jysla kay.

Lace Me Up

2012-02-20T04:01:00.000-08:00

(Vintage dress (worn as top), Asos pants, Rubi hat, Sportsgirl belt and heels, Temt bag)

The weather has been so beautiful and sunny lately, but I felt like wearing something other than my usual skirt-and-shirt combo today. I've never really been a pants girl because I've been cursed with a long torso and short legs but high waisted bottoms usually do the trick of casting an illusion of longer legs).

I am in love with these lace pants from ASOS, but they don't fit me as well as I had hoped. Not the most accurate size 6 I've come across (AND I'm usually a size 8). Although I still feel a little paranoid that it looks too big on me, I'm too attached to return it.

Floral

2012-02-16T22:23:00.000-08:00

(Asos dress, Rubi hat, Mooloola heels)

The sun was shining, the breeze was warm, so obviously that calls for some ice-cream and fun. I think I'm using the sunshine as an excuse to wear hats every day, because I haven't been able to stop wearing this taupe hat from Rubi/Cotton On.

There is so much going on with this dress, that makes it so ridiculously fun to wear: frills, front tie-up detailing, uneven hems and pretty dark florals. It's such a different take on the usual florals that is right up my alley.

Now that I've had a small taste of the rainbow, I can't stay away from colours. I used to think that bright colours would take away the sophistication or elegance of an outfit, but I realise now that that is so far from the truth. Trying to be serious doesn't really work for me, so I was inevitably going to drown myself in colours sooner or later.

Valentine

2012-02-14T02:52:00.000-08:00

(Zara shirt, Mika & Gala skirt, Forever New flats, Estee Lauder 'Wild Fire' lipstick, Revlon 'Tangerine' nail polish)

I hate to jump on the mushy Valentine post bandwagon, but I couldn't help but share the delicious breakfast I was treated to this morning. I'm not much of a gift person, and I think my boyfriend has realised that too by making our 'picnic by the lake' a traditional Valentine's custom (reminiscent of how our early dates were spent). For those sharing this day with their other half or those lucky enough to devote this day to spoiling themselves, I hope you all had a wonderful loving day.

Today, I wanted to put a spin on the traditional red Valentine's colour and opted for a coral/orange theme on my nails, lips and feet. I don't often wear flats, purely because it is so hard to find a pair of flats that are special enough to account for the lack of heel but this three-tone pair is packed with little amazing details like the white ankle strap, metallic look heel and the pointed toe yet still keeps its casual 'no heels' appeal.

Happy Valentine's Day! <3

Unconventional

2012-02-10T02:24:00.000-08:00

(Miss Unkon 'Ever Shooting Star' knit jacket gifted by Need Supply Co., Cheap Monday dress from General Pants Co., Sportsgirl socks, Cotton On hat, Wittner heels)

This incredibly soft knit by Miss Unkon is a dream to wear -- not only does it keep me seriously warm (which is saying something, because I get cold so easily) but it is definitely a statement piece for the cooler seasons. Now, I'll no longer be afraid to step out of the house when it is freezing at night as I can easily wear this cream knit jacket over anything. So a huge thank you to the lovely Alyssa from Need Supply Co. for gifting me this piece! (Did I mention it is REALLY soft?)

With that said, this is not an outfit I ever saw myself wearing. Mustard socks and pony hair leopard heels? Probably not the first combination that would come to mind, but I actually love the colourful result.

Photos by Meeting Aubrey.

Natural Stones

2012-02-06T03:39:00.000-08:00

(Vintage shirt, DIY skirt, Temt bag, Witchery necklace, ASOS boots, Sportsgirl 'Lace' nail polish)

So as I upload these pictures, I realise that my shirt is absurdly creased, but I promise it was crease-free when I put it on this morning. I am wearing more colour in this one outfit, than I usually ever do -- even if they may be colours leaning more towards neutral. My nails are enjoying all sorts of pastel polish, from a frosty blue to a lilac from Sportsgirl called 'Lace'.

Say hello to my mushroom hair. I can't wait for my layers to grow out, because my hair is way too thick to have that many layers up top. But how many times do we walk away from the hairdressers completely satisfied? Partly because I walked in there, not having the slightest idea what I actually wanted.

Hope this weather isn't destroying everyone's plans. It's a shame that our Summer has only been consistent in rainy days.

Palazzo

2012-02-02T15:44:00.000-08:00

(Sportsgirl knit crochet shawl, Temt palazzo pants, vintage shirt, Rubi Shoes clogs, Trade Secret necklace)

I've had this necklace for a while, but I haven't really worn it much. It's one of those pieces that sit much more nicely than expected and look totally different on (than when it's hanging). It was a surprising find but I passionately believe you can find great things in even the most unexpected and unlikely places.

With a simple colour palette of off-white and black, gold bangles helped to make the whole look a little less ordinary. But as simple as this outfit may be, it is seriously comfy. Pants that double as a skirt but don't restrict movement? I'm sold.

If you've been following me on instagram (username: jyslakay), you would know that I have literally snipped off most of my hair. It sits around my shoulders now, no longer finding its way into my mouth if there is the slightest bit of wind. This is my last post with long hair. Don't worry, I'm surprised as you are. It was an impulsive decision and desire for change, and though it'll take a little while to get used to -- it'll always grow out if I decide I hate it!

Pleats Please

2012-01-29T02:02:00.000-08:00

(Mossman 'Pleats Please' shirt, vintage skirt, Sportsgirl wedges, brandless bag, Kikki K organiser)

I know I'm late for the whole "Happy New Year/2012/Resolutions" post, but better late than never! January is almost over but I only just bought my weekly organiser/diary for the year. I have 4 books that all serve a unique purpose: to stay on top of deadlines, to spark creativity and record my memories, to store favourite quotes from everywhere, and to write my to-do lists and reminders. I am insanely addicted to collecting new journals and books, and justify it by telling myself that they'll all be put to good use... someday.

But being realistic, having a weekly organiser is essential. Seeing my week's plans spread over two pages is incredibly helpful (but sometimes overwhelming) and brings my level of organisation up a notch.

This skirt still remains one of my most treasured vintage finds, and it is entertaining to wear on a windy day, especially paired with this vibrant mustard pleated shirt from Mossman. Side splits may not be everyone's cup of tea, but anything that blows fantastically with the wind is in my good books.

something blue

2012-01-19T02:46:00.000-08:00

(Sportsgirl back drape twist top, Forcast skirt, ASOS boots, gifted bag, Diva rings, hat from brandless store)

Me wearing pink AND frills AND a bow? I can hardly believe it myself. But I do love pastel colours, especially this soft, fairy-floss pink colour. I 'toughened up' this look by pairing it with my favourite boots and chunky rings. I wore this outfit to a special catch-up date with one of my close friends, and we sipped on iced white chocolates and mudslide mochas, while later that night, my boyfriend and I camped in front of the TV eating sushi for dinner.

Just over a month left of holidays before uni starts up again, so I'm going to work hard to get plenty of posts done before I run out of time. Hopefully I'll be able to do more test shoots too, because I've been neglecting my photography way too much lately.

wild fire

2012-01-08T00:46:00.000-08:00

(Estée Lauder 'Wild Fire' lipstick, Sportsgirl lurex sweater, MINKPINK peter pan collar blouse, non-branded black dress, thrifted bag, Payless Shoes cobalt blue wedges)

Yes, you read correctly. Those beautiful wedges are from Payless Shoes and they only cost me $29. They caught my eye as I walking past, and I couldn't resist buying them.

I feel like I'm back at high school in this outfit (except my school skirts were always to my knees) because of the jumper over the blouse. When I walked out of my room this morning, even my mum questioned why I looked semi-respectable. I'll admit, I was pretty excited to see grey skies when I woke up because I've really missed layering. The asymmetrical and frilly hems that I layered today made a simple combination much more interesting.

My nails are back to good ol' black, but I'm itching to try new colours. I'm on the hunt for a coral colour to match my lips! Just putting it out there... I am IN LOVE with coral lips now, so that's the only colour that will be on my lips for a long time. I think it's an amazing, fun day-to-night shade. I'd love to hear suggestions of any great lipstick ranges that you guys love!

ashes and wine

2011-12-30T00:40:00.000-08:00

(Myer hat, thrifted oversized sweater, Mooloola faux leather backpack, ASOS boots)

I thought I had lost my hat, but I finally found it smothered by the mess of my own room, and I am complete once again. It took me so long to find a hat that actually suited me, because most hats just don't suit my face shape, so I hold onto this woolly treasure like there's no tomorrow. I haven't stopped wearing it since I found it again - probably subconsciously afraid that if I put it down somewhere, I'll never remember where or find it again.

I am in my usual colours of tan/white/black today, but thankfully my nails added a pop of colour to the outfit. I'm not anti-colour, I promise, I'm just not one to be attracted to bold coloured pieces when I shop. My peacock feather necklace (psst... it's actually an earring I hooked onto a gold chain) adds some subtle colours too.

Also, anyone with wavy hair who also straightens it regularly... WHY???

I would kill to wake up with wild, frizzy waves everyday. My hair is fairly thick, but it just looks like it lacks so much volume when it's straight. I just like messy, big hair. And for me, the right kind of hair can really complete an outfit.

Hope you all bagged some great bargains at the Boxing Day sale! I know I sure did..

heartlines

2011-12-22T15:54:00.000-08:00

(Sportsgirl knitted cardigan & grey shirt, lurex dress worn as skirt, ASOS boots)

This dress has been in my wardrobe for a long time, hidden at the back underneath piles of clothes, but only now is it deemed acceptable to wear it in public (as a skirt). It can be a good (and sometimes bad) thing when fashion trends make you dig deep for your never-worn-before clothes, because I hate the feeling I get when I look at a piece of clothing and know that I haven't worn it once since I bought it. I guess that's part of the reason why I enjoy doing regular 'spring cleaning' rounds through my wardrobe because it sparks creativity for new outfits and uncovers things I forgot I ever bought.

The Sportsgirl cardigan is my latest purchase, not only because it's fitting for the current Sydney "summer" weather, but I love the movement at the ends. I'm a sucker for anything that looks comfortable, like oversized cardigans and flowy skirts, and anything that can double as a relaxed Sunday morning outfit.

lucent.

2011-12-21T05:58:00.000-08:00

A test shoot with Hannah, a beautiful new face from Chadwick. Can you believe she's only 15? These photos hardly do her justice. There was so much going on while we were shooting, and clearly I couldn't resist taking a fun shot with the polar bear (don't let the pink bow deceive you, it was a man inside that suit).

I don't think it has quite sunken in yet that Christmas is THIS Sunday. Has anyone else used Christmas as an excuse to buy yourself a present (or two)? My present to myself arrived this morning in the form of four shoe boxes, so I can't wait to break into them and get some outfit posts done!

x

lover, find your cover

2011-12-14T00:20:00.000-08:00

Thrifted metallic blazer / High-waisted skirt (belonging to my Grandma) / Acid wash singlet, size L (Forecast) / Mimi Loves Jimi heels (General Pants Co.) / Rings (Diva, Sportsgirl, Forever 21) / Bracelets & bangles (Thrifted and DIY)

Eating lychees and spraying my laptop everytime I bite into one as I type this. The weather was windy and dull today as usual, but it was just warm enough to ditch the maxi skirts and thick socks.

I have two more blog posts lined up, one is a recent test shoot, and the other is more of an update.
A big hello and thank you to my new followers on bloglovin'/twitter/instagram. Even the smallest show of support goes a long way and means the world to me. (And thank you so much for the birthday wishes!)

My lens has officially gone kaput, deciding it would be a good idea to no longer focus. I did my best to try and unjam it, but something creaked and groaned and some critical looking plastic piece fell out... so now I'm trying to save up for the much more reliable 50mm f/1.4. (I do like my 50mm lenses).

I've been feeling a bit uninspired lately, the fashion equivalent of a writer's block, so I'm hoping my new journal will spark a bit of creativity.. (more on my journal next post! or if you're following me on instagram, you'd have already seen a sneak peek).

Photos by my Kevin, as always.

flume

2011-11-28T22:32:00.000-08:00

White singlet (Cotton On) / Pleated mid-length skirt (a random brandless store) / Tasseled patchwork bag & cross necklace with beads (Sportsgirl) / Grey/brown wedges (Betts)

I am seriously tempted to turn this pleated skirt into something half sheer by cutting the lining underneath to an appropriate length, but I'm afraid I'll ruin it with crooked cutting or bad length estimations. Learning to sew is probably right at the top of my bucket list, along with learning to cook and play piano. It just seems so damn useful to be able to alter a wardrobe, or to be able to repair something.

This tasseled bag from Sportsgirl is my current obsession, I use it almost everytime I go out. It's actually a decent size for carrying things (for me it's a Sudoku book, the two novels (pictured above) and my chunky wallet) and best of all, it adds a splash of colour to my outfit which is almost always a palette of neutral colours. Not to mention, the leather-ish material it's made from is amazingly soft.

Don't forget: less than a week left for the giveaway!

x

we are stars

2011-11-24T00:19:00.000-08:00

Cardigan and palazzo pants (Sportsgirl) / Black strappy clogs (Rubi shoes) / Thrifted velvet top

I don't know if it's just me, but my awkwardness appears to shine very brightly in these photos. Decided to shoot inside because, as most of you already know, Sydney weather has been a bit down at the moment. I don't mind it too much because it's like all four seasons rolled into one for me (aka wearing all sorts of outfits every week!) but it gets frustrating when it ruins your plans. It would be nice to see some more sun.

Those shoes are so uncomfortable, that I hardly ever wear them - or only wear them to places or events that I know I'll be sitting down for most of the time. But they're still a nice basic kind of shoe, that I might just have to invest in some comfier ones.

Rainy days = gypsy outfits + video games + guitar + books

brightest hour

2011-11-23T03:59:00.000-08:00

model: janika @ chadwick

hair and makeup: emma k.

A small and very quick test shoot I did about a month ago, right after I shot some new designs for LULU IN CHAINS. We were both exhausted, so we probably only spent about 10 minutes shooting before we decided we couldn't be bothered anymore, and that it was too much effort. Mutual laziness.

I went a little off track with the last two photos, and experimented with the editing a bit, but it was fun.

P.S. This was and will be the last test shoot with my 450D! (I think). Loving my new 5D Mark II (even though I know the Mark III is due to be released sometime next year. I couldn't wait). Keep your eyes peeled for short films and lots of test shoots to come. So much in store!

GIVEAWAY: jac5

2011-11-22T19:03:00.000-08:00

I was recently emailed by jac5 and initially had a little chuckle to myself when I saw that it was a luxury men's underwear brand. Nonetheless, I checked out their website, and read the company's description and was impressed to discover that the owner (Jim, whose initials are J.A.C.) has created jac5 with a sense of humour, and is driven by his love for his 5 Jack Russel terriers (geddit?!).

jac5 have just opened their brand new retail concept store in Hong Kong, and 11/11/11 marked their international debut but they already have a solid customer base and support on their facebook and twitter page (links below).

I love the quirky names of jac5's collections: 'Loyal', 'Barking Mad' and 'Super Smart', which all obviously link back to Jim's love for his dogs. Their lookbook is fun, cheeky and has gorgeous lighting. I used to own a Jack Russell a while ago, but I have a soft spot for any type of dogs, so I'm loving the theme of the Jack Russell all throughout the brand.

Since most of my readers are probably female, I know you're probably not going to want to slip into any of their underwear anytime soon but if you have someone you'd like to spoil for Christmas - Dad, male best friend (hm..), boyfriend - then I'm giving away a $35 voucher code courtesy of jac5!

Just like every other giveaway, it's all about shameless promotion, so all you have to do is:

1. follow me on bloglovin' or twitter (or both if you like hehe..)

2. LIKE jac5's facebook page or follow them on twitter!

3. Comment below with your name and email :-)

So there you go, easy right?! The giveaway will end at MIDNIGHT GMT+10 (aka Sydney time) on Friday, 2nd December, so get commenting!

Jysla xx

pheonix

2011-11-05T22:36:00.000-07:00

lace button-up & wedges (TEMT) / skirt (Valleygirl) / necklace/headpiece (Diva)

Sorry for the rushed and small post. I've realised that I can't continue saving drafts of blog posts with the intention of officially posting them because I never end up posting outfits/photoshoots. I'm probably not alone here, but after a few days, I lose interest in an outfit I took pictures of. That's probably attributed to my obsessive compulsive behaviour somehow.. I extremely dislike looking at my old photos and outfits, but I guess we're all our own toughest critic.

Here's a little favourite summer tune of mine, something that has been on repeat for a while:

Pheonix - Girlfriend
This outfit cost $45 excluding the headpiece (which is actually a necklace), and I only just realised how much of a bargain hunter I am as I am typing this. This is the part where I will blame my asian roots blah blah blah but honestly, who could resist a $5 skirt? The only time I would think twice about buying something seemingly too cheap is when the quality has clearly been compromised. My boyfriend would have lost count of the amount of times I have refused to buy something because the buttons on the shirt look tacky. Yep, I said buttons. It makes a huge difference!

Also, I know my blog is looking absolutely horrendous and dull but I do have plans to make it look a little more appealing. Even if I destroy the html code somewhere, I think it would still be an improvement.
EDIT: I made small changes to my blog after months of procrastination! Hooray!

Looking forward to the 3 month break from uni and all the little projects I have planned! Watch this space!

military & lace

2011-10-08T01:21:00.000-07:00

sportsgirl white lace top | chicabooti scallop lace shorts | arvust men's military coat | thrifted knitted vest

first of all, i have to thank my patient boyfriend for putting up with the rain and my fussy directions to get these photos done. it's been getting a little warmer lately despite the rain and dark skies, and it's become the kind of weather that i love - cool enough to layer up, and warm enough for bare legs. i bought the military coat yesterday from general pants (from the men's section) at a bargain price, so be sure to check out their spring sales because i always manage to find something new everytime i go.

i'm not much of a jewellery/accessory person now, but i do wear the occasional ring and pendant here and there. it might be because i go a little crazy sometimes on the combination of textures that jewellery seems overkill.

p.s. sometimes i actually walk around uni with my shoelaces untied (and trip all over them like the classy person i am), but i practically live in boots these days, and am planning on investing in some amazing black and burgundy doc martens.

hardest of hearts

2011-09-09T05:42:00.000-07:00

model: suzi

daydreamer

2011-09-06T01:45:00.000-07:00

sportsgirl back drape top & daisy chain

thrifted maxi skirt

target black boots

shiseido lipstick

These photos were extremely awkward to take because a group of people across the road, from toddlers to adults, were clutching the fence and staring at me. Being the awkward person that I am, I quickly ducked back into my garage and later used the tree to shield me from their curious eyes as I finished taking photos.

My new obsession is this white maxi skirt which I found at an op shop for a few dollars. I am obsessed with maxi skirts, they are perfect in the colder seasons because they shield my legs from the bitter wind, but this white skirt is perfect for warmer weather which means I can keep my love for long skirts going all year round. The Sportsgirl top with the low back kept me cool today in Sydney's humid weather but it kept falling off my puny shoulders.

burn out brighter

2011-09-04T20:38:00.000-07:00

sportsgirl knitted cardigan

long-sleeved white cotton shirt from hong kong markets

black wedges from city beach (for $14!!)
'sunlight bronze' nailpolish by maybelline

I had just begun to set up my tripod, when my boyfriend pulled up in the driveway, so I had him take a few quick shots in my front yard before we headed off. The sun disappeared a few times but it was so warm that I had to take off my jacket right after shooting. I love the warmth of spring but at the same time, I'm dreading the sticky humid days where you just want to cut off all your hair and burn your thick socks. I get pretty lazy in summer and just wear my high-waisted shorts with boots but my challenge this season is to wear more colours.

I bought the book in the last picture simply because of the gorgeous front cover, and didn't even bother to read the blurb in the back. I now have something to read on the hour and half trip to uni, but after reading Pride and Prejudice, everything appears to pale in comparison to Jane Austen's writing.

FYI, my hair is always pinned back (which I hate so much) because my fringe is still growing out, and I cringe every morning because I'm the kind of person that just gets out of bed without bothering to do my hair, because it's so heavy that it just stays straight most of the time. I can't really play around with different hairstyles without using a LOT of bobby pins or hairspray, because little stubborn flyaway strands manage to stay on my face.

x

Nasty Gal

2011-08-30T03:00:00.000-07:00

I want to buy every single piece from this gorgeous online store. Not only are the pictures so well taken but they're styled so sweetly with bright pink lipstick and hats. With so many pieces in the affordable range, how could anyone resist from updating their wardrobe with a few from 'Nasty Gal'?

My favourite is definitely the adorable cut-out dress with the collar.

Jysla x

with a boy like you

2011-08-24T02:16:00.000-07:00

mum's leather jacket from hong kong

cotton jumper with back detail from @topshop (a small store that pretends to be topshop)

hat from myer

lace up boots from ice

I managed to snap a few pictures of my outfit today as soon as I got home from uni in the last few minutes before the sun disappeared. I never thought it was possible to wear something so comfortable in winter, but Sydney was so lovely today that even the breeze was welcoming. Wearing minimal colours as usual, but I'll never grow out of my greys, blacks, cremes and whites. I'm trying to add a bit more colour into my wardrobe as the weather gets warmer (note the use of 'try' because I am so stubborn) but I've put a limit on the amount of shopping I do for the next few months because it's about time I invest in a new camera and lens. Perfect timing too, because a sudden influx of jobs just came my way, but it's going to take so much self control not to go on a wild shopping spree.

I couldn't (and didn't have time to) find my remote today, so I was frustrated trying to manually focus on some random spot on the ground and running to the wrong identical patch of grass too far to the right. Not to mention that my neighbours think that I am the strangest person on the street because I don't think they could see the camera behind the car... only me running around in my front yard every 10 seconds.

If you're from sydney, I hope you're loving this weather just as much as I am!

wildfire

2011-08-21T04:56:00.000-07:00

model: monique @ elite

make-up: alison borg

hair: fervid facade

Even though I should have been doing my assignment, here are the final photos from today. It was a freezing Sunday with occasional periods of sunshine (and rain) but the stunning Monique battled through it all. I had lots of fun with styling this shoot too, with all clothing from both mine and Monique's wardrobe, including a shimmery Asos top, sheer maxi Sportsgirl skirt and therapy shoes. It feels so good to get back into shooting after being away from it for so long, but expect plenty more to come! (After I finish my assignment).

fire in the bloodstream

2011-08-01T01:23:00.000-07:00

i rushed home from uni, and was lucky enough to catch the last hour of sunlight for self portraits. dog walkers and baby strollers passed by and everyone stared curiously at the girl twirling and running back and forth. (spot the remote!). i didn't realise until typing up the description of each piece of clothing, that i happened to wear two pieces from ICE. hey, before you judge, it's not my favourite store but i always believe you can find a few treasures in between the racks and racks of excessively tight and revealing metallic or shimmery dresses. clearly i'm a lover of bargains, and as a consequence, my wardrobe is slowly building up to an incredibly ridiculous mountain pile of fabrics.

i want to set up a small online store on facebook (or on here..) where i can sell my clothes, and use the money to buy.... more clothes! my mum is getting angrier and angrier each day. i don't seem to see the problem with having 3 wardrobes. as long as you don't open it, you won't be strangled by piles of clothes.

p.s. please don't mind my horrible nails, i really need to repaint them. i'm on the hunt for some quirky colours to add a splash of something-other-than-black/grey/white to my outfit. a sky blue or fairy floss pink?

p.p.s. I LOVE THAT HAT. i have tried on a gazillion different hats, and they all looked funny with my face and head. but this one is perfect and it was so heavily discounted...score!

tied to me.

2011-07-30T08:41:00.000-07:00

forever21 boots | mum's high waisted shorts | grandma's lace top | esq jacket

it was a warm day today, and although this is my casual, sunny, lazy weekend outfit (that i wouldn't normally post about) i had to proudly photograph my new black jacket. i wish i found this perfect piece earlier in winter! it is so perfect, warm and big enough, to throw over multiple layers of clothing without the annoying problem of bunching sleeves and awkward bulk. i found it on sale for $25 at a small asian-owned retail store called 'esq design' and haven't stopped wearing it since! it's so good to have a jacket i can finally wear over my jumpers minus the bulgy arm look.

p.s. i accidentally missed a look (if you noticed from lookbook) so that'll be the next post, sorry i'm forgetful!

giveability

2011-07-25T20:40:00.000-07:00

i assisted the beautiful zanita the other week in shooting nicole from gary pepper vintage for a great cause, which you must read about here. (click the link for zanita's photos)

i had lots of fun shooting all the celebrity donated pieces (including the $1500 alexander mcqueen shoes... woah). we roamed around the city, nicole barefoot, in amazing weather, and shot in taxis that were more than willing to park and let us shoot for as long as we wanted (we even saw kyle sandilands trying to look discrete at a cafe).

faerie

2011-07-15T01:09:00.000-07:00

i have beautiful friends. i have beautiful followers.
a small picture post, a small step forward.

guns and horses

2011-07-03T23:39:00.000-07:00

guns and horses - ellie goulding

valleygirl blouse | thrifted levi shorts & burgundy shawl/cardigan

the weather was so nice today... makes me so much more excited for spring! the warm weather was enough of an excuse for me to wear my $3 levi shorts (bargain, right?!) that i was lucky enough to find at newtown markets. my favourite colour this season is burgundy, so it's bold change from my usual greys, whites and blacks (and sometimes, you'll spot me wearing pastel pinks and creams).

this is my first fashion post on this blog, and it's a simple, casual style that i wear often when i'm heading to the local shops or my boyfriend's house. i'm big on bargain shopping, and i appreciate the style of a piece of clothing over its label, so you won't see me wearing big name brands all that often. that said, i'm super passionate about fashion, and i love to layer, and experiment. i had originally wanted to create a separate blog for my look posts, but decided it was easier to combine it with my photography blog so that i would update more regularly, so i apologise to my current followers who don't enjoy these kinds of posts!

i'm going to try so hard to post looks regularly! (p.s. photos will be taken by my boyfriend) x

so darkness i became

2011-07-01T01:33:00.000-07:00

cosmic love - florence and the machine

part 2 of 2 posts of photos from the same roll of memories i developed yesterday.

(above taken by my boyfriend)

apple of my eye

2011-06-25T03:42:00.000-07:00

home - edward sharpe & the magnetic zeros

part 1 of 2 posts of photos from the same roll of memories i developed yesterday.

skinny love

2011-06-23T01:59:00.000-07:00

skinny love - birdy

daydreamer

2011-06-19T02:49:00.000-07:00

designer: chelle carter

in love with this amazing dress that i was lucky enough to photograph.

this is one of the few shoots i've done in the past 6 months but i needed a break to figure out myself and try to get back to doing what i love. i've strayed too far from my own style because of what people expected from me, but even though i do this for the world, i need to take photos for myself too.

i am a very, very ordinary girl with a normal camera who loves shooting in the shadows of the burning summer sun and faceless photos that tell more than they show. hopefully over the next few weeks, that'll show in my photos. i'll be getting back into my usual self portraits so that i can be at the heart of my photography, and maintain the balance that had been gone for a long time.

praktica/holga

2011-05-14T21:59:00.000-07:00

some film pictures from my praktica and my holga.

i haven't had a photoshoot in god knows how long, i am too caught up with using film to photograph my day-to-day life. there's something beautiful and strangely nostalgic about film photos that i am addicted to.

feature: tracy zhang

2011-05-14T04:27:00.000-07:00

this artist has a lovely collection of little treasures, particularly her street photos. her flickr here.

lookbook

2010-12-31T22:06:00.000-08:00

keep documenting and photographing and loving and smiling.

happy new year!!

i love you all, thank you for everything x

midnight playground

2010-11-12T01:44:00.000-08:00

july editorial for turn magazine.

long overdue blog post, big love to anyone who remembers me x

marie & phillip

2010-08-18T00:17:00.000-07:00

http://www.flickr.com/photos/thedyingswans/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/thegirlwhotamedthetiger/

photos that make me want to run away from school and reality with a camera in one hand, holding his hand in the other.

clouds and rabbit holes

2010-08-15T23:02:00.000-07:00

a little voice, inside, always repeated: never look down, never look back, stay in the present, never plan, never dream, avoid pain, be realistic, life always gives you lemons.

'logic' and 'common sense' doesn't agree with my heart. it doesn't matter if it doesn't make sense, because it feels right. it doesn't matter if nobody else understands why, or how. it matters who the dreams are created with, and the wispy, invisible strings that guide me through life. 

no, it's not the same as yours, it's not what i envisioned.

it's real, it's here and it's forever. i sleep on clouds, and i crawl down rabbit holes towards a fairytale, a movie, a never-ending story. it moves like dripping green tea ice-cream down my chin, and smells like sunkissed skin, and looks like the silence of the night in your bright eyes, and sounds like summer dancing on the dashboard.

it's the endless flickering of photographs behind open eyelids that tell a story of the past, and the future and remind us. right here, right now.

x

you'll miss me, mademoiselle

2010-08-12T06:35:00.000-07:00

it's been a while but i finally got around to editing the rest of this shoot post-exams (as of today. did i hear celebration?). it's a little different to what i usually do but change can be good.

hope you're all doing well,

never say never

2010-05-27T03:19:00.000-07:00

an old shoot i just realised i never uploaded ♥

b for ballerina

2010-05-27T01:37:00.000-07:00

honey lips and sweet memories

2010-05-21T03:31:00.000-07:00

hello world, it's been a while.

i hope you have all been well, and happy and in love <3

this is all i have for now (big big big big sincere apology). i've been meaning to take self-portraits to make up for it but i can't seem to make enough effort or find time! i'll get around to it sooooon hopefully.

photo above was taken a month ago at a concert i went to and couldn't help but capture a quick snap of these lovely girls standing so still and serenely in front of me. they were like that for a good 20 minutes at least.

i promise good news is on its way and once school releases it's grip on me i should have more photos up soon.

i love you all x

bloom. biker. baby. (you are beautiful)

2010-04-22T01:45:00.001-07:00

we are all beautiful - our imperfections are our perfections. beauty is within - it shines in the hearts of the good. i hate to think that my photos make people feel insecure. i want to make people feel that they can achieve anything and their dreams aren't as far away as they think.

"for beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone" -- audrey hepburn

do not ever wish you would be better or more beautiful if you were taller, prettier, smarter, skinnier.... you are perfect just the way you are. to be beautiful - start on the inside. it would be hard for young girls, teenagers and women to not want to look like the model in the glossy picture.... but models are models... and you are you.

being a model is a job, a career - models are beautiful but do not epitomise the complete definition of 'beauty'.

i have beautiful friends who make me laugh and keep me smiling and happy.

i have beautiful followers of my work who support and love and give without getting anything in return.
i have a beautiful mum, who despite not supporting my passions and dreams, has always been there for me - and has done an amazing job raising my sister and i on her own.

i look beyond the skin and see into your kind, loving and generous heart. do not be afraid to be different - because different is unique and unique is beautiful.

a dreamt reality

2010-04-11T02:20:00.000-07:00

pictures taken a few hours ago, on the way home from a photoshoot. i was (literally) blinded by the sunset but it was honestly so beautiful. the way it lights up everything makes it appear surreal. i try to take the time, now and then, to stop and absorb life - appreciating the world that we take for granted.

inspiration: http://jtrotti.blogspot.com/2010/04/so-we-were-driving-through-countryside.html

that blog post by julia trotti is really quite beautiful, if you haven't seen it already... you're missing out!

"i like taking photos from car windows, you don't have time to think about what you're taking a photo of, no time to change your settings or to compose something perfect. you take photos of the world flying past you and don't have time to think about it, so they come out exactly as it is, imperfect but beautiful. they are a memory and they are rushed but also take time. running past, but standing still."

love,
jysla x

watching life in slow motion

2010-04-06T06:16:00.000-07:00

sorry i didn't quite get around to taking those pictures i promised. i don't usually take self-portraits when my family are home (unless they are preoccupied for a while) because my mum freaks out and interrogates me when i do. so - just my luck - she was home and was constantly on the move.

ah, well... the idea has been written down so i'll get around to it soon hopefully.

i went on a little city roaming trip today and relaxed by the water fountain watching 'mr incredibubble' (that was really what he called himself) and listened to a busker playing the saxophone (so so so lovely and soothing) and the sounds of gushing water.

and i also tweeted about this little girl i met who was so unlike other children at the park. instead of running around (like children often do), she was staring at the people walking past and lounging by the water fountain near us. she constantly smoothed, then messed up her hair and at one point she curled up into a small ball and closed her eyes. i took an instant liking to her, and she told me her name was 'alexandria'. i took a few pictures of her while she was caught up in her own little world and she was so distracted that she didn't even realise. luckily, her mother didn't mind!

ooft, that's enough talking from me... hope everyone had a peaceful day (and night... unlike mine).

love,

jysla x

journey

2010-04-03T05:21:00.000-07:00

two blog posts in one night, i hear you ask? ...somebody's got a lot of time on their hands *cough*

sorry for the fashion-focused self-portraits if you don't like that sort of thing, but i'm combining my passions and having a hell of a good time along the way. if you haven't stalked me yet (heh, only kidding), i've had lookbook since november last year but have only started using it properly recently.

red lipstick... check.
natural backlight... check.
remote....check.

question of the post: what are your passions? (no matter how weird, or cliche)

(mine: guitar, photography, dancing, fashion, reading)
i was always ambitious, even when i was a little girl - i had big dreams. i wanted to be a princess, then a mermaid (the little mermaid) and then a kick-ass warrior (mulan). okay you got me i still do. but i have slightly more realistic dreams. i've tried drawing, painting, sculpting, designing, writing, cooking, singing, acting... and i'm pretty sucky at all of them. but trying new things (and taking risks) is all a part of the journey, and the worst thing isn't regretting what you did... but regretting what you never did (i think that's a quote from somewhere that i subconsciously memorised so that i sound wise...did it work?).

anyway...more photos tomorrow hopefully, hope you're not sick of me yet!

love,
jysla x

lonely hearts are blue

2010-04-02T23:22:00.000-07:00

it is the same shape as yours. beats a little out of time, a little irregular, but has its highs and lows all the same. it is well hidden, beneath smiling lips, and sad eyes, hidden to those unaware. it does not understand the world, does not understand itself, does not understand other hearts that are red, and blooming, and thriving with love. it beats quietly, it doesn't want to disturb others. the lonely blue heart is wrapped in bubble wrap and held up with thin, fragile strings that stretch and sway with each -bum bum- -bum bum- -bum bum-....

i am live, and i breathe. and i am unusually peaceful.

love,

jysla x

oh starry eyes

2010-03-26T01:39:00.000-07:00

i'm starry eyed, and full of dreams and heartache and longing. i'm fragile and breakable. the sky is not the limit, i aim for the heavens - beyond the galaxies, endless light years away. i believe in happiness and love.

i am heading in a different direction, and i may lose support along the way but i'm walking towards where i need and completely want to be. i'm learning that mistakes are okay, and each one is a lesson. i don't regret, and i'm letting go.

i hope you enjoyed this photo story. best served with hot tea.

love,
jysla x

lace sweet lace

2010-03-14T23:43:00.000-07:00

my first self mini-series. i can't get over how incredibly creepy i look and like i'm about to kill someone in that white top picture.

it's not really the photoshoot i promised you but i wanted to do something other than study for an exam (which is tomorrow morning, but let's not think of that).

p.s. i have the prettiest light in my bathroom!

love,
jysla x

early spring cleaning

2010-03-09T22:48:00.000-08:00

this blog will have it's 'official introduction' (i.e. the first proper post) after my photoshoot in a few weeks.

i have a few ideas i've been dying to create that will mark the beginning of my fresh start. i'm breaking my barriers, and pushing myself harder than ever before. i'm beginning to understand what i want and what i am aiming to achieve.

to my few lovely, amazing, followers - i am forever-grateful for your support and patience.

i can't even begin to explain how much it means to me <3

looking forward to the future! i'm not looking back,

JYSLA KAY X