Denim DIY Inspiration - Jazz Up Your Jeans

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DIY denim was a massive trend in the 90s, and has since made an epic comeback. In order to make the most of this fun fad, here are Soviet’s top suggestions for transforming your old jeans into a real feast for the eyes.


Lace

Add a delicate, feminine touch to your favourite pair of jeans with some lace. While it might take a while to achieve the look as pictured above, if you’re aiming for something a little more subtle, it should be a relatively simple experiment overall. Visit Youtube and search ‘DIY Lace Jeans’ for a multitude of video tutorials that should help streamline the process.


Patchwork


This quirky trend is probably the easiest to embrace - even inexperienced DIYers will manage to pull it off. All that you will need is a few pieces of pretty material (navy blue patterns work best; however, if you want to make a statement, feel free to go as colourful as you’d like!), some scissors, thread and a needle. Easy-peasy!


Fabric Paint



For those who have an artistic flair, this DIY fad is sure to be right up your alley. It’s quite simple, really. Just grab some fabric paint from your local art store and let your creativity take over! One thing’s for sure: your jeans are going to be truly one-of-a-kind by the time you’re done with them.


Rhinestones


Bling-bling is still in… and so are rhinestones. Dazzle your denims by gluing a few sparkly delights all over your trusty jeans - and don’t be shy! The shinier, the better.

Need a new pair of stylish denims? Take a look at the latest Soviet selection here: http://www.zando.co.za/women/soviet/

Everything You Need to Know about Rocking Skinny Jeans

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Skinny jeans have been immensely popular since the early 00s, and show no signs of going out of fashion any time soon! Here are Soviet’s top tips for rocking this timeless look, regardless of where you are going.

Choose One Statement Piece

Seeing as though your skinny jeans will make a big statement all on their own, it is advisable that you put the rest of your outfit together wisely, choosing only one additional item that will stand out. For instance, if you opt to wear sky-high, colourful heels, then wear muted jewellery and a plain T-shirt or blouse. If you opt for a patterned T-shirt or blouse, pair it with neutral pumps or sneakers. Finally, if your jewellery is attention-grabbing, keep the rest of your outfit as simple as possible.


Choose Your Skinny Jeans According to Your Body Type

The unwritten rule that states ‘not everybody should wear skinny jeans’ is a total myth. Everyone has the ability to rock a pair of skinny jeans, as long as they know what works best for their unique body shape. The secret is to shop around extensively before you buy - and only fork out the cash when you find a pair that makes you feel as great as you look!


Don’t Be Afraid of High-Waisted Designs 

High-waisted skinnies are extremely trendy at the moment. However, many find them slightly intimidating and a massive style challenge. Luckily, styling high-waisted skinnies is really easy if you know what you’re doing. When it comes to pairing other items with these statement jeans, we recommend giving crop tops, button-down shirts (tucked in so as to enhance the shape of your waist), cropped sweaters and edgy leather jackets a try. Feel free to experiment!

Now that you know how to rock them, if you would like to invest in a new, fashion-forward pair of skinny jeans, be sure to visit Zando and take a look at the latest Soviet selection: http://www.zando.co.za/women/soviet/

The Best Materials to Wear to Stay Cool in Summer

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Rayon

Rayon is a trusted companion when the weather is hot, but seeing as though it is a semi-synthetic material and is not as absorbent as most of its natural counterparts, it is best worn on those days that promise lower levels of humidity, hence less perspiration.

Chiffon

Just as delicately beautiful as silk, chiffon also has the added benefit of being a slightly more absorbent and breathable fabric all-round, making it the perfect choice for balmy spring and summer afternoons.

Soviet’s Tip: Extend the life of your favourite chiffon items by washing them by hand instead of laundering in the machine.

Cotton


Cotton is arguably the most popular summer fabric. Lightweight, affordable, and ensuring the ultimate in breathability, it is the number one choice for a day spent outdoors. It is versatile in that it will help keep you cool during those scorching days, regardless of the presence of humidity or lack thereof.

Soviet’s Tip: In order to preserve the lifespan of your favourite cotton garments, be sure to hang them on the washing line to dry as opposed to using a tumble-dryer which could cause them to shrink over time.

Linen

Another lightweight, breezy fabric, linen is often used to manufacture summer dresses and blouses. The only downfall is that it has the tendency to wrinkle more than most other summer-friendly fabrics - luckily, this can be easily remedied. If you aren’t a fan of ironing, just keep a spray bottle filled with water handy. Spritz some water onto the garment and flatten out obvious creases with your hands.

Lace


Lace is a timeless fabric that boasts plenty of summer appeal. Along with being delicate and breezy, it is also very trendy right now and will effortlessly add a dash of femininity to any outfit.

Denim

Most people are under the impression that denim is too heavy to be a suitable summer fabric. However, this depends on the type of denim that you choose to wear. Why not invest in a pair of stylish denim shorts? Or perhaps a fashionable mid-calf design? You can even wear your favourite full-length jeans if you plan the rest of your outfit strategically - sandals, cotton t-shirt / crop top etc. Make no mistake… denim is, and always will be, a fabric that will see you through all seasons!

Fashion Faux-pas Everybody was Guilty of in the 2000s

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These velvety, colourful tracksuits were originally popular way back in the 70s, and were dragged back into the spotlight by many a celebrity in the early 00s - most notably, Paris Hilton. While they were indeed comfortable, it is safe to say that they were also a bit of an eye-sore. Here’s hoping that we don’t have to worry about another velour tracksuit revival for at least 30 more years!

Trend Alert: Moms and Tots Matching Outfits

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While it certainly isn’t a new trend, it seems to be gaining more and more popularity as the years go by - we’re talking about moms and tots matching outfits, otherwise known as ‘twinning’. The trend revolves around dressing your little one in a similar outfit to the one that you’re wearing, thus creating an adorable ‘mini-me’ who is certain to be the centre of attention wherever you go. If you have yet to get in on the trend, Soviet has some tips for you, along with some delightful visual inspiration: ‘twinning’ moms and tots from around the globe.



Tip #1: In order to pull it off, contrary to popular belief, you don’t actually need outfits that look exactly the same. Work with what you have - even basic colour co-ordination, or wearing similar patterns, can make quite the statement!



Tip #2: Why not have a bit of fun and buy matching costumes? Even if you only wear those outfits at home when nobody’s looking, your little one will love playing dress-up with mommy - and you’re sure to get a few priceless photos out of the experience too!


Tip #3: Check out Zando for the latest Soviet summer range. We have a broad variety of options for both kids and adults, so you’re bound to find a few ‘twinning’ essentials both online or in-store!

Embracing Casual Chic on Braai Day

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It’s National Braai Day on Saturday, the 24th of September, which means that most of us will be spending the day outdoors in the sun, laughing, and making memories with our nearest and dearest in front of a proudly South African braai fire. Knowing this, the last thing that you want to be is over-dressed or uncomfortable… introducing casual chic - the style based on looking cool, calm and collected, yet still fiercely stylish and bang-on trend all at the same time. In order to provide you with some inspiration when it comes time to choose your own casual-chic outfit for this special occasion, here is a fashionable outfit selection, as recommended by the Soviet team…

Comfortable Slogan T-Shirt



A comfy slogan T-shirt is the essence of casual-chic. If black isn’t really your vibe, feel free to experiment with a splash or two of colour. It is spring, after all!

Capri-Style Denims


Capri-style denims are perfect for a day spent outdoors - still fashionable, yet lighter and cooler than a traditional pair of full-length jeans.

Trendy Sneakers


Classic Soviet sneakers will add an edge to your look, and provide you with the comfort necessary to enjoy your day to the fullest.

Glam, Everyday Handbag


The handbag will add the ‘chic’ element to your casual-chic outfit. Muted colours, as pictured above, are extremely fashionable at the moment.

Bling-Bling Watch


Complete your look with a watch guaranteed to make a statement. The more bling-bling, the better!

Happy Braai Day to all of our followers! Make sure you enjoy it the Proudly South African way.

Soviet's Top 5 Fashion-Forward Instagram Accounts

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Can’t get enough of fashion? No worries - Soviet has selected our top 5 fashion-forward Instagram accounts for your viewing pleasure. Let us know your favourites in the comments section below.

Eva Chen @evachen212



As Instagram’s head of fashion, Eva Chen deserves a spot on every fashionista's Instagram feed. She posts videos from the hottest catwalk shows, along with her own style inspiration and outfit choices, all of which are a real feast for the eyes!

RS Theory @rstheory



If you’re looking for something edgy and different, this is where you’ll find it. Patrick, the brain behind the RS Theory Instagram page, takes ordinary fashion pics and spices them up with quirky backgrounds. His artsy touch makes for some interesting creations - style inspo at its finest!

Maria Dueñas Jacobs @mduenasjacobs



Maria is an accessories director for a popular magazine in the US, so it goes without saying that her images are always bang-on trend. If you’re looking for inspiration on matching accessories with your favourite outfits, this is the woman to follow.

Mert Alas @mertalas



Mert is a talented fashion photographer who provides his followers with an insider’s view into the heart of style and fashion around the globe.


Zanna Roberts Rassi @zannarassi



Zanna is a well-known fashion correspondent, entrepreneur and editor. Her individualistic approach to fashion is evident the moment you visit her Instagram page. Stay tuned for a look into her everyday life, style favourites and all things that keep her inspired.

Feeling inspired to update your wardrobe with the latest trends? Be sure to check out the new Soviet spring / summer collection here: http://www.zando.co.za/women/soviet/

Live Your Dreams in Our Jeans

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Soviet is very excited to announce that our Live Your Dreams in Our Jeans campaign is officially live!



No matter where you come from, who you are or where your passions lie, we all have dreams… Aspirations that give us direction and make life worth living. With our Live Your Dreams in Our Jeans campaign, we hope to inspire our customers to carry on dreaming.



After all, the Soviet brand and products provide you with everything that you need in order to do what you love in both comfort and style.



Be sure to keep an eye out for our new Spring / Summer inspired range of clothing… and live your dreams in our jeans! ( http://www.sovietdenim.com/ )

5 Facts about Miss South Africa 2016, Ntandoyenkosi Kunene

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Crowned on the 19th of March 2016, Ntandoyenkosi Kunene, is the gorgeous Miss SA who everyone is talking about. Here are five fast facts about the 23-year-old, Mpumalanga-born local beauty that you probably didn’t know.



She Has a Quirky Fashion Sense

Ntandoyenkosi doesn’t believe that her sense of style falls into one specific category. Instead, she describes her fashion sense as an equal mixture between edgy and girly, depending on her mood.

She’s an Entrepreneur

If you thought that our Miss SA was little more than a pretty face, think again! This young lady is actually also a budding entrepreneur. She opened her own company in 2014 and has big plans for the establishment in the near future. Watch this space!

She Has Participated in Many Beauty Pageants

Considering how stunning and loveable Ms Kunene is, it doesn’t come as much of a surprise to find out that she has participated in many other beauty pageants before Miss SA. Some of these pageants included Miss Mamelodi Sundowns Gauteng 2012 (which she won), and Miss Earth South Africa 2012 (in which she was a finalist).

She’s a Qualified Teacher

Ntandoyenkosi has an honours degree in education under her belt – which she obtained from the University of Witwatersrand, and completed in 2015.

She Loves Soviet

Miss SA 2016 adores her Soviet denim, and even graced the Soviet team with her presence at the Soviet store in the new Mall of Africa, and at the Soviet head office in Midrand.


Want to keep up to date with Ntandoyenkosi? Be sure to follow her on Facebook and Twitter.

Soviet Springtime Essentials for 2016

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Spring is in the air – which means that it’s time for a wardrobe overhaul! Here are Soviet’s springtime essentials that you simply cannot afford to miss out on.



Skinny Jeans

What would spring be without a well-fitted pair of skinny jeans that can be dressed up as well as down? We recommend a sexy, yet comfortable pair that epitomises ‘comfy-chic’. Remember to opt for a lighter shade of denim if you’re after a classic spring-inspired look.

Classy Black Top

While the Little Black Dress is well-known for being a wardrobe essential, a classy black top is just as important. Invest in a fashionable, fitted design that you know best complements your body type and personal style – and pair with your sexiest pair of skinny jeans.

Classic White Tee

A classic white tee is a wardrobe essential regardless of the season. Not only does it look amazing when paired with jeans, but it is also sure to keep you feeling cool and refreshed as the weather gets warmer.

Patterned Tops and Vibrant Accessories

After a chilly winter full of muted colours, it is time to let loose and embrace all sorts of patterns and daring designs. Remember to choose one aspect of your outfit, such as your top or your pants, and get creative, whilst leaving the other aspects of your look as understated as possible.

Floral Dresses

A cute floral dress is the true essence of spring! Opt for a floor length maxi dress or an adorable mini – either way, you’re sure to turn heads wherever you go.

Pretty Sandals

You’ve been hiding your tootsies away in cosy sneakers and boots throughout the winter months, now that spring is here, it’s time to show them off in some pretty sandals that are as comfortable as they are stylish.

¾ Length Jeans

If the weather is slightly too warm for your favourite pair of skinnies or high-waisted denims, why not opt for a fashion-forward pair of ¾ boyfriend jeans? Not only do they look great, but they are also a lot more weather appropriate and perfect to wear when enjoying traditional day-time activities, such as picnics or bike riding. Really rock the look by pairing your ¾ length jeans with a comfy pair of Soviet sneakers and a tank top – a springtime look that will always be in style!


For more stunning springtime must-haves, be sure to visit your nearest clothing retailer and stock up on Soviet’s latest and greatest pieces.

3 Fashion Vloggers You Need to Follow

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There is nothing more exciting than having fun with fashion and drawing inspiration from far and wide. For those who enjoy shopping for new looks, or flipping through the pages of fashion magazines admiring celebrities and wishing you could pull off the same outfit / makeup, we have three suggestions for specific fashion vloggers to follow. Here are Soviet’s top picks…

Zoella




From outfit diaries to seasonal make-up tutorials, Zoella’s YouTube channel has it all. This stylish Brit has been in the fashion vlogging game since 2009 when she was just 19, and now, 7 years later, she has over 11 million subscribers. So, what’s to love about this fashionista with the pale skin, super long hair and gorgeous smile? Her modesty and gentle nature, of course. While she lets her followers know all about her favourite looks and fashion tips, she is actually a massive ambassador for encouraging self-expression and finding one’s own, unique sense of style. Besides that, she’s simply adorable – it’s practically impossible not to love her.

You can follow Zoella on YouTube here.

For more, be sure to check out her Instagram page, too.

Arika Sato 




Arika is a self-confessed fashion and beauty addict, and she is known for her versatile YouTube Channel that contains videos about all things relevant to the two things that she loves the most. From fun fitness tips to seasonal LookBooks and shopping sprees, this vlogger really does it all. Her style is just as versatile as her channel, so if you love both comfy streetwear and glamorous gowns, Arika might just be the fashion inspo that you’ve been searching for.

Follow her on YouTube.

And don’t forget to check out her Instagram page.

Samantha Maria




Samantha Maria is famous for her YouTube LookBooks and style-specific fashion tips (check out this video for helpful tips on how to pull off the ‘Clean, Classy & Put-Together’ look, for example). Considering the fact that she is actually a fashion styling graduate, you can rest assured that her tips and pieces of advice are sure to be bang-on-trend every time.

Follow her YouTube Channel here.

You can also find her on Instagram.

For more style inspiration, why not treat yourself to an indulgent online shopping spree? Check out what Soviet has to offer you today: http://www.zando.co.za/women/soviet/