At the moment I am on holiday in a little town just outside of Cape Town called Plettenberg Bay. Out of season it can be extremely quiet, which is perfect. I’m staying in a family house above a large lagoon. It is so beautiful here. Wild green bushes and flowers surround the house. The air is fresh and crisp and you can hear birds singing all day. Because I’m on holiday I’ve been eating more than is normal and healthy. Every meal I stuff myself full with food; breakfast, lunch and supper. Today I felt like eating something light. So I turned to my trusty Flourless Chocolate Cake recipe. It’s gluten free and packed with ground almonds so you won’t miss the flour. The almonds are mixed into a mixture of eggs and melted dark chocolate. Baked in the oven, the almonds roast which add an extra nutty flavour to the cake. The sponge has a light and mousy texture. It is perfect served with a dusting of icing sugar and a dollop of ice cream.

Flourless Chocolate Cake

(gluten free)

Serves 15-20 people

Ingredients:

• 300g dark chocolate
• 300g butter
• 8 eggs
• 400g castor sugar
• 200g ground almonds
• 3 tbs cocoa powder
• icing sugar to dust over the top

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and grease a round 20cm baking tin.
2. In saucepan over a medium heat, melt the dark chocolate and butter. Stir so that the nothing burns. Once melted leave to cool.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and castor sugar until light and creamy. It takes about 2-4 minutes on a fast speed. Gently fold, using a spatula, in the almonds and cocoa powder.
4. Next fold the melted chocolate and butter into the egg mixture. Fold until all is combined.
5. Pour the mixture into your prepared baking tin and place in the oven. Leave to bake for 30-40 minutes. By that time the cake will have risen and become dark golden brown in colour. Test if it is cooked all the way through by poking it with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. Turn off the heat and leave to cool in the oven. You can open the oven door slightly. By doing it this way, the cake stays light.
6. Once the cake is completely cooled, remove from the cake tin. Place onto your serving dish and dust with castor sugar.

Serve plain or with ice cream.

This Article was written by Ben Orkin. Visit his blog or Instagram for more fantastic food.

The post How To Make The Perfect Flourless Chocolate Cake appeared first on Zanita.

I’m one of the few individuals who have a magically great friendship with a former (serious) boyfriend. Although most may assume the relationship ended under mutual terms or that respect for one another existed all along, I can certainly tell you, alongside those who’ve watched us over the years, the breakup was far from rainbows and butterflies. Luckily, we were able to put the misery behind us and proceed as friends – it’s been almost 10 years now, but that’s what seems to surprise everyone else most. I’m most appalled by the reactions of friends and family around us who gasp, sputter, and frown at our ability to communicate without feeling bitter and angry as well as our genuine happiness for one another. Even more unfathomable is the demands of the former’s significant other to cease all methods of interaction considering 10 years have passed.

My biggest confusion now is how a friendship between former partners defies all logic.

I realize it’s common nature to see old couples abruptly cut one another off – we see this in every day life from bloggers and former boyfriend photographers to celebrities and even friends around us, but why can’t they be friends? Without a doubt, there were moments of screaming in the streets, slamming doors, and cursing one another, but I’m sure there were equal moments of extreme bliss, overwhelming love, and sweet surrenders. For that reason, I’m not sure if I can truly believe two individuals who’ve been in a genuine relationship hate one another.

A friendship seems perfectly reasonable in my mind because at one point in time, they really did like (or love) one another and although it’s no longer that “I need you, can’t breathe without you” kind of love, it’s a free-feeling kind of happiness and certainly a unique, inexplicable bond.

And to be able to continue a friendship with someone who truly understands you, doesn’t judge you, and most importantly, lets you loose like a balloon making its way into the skies, is something special that not just anyone gets to experience.

If you’re able have that once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, jump at it and don’t just let it pass. And don’t be the current significant other that freaks out in jealousy because you don’t believe such friendships endure alongside extinct romance. Am I delirious? Sound off below.

XO,

Susan

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Image Source Credits – Visual Optimism, Vogue

The post Befriending an Ex – Yay or Nay? appeared first on Zanita.

Checking in from Amsterdam…

Because the weather sucks in Stockholm right now. Despite having travelled to a whole load of magical and wonderful places this year, I haven’t really had much of a holiday, so whilst Gustav and I have a job to shoot here, we also took the time for a little break.

We’ve been working our butts off this week – we really want the site to have at least two posts per day so taking every opportunity to make content is a must. It also means I’m trying to give as much of myself as possible and put alot more effort into my articles. I know some of you feel like the content here is a little confused – can I ask, is it easy for you to see the difference in my personal content vs contributor content? Statistically speaking, our contributors have been producing some of the most engaging content we’ve had – so it’s really about how it’s being presented that seems to be the problem.

Meanwhile, if you’re chasing my content only, there’s a link on the header bar for that – and you can find each of our contributors sole content in the contributor section, a page we’re hoping to develop further once our web designers get back from holidays in August!

So I’m headed to the movies this afternoon to see Jurassic Park with Rebecca – I love the cycling lifestyle here in Holland, feels like you can be anywhere in a heartbeat, it’s such an efficient way to travel. Years ago, I tried cycling everywhere in Sydney but the city is just too big, there’s so many hills and it’s also quite dangerous with the traffic, people aren’t very aware of cyclists. I still hope to live in Amsterdam one day! Such a gorgeous place – nothing compares – especially when the sun is shining.

Happy Sunday! xx

dress, And Other Stories

sandals, Zeus and Dione 

bag, Louis Vuitton

Get the Look…

The post Checking In: Amsterdam Edition appeared first on Zanita.

Damn it, it’s Monday.

As you might be able to tell from this playlist, I’m a bit of a contemplative kinda place – which I one of those things I love about music, how it can nurture certain emotions, mental escapism.

The last one in this list is actually my favourite, it’s just so beautiful, especially as the rhythm kicks in around the 40 second mark. I overheard it when Rebecca and I were perusing some cool homeware stores yesterday here in Amsterdam, I raced across the room and threw my arm skyward towards the speaker, ‘shazaaming’ in desperation hoping to catch the track before it finished.   That violin! It’s so dreamy.

Love to hear if you liked any of these tracks.

-Zanita x

The post Music To Save Your Monday appeared first on Zanita.

I’ve landed back in Stockholm after a weekend away in Amsterdam, back into work mode. Firstly here I just wanna thank everyone who gave me feedback about the site from the Amsterdam post, we are constantly working towards making the best site for you all – one of my biggest inspiration sources of inspiration, the drive to improve and innovate over the years has been the comments and support I get from all of you.

This post is a little overdue – but I really wanted to sit down and dedicate a good chunk of time to answering these questions fully, extra thanks to the ladies who asked them!

So here goes…  

What lens do you use when taking your shots usually? I have a 50mm but am struggling to get myself fully in focus while still achieving good bokeh. What settings did you use for the photos above for example?  Anea Duratovic

I’m usually working with an 85mm 1.2 – and sometimes a 35mm 1.4 lens. The 85 is the lens that gives great bokeh and it’s the one I used in the post mentioned (bokeh is the dreamy blurred background effect). I feel like the 50mm could work in a similar way – but you would want to be using quite a low f-stop, probably below a 4 – and have your subject with alot of empty space behind them, quite a good distance from the background.  I can’t remember the exact settings I had on my camera for that shot but to guess I’d say it was about F-stop 4 – shutter speed 1/1000 – ISO 100. It was pretty sunny on this day so maybe the shutter speed was even higher… Anyway, I’d advise you experiment with getting the f-stop as low as possible without compromising the depth of focus in your image. If you’re shooting up close then you won’t have as much flexibility but further away shouldn’t be so bad. I know some bloggers who keep their settings on F1.8 and still seem to produce clear images!  Sounds obvious, but the more you use your camera the better you’ll understand the functions so get snapping

My question for you is how you gained so much traction. The key to being able to blog for a living is having a very strong readership; beyond being able to cultivate great content, gaining exposure can be a big difficulty for someone just starting out. Your content is fantastic; how did you get it in front of so many people? How did you expose yourself to a great number of readers in spite of all the competition? Stephanie

I wish there was a black and white answer I could give for this one! I initially started gaining traction from just participating in the community of blogging – so through making friends and exchanging links on sidebars. Upstart bloggers don’t seem to have this on their sidebars anymore… but used to work so well! I also was an active Chictopia and Lookbook.nu user – but I can’t really vouch for their efficiency today.  A lot of bloggers seem to post all over the place, leaving their links in comment sections – but I think instead of gunning for the most popular bloggers, aim for those with similar reach as yourself and connect, collaborate and share. Building together is always a good idea.

I don’t really believe there is any true catalyst for success either, it’s really about a long race. Even if you score a feature on one of the biggest sites out there, like Refinery29 or WhoWhatWear, that success will be short lived. The key to captivating an audience is regular, great content and being patient with steady growth.

Social media is one of the keys for driving new traffic, so finding a niche within that is essential. No one can really tell you how to create a voice that’s uniquely yours… I guess this article is how I can express it best.

Though it might sound a little depressing to those starting out – getting your content exposure takes time and hard work. You need to be very interesting to maintain an audience – and you need to be proactive to find that audience. The key is to just get started and don’t continue to persevere for too long on an idea if it isn’t working.

How do you blog and travel? Can you share some of your tips for capturing moments while living in the moment? Alexandra Puffer 

It can be pretty challenging to live in the moment, trying to blog while travelling. I don’t think I’m particularly talented at taking the right opportunities to get content… though I have some friends who, particularly Jess (@tuulavintage) and Nicole (@garypeppergirl) who both do a killer job of capturing a location through their instagram accounts.  I guess a big part of it is having some equipment  you’re willing to carry around with you. I find it really stressful to carry a photo kit worth 5k around with me on touristic excursions – but my phone is much simpler (and better for security).

I guess it’s really about being aware – so whenever you think ‘Oh wow, isn’t that beautiful?’ you’re ready to take a snap and share that memory. I think it takes quite a bit of practise and tenacity to create good content, you really need to think of work when you’re travelling to collect a really beautiful story. It’s alot easier if you’re passionate and excited about it – so considering the rewards of sharing is a great motivator.

My question for you will be what advice and tips will you give someone who is thinking to take their blog to a full time job? –Adeola Naomi Aderemi 

Heading into blogging full-time can be pretty scary, taking that leap is the hardest part. For myself and most of the girls I know, it simply was that blogging became too much work to continue working in another field, so financial security was pretty much guaranteed by the time they took the leap. I’d absolutely recommend you wait until you get to this point before setting out, because the money can fluctuate throughout the course of the year and you don’t want to be left in the lurch.

Throughout the earlier stages of my blogging career, I really just used my site as an outlet and a source of fun. When you’re going full-time and investing in a future – suddenly ‘fun’ isn’t so much a factor when it comes to work criteria. I’m working long days and constantly having to press myself further and further to come up with original and engaging articles. If you were responsible for a newspaper, do you think the readers would be so forgiving if you suddenly only produced a few pages of content? The same is true with blogs – don’t deliver and eventually people won’t return. A full-time blog is a hungry beast – but it’s also a very wonderful beast that will take you on magical adventures if you feed it well.

You also need to have a pretty clear mission statement that you can utilise when it comes to taking on clients, so you can stay true to your brand. While early on, promoting “Susie’s Slim Fast Diet Miracle Tea” might seem like a good way to monetise, consider whether this client will help support you to the long term goal, a beautiful blog you can be proud of. There’s going to be compromises early on – but there’s always ways to make things work for you. Just be really clear on your brand values so that you can still reach that long term goal, without alienating your audience before you get there.

How to get yourself out there and eventually get gigs especially when you live in a city that works with nepotism and will not embrace a girl of color? – Adeola Naomi Aderemi 

I guess this is a challenging question for me because I’ve never been to Greece, so I couldn’t fully comprehend what it’s like facing the challenges you’re experiencing. My advice would be, look to those who really standing out from the crowd, whether it be in sports or music or any kind of field – and take your queues from those people. Never underestimate the value of role models – there’s some incredible women of colour throughout history who’ve been real game changers and we can all learn so much from them.  Be confident in who you are and what you’re representing  – and be positive because good energy will always appeal to clients and readers better than negative.

One of the best parts of being a fashion blogger is your ability to connect with audiences around the entire world – which also means, you can connect with clients around the world. I know it would be wonderful to work with the Greek clients at home – other clients in Europe are also right on your doorstep and only an email away.  Be as proactive as you possibly can and send emails constantly introducing yourself. It could even be as simple as offering to do some instagram takeovers for upcoming brands, when you start out you need to give some to get it back.

I’m sorry I couldn’t help more on this front! If anyone else reading this has further advice for Adeola I’d (we!) love to hear it.

How did you first start? How did you get people to take pictures of you? Did you first start with friends and what about now? Do you have to pay a photographer? Anna

I started small, like most bloggers, with no ambitions to make a career or to go full time. I was taking self portrait photos with a tiny point and shoot camera, which would snap one image at a time. I had a long way to go! Later I had just anyone take my images, whoever was around. I would set up the shot and they would act under my instruction – and thats what I’m doing till this day with my outfit photos. Gustav is taking most of them now – but I have paid  a photographer a few times with working on advertorials. I don’t really invest lots of time into my outfit photos because I’m still quite uncomfortable about bossing someone around to get the right shot.

I really want to get into the business of fashion and blogging how do you suggest to start and what is the key to being successful in what you do? Jess

There’s no such thing as overnight success – it’s going to be hard work. It’s taken me seven years to get to this point! I’ve evolved and learnt as I’ve gone along, really through trial and error more than anything else. Thankfully these days – there’s plenty of examples of what to do and what not to do. You have to have a clear idea what your blog is about, you have to develop your skills to the point where you’re professionally competitive and you have to learn how to captivate an audience with that skill set. I guess this question doesn’t really have a simple answer because there’s so many methods to create a great blog, and so much of that is really learning what your talents are and using them to maximise engagement.

Gustav and I are actually working on a course right now, detailing everything we know about creating success in the business… there’s simply too much to put into this post right here!

Thanks so much for all your questions xx

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The post Answering Your Questions About Blogging and Business appeared first on Zanita.

Window shopping for a dream look… I haven’t had time to be doing a whole load of research lately for on what’s on trend. It’s important as a Fashion Blogger to at least know whats current! Either way, I’m feeling the Mod vibes right now. I think it’ll match well with my hair cut.

Always have fun making these collages! Happy Tuesday to all of you x

Preen by Thornton Bregazzi Skirt

Steve J and Yoni P Denim Jacket

Larsson and Jennings Gold Watch

Vetements Antwerpen Tshirt

Melissa Joy Manning Pearl Earrings

Mark Cross Leather Bag

Tod’s Chelsea Boot

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Also – follow me on snapchat! I’m – zanitazanita 

The post Piecing Together The Perfect Mod Inspired Look appeared first on Zanita.

I’ve never really considered my ability to do my own hair a strong point – until now!

It’s really just a matter of understanding products and hair type. I’m quite lucky in that a little bit of product can really make a great difference to the volume and texture of my hair. I’ve been working with Schwarzkopf, as part of their Hair Happiness Campaign – which is about taking control of bad hair days and knowing how to find what products work for you. I’ve learnt so much! Including this below tutorial, where I used just three products to more than double the volume of my hair in a few minutes.

You’ll need:

Schwarzkopf Essence Ultime Root Lift Lotion

Schwarzkopf Essence Ultime Shine and Heat Protection Spray

Schwarzkopf Dry Shampoo

Step 1. Begin with brushed, clean and dry hair.

Step 2. Apply a small amount of the Root Lift Lotion to your hand and massage into the roots of your hair using your finger tips. Apply sparingly and add more if you think you need it. The hair shouldn’t feel weighed down by the product, but you want to spread enough around to cover your entire head.

Step 3. Blast with a medium warm hair dryer all over, using your fingers to flip your hair around and lift at the roots.

Step 4. Spray with Heat Protection Spray on the ends only, and straighten from midway down. Use a wide toothed comb to separate pieces and straighten.

Step 5. Spray more dry shampoo to the roots and use your fingers to brush it through. Voila! Your hair has new life.

After I styled my hair using this method, Gustav and I headed directly out to the sand dunes in Esperance to shoot this editorial. Been waiting so long to share this with you all! Hope you like the results.

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Also – follow me on snapchat! I’m – zanitazanita

Visit the Schwarzkopf Style Studio for loads of hair styling help that’s right for you!

The post Smooth Volume Hair Tutorial appeared first on Zanita.

It might sound a little strange, but I find dressing for summer so much more complicated than for winter.

It’s supposed to be easier, fewer pieces… but I just can never seen to catch my groove for warm weather dressing – that is – until I’m wearing a truly eye catching and original print.

Winter is really a game of mix and match, it’s so fun and you can change the way you express your style through mixing various elements in your wardrobe. If you’re really skilled, you can pick out tones and styles season to season that mean the whole blending process works really well.

This process doesn’t work for warmer weather, which is why I stock up on printed shirts and dresses, keeping it easy and still packing a punch. I love to dress with spirit, wearing clothes that make me smile – and this dress from And Other Stories, with it’s very unique print does exactly that.

Prints for everyone! Once you embrace prints, you can use them to create real character for your personal style. Fashion should always be fun.

Happy Hump Day to all of you! xx

Dress, And Other Stories

Sandals, Tibi

bag, Louis Vuitton

Get the Look…

The post Here’s Why Prints Should Be Your Summer Go To Look appeared first on Zanita.

This day is finally here!

I’m so thrilled to finally have the chance to share with you this video – a collaboration Chloe Morello!

I know I’ve already mentioned to you many times, I’m loving so much making these youtube videos. Chloe edited these videos – but the rest have been edited by myself and Gustav, and I know we have a little way to go – but the whole journey is the best part of the experience.

Below is one of the photographs I snapped from our first collaboration, which was featured on Fashion Bloggers episode 2 (I think)  and now you can catch the behind the scenes of these two videos on tonights episode!

It’s airing on E! at 9.30 pm – but never fear if you’re Down Under you catch watch episodes a week after they air on E Online. I can’t give you the link because i’m getting redirected to the UK site – but check it out on Harper and Harley.

The post The Make-Up Challenge Disaster with Chloe Morello appeared first on Zanita.

Happy Thursday to all of you!

I’m having a great day today – I finally got to chance to publish my long awaited Youtube collaboration with Chloe Morello and Gustav and I also went shopping, bought some new plants. It’s amazing how much difference a few plants can make to the feeling in the room – and also to you health! Nature’s air filters.

I’m looking forward to the next two weeks of life in Sweden, we are settling into a new home and all the finishing touches. I don’t really have any desire to travel, I’m a homebody! Working from the office and commuting, each day, going to the gym. I’m thriving on routine, something I’ve thoroughly lacked over the last six months. Most of all, I’m really enjoying writing and sharing with all of you, it’s so satisfying. It’s been quite a long seven years and my passion for working and this space has ebbed and flowed – right now we are all flow! So thankyou again to all of you for the support – I guess it might be annoying when bloggers are constantly like “emmmrrryggurdd thanx u guyzzz!” but for real. It’s the reason why my life is great and what makes me want to strive to do better.

So here’s some snaps of me in a pretty intense/fun looking suede coat, I wore for MBFWA all the way back in April. These pics were snapped by Adam Katz Sinding of Le21eme for H&M life. You can check out my interview for them HERE.

bag, Karen Walker x Benah

coat, Karen Walker

skirt, Witchery

sneakers, Senso

watch, Michael Kors

The post Looking Casual In Orange Suede appeared first on Zanita.

The Indigo Mid-Rise Cropped Jean

Why it’s perfect?

This jean goes from day to night, can be worn casually with sneakers and then work with heel for dinner and party times. The dark hue is the perfect cheat, cos these babies set you back less than 70 bucks, but look like they cost more. The style is totally on trend – but versatile with a variety of shirt lengths. I like this with a preppy, boxy shirt and a sweet loafer… then later with a cute heel and sassy top.

Wear it with…

The Little Black Dress

Why it’s perfect?

This dress isn’t only perfect because its from And Other Stories #myfavestore – it’s a got a sweetheart neckline which works with or sans boobies. You can also still look sexy/cute and wear a bra with dress and granny knickers cos it’s got an a-line skirt. Much of a win! …Unless you’re located somewhere where you can’t purchase from AOS, in which case THIS and THIS have similarly positive attributes. I like an LBD that you can also wear with a good white sneaker and sassed up with a vibrant heel. Can work with trench or denim jacket.

Wear it with…

The Utility Jacket

Why it’s perfect?

Lately I’ve wanted everything in my wardrobe to be this particular colour of military khaki/green – somehow it’s useful as a kind of neutral tone, in the same way as maybe denim or camel. A utility jacket is a wardrobe staple because not only can you pair it with your staples like white t-shirts and denim – but you can also rock it with delicate florals and even sequins! It just works! I also love the fabric these jackets tend to be made of, a kind of soft drill. They are easy to bring along on a warm day and throw on when the weather gets cooler. Can be styled with both pretty dresses or something a little more androgynous. So versatile!

Wear it with…

The White Sneaker

Why it’s perfect?

If someone told me I was obsessed with white sneakers, I wouldn’t really have a defence. I don’t think I’ve even worn them much in my outfit posts – but I absolutely love to style them in my editorials (I’ve got a bunch coming out soon that feature white sneaks!) and believe they are the most versatile shoe you can have in your wardrobe. I’d even pair them with maxi dresses and feminine long skirts… hell, even Nicole (aka Gary Pepper Girl) is a convert to the White Sneak Squad. You need a pair of white sneakers in your life! I just wish they didn’t get dirty so easily…

Wear it with…

The Neutral Handbag

I never really understood the merits of the neutral handbag until I bought myself a Chloe Drew in this light tan/khaki/latte tone. It seems to go with almost everything in my wardrobe! ESPECIALLY if I pair it back with gold accessories. Great news about this Marc by Marc Jacobs bag – It’s 60% off! The Net-a-porter sale is off the chain! Anyway – I neutral coloured handbag will take you a long way, especially if you’re like me and don’t really wear alot of black… I find black handbags only work if you’re wearing black somewhere else on your outfit… The neutral looks great with all colours! Party!

Wear it with…

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The post 5 Essential Pieces That Will Add Value To Your Wardrobe appeared first on Zanita.

If you’re the kind of person who burns your food, then this is the recipe for you. If you’re not that person then today you could taste the wild side…

Malva pudding is a traditional South African dessert, which originates from my home city, Cape Town. It is a sticky sponge pudding that contains apricot jam. It’s sort of like a sticky toffee pudding, but better, less sickly sweet with a slight tang from the apricot jam. Once the sponge is baked, a buttery sauce is poured all over making it sticky and soft. The trick is to burn the top, by doing this the sponge becomes dry and absorbs the sauce better, almost like when you make bread and butter pudding. It’s better to use stale bread so that the egg custard is soaked up.

Malva pudding was always my favourite dessert as a child, served with hot custard (check out my homemade custard recipe here). We would only eat it on special occasions, always shop bought, but as soon as I tried the real thing, I knew I would never buy it again.

This is my Auntie’s recipe and it’s probably one of the easiest recipes around. The sponge is so simple; all you have to do is put all of the ingredients in a bowl, mix them together and bake. It can be prepared up to two days in advance and reheated when the time comes to serve it up.

Sadly, today is my last day of my mid year holidays. I go back to school tomorrow, which means back to routine and homework, which I’m not looking forward to. But I’m going to try to stay in the moment and enjoy the last day while it lasts. I guess I’ll just eat some Malva pudding and I’m sure that will make me feel better. Anyway, wish me luck for the 2^nd half of the year and enjoy this easy recipe!

Malva Pudding

Serves 10-15 people

Ingredients:

Sponge:

• 2 cups flour
• 2 tbs bicarbonate of soda
• 2 cups castor sugar
• 2 eggs
• 2 tbs apricot jam
• 2 tbs vinegar
• 2 tbs melted butter
• 2 cups milk

Sauce:

• ½ cup cream
• ½ cup milk
• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• ½ cup water
• ½ cup butter

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and grease a 15 x 20 baking tin.
2. In a bowl, combine the sponge ingredients to the flour, one at a time and mix until well combined. Pour the sponge batter into your prepared baking tin and leave to bake for 45 minutes until dark brown and the top has been just burnt.
3. Prepare the sauce. Combine the ingredients in a saucepan over a medium heat and leave to melt until it comes to a slight simmer. Stir occasionally so that nothing burns. Also, watch it with hawk eyes, because I for some reason got distracted and the sauce bubbled out of the pan and all over my stove top.
4. Once the sponge is baked, remove from the oven and poke with a knife or toothpick. Pour  the sauce over the sponge immediately. It might seem like too much, but trust me it will all work out. Leave for a few minutes for the sauce to soak into the sponge.

Serve warm with custard or ice cream

This article was written, and photographed by Ben Orkin. Visit his blog or Instagram for more fantastic food.

The post How To Make The Perfect Malva Pudding – Burn It! appeared first on Zanita.

New YouTube video is live!

Rebecca (aka Raspberry and Rouge) and I have known each other for about three years now, after meeting for the first time on an adventure in Barcelona (you can see that video here!)  she invited me to stay with her in Amsterdam… famous last words! I basically came to visit her weeks later and she couldn’t get me to leave. We collaborated for the first time on this shoot (below) and it was featured on Who What Wear! The rest is history – and whilst we’ve been based in two completely different countries, we’ve managed to visit different places all around the world together – including Australia, Croatia, USA, UK, Sweden, France, Montengro… I truly think it was fate that we met that time in Spain. Love you Rebecca!!

Hope you like our video xx

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The post The Best Friend Test: Rebecca Laurey Edition appeared first on Zanita.

 Just checking in quickly because at the moment I am so unbelievably busy, train, plane, no internet, sight seeing and working.

While writing this article I was sitting on a train watching the French country side roll by. Sunflower field after sunflower field and the odd vivid purple Lavender field, even though I was exhausted I couldn’t go to sleep because I didn’t want to miss the next amazing view. Having just visited Singapore, Beaune and Avignon my next stop was Nice on my European Adventure (Follow my travels on Instagram: @mb_harper) I am headed for some awesome few weeks ahead.

On a side note, there’s something funny about the French which I always thought was a classic cliché, that people walk around carrying a baguette in their arms or strapped to their bike. I assumed it was one of those things that never actually happened, like….

Tourists thinking that Aussies fight Kangaroos with one hand while managing not to burn the shrimp on the barbie with the other…

But let me tell you, those cute clichés really do happen in France – no joke, like all the time – and I FREAKIN LOVE IT! 

The thing about travelling is that you are constantly learning and growing as a person. You’re put into situations where you have to think on your feet, you need to act quickly and you need to get it done otherwise you’re not going to sail smoothly.

While sitting on the train I had been thinking about what I love most about travelling and what gives me that motivation to buy a plane ticket and explore the world. I have come up with three things that gets my heart racing.

1. I love being somewhere new, I love walking around and taking photos and exploring the city. I can be anyone I want. I get to experience new places and meet new people, learn about their stories and how they have arrived in the same place as I have. Every city or town has their own unique stories, culture and people that creates a world full of colour and diversity. Travelling is extremely inspiring; it builds character and creates new possibilities. 

2. Farmers Markets are on the top of my list of must do’s. Exploring new markets and looking at all the amazing fresh produce that they have on offer. Every time I visit somewhere new I have to go to the local markets. Seeing what the locals grow and what’s in season, there’s just something so beautiful about it – I may or may not be obsessed with little baskets of berries, just saying… I also get to sample the food so that’s definitely a plus  

3. I love morning runs in a city – it makes you feel like a local. Weaving in and out of everyone, seeing things you might not have seen when you were walking the same route and taking time for yourself. The fresh air on your face, the smell of the morning air – it’s just so refreshing.  It’s especially wonderful early in the morning as the city is waking up and you experience a different side of it.

Travelling is something that is extremely important to me, it inspires me, it allows me to experience new things and it opens my mind. Sometimes staying in the same place can suffocate you and narrow the way you see things. Get up, get out and get moving and discover somewhere new.  

Where are you going next and what gets your heart racing? 

– Written by Mon

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Blog: M.B Harper

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So it’s Monday – boo!

Over the last couple years, Monday hasn’t really meant so much to me – I could be working any day of the week! Which is both the benefit and a pitfall, nice to have freedom in work but routine is so often underestimated. Gustav and I are back in the office, we rent a space in a ‘office hotel’ so we share common areas with loads of other entrepreneurs and small businesses. There’s 3 levels of offices in our building – yet today Gustav and I are the ONLY people working on our level of around 40. One thing I’ve learnt about Stockholm in July/August, the city is a ghost town. Seems like everyone goes on holidays for a whole month! I’ve been sending emails to some clients the past week and I get replies like ‘Back on August 15th’.  Guess if you can’t beat’em, join’em! Too bad the site never stops…

In other news this week… We have a new member joining our team! You’ll be learning all about that in a future post – we are are so excited and lucky to have this person and their expertise a part of the site. Can’t wait to tell you all about it.

So this outfit! Something casual and VERY optimistic in this incredible mild (boohoo) summer here in Stockholm. It’s breaking my heart a little to know I’m going to Australia in two weeks, where it’s going to be cold and wintery, I’m likely to miss the only times that the weather is good in here in Sweden. Bummer.

Got NYFW to look forward to in September! I’m going to wear my new Chiara Ferragni slingback heels…. aren’t they the cutest!? The eyes!!

shirt dress, And Other Stories

bag, Karen Millen

watch, Larsson & Jennings 

shoes, Chiara Ferragni

Get the Look….

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Exercise can change your life.

Even though Monica is definitively our resident work out expert, I was inspired to write this post while standing in the line for a coffee recognising that I felt FABULOUS post a seriously challenging work out. In my years working as a model, I found it really easy to be motivated to exercise because the amount of money I earnt had an almost direct correlation to how slim I was (yes, that’s pretty fucked up). What came with that way of thinking was my hang-up’s with food… I remember once having a binge on Nutella and rice crackers, followed by this overwhelming sense of panic, like I was gaining kgs on my ass as I digested my food. The food was fine, it was the thinking that was unhealthy.

I’m grateful to be getting older, because those hang-ups that once absorbed my thoughts in my early twenties have passed – and I’ve developed new motivators to get moving. I don’t really place so much self-worth on my weight or appearance – or more like, I’m comfortable with the shape I am, even if I gain a few kgs I won’t consider punishing myself with guilt.

So now, these are the reasons I strap myself into sneakers…

Mental Clarity.

It was specifically this point that inspired my article. A good run or workout can help you clear your head and solve a few problems because of increased serotonin levels. Whilst I was standing in line for coffee, I realised I had a heightened awareness – I could sense the breeze through the door, the smell of the coffee, I felt both energised and focused – it was a kind of subtle exhilaration! All because I had just walked out of a good sweaty training session – and the feeling hasn’t left me hours later.  Exercise is a natural anti-stress treatment.

Improved Energy – and Productivity.

I feel this point almost defies logic, how can you gain more energy by doing more? I was able to prove this point myself years ago when I went through a phase of regular tough workouts – sometimes twice a day. For some reason, I was only needing around 6 hours of sleep a night and my energy levels didn’t wain through the day, so deciding to go for a second workout didn’t really seem like much of stretch. I don’t think it’s necessary to work out THAT much, but knowing how great it was to gain extra energy and in turn, increase my productivity, proved to be incredibly valuable. Some of the world’s leaders in various fields are so busy, yet wouldn’t consider giving up regular exercise because it’s a vital building block in achieving their daily goals. If you want to get more done to the best of your ability, exercising should be a priority.

Greater Strength.

This one I observed from myself just last week. Prior to a month ago, my exercise habits were very minimal and irregular. You could say I’d ‘fallen off the wagon’ when it came to working out. I’m a little ashamed to admit – I would arrive at the office and choose the elevator over the stairs – even though I was just two floors up. I just didn’t have the energy to tackle the stairs, I know I would feel a bit puffed when I reached the top because I simply lacked strength. I’m happy to report that now I wouldn’t really consider the elevator (unless I’m carrying alot of stuff!) because it feels so easy to dash up the stairs – and that goes for all those little physical exertions through the day, like running for the bus or carrying in the washing inside, lifting up a child. This benefit will creep up on you and you won’t really grasp the full benefit until your well into your routine. These small things are really life changing!

We all need find our own personal motivators to get us out and exercising.

What’s so important is finding the right ones – that get us inspired in a positive way. Hopefully these points have helped some of you find that little bit of extra drive you need. You never regret a workout!

Zanita x

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The post 3 Inspiring Reasons to Exercise – That Aren’t Related To Your Weight appeared first on Zanita.

I hope I’m not the only one here who is guilty of getting a little bit happy over clothes.

I’m a material girl! That’s not to say I NEED any particular item of clothing… that’s just an expression I use when something is just freaking FABULOUS. Like Sophia Webster shoes. I need them…. because they are fabulous and fun. They make me happy.

In fact – there’s a whole load attributes to dressing that actually make me feel happy. Dressing for fun.

Here’s my rules to ‘Dressing for Happiness.’

1. Wear your colours – as in your favourite colours – in my case, I just wear a great variety… or if I’m wearing something plain I’ll add a pop of colour, it’s like my little signature.

2. Fearlessly take risks. Expressing yourself through clothes is what I’m all about – but the most important part of this point, you aren’t allowed to give any f*cks about what people think. Like yesterday – I had a bunch of negative comments about my outfit on social media… I really couldn’t care less. I’m dressing me – for me!!

3. It’s gotta be comfortable. Here’s a news flash about those skinny jeans that you have to thrust and jump around to fit into? Your lady parts are NOT thanking you for it. Wear clothes that fit you well and fabrics your skin likes otherwise you’re inviting daily irritation into your life. Definitely wear comfortable underwear.

4. Care about what you wear. Sometimes I wake up in the morning and just can’t give any f*cks about my personal styling. It’s on those days that I almost always run into a  PR girl or an editor on the street. Why didn’t I just iron that shirt that actually compliments my outfit?! Go that little extra mile to look put together and you can feel more confident throughout the day.

5. Find what suits your body type. We all wanna feel good in what we wear. I personally have (ridiculous) hang-ups about my shoulders so I feel way more confident in shirts… You gotta know what works for you! And asking a friend what they think is probably a good option because we all suffer from personal bias.

6. Wear fun pieces. This is totally about personal preference – but for me, the most fun pieces are onesies, dungarees and overalls – and then flippy midi skirts. I just think these items are super cute and have a playfulness that jeans and t-shirt simply don’t offer. You might have more fun wearing peter-pan collars or circle skirts… it’s really up to you!

7. Use accessories. I’m actually a bit guilty of not following this tip too often – but accessories can really amp up the personality of an otherwise simple look. Guess it all adds to the confidence you should feel when styled up in a good outfit. Just add something shiny!

Hope you enjoyed these methods! I love wearing clothes that make me happy. Style should always be fun.

skirt, Josh Goot

top, Tibi

bag, Karen Millen

sunglasses, Celine

shoes, Sophia Webster

Get the Look…

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Most people who are satisfied with their life and working their dream job didn’t get there alone – they did it with a wonderful network surrounding them, whether it was mentors guiding them, bosses (both old and new) propelling them forward, or an industry insider offering a big break – whoever it was doesn’t matter, the point is that someone was there. For this very reason, building a professional network is essential.

Talking to complete strangers can feel awkward especially if you’re an introvert like me, but truth is it’s only weird if you make it weird. I’ve learned over the years that most people genuinely enjoy helping others. They are also more willing to keep in contact with you if you make an effort to reach out to them. I used to struggled with networking, but now I realize I’ve been doing it all along so if you’re sitting in that same boat, here are a few tips to get you started:

1. Talk to everyone you already know.

At this particular point in life, most of your friends and acquaintances are probably in a professional field so get to know what they do, learn about their company, and see if there are any opportunities you might be interested in. This is so important because an internal referral typically outweighs an external candidate. Social networks like Facebook make it easy to keep in contact with friends and family so don’t hesitate to drop a quick message – no excuses.

The other thing is, a professional network doesn’t necessarily mean connecting with people who can give you tangible benefits.

It can comprise of people who help you emotionally – those who inspire you, motivate you, give you great advice, dream with you, and also realists who level set with you.

2. Get to know everyone you meet a little more personally.

By nature, people enjoy talking about themselves, their experiences, and what they do and since this is the case, you can learn so much more by listening and asking the right questions. Therefore, sincerely converse with people you’re introduced to, take the time to get to know them without making it seem like you’re just looking to gain something from them.

As a non-talker, I find it easier to bring up a general topic to trigger a conversation and then just let it flow naturally into what they do professionally. Great conversation starters surround where someone is from, how they got to their current place, if they like it so far and then transition into what they do.

3. Help others.

A professional network is a two-way street – you seek help from others and in the same way, you should be willing to help others. So introduce people to others, especially if you know it could benefit them. Don’t be afraid to refer people to your organization or put in a good word for them.

If people like you and you’ve done something great for them, chances are they will talk about you, introduce you to others, and look out for opportunities for you as well.

4. Take advantage of the Internet.

We’ve seen bloggers become friends with other bloggers before actually ever meeting in person. Thinking about it sounds a little scary, but the relationships that exist prove it’s possible. So connect virtually with people over Twitter, blogs, and Instagram – make online friends, but do so with caution and care. (And Caveat: Don’t be a creep – it must be organic.) Pitch ideas, contribute articles, and exchange dialogue with others in the community. You never know what possibilities can surface.

Simple enough? I’m sure you’ve been doing it all along, just take it to the next level.

XO,

Susan

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Image Source Credits – My Modern Met, Vogue, Fashionising

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Got up out of the wrong side of the bed this morning… or should I say, struggled to get out of the wrong side of the bed…!

Let’s talk about some of the WORST things about being a fashion blogger aka-

First World Problems by Zanita The Fashion Blogger

1. My back and neck hurt from sitting in my computer chair and probably from also looking down at my phone. In fact, I’m suffering from ‘Forward Head Posture‘ and it’s a little bit gross. Justin Beiber is also a sufferer… at least I know we’re struggling together.

2. I also pulled a muscle in my back because I’m seeing a Personal Trainer on the reg for the first time ever cos I’m I wanna look super fit for NYFW (I want to fit into samples). Sara is looking bloody amazing lately and I don’t wanna get left behind on the fit train. Having a PT is super expensive and now I might have hurt myself and I’ve already paid for a session today. Worried I won’t be able to do it.

3. Couldn’t be bothered/find the strength to iron my shirt this morning and now I regret it. Feel like every pic we snapped here is heinous and my hair looks too ‘hipster surfer’ for my liking. Felt like I looked wider than usual in my pictures and resent that It’s probably all in my head.

So I just discovered Pixel Thoughts  on buzzfeed…. And it’s changed my whole morning. Whining rant bitch is over. You need to check it out.

Thing about my bad day vibes, I know I’ve just worked them up for myself. I’m pretty much ruminating in my own suffering (again, gross) and I know I have the ability to pull myself out of it… could it be that I actually LIKE feeling sorry for myself?

Well, yes.

There’s shit loads of things to feel excited and positive about in life and here’s a few I’m going to think about right now.

• Cat videos

• Cappuccinos

• Summer weather

• Weekends

• Laughing till you almost pee

• Margaritas

• Denim onesies

• Mint ice cream

• Riding on a bike

• Wine with friends

• Dry shampoo

• Peonies

• Not having to wait in line at checkout

• Concerts

• After exercise feeling

• Holidays

• Reaching a goal

• Truffle Risotto

Ok everyone! I’m having an awesome day now, taking back the power. Hope you are having a good one too. Love and light to all!!!

blazer, J Brand

trousers, Self Portrait

shirt, Equipment

shoes, Diavolina

Retiro bag, Louis Vuitton

 Get the Look…

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I can’t believe it’s finally here.

The last episode of Fashion Bloggers Season 2 – the biggest and baddest yet. For this episode Sara, Kate, Nadia and myself head to Dubai for a whole week of Adventures. These images were snapped on an sunset incredible boat ride. This was really a once-in-a-lifetime kind of trip – and made so special by the fact I got to share it with the girls and the whole fashion bloggers team. Mandy was sorely missed on this trip, she couldn’t make it due to work commitments… Such a bummer.

I wish I could tell you more, I haven’t had a chance to see the episode… Maybe I can just let the pictures speak for themselves… and there’s loads more editorials coming over the next week! 

Photography – Me

Fashion Bloggers Season Two Finale airs tonight on E! at 9.30pm

This trip was made possible with the help of #mydubai @dubai @qantas @anantaradubai and @peraquumdesertpalm

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