CHANEL ICONIC 11.12 BAG MEETS THE GREAT CINEMA.

A film directed by Inez and Vinoodh, featuring Penélope Cruz and Brad Pitt introduced the Chanel F/W 2024-2025 Ready-to-wear show. A tribute to the film "A Man and a Woman" by French director Claude Lelouch, and released in France in 1966 before its international distribution and recognition. It captures the beginning of a love story in Deauville, a place dear to the House and is the inspiration behind the collection imagined by Virginie Viard, the artistic director of the fashion collections. 

Back to 1966, since the original film budget was so low, the director had to shoot the film in just three weeks; to save money, he shot the interior scenes in black and white and the exterior scenes in colour. The actress Ainouk Aimée wore her own clothes and personal accessories, including a Chanel bag, her favourite one, which she wore on and off screen, from morning to night.

With this campaign, Chanel continues to build on its longstanding relationship with cinema. Virginie Viard has always been passionate about cinema, particularly the New Wave, and wanted to pay tribute to Claude Lelouch's masterpiece. A work that smoulders with refined romance, with that legendary beach scene..., the horizon as far as the eye can see... the eternal sea..., and of course, Deauville. The seaside resort where M.lle Chanel  opened a hat boutique bearing her name in 1912, and where she presented her first Haute Couture creations in 1913, certainly not a coincidence, but if it actually exists, it is marvellous in terms of finesse. The campaign video directed by Inez & Vinhoodh repeats some of the film's original sequences with Penélope Cruz and Brad Pitt and instantly identifiable with its modern and rectangular silhouette, the iconic Chanel bag and its impeccable allure, which lasts a lifetime, to then be handed down from generation to generation. 

Collection after collection, it appears in countless variations of colour, shape and material. Over the years and the collections, countless designs have paid tribute to the famous bag, reinforcing its status as a unique iconic object.

JANUARY HOME-DECORATION: HOW TO LIVEN UP YOUR HOUSE AFTER CHRISTMAS.

Taking the tree down and un-decorating the house can feel like a big letdown. In fact, I know some people who leave their tree up right through February, because it seems like such a sad event to take it down. Even if you, like me are not prone to such extreme solutions, you may feel that your home needs a few enlivening touches, throughout January, so here’s a few tips on how to decorate after Christmas to get you through winter’s darkest days.

4 Strategies for Mid-Winter Decorations

1) Turn on the lights. One of the things that we like abut Christmas is the twinkle lights on porches, trees and, well, everywhere. Bring out candles both in every room and outdoor, and actually light them up. If you have pets or kids, the battery-powered candles are a really respectable stand-in. Tiny LED party lights and fairy lights are also very trendy right now; they look very farmhouse-chic in a hurricane vase or mason jar. Other options can be mercurised candle holders/hurricane lamps for a chic, vintage style, or miniature lighted houses, for fairy vibes.

2) Go white and green. These neutral Christmassy colours will carry you through the next mid-Winter weeks, and you can get some extra mileage out of season rustic florals such as hellebores, bulbs, pine wreaths.

3) Carnival theme. Get inspiration from the Carnival theme, with figurines display and table arrangements with brightly-coloured flower centrepieces. Mix it all up. 

4) Refresh the rooms. A complete room re-design says fresh! By using your furniture and objects in a whole new arrangement, You can have an entirely new look with a one-day room re-design. Now, it is also a great time to paint. If your walls have a brown undertone, or a muted feel, mid-winter is when you see it the most. Why not pick a lighter, brighter color and enjoy it right now? Decorate your home after Christmas, and get a jump on your New Year organizing projects. With the new zero-VOC paints, there’s no reason you can’t paint in the middle of Winter. How exciting! And if you are not ready to such dramatic changes, opt for a renewal on a smaller scale, by changing the colours to complements, furniture, or perhaps, adding a glimmering crystal chandelier.

Starting this week with a clean house and a clean slate will make you forget that yesterday you thought it would be sad to see Christmas go, and it will actually feel good! Now, do you have another way to perk up your home's winter look? Please do tell!

SUMMER COOL FIND: "SOFT-LIKE-A-CLOUD" RUFFLE SHEER TOP.

We’re in the thick of sale shopping season and internationally known online retailers have released some of the biggest price drops of the year so far. These retailer don’t drop sales very often, but when they do, they're worth heading to immediately, because there are so many great finds sitting in them. Right now, pieces are marked down up the 50% off and I did the digging to find the very best designer fashion finds worth adding to my cart. And I succeeded. From the buzzy swimwear that you’ll find in the suitcases of fashion insiders to dresses that are perfect if you’re on the hunt for a wedding guest look to the cool shoes that are about to sell out, there's a lovely piece I added to my wardrobe and want to share: a cool, feminine sheer silk-chiffon top by the Australian designer Christopher Esber, a very versatile piece which will be perfect to pair to white pants, even in the late Summer evening ahead. I’ve been appreciating Australian designers for some years, and in spite of their high prices, I sometimes like to seize the opportunity of a discounted purchase of their products, when I see it. And this was the case of my recent purchase, a stunning, delicately sheer ruffle silk tie-shirt with relaxed sleeves and delicate ties in chalky lilac, one of this season's hottest shades, which makes you feel as if you were wearing a soft cloud.

SUSTAINABLE-FASHION TREND: GET READY FOR THE BEACH WITH THESE GORGEOUS BASKET BAGS.

Ah, the sunny shores. Sand, waves, and unbelievably cute beach outfits, what's not to love? Spending a day by the sea is priceless, and having the right accessories is an additional pleasure. After all, it's easy to underestimate just how many essentials are needed for a sandy excursion. You have towels, sunscreen, snacks and books (the list goes on...) that all have to come along for the ride. And while you could just toss everything in a random tote you usually use to carry groceries, we suggest treating yourself to some of the best beach bags, either from luxury brands or from less known fair-trade labels.

Snagging one of those gorgeous totes and purses perfect for the beach or pool, but also for dinner and shopping will easily level up our Spring and Summer accessories game. There are options that'll fit everything we could possibly need, along with some picks that have just enough room for your wallet and phone. And what's most important, they're all made with natural materials and represent perfectly the sustainable fashion trend.

No matter where we're going or how much we want to pack there's something luxe for us, and these are the top picks for 4 of the best designer's straw beach bags in 2022:

1) Jacquemus Le Panier Soleil: its classic straw hue keeps it neutral enough to wear with anything, and the yellow/orange/pink leather details spice things up a bit. This one even has a shoulder strap for carrying.

Jacquemus Le Panier Soleil

2) Loewe small leather trimmed woven raffia tote: a very chic timeless piece which is perfectly sized to hold all daily essentials. This piece is trimmed with tan leather and embossed with the label's iconic motif, as a nod to this season's logo obsession.

Loewe small leather trimmed woven raffia tote

3) Christian Dior woven bag: a classic 30's French style basket with monogram cotton interior and external cotton labelling.

Christian Dior basket bag

4)Valentino straw & leather basket: a classic model in straw with leather details and golden V logo.

Straw and leather basket by Valentino

And for those like me who like craftsmanship accessories which are from less conventional labels, a selection of 4 models of less known brand products.

5) Personalised French-market basket bag: a lovely and versatile version of a French classic accessory, with the owner's first name initial, to be found at craft street markets.

Personalised French-market basket bag

6) Colombian Iraca palm straw bags by Apaya, Nannacay or Equal Hands: these brands are founded on the principals of sustainable fashion made with natural materials with no artificial chemicals involved and traditional handcrafted by local artisans. So these bags are luxury and beautifully unique pieces to be used and collected at the same time.

Iraca-palm straw bag by Apaya

Straw bag with pompons by Nannacay

Iraca-palm straw bag by Equal Hands

10 CUTE & WEARABLE OUTFITS THAT SPARK JOY, THIS SPRING.

For you who are fashion girls through and through, getting dressed in the morning is certainly one of your favorite parts of the day. And there are fewer times that you love getting dressed more than in Spring. The weather is finally getting a little nicer, the sun is out for a little longer, and you can rid yourself of the all-black attire that you wore almost every day between the months of September and March. But, because it's been a little while since we've had the opportunity to really get dressed in the spring, I've rounded up a few cute spring outfits to get your creative gears going. I've included looks that just about anyone can pull inspiration from, but because Spring weather isn't quite as hot as summer, I'm obligated to include a few looks that will keep you warm, too, and here's to never having to wear a puffer jacket ever again. 

Keep scrolling to check out all of the sartorial goodness. So, Enjoy creating your own looks! 

1) Jeans + blazer: You can't beat the classics. A black or blue blazer always looks good styled over a white t-shirt and a pair of true-blue jeans. I don't make the rules, but this look is one of my favourite of all times!

2) Breezy dress + loafers: Loafers have been replacing our pandemic-years' sneakers, and if you want to try new, edgy combinations, you can choose a glittery or metallic option to add something extra to your usual ensemble.

3) Colourful cropped cardigan + jeans: Go ahead, mix all the colours into one outfit. As evidenced on the streets of Paris, a mix of colors actually looks totally casual despite being very much out of the box.

4) Sheer skirt + matching pull: sheer skirt works for the day time if you keep the rest of your accessories simple. A matching pull is key to making the date-night worthy piece feel appropriate in the sunlight. 

5) Pastel suit + short vest: if you want to make vests work in your wardrobe, style them with pastel menswear-inspired suit. The resulting outfit is cool and feminine at the same time. 

6) Sweat suit + trench:  If you're running around and still want to look cute, style a matching sweat suit with other elevated staples like a trench coat. Choosing one in a fun color gives this outfit springtime appeal.
 

7) Party-ready top + jeans: Forget your sweaters: a glittery long-sleeved top is a cool way to keep warm in the springtime! Get in, we're going out! For your next happy hour with your best friends take your jeans-and-a-nice-top ensemble to the next level courtesy of a blinged-out crop top. 

8) Knit dress + ankle boots: Even if you're a sandals-wearer in Summer, when the weather is not yet very warm, ankle booties will always reign supreme in your closet. Pairing a chunky pair of boots with a sleek ribbed dress always looks cool, in my opinion. 

9) Pastel silk top + white denim: I may sound quite obvious to break it to you, but you should probably pick up a pair of white jeans this season. They're a timeless addition into your wardrobe especially in case of a slim-fit model, while opting for a pair that has a wider leg gives them a cool-girl look. Pair them with a pastel lightweight top to channel ultimate L.A girl energy. Of course, feathers are optional, but very, very fun. 

10) Floral mini-dress: the floral mini-dress has been chosen by many fashion girls as a passepartout for several seasons, since it can be worn for the whole season, with either a pair of sneakers, or ankle boots or even sandals during the hottest months.

HEIRLOOM FINDING: BIEDERMEIER ARMCHAIRS.

I have always loved the idea of storytelling through one’s home and sharing what homes mean to their owners, since homes can carry so many significant memories and special moments with loved ones. So, I find it very rewarding to use my antique items with a meaning and bring new life to things that are important to me. These antique pieces are more than just a part of history, they are part of one’s family history. Families that have held on to stuff for more than a couple of generations or more are likely to have some valuable family heirlooms and antiques in the mix. And finding a piece of antique furniture like an old chest, dresser, rocking chair, desk, or sofa can be exciting. Moreover, two or three well placed antiques can really elevate a space and give it soul, even if the space has a modern design, like an office for example.  

Of course, when accessorising with antiques it is important to keep an open mind and observe how these pieces blend with the rest of the space and not to find oneself at a loss either for the choice of the most suitable place to place them, or the restoration steps to follow, if they are not in good shape.

Recently, I decided to restore two Biedermeier armchairs to their original beauty, when I rediscovered them in the basement, as pieces of fine antique craftsmanship that have been kept in my family for two generations, and I realised that I liked their elegant structure, from the finely carved front legs, to the linear back legs and armrests as well as the upholstered seat and back. So, I considered having them restored and refinished to put them to use and add elegance to my sitting room. 

I chose reliable upholsterers, Bonzi Tappezzeria, a small team of master craftsmen, who were able to restore the original appearance of my antiques and make them a unique addition, helping me also with the

choice of a classic and sober damask fabric with a stripe motif in salmon pink and ivory, instead of the typical Biedermeier floral stripe, which I found too old-fashioned and not so well matching with the modern-classic ivory couch already present in the room.

My advice is certainly always the same: instead of donating or worse, throwing away an antique 

piece of furniture because it is not in great shape, consider having it restored so you can put it to use again. Refinishing antique furniture will give it new life and save it from becoming a victim of our throwaway culture.

Heirlooms represent family history, wealth, and treasured memories. They are more than objects, serving as symbols for stories that deserve to be recounted and preserved indefinitely, and their value is not necessarily monetary, but deeply emotional.

SELF-INDULGENCE AT HOME: MONOGRAMMED BEDLINEN.

Monogrammed bedding is an excellent way to add a little bit of elegance to the bed, definitely the ultimate in a well designed bedroom. Sheet sets, pillow cases, and shams can be personalised with any of our signature monograms. In this gloomy period of recurring crisis for the world outside, I find that the best way to try not to feel overwhelmed and depleted by the events is a little of self-indulgence, to feel spoilt in the comfort of your home.

Here is my small selection of both personal and heirloom monogrammed bedlinen.

- The Chain collection by Rivolta Carmignani, entirely manufactured in Italy,  has an essential, contemporary, yet classic design. From the historic archives of the company, the refined Chain motif, once selected for the suites of the most prestigious hotels in the world, has been now revised in new colours, Pearl grey and Capri blue embroidery on luxury, pure cotton sateen white bedlinens. I chose the second colour combination, perfect for a marine-inspired holiday house bedroom.

- Bespoke Egyptian Bedding cotton 600 threads bedlinen with either "ton-sur-ton" or contrasting monogram and lace trimming, made by a French expert embroiderer and perfect for our Provençal style guest room.

- Old-style, customised cotton percale bedlinen from my mother's trousseau, whose ivory shade feels soft yet fresh and gives a relaxed feeling to her bedroom, while the delicate yet ornate monograms and décor all around the edges add elegance to the ambience.

Of course, monogrammed sheet sets can be also a wonderful and personal wedding gift, but in this case of course, when making our choice, it is better to match the monogram style to the style of the bedroom to which it is destined, either classic or modern, since there are plenty of options in both versions, as you can see in the following pictures.