ZINAH

Floral Girl

2012-01-26T00:01:00.001Z

Met this lovely sister during Shimmer and Shine, her outfit is just to die for! The floral blouse, the maxi skirt and the headscarf- I want them all!

(Photography by Zinah)

Love and Peace

Central

2012-01-24T00:01:00.000Z

London Central Masjid is fairly big and popular. I very much like it, and it was my local masjid for the past 4 years, until I moved and found another local masjid; Al Manaar (which I will be posting about too).

This masjid has more than prayer rooms to offer! It's got a restaurant on the basement, a bookshop that also sell some abayas on the ground floor, and a breathtaking library on the first floor! If you come to London (or in fact live in London) you must visit it at some point! MUST! Also, don't you agree that its very pretty?

(Photography by Zinah)

Love and Peace

Gypsy

2012-01-22T00:01:00.002Z

(Photography by Amy, edited by Zinah)

I'm not frowning, I swear! It's the sunlight!

Coat- Zara

Scarf- Zara

Cardigan- Old Navy

Lace Top- Zara

Bag- Aldo

Trousers- Zara

Watch- Morgan (my very own obession)

Love and Peace

Al-Baqi'

2012-01-19T00:01:00.001Z

Sadly, the cemetery is not allowed to be visited by women, therefor the pictures are only from outside. Not that you would see much inside anyways, its pure sand (and in my relief, it isn't spooky or scary like other cemeteries!). In fact, it is pretty peaceful. The ground is massive, not sure how big, but it covers a lot of ground!

It's right next to the Masjid Al-Nabawi, and the Prophet's (s.a.w) relatives and companions are buried in the cemetery. Obviously with current and previous civilians passing away daily, they get buried in Al-Baqi' too. When you visit Madinah, you'll get to witness it yourself...

(Photography by Zinah)

Love and Peace

Leopard

2012-01-17T00:01:00.002Z

(Photography by Samiha and Zinah)

Scarf- Vintage
Dress- H&M
Cardigan- Tommy Hilfiger
Jeans- Mango
Boots- Zara
Bag- Mango
Watch- Morgan

Love and Peace

Be Italian

2012-01-15T00:01:00.020Z

Strawberry Tiramisu with Nine

I remember learning how to make strawberry tiramisu when I was like 16...its very easy and quick to make! Not to mention, very light and delicious! I've always been fan of Italian cuisine and since Nine is based in Italy, I had to pair the two!

Nine is a fancy and glamourous film, and I could have done a fancy Italian dish, but seriously, I had no time!

I've always been a fan of musical, live or in a form of a film, its a guilty pleasure to be honest...

Anyhow, the film is just something fun to watch, something you might wanna watch with your girls!

Honestly, Guido's (main character) anxieties and stress was somehow getting to me, I couldn't help but feel for the character, but luckily his wife, his mistress, his muse, his agent, his mother and the actress made the film more pleasant and fun to watch. All the singing and dancing made me feel l was watching a live show! Loved it.

You will surely fall in love with Guido's wife; played by the very lovely Marion Cotillard. I think I liked her character the most, but I liked Kate Hudson's singing! I had no idea she could sing (it's not amazing by the way haha, its just the song was catchy!).

I felt like something 'solid' was missing in the story line, it just wasn't good enough, but then again it's a musical! So I guess the whole focus is the singing and dancing, which was top notch!

I would not rate the film high, perhaps 3 out of 5?

Eating the cool and light strawberry tiramisu while watching the film was a bliss! There are some beautiful scenery in the film, where Guido drives around beautiful Rome in the sunlight, next to a clear blue sea and the pretty Italian buildings, with neat and detailed architecture! If you've never visited Italy, either go or watch this film!

This isn't a typical strawberry tiramisu, why? Because I only did one layer of it, instead of the usal two layers and its much lighter, as it contains no raw eggs...

What you need is:

- Mascarpone Cheese

- Double Cream

- Sugar and Vanilla Sugar

- Ladyfingers (Sponge Cookies)

- Strawberries

- Oranges

First, you squeeze the oranges onto the ladyfingers (make sure you don't soak them in...) then you place the ladyfingers in a bowl or plate (whatever you desire).

Then you mix the mascarpone cheese with the double cream, sugar and a bit of the vanilla sugar (I seriously can not give instructions on the amount of mascarpone or double cream you wanna use, but just make sure the mixture remains thick!) And the amount of sugar depends on how sweet you want to have it.

Place the cream mixture on top of the ladyfingers in your bowl or plate (I advice on using a bowl...)

Slice the strawberries and place them on top of the cream mixture in your bowl or plate. You can place them however you like, neat or fancy. I first placed them neatly, but wanted to eat all strawberries, so I chucked them all in the bowl :D

Know that I am no chef or a good cook or baker! I just enjoy cooking and baking, and I love watching movies, so I am basically just sharing my love for the kitchen and films to you. Enjoy!

(Photography and Dessert by Zinah)

Love and Peace

The World of Men

2012-01-12T00:01:00.003Z

I actually got the jumper from Zara Men...I'm not insane.

(Photography by Jihan and Zinah)

Jumper- Zara Men

Skirt- Zara

Scarf- Zara

Necklace- Can't remember where I got it from :s

Boots- Zara

Bag- Christian Dior

Love and Peace

Sana

2012-01-10T00:01:00.009Z

I love her look! Its so elegant, classic and colour work so well together. Don't you just love the necklace?

(Photography by Zinah)

Love and Peace

There is Light

2012-01-08T00:01:00.005Z

(Photography by Zinah)

Necklace- Mikey London Jewellery

Bracelet- eBay

Parfume- YSL Baby Doll

Love and Peace

In The Kitchen

2012-01-05T00:01:00.007Z

I was always fond of cooking and baking, and I actually had cooking class for 2 years in my secondary school. I very much enjoyed it, and used to occasionally cook and bake this and that. Then university turned up in my life, and it's not a friendly guest! It takes so much of my life, I barely have time to squeeze in other stuff (I even schedule blog posts 2-3months prior to the publishing date...yes I am writing this on the 28th of October...publishing it on the 5th of January 2012!).

It's crazy and hectic, and the last thing I would do is leave my lovely readers in the dark! However, since reading "Tuesdays with Morrie", I decided to listen to Morrie and make time for the things and for the people I love! That obviously includes cooking and baking!

I got several cook books, and my very favourite is Marie Claire's "Fast Food". I also like the "How To Cook" book series by Delia Smith (Book 1, 2, 3). Both books instruct you on healthy and fresh food (very delightful).

Since I have not posted about any films for over 1 year (Shrek review, awful writing and review, but I'm hoping to get better at this), I decided to pair food and film! I got inspired by Jamie Beck's "Dinner & Movie" (I very much love her and her work, she is an absolute inspiration!). I will be doing this with my amazing and lovely friend Abida, we shall meet up once a month to do this food & film date inshallah! However, time still isn't my friend and paring a dish (savoury or sweets) with a film is gonna be tricky, so will be doing both savoury and sweets, whatever the film....So, you'll be getting posts on dishes and bakery stuff I made, twice a month. Welcome to my new label: "Film & Food"

(Photography by Zinah)

Donna Hay Marie Claire "Fast Food"

Delia Smith "How to Cook" Book 1, 2, 3

Love and Peace

Cool

2012-01-03T00:01:00.007Z

A very lovely sister I met during the Shimmer & Shine event! Here style is just so laid back and cool. I really like it!

(Photography by Zinah)

Love and Peace

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T00:00:00.055Z

Happy New Year to all of you :) hope you'll have a great start to 2012 and may Allah bless you with a wonderful year inshallah.

Not gonna ask about New Year's resolutions...do they even work? And why have a resolution in new year? Ins't everyday a new start for us? A new chance to once again embrace life? We should be grateful to Allah and have a new resolution for each day...just saying ;)

(Photography and Editing by Zinah)

I'm dedicating this blog posts to all the wonderful readers, visitors and my loved ones, but especially to my loved ones. Each one of them had an effect on my life, I have learned a lot from them, they thought me so much (whether it was their intention or not, I don't know) and I'd like to keep them in my life for as long as I live, because they make me very very happy!

First I'd very much like to point out that I very much love my parents and am eternally grateful, and anything I'd do for them would not even get close to repaying them...like NEVER! All the love and support I get from them is overwhelming.

Then come my siblings who by the way I have 10 of! Yes, 10 siblings! 6 amazing, strong and beautiful sisters, and 4 humble, down to earth and funny brothers! I'm very much close to them, and always have been. I love each one of them equally, and life without them wouldn't be as adventurous and wonderful as it is right now. Not to mention, their kids and spouses!

Then come my friends, and I mean true friends and there are handful of them! Bare with my 'I love everyone' emotions :) I am not gonna mention everyone, but those who I've named are truly special and mean a lot to me!
Urszula, Amy, Corrine, Abida, Sara, Gulcan, Syra, Sue, Zahra and there others that probably don't want me to mention them on here haha but I still do love them!

2011 has been absolutely amazing for me! I met wonderful people on- and offline (Abida, my very new friend that I very much love!) I met many inspirational sisters (designers, event organisers, photographers and bloggers), I got to see beautiful places such as Milan, Saudi Arabia and Paris. I did my Umrah (alhamdulillah) and seen and touched the Ka'bah!

I got to attend wonderful events including London Fashion Weekend, Shimmer& Shine, Smokey Not Smudgy, "The Magicians" show on BBC and the Yemen Culture Fair.

I participated in the May and November Hijab Fashion Week and took part in the StyleIn Competition.
I have been blogging for over one year and bought my own domain.

My blog has reached many readers alhamdulillah, the lovely Urooba awarded me wit Stylish Blogger Award, I was honoured when I got interviewed by Revealed Radio Show and Radical Middle Way.

Let's not forget the amazing books I have read, that enlightened my world! The islamic books that I have read over Ramadan and the Qur'an! Tuesday's with Morrie; a book I very much love! I have so so many books on my shelf that need to be read! Really looking forward to it inshallah!

I feel like I have achieved so much on this blog and personally within a year and I feel so blessed alhamdu wa shukru lilah!

I very much wish that all of you had a wonderful year in 2011, and may Allah bless us all with a beautiful year in 2012!

Love and Peace

Urban Voices

2011-12-29T00:01:00.029Z

I had the chance to be interviewed by Radical Middle Way, who showcase the work of visual and performing artists.
When the lovely Marium asked me if she can showcase me as a designer on their website, I was very flattered by it.
I invited her over to my room, which also happens to be my studio (inshallah I will post about how my room is my studio in the coming year/2012). She recorded my awful voice, and took some photographs of me and the 'studio'.

While she was doing that I took some photographs of her :D

Here is the slideshow:

(Photography by Zinah)

Love and Peace

Tuesdays with Morrie

2011-12-27T00:01:00.020Z

How convenient is it for me to post a review of "Tuesdays with Morrie" on a tuesday? Coincidence? I think not! I read the book in October, and I am writing this in October...but scheduled for december. Why? Because so many events happened (or happens in my current presence) during November and beginning of December, not to forget work and university. Morrie just had to wait until today.

Where do I start? It's the number 1 best international book, and it deserves to be that! I would not give this book justice by trying to explain the story and therefore I will not write anything about it...nor will I try to explain how amazing it is. I think its a book that you must read for yourself to experience the story, it is emotional, warm and rather overwhelming for all the right reasons.

It lit my world and made me view things so much differently. We seriously need more people like Morrie in our current society.

(Photography by Zinah)

You can buy the book here on Amazon!

Love and Peace

Yemen Culture Fair

2011-12-25T00:01:00.004Z

The Yemen Culture fair event in aid of Islamic Relief Yemen Crisis Appeal. It was rather good, the food was delicious, it was for a great cause, the people were lovely.

There were some stalls selling lovely stuff such as hijabs, abayas, other products and delicious cupcakes!

There were some wonderful photographs, art and traditional clothing.

I let the pictures I took of the event for themselves.

(Photography by Zinah)

Love and Peace

First Muezzin

2011-12-22T00:01:00.004Z

Masjid Bilal is in Madinah/Saudi Arabia, very close to Al Masjid Al-Nabawi.

The location is pretty authentic, and right underneath the masjid is a market and a shopping centre (sort of good but weird too...)

The praying area are on the first floor, with an open roof on the centre, and men's section on the left and women's on the right. I very much liked the architecture of the masjid, the sun streaming in, the flawless marble floor, and the traditional red carpet. Beautiful!

Not many people could confirm that, but rumours has it that the masjid was named after Bilal Ibn Rabah Al-Habashi, the first muezzin.

(Photography by Zinah)

Love and Peace

Zainab

2011-12-20T00:01:00.002Z

A sweet and adorable girl. Simple style and she does look pretty comfortable, doesn't she? I like it, what about you ladies?

If you are brave, bold and stylish and would like to be featured on my blog, then please please please do feel free to email me your outfit picture!

(Photography by Zinah)

email me your outfit pictures!

Love and Peace

Notre Dame de Paris

2011-12-18T00:01:00.017Z

I love colour and 99% of my photographs are in colour, but for once I decided on going black & white. I have been admiring black & white photographs for some time, but I never had the guts to take my own black& white photographs, until recently...

These are photographs of the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, an interesting place to see in Paris...I thought the use of black & white captures the place and the moment, not to mention, it was cloudy and raining that day too.

(Photography & Editing by Zinah)

Love and Peace

French Connection

2011-12-15T00:01:00.009Z

(Photography by Samiha)

Scarf- Vintage

Cape- French Connection UK

Cardigan- Tommy Hilfiger

Watch- Morgan

Love and Peace

Tomboy

2011-12-13T00:01:00.001Z

(Photography by Amy and Zinah)

Scarf- River Island

Long Shirt- Zara

Leather Jacket- Zara

Trouser- Zara

Shoes- All Star Converses

Bag- Zara

Love and Peace

Candy

2011-12-11T00:21:00.000Z

(Photography by Zinah)

Earrings- H&M
Necklace-
Belt- Zara
Mascara- 17 Falsifeye
Blusher- Bourjois Little Round Pot Blusher in Rose D'Or
Lip Gloss- Clinique Superbalm Mousturizing Gloss in Grapefruit
Scarf- Zara
Muffin Forms- Habitat

Love and Peace

Radcliffe

2011-12-08T00:01:00.002Z

By this post title I am referring to the one and only Daniel Radcliffe! No I am not doing a post about him, I am merely referencing to his style that I got inspired by! Yes, a dude's style! I love love love it!

It's not exactly the same (just ignore the obvious of me being a girl, wearing headscarf and skirt etc), but I liked the pattern, colour combination and the simplicity of the style...so yeah, here is my version haha

(Photography by Amy, Editing by Zinah)

Scarf- Zara

Long-sleeved Top- H&M

Skirt- Zara

Trench- Zara

Loafers- New Look

Satchel- H&M

Scarf- Moschino

Watch - Morgan (I have been wearing my Morgan watch like...everyday!)

Love and Peace

Johana

2011-12-06T00:01:00.001Z

The lovely Johana sent me her outfit picture, and she looks pretty mashallah. Her style is elegant, simple and classic!

(Photography sent by Johana)

Love and Peace

Magic

2011-12-04T00:01:00.009Z

My friends and I got to see the preview show of "The Magicians" that is apparently gonna showcase on BBC One...it was hilarous! I honestly found it very amusing to see some comedy entwined in the acts.

The first act was good, the 2nd act was rather poor...you honestly have to be naive and oblivious to believe that voodoo dolls work? Especially knowing that only the 'extras' are invited on stage?
Yeah sorry to disappoint...but all in all it was a very good night and the show was good too! I'd rate it 4 out of 5?

I couldn't take pictures of the actual show, because I was too busy laughing...but this is what I've got. Thought I'd put up the picture of me taken by my lovely friend Corrine...the outcome looks rather nice :)

(Photography by Zinah & Corrine)

Love and Peace

Forever Friends

2011-12-03T00:01:00.002Z

Day 7: Out with Friends

In these pictures, I am really out with friends, we went on a small road trip to Kent! It was rather fun, and we sort of dressed up to get into the show "Take me out" but we arrived late...but the night didn't go to waste! What's better than spending the night with hilarious and extraordinary friends?

I've been crazy about sequins and beige recently! Love it so much!

This is the end of HFW November 2011, I hope you all enjoyed it as much as I did. So many stylish sisters every year, its overwhelming and wonderful!

(Photography by Amy, Zinah and Jihan)

Headscarf- Bought from Saudi

Leather Jacket- Zara

Sequinned T-shirt- H&M

Maxi Skirt- Zara

Heels- Miss Selfridges

Clutch- Zara

Love and Peace

Sequinned Nights

2011-12-02T00:01:00.007Z

Day 6: Date Night

I'm not married, I don't have a date, I dress for me in this case haha but if you dress for someone else...this should give you an idea :)

(Photography by Amy)

Shoulder sequinned Cardigan- Mango

Dress- Zara

Trousers- Mango

Sequinned clutch- Zara

Sequinned Headscarf- Rose and Rose

Boots- Zara

Love and Peace

Peter Pan

2011-12-01T00:01:00.003Z

Day 5: Eid/ Formal

I actually wore this during the 2nd day of Eid :) Sorry I didn't take a full outfit picture, but I'm wearing a long sleeved short dress from Warehouse.

(Photography by Jihan and Zinah)

Headscarf-

Dress- Warehouse

Shoes- Zara

Love and Peace

Furry

2011-11-30T00:01:00.002Z

Day 4: Vacation

Since its winter here (and I actually love winter) I thought I'd rock a fur coat (not real of course...) and my destination would be Moscow! Why? Because I love their fur hats, fur coats and want to experience their freezing winters!

This is what I'd wear, but I'm pretty sure I'd end up freezing, especially with those shoes! And yes I'm rocking the same bag, why? Because its so AMAZING!

(Photography by Jihan and Zinah)

Fur Coat- Zara Kids (yes, it actually fits me and I couldn't stop myself, so I got it!)

T-Shirt- Zara

Trousers- Zara

Scarf- Zara

Shoes- Peacock

Handbag- Zara

Love and Peace

Black & Grey

2011-11-29T00:01:00.003Z

Day 3: Break The Rules

Not sure if my outfit fits in this category at all...well I'm wearing a leather dress, does that count as breaking rules? Also, I'm wearing my bracelet on my upper arm...that is bending the rules of bracelets, no?

I'm not always brave to break rules, especially when it comes to fashion...I like to be comfortable and remain simple and elegant. But I'm pretty sure there are some great sisters who rock at this!

Ps. Don't I look scary in the last picture? Maybe this should have been a halloween outfit ;)

(Photography by Amy)

Cardigan- Vintage

Headscarf- ZINAH

Dress- Zara

Trousers- Zara

Boots- Zara

Bracelets- Primark

Love and Peace

So Soft

2011-11-28T00:03:00.000Z

Day 2: Hobby

Well, I love design, its not only my hobby but inshallah my future profession. This outfit represents my love for soft colours and pastels and inshallah shown in my future collection ;) so yeah...hope you like it!

(Photography by Amy and Zinah)

Cardigan- Tommy Hilfiger

Dress-

Headscarf- Zara

Trousers- Zara

Shoes- Peacocks

Necklace- Mikey Jewellery London

Love and Peace

HFW 1st Anniversary & Happy New Islamic Year

2011-11-27T00:01:00.013Z

I'd like to start with a very Happy New Year to all my Muslim sisters & brothers. It is a new Islamic year (started yesterday) and I very much hope that Allah blesses you with a wonderful year ahead inshallah. May all your resolutions, changes and dreams come true. Embrace each day with open arms, and love every minute :) a ver warm welcome to year 1433!

On another note, it has been 1 year since the first HFW event started, and thanks to Em it has been very successful. Very proud of her, and very proud of all sisters who participated with excitement and enthusiasm. It is always a pleasure and an honour to take part :)

First Outfit: Leaders In Hijab

I am no way a leader nor a follower...I'm just something in-between, if that exists. This is my outfit, if I'd end up being one big designer hahah very casual, comfortable and simple! I obviously woudn't walk around the streets wearing that, my long coat is right before me...I just didn't take a picture with it.

(Photography by Amy)

Metallic Cardigan- Zara

Shirt- Zara

Trousers- Mango

Shoes- Primark

Handbag- Zara

Scarf- Zara
Watch- Morgan

Love and Peace

Une Soirée Avec Tour Eiffel

2011-11-24T00:01:00.007Z

(Photography by Zinah & Amy)

Trench Coat- Zara
Trousers- Mango
Lace Dress- Zara
Scarf- Zara
Fur Scarf- H&M
Shoes- Peacocks
Bag- Chanel

Love and Peace

Musée Du Louvre

2011-11-22T00:01:00.005Z

You probably have heard of the Louvre Museum in Paris. Not only is it famous, but it contains famous art pieces and not to forget it was in the movie The Da Vinci Code.
It's so huge, one wouldn't be able to finish it in 2 days perhaps! My interest was the Mona Lisa mainly and the right wing section of the museum...

We managed to stay there for over 2hours and only saw very little...Here are some pictures (can you see how many people surround the Mona Lisa?)

(Photography by Zinah)

Love and Peace

Smokey Not Smudgy 2011

2011-11-20T00:01:00.011Z

This is the 2nd time round I'm attending this amazing event, keeps getting better and bigger every year mashallah. The girls are so organised and have done everything so well. I loved it!

This was also ZBZ/ZNZ debut fashion show :)

The designers had their pretty clothes shown on the catwalk. Dina Toki-o, Nisaa, ZNZ, Ayeda Couture, Moroccan Kaftans by Mirriam and Emma Amoafo.

I snapped some pictures with Jana, Dina, my lovely friend Zahra and Emma :)

(Photography by Zinah, last 3 by a wonderful sister that I can't sadly remember...)

Love and Peace

Shimmer & Shine

2011-11-17T00:01:00.008Z

Shimmer & Shine is a charity event. It was rather pleasant, with a lot of lovely sisters, stalls selling their goods such as hijabs, jewellery and delicious cupcakes! Several make up artist and hair stylist also took part in the event, dressing up the models for the fashion show (which unfortunately could not take pictures of due to confidential reasons...).

Since this event was organised for the first time, it was just natural to have experienced few ups and downs, like the fashion show was meant to only last one hour but it took way longer than that and some of the designers who booked stalls didn't turn up. It luckily did not effect much of the event and everything else remained very much organised and fun.

I do hope that Shimmer & Shine comes back next year inshallah, I'd be more than happy to attend again :)

Here are some pictures of the event:

(Photography by Zinah)

Love and Peace

Safy

2011-11-15T00:01:00.001Z

The cool Safy has such a laid back style, its so simple and funky at the same time (does that make sense?). Well I like it a lot, in fact I love the number of rings she's wearing!

(Photography by Zinah)

Safy is wearing:
Dress- ASOS
Cardigan- Vintage
Scarf- H&M
Shoes- T.K Maxx

email me your outfit pictures!

Love and Peace

Paris Part II

2011-11-13T00:01:00.008Z

Part 2 of the Paris trip...enjoy!

Ps. The French are very serious about their macaroons! They even have a Matthew Williamson macaroons in Laduree...weird or wonderful?

(Photography by Zinah)

Love and Peace

Paris Part I

2011-11-10T00:01:00.003Z

It was a one day trip with my two friends...it felt rather surreal, not because we went to see Paris, but because we were dead tired! Waking up at 4am to catch the 6am train, how insane does that sound? Haha
The weather wasn't our friend either, it was cloudy until late afternoon, then it started to rain...why Paris? Why?

Besides these downsides, everything else was great, we saw Notre Dame, Musee Du Louvre, Tour Eiffel, Trocadero, not to forget Champs- Elysees!

Paris without having any macaroons, just isn't Paris at all! The famous Laduree was of course closed and under construction (someone did NOT want us to go to Paris at all!) so we went to buy some from Paul's Bakery. They were delicious, and I just found out that both Laduree and Paul's macaroons are available in London...but they seem extra special getting them from Paris haha

Here are some pictures I've captured of the day ( you can tell the sky was cloudy and grey, can't you?)

(This photo is by Amy)

(Photography by Zinah)

Love and Peace

Happy Days

2011-11-08T00:01:00.003Z

Eid was wonderful, and I have spent it with the entire family! It's always such a blessing to have a large family and to gather round on special occasions, catching up on how the cousins are doing, the in-laws, and uncles.

Not to forget the late night dinners, going out until you drop dead tired and taking night strolls! Its all great fun. I hope all of you had a blessed Eid with family and friends :)

Here are very few pictures of the day...

(Photography by Zinah)

Love and Peace

Lets Celebrate Eid

2011-11-06T00:01:00.011Z

Eid Mubarak to all of you lovelies!
Have a blessed day, with lots of love, joy and fun! Hope you'll enjoy your day with your loved ones!

(Photography and editing by Zinah)

Love and Peace

Train

2011-11-03T00:01:00.006Z

Taking pictures on the Metropolitan line was way too embarrassing...in fact taking pictures during a train journey is just weird and you get all these funny looks from people haha

Well as you may have noticed, I like to take pictures in different scenes and environments...imagine all my pictures taken in my room? Boring indeed.

Speaking of journeys. I am now in Paris/France (10am GMT). I sure will be posting about this soon inshallah.

(Photography by Amy and Zinah, editing by Zinah)

Jumper- H&M

Skirt- H&M Conscious Collection

Scarf- Zara

Boots- Zara

Watch- Morgan

Love and Peace

The Colour of Love

2011-11-01T00:01:00.000Z

(Photography by Amira and Zinah)

Dress- Love Label
Blazer- Zara
Scarf- Zara
Boots- Bass (from America)

Love and Peace

Inside a Beauty

2011-10-30T00:01:00.006+01:00

This is the most beautiful place on earth! Subhanallah, with all the number of people inside the Haram, it is still very peaceful, quite and beautiful! I am not exaggerating at all...don't believe me? Go and see it for yourselves, it is a life experience and you will be forever grateful that you got the chance to see Al Haram and its beauty!

May Allah bless all Muslims for a chance to see Al Haram. I have no words to describe it, no words to express and no words to explain. I feel very much in peace and have never been happier in my life, thanks to Allah and His glorious and holy place; Al Haram!

These are photographs I took inside the Haram. Enjoy!

(Photography & Editing by Zinah, the two of me by Samiha)

Love and Peace

Golden Brown

2011-10-27T00:01:00.000+01:00

This was me in Madinah...Since the abaya was all black and plain, a bit of colour and pattern was needed!

(Photography by Zinah and Samiha)

Sandals- Primark

Necklace- Mikey Jewellery London

Abaya- from Saudi Arabia

Bag, Headscarf- Zara

Love and Peace

Street Style

2011-10-25T00:01:00.004+01:00

So, I decided to take photographs of Hijabis on the street! You probably have come across many blogs that have street style section, where they post outfit pictures of others...but have you seen Hijabis street style? Maybe haha

It's not always easy to approach people on the street and ask them for photographs, in some cases people will start to freak out and walk off! Not everyone likes their picture taken and especially posted up online, so its a bit of a challenging task|! I managed to ask few lovely sisters so far and I shall post them up one by one :)

If you are brave, bold and stylish and would like to be featured on my blog, then please please please do feel free to email me your outfit picture!

For now, here is my lovely friend Mubeena, who has just a great style! I adore her clothes.

(Photography by Zinah)

Mubeena is wearing:

Cardigan- Republic

Dress-ASOS

Scarf- Dorothy Perkins

Boots- Linzi

Bag- Topshop

Necklace- Primark

email me your outfit pictures!

Love and Peace

Stripes of Autumn

2011-10-23T00:01:00.002+01:00

Only two pictures...why? Because the battery of my camera died...Forgot to charge it after 2 weeks of use!

(Photography by Amy& Zinah)

Bag-

Everything else from Zara

Love and Peace

White

2011-10-20T00:01:00.005+01:00

(Photography by Jihan, Editing by Zinah)

Watch- Morgan

Scarf - Marc Rozier

Necklace- H&M

Dress, Sandals, Headscarf and Bag- Zara

Love and Peace

Saudi Arabia Part III

2011-10-18T00:01:00.012+01:00

This is the last part of my Saudi Arabia holiday photo diary. I hope you enjoyed the pictures I have shown you for the past couple of weeks. There are more to come, but they'll be pictures of specific places such as the Haram, mosques and places I have visited.

These selected pictures are from Makkah and Madinah

(Photography by Zinah)

Love and Peace

Ajyad Market

2011-10-16T00:01:00.002+01:00

Just as soon as you pass the huge fancy shopping centres in Makkah, you see this lovely authentic market. I love it! Not a fan of big modern shopping centres at all (don't even have much/any love for Westfield London!) and when I saw this market, I was in awe! It's so colourful, happy and yes cheap! Even the sales assistants were all so friendly and welcoming.

These two guys even asked me to take picture of them, and they thought I'm from Algeria or Morocco...funny!

On a different note, I really, really, really love reading each one of your comment and I am delighted to reply to each one of you. Please feel free to bombard me with comments, questions, suggestions, ANYTHING really! It seriously means the world to me!

I should be punished for not replying for the past 5months, not because I have been lazy or drowning in vain, but because my silly blog wouldn't send me notifications of the comments posted, and I hardly had the chance to flick back through blog posts to check for comments. I am terribly sorry that I have only replied to the comments of the blog posts recently. Please forgive me?

Now I am fully back on track :D oh and I love you all x

(Photography by Zinah)

Love and Peace

Little London

2011-10-13T00:01:00.000+01:00

Looks like I'm not the only one who is addicted to Zara...my niece, only 3years old wears Zara too (Zara Kids of course). Could it be possible she got it from her aunt? But then again, her mother is a Zaraholic too haha

By the way, these pictures were taking during the sunny days of October

(Photography by Zinah & Samiha)

My niece is wearing everything from Zara, Hairband from H&M

Me: Zara!

Love and Peace

Saudi Arabia Part II

2011-10-11T00:01:00.005+01:00

You can imagine how many pictures I took while I was in Saudi Arabia...1 months, over 15 places and crazy me with my photography obsession. Now do the maths haha there were roughly 700 pictures, obviously I won't bore you with all of them, I will only torture you with around 100+ pictures haha

I am sorry in advance, but my stay in Saudi was wonderful, I would so love to share every corner I have captured with you, every day I visited the Haram, every minute I enjoyed seeing so many happy faces...But that would mean up to 50 blog posts about Saudi, and I am pretty sure you wouldn't want that :)
Also not to worry, I will post other stuff in between, you know the usual outfit posts, events I will be going to, reviews etc.

So here it goes, 2nd part of my Saudi holiday (obviously only selected pictures). Just be warned, there will be part 3 :D

The selected pictures are from Madinah.

(Photography by Zinah, last 2 by Zak)

Love and Peace

October

2011-10-09T00:01:00.000+01:00

These are the items I am most looking forward to wear this fall!

(Photography by Zinah)

Bag- Chanel

Scarf- Marc Rozier

Leather Loafers- New Look

Lace Dress- Zara

Leopard Heels- Zara

Knit Dress- Zara

Kimono- Zara

Love and Peace

Sunny Fall

2011-10-06T00:01:00.000+01:00

I have finally bought my own domain alhamdulillah! I am so excited about it, finally the URL to my blog is short and sweet. Sadly zinah.com was taken (how frustrating that everything 'zinah' is taken, but never used!) so I went for zinahns.com (the ns standing for my surname initials).

Hello to my new domain :D

(Photography by Zinah & Amy Pho, Editing by Zinah)

Watch- Morgan

Everything from Zara

Love and Peace

Mountains of Makkah

2011-10-04T00:02:00.000+01:00

Decided to climb up a mountain in Makkah, around the Ajyad area with my brother. There was this pretty old village, with happy people. It was wonderful, peaceful and quite. Really found it great to see entire Makkah from all way up and reflect on my life.

I loved it very much!

These are only few pictures...I have to sort out 700 pictures I took during my Saudi holiday :s

(Photography by Zinah...except the one of myself, by Zak)

Love and Peace

New Place

2011-10-02T00:05:00.000+01:00

This was my first time celebrating Eid abroad (Madinah/ Saudi Arabia), and it was strange...really great to see the entire city celebrate, have fun, families going out until early in the morning (until 3am) and so much love in the air. Yet it felt a little bit lonely, since it was all new and we barely knew anyone there.

Normally we spent the 1st day of Eid having a huge lunch with the entire family and relatives. All coming over to our place. This time, it was just my parents, sister, brother and I, in a new place, knowing no one.
We still managed to have fun at the end by going out and seeing wonderful places and having a lovely dinner and delicious ice cream (Mövenpick Swiss Premium! Yuuuuummmm!)

(Photography by Zinah & Zak)

I'm wearing:

Headscarf- Fendi

Abaya- from Saudi Arabia

Necklace- Mikey Jewellery London

Love and Peace

Saudi Arabia Part I

2011-09-25T00:01:00.001+01:00

I had the amazing experience of visiting the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, It is absolutely breathtaking and stunning!

I loved every minute there, people are so friendly and happy. The atmosphere is wonderful. I felt very active throughout, particularly in Makkah. That city does not sleep at all! Madinah on the other hand was beautiful and peaceful. Also got to see Jeddah...it's very interesting.

There is so much I'd like to share with you about those two cities, but wouldn't wanna bombard you with it in one post.

Here are some random pictures from my journey...London to Makkah. We stopped in Frankfurt, hence the German milk in the picture (their milk is amazing by the way!)

(Photography by Zinah)

Love and Peace

Packing

2011-09-22T00:01:00.021+01:00

I really am not good at packing, but I am even worse at unpacking...I started packing for my holiday to Saudi Arabia (that was 1 month ago...) and I had no idea what to take with me.

Light packing was out of the question, as I had to stay abroad for 1 month, but I also couldn't pack to much since I was only allowed 25kg on the plane (Lufthansa just in case you're wondering). So what did I take?

My 3 babies...these are my Nikon slr camera, my MacBook and my iphone. Then I took 3 books, just for light reading, some essentials such pyjamas and lingerie. When it came to clothes, accessories and shoes, I was hopeless!
My mum told me: "You need plenty of Abayas, headscarves and under garments, but nothing else!"

She was right, there is nothing else you can wear in Makkah and Madinah, for religious reasons and the weather (39C min. 47C max.).

I am back in London now and I have still not unpacked!

(Photograohy by Zinah)

Sandals- Primark

Flip Flops- Primark

T-Shirt- Zara

Pyjama Trousers- Primark

18-55mm Zoom Lens- Nikkor for Nikon

MacBook Pro

iPhone

Hajj & Ummrah Book

Stories of the Prophets book

Love and Peace

Love and Support

2011-08-22T00:01:00.007+01:00

I'm sorry I won't be able to blog much while I'm in Saudi Arabia (currently in Madinah), so in the meantime you can show your love and support :)

Please VOTE for my design inshallah, I really appreciate your love and support.

Enjoy the short film and a sum up of the making of the abaya!

Show your love and support to my other half, Zahra BZ. Vote for her design too! It's beautiful

Vote, Vote, Vote!

2011-08-15T00:28:00.001+01:00

I am entering the StyleIn competition for designing an Abaya or Jilbab. I would so much appreciate your support, by leaving a comment here and voting for my design/Abaya.

VOTE , COMMENT & SHARE

I have worked really hard for this and made this Abaya especially for the competition. It’s rather different and not the usual Abaya, colour wise that is and perhaps the sequinned top. The shape itself is rather different too, the shoulders are padded to give extra shape and make it couture. The bottom part of the Abaya is loose and flows; it adds flair to it.

The fabric is sheer and light yet modest. It’s a blended fabric of silk and cotton. The lining is light polyester, in the same colour of the outer fabric; ivory with a hint of rose. Sequins on top make the whole Abaya an eveningwear, and the golden colour compliments the rest of the Abaya. The visible black & gold zip at the back is the final touch to make it all couture and extraordinary.

My inspirations come from everywhere, there isn’t one place I wouldn’t look and get inspired from. This particular Abaya was inspired by my love for soft pastels, the colour of romance and femininity. It’s a timeless colour and can be worn through any season and any trend, combined with the right colours.

I’ve also got inspired by Zara, my obvious obsession, their garments are such a class! Elegance on its finest, love every shape, cut and detail of their garments. They are rather simple yet so stylish. If you have seen my blog before or a regular reader, then you know my love for Zara.

Other inspirations include objects and pictures I came across everyday, photographs I took and the 650 pictures saved on my MacBook. It is astonishing how looking at a delicious cupcake can turn into making an Abaya!

It took me more than 3 weeks to create this Abaya, from coming up with the design to the final photo-shoot and editing process. I am a perfectionist (and yes I am still working on being a better perfectionist, if that’s even possible) and when I heard of the competition, designing alone wasn’t good enough for me…I had to go all the way!

I’ve started with putting my initial idea onto paper. I’ve done a rough sketch, pointing out what I want my final Abaya to look like, its shape, fabric, colour etc. Of course, that was just an initial idea.

Once that was done, I’ve done the final illustration of the Abaya, inspired by David Downton, tried to make it look artistic and turn it into fashion illustration rather than just a plain Abaya design.

One won’t be able to see the detailed Abaya design by looking at the sketch and illustration, therefore I have done a flat plan, to show the exact pattern shape, the Abaya shape and the individual Abaya piece.

This way, it is not only easier for me to create the pattern but also for the viewer to have a better understanding of how my Abaya looks like.

The challenging part of it all was creating the pattern, creating your own design always involves creating your own pattern. Using an industrial pattern would be rather cheating don’t you think? And where would the fun of it all be? I have used an industrial pattern as a guide, but that’s all.

Even as a guide, I could not bring my head around with all the measurements, numbers and the 12 pattern pieces that my Abaya required. So I have created a mini pattern, just to see how many pieces my final design would require and how they would fit together.

Once the pattern was done (and trust me I was so relieved) I had to make sure all pieces go together, therefore I’ve tested it on a calico cotton fabric rather than the final fabric (which would cost me fortunes if it would go wrong).

Luckily, the mock-up piece did not require much alteration, and I was good to go!

As mentioned before I have used a fabric blend of silk and cotton for the outer body and polyester for the lining.

The upper body is sequinned and broke 2 needles when I was sewing it (then finally discovered that with a light fabric on top of it, everything was smooth.) The back includes a visible zip, just for an extra touch of class and couture!

This is the final Abaya; I have put all my heart and soul into it, every detail of it; from sketching it out to making it. This required hard work, sweat and tears, and it was all worth it.

A hijab just had to go with it, so I made one, the front side is 100% linen and the other side is 100% satin silk.

The detail is hand sewn by me of course haha

Then I had to do a photo-shoot and do a mini video! It just had to happen, glamorous Abaya without the glam? No way!

So I asked for volunteer models and found the lovely Bahashat (who was amazing throughout). My lovely friend who is a make-up artist did the make-up. I’ve done the styling and setting of the scene myself.

The video is just a short story of a woman getting ready to go out. So she puts on her make-up, looks all pretty, puts on my Abaya and turns even more beautiful, ready to go out with her lovely husband.

The rest of the video is just briefly explaining the making of the Abaya.

Please take few minutes to comment on my design/Abaya and vote for me. I would so much love your support. Please feel free to forward the link to all our dear family and friends.

I am very sorry for the long essay, but I had to explain my passion

Thank you ever so much, I will be forever grateful. Jazakallah khair

Love and Peace,

Zinah

P.s More photographs :)

Solve Your Problems...

2011-08-09T15:03:00.001+01:00

...through the 99 Beautiful Names of Allah.

09.

Al Azeez- The Mighty

Allah Ta'ala will grant honour, self-steem and self-sufficiency to the one who recites this beautiful Name of Allah 40 times for 40 consecutive days. If read 41 times daily, the reader

*Edit: This post isn't even complete...I am very sorry for the lack of update during this blessed month, I have been pretty busy packing up and planning my holiday to Saudi Arabia. I am leaving soon, and will inshallah update as soon as I have access to the internet over there.

Apple

2011-08-04T15:00:00.014+01:00

This doesn't even require an instruction...it's that simple! All I did was roll some ready made puff pastry, cut the apples in square and boiled them for 10mins in water with cinnamon stick. Soaked blueberries in sugar for 20mins.

Cut the pastry in square and put the fruit on top of it. Baked until golden. Added some strawberry jam on top and done! Simple thing to enjoy after Taraweeh prayer with coffee or tea.

(Photography and baking by Zinah)

Love and Peace

8

2011-08-03T00:07:00.000+01:00

Here are the first 8, I hope you find the names of Allah as beautiful and helpful as I do. Inshallah try to remember them all and one day we will get to know the 100th name in Jannah inshallah.

01.

Allah- the Name of Allah

Whoever says this Name of Allah 1000times daily, all forms of doubts and uncertainties will be removed from his heart and, instead, determination and faith will become ingrained in him. It is also very effective in the cure of an incurable disease if Dua is made after reciting it excessively.

02.

Ar Rahmaan- The Compassionate

This beautiful Name of Allah is very effective in removing hardness of the heart and negligence in matters of Deen if recited 100 times after every Salaah (Prayer)

03.

Ar Raheem- Most Merciful

If recited daily after every Salaah 100 times, the reciter will be safeguarded against all calamities and the entire creation of Allah will show compassion towards him.

04.

Al Malik- The Sovereign

A person will become self-sufficient and independent if he reads it excessively daily after Zawaal.

05.

Al Qud-Doos- The Most Holy

If recited excessivley, Allah will cure the reciter from all spiritual sicknesses.

06.

As Salaam- The Giver of Peace

Allah will protect one from all calamities if this beautiful Name of Allah is read excessively. If recited 115 times and blown on a sick person, Allah Ta'ala will restore his health inshallah.

07.

Al Mumin- The Granter of Security

Whoever says this Name of Allah 630 times of fear, Allah will protect him from all calamities inshallah. If anyone writes it (on paper or by engraving it on silver ring) and keeps it on him (as ta'weez), his physical and spiritual safety will remain the responsibility of Allah.

08.

Al Muhaimin- The Protector

Anyone who offers 2 Rak'aat of Salaah after having had a bath and recites this beautiful Name of Allah 100 times with sincerity and devotion, he will be purified in body and soul. And if read 115 times, Allah will acquaint him with the unseen.

(Photography and Editing by Zinah)

More to come soon inshallah

Pictures from Islamic Path
Refrence: Solve Your Problems through the 99 Beautiful Names of Allah (Book)

Love and Peace

99 Beautiful Names of Allah

2011-08-02T15:04:00.002+01:00

I'm not planning to post all 99 at the same time, therefore I am gonna be doing 3 posts a week containing 8 beautiful names of Allah on each post, that makes it 24 names a week, 96 names a month and the last 3 on the last day of Ramadhan inshallah.

Before I start posting Allah (swt) most glorious and beautiful names. Here are some things that you need to know:

Excellence of the beautiful names of Allah

" Allah (swt) has 99 names & whoever knows them will go to Paradise"- Bukhari V3.B50/ 894

Rasoolullah (Sallallahu-alayhi-wasallam) is reported to have said: "There are 99 Beautiful Names of Allah through whose mediation we have been commanded to make Dua. Whoso learns them and rcites them will surley enter Jannah"

According to another riwayah: "Whoso commits them to memory and recites them constantly will surley enter Jannah."

How to recite the 99 beautiful names of Allah

When wishing to recite all the beautiful names of Allah, begin by saying:

(Picture from Islamic Path)

Huwal Laahul Ladhi La Illaha Illa Huwa...(Translation: He is Allah, beside Whom none has the right to be worshipped but He...)

and then continue till the end. But note that the last letter of each name should be recited with the vowl Dhammah and joined to the next word. However, when pausing to take a breath, the last letter should be recited with a Jazm and the following word should be started with 'Al'.

The first 8 beautiful names will be posted tomorrow inshallah.

(Photography and Editing by Zinah)

Love and Peace

رمضان كريم

2011-08-01T15:10:00.000+01:00

Ramadhan Karim everyone! رمضان كريم

"My name is Ramadhan and I will be visiting you from today with my wife Saum and two children Suhur and Iftar. We will be accompanied by three grandchildren Rahmat, Maghfira & Tawba.

We will leave in 29/30 days by Eid Airlines. Treasure us and you will be blessed."- Ramadhan

Have a blessed month, with lots of love, happiness and joy. May Allah give us all iman and taqwa and bless all our good deeds. Inshalllah we strive to get the baraqah of Ramadhan.

(Digital Illustration by Zinah)

Love and Peace

Ramadan

2011-07-31T00:02:00.005+01:00

It's the time of the year...Ramadan is tomorrow, a wonderful month I love. It's like another opportunity given to us muslims to better ourselves, outgrow ourselves, leave the bad deeds behind and increase our imaan.

RAMADAN KARIM

I have reflected back on everything I have done between the previous Ramadan and the one coming, realising there is so much I need to improve on and so much to learn. This year, I consider Ramadan as self-discovery and recovery. It is time for me to grow even closer to Allah, improve my character, behaviour, manners and deen.

I hope you feel the same way in trying to achieve things this Ramadan, small or big, anything really! I hope you all have a blessed month, with full of love, joy, happiness and grow closer to Islam and Allah.

Inshallah, I will try my very best to post everyday during this blessed month. For now, here are some of my plans and things I wanna achieve this Ramadan inshallah.

(Photography by Zinah)

Book list:
- Qur'an
- Stories of the Prophets (Peace be upon them)
- How to Become the Happiest Muslim Woman on Earth
- Ramadhan (Al Jumuah Books)
- Ramadhan (by Islam Channel)
- What a Muslim is Required to know about his Religion
- Solutions through Du'aas
- Solve Your Problems through the 99 Beautiful Names of Allah
- For those intending to Preform Hajj & 'Umrah

Love and Peace

Sabina

2011-07-28T00:02:00.013+01:00

My lovely friend Sabina Begum is a brilliant make-up artist. She has done several make-up looks for many people, including bridal. She was kind enough to work along with ZAHRA & ZINAH for a photoshoot.

She is a freelance make-up artist and specialises in Asian Bridal make-up, engagements/ parties or any special occasions. She's based in London and her passion for make-up is clearly shown in her amazing work.

At the moment, you can contact her through her email or add her as a friend on her business facebook profile.

These are the pictures from the behind the scenes of the ZAHRA & ZINAH photoshoot.
She has done the make-up on both our model Bashy and Zahra. The make-up look is just all neutral/ coral with a hint of gold.

For more make-up looks, you can see it on her Facebook profile.

(Photography by Zinah, last one by Amira)

Love and Peace

Blog Anniversary

2011-07-24T01:46:00.000+01:00

I started this blog exactly today, but one year ago. This blog went through many stages and has connected me with a great bloggers community! I've met so many lovely people through my blog, so many inspirational muslims, and oh so many countless stylish sisters from all over the world!

Alhamdulillah it has been a wonderful blog year. Without you guys, this blog would have been nothing!
Word can't describe how much each visit, each reader, and each follower mean to me! I love each one of you and thank you ever so much for your support and love!

I really wish I could have rewarded you with something better than a statement of how much I love you, but I have been crazy busy lately and didn't even get to blog much. Inshallah, I will surely reward you with a give away in the near future :)

HAPPY BRITHDAY ZINAH BLOG (is it weird wishing my blog a happy birthday?). I am so looking forward to many more blogging years to come and to meet so many lovely sisters through this :) Love you all!

Love and Peace

Revealed

2011-07-21T00:03:00.003+01:00

Revealed is a great radio show, its the voice of young Muslims. I was honoured when they invited me to one of their shows, to be interviewed about my blog.

I'm normally the one with the millions of questions, interviewing inspirational Muslims such as Elenany, Shea and HijabScarf, but being on the other side was completely nerve-racking!
I was so nervous, I didn't even know half of the things I was saying...and I wasn't prepared for it as well, it all came by surprise, but a very pleasant one!

Here is the full Podcast of the show:

11th July/ Episode No. 37 my interview starts in approximately 25mins into the show.

The three sisters, Kamillat, Zahra and Seliat were wonderful, they were great hostesses and made the show so insightful and interesting. Check the radio show out here

(Photography by Zinah, last one by this lovely guy, whos name I can't remember)

I'm wearing all Zara...

Love and Peace

Navy & Nude

2011-07-19T09:01:00.000+01:00

(Photography by Jihan)

Top with Necklace- Mango

Everything else- Zara

Love and Peace

American Dinner

2011-07-17T00:03:00.000+01:00

I'm usually not a fan of 'heavy' food, and try to eat it at a very minimum. Reason being; they get me so tired and lazy!

However, I must admit, it is yummy! In this case, I am talking about Tinseltown! They have a halal one in Bayswater, and that's what makes it even better. Their milkshakes are fabulous (especially the Ferrero Roche one!) and their french fries are so french! Literally, it had some garlic seasoning, which I absolutely loved.

I recommend everyone to visit HALAL Tinseltown in Bayswater/ London, nearest station is Bayswater Station.

( Photography by Zinah)

Love and Peace

Owl City

2011-07-05T00:08:00.009+01:00

(Photography by Jihan)

Black Jeans- Mango
Bag- Fred Perry
Everything else- Zara

Love and Peace

Tropical

2011-07-03T00:02:00.012+01:00

I am obsessed with nail polish and put it on every time I get the chance...once 1 month that is! Since brights are currently so trendy, I had to get orange and red nail polish...though I already have two reds already!

I love this colour...for now!

(Photography by Zinah)

Love and Peace

Pretty in Pink

2011-06-30T01:05:00.001+01:00

(Photography by Zinah & Samiha)

Everything is literally Zara! They should sponsor me. Anyone from Zara reading this, get the message across haha

Love and Peace