Gypsy Village

La Belle Table: Moroccan Mood

2012-02-14T14:50:00.000+03:00

Beautiful table styling in tones of grey and orange

done by David Grenier (food stylist) and Sasha Seymour (prop stylist)

My all-time favourite fruit!
I like the way it's split on a copper tray, beautiful fabric as a background, too!

Images via here

♥♥

2012-02-14T12:15:00.000+03:00

HAPPY VALENTINE's DAY! ;)

Photography by Kenvin Pinardy

Fashion Inspiration: Jyothsna Chakravarthy: A Model Life

2012-02-13T12:25:00.000+03:00

...we are simply exhausted of having such shocking frosts raging here in Europe, with temperatures reaching -30C !! A good news is that the ice age is reported to cease by the end of this week, for what I, after months of continuous yearning for heat, juicy colours and lots of sun, do hope fervently!

Meanwhile, seeing such pictures like these below is one of my favorite ways to hold out until Spring, not just surviving but keeping inspired!

Jyothsna Chakravarthy photographed by Diego Fuga for Harper's Bazaar India, June, 2011

Fashion Inspiration: Breaking Dawn

2012-02-11T16:22:00.001+03:00

Masha for Harper’s Bazaar Arabia, July/August, 2010

Photographer: Susanne Spiel

Images via glamcheck

The Fornasetti World...

2012-02-10T00:34:00.000+03:00

Fornasetti is an Italian design house founded by Piero Fornasetti (1913–1988),

a Milanese painter, sculptor, interior decorator, engraver of books and a creator of more than 11,000 products!

Below are the famous Fornasetti prints from the series 12 mesi 12 sole.

Nowadays, Piero Fornasetti's son Barnaba runs the business. Here, signor Barnaba in his living room of the family house, a 19th century Milanese villa.

images via here
Barnaba, is perpetuating the Fornasetti tradition by continuing to produce, and revive, Fornasetti designs. At the helm of the company and its creative heart, Barnaba is the custodian of his father’s legacy. {...The colorful home study of Barnaba Fornasetti, with “Quattro stagioni” on the floor by Roubini Rugs. The desk “Riga e Squadra” was designed by Barnaba and the chair “Moro” by Piero...} via brillanteinteriors {...Barnaba Fornasetti's main office at home with the rug “Poliedri” by Roubini Rugs. Vintage “Leopardo” cabinet, trompe l’oeil “Paggio” on the door and several drawings on the walls are all by Piero, the beautiful floor lamp is a vintage called “Cammei” by Piero and the whimsical magazine holder “Luna” was designed by Barnaba...} via brillanteinteriors

An atelier, where the design gets born! And this is a brand store Fornasetti in Milan.

via here

You can see more colourful images of the Fornasetti's villa here

Fornasetti: The Complete Universe grand book

includes 3,000 photographs and illustrations

Some Beauty from GUL AHMED

2012-02-09T11:20:00.000+03:00

These are from my unpublished archives. Am loving these stunning, rich embroideries, traditional patterns and artful beadwork from Kalash valley!

All from previous Gul Ahmed collections.

Fashion Inspiration: 1950s ~ Dream Away

2012-02-08T11:51:00.000+03:00

Liu Wen for Vogue China September 2010

Photographer: Paolo Roversi

Floral Paintings by Vie Dunn-Harr

2012-02-07T23:51:00.000+03:00

Vie Dunn-Harr (born in San Antonio, Texas, in 1953) is a contemporary realist painter from US. She studied in Florence, Italy at the Lorenzo de Medici Instituto de Arte and at the Toblach-Dobbiaco Academia Italia.
{...She derived much of her early experience from the traditional school and continues to embrace formalism. Her works are organic forms rooted in architectural elements. The forms are sensuous and portray the force and fragility of nature...}

Balthus Remembered - oil on canvas - 24"x30"

A Vine in Tangerine - oil on canvas - 20"x24"

Nature's Offering - 30"x43"

Garden of Visage - 30"x30"

Jana's Magnolias in the Garden of Hunsicker - oil on canvas - 48"x60"

Amazon Tango - oil on canvas - 30"x40"
Nature's Jewelry - 20"x16"

Images via official Vie Dunn-Harr's website and via here

... Moroccan Living

2012-02-07T21:46:00.000+03:00

... while I am a bit busy with my evening house chores at the moment (yet hoping to be able to do one more post for today), I decided to publish a few images of beautiful Moroccan rooms from my drafts to keep inspiration moving ...

Images via design-remont

Chocolate Vine

2012-02-06T21:49:00.005+03:00

A picture in a small local flower magazine showing a liana abundantly covered with delicate, fleshy flowers has caught my eye immediately. The official name of this evergreen plant is Akebia Quinata, originated from Japan, Korea and China.
And an exciting feature about Akebia is that its inflorescences have a fine chocolate scent! Hope, one day, I could show you photos of Akebia taken right in our garden! Meanwhile, added to my garden wishlist :)

Image via here
One and the same plant bears both male and female flowers. There are a few sorts with creamy white flowers (you will see a one down below), so I don't know what's the difference then... But, traditionally, male flowers are bright pink and female ones are brownish pink.

Image via here
Akebia "Shirobana"

Image via here
Akebia needs sun, a little breeze and a support as it may be over 10 m long, but it's also said to be a great ground cover.

Image via here And such are Akebia's fruits! Edible, by the way!

I have found an interesting description on it: {...Only the pulp is edible, a sweet gelatinous confection full of seeds. The pods split open by themselves and are a pale blue-lavender, and look like something from outer space...} I wonder if the fruits taste like chocolate too?

Image showing akebia's fruits at Tokyo's market is via here
Small image in upper right-hand corner via here

Fashion Inspiration: WILD DREAMS

2012-02-05T23:51:00.000+03:00

Another interesting tribal photoshoot done by Liu Wen for Vogue Germany, November, 2010

Photographer: Greg Kadel

Fashion Inspiration: NOMADIC UNLIMITED

2012-02-05T22:18:00.000+03:00

Tribal Haut Couture Beauty at its wildest!
If not completely copying the looks from head to toe, but there are definitely many nomadic pieces I would be loving to add into my daily wear!

Liu Wen photographed by Thomas Schenk in in a smashing editorial “Nómadas” for Vogue Espana, January, 2011

Some of the featured brands: Comme des Garcons, Jean Paul Gaultier, Ralph Lauren

Stylist: Havana Laffite

MISS CLARA

2012-02-04T17:52:00.001+03:00

In the heart of Bordeaux, France, in an old townhouse dated 1897, there lives a fascinating artist: an illustrator and designer, Claire Guiral, generally known as Miss Clara!

This house, where she lives with her husband Philip, is definitely one of its kind: theatrical, romantic, surrealistic yet very homey interiors filled with vintage treasures and creations made by Miss Clara whose favorite materials to work with are paper and fabrics!

The interiors remind me of a book I once read - Sky-locked Atlas by Goran Petrović.
While reading the book, I was always imagining interiors that were so alike to these of Miss Clara!

... Bouquets of dried hydrangeas and stagings of old objects associated with the paper creations of the hostess, usually placed under globes to be out of reach of the cats in the house.

Sofas and armchairs covered with plaids and silky velvet cushions strewn with flowers made from old curtains -- everything disposes for relaxing daydreaming in a poetical atmosphere.

Small colorful characters like princesses, malicious goblins, languishing mermaids and colorful birds are born under her nimble, meticulous fingers.

Claire confesses: " As a child, I felt like an adult, and now, being an adult, I still feel the presence of the solitary and dreamy little girl in me. "

To make her miniatures, Miss Clara needs very few materials: glue, scissors, gouache and paper. She states that "paper is cheap, easy to find and store material with which one can get different textures: crumpling, cons-collage, paint, wash ... "
Being firstly trained as graphic designer, Miss Clara now continues also as an illustrator of children's books.
She photographs some of her creations, then reworks the images on computer by performing a montage of photos and materials to illustrate books and postcards.

Images and text (an edited google-translation) via E-magDECO, first seen at thedovecotebrocante

You may also visit the official site and a blog of Miss Clara:

Website: http://missclara.free.fr/
Blog: http://lescarnetsdemissclara.blogspot.com/

FEBRUARY: Chocolate and Roses

2012-02-03T09:36:00.004+03:00

One morning, on the recent new year's holidays, I woke up with an idea of a themed month. I choose a theme, according to my sensations, and decide where I would love to go, what I'd like to do, what I'd be wearing, and stuff like that. Everything according to the chosen theme! The voice from within didn't hesitate to suggest my February should be all about Chocolate and Roses! Hope you will like these ideas!

"THE ANSWER IS CHOCOLATE and THE QUESTION IS PRETTY MUCH IRRELEVANT"

Sticky Dark Chocolate via cookrepublicJoie de Vivre roses on the left are via styleroses.co.uk

Torres Fotografia TO HAVE AN EVENING OUT in
Ozone bar on the 118th floor of the Ritz Carlton, Hong Kong. I am loving these melting chocolate interiors with coral pink glazed pillars..! As if you are inside a chocolate bar! | images via google search

TO WEAR GUL AHMED's VICTORIAN ERA INSPIRED APPARELS (Winter 2010)

TO READ

TO LISTEN
So very beautiful song AJNABI by a Pakistani pop singer AAMIR SALEEM And, finally, I had some fun making the themed set at polyvore

Chocolate and Roses by zarahassan

And what could be your dreamy February?

A NEW ROSE MONICA BELLUCCI

2012-02-01T22:56:00.001+03:00

Today, I was examining a catalog for the newest sorts of roses, and my eyes just popped out when I saw a rose with the name Monica Bellucci! This is a hybrid tea rose of Parfums De Provence series by a French company Meilland. Somehow hard for me to imagine its fragrance, but it's said to be intense, with specific tones of pepper, anise and cloves..!
I would love this in our garden!

Monica Bellucci and Bianca Balti for Dolce&Gabbana Spring 2012

2012-01-31T22:11:00.000+03:00

Stunning Monica Bellucci in a traditional South Italian family like fashion photoshoot for the newest D&G Spring collection!

These tomatoes, chili peppers and aubergines prints!! So yummy, and so Italian!

Lace clothes are always right choice when you want a very feminine, refined, classy and seductive look with a touch of vintage, all in one!

p.s. my apologies for I had to flip some images for their better presentation.

original source is here

Carte Blanche Capsule Collection for Sportmax by Lola Schnabel

2012-01-30T22:31:00.000+03:00

A NY artist Lola Montes Schnabel has created a capsule collection CarteBlanche specially for the Italian brand Sportmax. First, it was a series of water colours in dreamy soft tones enhanced with natural pigments on Italian paper which then, were reprinted on shopping bags, blouses and silk scarves. The set is limited, only 1000 unique designer pieces will be on sale along with the official Sportmax S/S 2012 collection.

Images via vogue.it

Art: Interiors Paintings ~JEREMIAH GOODMAN

2012-01-30T15:13:00.003+03:00

I suppose, this would be the last part of my Tony Duquette trilogy (two preceding posts are here and here). One discovery led to another, and, at papercitymag, I got to know about this great artist of incredible talent - Jeremiah Goodman, who's specializing on painting lux interiors of many famous people!

Usually, painted living spaces are presented as backgrounds against which the main character is shown. And I could never imagine the interiors' solo may be this catching!

{...Jeremiah Goodman was born in 1922 in upstate New York and currently lives and paints in Manhattan. Goodman has painted illustrations of interior spaces for nearly every design magazine from the 1950s - when he became the cover artist for Interior Design magazine, and went on to illustrate for Harper’s Bazaar and Vogue, through the present.

His moody gouache paintings “interpreted” the homes of international luminaries and spaces created by global design leaders: Bruce Weber, Edward Albee, Yves Saint Laurent, Mario Buatta, Billy Baldwin, Elsie de Wolfe, Diana Vreeland, the Duchess of Windsor, Rose Cumming, Sir John Gielgud‚ Greta Garbo, Cecil Beaton, etc...}

text via froelick gallery

I will start with this amazing painting featuring Tony Duquette's living room!

{...Goodman, now 88, is working in his NY studio every day, creating rich, painterly watercolor and gouache depictions with a depth of color that saturates the paper and boards like pigment-rich oils. His painted rooms appear both vivid and multidimensional; peer into them, and it feels as if you could walk in and take a seat upon the silk-velvet sofa, as every soft fabric fold and enveloping nuance is subtly revealed...} text via papercitymag

via here

Green and Floral room | via here

Jeremiah-Goodman_The garden room of Sir Cecil Beaton (Ashcombe,England, 1980) inspired a scene in My Fair Lady | via here

Betsey Bloomingdale's Living Room | via here

Diana Vreeland's New York City apartment | via here

Leonard Stanley | via here

David Hicks, drawing room | via here

via here

The book Jeremiah: A Romantic Vision is a wonderful gift

for all art & interior design lovers!

The book is a 208-page retrospective of Goodman’s career, with over 80 plates of Goodman’s work, photos and ephemera from his life, and reflections from Goodman himself.

Fashion Inspiration: DAY DREAM

2012-01-29T00:04:00.005+03:00

Far Eastern style inspired fashion and floral accessories!
A Day Dream in hazy fumes...

Surprisingly, this editorial from Vogue Germany is coming like a seamless continuation of my previous post -- ~~as if~~ the shooting were held right in Tony Duquette's oriental garden, at Dawnridge... exactly there!

Karlie Kloss by Alexi Lubomirski for Vogue Germany December 2011

Tony Duquette

2012-01-28T00:26:00.002+03:00

For me, this has been one of those unexpected, greatest inspirations that come to be discovered purely by chance! And if you, like me, were not familiar with Tony Duquette (11 June 1914 – 9 September 1999, Los Angeles, California) until this time, he was an outstanding American artist, interior and jewelry designer, costume and set designer for stage and film.

The materials magician and a master of illusions, his style cannot be defined in one word. I would say, it is a lush, multi-layered global fusion of artful treasures designed and arranged with much heart.
Or, partly, his style tends more likely to be called 'eclectic' -- "composed of elements drawn from various sources," -- but the epithets seem to be really countless.

His own Dawnridge estate serves as a live example of the harmonious coexistence of different epochs from different continents united under one roof.

"Decorating is not a surface performance,
it's a spiritual impulse,inborn and primordial." --Tony Duquette

Vogue Living, Sept/Oct, 2011 | Photographer Richard Powers
"Whether they included Versailles-style mirrors crowned with lobsters, 18th-century French paneling studded with pieces of sea coral or antique Gobelin tapestries framed with leopard-print velvet, Duquette's Hollywood Regency-style fantasies never failed to delight..."

Vogue Living, Sept/Oct, 2011 | Photographer Richard Powers "So if you fancy a room where silver-mounted ostrich eggs, swordfish snouts and butterfly wings keep you company while you have your coffee, explore the magic of Tony Duquette." — Xenia Viray, Zoom Zoom Magazine
Vogue Living, Sept/Oct, 2011 | Photographer Richard Powers

Vogue Living, Sept/Oct, 2011 | Photographer Richard PowersAll images above are from Vogue Living Australia

Dining Room at Dawnridge photographed by Lisa Romerein | via magazinec.com

.?.

The Sunroom at Dawnridge “My designs always spring from imagination and the natural beauty of materials at hand, rather than from arbitrary definitions of luxury,” the designer once said. "The Tea House" in the Duquettes' Malibu ranch Sortilegium | via here

The malachite Dining room at Dawnridge | via here
Tony Duquette's orientalist garden at his Malibu ranch Sortilegium is filled with pagodas, pavilions and whimsical statues and ornaments!

via nytimes
via fragilbazar

Rajput soldiers guarding the entrance to Frogmore -the Duquettes' own house, Malibu

The Pond at Dawnridge | via here

The screened-in porch at Duquette's ranch, Frogmore Hall, in Malibu An extravagant table setting inspired by Tony Duquette's style featuring his famous signature — 'the single, artfully placed polyp branch.' | via here

via marthastewart
A couple of stunning jewelry pieces designed by Tony Duquette

Harper's Bazaar (March, 2008) made this wonderful spread named 'Fresh Florals' that was shot at Dawnridge.

And, finally, some images I liked from the "Colorful Summer": Malgosia Bela as Talitha Getty in a Tony Duquette Interior for Vogue Italia. |Photography by Steven Meisel

I decided to present this post mostly as a colorful visual tour into Tony Duquette's world. Yet, some readings are inevitable, and I hope, my pictorial would be helpful for deeper involvement then.
Actually, photography and printed materials on Tony Duquette are available in the net in abundance, and to write more or less comprehensively about this unique artist a book-length post is needed!
And here they are: Tony Duquette by Wendy Goodman and Hutton Wilkinson(2007)

on sale at amazon at 56$
and More is More (2009) by Hutton Wilkinson (Duquette's protege and business partner for 30 years)
There is even one more glamorous edition - "Tony Duquette/Hutton Wilkinson Jewelry."

"...This precious luxury edition, with its gold foil stamping and gilt-edge pages, itself resembles an exquisite jewelry box, tempting all to peek inside and discover untold treasures..." "Beauty, not luxury, is what I value. I do it to see the smile on people's faces.”

via dezignlicious

*Featured quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are from a couple of interesting and informative articles: here, at panachemag, and the New York Times.

Beautiful Bathroom Ideas (updated 20.01.2012)

2012-01-20T12:09:00.001+03:00

Here are my today's findings to get inspired:

some very different bathrooms - from ethnic and vintage to metallic glam!

I heart all Moroccan (and those a la Moroccan) bathrooms, though, others, sure, have their special appeal too;
and which bathroom could be yours?

via trouvais

via wonderinglotus

.?. via tumblr search

via eclecticrevisited

All unreferenced images are via here

Cosy Nooks

2012-01-18T23:39:00.000+03:00

This collection of images was formed rather spontaneously, I've just been collecting pictures I found attractive. But they can be united under one common category as 'cosy spots where you can stay in private and relaxe.' Hope you like!

♥

♥♥

All images above via here ♥♥♥
Elle Decor Russia

Fashion Inspiration: SHANGHAI NIGHTS

2012-01-17T23:39:00.000+03:00

I am loving just every peculiar detail in this photo session -- paper umbrellas and fans, textured pillows and rich, glittering textiles,
bamboo theme accented with the splashes of gold!
Such a lighthearted, carefree mood in the spirit
of a Chinese vintage glam!

Tara Emad (Egypt) for Harper's Bazaar Arabia, April, 2011

Photographer: Andrew Hobbs

Prada S/S 2012 for Men

2012-01-15T11:05:00.000+03:00

I like Miuccia Prada for men this year very much! Tomboy-style berets, floral and checkered prints, slim-legged trousers and golf-inspired shoes!

Officially, the collection is meant to bring the feel of the American 50s, the era of Elvis Presley. Yet, to me, it somehow has a very Italian spirit , so, even if I didn't know it is Prada, I would still be sure it should be something Italian!

Joy Collection by Karma

2012-01-13T11:10:00.000+03:00

My previous post was about where in Budapest I would be loving to indulge in a morning tea one day. And here's what could be the perfect apparels specially for that romantic escapade I am dreaming of!
The collection does full justice to its name. Really, a pure Joy brought by Karma!

Image via dil say dil tak

Presented at PFDC Sunsilk Fashion Week 2011, the whole collection is simply breathing with the Spring Freshness and Happiness!
Flower jewelry and hair accessories complete the charm!

The catwalk is said to have been choreographed: models were playing with umbrellas, winking, blowing kisses and interacting with each other in every nice way!

Such a great idea, as it helps to fully bring out the collection's unique story!

In this girly garden of soft pastels there still was found a place for juicy Orange!

A special, 'grown-up' collection for little princesses! And just look at their faces, so adorable!

via asianaires

New York Cafe in Budapest

2012-01-12T10:06:00.000+03:00

We've been in Budapest many times, but seem to have never heard of such a luxurious spot out there! I wonder, were we ever walking nearby? Definitely, we should have! Now, I see it as one more of the countless reasons why we need to come back!
I can imagine us sitting there early in the morning, sipping aromatic tea or coffee with a fine slice of Esterhazy torte or a Raspberry Cream Roulade (oh, my goodness!) while bathed in the magical play of lights and reflections all around us!

Just read how intriguing it sounds as they describe the cafe's interiors in their official site:

"Noble colours and materials. Gold, marble, both reflect the light. Moderately. Lots of wood, metal, glass, moderate elegance. Large spaces and cosy corners, breathe in proud or hide if you like."

"...The majestic building Boscolo New York Palace Hotel and Cafe was built in eclectic style relying on Italian renaissance and baroque; its lavishly furnished interiors were designed in the spirit of historical eclecticism. Everything being made of marble, bronze, silk and velvet many people compared the building to the palace of the Bavarian King Louis II.
The ceiling was decorated with the marvellous panel paintings of Gusztáv Mannheimer and Ferenc Eisenhut at the entrance a fountain, in the halls Venetian chandeliers dazzled visitors.

In the Café beside the women’s and gambling room in the “deepwater” a billiard-room also found a place. According to the Pest rumour on the opening day a famous writer Ferenc Molnár together with his journalist friends threw the keys of the Café into the Danube to have it open 24 hours a day..."

"...The New York was a music café: from the beginning gypsy music was to be heard with brass music in wintertime..."

More reading on the place at BudapestZin
Images via google search and flickriver

Fashion Horoscope 2012

2012-01-10T12:00:00.001+03:00

I've just came across this interesting fashion horoscope Star Signs featured in one of the Vogue's issues, telling what fashion style characterizes each astrological sign.

Featured outfits are by Alexander McQuenn, Lanvin and Christopher Kane among others.

Model: Siri Tollerod

Photographer Tim Gutt

Set Designer: Shona Heath

Stylist: Kate Phelan

Aries Fashion Horoscope

Aries is the vanguard and true leaders when it comes to fashion. You are obsessed with shopping and it obviously makes you feel perfect. A lot is happening on both the home and professional fronts. This creates a need to not only dress to impress and put a lot more effort into creating the right professional look or impression, it comes when you have little time or need for complications. Feeling confident is important and creativity and colour, with organisation the key to bringing it together. Pay you attention to details. If you have already smartened up then you have an exact aim: to impress, to catch eyes.

Your colours: red, brown, black, ochre and gold.

Your preferences: thigh high boots, classy oxfords, a big handbag and a bold look!

Taurus Fashion Horoscope

Taurus should create the right balance between work and play. Such combinations look fresh and youthful. Whether it’s a fashion rut or a rut in general, you’re able to fuse this with a powerful sense of creativity to create a new look, one that will evoke a sense of adventure. You know your body shape perfectly and can emphasize the merits and hide the shortcomings. Choose the fashion tendencies that make you look irresistible. So to say, beauty in harmony.

Your colours: pink and all its tints from salmon to peach, green, chestnut and motton blue; floral motives.

Your preferences: short dresses, figured low necks, cute feminine details (accessories, hairdos) and image joining this beauty.

Gemini Fashion Horoscope

Gemini has the fullest wardrobe comparing with any other zodiac signs. Yet it’s a series of small changes that can have an even more powerful impact, with every journey made up of a succession of steps, taken one step at a time. And your style is always admired and considered thoroughly. Make your friends envy you more by adding a few sumptuous skirts to your wardrobe! Miniskirts, fabulous jeans and style sexy make your friends feel jealous and admiration. Play with colours.

Your colours: cool-blue, turquoise, green and silver.

Your preferences: kerchief, shoulder bags to have free hands.

Cancer Fashion Horoscope

Cancer: alluring, emotional and vulnerable. You should expect some special event in your life. Although you often feel shy and are afraid to look funny or ridiculous in the outfit you’ve chosen you need to open up a bit and show everyone that you have your own style that is independent from any other’s. Forget about fashion staples like suits and select a trendy garment that will flatter your shape. Dress up when you want to and dress down when you feel like it. Get ready for it and put on the most outstanding gown, made of chiffon that bewitches allowing seeing the lines of your shape. Your accessories are the mother-of-pearl, platinum, silver and gold earrings, stones – pearls, emerald and moonstone, soft scarves, lace underwear, satin shoes.

Your colours: contrast combination of black and white; pastel shades: grey, beige, mallow; and all the tints of blue and green.
Your preferences: comfort trousers, elegant dresses and shoes of high quality, a delicate scarf and gloves.

Leo Fashion Horoscope
Leo loves luxurious cloths, fur and leather: you always want the best! You adore all kinds of handbags. Don’t buy cheap bijouterie as you deserve the masterpieces! Add one more gorgeous handbag into your collection. And you have lots of them in your wardrobe already but still another one will never be bad. You need to schedule in time to relax and unwind, the last thing you need is any fashion pressure as well. It’s when you’re forced to dress up when you don’t want to that you may feel inclined to rebel but with Venus.

Your colours: warm hues, all the tints of red, orange and yellow colours.

Your preferences: knee-length dresses and costumes and very long trousers a-la Katherine Hepburn.

Virgo Fashion Horoscope

Virgo prefers to combine beauty and functionality. You are obsessed with details. Everything you buy will look great on you. But to avoid spending too much try to focus on the things you need like for instance, lingerie. Purchase a few ensembles that suit you perfectly. Black and white sets are a must for you. Unleash a romantic, creative and playful vibes into your style. You like to estimate your style to the tiny details but try to be a bit spontaneous. Your helpers are a jacket and a light top. Stars know that your image is created by the details. Look feminine and avoid complicated combinations.

Your colours: black, white, dark-blue, all the hues of red, pink and orange.

Your preferences: long and light dresses with cardigan, office costumes, Greek style sandals and classic shoes.

Libra Fashion Horoscope

Libra, is harmonic in dressing as you can find the balance between forms and colours. Easy you could be seen as a fashionista. Everyone admires you, considers your outfits. Avoid creating pressure on the fashion front. This may mean lowering your standards a little and instead of going for the perfect look every time, go for one that is less aimed at perfection. Strike a balance between looking good, but not at the expense of your nerves. Try outwear following the shape of your frame finished with a red hot accessory. To create a sort of alluring look all you need to do is mix neutrals with a pop of colour.

Your colours: blue, dark-blue, turquoise, pink and bright red.

Your preferences: plaid cloths, drape, jackets with unusual details (military-inspired piquet’s), and a bold watch.

Scorpio Fashion Horoscope (Me!)

Scorpio evokes a sense of adventure or even rebellion. Definitely you go for variety, adventure and for getting out a new look; you’ll be surprised what a fresh approach to what you wear can do. When you make the fashion choices, you like shopping cloths that are attracting everybody’s attention, don’t you? And how you do it? With bright and bold jewellery, of course! Huge chunky bracelets and necklaces, earrings that sparkle and hang down to your shoulders – are what you like the most. Try something different, a vibrant scarf, maybe? You are low maintenance, Stars say. Your style should be sensitive and provocative but never vulgar. Choose soft cloths, leather and knits. High boots and stilettos should be irreplaceable footwear. Don’t be afraid to be brave in your decisions.

Your colours: intensive, contrast combinations of black and red and white; golden and cherry colours.

Your preferences: Utilitarian boots, caftans, striped sweaters, short dresses, massive rings with dark stones.

Sagittarius Fashion Horoscope

Sagittarius, Glamour is what you love the most. Long evening gowns, sophisticated jewellery, chic shoes and bags make your heart beat faster. Avoid spending on a new look until you’re ready or because you have to. The stars offer you to try a different thing – sporty clothes. We know it’s a huge contrast to what you are used to but such garments will always be useful – when you do sports, go to mountains or just relax at home. Light blue and white are the best colours for you. If shopping for something new is a stress release and retail therapy works for you, then go ahead, with looking and feeling good having a big impact. Sagittarius goes well with ethnic motives as for example African or Indian costumes. We recommend you to have uncommon accessories that emphasize your individuality. You can muffle yourself up with a scarf or a warm tunic.

Your colours: indigo, orange, purple and red – all the tints of Eastern inspiration; blue and dark-blue; golden.

Your preferences: linen, big handbags; golden, wooden and mother-of-pearl bracelets, semiprecious stone.

Capricorn Fashion Horoscope

Capricorn loves luxurious clothing. When you walk both men and women ogle you. Your sexual style enraptures men’s eyes you look gorgeous, and it’s not only because you prefer luxurious clothing but also because your strong personality is seen through. Your colours are red and black, and their combination makes you look irresistible. When it comes to fashion you’re more ready to take risks and to move out of a rut and it’s likely to create a change in fashion tastes.

If you are inclined to minimalism, then try silver and golden jewellery, but it should be a worthy-of-you thing.

Your colours: black, grey, beige, and dark-blue and green.

Your preferences: an awesome watch, square-toe-shoes, a miniskirt, dark precious stones.

Aquarius Fashion Horoscope

Aquarius has an artistic and fashion flair. Sport outfits are what you feel great in – warm and comfortable. And you know that beside that you do look fashionable in those. When you’re battling with big choices and decisions it’s often easier to shift this onto the small choices, like what should you wear, blowing things out of proportion. Don’t make fashion choices more of a big deal than they are. Try to create your own lines relying on the taste and your instinct. Try unusual and not boring trends. You work hard for your body, show it off in style.

Your colours: lilac, purple, violet, dark-blue, black and white.

Your preferences: blouses, V-necked pullovers, leather clothes.

Pisces Fashion Horoscope

Pisces seducing, dreamy and bright. You are to draw the attention of people around you .You like clinging clothes, those that accentuate you curves well. A beautiful blouse that will make the most of your body and a pencil skirt, it will make you look elegant. Sea colours are very flattering for you. The key is to wear things that make you feel confident. A new look for a job interview or an important professional situation is worth the investment, even if you can’t really afford it. A good strategy for success is when you are realizing the importance of spending time or money on yourself. You should opt for clinging clothes and low-necked things and wear romantic outwear. Use silver, golden and pearl earrings, necklaces to add some gloss to your image.

Your colours: all hues of blue, lilac, violet and green; soft glimmering colours.

Your preferences: silver handbags and rugged footwear, wide jeans combined with stylish tops.

Well, do you agree with your horoscope?

As for me, it seems, a great deal of what is my style went to Sagittarius..!

And, no, I don't like short dresses and utilitarian boots!! 8/

But as to the scorpio's love for bright and bold jewelry, they speak the truth! ;)

Images and a horoscope via stylert

GENERATION Spring 2011-2012 Lawn Collections

2012-01-08T22:00:00.000+03:00

I've posted about the Generation's Eid collection a short time ago, and now here's a little mix of their lawn collections 2011/12!

I am in love with the colourful floral patterns, everything is so joyful and so very summer!

Chinese Floral Arrangements

2012-01-07T15:38:00.000+03:00

Until this moment, I never happened to have any slightest interest in the art of ikebana.
But now, I can really see the poetry blossoming out of all these refined creations!

Featured below is a captivating poem Ikebana by Cathy Song.

All images are from park.org where you may read about 5 styles of traditional Chinese art of flower arranging and see more of such beautiful compositions!

Fashion Inspiration: Vogue China~ Winter Wonderland

2012-01-06T22:04:00.000+03:00

"...Before you love, learn to run through the snow, leaving no footprint..."

Turkish Proverb

Du Juan for Vogue China, December, 2010

Fashion Inspiration: An Awfully Big Adventure

2012-01-06T12:14:00.001+03:00

NOW, WHAT ABOUT MOVING FROM MEXICO TO
THE WILD PRAIRIES OF... MONGOLIA?!

Kirsi Pyrhonen for Vogue UK, December, 2011

Photographer: Tim Walker

Style: Kate Phelan

Images via LelaLondon

Fashion Inspiration: A World Away | Conquering New Heights of Fashion

2012-01-04T17:51:00.001+03:00

... Some outfits from this collection, rich in ethnic Mexican motifs, may definitely be warmely welcomed into my wardrobe, even for the winter everyday wear, and, first of all, it would be this gorgeous zipped coat by John Galliano!
A part of the chiffon dress by Christopher Kane visible under the coat looks appealing, too, as I always love colourful prints on black!

Meghan Collison by Norbert Schoerner for Harper's Bazaar UK, November, 2010

Happy New Year of the DRAGON! ...and a Fashion Inspiration

2012-01-02T15:43:00.004+03:00

Hello my dear bloggy friends, readers, followers and subscribers! We are already embracing the first days of the new year 2012, which, according to Chinese zodiac calendar, is the year of the Dragon -- symbol of Happiness, Immortality, Procreation, Fertility and Activity. Also, Chinese Dragons are believed to ward off evil spirits!

Thus, in spite of many controversial predictions, in 2012, there seems to be literally no place left for the end of the world, right?!

I suggest, this year should be proclaimed as the Beginning of the new Era of Light -- let's start new projects, explore new horizons, let your imagination go flying with the ride on your personal dragon's back, let's live every moment with an open heart, joyfully, playfully, brightly, yummy and passionately! Let's make the world Beautiful! We are all here with that purpose, aren't we?

I believe, if we stay true to ourselves we can accomplish everything!
Happy Riding, guys! ;)

***

Now, this wonderful photo session in a very dragon style - faerie colours, kaleidoscopic prints and flowing silhouettes!

Model: Carola Remer for Vogue Germany, January, 2012

Photographer: Greg Kadel

Images via blog.stylert.com

Generation Look Book, Eid Collection 2010/11

2011-12-30T23:46:00.005+03:00

My long-time readers already know, when it comes to Pakistani fashion I simply cannot control myself eager to own literally every single outfit that comes to my sight!
And the same is so very true to the unique, original style clothing by a Pakistani brand Generation!

I am l♥ving just everything about the marvelous outfits below - deep berry colours...

-rich flower prints...

-bold floral embroideries that also remind me the traditional Hungarian embroidery...

-and the fabrics seem to be of the finest quality, evoking an immediate temptation to touch!

Currently no online shopping:(, but you might like to visit their Facebook page to

check the locations (almost all major cities of Pakistan), or

contact them via info@generation.com.pk

No doubt, adding Generation to my huge list of must-visit places, when I am in the area!

Betsey Johnson's Joie de Vivre

2011-12-28T15:56:00.004+03:00

Yesterday, I had such a lucky browsing during which I got to know about Betsey Johnson (born August 10th 1942, Wethersfield, Connecticut), an American fashion designer known for her feminine designs in flirty, whimsical style and her love for pink!

But a special luck was that I discovered lots of her wonderful living spaces that I all feature now here: first, two looks of Betsey Johnson's New York apartment -- joyful, bursting with colour village chic, that I absolutely LUV, converted then into a pink boudoir, and, finally, her charming, very country villa in Mexico. EnJOY!

via here
I am loving the Warren Platner lounge chairs from the 60s! The mage was featured in Elle Decoration UK, 2007

via here
Elle Decor via here
via here
Elle Decoration UK, 2007

...via google search

...via google search

From Metropolitan Home, 1997, via here

From Metropolitan Home, 1997, via here

via mainstreamimages
From Metropolitan Home, 1997, via here
From Metropolitan Home, 1997, via here

...via google search

images via here   ...via google search

Fashion Inspiration: Querelle Jansen and Marte Mei van Haaster in the ''South Of The Border''

2011-12-26T11:28:00.000+03:00

Querelle Jansen and Marte Mei van Haaster for Interview mag, Dec/Jan 2011/2012 in the utterly romantic pictorial 'South Of The Border'

Stylist: Karl Templer

Photographer: Mikael Jansson

Images via dejavu-intl blog

And do check their fantastic social website dejavu-intl where you may create your personal online magazine containing lookbook, recipes, catalogue, photobook and anything you like!! And even more - a possibility to create your own online shop!

You may register there even using your facebook or twitter accounts!

Lets meet there as well! I'll share my link once I am settled! ;)

Inspiring Homes: ECLECTIC LIVING in ALMA SQUARE

2011-12-25T20:34:00.000+03:00

First of all, my sincerest wishes of happiness to all my dear bloggy friends and readers celebrating Christmas! May blessings of God be with you all through the coming year!

Now, let me share with you some absolutely gorgeous, eclectic interiors of an apartment in Alma Square, in London! The flat, obviously breathing Africa, is a unique fusion of several different styles: ethnic, colonial, the so-called bohemian, even with a touch of rococo!

I could never imagine a room with the white and dark colours prevailing might look this fresh, refined and joyful! Even a disco ball, a sofa and a chair in silver metallic fit into the space so organically! Ok, no more words, just see yourself!

All images from shoot factory

Fashion Inspiration: PRINCELY STATE

2011-12-23T17:45:00.000+03:00

A former software engineer, now one of the Indian top models, Jyothsna Chakravarthy

portraying some royal looks in a Princely State photoshoot
for Vogue India, November, 2011.

Photographer: Diego FugaStylist: Deep Kailey

Images via reallifeiselsewhere

Fashion Inspiration: SONAM KAPOOR for VOGUE INDIA, Nov, 2011

2011-12-23T17:09:00.000+03:00

Stunning Sonam Kapoor poses in misty violets for Vogue India.

Photographer: Bruno Dayan Images via blogymate *
If you were ever dying to know what can be there, inside Sonam's bag, the secret is going to be revealed right now! :)

7321 Design for Stationary Lovers

2011-12-19T13:38:00.003+03:00

Neverending Story 7321 Design is a Korean brand offering beautiful vintage style stationary -- diaries, stamps, envelopes, writing papers and many more -- inspired by timeless tales like Alice in Wonderland, Le Petit Prince and Dorothy of Oz.

For all passionate travelers, a special, Souvenirs de Voyage series!

With such a nostalgically charming stuff, the writing experience converts into an exceptional delight and inspiring ideas should stream onto paper bountifully!

Strangely, it was hard to find any retailer for the brand on-line, but they have an official FB page where they supposedly accept private customer orders.

As for me, I've already put some items into my wishlist ! And, having said this, I officially welcome you to see what I have there or, better, you might like to create your own, so we could ~~steal each-others' findings~~ discover great things together!

A Guest Post: New England Christmas Decor

2011-12-18T17:57:00.000+03:00

Good day, my Friends! Please, welcome the very first guest post here, in Gypsy Village, and get inspired with some lovely Christmas decorating ideas!

***

Hi, I’m Joanna, a guest blogger for Design Shuffle, an online source for interior designers from around the world to showcase their designs. Visit the site to get a vast array of decorating ideas. Today, I’m sharing a bit of New England holiday decor.

After centuries of banned Christmas festivities by the Puritans, New Englanders have since embraced the holiday with enthusiasm. Period homes boast pine wreaths, elaborately decorated Christmas trees and nostalgic found objects. Take a look at some of our favorite New England holiday decorations. Thanks for letting me share!

A pair of ice skates is the focal point of this holiday wall hanging. It is both unique and nostalgic.

An 1815 Cape-style cottage is decorated for Christmas and made cozy by a roaring fire. Antique furnishings complete the look.

A book by Amy Whorf McGuiggan features a “treasury of traditions” in her book Christmas in New England.

A tiny village is decorated for the holidays complete with an ice skating rink and pine trees. We especially love the little lights decorating the homes.

A dining room filled with antiques offers holiday cheer with a beautifully decorated table and buffet. Stockings offer gifts for each guest. Doesn't this room inspire lots of dining room design ideas?

A Texas bedroom inspired by New England style is accented with pine wreaths at the windows and in a large box at the foot of the bed. The bed is decorated in Christmas colors with a lovely quilt.

A still life is festive and colorful fitting right in with Thanksgiving and Christmas decorations. Berry branches and small pumpkins complete the look.

A Christmas tree in shades of pink sits atop a column for an elegant look in this New England guest bedroom design. Images 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8

What do you think of New England decor? Be sure to head on over to Design Shuffle where you can learn about interior design styles and find inspiring decor from Boston interior designers and more!

ROSE GARDEN in PAKISTAN

2011-12-16T12:08:00.000+03:00

A bit of summer in winter: this rose paradise is located in Pakistan, Islamabad,

and belongs to a famous cricket player, Shahzad Ahmed!

Photos also via here

FANTASTIC BAGS by MARY FRANCES

2011-12-15T17:57:00.003+03:00

If you were conditioned to choose only one bag from the shown range of astonishing creations by Mary Frances, which one of these would be your ultimate pick?!

A tough task for a bag girl, I know!

Fashion Inspiration from Bergdorf Goodman Magazine ~ Holiday, 2011

2011-12-14T12:55:00.000+03:00

I remember me, as a child, always staring in awe at sunlit industrial constructions like these, below. May be it sounds strange, especially referring to a little child, but it's true, up to the present time. I have no clear explanation: may be it's the shapes, the giant proportions or anything else that keeps me feeling highly attracted. Anyway, I am so glad to have stumbled upon this photoshoot (yes, I like the clothes here too;), and hope you'll find it appealing as well!

Model: Guinevere Van Seenus for Bergdorf Goodman Magazine, 2011

Photographers: Sofia Sanchez and Mauro Mongiello

Love this lemon terry dress! Nothing irrelevant, and with such open-toe high boots the look is just perfect!

Pomegranate Necklace

2011-12-09T13:28:00.006+03:00

No, unfortunately it was not me who made this beautifulest necklace!

But, with my pomegranate mania, I always like to keep an eye on jewelry featuring pomegranates, and thus, one day, this piece was found, somewhere deep in the internet.
I can say, this one is the most artistic of all handmades in the category I've ever seen!

I tried to get in contact with the site where it was displayed (either for sale purposes or as an exemplary piece of someone's works) but got no answer back.

Then, the link was reported to be broken and I lost all traces from where I might be lucky to get this beauty or, at least, to know its author's name!

Isn't it a pity? It could have been such a perfect match to one of my early autumn outfits!

Now I am posting it here for your viewing pleasure, or it may also bring you some great ideas if you make jewelry yourself!
But I really think it's absolutely unique, right from the level of beads/pieces manufacturing! Looks incredibly natural!

Also, I'd like to share with you a fresh link I've discovered a few minutes ago! It is a wonderful blog, Treasures Found, full of spectacular handmade jewelry and stunning photography!

... and a few Royalty-Inspired Looks

2011-12-08T21:22:00.002+03:00

Looking back at my latest fashion posts, I am getting surprised at the current style metamorphosis. I mean, Gypsy Village has gone Royal?! Well, it has, for a short while, and now closing the series with some best images from a couple of previous Tatler issues.

P.S. Before you scroll down, I'm just feeling the need to make a little remark that I find absolutely antihumanistic and am against the commercial use of animals (fur industry, animal stuffing, etc). Cruelty can never be fashionable!
So, in spite of being shown on my blog, the certain images in this post and of the previous two (here and here) are for the sake of displaying elegant haute couture looks only.
Well, I suppose you might have gotten confused by now, but, actually, nothing shocking is awaiting you down below, only what we are all have been accustomed to call high glam..!

Ucranian model, Snejana Onopka for Tatler Russia, October, 2011
Photographer: Norman Jean Roy

Model: Ilse de Boer for Tatler Russia, May, 2011

Photographer: Bruno Dayan

MONICA BELLUCCI and ONE HUNDRED and ONE DALMATIANS

2011-12-07T11:17:00.001+03:00

Brilliant Monica Bellucci for Tatler Russia, December, 2011

Fashion Inspiration: RUSSIAN WINTER WONDERLANDS

2011-12-06T21:26:00.001+03:00

WELCOME TO THE IMAGINARY RUSSIA OF CZARS AND FINEST WINTER LUXURY!

Madeleine de la Motte and Anya Ziourova for Tatler Russia, December, 2011

Interiors: Swedish Styling

2011-12-06T00:22:00.010+03:00

Some interesting sitting-sleeping spaces by two Swedish stylists, Pia Ulin and Eva Lindh!

Most of the images here have something in common, as both the stylists tend to use rustic backgrounds for displaying the objects, often colourful ones!

What's there to me in this pic? Well, the glass bottles set, the egg-chair and the carpet, all in captivating ultra blues!

The suzani-like bedding is simply wonderful! I imagine the fabric must be so pleasant to the touch!

Again, a little crush on the bedding, so fresh and joyful!

A bookworm's dreamy weekend! Though I don't like massive, fat sofas, still the general look is quite comfy; nice use of dark berry colours, too...

The company of bright cushions grabs all my attention here! But, actually, I like everything on the background: a leafy plant, a couple of little tables and an egg-lamp on the left, all are very pretty together! To my mind, it looks such effective especially because of being set against the dazzling white...

...as if somewhere in a mystic medieval castle!

The bouquet is gorgeous!! Its pinks look so juicy in the embrace of dark charcoals all around! And a royal pillow set is beautiful..! Seems a combination of silk and velvet...

Don't know why, but I like the so-called winter bouquets very much - dried flowers and fancifully twisted sprigs without any leaves. To me, there is something mystical about them and so utterly romantic!

Lovely setting! ...and just look at the sofa!
♥

WRANGLER: When Vintage Meets Preppy...

2011-12-03T23:25:00.003+03:00

...I wonder if it's really the clothes being this cool or is it all about Tony Ward who makes the looks so feverishly attractive? Well, let's suppose the both of it!;)
Now, thinking, why not include Wrangler into our next to happen shopping spree? The ad works well, you know, right as it's intended to..! 8)

Though not having anything to do with Wrangler Blue Bell collection, but such a glamour cowboy look, isn't it?Tony Ward for Schön! magazine

...and, to top the pie, an ad shot for the campaign, just great!

KENZO TAKADA's NEW PARISIAN APARTMENT

2011-12-02T12:58:00.003+03:00

Knowing my everlasting feelings of inspiration towards Kenzo, both as a fashion designer and as a personality, a friend of mine has been fast to e-mail me these scans from the latest issue of a Russian weekly '7 days' featuring the grand couturier's Parisian apartment to which he's moved from his famous house near the Place de la Bastille where he had been living for 20 years.

Now, be the first to enjoy this exclusive sneak-peek into the maestro's new apartment before it may appear anywhere on the net; it still hasn't, I checked ;)

The magnificent chandeliers (above and below) were made by Kenzo's own sketches!
By the way: fancifully ornate chandeliers with plenty of crystal pendants are my current interior design's fash-fetich!

Dainty floral compositions are scattered all over Kenzo's apartment!

...72 years young Kenzo has passionately involved himself into the most desirable activities, those he could never allow himself when actively running his fashion house, - dancing flamenco and painting!

GUL AHMED BAGS and FOOTWEAR

2011-12-01T12:57:00.001+03:00

This is what I am currently craving for - Gul Ahmed's new line of high quality footwear and bags for complete, exquisite looks, from head to toe!

A famous fashion model Nadia Hussain hearts Gul Ahmed bags, too! Needless to say, I love them all..!

It seems, this line is not yet available for on-line selling, anyway I am giving a reference to Gul Ahmed's facebook page, for any inquiries...

Fashion Inspiration: MEN's kurtas

2011-11-30T13:15:00.001+03:00

...not quite sure about a couple of images, but most of the models here are from Gul Ahmed Gents previous collections. Just love the looks! Newest designs are declared to be on sale shortly, so we'll see then!

Many beautiful men's clothing made in Pakistan on sale at dressrepublic

SILK ROAD TRACES and A NEW "BAKU INTERNATIONAL"

2011-11-29T14:48:00.001+03:00

I have an exciting news for my Europe and US based readers - a new, glossy English edition of Baku International has been launched this October by Condé Nast!

It will be published quarterly and cover contemporary art, culture, fashion and lifestyle subjects of the beautiful and rich Azerbaijani culture, historical insights provided, as well as featuring other interesting events worldwide.

The magazine will be distributed in the UK, France, the US, Italy and some other lucky points.

Some notes about the Baku UK staff:

Darius Sanai, editorial director of the Contract Publishing Division, is appointed as a launch editor. Mary Fellowes, fashion director of VOGUE Turkey, stylist, fashion consultant, as a fashion director. Prominent contemporary art and luxury travel journalist and regular contributor to both Condé Nast Traveller and the Financial Times, Claire Wrathall will be a contributing editor.

Leyla Aliyeva (above) is a daughter of the Azerbaijan's president, Ilham Aliyev, and the magazine’s editor-in-chief.

Images from Baku mag, Nov/Dec, 2011 (slightly edited from my part:)

Fashion Inspiration: LADY IRIS APFEL

2011-11-23T11:06:00.009+03:00

Recently, I was leafing through (can you imagine?) my first and only one I've ever ~~bought~~ owned, a year old Harper's Bazaar (sincerely, even this single issue was gifted to me;), grieving for so many pages (416! if to be precise) of fine glossy paper wasted on nothing, when suddenly, I came across an article about this great woman, Iris Apfel - a Rare Bird of Fashion, as she's commonly referred to, an interior designer and decorator, and a startling American fashion icon!
It was a couple more times that I had stumbled upon her photographs, but this time I knew, a post is going to happen..!

"Style is integral. It's something that's you."

Huge round glasses are regarded as her distinctive trendmark! Lady Iris has been gathering her richest wardrobe all her life and some time ago, a part of it was exhibited at the Metropolitan Museum under the name of Selection from the Iris Barrel Apfel Collection.

Scanned from Harper's Bazaar

Scanned from Harper's Bazaar Below is the New York, Manhattan apartment of Iris Apfel and her lifetime husband Carl Apfel. {via Architectural Digest}

“I don’t care what people think…I learned a long time ago…I was 19 and had a very traumatic experience….and I learned that I have to go to bed with myself at night and that I have to please myself…and as long as I don’t go out of my way to offend anybody that I love, upset my mother or my husband…I’ll do my own thing. And if the public doesn’t like it, it’s their problem, not mine.”
via here MAC has created a series of cosmetics inspired by Iris Apfel's style. Read more about the collection here

Iris Apfel's Plastic 80s Charm Necklace, Vogue Nippon
via here

“I think dressing up or down should be a creative experience. Exciting. Fun. Whenever possible, it’s really great to start with a marvelously cut designer piece and build on it. For me the key to personal style lies in accessories. My friends tell me that my oversized glasses and my pairs of bracelets have become my unwritten signature. I have amassed an enormous “collection” of bags, belts, bangles and beads without which I would be lost. One can change the entire look of an outfit by substituting one accessory for another. I love objects from different worlds, different eras, combined my way. Never uptight, achieving – hopefully – a kind of throwaway chic.”

"I love accessories. For me, they are the most important part of my wardrobe."image via here And, finally, a Vogue Italia (Sep, 2010) photoshoot inspired by Iris Apfel!

“(My look is) either very baroque or very Zen - everything in between makes me itch.”

“I’m a hopeless romantic. I buy things because I fall in love with them. I never buy anything just because it’s valuable. My husband used to say I look at a piece of fabric and listen to the threads. It tells me a story. It sings me a song. I have to get a physical reaction when I buy something. A coup de foudre – a bolt of lightning. It’s fun to get knocked out that way!”

“My so-called “collection” is my wardrobe. It’s a series of pieces I’ve accumulated over these many years. I love a timeless look, and I think if you develop your own style it’s not a problem – at least it hasn’t been for me. I can mix something I bought last week with something I’ve hoarded for 30 years. I don’t follow trends or the hottest fashion. I buy what I like and my tastes are quite catholic – haute couture to street fashion. Pieces that are Zen-simple or madly baroque. I love ethnic as well as contemporary. I’m fond of serious and adore amusing. I try to make all these things work together.”

Magazine: Vogue Italia
Issue: September 2010
Editorial: Be Inspired by Iris Apfel
Model: Tanya Dziahileva
Photographer: Greg Lotus
“Be daring, be different, be impractical, be anything that will assert integrity of purpose and imaginative vision against the play-it-safers, the creatures of the commonplace, the slaves of the ordinary.” Cecil Beaton

ORIGINS: Ready To Wear Fairytale - 2 -- EXCLUSIVE EID COLLECTION, 2011

2011-11-19T18:03:00.000+03:00

ORIGINS: Ready To Wear Fairytale -1

2011-11-19T18:01:00.000+03:00

My latest fashion crush is on clothing by ORIGINS -- a Ready to Wear Lifestyle Fashion House in Pakistan launched in 2010 by a TV star Nadia Jamil and her husband Mr. Ali Pervaiz. They are offering a great variety of FABULOUS ready-to-wear dresses for women.

Here is their S/S 2011 collection: intricate embroideries, colourful, complicated patterns, fine cut outs and rich combination of textures!! Want them all..! ;)

"...The best thing about ORIGINS is that they are especially made keeping in mind the middle class, which makes them affordable and fashionable both. A heritage defined by centuries of impeccable threadmanship in sub-continental fashion, and as a salutation to everything beautiful in life, yesterday, today & tomorrow!"

Architectural Wonders: Condominium at Bishan Central, Singapore

2011-11-15T21:55:00.001+03:00

I always like to consider myself a village girl, but if it were about living in a luxurious building, such as this one, I could take my words back and happily turn into a city lady... with an additional village residence still!;)

Safdie Architects unveiled recently their giant project - ‘Condominium at Bishan Central’, -- a 38-story residential complex in the Bishan district of Singapore, comprising approximately 500 apartments. A special appeal includes individual penthouse-like roof terraces and public gardens for more than one-third of the individual residences - a dream option for city villagers!

The structure specially provides air movement to individual units while the upper balconies provide ventilation. The cluttered blocks of vertical space helps blend in the connections with nature with personal access to outdoor gardens.

{...Instead of independent towers, the condominium's two towers are linked by three bridging "sky gardens"...} Mr Safdie says: “While providing an unprecedented quality of life, mitigating a sense of density and concentration and maximising contact with nature, the complex also results in a village-like clustering of residential units, echoing hillside developments and the integration of architecture and plant life into a singular experience.”

Design and development works are in progress and the condominium is targeted to be launched for sale in the first half of 2012.

Would you like to reside there? And how do you like a breathtaking ability of swimming in a pool located high in the sky?

Based on materials at propgoluxury and e-architect

Fashion Inspiration: GLACIAL GLAMOUR

2011-11-13T11:34:00.000+03:00

Since I am somewhat puzzled as to what style to refer the looks below to, I think, it wouldn't be wrong to call it eclectic :). Here you'll find just a bit of everything - Gothic, flamenco, ethnic, cowboy and even some evening luxury... Enjoy!

Hyoni Kang for Flare magazine, December, 2011

RUSTIC MEXICO

2011-11-12T22:24:00.000+03:00

Some colourful homes in Mexico photographed by Seth Thompson.

Pink Kitchen, Pedro Pablo Corpus Home, Alamitos

Resting Man, Dominga Reyna Home, Alamitos

Gorditas, Vicente Navarro Puente Kitchen, Alamitos

Ernestina Martinez Romo Kitchen, Alamitos

Cave Kitchen, La Leona

Pedro Pablo Corpus Guesthouse, Alamitos

Vicente Navarro Puente Home, Alamitos

Pedro Pablo Corpus Guesthouse

Magenta Room, Tomasa Navarro Puente Home

You might like to see my post of Greece's Inner World - the similar kind of interiors, photographed by Stratis Vogiatzis.

Khaleeji Cuisine: Marag Fasoolya {Stewed Green Beans}

2011-11-12T20:52:00.000+03:00

This is another my favorite recipe featured in Cardamom and Lime (the awesome book I've told about in my previous post), which I am preparing often. Marag Fasoolya, juicy and rich in taste, is very popular throughout the Gulf and Middle East in general.

Serves 4

Ingredients:

250 g green beans
2 tbsp olive oil
2 small onions, finely sliced
1 large garlic clove, chopped
5 mm piece root ginger, finely chopped
1/2 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp curry powder
4 tomatoes, skinned and roughly chopped
1 tbsp tomato puree
1 bunch coriander, roughly chopped
salt to taste

Method of cooking:

Wash and trim the beans.
Heat the oil in a large saucepan and fry the onion slices until soft and transparent.
Add the garlic and ginger, and cook for about 1 minute.
Stir in the turmeric and curry powder.
Add the tomatoes and stir for a few minutes, over a low heat, until the tomatoes start to liquidize.
Add 200 ml boiling water then throw in the beans and cook until tender.
Add the tomato puree and salt to taste.
Garnish with chopped coriander and serve warm with rice or bread.

Khaleeji Cuisine: 'AFOOSA ~ Date Fudge Dessert

2011-11-11T16:44:00.005+03:00

As I have mentioned a short time ago, I had to temporally stop blogging about my kitchen adventures due to the lack of camera. But, today I've stumbled upon some photos I took last year, illustrating a couple of not yet shared recipes.

And now, I want to start with my most favorite dessert ever, called 'Afoosa - a super delicious date delicacy, sweet and syrupy, always filling me up with a deep sense of home and conciliation! Believe me, the very process of making it works therapeutically! As you stir while toasting flour (without oil!) and inhale the intense, warm woody fumes rising from a pan, a continuous embrace of inner piece seems overwhelming!

Ingredients:

250 g dates
150 g plain flour
165 ml vegetable oil

Method of cooking:

Mash the dates (be sure no stones are left) with a fork until soft.
Very important step:- toast the flour in a large saucepan over a medium heat, thus it will toast more evenly). Stir regularly until you see the flour is golden brown and smells woody. This can take you up to 15 minutes.
Pour in the oil and stir well until you have a brown paste.
Add the dates and combine well. Keep over the heat for a few more minutes, until the mixture is perfectly fused and the bottom of the pot is clean.
Remove from the heat and spread out on to a plate.

I love my 'afoosa hot, right from the fire (the best way to serve it), but it remains tasty even when chilled! You may reheat it with a little quantity of oil, if needed! Sometimes, depending on the quantity of oil I use, 'afoosa may come out to be dry and have a sand-like texture, but, I think, it's the rarest kind of dishes that you can hardly spoil - it tastes heavenly whatever way you cook it!

Image via here

I took the recipe from a Kuwaiti author, Sarah Al-Hamad's [above] fascinating cookbook “Cardamom and Lime”. The book (a jacketed hardcover) is intimately written and contains plenty of delicious recipes from a traditional Gulf cuisine, accompanied by interesting notes on Gulf's daily life and eating habits.

It is full of fine photography taken by the author, picturing recipes and scenes seen in the food markets and street shops of the Gulf. Very recommended!

Try using this Barnes and Noble coupon for this beautiful book.

Some more loves: ABIGAIL AHERN

2011-11-08T14:47:00.001+03:00

Here's a little continuation of my previous post, as I couldn't finish it just like that :)

The first three images are featured in Abigail Ahern's book "A girl's guide to decorating".

I love the plentiful use of bordeaux and browns, heavy textiles with floral prints, delicate lace and wooden pieces - the refined vintage atmosphere that feels cheerful and very homey!

The mirror on the wall (the very first pic in upper left hand corner) contributes to a beautiful play of lights!

Kilims and flowers - can't take my eyes off these sensual arrangements!

By the way, do you see some fake flowers between the natural ones? A work of Abigail Ahern!

Images via here and here

Interior Design Inspiration: ABIGAIL AHERN

2011-11-07T15:16:00.003+03:00

Happy Monday Hello, my friends, and a hearty welcome to my new followers! Now, to kick-start a new week with good, creative vibes, be prepared for a huge dose of interior design inspiration from Abigail Ahern, a world-wide known interior designer from London, whose style can be defined as totally eclectic, where, in one space, baroque elements and modern pieces are organically tied together, peppered with a dash of humor.

{e·clec·tic}

1. (Fine Arts & Visual Arts / Art Terms) (in art, philosophy, etc.) selecting what seems best from various styles, doctrines, ideas, methods, etc.

2. composed of elements drawn from a variety of sources, styles, etc.

Below is the Abigail Ahern's London apartment manifesting her love for books, dogs and flowers! (via the selby)

All images below are chosen from Abigail Ahern's personal blog to show her current likes and preferences in design styles, which I also find attractive!

Interior by Abigail Ahern

Fashion Inspiration: I AM NOT GOING HOME...

2011-11-04T13:00:00.000+03:00

Looking at this photo session I am getting convinced, once again, that it's not what you wear that matters, but how you do it! ;) At a closer look, you would notice this 'stylishly homeless' woman (starring Sera Park) is wearing nothing else but Prada and some other, unknown, but obviously expensive, brands!

Sera Park for Singles Korea Editorial, March, 2011

Photographer: Kim Je Won

PAKISTANI LADIES DESIGNER PARTY WEAR

2011-11-02T20:46:00.000+03:00

Absolutely ♥ these gorgeous outfits (having been on my hard drive since last January(!) Sorry, I can't tell who is the designer of all these stunning creations (I've been gathering the pics, piece by piece, all around the net), but they are all, obviously, from the same fashion show. If any of you could identify the brand, in any way, please drop me a line :)

Travel Inspiration: OLD ISTANBUL

2011-10-31T22:56:00.012+03:00

I've been always fascinated by ancient Istanbul houses and if I ever had a chance to live in Istanbul, I would definitely decide for a residence in any of such oldest Istanbul districts!

I wish I could have made these beautiful photos, but, alas... I am, temporally, a camera-less blogger (that's why, for example, you might have noticed, no new recipes here for a long time:(). Meanwhile, please, enjoy this amazing Istanbul's mosaic I have gathered up via different internet sources!

Better yet, use this Orbitz promotional code for possible savings, and be there in person!

via octopuses garden on tumblr

via here

Postcard (1973) via here Old style houses of Balat district via here

via here

via here
Çengelköy/İstanbul via here

via here

via turkça on tumblr

via here
via here

via here

via here

I've also stumbled upon a book that promises to be something exceptional:

“Istanbul: City of a Hundred Names”

Photography by Alex Webb and an essay written by a Nobel Prize Turkish novelist Orhan Pamuk (one of my MOST favourite writers).

The hardbound book measures 12 x 10 inches and has 136 pages with 77 four-color plates. Price: 120$. via topchoicebooks

And this video features wonderful works by Alex Webb capturing Istanbul's daily life, accompanied by some relevant information about Turkey.

P.S. Also, I am taking the opportunity to say that I pray for the areas of Turkey that have recently suffered from an earthquake and their soonest possible relief and recovery. Aamen♥

NOON by NOOR: Spring/Summer 2012+resort

2011-10-27T11:44:00.000+03:00

I've just thought, why should my blog not to start to deserve its name (at least, from time to time:) and thus, here I am, posting something gypsy-like and namely, a lovely fashion collection from a Bahraini brand Noon by Noor: elegant, very feminine and wildly romantic!

I like also their Resort 2012 collection - interesting cuts, flowing drapes and lot's of minty&pink pastels!
discovered via Burrs&Berries

GRANTA MAGAZINE 112 ~ PAKISTAN

2011-10-26T16:34:00.000+03:00

While I was preparing my previous post on Pakistani truck art, I got to know about Granta magazine which has a really long history of existence as it was founded in 1889(!) by students of Cambridge.

As the Observer wrote of Granta: ‘In its blend of memoirs and photojournalism, and in its championing of contemporary realist fiction, Granta has its face pressed firmly against the window, determined to witness the world.’

The reason for this post is that issue 112 of Granta, published in Autumn 2010, is dedicated to Pakistan and below you can see a beautiful cover of the edition!

The cover was specially created by a truck and bus artist from Bhutta village in Karachi Islam Gull (below).

{...In addition to trucks and buses, Gull decorates buildings and housewares and has worked for several consulates in Karachi, as well as travelling to Kandahar, Afghanistan to paint trucks there.

...Commissioned with the assistance of the British Council in Karachi, Gull produced two chipboard panels to be photographed for the magazine’s cover, using the same industrial paints with which he embellishes Pakistani trucks...}

image via here

This issue is available for purchasing right from their website, but they are also offering some on-line reads extracted from the magazine.

PAKISTANI TRUCK ART

2011-10-20T23:22:00.003+03:00

I don't know if there exists any official list of man made world wonders, but if I built it from scratch, the first position should have definitely gone to the traditional truck art of Pakistan! Grandiose beauty of so skillfully painted and richly decorated heavy trucks is simply breathtaking, and needless to say that every such vehicle is absolutely unique, literally, one of its kind!

I couldn't hold myself from bringing here some accompanying texts from here (you may then visit the link to read the whole article and see some more photos).

{...The freight trucks which are built by Ford, General Motors, Hino Pak etc in beautiful aerodynamic shapes are first retro-fitted with very Pakistani style bodies and a special ‘viewing deck’ at the top of Driver’s cab. The viewing deck is a very multipurpose extra space. It is used by ‘cleaners’ to sleep at night and also to load extra luggage when needed...}

{...The whole truck bodies are immaculately painted in brightly colored patterns by the street artists who can be found at Truck stands all across the country...}

{...It is said that every city’s artists have perfected their art in their own signature way. Thus, trucks decorated in Quetta (Balochistan) and Peshawar (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa) get lots of wood trimming where as those in Rawalpindi get lots of plastic decoration. Karachi excels in using reflective tapes, also called ‘chamak patty’ in local language. Camel bone decoration is used by artists of rural Sindh...}

{...In Karachi alone… more than 50,000 people toil in small, family-run workshops comprised of apprentices and highly trained artisans, each with his well-defined specialty. Dominated by the painstaking ethic of proudly independent craftsmen, this time-consuming manufacture is the opposite of mass production: Every hand-painted truck, bus and rickshaw, despite sharing numerous signs and symbols, virtually screams its uniqueness...}

{..The extraordinary tradition of decorating trucks has its roots in the days of the raj when craftsmen made glorious horse drawn carriages for the gentry. In the 1920s the Kohistan Bus Company asked the master craftsman Ustad Elahi Bakhsh to decorate their buses to attract passengers. Bakhsh employed a company of artists from the Punjab town of Chiniot, whose ancestors had worked on many great palaces and temples dating back to the Mughal Empire...}

{..Pakistani trucks are also used as means of displaying the owner or the Painter’s Poetic taste. It also serves as a calligraphic board as well as a notice board for public messages...}
{..It was not long before the truck owners followed suit with their own design. Through the years the materials used have developed from wood and paint to metal, tinsel, plastic and reflective tape. Within the last few years trucks and buses have been further embellished with full lighting systems...}

The article has a reference on an astonishing book (see below), called Food Path- Cuisine Along The Grand Trunk Road From Kabul To Kolkata published by Roli Books India and Lustre Press:

Size: 8.2" X 12.2"

Pages: 141(Coloured Illus: 115 & One Map)

Jamal Elias breaks down the motifs for truck art into the following 5 categories:

Idealized elements of personal and communal life.
Elements of political and national life.
Talismans, trinkets, and clothing.
Talismans or religious symbols.
Obvious religious symbols and images.

Images via google search and from here

Fashion Inspiration: ETHNIC WINTER

2011-10-18T11:55:00.000+03:00

Sera Park for Marie Claire Korea, January, 2011

COUNTRY LIVING

2011-10-16T23:08:00.003+03:00

While I was browsing in the net recently, I happened to collect these images below which are quite different, but may be unified together under the category of rural or country living.

via thecountrylivinghome

A designer Wendy Valliere’s 1842 farmhouse in Stowe, Vermont.via here

From the book Italian Country living by Caroline Clifton-Mogg via here

Charles Edwards’ country house via here

SURF "Shadows" TWILIGHT SENSATIONS

2011-10-16T11:05:00.000+03:00

This beautiful and very creatively made TV commercial was done by BBH London advertising agency for the brand Surf (laundry detergent products). Released in 2009, and shot entirely in camera, using theatrical shadow puppetry.

Illustrator: Kam Tang
Creative Director: Marc Hatfield

Creative Team: Kimberley Gill and Mareka Carter

Typography: Alison Carmichael

Music: Squeak E Clean, Los Angeles

IN BLOOM

2011-10-15T19:56:00.000+03:00

I love this joyous photosession and dedicate this feast of colours to those who still don't want to let summer off and dream of bathing in the sunlit flower fields in a whimsical, flowing apparels!

Model: Lisanne de Jong for Dazed&Confused, July, 2011

SUZANI LOVE

2011-10-13T23:43:00.001+03:00

...some interesting images of suzani featuring interiors:

Library. Anne Hepfer Designs

From the Mary McDonald's new book The Allure of Style via here

via here

Elle Decoration Nov., 2009 via here

ROQAYA AL THANI's BEDOUIN TALES

2011-10-06T22:09:00.001+03:00

I adore these stunning creations by a Qatari fashion designer Roqaya Al Thani who offers ready-to-wear apparels which are an exquisite fusion of traditional Arabic clothing with some little touch of modern fashion tendencies! ...I want to dress like this everyday!

AMINA AL JASSIM

2011-10-05T17:23:00.002+03:00

"...Take a nap in imagination, simply explore your attitude, refine your character,

dive into the mystery of tradition drawn in the realms of colours..."

...and, please, enjoy these fantastic collections by a Saudi haute couture and jelabiya designer Amina Al Jassim! Should I mention I would highly welcome each and every piece from what is shown below into my wardrobe..? ;)

All images via google search (...hard work, believe me:))

AUTUMN PRINTS

2011-10-04T15:11:00.001+03:00

Model: Elsa Hosk for Flare Magazine, September, 2011
Photographer: Chris Nicholls

Medusae Pendant Lamps

2011-10-02T10:32:00.001+03:00

These pretty lamps are made of milky white, translucent mylar for a soft, soothing light
perfect in a lounge or dining area in an underwater style!

Designer Roxy Towry-Russel from Pasadena, CA.

Polyp lamp, 400$

Ophelia lamp, 300$

Medusa lamp, 350$

Hydra lamp, 400$

On sale here

REMEMBERING MUKESH...

2011-09-27T16:35:00.002+03:00

One of my most favorite modern actors, Neil Nitin Mukesh doing a wonderful photosession as a tribute to his grandfather, the Legendary singer Mukesh!

I think, without at least a couple of mind-blowing songs performed by Mukesh jee, this post would remain incomplete. So, the first one is from the movie Gunahon Ka Devta (1967)

...and this is one of my all time favourites!!

Movie : Dharmatma (1975)
Singer : Mukesh and Kanchan
Cast : Hema Malini and Feroz Khan

Fashion Inspiration: ELEGANT AUTUMN

2011-09-24T15:07:00.000+03:00

Autumn Elegance with a twist of humor - Barbara Palvin for Dansk magazine, Fall\Winter, 2011