Currently sitting very pretty on my Zara wishlist 👀 1 Satin Shirt 2 Headpiece 3 Halter Top 4 Ruffled Top 5 Belt Skirt 6 Stripe Top 7 Midi Skirt 8 Leopard skirt 9 Linen Top

Headed to opening night of @vintagewithlovesa rails and rails of beautiful pre-loved pieces, all donated and given a second life, with proceeds going towards children’s literacy. Sustainable shopping + treasure hunting + gals night out = my kind of evening🥂 Found some GEMS. Can’t wait to show you.

Visited the new Mantra Living store and it’s SO gorgeous, highly recommend a browse. Every detail is so considered, and the collection beautifully curated. Well done Liv. ✨

Might have found the perfect travel outfit, trousers are H&M so so comfy, jersey is old from Poetry , T-shirt is COS and shoes are Leluya.

xo,

Jess

We booked at Babel, Babylonstoren and, honestly, it’s always such a special experience. The food, the service, the views, all unreal. We got married there so going back always feels extra special.

I found a few little treasures, including this toucan clip (my fave bird ever haha) from Easy Breezy. They have such gorgeous, interesting pieces and it all feels so refreshingly different.

The French Corner Franschhoek had some beautiful pieces too. I picked up a set from Piti Cuiti, an Ibiza-based brand, interestingly enough! A very happy little find.

Explored La Motte which came highly recommended by a friend (thanks Ems!) and the farm store is elite!

I found these gorgeous tie-up trousers from Lamu Collection, made in Paarl using fabric imported from Kenya (although Indian cotton). They also had such lovely shoes and dresses, definitely worth a browse. I tried the trousers on over my jeans. 😂

xo,

Jess

The Comfort Department

A few of the essentials that truly bring me so much comfort when travelling:

My Slip eye mask. If I have any hope of sleeping, this is coming with me. There are loads of alternatives to this, but this one is my top pick as it’s pure silk and the eye hold gaps (lol) are so comfy. The ultimate luxury when you’re in the trenches of a long haul.

A giant black cotton scarf. Possibly my most underrated travel essential. It can be a scarf, blanket, pillow, wrap, emergency layer… she is multi-talented. ✨

Hand sanitiser + sanitising wipes. Plane tray table? She’s getting a wipe.

A magazine. I still LOVE buying an actual magazine for a flight. It’s perfect for those awkward in-between bits where you don’t want to start a movie or stare at another screen.

Rhode Peptide Lip Treatment. It really is worth the hype, it stays on for ages, which I LOVE on a long-haul flight (or anytime) because I don’t want to be reapplying lip balm every 12 minutes. My lips stay hydrated, glossy and happy.

Diptyque travel perfume. Because smelling lovely after several hours on a plane is one of life’s small victories. This set I linked comes with a cute little travel bag too!

AirPods or proper headphones. Preferably both if it’s a long flight because I apparently like to prepare for every technological eventuality.

All the charger cables. In their own little bag because nothing sends me over the edge faster than rummaging through a hand luggage bag for a cable.

Read more

I have some absolute GEMS waiting for you this week… EEEEEP.

While we’re in that funny in-between-season phase where getting dressed feels like a daily game of what on earth is the weather doing? Not quite winter, definitely not spring… I’ve rounded up a few finds that are perfect for navigating the wardrobe limbo.

Spent the loveliest day out and about in Stellenbosch for Women’s Day on Monday (shoutout Alex✨ ), and I filmed my first ever vlog while I was there… weeeee 🎥 TBC!!!

Naturally, I also found some very cute things, including this cardigan that I have not stopped thinking about since. Did I buy it? No. Do I now deeply regret that decision? Yes.

It’s cashmere with the sweetest neon detailing around the neckline and sleeves, very Gussy & Lou vibes, which I LOVE. I can’t seem to find this exact one online, but it was from Love That if you fancy doing a little treasure hunt of your own.

If you’re getting married, this is the cutest little clutch! I very nearly bought it myself because… I’m a Mrs, so technically it still applies? Haha.

Holiday Boutique are a vibe, such joyful, fun collections, definitely worth a browse!

I really like this entire look I spotted from Poetry recently. The top is fun and looks super flattering if you’re after something that gently skims over the midsection, and these shoes are so good, I couldn’t find them online (they’re adidas) but these Coolway sneaks are great, they’ve been on my wishlist for a while.

The bag adds a little bit of interest (linking a similar one here), the trousers are a nice mix of classic that pull the whole look together. 10/10 from me! 👏🏻✨

There are so many gorgeous sun-shaped necklaces around at the moment and I just love how joyful they are, such a fun little statement to add to any Spring/Summer(ish) outfit. ☀️

Can you tell I am ready for Spring?! I have a dangerously long wishlist from Agapée… I mean, how gorgeous?!

Also love these pieces from Jane Valken.

Me&B have just brought out the most gorgeous Moroccan inspired collection and I am obsessed. It’s also giving me major Gabriela Hearst / Andy in The Devil Wears Prada 2 Hamptons vibes, so chic and fun!

The whole campaign was shot so beautifully and I love the way every piece was styled. A big well done to all the clever peeps who made it happen, I know how much work goes into bringing something like this to life. Go have a little look at the collection, it’s gorgeous! ✨

Until next week!

xo,

Jess

First up are these fun jeans. 🤸🏻‍♀️ I love that they work just as well in Winter as they do styled up for Summer. Even better, they’re on sale right now and an absolute steal. Shop them here. A few other options here: yellow stripe, brown stripe, pink stripe

Next up is this costume I found at Colour Box, don’t mind me dreaming of Summer. She is definitely a pretty penny, but she is reversible, so technically you’re getting two in one… girl math. If you’re happy to splurge on a really good full piece, Maaji is known for its quality, so it’s definitely one worth considering. Shop here.

Other options I’m loving: Mango Polkadot, Seafolly B&W

I bought these Ranunculus from Adene’s Flowers and have had them dotted all over the house. 🌸 The way they fall so organically is sooo beautiful, and I’m seriously impressed by how long they’ve lasted, almost two weeks now and still going strong.

On a comfort food note, I’ve made this recipe a few times over these very cold days we’ve been having and it absolutely SLAPS. I swapped the gypsy oil for Woolies chilli crunch and used noodles instead of dumplings, and honestly… so good.

Full reel here

Lastly, I spent the morning at Pajamas + Jam and it was honestly the cosiest, loveliest little work spot. Super friendly staff, impeccable food and such a good vibe. Highly recommend popping in if you’re ever in the area.

xo,

Jess

A really good pair of jeans:

For me, that’s a high or mid-rise straight leg. They’re timeless, easy to style, and somehow make everything else in your wardrobe look more expensive if worn well. They work with a simple white tee, an oversized knit, a crisp shirt, ballet flats, trainers or heels.

When it comes to colour, I’d look for dark denim or charcoal. They feel polished, don’t date, and go with just about everything you’ll build your wardrobe around.

“What about leopard print?”

I’m so glad you asked.

I genuinely consider leopard print a neutral. A leopard jean (or even a leopard trouser) has become one of those pieces that works with far more than you’d expect.

The goal isn’t to own the most jeans. It’s to own the pair you reach for without thinking.

Build from there, and the rest of your wardrobe becomes so much easier.

(let me know if you’d like me to find options in your location)

Entry level: H&M

Investment: Calvin Klein, Levi’s

Splurge: Citizens of Humanity , Anine Bing

Fun splurge: Ganni (as worn above)

Highly recommend tailoring, a slight adjustment goes a long way!

📹 watch full reel here

Stay tuned for part 3.

xo,

Jess

Core layers are exactly that: your tank tops and your t-shirts. Simple, yes. But foundational? Completely.

Because the truth is, when these are right, everything else falls into place.

The Tank Top

A good tank is one of the most underrated items in a wardrobe. It’s the piece you throw on under a shirt, under a knit, under a blazer, but also the one that can stand entirely on its own.

For me, the perfect tank sits close to the body without clinging. It holds its shape. The neckline matters more than you think, too high and it can feel restrictive, too low and it loses that effortless polish. Somewhere in between is where the magic is.

I always come back to a few key colours:

• A soft white or cream

• A true black

• A neutral to your skintone

These are the ones that work hardest. The ones that layer seamlessly, that tone with everything, that never feel out of place.

And fabric is everything! Cotton with a bit of weight, or a rib that keeps its structure. You want it to feel like it belongs in your wardrobe for years, not just a season.

The T-Shirt

If the tank is the base, the t-shirt is the anchor.

A really good t-shirt can carry an entire outfit. Jeans and a tee shouldn’t feel like an afterthought, it should feel intentional, considered, effortless in the best way.

Fit is personal here. Some of us love a slightly boxy shape. Others prefer something more fitted and feminine. There’s no right answer, only what feels like you.

But there are a few things I always look for:

• A neckline that frames the face well (crew or slight scoop)

• Sleeves that hit just right (not too tight, not too long)

• A fabric that has substance ideally 100% cotton

Again, I build around a small, reliable palette:
White and black… and then maybe one or two soft tones that work with your wardrobe (a washed navy, a stripe, a gentle beige).

Why This Matters

It might feel like the least exciting place to start, but it’s actually the most transformative. Get your foundations right first.

When your core layers are right:

• Getting dressed becomes easier

• Outfits feel more cohesive

• You stop overthinking what to wear

These pieces hold everything else together. They’re the reason your favourite blazer looks chic, your linen trousers feel relaxed but polished, your denim feels elevated.

So before anything else, before the “dream blouse,” before the seasonal trends, start here.

Tank Top: White tank, strappy white tank, dusty pink with lace, Bamboo tank, lace trim

T-shirt: Cos Tee, JA Tee, Black V neck, Basic Tee

Build your foundations well, and your wardrobe will thank you for it.

📹 watch full reel here

Stay tuned for part 2.

xo,

Jess

I’m so excited to be leaning into something I truly love. I don’t have it all figured out just yet, but I do know one thing for certain: it’s rooted in fashion. Ever since I was little, I’ve dreamed of doing something in this space, and at the heart of it is my love for helping people feel good. I’m exploring a few ideas and I’ll be sure to share more soon (not exactly breaking news… but still exciting, haha). Whether you’re interested or just along for the ride, I hope it inspires you in some way. 🤍 More context coming soon!

Now, onto a few favourite finds…

I was in London during a heatwave (honestly, the heat there is next level, aircons literally sell out, it blows my mind… pun intended 😅). But in between melting, I found some gems.

First up: my new favourite dress from Ganni (on sale!) I’m obsessed with the silhouette and the cut-out back. And of course, it pairs perfectly with the boat shoes because really, what doesn’t?

Next up: Lazy Oaf, a sustainable brand known for their limited-edition runs. I love how unique their pieces are. There’s something special about owning something only a handful of people in the world will have.

Anyone who knows me knows I love a good pair of pyjamas. I mean, we spend half our lives in them, so we may as well invest, right?! This fun brand has been around for a while, but the small business cheerleader in me is so proud to see them on the high street now, in Selfridges (wow, made it!) and other retailers. Shoutout to the gals behind the brand! Go share some kind words with them on it’s 9am

Lastly, I know I have spoken about the blouse before (the dream blouse), but I finally got it, and it’s bringing me so much joy. I even documented the process.🤓 I’m going to do a little cost-per-wear moment and style it in all sorts of ways… will share on the gram.

I’m excited to share more from the rest of our trip (we also went to Greece) plus a little “what to wear to a wedding” edit coming in hot. Keep an eye out, coming very soon.

xo, Jess

Today I wanted to share a bit about our “uniform”, investing in beautifully cut pieces made from breathable, high-quality fabrics that actually suit our body proportions (more on this soon 👀).

First up, I always find myself reaching for my trusty neutrals, they’re what I feel most comfortable in. Not to say I don’t love colour and print (I really do!), but neutrals are my go-to, especially when I’m feeling a little uninspired.

So, starting strong with this boho blouse I’ve mentioned before. I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect white blouses and have found some absolute GOLD, you can thank me later.

Broderie anglaise blouse

Dream blouse - investment piece

Embroidered boho blouse

Top tip: look for 100% cotton or a beautiful natural blend… no synthetics here ✨

Excuse the makeshift bedroom setup, currently in the middle of a little refresh. Stay tuned…

Dark charcoal jeans are always a win, they go with just about everything and are a true wardrobe staple for me. The same goes for a classic dark blue denim, a must-have that pairs effortlessly with anything. Levi’s have some great options at a really good price point, too.

More on the “uniform”, these silky trousers with an elasticated waist paired with a black jumper are just so good (and so comfortable). I genuinely wish I bought five pairs… that’s how often I wear them haha!

I bought mine ages ago but found some here.

In other news, I’m trying out the beloved curtain bang trend, wish me luck! Definitely haven’t perfected them yet, but I’m on the journey… anyone want to join?

I saw Ambar Driscoll also joined the club recently, enjoyed these tips, if only all our hairdressers could come home with us.

Finally took my new jacket out for a spin and it brought me so much joy and compliments! Found some other options here and wanted to share this brand called Velvet Mandarin, just launched in Hong Kong, they do custom orders and I just love all the options.

Last but definitely not least, I’ve featured this brand so much, but this piece is just too good not to share. A lovely gift from a dear friend… and I’ll leave you with that. ✨

xo, Jess

Wearing my favourite new trench from Sézane, it’s a classic and I know I will love it for years to come.

Righto, onto this week’s favourite finds, a few summer bits for those sneaking off somewhere sunny, or for my northern hemisphere Jammers soaking up the heat. First up, this top from Zara, seeing the traditional mandarin collar making a comeback, which I love. And then this white blouse… the cut is just chef’s kiss. Some cute finds for Summer.

Never Fully Dressed just get so much right. How beautiful is this skirt? Their co-ords and skirts are always so good. I love this one, and the fact that you can wear it all year round makes it even better. Madison Boutique stock some of the brand if you don’t want the customs hassle.

I’ve been living in athleisure lately, getting in my daily movement and then feeling far too lazy to change… can you relate? Might as well make it cute and make it count right?

Wearing my trusty Topshop jacket that goes with everything, Poetry have a very similar one at the moment. Also really impressed with Burnt tights; they fit really well and the quality is so good, worth the hype!

And some inspiration for the week…

Here’s your sign (and mine) to do the thing.

Why do we hold ourselves back waiting for it to be perfect? Most ideas never leave our heads because we’re too busy trying to get them “just right.”

Start anyway. It won’t be perfect, and it doesn’t need to be.

xo, Jess

Hope you’ve had a lovely weekend. We were treated to the most glorious weather here in Cape Town, it almost felt like summer. Most of the weekend was spent outdoors, soaking up the sunshine, with a little exploring and antiquing in the mix.

Wearing my new favourite cargo-inspired trousers (cargo-esque? Surely that's a word). They are unbelievably comfortable. I paired them with my little boat shoes, which continue to be the gift that keeps on giving, and a white boho blouse to soften the look and bring a touch of femininity to the outfit. Here are some similar options to shop: cargo pants, blouse, shoes

I do love a good face mask. It feels like the ultimate TLC when you need it most. I've tried Biodance before and highly recommend it (hello glass skin), and recently picked up the Medicube one along with a few Garnier sheet masks to test out too. I love a mask that leaves your skin feeling so fresh and glowy, and there’s just something about taking 20 minutes to sit with a face mask on that makes you feel like you've got your life together.

How fabulous are these feather trousers from Me&B? I absolutely adore them. They’re playful, a little bit dramatic, and guaranteed to make any outfit more fun. The length is spot on too.

Currently on the hunt for the perfect butter dish. I spotted the one Matilda B has (completely obsessed with her house, by the way) and have a sneaky suspicion she might be bringing one out soon. In the meantime, I found this one and think it’s rather cute. Anyway, if anyone has any more butter dish recommendations, please let me know.

That’s all from me this week. Here’s to finding beauty in the everyday, dressing up for no big reason, and collecting little joys along the way.

See you next week.

xo, Jess

It’s been a week of highs and lows on my side, lots of learning curves, tough things to push through, but also so many silver linings and exciting things to look forward to. I’m learning that both can exist at the same time.

How was your week? Tell me your highs and lows, I’d genuinely love to hear.

Ok, first up is this OH MY GOSH I CANNOT BELIEVE THIS EXISTS kind of jacket. Truly. An absolute gem.

I love that it’s so loud, fun and full of personality, I already know I’m going to wear it with so many things in my wardrobe. I bought the reddish one above, but they also had a black version with more of a mandarin collar that I am equally obsessed with too.

You can shop them in-store at Jane Valken, but I also found some similar pieces on Etsy

Next up, I have been on the hunt for dungarees that feel classic but still cool. Very 90s, very effortless, very “I just threw this on” energy. I’m very chuffed to have finally found a pair at Levi’s.

They were off-shelf so I had to do a bit of asking around, but honestly I reckon the best ones are probably second hand on places like Vinted or Yaga.

Can’t wait to style them with a billowy cotton blouse, a simple tee and neck scarf, or just a plain tank. Eeeeep… endless possibilities.

On another note, I am unhappy to report that my recent slipper find (see Weekly Jams #02) was unfortunately a fail. They delivered the wrong pair, there was no embroidery, and they genuinely looked like two sad furry rodents. 😂🐭

I was especially excited to support them because they’re a small business, so it was a bit disappointing. I did write to them explaining the mix-up, but sadly they’d run out of stock of the original pair.

So alas, the search for the perfect (and cute) slippers continues. Stay tuned.

On the home front, I saw this clever tissue ‘box’ trick with a vintage vase and I really like the concept as tissue boxes are usually quite ugly, have a look here.

I’m looking for fabric to recover our main bedroom headboard (currently grey) and I cannot find the fabric in any local stores. Which means… I’m just going to have to bite the bullet and order it online.

A tragic case of delayed gratification. Patience is a virtue after all.

Wearing my trusty black cashmere that I absolutely live in during winter. It’s one of those pieces that instantly makes me feel good when I put it on. I sized up because they always shrink somehow.

Paired with my charcoal Levi’s and M&S loafers I bought a few years back, all classics that I know will stay in my wardrobe for years to come. Also my default outfit formula for when I don’t quite have the headspace to get creative with getting dressed.

xo,

Jess

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about perspective, and how changing the way we look at just one thing can completely shift our mindset.

The other day I found myself in a bit of a hole about my business, all the ideas I have, all the things I want to do, and all the things I just… haven’t done yet. Mostly because of commitments, overwhelm, and honestly, a lack of drive at times.

But then I caught myself and realised how lucky I am to even have the ideas in the first place. And suddenly, instead of feeling behind, I felt excited again. Excited by the possibility of pursuing something new.

How many ideas do we all have that never happen? Maybe it just takes one small thing to get the ball rolling.

Anyway, onto this week’s favourite finds…

Chommies just launched the ultimate beach bag and it’s limited edition. Not exactly the right season for it right now, but WOW. I already know I need one for summer. It’s literally perfect.

Luna Intimates have the cutest (and honestly v pretty) lingerie sets. How fun is this print?

I truly believe starting your outfit with nice underwear changes how you feel for the entire day. Do I wear matching sets every day? Absolutely not (I wish haha), but that opening scene in The Devil Wears Prada will forever be my getting-dressed goals, that doesn’t include… Andy. 😂

Recently spent the day at Babylonstoren and honestly… it felt like a little treat sent from above.

It was one of those glorious sunny Autumn days (which, let’s be honest, in South Africa basically means Winter because we truly only have two seasons 😂). The food was as fresh and delicious as ever, the atmosphere so wholesome, and every shop impossible not to browse for far too long.

And of course, the fresh produce and magnificent gardens completely steal the show every single time.

I left with quite the haul, including the most gorgeous roses that smelt so heavenly I genuinely stopped to smell the roses all week long. I am a huge candle lover, and I couldn’t resist this one. The ‘jar’ is so pretty too and will definitely re-use it for something after.

So, here’s your sign to visit… in case you needed one.

xo,

Jess

Right, what do we think of VB’s collection with the GAP? I am a huge fan of hers, and love this pivot, it’s extremely brave! I haven’t seen the collection IRL yet but it looks really good. I’d love to hear what you think of it! See more here

6 days to go until Devil Wears Prada 2 comes out and I am too excited for words, also nervous! The UK premier looked unreal, I loved Stanley Tucci’s little snippet and quote here. “As Nigel would say ‘People will stare. Make it worth their while.’”.

And finally, my beautiful friend India illustrates! DM her for orders. My favourite is the cowboy one.

xo,

Jess

I’ve been travelling a little and have discovered so many wonderful things to share with you. I’ll work my way through them all and put together a bigger post soon, but for now, here are my top four from this week…

Had the most unreal blowdry of my life, it lasted almost a week! Go to Victoria at Elana Von in Chelsea. I booked it through Treatwell, they always have great discounts and vouchers on there!

I’m loving this fresh take on the ‘boat shoes’ trend. I picked up a pair in olive green from M&S (see below). Shea McGee’s style is just so good, effortless and cool. I love how she’s styled them here:

Shop them at M&S here, Poetry has a great version here

Found the cutest little French boutique in Notting Hill called Appletree, such a great selection and the prices are very reasonable. I picked up this very cute denim shirt with heart embroidery… can’t wait to style it.

The new tashas home collection is about to take all my money, can we please have a moment of applause. 👏 Go follow here

xo,

Jess

Freshly showered, skincare routine done, PJ’s on and slippers ready - can’t quite get a much better than that feeling! I have been on the hunt for some cute slippers and finally found a brand that makes such gorgeous options called Onaie. I’ve ordered them and they’re waiting for me at my dear friend’s house in London. Will report back.

Spent the week in the beautiful Zermatt, I want to do a full round up of everything. There’s no place like it. My mind is totally blown and I hope to make it back again.

I got so much wear out of my cashmere jumper from Uniqlo. I actually sized down three sizes (mine always seem to shrink), but I was going for that relaxed, easy fit.And I have to say… it feels incredibly luxe for the price, one of those pieces you just keep reaching for.

Until next week! 😘

xo,

Jess

It can be simple, joyful, it can just be things that you love.

And I’ll be here every week, sharing the things that I love that I hope will inspire you too. ✨

I have been looking for a tray like this one from Addison Ross forever but 1 cannot justify the hefty price tag and 2 they’re not available in South Africa buuuut this week I came across an amazing alt version. Yay! How gorgeous is this one from House of Harhaz? You’re welcome.

My go to outfit at the moment is my JA Collection tee - I mean, it’s basically a wearable, walking complement! These leopard print jeans were a recent investment and I’ll be forever obsessed. Will link some options if you’re not ready to invest. Finally, a brand that is the gift that keeps on giving, Leluya with the colourful pumps.

JA Tee

Jeans: Ganni (investment); Zara, Levi’s

Leluya Pumps

Another obsession this week is Millie’s outfit with the satin shorts… Pause for dramatic effect. How freaking good is this outfit? Ticks all the boxes for me. Here’s where to shop it:

Cardigan: Mohair Mango Cardigan

Satin Shorts: Zara

Shoes: Leluya Mary-Jane pumps

My triple threat haha! I find myself doing my make up on the go most often. My favourites are these 3 atm:

1. Bobbi Brown Powder Bronzer

2. Bobbi Brown Eye Brow Brush and Blend

3. Benefit Eyebrow Gel

Tell me some of your faves!

xo,

Jess

Read more

Basically: it’s the ultimate haul for anyone who likes their wardrobe playful, quirky, and full of joy.

1 heart necklace, 2 lemon vest, 3 skirt, 4 pink golas, 5 green bag, 6 sunnies

1 heart earrings, 2 heart bag, 3 dress, 4 HOFF leopard sneaks, 5 stripe cardigan

1 doris fish necklace, 2 heart sunnies, 3 graphic tee, 4. barrel floral jeans, 5 woven metallic bag, 6 mary janes

1 pearl earrings, 2.blouse, 3. marble white sunnies, 4 cream flower bag, 5 green golas, 6 skirt

XO,

Jess

But this year? I’m Cape Town bound, swapping centre court for the fireplace because it’s freezing and pouring outside. I’ll be living vicariously through all you lucky folks at Wimbledon, tennis on the telly, snacks in hand.

So, in the spirit of Wimbledon - whether you’re watching from your sofa, hosting a little watch party, or actually courtside - here’s a bit of inspiration to help you serve up your own Wimbledon vibes:

1. Ralph Lauren crew neck 2.bucket hat 3.espadrille slip ons 4.tennis dress 5.tortoiseshell sunglasses chain 6.Prada frames 7.bracelets 8.broderie anglaise dress 9.white linen blend waistcoat 10.white linen blend trousers 11.cap 12.clutch case with sunglasses holder 13.tennis skirt 14.teapot 15.Jimmy Fairly frames 16.scarf 17.adidas 72’s

Send your Wimbledon core - I’d love to see. 🎾

XO,

Jess