June 2016 – The Blush Diaries | A Dubai Based Fashion and Beauty Blog by Rania Esper

One Shoulder Top

I genuinely didn’t anticipate the return of the one shoulder top to be so soon, but of course I saw a little ruffled one and decided it’s time to accept its comeback. I absolutely adore the sailor-style navy and white combination, and this look has an extra feminine twist with the ruffle and lace. I prefer a one shoulder top where the mismatched shoulder is balanced with a trimmed waistline, thus keeping it from getting too overwhelming. I have seen beautiful pieces that are a combination of a one shoulder top or dress, with big ruffles and a babydoll fit which were styled to perfection. However, with my body type I usually like to stay away from overly loud textures and fits to keep my outfit ladylike and slimming. Don’t get me wrong, I never promise to completely avoid something and may try different fits eventually.

When it comes to accessorizing a one shoulder top or dress, it’s best to carry a satchel or clutch so you can avoid having any straps on your shoulder. However, if you’re traveling then it would definitely be more convenient to carry a small crossbody bag with a thin strap. Since it’s summer and everyone is jetting off somewhere beautiful, I chose to wear my favorite strappy flat sandals because they are the right touch of stylish with the added bonus of comfort. Jewelry can be tricky depending on how high your top or dress will fit, so I recommend a dainty little necklace and a pair of sparkly ear jackets. Will you be wearing the one shoulder trend this year, and if so how would you style it, my darling?

xo Rania

One Shoulder Top: Zara | Skirt: Shop the Mint Boutique | Bag: Michael Kors Selma | Sandals: Steve Madden | Wishbone Necklace: Baublebar.

Photography by Natelee Cocks.

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Essential Dresses for Your Summer Travels

When packing for your summer vacation, or any other vacation for that matter, your list probably consists of a variety of separates to supply you an endless number of outfit combinations. However, no holiday capsule wardrobe is complete without your essential dresses. No fuss, lightweight garments that can be styled from day to night, your trips this season are the perfect time to be showing off your dress collection. But like any other time you’re filling up your suitcase, the ability to edit is crucial. The specific items to bring will depend on your destination. So if you’re having trouble narrowing down your options, below is a guide on packing according to your holiday getaway.

If you’re going on a city break:
Look fabulously chic in a shirt dress. One of the best features of this classic piece is that it can be adjusted to suit any weather condition. Wear it with a cardigan in case you’re going somewhere cooler, or on its own if the temperatures are at an all-time high. As Marie Claire states, “It’s such a key piece that can be brought out time and time again.”

If you’re headed for the tropics:
Go for maxi dresses. Style experts from Lyst suggest saving easy jersey maxis and bold prints for the weekend. But when you’re on holiday, you can take full advantage of these summer staples for that laidback feel that’s hard to pull off when you’re in the city.

If you’re traveling to a cultural destination:
Veer towards the conservative side. Places such as Istanbul and other religious spots have stricter dress codes embedded in their cultural norms, so t-shirt dresses that are of modest length are your safest best for destinations like these. Although a long, cotton item might feel a bit restrained compared to the rest of their dresses, The Travel Hack reminds women that it’s possible to look and feel sexy in this travel must-have, without showing any flesh.

What essential dresses will you be bringing on your trip this summer?

xo Rania

Little White Box Pleated Skirt

White is certainly my go-to color, and I just love how this box pleated skirt fits me. The ways to style a skirt like this are endless, and the circle shape is so playful and sweet. The reason a box pleated skirt works so well is the defined waistline and the soft pleating which give the outfit an easy and feminine feel.

A white skirt is a great summer staple that could be styled with flats or heels, bold prints, colorful tops or a bright white-on-white ensemble. You can choose between a mini or midi skirt – or even have one of each – depending on which is more comfortable and works best for your body type. Caged heels will add a nice edge to a girly outfit, and combined with a skater mini skirt make your legs appear super long and slim. I completed this look with a pair of bold sunglasses which are one of my most favorite summer pieces.

My hair’s been growing out pretty quickly, and although I’m used to my blunt long bob I have been tempted by all the pictures of gorgeous summer mermaid hair I see all the time. I’m not sure if you’ll agree but I always find different hair lengths and style suited to different outfits. Since summer clothes consist of a lot of maxi co-ord sets, tropical playsuits and cute mini skirts I might leave my hair in this land of in-between for now so I can have more style options available to me. What do you think, long or short?

xo Rania

Photography by Natelee Cocks.

Makeup by Beatriz Gonzalez.

Off the Shoulder Top

The heat has officially become unbearable these days, and so I’m provisioning my wardrobe with a bunch of lightweight off the shoulder tops and dresses. Blush pink is so obviously my favorite color, but I don’t actually wear it as often as you would think mainly because I prefer to have a tan when I wear it. I would usually pair this off the shoulder tiered top with white jeans and a full neutral palette, but I wanted to go with a black and pink combo this time. The ruffle on this top gives it an oversized effect which I balanced with skinny jeans and strappy sandals. What I love most about this off the shoulder trend is it looks good on everyone and is quite slimming as well. This style is flirty and cute, so it makes an immediate statement.

I’ve been making it a point to be more intentional with every piece I invest in, and assessing how often I would actually wear something. Ever since I committed to doing that, I’ve been wearing more of my clothes and getting more creative with styling them over and over again. My motto has always been quality over quantity, but I’m putting my money where my mouth is and trying to create a wardrobe I’m confident in and a style that is comfortable and timeless. Have you been going through some style changes, and what’s your mantra these days?

xo Rania

Off the Shoulder top: Asos | Jeans: Topshop | Heels: Express | Hat: Nordstrom

Photography by Natelee Cocks

Makeup by Beatriz Gonzalez

Baroque Tea Dress

Chi Chi London has the prettiest clothes and this baroque dress comes in so many beautiful colors. I couldn’t commit to one of their tea dresses until I saw this sky blue and gold combo. It would seem appropriate because of my dark hair that I would relate the most with Princess Jasmine or maybe even Snow White, but the truth is as a little a girl I’d always dreamt of being Cinderella. She is kind, forgiving and completely selfless. Although a so many people think her character is passive and a little subdued, I find her immensely brave and strong. To be good in a world filled with hate and negativity is beyond courageous in my eyes, and for that I’ll always think she’s a wonderful role model to young girls. So, here I am finally having my Cinderella moment after all these years – but in my own way of course.

The bodice is padded and there are quite a few layers of tulle underneath the skirt that make it a little bulky and heavy, so I would recommend removing a layer or two for a more comfortable fit. The baroque dress has such beautiful intricate detailing and the fabric is really good quality, which makes it a great choice for a wedding, prom or gala. You can simply pair a tea dress with gold sandals or nude pumps and chandelier earrings. Since the lace really speaks for itself and the neck is high, you can keep the accessorizing to a minimum. I’d love to hear what you think of this baroque dress and if you would wear this style. Who’s your favorite disney princess?

xo Rania

“They can’t order me to stop dreaming.” ~ Cinderella

Dress: Chi Chi London
Photography by Natelee Cocks.