Esprit du Temps

Rote Lippen Soll Man Küssen...

2010-10-21T13:11:00.000-07:00

The title of this Post is in German because it's basically a quote from a popular German folk song. It says "Red lips ought to be kissed". I totally agree even though I've never been one to care much for lipstick. In fact I neither owned nor used any. I was very satisfied with my transaprent lip glosses. In my defence I have to say that I hardly put on much make-up during the day because I aim for a more natural look. Until just now, that is.

At the same time as I started growing tired of seeing the same old me in the mirror every day I noticed more and more girls wearing bright red lipstick (preferrably with an all black outfit) during the day. Me - still not entirely convinced - got intrigued and went to the nearest Douglas make-up store to have an SA put some color on me. I left the choice of brand and shade up to her. She picked a Benefit lipstick in the color "Flirt Alert". Oh, how I like the sound of the name.

At first I was a bit shocked when I looked in the mirror because it so looked like ... well, not me. But isn't that what I wanted? I left the store telling the sales girl that I needed some time to think about it. She totally understood but assured me that the color suited me. She also gave me the advice to try to leave it on for the rest of the day And that's what I did. At first I felt a little uncomfortable especially after ordering a soy chay to go from Starbucks and lost half of the color on the to-go cup. One of the disadvantages of lipstick, I thought. They just never stay on....

But the longer I had it on the more comfortable I started feeling. Even my friend - who I met to go for a walk that day- noticed my bright red lips. That's when I made my decision to go back to the store first thing in the morning to buy the lipstick. And that's exactly what I did. And I haven't regretted it since.

What is your favorite lipstick (color) and why?

Green Tea Latte

2010-10-04T10:50:00.000-07:00

Everytime I'm in New York I indulge in pretty much everything that I don't usually get at home. And that's quite a lot. Be it brownies, cupcakes or (veggie) burgers; I can't help thinking about food 24/7 when I'm in the Big Apple.

I must admit that there aren't really any drinks that I look foward to drinking. Most of the espresso specialties sold at coffee shops such as Starbucks I can get over here as well. And there is too much sugar in soft drinks for my (European) taste. However, one drink that I can't get enough of (and is almost impossible to find in Germany) is Matcha tea. I usually shop my Rheon Café on Spring Street when I'm shopping in SoHo because that's one of the few places that offers a Matcha tea latte. I always order mine with soy milk and add a little honey to it. Yum.

While browsing though Pearl River on Brodway and looking for some gifts for my friends I accidentally found a small box of Matcha green tea powder to bring home to. It's very small because the tea is one of the most expensive ones and usually used in Japanese tea ceremonies. Unlike regular greet tea match consists of powder and not leaves.

It's definitely my newest addiction. Luckily my health will benefit from the consumption at the same time. And the green color looks so fresh and springy.

What do you indulge in?

Definition: Matcha (抹茶^?, pronounced [mat.tɕa]^[1]) refers to finely-milled Japanese green tea. The cultural activity called the Japanese tea ceremony centers on the preparation, serving, and drinking of matcha. In modern times, matcha has also come to be used to flavour and dye foods such as mochi soba noodles, green tea ice cream and a variety of wagashi (Japanese confectionery). and

Blends of matcha are given poetic names called chamei ("tea names") either by the producing plantation, shop or creator of the blend, or by the grand master of a particular tea tradition. When a blend is named by the grand master of some tea ceremony lineage, it becomes known as the master's konomi, or favoured blend.

(Source: Wikipedia.com)

Michael Bastian for GANT

2010-09-28T06:50:00.000-07:00

One place that inspires me the most is definitely the Big Apple aka concrete jungle aka New York City. I have the urge to visit the city at least one time a year and it always gives me a break from my everyday life in Hamburg.

I've always wanted to go there for Fashion Week but never made it. But then again I don't have any friends who work in the fashion industry who could have gotten me in. So I was happy and excited when my friend (journalist and former PR manager) told me that I could have his invitation for the GANT fashion show which took place on Sept 15. Luckily and coincidentally, I had already planned my vacation wround the same time as Fashion Week.
I was thrilled to attend my first real fashion show. And it was everything but disappointing.

If you think every fashion has to have a runway with models walking up and down while trying to look as bored as possible, you are on the wrong foot. What I actually saw wasn't much different from an art exhibition at a fasionable NYC venue. No catwalk but installations with different scenes and models in various outfits posing and moving (yes, also laughing and having fun). You could basically walk around and look at all the different setting while sipping on your glass of champagne and exchanging thoughts with the fashion crowed.

1950s meets classic American: I really enjoyed it but I have to say I do like the fashion from the 50s and 60s in general. You are absolutely right if you think it's all been done before and there is rarely a new take on retro fashion. True but somehow designer Michael Bastian managed to let his line look new and fresh. Up until now he has only created fashion for men. The GANT collaboration was a very good opportunity for him to start designing an entire collection for women as well. And I'm so glad he did. My favorite was the movie scene and the partly lace sweetheart dress. Definitely a classic piece and very wearable.

Let the pictures speak for themselves ;-)

NEW DIRECTION

2010-09-28T06:41:00.000-07:00

Ok, tough decision. I noticed that nobody was actually reading this blog (hence no comments) and I blame this on the crappy camera that I have - but currently no money to buy a new one- and the lack of people with photography abilities in my life. But then again there are numerous blogs who do depict bloggers' daily style with arty pics. So I was torn between shutting down this blog for good or changing the direction in which it is going. Before finally giving up I though I'd give it one last try.

And here it goes: I'll post everything that comes into my mind which may or may not be fashion related. But it will most definitely be life(style) related. And I'll try to post regularly. If you happen to like my posts, please give me some kind of feedback so I know that you out there are actually reading it. I'll keep posting in English so that everyone can actually understand what I'm talking about. Maybe I'll post some sentences in German here or there. Not quite sure yet. We'll see... .

So, enjoy!

Oh Fall, Where Art Thou?

2010-08-13T05:32:00.000-07:00

Felt a little uninspired lately. I guess that's because of the summer - fall - transition. I just don't know how to dress. It's not summery warm here anymore but not cold enough for fall clothes either. The Ann Demeulemeester lace up boots are perfect for this kind of weather. Even though they are boots they are open-toed.
Details

shirt: Rick Owens
cami (underneath): H&M
skirt: American Apparel
blazer: silence & noise (UO)
leggings: Wolford
boots: Ann Demeulemeester

Come Fly With Me...

2010-08-05T09:56:00.000-07:00

Oasis

Topshop

Acne

Burberry F/W ´10

It might still be summery and hot in your part of the world while it seems like fall is about to arrive over here very soon ( if it hasn't already). After a few weeks of breezy flower patterned maxi dresses and denim shorts it's about time for a more appropriate attire. Last year was all about the leather biker jacket. It seems like this year's new trend is a further development of last year's wardrobe staple: the aviator jacket (also called the "flying jacket"). It's basically a biker style leather jacket with a sheepskin or fur collar. Sounds like a great item for an easy transitition from the fall into the winter season.

Burberry started the trend but with 2K and up it seems like it's out of reach for most of us. Acne's model is pretty close to the high end designer style but with 800€ not really affordable either. Thank god highstreet stores pick up on trends fast these days. Topshop offers usually good alternatives but 300 pounds are not easy to shed either if you a poor student like me. I just saw an affordable 150-pounds-version at Oasis and Asos.

I guess there is something for everyone out there price range wise. So start investing asap even though you might not be able to wear it for another few weeks/month. They are guaranteed to sell out fast (the Burberry one has already sold out on NAP). Long before you probably start worrying about your fall '10 wish list.

What do you think about the trend? I'd like to know.

High Season .... Low Budget

2010-07-12T10:19:00.000-07:00

It's been unusually hot here for the last couple of weeks. Not that I'm complaining (I love the heat and sun) but I noticed that I don't have too many summery clothes in my closet as we hardly get these high temperatures in this part of Europe. The few that I own are at my mom's house which is a two hour train ride away and I don't think I'll get to visit her before the end of the month.

So I went looking for some lighter clothes I could add to my wardrobe without having to rob a bank first. I must admit that I rather invest in clothes I can wear all year round and summers are either non-existent or very short over here. I was lucky that I found something that I actually really like.

I had been looking for a flapper dress for ages and now found this at H&M reduced to 10 Euros. It comes in white and black as well. The thong sandals I found at a super cheap shoe store that I would never enter because everything is tacky and pleather. These sandals, though they are not real leather either, look more expensive than they actually are and only cost 9.95 Euros. I guess they won't last too long but at least I have something I can wear in these high temperatures.

I also bought a rose patterned maxi dress at Urban Outfitters and a sheer breezy high waist skirt from American Apparel. Pics to come.

Is it as hot in your city as well? What do you do against the heat? I like going to the local botanical garden as it's not far from my neighborhood and there are benches, trees, a rose garden and ponds with ducks. Took some pics so you get the idea.

Enjoy the sun!

Shoe lust/love

2010-05-20T02:01:00.000-07:00

I received my new babies in the mail yesterday. At first I wanted the swallow platform mary janes but they sold out within seconds on net-a-porter and I haven't seen them anywhere else. I definitely wanted a platform pair instead of the high heel version. So I posted them in the "Help me find..." thread on tfs and a member from Switzerland told me to call the Miu Miu boutique in Zurich. And that's what I did. Turns out they only had the cat prints in store but when I was told it was the two-tone platform version I was sold. And here they are!

Carrie on ... once again!

2010-05-16T03:27:00.000-07:00

Patrica Field "The White Dress"

Halston Heritage dress

As an avid viewer of the TV show "Sex and the City" (I'm also writing my Phd thesis about the show as part of American Quality TV but that's another story) I was more than thrilled when the "Sex and the City- The Movie" came out last year. Styling wise it was a little over the top with that Vera Wang wedding dress and high-end designers only. It had nothing of that vintage-y vibe of the (esp. first seasons of the) series - a style that Patricia Field became known and famous for. With the sequel finally coming out in less than two weeks I can't help but wonder: What will the oufits look like this time?

According to the trailer and pictures that came up there'll be influences from the 80s as well as vintage (at least looking) dresses. I did a little web research and found out that there will be a lot of Halston Heritage. Wihout actually knowing that before I had already been drawn to their flowy evening and cocktail dresses from the current spring line that are both fab looking and affordable at the same time. I saw them on net-a-porter and other online retailers and was considering buying a piece (namely the pink one shoulder dress that Carries also wears in the movie) for a while.

Now with all the promos most of the dresses have sold out and I wish I had been a little faster. Especially after seeing that white Halston dress Carrie wears on the poster. It incorporates everything I love in a dress and want for spring/summer: the color- a crisp white, the shape - vintage, the length - just above the knee, the material - a soft jersey, all without breaking the bank account.

As I'll probably not get my hands on the Halston (because it's pretty much sold out and unlikely to be restocked) I found a good alternative on the Patricia Field website http://www.patriciafield.com . It's called "the white dress" and looks basically the same, only it's not made by Halston. With $199 it's also a little cheaper than the origional. It's not in stock right now but will probably restocked soon.

Hopefully just in time for the start of the sequel on May 27th. See you then ;-)

P.S.: For those of you who are looking for the Carrie necklace or just some books about the show or Martini glasses, check out http://store.hbo.com/?g=1&v=hbo_shows_sex-and-the-city

What's in a bag?

2010-04-11T14:46:00.000-07:00

They say you can tell a lot about a person by their friends. I say, you can certainly tell a lot about a woman by (the content of) the bag she carries. I'm personally a firm believer in bag rotation. And as I have far too many I try to give them equally as much love as possible.

Lately I've been carrying my PS1 a lot because it so convenient. I can wear it messenger style across my body and have my hands free for my soy chai latte and other things - namely (shopping) bags. And it's great becuse it fits all of my daily things due the three compartments.

I usually carry a book or magazine because I like to read while I'm waiting for the bus or on the subway. In this case it's my kindle from amazon. It's thinner and lighter than some of my books.

Also in my bag:
- Balenciaga wallet
- facial tissues
- hand lotion
- hand sanitizer
- C.O Bigelow mentha lip shine
- Ga-Jol sugar-free licorice drops
- Chicza organic mayan rainforest chewing gum
- hand-made mirror from Lebanon (gift from my friend)
- my iphone - can't live without it!!!
- headphones - I like listening to music on the go
- pocket size umbrella - the weather is unpredicatble and it rains a lot here

What' in your bag? I'm curious to know!

Dress for less - Oasis

2009-11-26T10:56:00.001-08:00

Oasis by Velony on Polyvore.com

I've only recently come across the UK brand Oasis and its online store. The concept is pretty similar to Topshop only with a slightly higher price point and a more mature style. They have both trendy items and basics, shoes, jewellery and handbags. I like that some of the items look pretty expensive. You can also find designer inspired items. I found a Balmain-esque dress with shoulder pads, YSL tribute knock offs, KJL-ish ring, Phillip Lim inspired ruffle cardi, a faux suede and shearling drapy jacket in the style of Rick Owens and the denim blue suede biker jacket somehow reminds me of Alexander Wang.

If you live in the EU, you can easily order from their website. Shipping is only 10€. While most of the online stores are based in the US and shipping fees are high plus you get charged customs fees, this is a great alternative and also a nice change from Topshop.

Outfit post

2009-11-08T11:17:00.000-08:00

I was looking for a high waisted pair of suede shorts for quite some time now. I actually thought the perfect pair would be vintage but it's kinda hard to tell how they fit from pics alone and not having the chance to try them on in person doesn't really help (I'd have to buy them online). So I was very happy when I found these Weekday ones for a very resonable price too.

I can already see many different outfits. They would look good with a blazer and boots.
details: striped shirt: H&M, cardi: Express, shorts: Weekday, tights: Urban Outfitters, sandals: Divided Exclusive

Pick the bucket!

2009-11-05T08:55:00.000-08:00

This type of handbag is anything but new. In fact there are several vintage styles of this around atm. Chanel's bucket bag might be the most famous. I've noticed that they've made a comeback. I've seen everywhre from Urban Outfitters to ASOS to Miss Selfridge.

All of these bags are slouchy bucket styles with a drawstring. Thye seem so versatile. While they are big enough to hold everything from make-up bags to wallets, they are not too big and can easily transition from day to night and function as evening bags aswell.

Here's a selection to choose from. It's entirely up to you if you select a classic black one or a cream one with studs all over. The options are endless.

pics from: ASOS.com, urbanoutfitters.com, missselfridge.com

Zebra on the loose...

2009-11-03T07:57:00.000-08:00

I made a pleasant discovery this morning. I went through my closet and found this dress I had almost forgotten about (I hardly wore it. At least I don't remember wearing it often). It's like going shopping in your own closet without having to spend any money.

Animal prints are still big right now so I don't have the feeling that the dress is outdated or anything. It's 100% silk from Zara. I like the A-line shape and bell sleeves. So mod. As it's too cold to just wear it like that I put over a cashmere/silk mix cardigan and suede boots.

I'm sure I'll get much more wear out of this dress now even though it's almost winter.

Did you ever find anything in your closet again that you'd already forgotten about?

fur over leather? how about yes!

2009-10-29T03:37:00.000-07:00

Well, a leather jacket is too warm to be worn during the summer, that's for sure. But what if the fall season is already pretty cold and too cold just to wear a leather jacket over a shirt? Here's my take on the leather jacket in the fall/winter: simply wear a (faux) fur vest over it and you are good to go and sure to stay warm.

Details: leather jacket: Rick Owens, faux fur vest: Zara kid's section (from last year), striped shirt: H&M, boyfriend pants: Eryn Brinie, lace ups boots: Marc Jacobs

Ahoi!

2009-10-23T15:30:00.000-07:00

Balmain

La Rok

Alice and Olivia

Don't we all remember the iconic chrystal-embellished admirals' jacket by Balmain that came out this spring? It was insane with all its jewells and gems but also insanely expensive retailing for almost 8,000 €. Celebs like Rihanna and Beyonce made it even more famous.

I always liked the idea of a military inspired jacket but with a twist so you can wear it for a night on a town but also during the day with a nice pair of jeans.

I found two affordable alternatives by Alice and Olivia ($550) and La Rok ($368). I actually tried on the first one when I was in New York and regretted not getting it right away because when I returned to Saks the next day it was completely sold out. I checked with the A&O store but they had sold out even months ago. So I kinda gave up the idea until I came across a similar style by La Rok. It's even a little cheaper.

While some may think this jacket is too trendy, I regard it as a timeless piece that is worth to invest in because you'll wear it with everything from denim shorts to evening dresses and for years to come.

pics: Balmain: net-a-porter.com, A+O: chickdowntown.com, La Rok: shopbop.com

What to pack... when going on a trip?

2009-09-15T14:58:00.000-07:00

Departure time is almost there. I'm going to the Big Apple tomorrow :-) I've been there so many times but every single time I have to think about what to bring and what not again and again. I think it's good to get organized ahead of time so you don't have to worry about forgetting anything or stress out. Make a list - ficticious or real - if it helps you. I lay every single item on the bed and try out different combinations. Pack only half of what you think you need (especially if you plan on shopping). How many times have I only worn half of the content of my suitcase.

I checked the weather forecast and it's supposed to be cooler (around 18 degrees C) and rainy. That means to take any umbrella and closed shoes or booties. I know I'll be walking around a lot and although I do love my heels I pretty much only packed flats. I'll probably buy one or two nice pairs of heels anyway which I will need when we're going out. For that case I also packed some dressier pants that can easily transition from day to night and sequin leggings and skirt.

My color palette seems pretty plain ranging from heather grey to black but it will be much easier to combine the clothes that way. I took cardigans to wear over dresses for when it's a little cooler. And a must is also a trench coat. Mine is from Polo by Ralph Lauren in a dark blue color. I think every woman should own one as it's a classic and will never go out of style. It will keep me safe from the rain and also warm without being too hot and sweaty.

Shirts are of course also a must. Mine are a bit longer so I can wear over leggings. I'm not a big fan of jeans in general as they are usually too tight and squeeze my tummy but I packed one pair of plain skinny jeans by J Brand.

I'll also take my LV leopard scarf on the plane because it's always chilly with the AC on and I don't want to get sick. It's jst big enough to wear as a pashmina over the shoulders.

What's your travelling wardrobe like? Do you have a favorite piece that you always take with you on your journeys?

Fall/Winter Shoe Wishlist

2009-08-27T13:18:00.000-07:00

I noticed that I already started stocking up on fall/winter shoes/boots even though it's still sandal weather over here. I just want to try to get all of the shoes why they last. Some are so popular that they instantly sold out (like the Chloé Sevigny for Opening Ceremony buckle wedge boots).
The Chloé Susan studded booties are not produced anymore and hard to find on ebay these days so I've pretty much given up hope of ever finding them in my size. Office UK made decent knock offs for a fraction of the price so I think I'll just settle for those.
I wanted the famous Sam Edelman Zoe booties for along time. I could still kick myself for not ordering them when they were still available on the Victoria Secret site. Well, at least SE has brought them back and I don't have to pay the horrendous ebay mark ups. Nasty Gal has them available for pre-order.
Jeffrey Campbell has made so many great knock offs of designer shoes like the Ann Demeulemeester lace ups. I'm positive that there is more to come.

Sam Edelman, Jeffrey Campbell, Opening Ceremony, Office UK, Aldo

Talonalia

2009-08-15T14:52:00.000-07:00

I was looking for a nice Talon necklace à la Pamela Love for a while. I was stalking Etsy and was hoping to find one but never did. Then I found this great site TALONALIA. The necklaces are exactly what I was looking for and retail for a very reasonable price. They even ship internationally.
You have the choice between 'The Magpie', 'The Sparrow', 'The Owlet' and 'The Owl'. I immediately ordered The Magpie and received it super fast. Very happy with it and couldn't take it off. Might have to order another one soon.

check out: http://talonalia.bigcartel.com

Outfits posts

2009-08-14T13:00:00.000-07:00

Apologies: I know I've pretty lazy lately but I also felt a little uninspried. Must be the summer. It was nice and warm lately so I was finally able to wear something more appropriate for the season. The Preen dress you already know. I posted it here a while ago. I wasn't sure if it actually worked with flats and a casual jeans jacket but I was quite content with the result. The b/w outfit looks more like fall. I just can't help it. Black tights and skirts are staples in my closet. I got the white lace top from Beacon's Closet in Brooklyn last year and haven't worn it much. I still like it though. It's vintage.

DIY blazer studding

2009-07-27T07:44:00.000-07:00

I finally finished studding the boring H&M blazer I had lying around. I probably wouldn't have worn it anymore as I have nicer black blazers. But it has become a special piece in the style of Balmain now. I know everybody and their mom is studding clothes and showing pics on their blogs. Sorry for not being more creative. It took me forever and a bleeding finger btw. I'm not very patient so I doubt I'll studd more things in the future.

Thanks to Gennie from Maison des Reveries for the inspiration! I don't think I could have done it without your instructions.

I used around 100 1/2" pyramid studs made of nickle/brass I ordered from studsandspikes.com.

Great sale deal

2009-07-13T14:00:00.000-07:00

Ok, I'm officially on a bag ban now. I must say I haven't really been interested in a new bag since my YSL Downtown and I still wear it very often. It's a fab bag as it fits all of my stuff (which is a lot) and the leather is nice plus the straps are long enough to fit over my shoulders. But since Alexander Wang's bag line launched I've been in love with every single one from his collection and couldn't decide between the Brenda or Donna hobo (all of them named after 90210 characters).

I decided the Brenda would be a nice change as I already have a Balenciaga hobo with super soft slouchy leather. Then I saw the Coco and once again was in love. But you already know the story from a previous post. It hasn't shipped from NYC yet so I have to be a little more pationed *sigh*.

I'm currently writing my dissertation so I constantly carry around books and my laptop. Unfortunately I didn't have a bag to fit everything in as I hardly have any structured bags. I kinda like the smooth slouchy ones more ... until I saw Proenza Schouler's PS1. It looks like a school bag somehow and has a detachable shoulder strap which I find very practical. It seems to have a couple of compartments which makes it even more desirable. Unfortunately the heavy price tag kept me from actually really considering to purchase the bag. Until it went on sale. Ok, only one bag to be exact and in a coral candy color. I liked it right away but I already have lots of dark brown bags so I thought coral would be a nice color for spring/summer. And as I wear mostly solid colors like black and grey I'm not really afraid that it won't go with everything. So how could I resist with a reduction of 50% (!) percent and a beautiful color? Just ordered it so I hope it will get here soon. Can't wait.

Random outfit post

2009-07-12T14:10:00.000-07:00

Just a casual outfit I wore today. It's been pourring here for a week so it didn't feel like summer. That explains the tights. But it's supposed to warm up again next week so I hope I can wear my Ann D's again and some summery dresses. I guess most bloggers are on vacation at the moment as there seem to be less updates than usual.

tunic dress: Zara
tights: American Apparel
shoes: cinderella (boutique in Amsterdam)
jacket: Silence & Noise
necklace: Etsy

Desperately Seeking Susan

2009-07-07T13:50:00.000-07:00

After watching the movie from 1985 starring Madonna and Rosanna Arquette I once more realized that the 80s style dominates fashion at the moment. I can see lace leggins, cropped tops, sequin boots and jackets, oversized blazers with shoulder pads and rolled up sleeves. Everything was worn my Modonna at that time and can be found in stores today. Let me take you on a short journey back.

2009-07-01T03:37:00.000-07:00

I realized that I haven't posted many of my outfits so I thought I'd post some I've worn recently. It's basically too hot here atm to post nice outfits but the skirt/shirt/body chain combo is today's outfit.

The It-Bag Revival

2009-06-21T07:58:00.000-07:00

A midnight blue Chloé Paddington was my very first It-Bag ever. I can basically still recall the hunt for it (checking ebay religiously on a ten-times-a-day basis for an affordable one because there was no way I could have afforded to pay full retail). And when I finally had it in my hands and felt the super soft leather and smelled it, I knew one could be in love with a bag. At that time around, fashion mags everwhere proclaimed the birth of It-Bags*.

Every season one designer would bring out a new one convincing thousands of women all over the world that they couldn't live without it. Be it a Fendi Spy, YSL Muse or Marc Jacobs Stam. But the thing with trends is that they die sooner or later. And so we all said good-bye to the much celebratet It-Bags not shedding one tear about their disappearnce.

But the true Fashionista knows that trends always tend to come back after a certain period of time being absent. I have a feeling this could be the case with the new COCO duffle bag designed by no other than the popular award winning Alexander Wang. You might have seen pics of Mary-Kate Olsen carrying it with her everywhere. And that although the bag won't be available for purchase until the beginning of July. Something tells me that this bag will sell out in no time. It's a great bag indeed. Black, smooth leather and gold/silver studs at the bottom. It's big enough to hold everything and goes with practically every outfit. And with under 1K (it will probably retail for about $895) it will even be more affordabe than other It-Bags used to be in the past.

Just wondering if this will be a one-time wonder or if there's more to come. And for how long will this trend-revival last this time?

P.S.: What was your first It-/Designer-Bag? I'm curious to know.

* a very much coveted and insanely expensive high end designer bag that is, that got much attention and became famous through numerous celebs toting it around town. This trend basically started at the beginning of 00 and lasted until mid 00.

Fiona Paxton Jewellery

2009-06-12T15:11:00.000-07:00

I'm pretty impressed by Fiona Paxton's debut jewellery line. It combines twenties glamour with Indian artistry and all items are hand made. "Each jewellery piece is tightly patterned beaded mosaic of glistening strands of silver and gold coloured chains and beads. Intricate beadworks create fluid necklaces that drape flat to the body languid and snakelike". Especially the necklaces are statement pieces as they have that glam rock style to them that is so "in" right now. It will instantly update any outfit.

The designer gets inspired by "street imagery, the flashing images of popular music culture, pattern and decoration from vintage finds and lazy weekends in art galleries taking tea and collecting postcards" and it's pretty visibile in her pieces.

Some of her unique necklaces are available at Shopbop.

Alexander Wang S/S 09 "Eye Candy"

2009-06-12T08:56:00.000-07:00

I know, nothing that not almost everybody being into fashion hasn't seen before. I'm just so totally into everything by Alexander Wang atm therefore I thought I'd post some of my favorite items from his S/S 09 line. I wouldn't mind having everything but I personally think his dresses are perfection. The materials, the tailoring and the color palette are merged into outanding and unique dresses for special occasions. That explains why he is a favorite among celebrities.

Tying a knot (DIY knot chain necklace)

2009-05-29T12:53:00.000-07:00

I saw this Lisa Freede knot and chain necklace on Revolveclothing and was this close to buying it when it occured to me that I could probably do it myself and save some money. Also, I wanted it to be black and silver instead of black and gold. So I purchased five chains of different shapes and colors and simply tied a knot at the bottom et voilá!

Surface 2 Air

2009-05-25T10:24:00.000-07:00

I came across this label through a google search for another label and I thought I'd feature it here as it's a great concept in my opinion.

SURFACE TO AIR is a unique group operating in contemporary fashion, communication and film

Here's how everything started which was basically in Paris in the year 2000:

At the beginning in the late 90’s Surface To Air consisted of a group of friends who wanted to work on projects they liked. Year after year, the team has grown into a multidisciplinary company spanning across creative domains such as fashion, graphics, photography, design, music, films… Today each company develops its own activity but always within the Surface To Air vision.

I think the graphic and music influence is pretty dominant. I'd describe the collection as well-tailored basics like jeans, shirts, dresses but with a twist. All items seem very wearable and easy to match with other pieces from one's wardrobe. I fell in love with those shoes but they already sold out.

The line is available via their online store www.surface2airparis.com as well as in their own stores in Paris and Sao Paolo as well as in selected luxury department store like Barneys or Le Bon Marché.

Ann Demeulemeester lace up boots

2009-05-15T07:15:00.001-07:00

Are they sandals or boots? The answer is both. Great for transitioning from spring to summer but I can see myself easily wearing them until late fall. Very easy to style too. I wore them with J Brand skinny jeans when they arrived but I actually prefer them worn with leggins or simply a dress/skirt and no hoisery at all.

Seems like every fashionista in the world wide web has these boots now. I must admit I'm a little bit behind the trend but it's mainly because these boots sold out so fast that I had a hard time finding them. And I wasn't prepared to pay the high mark ups on ebay at all. I saw antonioli had them in a while ago but not in my size. So I emailed them asking if they'd get more stock in but was told there won't be another shipment. When I randomly chcked their web site again I noticed that there was one pair in 37.5 back in. Must have been a return, I guess. So without thinking twice I had to order them. Sometimes you have to take the plunge.

If the weather hadn't been so unpredictable over here lately I'd probably never have taken them off except for sleeping. They are surprisingly comfy. I've seen a couple of knock offs floating around on the net. I guess laces are very in right now. I'll certainly keep wearing my boots long after the trend dies.

The return of the knuckle ring

2009-05-05T13:43:00.000-07:00

Bold jewellery and too much bling have been associated with gangsta rap and hip hop style for quite some time. I guess that's not the case anymore as celebs like Rihanna are starting to wear ghetto jewellery for fun. While I don't like knuckle rings with messages like "pow" or "bad" (too corny imo) I do like the simple version by Olsen twin's Elizabeth & James. It comes in both silver and brass. I think it's a statement piece without being too flashy but it can add a little something to a plain outfit.

I was looking for cheaper alternatives as the E&J ones are a bit too pricey for my taste - even though they are probably worth it when you tend to wear them often. However, I managed to get the silver ring (vintage from the 80s) off ebay for $30. I love it as it's not too big. The gold one I just came across in a German drugstore for like $7. It doesn't look as cheap though.

So mission of finding a good alternative for the E&J knuckle ring for less succesfully accomplished.

That was (only) acceptable in the 80s?

2009-05-03T11:54:00.001-07:00

Ok, first of all, I have to admit that I was born and grew up in the 80s. So I kinda remember the fashion from that decade very well (even though I was too young to actually wear most of it back then). Maybe that is one reason why I'm probably the only person who embraces the 80s revival in fashion instead of condemning it. Well, leggins have somehow become acceptable by most people - that's because they are affordable and easy to pull off.

Another trend that was very popular 20 years ago are shoulder pads in blazers and jackets. I have a feeling that they won't be around for long but I'm drawn to big shoulders at the moment. Think Balmain and Maison Margiela. While my taylor is currently working on my Balmain inspired blazer with big shoulders I went looking for some Margiela items and found this sweater for super cheap on the Yoox sample sale. I probably wouldn't have bought it if it had been super expensive because I don't know if I'll get a lot of use out of it but it's worth a try.

Even though it is a sweater I can wear it as a mini skirt. I'll probably add leggings out of laziness though. I think I'll layer a tank or bodysuit under it because the cleave is too revealing for my taste. I feel like a footballer with those pads btw. Unfortunately they keep slipping down my shoulders a little. It's a fun piece and will most certainly not become a mega trend which is why I like it. That, and the fact that it reminds me of my youth ;-)

Wrapped in Chains

2009-04-13T15:32:00.000-07:00

Ok, this trend is anything but new especially not after everybody blogging about it and after Erin Wasson has been photographed in her body chain to death. But I still like the idea of some unusual jewellery that can spice up a monochromatic or plain outfit. Sometimes one just needs a statement piece (when a simple silver necklace or big hoop earrings won't be enough).

I saw the various body chains and wraps on blisslau.com and was instantly intrigued. Unfortunately most of the items were out of my price range with $250 and up. I saw Wasson insprired chains on Etsy as well but still not quite what I was looking for. So I almost gave up on the idea until I came across ebay seller sisters*fashion. She has a couple of other Wasson inspired items (think shredded shirts) on ebay too so make sure to check out her items. The chain up for sale was exactly what I was looking for and with a great price too so I just had to buy it and didn't regret it ever since.

Here's how I wear my body chain - with a pretty plain shirt or top most of the time. I think key is to dress down because it can look trashy or tacky easily. I also like the idea of hiding part of the chain under a button down shirt (and leaving the top buttons open). I'll try that some time.

Spring Fling

2009-04-02T14:27:00.000-07:00

After the long winter season and a lot of rain and cold weather it seems like spring has finally arrived in this part of the world (better late than never). I looked through my closet and noticed tons of black and dark grey clothes. I'm not someone to wear bright photographic flower pieces but I figured some lighter colors and flutter dresses couldn't hurt to have in my closet (I'd still wear them with opaque tights though).

I came across this drop crotch t-shirt dress by Preen and can see it working its way into my wardrobe. It's actually not quite my style but I like the light fabric, color and the frilly skirt. The slightly loose oversized t-shirt look is also very much in style at the moment. I'll probably wear a cardi over or long sleeve shirt under it when it's too chilly.

Now I just hope spring is here to stay so I don't have to go back to black.

Statement necklaces

2009-03-15T02:52:00.000-07:00

Picked out a rather plain - bordering on boring - outfit and don't know how to spice it up? How about a bold necklace? You may rest assured that it will instantly update your wardrobe and simultaneously transition from work/day to night outfit.

There are many different kinds of necklaces available out there atm and fortunately most of them are affordable too. Huge are ethnik spike chains like this one from ASOS. As for me, I wanted to jump on the fringe bandwagon but boots and bags are so overdone that I was looking for something different - et voilà, I came across this fringe necklace from Babooshka Boutique when browsing through Etsy.

See how it adds a little glitz and special something to my cream sweater and black skirt combo? I really like it and will start playing around with it more for different effects. I can also see it with a white button down shirt or with a simple black tank. Options are endless.

Btw, Babooshka doesn't only carry fringe necklaces but also a nice range of clothes.

Four Ways to Wear Your Ex-boyfriend Shorts

2009-03-08T03:10:00.000-07:00

Why are these shorts called ex-boyfriend style? I have no idea! Maybe because after you stole them out of your b/f's closet he instantly became your ex. However, I have a feeling the shorts will stick around for much longer than the guy. That's probably because of their great versatility.

Once comes spring I'll probably live in them because they are so easy to wear. I recommend buying them one size bigger than your normal size for that oversized look (they make you look slimmer too ;-) ).

Here are four ways to wear them - although there are many more, of course:

dressy: pair with a blazer and a nice pair of shoes and you are ready for a night on the town
maritime: a simple striped shirt gives them a kind of holiday flair
casual/sporty: just add a simple sweater, boots and you are good to go (if you are into sneakers you can wear your converse with them too)
rock/biker chic: a band tee, leather jacket and your favorite pair of biker boots

H&M Home Collection

2009-03-07T07:32:00.000-08:00

article in German H&M magazine

Home Sweet Home

2009-03-07T07:05:00.000-08:00

A Swedish furniture giant has launched a new home collection. Sounds familiar? It's not the famous furniture department store with the blue and yellow logo that you might think of right now. But H&M is following in IKEA's shoes. The collection comprises everything from pillow cases, towels, shower curtains, linen to furniture.
For now the range of articles will only be available in selected European countries via mail order or online store. Color wise, there will be a selection of both neutrals and bold colors to mix and match, some of which remind me of a Jackson Pollock painting.

When I walked into H&M last week I was given a promo shopping bag in the colorful splash style that they have on their pillow cases and a pack of napkins.

Little Green Dress

2009-03-01T04:33:00.000-08:00

Green is the new black! No, I don't mean eco-friendly clothes made of organic fabric. I'm talking about bright green mini dresses as seen on Balmain's S/S 09 line. I have to admit that wearing a particularly colorful dress at an evening event when everybody else relies on the good old LBD is a bold move but it will sure make you the toast of town and earn admiring glances. I'm usually one to stick to solid colors like black, white, cream and grey myself because they are so easy to work with. But with spring approaching it might be agood idea to think outside the box for once and take a risk. Bright colors like electric blue, pink and orange are Designers' take on spring-time because they instantly update a seemingly dull fall wardrobe and add a certain freshness and unpredictability.

As for me, I'll certainly join the club but have yet to find the perfect green dress. Fortunately it's not quite spring-time yet so I still have to wrap myself in head to toe black until the new color palette finally hits the high street stores. We'll see how the hunt goes.

2009-03-01T04:24:00.000-08:00

German Vogue - February 2009

Drop-Crotch pants

2009-02-28T14:58:00.000-08:00

Leggins, skinny jeans, oversized blazers... you name it. Fashion from the 80s is in style at the moment and have hit designer boutiques as well as high street stores around the globe. Some may like and even embrace the new tendencies in fashion while others either ignore the trend or simply try to sit it out until the whole 80s revival will be over for good. One relict from that era are the new drop-crotch or harem pants that Marc Jacobs already incorprated in his spring '07 fashion line. Seeing specific clothes on models (who almost always look good - no matter how rediculous or over the top the outfits actually are) is one thing but having the guts to wear them out on the street yourself quite another.
So when I first spotted those pants - that are anything but flattering or lady like on a femme - on the runway my immediate reaction was: "U can't touch this! Not even MC Hammer could pull them off and start a long lasting trend so why would want us designers believe that more than 20 years later we will finally start to appreciate them?" They might work for Arabian sheiks from 1001 nights farytale lands and Alladin but not for a normal woman. So I pretty much tried to ignore the fact that they are around everywhere for as long as I could. That was before they started growing on me. The more I saw them the more I got the feeling that they might be a good alternative to dressy black pants or skinny jeans. They have something fresh about them and can be worn dressy as well a casual which is crucial for key pieces in my opinion.
I still wasn't quite convinced they'd look good on me at all considering the fact that I'm only 5'3. So I decided to try some inexpensive styles at Zara last December after seeing a girl from TheFashionSpot looking absolutely gorgeous in hers. Unfortunately they didn't look half as good on me so I left the store empty-handed and convinced that those pants are just not for me. However, they have been around for quite a while and after reading the newest issue of German InStyle magazine I decided to give it another shot. And even though I didn't really look for another pair at H&M on Friday I found one that I thought could work. Also, for the first time I didn't have the feeling they make me look like I gained 5 pounds so I took the pair home and started to play around with them. I like them best with a simple grey shirt and gladiator sandals.

Well, not sure the trend will stick around for long this time but for now it will add a "fresh breeze" to my wardrobe. As I didn't pay a fortune I won't be too diappointed to see them disappear forever this time ;-)