Miley, You Can Stop

Miley Cyrus, I put up with your accent during Hannah Montana because I'm a Disney fan. I loved "The Last Song" because it was based on a Nicholas Sparks novel and featured none other than Liam Hemsworth the babe. In fact, I won't lie, I'm 23 years old and "The Climb" is one of my favourite songs to belt out in the car whilst sitting in Sydney's revolting traffic situation.


But one thing I do not like, is your hair. Soz, I just don’t.

It’s okay though, who am I to judge? You’re obviously going through something traumatic in your life. Or maybe, just like every other woman out there, you just wanted a change.


Regardless, you hair isn’t really why I’m writing this blog. You see your try-hard, wannabe; OTT film clip actually kills my life. The whole Faux Lesbian girl thing has to go. I like that you’re edgy, but if you’re not careful it can lead to tacky.


The song however, couldn’t annoy me if it was on repeat for two weeks. True story, yes I’ve had it on repeat, what of it?! I absolutely ADORE the song. It's the best radio song to come out since Taylor Swift's catchy, yet winey "Weeeee are never, ever, everrrr, getting back together!!"


Enough fan-girling here. What I’m trying to say is, Miley, I understand you're trying to find your feet; I really do, but please stop trying to be a mix of Rihanna and Lady Gags.


I hope you’re not offended. We can totes still ride horses together (at Billy Ray Cyrus’ Ranch) in the summer time, or even sniff some coke if that’s what you’re into these days. **


Check out the vid below.












Are you a fan of slobbering Miley?



Wogarella,


X













** This author is a total health freak whom does not condone the usage of abusive drugs in any way, shape or form.

Image sourced from www.billboard.com.

An Honest Depiction of What Ramadan and Eid El Fitr Mean to Me

As Ramadan almost wraps up, millions of Muslim’s around the world will be preparing sweets in anticipation of Eid Al Fitr. As a child some of my fondest memories include sitting beside my mum on the dining table watching her form perfectly baked Maamoul and Seewa biscuits in celebration of the holiday to mark the end of Ramadan. For those who didn’t grow up in my Wogarella household during that last week of Ramadan, it means I got to witness my mother and older sisters take spring-cleaning to a whole new level. Every curtain was to be washed, every window seal wiped and every glass window shining bright, well you guessed it- like a diamond. It has been a long-standing tradition that as we break our fast each night and purify our body, we must do the same for our surroundings and ensure a clean and pure environment. Let’s just say that if you live in an area that’s highly populated with Muslim’s then you’re lucky to find a bottle of Windex left in the cleaning isle at Woolies.



Cleaning aside, the week before Eid meant and still does mean, I, along with my whole family get to taste the aforementioned scrumptious biscuits. To be quite honest, we usually double-check and taste test again purely because my mum’s handmade variety of semolina based biscuits stuffed with either dates, pistachios, and walnuts always have our mouths watering. Now, let me tell you, these high in butter, sugar, and everything that’s bad-for-you-but-tastes-amazing-nonetheless treats, filled the whole house with a warm aroma of rose water and lemon scented sugar syrup that will always remind me of this time of year.

Traditional Maamoul Bsicuits

I’ve always enjoyed fasting, from sunrise to sunset. I’ve never been much of a fan of the 4am wakeup call for breakfast before the sun goes up, so I usually skipped it and rode it out like a tough cookie and stuffed my face once the sun had come down. This year though, it was a little different, this year I was cursed with a horrid virus, followed by an injury which meant I would have to break my fast for the rest of Ramadan as my doctor has ordered me to consume a cocktail of pills/Syrups during the last two weeks of the Holy Month.


As many of you already know, anyone who falls ill or carries a pensioner’s card is excused from fasting and encouraged to instead donate a desired amount of money (for each day missed throughout the holy month) to a chosen charity or those whom are less fortunate.


This month I hope to send off my hard earned cash to people who can probably count the amount of times they have eaten pistachios or walnuts on one hand.



Now before I conclude this piece, I would like to share this video with you. Whilst it doesn’t have anything to do with my mother’s cholesterol infested biscuits, it showcases the true struggle of an innocent human being. I am by no means a Muslim spokesperson, simply a moderate Muslim girl growing up in Sydney who loves Miley Cyrus’ new song as much as the next person. However, as a girl with Muslim parents who have instilled strong values in me which are constantly being challenged and exercised, it pains me to see a girl only a few years older than my niece suffering so much due to the own fault of her parents who claim to be “Muslims”.


The video, for those who are wondering showcases a brave speech by 11-year-old Nada Al-Ahdal from Yemen, who ran away from home due to being forced into marriage by her parents.

It’s confronting isn’t it? I write this to you, because I know Muslims are often viewed in a negative light, some of which I admittedly believe deserve it because they’re extremists who prefer to hide behind one verse in a holy book, murder innocent civilians and claim they’re faithful. But this one is for all of the Muslim’s out there who don’t have a bad bone in their body. I wish you and your families “Eid Mubarak,” or “Happy Eid” for our more westernised Muslims.







Wogarella,



Xx


*Photo Sourced from my Auntie's iPhone as my mother is yet to send me a pic!

Weddings. What’s all the fuss about?

Weddings. There’s so much planning that is involved in executing that one special day that should commemorate the love you and your partner share.

Whether you plan an extravagant wedding in an Italian Vinyard, come from a Hindu background where the wedding is a full-on 3-day party event, or opt to have an intimate ceremony by the beach, it’s one of the most important days of your life.

I've always been a fan of the Backless Dress. Now I understand why all of these brides consume nothing but chia seeds and Spirulina for up to 6 months before the big event. 

Blame It on The Culture

As someone with a Lebanese mother and Syrian father, I think I’ve probably been to more weddings than I can remember. In fact, I am usually strapped for cash, and rushing around frantically trying to find last minute outfits for sometimes up to 3 weddings in the one-month. Cray Cray, I know! My sisters and I have a code word for the month of September, better known as “Wedding Season.” I’ll let you guys in on our personal joke; it’s the season when all of the Mohammad’s /Ali’s we’ve grown up with eventually marry a Fatima’s or a Zeineb. Gotta love a good stereotype. 

But despite the huge weddings, with the traditional drums, delicious mezze’s and crazy dancing, I have never been one to plan even one aspect of my future wedding. This may or may not be because I’m still single.  Or so my mum says. I think I missed that important conversation in time when all of the girls relished at the thought of a tulle dress, the perfect up-do and posies in hand. Maybe it happened when most girls were combing their Barbie’s hair (don’t understand how, I swear I always managed to ruin mine), meanwhile I would’ve been out in the backyard catching lizards with my brother or riding my bike.

When It Just Hits You 

You see, up until about 3 months ago, I was actually impressed with my lack of enthusiasm in that department. That’s not to say I don’t jump for joy when one of my girlfriends announce an engagement or am not the first to get involved in Hen’s Parties. Actually I kind of have a long-standing tradition which always involves me lining up to tackle the bitch that tries to catch that cheap bouquet of flowers the bride throws in attempt to get that fat cherub, better known as cupid to get his ass moving along. I know, how very immature, and superstitious. The reality is I don’t expect my prince charming to astonishingly show up to that same wedding, or even bump into me in the fruit and veg isle at woolies a week later. Maybe I watch too many romantic comedies, but I’m just competitive, so winning that bouquet is just icing on top of that cake. Which, I of course, usually end up avoiding, unless I’m wearing my trusty spanx.

6 months ago I viewed this as a bunch of pretty flowers. Nowadays it's better known as a "Pastel Floral Arrangement"

Social MediaWins the Wedding-Mania Enabler Award

But more to the point, over the past few months, I’ve had suggested wedding related pages popping up all over my Facebook. Initially that’s how it started. I’d like a wedding dress here, a pair of ridiculously simple, yet gorgeous heels there. Until, all of a sudden, I’ve become a wedding enthusiast. My Instagram newsfeed is full of wedding inspired pictures. I thought that was what Pinterest was all about. Hence why I used and abused it for about a week.  My iPhone conveniently alerts me to the exceeded storage limit it currently holds on the daily as well. It wasn’t until I went through my whole camera roll that I had realised how deep I was in. I had saved hundreds of images, as well and screen shots depicting everything from unique floral arrangements, bridesmaid’s dresses to hairspiration pics. I was confused, embarrassed which lead me to even contemplating the thought of making a separate album to file said images. And that’s when it hit me; I’ve been sucked in like the rest. No, it has nothing to do with hormones, or my passion for beauty, but I am addicted to collecting wedding-related images. It’s almost a modern day type of scrapbooking activity towards an event that can’t even take place because I haven’t met the man yet!

Exhibit A: Favourite Insta Page

Wedding Obsession Detox 101 

  

Whilst I’m no longer catching lizards, I’ve managed to delete any screenshots I probably won’t need in the distant future. My phone has finally stopped pestering me about the lack of storage it can hold, and I’ve even limited myself to only liking one Bridal Magazine page, a Wedding Blog and Steven Khalil’s official Facebook page.

Have I completely lost the plot? Has anyone else experienced the sudden need to search for #wedding hashtags at least once a week?

Wogarella,

Xx

*Images unashamedly sourced from the author's phone. 

Mila Kunis: Hilarious Interview

I've said this before. Mila Kunis is one woman I would happily become friends with. Part of the reason is she can go from looking all average-like in sweatpants, yes actual sweatpants- minus a fake tan and full face of makeup (take note Kimmy K!) to an elegant femme fatale in a stunning Oscar de la Renta gown. 

Personally I think she is so underrated. Mila is petite, has a lovely smile and those big googly eyes make me, a heterosexual woman go absolutely gaga. So you can understand how I felt when I had a conversation with a mate the other day; whereby he confidently assured me he “just doesn't get it.” He doesn't see the light that surrounds Miss.Kunis. I was completely dumbfounded. It's a good thing this conversation was done so via text, because I seriously considered disowning him as my friend.  

My hardcore fandom stems from my brother’s interest in Mila. We’ve rated Mila Kunis as an actress since her That 70s Show days, fell back in love with her after watching Friends with Benefits and laughed along as she strutted her stuff on screen in Ted.


More than Just a Pretty Face 


I think, the most refreshing thing about this Hollywood A-Lister is her personality. No, I don't mean her pleasant speeches which have probably been rehearsed thanks to her publicist. I mean her genuine laughter, sarcastic tone and dead set down to earth charismatic behaviour. As a Mila lover, I won't lie; I've noticed it in interviews with the likes of the "Chatty Man" Alan Carr, as well as with Ellen. But, this interview is a true insight into how effing hilarious she is.  


Weirdo girl-crush aside, watch the video! 

 
PS Mila said she likes beer. 

PPS Mila said she would like to watch a Football Game. 

I'm fairly certain Ashton Kutcher is cheering right about now!   


Wogarella, 

Xx  

2013 Grammy Award Red Carpet

Oh nothing makes me happier than a red carpet watch on a rainy day in Sydney! Of course, whilst the Grammy Awards celebrate excellence in music and praise musicians for their talent, I have my own little version of awards to announce, and it’s regarding the best and the worst fashion and beauty choices on the red carpet.

Wax On- Wax Off

I had two look twice, if you ask me JT looks as though he has decided the skip the red carpet and instead send his very own wax statue from Madame Tussauds.

Floral Mess

Adele in Valentino

Now Adele has never been stick thin and that’s something I think is great, she works with what she has! But I’m just not sure about this frumpy looking dress. Whilst florals are all the rage, I refuse to mix two different patterned florals together; the shoes would be lovely with a different dress.

Actually... something about this dress reminds me of the old school Knitted Dolly Toilet Roll Holders. What do you think?

  

Return of the Mummies

Giuliana Rancic, in Carlos Miele, I won’t lie you’re a gorgeous little minx; however I don’t understand why you’re channeling a mummy? She almost appears to have no neck. At first I thought it may have been due to the colour of the fabric, but she’s beautifully tanned, the fact that her dress has a high neck just means she should have opted to put her hair up. Meanwhile, I think Tamia got the same memo as Giuliana, she too thinks the dress code was inspired by the Pharaohs.

Students from the Class of 2005 High School called, they said they want their formal look back.

Kaya Jones, I don’t know what she was thinking when she picked this dress. The smokey-eye is and the cherry lips are just far too much at one time. Also, whilst her makeup artist has tried to use a blend of silvers and greys, her eyes actually look to be almost blue and battered. The Dress is just not Grammys worthy. However, the colour is pretty, but I just wish she covered her cleavage up a little, she looks too cheap-prom-queen for my liking.

All American Hottie

I didn’t even know who Keltie Colleen was, but after strutting herself in this sexy number I’m definitely a fan. I love, love, love it all! Everything from the gorgeous flowy skirt, the jewel encrusted bodice, to the yellow pumps. Her makeup is fairly neutral and I love that she is wearing minimal accessories, less is SO much more and it’s evident that a good haircut/colour does wonders too.  

Cute as a Button

  

Alexa Chung looks adorable in this Valentino number. What made her stand out amongst the rest was that she looks as though she’s thrilled to be there, almost like a little girl who is proud to be wearing pretty party dress. Which makes sense really, Alexa is wearing a pretty dress to the party of all parties! Her sparkly Mary Janes give her look that extra bit of glamour. Oh and she could never go wrong with a powerful red pout.

Grecian Goddess

I know, I know. I need to move on. But girl crushes aside, Taylor looks radiant in this Grecian style White gown by J. Mendal. I know she’s rocked the Grecian style before, but the braided hair teamed with that statement making front fringe is a clear winner if you ask me. Her makeup artists ALWAYS get it right, I wish Kaya Jones’ team would take note, if you’re heavy on the eyes, keep the lips soft and neutral.

 Show Stopper

Everyone knows it’s brave to wear a red frock on the Red carpet, but I think Riri pulled it off! I’m actually Gobsmacked. Rihanna has been known to funk it up in every way possible, in terms of taking fashion-related risks, only being beaten by Lady Gaga and her infamous meat dress.  Regardless, I’m so glad she has come back to her senses and channelled a bit of glamour. With all the makeup and crazy hair colours we tend to forget that Rihanna truly is a pretty young thing.

Oh and P.S. Besides the fact that she annoys me, I have to admit that her music makes for great listening at the gym.  

Fabulous Fairy

One half of the famous Gotye duo, Miss Kimbra looks absolutely stunning. This dress is ridic! Whilst I probably couldn’t deal with the tulle fabric, I think Jamie Lee Major did an epic job at making a unique dress for a girl with a unique dress. Actually I don’t care if I had her banging body and the money to buy it; I would happily sit there excessively scratching my body like a diseased person throughout an awards ceremony. LOVE!

Who were your favoutites? Was I too harsh on Adele? Are you now googling Miss. Keltie Colleen as well? Or maybe that was just me...

Wogarella,

Xx

Images sourced from www.styleite.com/Ryansearcrest.com  

Wogarella: Call me Vlog-arella!

Lovers, today I would like to share with you my latest venture. You see, last night I ventured into the Video blogging territory, better known as "Vlogging". Yes, I popped my cherry. And now I'm thinking that I am an absolute twit for not having started earlier! 

The thing is, I'm a writer, always have been and probably always will be. Before I realised I was a writer I was (and still am) an avid reader. I'm also a viewer, (Shamelessly admit to watching Taylor Swift fan videos.)  So I figured, that with my Macbook in hand, I would hover over the iMovie application and and actually make use of my boisterous personality, which I hope comes across through my writing. 

On the Band Wagon:

I'm aware that Vlogging isn't something new and have always considered it, but the catalyst for my entry into the youtube-loving-life was an application to become a reader reviewer/vlogger for all 'round expert website rescu.com.au. It's no secret that I'm a  little beauty obsessed, so when the opportunity arose to apply for this role, I jumped on it as soon as I could! 

The Vid:

I'm sure you're itching to hear the voice behind Wogarella, so here it is:

What do you think? It's my first Vlog, so I was a little shy. Your feedback is more than welcome!

Ps I know there is a random red screen that pops up initially, but please ignore it as I'm still figuring out how to use iMovie ha.

Wogarella,

Xx 

Open Letter to Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift: Marry DateEd Sheeran, why don’t you!

It’s nosecret that I have a BIG LESBIAN CRUSH* on Taylor Swift. I have always admiredher gorgeous looks and witty little remarks. Her YouTube videos are quite thecack! Often people ask me why, I as a Wogarella, who is usually such a homie,and counts Boys To Men and Mariah Carey as music’s finest artists happen to bedrawn to Taylor’s music.

There are a number of contributingfactors. But the most essential one is her ability to write honest, songs. I’mnot talking about “Love Story” or “Never Ever Getting Back Together” here. Thegirl has the ability to tell a story, she captures my emotions with thesincere, sometimes harsh words, which in conjunction with a delightful melody,takes me to another place.

And for a while I’ve beencopping it as a self confessed Swiftie, I don’t care. Maybe Taylor enjoysdating man after man. It’s her choice. I’m not here to stick up for her andsadly her moments of despair and sadness only bring her fans more incrediblesongs. It’s pretty selfless if you ask me!

Anyway, I got to thinking… Is there amale equivalent of T-swizzle? I’m not sure; would you judge these male artistson the quality of their voice? Their live performances, perhaps? Or maybe theircute film clips? I know, I can’t rank them based on their looks. But after muchdeliberation, I believe that Mr Ed Sheeren is the boy version of Taylor.

Funnily enough, they are incrediblytalented, hard working and just downright lovable! They've writtenand released a song together; I've posted it for those of you who havebeen living under a rock.

What did you think? Lovely isn’t it?Easy listening.

If I could write Taylor anopen letter I would say his:

Yo Tswizzle,

Love your guts. I saw youlive in Sydney April 2012. You made my year :)

Just a quick note, quitdating these pretty boy twelvie-type boys. Man up and hook in with the world’smost lovable Ranga! Ed Sheeren.

Oh and P.S. Thanks forinspiring my non-existent love life!

Much love,

Wogarella xx

Could you imagine if Miss.Tay-Tay andEd Sheeren were a couple? I can see them now, living happily ever after withthree lanky, ranga kids roaming the streets of Nashville in summer, andavoiding a bashing in wintery Manchester. All I know is the music would befabulous. Whether they went out for a year, or had an eternal romance.

What do you think? Am I a little tooobsessed? Have I listened to too many Taylor/Ed Sheeran songs back to back?

*That was a Mean Girls quote. Not sofunny when you have to explain it, dummy!

 Wogarella,

Xx