Showing posts with label fashion. Show all posts
Showing posts with label fashion. Show all posts

Friday, 26 July 2013

What you should know about buying a bra from Curvy Kate

I had heard of Curvy Kate for a while but had never tried one anything from the lingerie range before. The Curvy Kate bloggers event at The Owl & Pussycat earlier this month was the best place for me to learn more about the brand and why it’s a good option for ladies with ample bosom.


All ladies go through the difficulty of trying to find the perfect bra, the high street hasn’t always been the ideal place for varied sizes but things are slowly changing. It’s hard to cater for all when we all come in so many sizes but with brands like Curvy Kate aiming to put the needs of customers first there is hope for a better selection of quality lingerie for women who range from D-K cups. 

The Curvy Kate team showed off the spring/summer 2013 and autumn/winter 2013 collections and giving us a sneak peek of what’s to come next summer.  This was a mini-catwalk show featuring the brand’s models that all looked gorgeous in the sets and had some fun with the audience. After the team’s designer Charlotte and PR and marketing manager, Hannah took us through the new collections while expressing their passion for lingerie.


Curvy Kate Model Lotte Williams wearing Princess and Lola sets

There were a couple of highlights from the evening that I thought I would share with you. These include things are a closely related to the brand and general bra buying advice.

The ladies in attendance had so much fun eating cupcakes and playing bra bingo!


Look out for the SS14 strapless bra called Luxe. This is first strapless bra for the brand. It has vertical seams it’s different from a moulded strapless bra because the vertical seams give more support, structure and body contouring.

Some adaptions have been made to the straps for women who have narrow shoulders. This means the straps have been nipped in a bit as some struggled with straps slipping off. 

My favourties from AW13 are Daisy Chain and Gia they each have that mesh upper detail and come in range a subtle shades ideal for the season. From SS14 I’m a fan of Dreamcatcher and Ritzy the latter has a pinstripe overlay that is super seductive.

Left: I am holding the Dreamcatcher bra. Right: My Portia set, bra 30F and briefs size 12

At the end of the evening we all got fitted and to take a set home I chose Portia a balcony bra that is I like for everyday. I feel the cups offer more coverage than other bra styles giving you a nice lift, shape and fit.

Two things to remember when looking for the perfect bra:

The measurement around the back is important to the fit of the bra. This area gives you support and helps to lift your boobs upwards.

You’re most likely to fit into two sizes but opt for the size that is smaller in the back and larger in the cup to get maximum support.

Shop Curvy Kate on ShopStyle:

Monday, 3 June 2013

Seek & Revive Vintage Kilo Sale

Last Saturday I went over to the Seek & Revive Vintage Kilo sale at The Oval Space East London.
It was only the second time the event had been held there, I had read great things about it before hand so I thought I would get involved in some thrifty fun. The Oval Space is a warehouse building tucked behind a main high road, it's great location for a shopping event like this. I arrived there just after the doors opened at 11am and went straight inside to rummage through the stacks of clothing.




Inside there were lots rails of full of second-hand and vintage clothing. I spotted rails dedicated to vintage jeans, varsity jackets, floral shirts and woolly jumpers - this place is a haven for vintage lovers. It's a really cool idea to attract people who love recycling clothing and for those like me who are open to trying out a different approach to shopping. I enjoyed looking through the quirky pieces, wondering who wore them first and how?


If you like people watching like me, this is also a good place to spot some cool streetstyle. A couple of the girls I saw picked up some unique pieces including box bags and tea dresses in good condition. I think if you get there super early you’ll pick up the best stuff.



 

Outside the space there is also a cute spot for people to grab a refreshment, chill out and head back inside for some more shopping.

The way the kilo sale works is you can buy as many clothes and accessories as you want at £15 a kilo - pretty purse-friendly don't you think? That works out to be about four or five items all together. I didn’t find that many things to buy so I didn’t purchase anything but I would definitely go back as it’s nice to try something different every once and a while.

Seek & Revive is held every month the next pop up sale is at Concrete 16th June. Find out more about it here.

Are you a vintage fashion fan? 

Bianca x

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Thursday, 16 May 2013

#ThrowbackThursday – My style

I love looking back at old photographs of the family. When I was going through the huge boxes of pictures, I thought I’d pick out my favourite fashion styles from back in the day and share them with you. Some of these photos are so random I’m sure my parents would just take photos to finish the film in the camera nevertheless those pictures capture so many funny memories and great style.

In my collection of photos I noticed I had thing for yellow and matching sets, two trends that are actually in season right now.

Yellow was one of my favourite colours growing up. I had no problem pretending to be the yellow Power Ranger in the playground, while the rest of the girls fought over who would be pink. As you can see most of my formal wardrobe consisted of yellow dress or sets with matching hair bobbles and clips (thanks mum). I had some really colourful clothes when I was younger, I wasn't too fussy with what things I wanted to wear - to be honest I don't think I had a choice, but I trusted my mum with her choices and complained if I didn't feel comfortable.



The first two pictures are photos taken for play group when I was two and three, I can't image they do professional pictures at play groups now but mine must have been a posh one - ha. The picture below on the beach was taken in Blackpool on a sunny yet windy day, notice the layering there? My final yellow outfit must have been taken between the ages of one or two, the cardigan is massive on me but looks cute.


 


Co-ordinates, two pieces, matching sets - whatever you call them I wore a lot of them. Mine consisted of t-shirt and shorts combo for the summer holidays. Two of these photos were taken in Florida and the other just in our back garden. I think this look only works well if the clothing is in print, I'm going to try and redo the style for this summer but chose crop tops and skirts and maybe casual suit sets instead. 

What's are your favourite #ThrowbackThursday styles?

Bianca x

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Tuesday, 16 April 2013

Wishlist: Monki picks

Monki favourites

Monki favourites by bee2010 featuring
1. Malou singlet, £12
2. Raphaela necklace, £12
3. Minne trousers, £20
4. Karen sunglasses, £8
5. Novali dress, £20
6. Brighton tee, £15
7. Wren sandal, £35

I don't know if you have noticed but the Monki website has been revamped. It's easier to browse around the clothing and accessories categories now, I spotted a couple things I'd love for SS13. I normally don't buy clothing with a lot of print in it but I was really drawn to these pieces. The Novali dress is my top pick, it's the perfect combination of smart/casual and I think it would look great paired with the white sandals. I haven't bought any kind of peplum outfit yet so I'd have to give this a try on first. If there was only one item I could get my hands on, it would have to be the Brighton tee because I love a raglan jersey they are so comfortable and ideal for everyday style. I can imagine pairing this tee with red lipstick or pale pink trousers or boyfriend jeans. If I get round purchasing any of these I'll be sure to do an outfit post.

Tell me what are your favourite SS13 high street picks? 

Bianca x


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Friday, 12 April 2013

#WorldWideWardrobe

Up for a challenge? Travel Supermarket have launched a great competition that combines travel and fashion. The travel site are giving fashion bloggers the chance to win a holiday and an outfit of choice.

To enter you have to do is create a blog post featuring an outfit within the budget of £200 for one or more of the following places enjoying various activities:

- Sightseeing in Paris
- Clubbing in Ibiza
- Shopping in London
- Cocktails in New York
- Partying at a Full Moon Party in Thailand

Enter all five categories to be in the running to win all holidays, or just one or two, to be in with a chance of winning a holiday to that destination.

I have chosen to enter Cocktails in New York, Clubbing in Ibiza and Partying at a Full Moon Party in Thailand.

I used Polyvore to put my three outfits together:


Cocktails in New York

Cocktails

Cocktails by bee2010 featuring
Mesh T Shirt All in One - Topshop £38
Nly Shoes Camael - Nelly.com £37.95
Evie Neon Oversized Envelope Clutch - Boohoo £15
Adia Kibur 2 Layer Chain Necklace - Shopbop.com £33.75
TOPSHOP Lips in Brighton - Topshop £10
Total - £134.75 


I imagine there's nothing more fabulous than sipping cocktails in the city just like Carrie Bradshaw and co, so for this occasion I'd wear an all-in-one and amp it up with some bright accessories. A jumpsuit is ideal for relaxed glamour, I chose this one because the mesh insert at the front and split detail at the back, give an otherwise plain one-piece subtle sex appeal. I added a chain necklace as a neutral accessory but for the rest I thought the outfit needed a pop of colour to match the bright lights of the Big Apple so I picked out a pair of sunshine yellow strappy heels and a clutch to match. I finished off the look with some pink lipstick to contrast the yellow shade.

Clubbing in Ibiza
Partying

Clubbing by bee2010 featuring 
Black fringed backless boxy crop top - River Island £25
bambam Neon Aztec Print Shorts - New Look £45
FUN Gladiator Flat Sandals - ASOS £45
20 pack bracelet - H&M £3.99
Fringe Cross-body Bag - Victoria's Secret £24
Total - £97.99

I'm pretty low maintenance when it comes to getting ready to party, that's why I love clubbing on holiday. You don't have to dress up in heels, apply tons of makeup or fuss with your hair. Of course you need to make a lil' effort and for the hedonistic paradise that is Ibiza it's all about mixing comfort and style together. With that in mind I chose a fun and flirty crop top with fringing detail and paired that with some jazzy shorts. I don't think I could get any with wearing these denim shorts anywhere but a festival or in Ibiza, they are just perfect for summer. Comfortable footwear is esstential while raving so I opted for some sturdy gladiator sandals in metallic. Another must-have is a cross body bag, without one of those you can't throw your hands in the air, so that was an obvious choice for me.

Partying at a Full Moon Party in Thailand

partying thailand
Partying by bee2010 featuring leather sandals
Sweet Stud Clutch - Nastygal £32
Hope Sunglasses - Monki £8.52
Layered disc earrings - Dorothy Perkins £4
Black bustier bikini top - River Island £16
MOTO 50s high waist hotpants - Topshop £28
Lace Cut Out Shoulder Beach Cover Up - ASOS £25
FIGARO Cross Strap Sandals - Topshop £45
Total - £158.52

Thailand is one place I'd love to visit because it's a create combination of a beach and cultural holiday. I've heard great things about the Full Moon Party in Thailand it's an ideal setting to rock some light pieces. For this occasion I'd wear a monochrome outfit. Given the hot temperature a kaftan seems appropriate, I chose the cut-out cover up from ASOS as it looks super light, I added a bustier and high waist hotpants for underneath as I think those pieces best suit my shape. The chosen accessories chosen complement the black and white palette, I especially like the sweet stud clutch as it has a chain inside so it can be worn across the body.

I've entered loads of travel competitions recently because I'm so desperate to getaway, I think this has to be the one of the best so far because goes beyond answering one question and it's interactive.

As a part of the entry process you have to nominate five bloggers that you think will be up for the challenge using #worldwidewardrobe on Twitter or Facebook. My fabulous five are:

Trinawears
Let's Get Lippy
Sophia Bella
PopGoesFashion
ChanniChic

If you want to make an entry see more at: http://www.travelsupermarket.com/c/holidays/worldwide-wardrobe/

Tell me what you think of my three outfits, feel free to leave a comment below.


GOOD LUCK! 

Bianca x

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Thursday, 4 April 2013

Trending: Monochrome SS13

The black and white combo is super hot for the SS13 season. I've seen so many pieces on the high street that I'm tempted to buy but I think I'll wait for the weather to pick up before I go on a spring shopping spree.

I've been keeping a eye out for monochrome seen on celebs, in stores and across fashion blogs. Here are my top picks.

I was a fan of Beyonce's Osman jumpsuit that she wore to this year's Grammy Awards. I think chunky blocks of monchrome on this outfit appear easier on the eye compared to narrow horizontal stripes or checkboard patterns that you see on other pieces. I spotted a dress from ASOS similar to this style, I've included it on my Polyvore board below.

Photo: Getty Images

Another celeb fave is Rochelle Humes' ka-yute babydoll dress that she wore on a night out in London. Even though this dress is probably maternity but I love it. It's nice how she is rocking the monochrome trend without being too over-the-top. Less is more peeps.

Photo: Rex

My high street favourites for the colour constrasting trend come from my Polyvore board. It's nice that there's so much variety with this trend. It seems like there's is something for everything shape and size plus monochrome accessories make a good pairing for bright clothing, I shall invest for the summer.

Monochrome ss13

Tell me how will you wear this season's monochrome trend?

Bianca x

Friday, 22 March 2013

What to wear to an interview

I have been job hunting for a few months now and continually need a new interview outfit each time I go to one. I don't have a particular outfit for an interview but since they are for media companies, I am dressing in a smart/casual style.

Today I had an interview with a big media/entertainment company for an editorial internship. Before the formal interview took place, all candidates were introduced to the company by the HR department and we were shown a series of videos about the brand and what the internship programme is like. I have to say those clips got me all excited about potentially working there. Eek!

Being in the same room as people who are fighting for the same job as you was different but at the same time it's good to meet others who just want the same break as you. Best of luck to us all.

Anyway so here is what I wore:

Shirt - New Look £16.99
Jeggings - H&M really old
Boots - Topshop a couple seasons ago
Bag - Not in stores

During my last New Look haul I picked up a long-sleeved polka dot shirt that I thought would be perfect for the meeting. It buttons up all the way to the neck and has fastenings on the sleeves too but I chose to roll them up. I teamed the shirt with dark denim jeggings from H&M and some black Topshop boots.

When no one else is around to take my pic a mirror image will do ;-)

I thought the polka dot button down shirt was a great blend between trendy and smart. While my dark denim jeggings were a good option for a casual laid back style.

I had to bring an iPad with my so I took my new bag out. It's a black tote with studded detail. I got it from my aunt who buys tons of bags from a wholesaler and sells them on.

It can be worn three ways, one by the short handle, on the shoulder using the strap I attached which is like a chain and the other is longer so the bag can be worn across the body. Finally I had to wear some boots because it's still too cold to wear flats :-( booo. Bring on spring already!

What is your interview/meeting style like?

Bianca x

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Tuesday, 19 March 2013

Birthday outfit post

On Monday it was my 24th birthday!!! I had a really lovely day with my family and received some sweet well wishes from friends.

In the afternoon I went to Frankie & Benny's to have lunch with my sis and niece and then had to dash home to get ready for dinner with the rest of the family.

My brother booked us a table at the Dover Street Restaurant in Mayfair for dinner. I'll do another post on that so you read a bit about what it was like.


I haven't done an outfit post in forever so I thought this special occasion would be a good time to share my latest style with you. Last week I bought a new aztec-style printed vest top from New Look using the rest of my gift card. I have previously purchased two tops in the same style, they are great to wear dressed up or down and are perfect for holidays. 


Yesterday's weather was typical for the UK with sun, rain and clouds all making an appearance. In great timing it poured down with rain as we left for the restaurant, so I paired my aztec top with black skinny trousers from River Island and my new Primark heels plus a massive envelope clutch which carried all my necessities.

Top - New Look £14.99
Trousers - River Island £30
Shoes - Primark £12
Clutch - Primark £8

Bianca x


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Monday, 11 March 2013

Best of Fashion Week AW13

Since the hoopla of fashion month is over it’s time to share my picks for top trends for AW13. These are just a small selection of the styles that caught my eye along with trends that I’d like to incorporate in my wardrobe later this year.
Animal print

Photos Style.com (Burberry Prorsum, DKNY, Moschino Cheap and Chic, Tracey Reese, Tom Ford and Versace)

I love animal prints so I was happy to see DKNY collection lead the way with models head-to-toe in bold leopard print looks. Across the pond Christopher Bailey stunned with a Burberry collection heavy in animal print mixed with tough texture and metallic accents. One of my favourite looks was a black and cream animal print dress. Most designers opted for leopard spots or zebra stripes, I’m looking forward to see how this style will be interpreted by the high street.

Under arm bag

Photos Style.com (Marni, Topshop Unique, Chanel and Victoria Beckham)

This is one trend we can rock now, carrying a bag no matter the shape or size as a clutch. It isn’t practical in reality if you have a huge handbag, but it looks so cool. Strangely enough I’ve already found myself carrying my messenger bag under my arm as if it doesn’t have a strap. Victoria Beckham has been papped hugging her bag instead of holding the handles and Kate Moss posed for the SS13 Givenchy campaign cradling a bowling bag, it’s only a matter of time before this trend catches on. It’ll be the new wearing-your-coat-on-your-shoulders-like-it’s-a-cape kinda thing.

Pink

Photos Style.com (Rodarte, Dries Van Noten, Roksanda Illincic, Sister by Sibling, Moschino Cheap and Chic, Topshop Unique)

Rose, fuchsia and cerise were prominent across the fashion capitals for AW13. A pastel pink suit was a showstopper at Rodarte, while sprinkles of pink were seen at Roksanda Illincic and Unique where a jumpsuit and overcoat featured in pink hues. It is said to become a staple colour rather like black, camel and white next season. I wouldn’t normally associate pink with this season but I’m interested to see how it can work and what shades will be popular.

A-line silhouette 

Photos Style.com (Lanvin, Jonathan Saunders, Holly Fulton, Nina Ricci)

The A-line silhouette seemed to be highlight across the catwalks for AW13. Skater skirts were huge in AW12 as a staple separate and I’m happy to see them again for the following winter as it’s a style that works for all shapes and sizes. 

What AW13 trends are you keeping an eye out for?

Bianca x

Tuesday, 19 February 2013

Black stud strap wedge hi-tops

I went to the New Look SS13 press day back in November and was given a gift card in a goody bag. Can you believe up until now I hadn’t spent it?! I’m really good at resisting a shopping splurge but caved last week when I wondered onto the New Look site.


I came across these all black wedge hi tops, I’ve been a fan of this style of trainer hybrid for a while but never felt I could pull them off because A. I’ve got skinny ankles and B. I don’t think they look cute on any woman with feet larger than a UK 4.

Despite all my hesitations I purchased them. I like this pair from New Look because they are all black from toe to heel and reasonable in price at £27.99 which means I can buy some other things with my gift card.

There are a lot of high street versions of the wedge hi-top available right now, so if all goes well with this pair I’ll invest in another pair.

What do you think of New Look’s Wedge Hi-Tops?

Bianca x

Tuesday, 5 February 2013

Style crush: Ciara

Tomboy chic has gone mainstream this season. Varsity jackets, football jerseys and tracksuits are hot picks for channelling the sports luxe style for SS13.

One celeb that I think nails this style perfectly is Ciara. Her sense of style has always been inspired by menswear but now she has turned up her fashion ante and is mixing Jordans with a slice of Givenchy and Giuseppe Zanotti.


 

Each of her outfits over the past couple of weeks have been casual, I like how she spices up a simple trouser and tee combo with some chunky chains, a leather pant or some trainers.  

 

 
Photos: Ciara Instagram/Tumblr

Who is your celeb style inspiration?

Bianca x

Sunday, 13 January 2013

Trending SS13: Holographic details

Silver metallics and holographic tones were spotted on the catwalks of Alexander Wang, Jonathan Saunders and Burberry for SS13.

Images: Style.com

I have noticed a couple of new season items on the high street channeling this trend.

On the catwalk clothing was the focus for the silver highlights but while it looks cool I don't think that can transcend well for everyday wear.
Holographic accessories

I think the best way to tap into the metallic/holographic trend is through accessories including shoes, bags, belts and even nails.


If I had to pick I'd go for nails and a clutch. I'm thinking of trying out the Topshop Nails shades In Plume and Eclipse.


 What SS13 are you most looking forward to?

Bianca x

Wednesday, 14 November 2012

Style crush: Demi Lovato on the X Factor USA

The new season of the X Factor USA bought new judges, new categories and a new style star. I think Demi Lovato’s fashion choices for the show have been spot on so far. During the auditions she mixed smart and sophisticated looks together with casual cool outfits. With most ensembles coming from Topshop it's no surprise that her style is in the spotlight. Here is a selection of my favourite looks so far.

Live Shows 2

Demi wore this jacquard blazer for the second live show which she teamed with a plain black shirt dress from the Topshop Unique collection. The Skyscraper singer made her outfit pop by teaming her ruby red jacket with a scarlet lipstick. 

Get Demi's look:

Demi on the X Factor USA


Silk dress, £105 / Topshop metallic blazer, £88 / River Island black wedge sandals, £55

Auditions

Demi wears this dip dye-style jacket with a simple LDB. I like clothes with different textures that make the eyes dance. This is a fun and flirty look that is perfect for a night out.

Get Demi's look:

Demi Lovato X Factor USA


Oasis bandage dress / Faux fur coat, £110 / Steve Madden platform heels / Dorothy Perkins , £8.79 / Lip makeup, £11 / NARS Cosmetics


Finalists party


Demi wore this red skater-style skirt and leather jacket to party to celebrate the X Factor Finalist. I never used to be a fan of the colour red but it's actually a great shade that suits all skin shades. Demi made the dress the centre of attention here by keeping accessories to a minimum.

Get Demi's look: 

Demi Lovato X Factor USA 2

Glamorous ponte dress / Blonde + Blonde leather jacket / NYX white lipstick




What do you think of Demi's X Factor USA style? 

Bianca x

Saturday, 10 November 2012

Sunday, 4 November 2012

My top three autumn winter shades

Girls and guys it's the season for coats, cardigans, jumpers and boots - autumn has arrived.

While shopping for my new season wardrobe there are three shades that I have gravitated towards.

Red burgundy, deep purple and dark khaki.

I'll be mixing my neutral base colours made up of black, white and beige with these three colours to make my outfits.

So far I have bought a military style coat from ASOS...

Had my nails done in Shellac in a deep purple shade...


And bought a pair of mid-rise skinny trousers from River Island...


What are you buying for the new season?

Bianca x

Tuesday, 9 October 2012

Best of Fashion Week SS13

Fashion Week is all about new collections and trends but what happens at the events can be equally as exciting. This season involved wacky designs, FROW fights and Twitter spats. So I have rounded up my pick of the best gossip, trends and styles from fashion month spring/summer 2013.

New York Fashion Week

Image: Style.com

Zac Posen – Oh dear! It was only amount of time before the claws came out on the FROW. The most surprising thing about this cat fight is that it was between a guest and Posen’s PR. The scrabble for seats got real when Jalouse stylist Jennifer Eymere slapped the PR across the face to humiliate her because she had embarrassed them. The best part of the whole thing was Jennifer’s quote: “Now you know you don't fuck with French people.” – Nice!

London Fashion Week


Image: Style.com

Burberry Prorsum – Christopher Bailey’s metallic trench coat finale was one of the most talked about moments of London Fashion Week.  While at my desk I managed to catch the last few minutes of the show on livestream. A rainbow of Burberry trenches from fuchsia to teal made a strong statement and highlighted the versatility of the Burberry staple. 


Nasir Mazhar – Designers and artists like Nasir are the reason why London Fashion Week has such cool credentials. For his first foray into clothing and accessories, he transformed the Topshop show space into hairdressers/barbers, a super enhanced one. The setting was all about the blend of music and fashion in East London and that’s what I loved about it. The aesthetics were very 90s, tracksuits, mesh tops and mini-skirts made up the collection, models had long decorated talons and grime MC's rapped throughout.

Milan Fashion Week


Image: Style.com

Prada – Umm, I’m not sure about Miuccia's toe socks but they are interesting to look at. However it’s the socks and sandals combo that I just can’t get over. Everything else, bravo!

Paris Fashion Week 


Image: Style.com

Kenzo – Back on the radar of ‘cool’ fashion the Kenzo show was highly anticipated for SS13. Unfortunately for the logo lovers there was no sight of the label’s letters splashed across jumpers and tees. For next season I am a fan of the safari/jungle collection that featured tropical prints (in neon), utility gear and interesting silhouettes.  


Image: Style.com

Chanel – I don’t always find the Chanel collections to be as exciting as the spectacular event that it has become. However one thing that was impossible to miss from SS13 was the giant quilted Chanel beach bag – LOL. I can’t wait for some celeb or crazy lady with a lot of £££ to walk out on a beach with this huge tote, it’s totally over-the-top and silly but it’s refreshing to know that Karl Lagerfeld doesn’t take himself too seriously.


Image: Style.com

Saint Laurent – Hedi Slimane’s collection for the re-branded Saint Laurent was pretty cool but even better was the twitter/letter spat between fashion’s elite editors and journalists. It seems Heidi and his PR team had been upsetting the press with their new regulations and it all came out during the last week of fashion month. I don't think you should bad mouth people through the internet but this made for a funny story.

Images: PA/Rex

What was your favourite fashion week moment?

Bianca x