It’s not just black and white.
It’s practically everything in between.
I don’t recall what led to it precisely but the other day, someone asked whether I viewed the world in black and white. What an immensely interesting question. Particularly given the timing, and current state of things. Without rehashing what’s been playing out in my life of late (you can read about it here and here), it’s safe to say that change has been dominating the scene. Rather like a zephyr sweeping across the horizon, creating patterns in the landscape, swiftly moving from side to side, and everything in between.
And that is why my response was that I’ve gone from viewing the world in greyscale (with certain moments in subtle shades, like a two-colour process) to now experiencing everything in full technicolour wonder.
I T' S E X H I L A R A T I N G
And it’s been in the simplest of things too.
Consuming garlic, for one. Or working out at the oddest of hours whether it’s because that’s the only time I can, or simply because I feel like it. Dressing as I please, be it a midriff (or lace bra) baring ensemble, or something which makes my legs look as though they go on for miles (best sort of camouflage ever).
Indeed, the world now presents itself in a wondrous kaleidoscope of colours that spans the gamut from pastel and dreamy to rich and creamy, and everything in between including, yes, black and white and all permutations of grey.
What a wonderful world it is.
Notice also how that visual transition has manifested itself in the outfits I’ve presented here on the blog.
Notice how it’s veered from black with pops of sunny side up yellow to feminine pink and, as seen here today, in-your-face red. Peppered with browns and rusts and oranges and (although you can’t quite see it) yellows too. There’s also black, but of course, to stay authentic and grounded.
C O L O U R H A S C H A N G E D M Y N A R R A T I V E S
Without a doubt, seeing things through rainbow-infused lenses has completely affected the way in which I am telling my stories.
It has changed my visual narratives.
And, if I am to be completely truthful, it’s rather intoxicating.
I believe you can see just how heady a rush to the senses that onslaught of colours is, my friends, in my interpretation of plaid this month for our monthly installment of The Fab 40s.
We’ve done this trend before, yes, but I’m a firm believer of there never being too much of a good thing. And clearly plaid is a good thing. A really good thing as clearly evidenced here, here and here. Weathering many things including hair colour as well as weight fluctuations GRIN
Scroll down. Take a look at our individual renditions of plaid.
Tell me what you think.
Mary, Curly Byrdie Chirps
Mary is most certainly a woman after my own heart, mixing plaid with fierce red. Her dress with those (covetable) ankle boots and beret are absolute bang for the buck. The thing I adore most about her outfit? That crazy riot of curls which makes up her hair SIGH
Suzy, Suzy Turner
Although it visually makes no sense, time and again Suzy reminds me of Pocahontas. That determined spirit and quiet elegance. Her look is no exception. I suspect the suede and fringe have a thing or two to do with said vibe but Suzy looks so fierce here. J’adore.
Jennie, A Pocketful Of Polka Dots
Given Jennie’s love (read: obsession with) for polka dots, I was half expecting to see her pair them with plaid. But, as we all know, the hallmark of a truly stylish person is the ability to present the unexpected, and the lady does it most eloquently this month.
Shelbee, Shelbee On The Edge
My adoration for Shelbee is no secret. Her insightful words. Her authenticity. Just her. Lately, however, the admiration I’ve always had for her has been growing exponentially from a sartorial perspective. Just look at this wild and wacky wonder of an outfit!!!! LOVE.
Now, do join me in welcoming Canesha of Crowned Canesha, our guest blogger for September. Whilst her blog and style viewpoint are fairly new to me, I’ve no doubt I will be a new fan. Especially because of the various topics she writes about. Click here. Also here. And definitely here too, and you’ll understand what I mean. Thank you so very much for being a part of our little style rendezvous this month, Canesha, you can certainly count on me being a frequent visitor to your space from hereon. By the by, those pants are gorgeous.
And then there’s me.
In my riot of plaid. And stripes. And colour.
Plaid Coat Dress worn open (purchased in Kuching ) | Striped Blouse, Plaid Pants & Yellow Ombré Sunnies (New York & Co) | Heels (Cicihot)
That’s it, friends.
Pretty in plaid.
Posing in plaid.
Posting in plaid.
Which is your fave plaid look?
Love, Sheela
p/s I link up here.
Sheela Goh 
Sheela, I am literally dying over how fabulous this outfit is! Every single detail. The plaids, the stripes, the killer shoes, the bared midriff. Brilliant, as always, and maybe more than usual! Thanks so much for your always kind words and for inviting me to join this fabulous group! I do feel wild, wacky, and quite wonderful in my mix of plaids, camo, florals, and Wonder Woman!
Shelbee
http://www.shelbeeontheedge.com
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Your combination works very well! Have a great week!
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You are blossoming into a color girl….I knew it could happen!!
I call it evolution…and that’s a good thing.
XOXO
Jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
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Such a divine pattern mix!! You’re so chic and gorgeous!
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I love this outfit Sheela! A lot. Can I copy! And ooh la la! So svelte!! Is the belly tattoo new? I don’t recall it….but goodness, that would be a painful spot. One more testament to how strong you are.
Looks like I have some catching up to do with your inserted links. I’m off.
I missed you guys this Monday.
Love, Annie
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This is a great outfit, very stylish and the shoes are fabulous!
Happy day xx
https://4highheelsfans.wordpress.com/2018/09/19/ai-ai-ai-caramba/
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Ha! I have found this interesting because I have been playing with colour and have increasingly been tempted towards nudes and neutrals, except the odd pop. Love this celebration of expression. I am in love with your outfit – but it is the way you wear it that makes it really fabulous! xx Maria
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Sheela, as always you look freaking incredible! All of these photos are worthy of Vogue magazine – the cover! I love the shoes – I do wish I could wear such high heels but my feet and my lower back told me to stop some time ago sigh.
I love that you’re seeing the world in a wonderful multitude of colour these days. I must confess, I do have to remind myself sometime to do the same. And when I do, it always makes me smile. Just as you do every time I see your pictures.
Hugs
Suzy xxx
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I always admire your incredible, bold style! I never would have thought to put those patterns together but you are rocking them!
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Fabulous as always Sheela! I love the mix of prints and those gorgeous sandals! Thanks for linking up!
Emma xxx
http://www.style-splash.com
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“And that is why my response was that I’ve gone from viewing the world in greyscale (with certain moments in subtle shades, like a two-colour process) to now experiencing everything in full technicolour wonder.”
A new perspective, a renewed outlook. It is almost like you are saying that you have been given another chance at life.
Reading your blogs has been a type of therapy for me, the perfect doses of encouragement, hope and resiliency. Although I am a man, and your posts focus on female empowerment and discovery… I still find them able to empower and motivate me in my own journey of self discovery. Sometimes, the things you “have to say”, are sobering as well. Hard truths and a quick reminder that life is in fact… not black and white.
I will continue to be bold, to be fierce and to be myself.
Thank you,
– mdurdenx
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