Why I love ‘Jane the Virgin’ and you should too!

Our story begins about 5 and a half years ago, when I was stumbled upon the trailer of a show called ‘Jane the Virgin’. The title was enough to entice me and the opening trailer had me in giggles, intrigue and mystery – right away it went on my list.

Fast forward to today, the final season is dropping on Netflix this weekend and while I already watched as every episode dropped – I am ready to binge again! So, if you haven’t gotten on the Jane-parade – I’m here to convince you to start! We are at home, with nowhere to go – when can be better?

It’s a telenovela – which is basically a tv-show with a limited-run time and done in a typical Latin-American fashion. Meaning it’s dramatic, it’s surprising, it’s intriguing, its… its… its ADDICTIVE!

So, we begin with Jane. I mean, after all, the show is named after her. Jane is a virgin – who gets accidentally artificially inseminated by Rafael’s sperm by Rafael’s sister, Luisa instead of Rafael’s wife Petra. But, Jane is dating the cop Michael – who is looking into the murder of Rafael’s best friend’s murder – the same guy that Petra is having an affair with. Confused? Unconvinced? Okay, I will just list out reasons so you can start watching.

Jane

Jane is super relatable as a character – she’s not dangerously attractive that makes you wonder if you can ever relate. She’s cute – she’s your girl-next-door. She’s intelligent, charming, trustworthy, super competitive – all the qualities that make her so real.

Her obsession with grilled cheese sandwiches, her very real confusion between one extremely hot baby daddy and one kind of cute cop fiance or when she’s trying not to take sides between her mom and Abuela. She has her flaws too – especially when she’s about to get really angry. Oh, and did I mention she’s a pregnant virgin? That’s basically what the show is mostly about.

The Hot Men

I’ll be honest, quite a significant part of why I watch the show is because of the men on the show. Adding in the romance and mystery, there are three essential dreamboats that you need to know about – Rafael (Jane’s baby daddy) , Rogelio (Jane’s daddy) and Michael (Jane’s boyfriend/fiancé). If you are wondering, I’m on #TeamRafael all the way.

My favourite person on the show is The Narrator – better known as the Latin Love Narrator. Never before have I seen a show where the narrator had such an important role – his snide remarks, comments fit in seamlessly in every scene – collecting not only his thoughts, the characters’ thoughts but also the viewers!

Which brings me to –

Rafael Solano

I can’t be objective about this – it is what it is. I love Rafael. I wanted Jane to be with Rafael from the very moment they first kisses – five years before the show’s timeline – she should have always chosen Rafael. I am not sure what it was – the shirtless scenes, the sensitive side, the love he has for Jane and the kids or the way he always wanted the best for her – even if it was his expense – emotionally, mentally, economically.

While Jane was always the heroine we knew she is, Rafael’s character grew by the episode. From being the rich playboy to the joyous baby daddy to the man in love complete with the grand romantic gestures – there’s nothing you will not love about being on Team Rafael.

No Dull Moments!

Whether it’s Jane’s birthday with her mum Xiomara dancing seductively, or her favourite TV star turning out to be her dad or the fact that Rose wasn’t who she was or Petra had a twin. To say that the show is dramatic – is but of an understatement. On Jane the Virgin – there are no dull moments.

And while our dear Latin Lover Narrator adds a lot of intrinsic drama to the already dramatic scenes – Jane the Virgin has very unexpected cliff hangers – that aren’t just there for the sake of being dramatic. (I feel like this paragraph can be a drinking game for the word Drama).

There’s twists and turns and threats – that in on way or another affect and complicate every single character’s life. Some of the biggest arcs on the show that are often threatened and complicated are – Jane’s relationship with her mom, her ability to trust Rafael. It’s not just about #TeamRafael or #TeamJane – but conflicts that help the show grow more and kept me coming back on the edge of my seat episode after episode.

Relationships on the show

When it comes to relationships – they really did nail it. They showed all sides of all kinds of relationships – the mother-daughter relationship that Jane and her mom (Xiomara) have or the Xiomara and Abuela have or the one Petra has with hers. They are real, raw, messed up and just so entertaining for the most part. It sounds like a jumble as I’m saying it out loud – but the Latin Lover Narrator is really good at reminding/explaining/clearing out any doubts. My favourite relationship is the friendship of Jane and Petra – by the end of season 5 – that’s one of the relationships everyone ends up caring most about.

Rogelio and his DRAMATICNESS!

Gifs would be enough for him, honestly:

So, why don’t you join me and get on the Jane-parade!

Blair Waldorf: Headbands you would steal!

It might have been 5 years since the last of Gossip Girl aired, but Blair Waldorf still comes in every conversation. The show might have started with all headlights on Serena Van der Woodsen, but Leighton Meester’s character easily stole the show and became everyone’s favourite character and reason to sticking till the end.

She easily won over people through her scheming, sad puppy eyes, biting one-liners, her raw vulnerability and love for Chuck. Not one to blend in a crowd, every single outfit stood out and became a statement piece. And boy, oh boy, could she pull a headband – any headband.

Shop similar looks here:

 

Source: Jennifer Behr Nova Bandeaux embellished headband by Jennifer Behr

 

 

 

 

 

Source: Unskilled Worker silk headband by Gucci

 

 

 

Source: Rosantica Corte Gold-Tone Brass and Pearl Headband by Rosantica

 

 

 

Source: Gucci Silk satin headband by Gucci

 

 

 

 

Source: Anthropologie Rose Headband by Anthropologie

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Source: BENOÎT MISSOLIN Seville headband by Benoit Missolin

14 Super Relatable Quotes from The Mindy Project

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This morning was all about first things first. Everyone knows that The Mindy Project is streaming its last ever season, and the first of the last season’s episode is finally out. It’s bittersweet, I’ve been waiting for the season for a while, but I don’t want the series to end just because it’s one of the best shows ever. And to celebrate it’s new episode (ignoring the fact that it’s the very last season), here are few of my favourite quote from the Mindy Project and 14 (of the many reasons) why Mindy is my spirit animal.

Fun Fact: I’ve actually named my new car ‘Mindy’ after Mindy Kaling. (My previous car, which I crashed in a horrible accident was named ‘Blair’ after Blair Waldorf).

1. A lot of people don’t understand this. You don’t just have one best friend anymore, I mean how can you?
   

   

   

2. Truer words have never been spoken. Men, get off your high horses.
   

   

3.  I’m Reall-ll-ly not good at saying no.
   

   
4. Some conversations are just not worth the headache.
   

   

5. I make this promise to myself every day, only to climb quietly on the escalator.
   

   
6. Every time I do something stupid, especially intentional stupid.
   

   

7. You know, every time I order extra cheese, I never actually get it. Hmm.

   

8. Hello, every day.
   

   

9. Another way to ride unintentional stupid.
   

   

10. Note to self:
    

    

11. Hear me, I’m going to solve you, your life and your love life. Am I intruding? I don’t care.
    

    

12. This is the shortest, coolest pep talk.
    

    

13. Every time some one starts to initiate I’ve put on a little weight. EXCUSE MEEEE.
    

    

14. The best one for the end. I’ve actually faced this. There was this insanely hot guy, couldn’t use grammar to save his life, this emotion summed all my feelings.
    

    

Blair Waldorf’s Best Outfits from Gossip Girl

If you’ve known me for a while, or have been reading my blog for a while, you’ll know that I love Blair Waldorf from Gossip Girl. I still watch reruns of the show on Netflix to gather some fab wisdom from Ms. Waldorf.

So, this weekend, when I was watching the reruns of the show- I was thinking about pretty everyone’s costumes on the show are, especially Blair. It made obvious sense to write an entire article dedicated to her best looks from the show.

While I’m not the biggest Serena Van der Woodsen fan, she did have a fabulous wardrobe – that I will want to rob, so I’ll when inspired by her outfits do an entire or well, part of a post to her outfits.

The Green Coat

Handmade Software, Inc. Image Alchemy v1.14

How stunning is this look! This was my favourite look from Blair’s entire selection- in fact I was so obsessed with this green coat- that I actually ended up buying a coat in the same colour- a different style, though.

The most beautiful Elie Saab wedding dress for the much awaited wedding!

This red dress in which she was supposed to go meet the Prince, but ended up running to the train station, to Chuck Bass. And then happened my second favourite scene in the history of the show. 

And then this look, even though she was with Lonely Boy. *insert massive eye roll here*

Give her any shade of red in every fabric and she could literally carry it like a Queen that she is. I’m especially fond the dress in net with the boys on it.

And this green dress- because Blair Waldorf can even make a curtain cloth look chic.

I liked the Dior bags and cool french hat that no one but Blair could carry, but most of all, I was a big fan of these jackets she was often wearing so effortlessly.

And even though her wedding to the Prince was nothing but a nightmare, her wedding dress (and tiara) was what dreams are made of.

These two prints are very alike- with similar colour combinations and patterns- but two completely different designs. These are something that I’ll have lots in my wardrobe of.

One of my most favourite looks from the show, this one shoulder, polka-dot dress that she wore in Paris in Season 4.

Seriously, where did the stylists find all these amazing blazers?!

Paris-chic. Some of her best looks are from season 4. Interesting!

All this heart-warming dash of yellow!!

Let’s not forget this stunning look-

Or this stripey dress from the steps of the MET.

And all these floral options that are especially pretty.

She even made the granny coat look chic?!

And this pretty number-

Never in a million years would I be able to carry a dress as beautiful as the one below as effortlessly as Leighton Meester’s character does.

And this pink ensemble with a giant bow. Not many people who can carry it as well as Queen B

And finally this black dress from the very first episode. Can we talk about how PRETTY her headband is!

Favourite TV Couples

1. Monica and Chandler

   

   Everyone’s who ever seen Friends have them on their list. A long time ago, my best friend, Sonia and I created an entire list of reasons for everything we know about ‘love’ was from Chander and Monica. Reasons included their characteristics- funny and OCD, friends first, lovers second and the perfect match- they are my favourite TV couple. I don’t know about you, my favourite episode is ‘The One Where Everybody Knows’. ( THEY DON’T KNOW, THAT WE KNOW, THAT THEY KNOW THAT WE KNOW!).

2. Chuck and Blair

   

   When at first they got together- I was weirded out. I thought Blair should be with Nate and not the creepy Chuck Bass. But, come season 2, my opinion changed. Chuck brought out the best and worst of her- and enough to still want to be with her. Blair gave it everything to bring out the best of Chuck. Minus all the expensive presents, dinners, “rich people drama”- the couple was quite realistic when it came to the relationship. I loved when in Season 4 beginning, they’re in Paris at the train station- and Blair drops everything when she finds out Chuck’s there and tells him to come back to New York. I, ESPECIALLY, loved it when they finally got married and how!

   

3. Uncle Jesse and Becky

   

   I spent a lot of time watching Full House- and while the coolest relationship on the show was of Danny and his cleaning supplies (just kidding, it was Michelle and Uncle Jesse), Uncle Jesse and Becky were a pretty awesome TV couple. They used to support each other’s insanity, careers, goals, family and each other.

4. Logan and Veronica Mars

   

   I was SOOOOOO upset when Duncan ran away with the baby- that definitely meant the end of Duncan and Veronica, but as Logan and Veronica started their relationship- it became pretty clear who she really suited with (read: Logan). Their relationship had a different dynamic- slightly messed up, but it suited their characters. That said, this is one of the best detective shows I’ve seen- you should REALLLY watch it.

5. Bones and Booth

   

   I stuck through all the 12 seasons. I started watching Bones during their 4th season- and couldn’t miss an episode. Every episode, to me, was the most fascinating thing- and I literally wouldn’t do anything for the hour (especially eat when the body was still being “recovered”). Seeley Booth and Temperance ‘Bones’ Brenan’s relationship was the highlight of the show. Of how they eventually went from being partners to a couple.

6. Ross and Rachel

   

   They were on a break, but Ross shouldn’t have slept with the photocopier girl. I wanted to slap the man’s idiot face when he did. And all the missed opportunities of being with Rachel- stupid, stupid man. But, despite all the flights, fights and longing looks they shared- Ross and Rachel were made for each other.

7. Jane and Rafael

   

   I know, I know so many people who supported Jane and Michael- but. I’ve always been Team Rafael. Oh, the man is way too sexy. I wish he didn’t break up with Jane when he did- then they’d still be together. I got on the whole Michael and Jane boat when he recovered from the hospital after the shooting. But, then they went and killed him. So, I swam back on the Team Rafael boat. Rafael and Jane, especially now, have a beautiful relationship and co-parent the cutest toddler, Mateo.

8. Barney and Robin

   

   The only reason I stuck with this mind-numbingly silly show, How I Met Your Mother was to watch Barney and Robin get together. Only for the writers to ruin it in the last 3 minutes of the series. Robin and Barney complemented and completed each other in a way nobody else would have.

9. Schmidt and Cece

   

   The best thing about New Girl might be Jessica Day, but the best romance on the show is Schmidt and Cece. The crazy levels that Schmidt went through to be with Cece are brilliant- even crashing her mass Indian “date” thing in an Indian groom’s attire. They have an amazing chemistry, understanding, and relationship.

7 Reasons why I binged watched Netflix’s ‘The Crown’

After hearing people rave about Netflix’s The Crown, and watching all the trailers on YouTube, I decided- let’s watch this show. I do enjoy period dramas, after all.

I had little knowledge of what it was going to be about- mostly how Queen Elizabeth the second was crowned. Think the title and the picture gave it away.

Anywhoo, last weekend, I binge-watched the show. From the very first episode, I was gripped. I didn’t want to pause and take a break. That’s always a good thing when a show can do that to you- also not really because then that’s all you are going to do for the next 10 hours. (It’s 10 episodes, and each is about an hour long).

If you ask me, I can argue for the many reasons you have to watch the show- especially, if you are a history enthusiast. But, in 7 quick reasons (complete with gifs), here’s why I binge watched it.

1. Matt Smith
   
   If you’ve seen Doctor Who, you’ll know him. And while many argue that David Tennant was the best Doctor- I strongly disagree. It was Matt Smith for me. His eccentric expressions and being was the perfect doctor. But, in The Crown he plays Prince Phillip. His expressions (and bum) are worth the 10 hours.
2. The entire cast
   
   Netflix chose Britain’s best when they decided to cast for The Crown. Whether it’s Claire Foy as the Queen, Vanessa Kirby as Princess Margaret and John Lithgow as Winston Churchill- it is a stellar selection.
   And the real fact is, Claire Foy could have done the show by herself, and I would have still watched it.
3. The grandeur
   
   It isn’t just the Buckingham Palace I’m talking about, but the general scale of the show was magnificent. While it is also Netflix’s most expensive show (and I’m talking 130 million pounds), the costumes, the interiors, the coronation crown were delicately selected- down to the smallest detail of the flowers in her wedding bouquet.
4. How Elizabeth handled patriarchy
   

   

   

   

   

   Patriarchy is something that has been long prevailing in our world. Even the Queen of England was subject to it. She torn between her family, her husband and the State.My favourite part has to be when she called in the Prime Minister and the Lord to give them a hearing of their lives.

5. The Romance
   
   
   While there’s a lot to learn about Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip’s 69 year old romance, the show gives a lovely insight on the ups and downs of their relationship. While their romance forms the backdrop to the show’s story line, it’s Princess Margaret and Captain Townsend’s romance you need to watch out for.
6. Obsessions with the Royals
   
   Okay, I won’t call it obsession, but if you are intrigued by the Royal family-  I mean I have always been. I watched Prince William and Kate Middleton’s wedding religiously while it aired live- and I read every article leading up to the wedding and after. SO, if you are anything like me, you will enjoy watching the show and how real their lives can be.
7. The Drama
   
   One always wonders and paints it like a fairytale that being a Royal would be fantastic and rosy. The Crown puts into light the best and the worst of Britain’s Royal family. Like the wedding of Queen Elizabeth to Prince Phillip- that no one actually approved of, Princess Margaret’s affair with Captain Townsend and how it played out, the arguments between the Queen and Prince Phillip, and such.

 

10 Times you MUST absolutely listen to Blair Waldorf

Take my word for it, Blair Waldorf is always right. I’ve even got a giant frame on my desk that reads- ‘What would Blair Waldorf say?‘ Needless to say, I find myself asking that question more often than I’d like to admit. The woman has something appropriate to say for every occasion. I’ve just listed below the 10 times her advice is spot on!

Also, if you still haven’t seen this show or know who Blair is- I have no words to say to you.

1. When it comes to following your dreams

   

2. When you think of wearing Tights with a Baggy shirt.

   

3. When you think you should settle for something less than what you deserve

   

4. When you keep waiting for things to happen without actually doing anything about it.

   

5. When just because you love something and know it’s not good for you.

   This really takes the cake though

   

   

6. When you think it’s just you that the feelings confuse.

   

   

   

7. When you need to realize self-worth.

   

   

8. When you need really keep your cool.

   

   

9. When you are wondering whether or not you should buy that $400 dress.

   

10. When you actually fall in love

    

18 Life Lessons from Gilmore Girls

I just binge watched Gilmore Girls and in less than a month- and this is something I’m very proud of- finished the entire series. Yes, that’s right. I watched 7 seasons and the Year in Life Netflix special and I finished it all- in less than a month.

There were several things I enjoyed about the show- Kelly Bishop (Emily Gilmore) being my favorite. There were several moments when all I wanted was to stop watching it, I’m thinking Season 3 between Jess and Dean and Dean and Jess (if you are asking, I was Team Dean all the way- but that Logan fellow was pretty much meant to be). Although, in the revival, I was all about Team Jess. Never thought that would happen- but he’s turned out to be a pretty amazing dude, I would say. Anywhooo. 18 important life lessons I learned from Gilmore Girls:

1. Life is really short, so talk fast.

   As somebody who talks really fast- I really enjoyed watching Lorelei ramble on and on and on.

   

2. When in doubt, or when bored, or when uncertain- drink.

   

3. Dirty jokes are never not funny.

   

4. Sometimes you need to stop planning the future and just live in the moment.

   

5. Look out for silver linings

   

6. Be yourself.

   

7. Never be afraid to voice your feelings

   

8. Take time out for yourself- to discover yourself and to find contentment within you.

   

9. Just because you love him doesn’t mean he is good for you.(Read: Jess, then Dean and then Logan)

   

10. Coffee is everything.

    

    

11. It’s okay to hurt sometimes and cry into ice cream.

    

12. Do not steal a yacht.Repercussions are your mother bailing you out of jail.

    

13. Stop and smell the books!

    

14. And always bring a book – wherever you go!

    

15. Snow makes everything magical.

    

16. Pop-culture references are EVERYTHING!

    

17. You can’t control who you’re attracted to (Read- Jess, then a married Dean, then Logan, then an engaged Logan).

    

18. Make sure your best friend can bake.