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

The Journey to Happiness and Positivity

Most people do this thing at the beginning of each year where they decide to start over, like clicking on a reset button. I’m not a big fan of new year’s resolutions, but I’m all for a little reflecting at any given time. 2016 was quite tough for me and carried some difficulties along with wonderful, memorable moments. At the other side of it all, I came out of it with a lot more strength and positivity than I’ve ever had before. I’ve learned to live bolder, shine brighter, to say yes to new things, to give and accept grace, and to express myself more freely. Most importantly, I’ve realized how important it is to live your life for yourself, and not to worry about pleasing others. The Journey to happiness can be long and hard, but it requires a conscious decision to enjoy every moment, recover from the hardships and search for the excitement. There will be always be ups and downs, of course, but you have to ride it out and focus on the good in each day. The best piece of wisdom I heard at the beginning of the year came from my brother, and he said: Don’t let a number define you, because you get a fresh start whenever you want.

Happy New Year my loves, I hope this one will be great.

xo Rania

The Journey to happiness.

Photography by Natelee.

The Chunky Sweater Every Girl Needs

You guys know that I live in Dubai, which means there is a barely a few weeks of chunky sweater weather for me to indulge in my obsession with knits. Nothing says snow like a white, cable knit garment with puffy sleeves. I remember hating the cold during my college years in Michigan, and specifically an oversized chunky sweater. The minute I was deprived of all things fall and winter, I started dreaming of the days when I can experience it again.

Don’t get me wrong, when the temperature is so low that you can’t feel the tips of your fingers and toes, it’s impossible to get away with an outfit like this. But since I am dreaming up this outfit, and I do live in Dubai, this look is totally plausible. If it’s too cold, all you have to do is add a warm coat and printed scarf. The point is, I buy more sweaters than I get the chance to wear, and I don’t feel bad about it either.

I wanted a basic and simple look this time so the chunky sweater would really stand out, but I think it would also look great with a suede mini skirt and over the knee boots. The great thing about sweaters is you can wear them out, while lounging at home, or even at the beach on those windier days. Have you stocked up on sweaters this year, and how do you style your favorite ones?

xo Rania

Chunky Sweater: Chicwish | Jeans: American Eagle Jeggings | Bag: Banana Republic | Necklace: Baublebar
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Photography by Natelee.

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Steve Madden Over the Knee Boots

For the longest time, I never imagined I would actually wear an outfit like this, until I decided to invest in this pair of Steve Madden Over the Knee boots. Obviously, we don’t usually wear a lot of boots here in the Dubai desert. But thanks to the ever evolving fall/winter fashion, boots are even more fun to wear with skirts, shorts and dresses. It was tempting to get a pair in taupe, camel or burgundy, but I was sure I’d get the most wear out of a simple black pair. I mostly stick with light, neutral colors, but black will always be timeless and elegant. I really like my shoes to be comfortable, especially if they are heels, and I can walk in my Steve Madden over the knee boots for hours, so I highly recommend them.

This is my favorite time of the year, especially in Dubai, because the weather is just perfect. It’s still very sunny during the day, and perfect for the beach, but we get a beautiful breeze in the evenings. I honestly can’t believe November is already upon us, and the new year is just a few weeks away. This year feels like it just flew by, and I don’t know about you, but I am SO ready for 2017. As for what’s left of this year, I will be spending plenty of time with family and friends soaking up the holiday season, and listening to christmas music in my free time. Let me know what you think of this outfit, and I’d love to see how you styled your own pair of over the knee boots.

xo Rania

Steve Madden Over the knee boots | Bag: Kate Spade | Skirt: Banana Republic, The Outlet Village | Necklace: c/o River Island.

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*This is not a sponsored post and all opinions are my own. Affiliate links are used in this post.

Photography by Natelee.

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Blush Pink Trench Coat for Fall

Right in the middle of summer, while planning our trip to Italy, I envisioned myself wearing a blush pink trench coat while roaming the streets of Florence. Luckily, I found the perfect one, and will be styling it through fall and even next spring. The thing about trench coats is they remind of you rain, which I personally don’t enjoy. But when it comes in a pretty dusty pink shade, you can change your perception of it and associate it more with cherry blossoms. I figured trench coats are meant to be worn on-the-go, which is why I paired it with my favorite distressed Denim from American Eagle.

It’s a real thing to be in love with coffee, and I am guilty as charged. Coffee for me isn’t always about functioning and a necessity for caffeine, I mostly just love the taste. I found photos of The Brass Cafe at The Beach Mall in JBR on instagram, and Natelee and I ended up doing an impromptu photoshoot there. The warm tones of gold and oak wood really brought of the color of my Blush Pink Trench Coat beautifully, and I couldn’t have picked a better location for this outfit. How do you feel about trench coats this fall?

You can shop my look below. My Blush pink trench coat is out of stock, but I have linked similar items to anything that is unavailable. My fake tattoo is from Conscious Ink and it says, ‘Perfectly Imperfect’, which is a sentiment I’m wholeheartedly embracing right now.

xx Rania

Photography by Natelee.

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Missguided Nude Wrap Dress

I realize it’s been way too long since I last blogged, so I wanted my first post back to feature this super pretty nude wrap dress. This dress is actually a faux wrap, which is probably a safer option to avoid any unwanted slips — if you know what I mean.

I’ve always had a thing for neutrals and, except for the occasional bold print and fun color, I keep choosing more minimalistic pieces. The main reason I like the majority of my wardrobe to be this way is versatility. Because I take extra good care of my clothes and many items stay with me for years, I eventually tend to get bored with the heavily printed or overly trendy pieces.

While I’ve been experimenting a lot in the past few years, I lately find myself going back to basics. So I’m aiming for a more lady-like and slightly sexy look. I don’t think age should be a major factor affecting your style, but as I’m nearing thirty, I’m being drawn to a different vibe. I’ve certainly had my fun with tulle skirts and cute bows on the blog. While I’m not saying I’ll be giving them up entirely, I will be focusing on more sophisticated pieces that are still feminine. Another new obsession of mine is rose gold, and I finally found my perfect match in these mirrored sunglasses. What’s your style mood lately?

xo Rania

Nude Wrap Dress: Missguided | Heels: Aldo Shoes | Bag: Kate Spade | Lipstick: Candy K by Kylie Jenner | Photography by Natelee Cocks.
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White Eyelet Sundress for Summer

I have three words for you: White Eyelet Sundress. First of all, i’ll be completely transparent and say that I put on a little weight this year and I’m not too happy about it. It’s brought out the obvious truth that clothes aren’t necessarily made for curvy girls, and I have to work almost twice as hard to find a well-fitting piece. Don’t get me wrong, while I appreciate and love my curves most of the time, it can get frustrating when something just doesn’t fit right.

This is where a pretty little sundress can easily fix the problem. With a sweetheart neckline, fitted waist and a slightly billowy skirt, I knew this dress would be my go-t0 piece this summer.

I wanted to forgo the heels with this casual and flirty dress so I went for a comfy pair of lace up flats. Finally, I added the soft chambray shirt and cross body bag to complete the day-time look. I’d like to style it again with some cute wedges and possibly a soft cardigan. This certainly isn’t the first or last white eyelet sundress I will own, but with a bow like that who can resist?

xo Rania

White Eyelet Sundress: Miss Selfridge | Chambray Shirt: Express | Crossbody Bag: Satchels | Flats: Aldo Shoes

Photography by Natelee Cocks.

A special thanks to Comptoir102 for letting us use their space.

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Bella Maxi by Flynn Skye

I came across Flynn Skye on Instagram and immediately loved their feminine and laid back designs. The Bella Maxi sells out so fast that I had to stay on alert for days until I was able to order it in this White Rose print. Another current favorite of mine is the lace up sandals and heels, especially in suede. They’re sexy with a bit of an edge which contrasts with the femininity of the floral print and flowy fabric of the dress.

I’m becoming more aware of where clothes are manufactured and making an effort to find and support up and coming designers and brands. Just like the weather, fashion trends ebb and flow and so does my style.

When I visited L.A. a few years ago, I was smitten with all the little boutiques, local designers and shops. California is home to beautiful beaches, a variety of cultures and really stylish people. Flynn Skye is the epitome of L.A. style, with so many prints for different tastes. Their designs can be worn during the spring, through summer and well into fall in warmer locations. If there are any brands and designers you’re loving lately, let me know so I can check them out!

xo Rania

Bella Maxi dress: Flynn Skye. Photography by Natelee Cocks.

A special thanks to Comptoir 102 for letting us shoot in their beautiful space.

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Red Skater Dress

Millie Mackintosh is a total babe and her Asos collection is absolutely gorgeous, with this red skater dress obviously being one of my favorite pieces. Off the shoulder? Check. Strawberry red shade? Check. Flattering skater form? Check. Red’s not an everyday color, but with the soft off shoulder straps and flouncy skirt this red skater dress can be styled so many ways. Wear it casually with flat sandals or your favorite wedges, and dress it up at night with strappy heels and a cheeky clutch. I can’t tell you enough how beautifully this dress fits, with the softest fabric and just the right amount of structure.

If you haven’t checked out the Millie Mackintosh Asos Collection yet, you need to head there now and have a look. This red skater dress is currently on sale and comes in 2 colors. My biggest worry with online shopping is if the piece is actually true to size and whether it’ll flatter my body type. After seeing the quality and comfort of this dress, I’m pretty confident I’ll love other pieces from the collection. Will you be wearing red this summer? I’d love to know how you would style this red skater dress.

xo Rania

Red Skater Dress: Asos | Wedges: New York and Company

Photography by Natelee Cocks.

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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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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.