Blog

Head-To-Toe-White
Lots of girls love the idea of wearing all-white in Summer, but sometimes they can end up looking like they’re wearing a uniform rather than that fresh, clean look they’re going for. Image: Ankalia white pearl sandals My love for summer whites is endless. The trick to pulling it off is in the accessories. Image: Ankalia Lizzie sandals in white leather with Swarovski crystal embellishments in a Gecko design My advice is to really commit to a look whether it’s classic, boho, beachy or chic. If you like neutral accessories, stick to them as a theme throughout. If you are...

My Great Escape
This is me! Just a woman with an idea and a never give up attitude. Image: Cheryl Botha wears her Sylvia sandals Two years ago, I took the plunge and the biggest risk of my life by actually running away from home. Yes, literally I left a note and got in my car and drove across the Nullabor Plain to a new life and the beginning of Ankalia. In case you don’t know, the Nullabor is a five-day drive across the desert between Perth and Melbourne. I called it my “great escape.” Image: Cheryl Botha wears her Lara sandals in...

The Colour for August is Orange
Orange is the colour between red and yellow in the spectrum of light on the traditional painters’ wheel. It is named after the fruit – orange. Charlie sandals in chocolate brown suede The colour orange is a fun, dynamic colour that tends to elicit strong reactions. A close relative of red, orange seems to spark more controversy than any other colour.It’s bold, vivid and obnoxious at times. And there is usually a strong positive or strong negative association – you either "love it" or "hate it.” Image; Bianca sandals in green leather with green Swarovski crystals I have plenty of...

Hotel Principe Di Savoia in Milan
When I’m overseas I prefer to stay in local hotels and historical hotels to really get a feel for the city or country I am visiting. I really try to avoid staying in any of the big well known chain hotels. In saying that, in Milan, I recommend the historical and traditional 5-star Hotel Principe Di Savoia. Image: Lounge Hotel Principe de Savoia Milan There are liveried doormen to greet you on arrival. The entire hotel has a beautiful luxurious and historical feel to it. There is beautiful wood panelling, marble, hand painted walls, antique furniture and lots of historical...

Summer Chic
How often do you get invited to a Summer event and feel unsure about what to wear? Many summer events require the skillful art of dressing somewhere in between formal and elegant low-key. I like to call it Summer chic! Image: Ankalia lime green suede sandals I came up with the term “Summer Chic” on my last trip to Paris because every time I walked past reception to go out, the beautiful receptionist wanted to see what I was wearing. She always looked at my Ankalia sandals and said “so chic.” She seemed to be against me wearing heels and...

July – Coral Blush
Many colour experts say the beautiful coral pink colour of our Sarah sandals can help you be gentler. It can also calm your emotions and the emotions of those around you. Wear your Sarah sandals when you know you need serenity around you! Image: Sarah sandals in coral pink suede I would love to hear from you and how you feel on the days you wear your Sarah sandals or coral pink. Have a great July! Lots of love, Cheryl xx