tis' the season.

photo via: flickr.com

a merry christmas to you all...

we walked off to look for america.

photo via: flickr.com

i'm off for a little getaway before the actual holidays.
may it be a nice week for you all.

we didn't give a damn.

available at, zimmermannwear.com

swimwear line, zimmermann has just launched their line of lingerie. the items may be pricey, but the 100% silk pieces are as equally stunning.

song of the week.

australia's youth group, "forever young" is a cover of, alphaville. i have preferred the version that 'youth group' has to offer ever since hearing it on an episode of, the oc. and now, i love it even more after discovering the "music video" which is really just footage from a 1975 skateboarding championship. i'm not sure what my fascination is with home movies and excellent music playing in the background, such as the last "song of the week" post. i just find it all so nostalgic, although none of the "home movies" pertain to me. the footage from the skateboarding championship is very, lords of dogtown...and that is just incredible.

flight of fantasy.

the december 08/january 09 issue of uk harper's bazaar features an ethereal editorial. the photos automatically exude beauty because of the natural setting that is the backdrop. the delicate pieces almost seem untouchable as they relish in the breeze that seems to keep them afloat. as of recent, it seems that i have become more fond of the uk edition of harper's bazaar rather than the us edition; the following is an obvious reason as to why.
















anne-marie van dijk, photography by: kayt jones

artistic icons.

stella mccartney and ed ruscha photo via: sundance channel.

"iconoclasts" is a genius original series that features creative innovators who meet and discuss their passions and love for the career in which they acquire. i'd always wanted to experience the series for myself, since i have heard great reviews, but it just seemed to slip my mind everytime a new pair of iconoclasts were featured. i was surprised and glad to hear that robert redford is an executive producer. recently, stella mccartney and ed ruscha were featured in the riveting show.

fashion designer, stella mccartney and artist, ed ruscha exchanged ideas of fashion and art and how the two meet at a certain point. many know stella mccartney as a visionary of fine clothing, while maintaining an organic and fur-free fashion line. not to mention that she's the off-spring of a famous beatle. although, i hadn't a clue of who ed ruscha was before watching iconoclasts, i was able to appreciate him as the creative pop artist he is. ruscha was apart of the pop art movement in the 1960's alongside andy warhol. ruscha's sarcastic sense of humor shows through most of his pieces.

throughout the hour-long episode i was most inspired by the possible collaboration both mccartney and ruscha had discussed. stella mccartney pitched an idea to ed ruscha for clothing she would designed that featured his own art. to see each in their own environment and explaining their own line of work is just as incredible as seeing them outside of their elements, learning the creative process of the other. after seeing the ideas and color keys that both mccartney and ruscha had in mind, there is no doubt that they could make a beautiful collaboration.

song of the week.

"beirut" may possibly be one of the last great talents of the past decade, in my opinion..of course. 'postcards from italy' is a truly exceptional song off of the album, gulag orkestar. the plucking of the ukelele and the voice of, beirut's 'zack condon' is absolute perfection. the feeling that director, 'almaharel' has raided a few different families of their home videos is the perfect balance of private, intimate moments. i can rave about this song until the sun rises and sets again, but just listening to the first thirty seconds anyone can realize just how i fell in love with this song.

autumn perspective.

photo via: myself

"winter is an etching, spring a watercolor, summer an oil painting, and autumn a mosaic of them all." -stanley horowitz

song of the week.

i first witnessed 'anathallo' when they opened for 'the format' in early 2006. never had i heard them before, but i was in complete awe during their entire set. their sound is enchanting and enthralling. i was most impressed by the arrangement of various instruments, almost if that alone was art on display. their stage presence will put any person into a trance, yet will allow them to interact as well. hanasakajiijii four(a great wind, more ash) is based on a japanese fairytale from their debut album, "floating world." and this month of this year seem to be an exciting time for anathallo as they have released their sophomore album, "canopy glow." also, on the 12th of this month, they will embark on their european/parts of asia tour.

and just a side note: former lead vocals, nate ruess of 'the format' and andrew dost formerly with anathallo have formed their own project, "fun." 'fun' will tour north america with jack's mannequin starting this month.

song of the week.

i would probably list, the format as one of my favorite musicians. their music video, 'she doesn't get it' seems innocent because of the replacement of adults with children. it does seem to mask the actuality of the song about an "almost one-night stand" according to the format's lead singer, nate. i'm still crossing my fingers for the reunion of the format after their decision to take different paths. although nate has started his new project "fun," i will never forget both of the experiences i had when i saw 'the format,' live.

a spoonful of....

via: sarabeth.com

i've been a bit under the weather for the past two days. usually i would dismiss the thought of being ill, but i've needed this time to relax. i tend to run myself down, so this has been somewhat of a vacation. a vacation before my upcoming weekend getaway. so while on this little hiatus, i've been indulging in sarabeth's spreadable fruit. it's more delicious than any other jam or jelly that i've tasted. it's been the topping on english muffins and buttermilk biscuits; while i sip tea with a spoonful of honey. i first sampled the spreadable fruit when a family friend brought a case of different mixtures back from a trip to new york. it must be understood that it is ten dollars a jar, but it is quite decadent. i've had: mixed berry, blueberry cherry, and orange apricot. there are 14 different varieties, and i'm determined to try every single spreadable fruit that ms. sarabeth has concocted.

she'll bartend your parties.

before the month's end, i decided it would be the perfect time to show the editorial of kate moss in this month's vogue uk. not only is this an exquisite shoot because of the lovely ms. moss, but also because of the photos alone. the clouded blue and green wall is the first object to take stage followed by the beautiful clothing. there is a perfect balance of fur, hardware, and delicate pieces. kate moss' effortless beauty pulls it altogether like a beautiful bow atop the most precious gift.

kate moss, photography: mario testino

song of the week.

the infadels 'free things for poor people' video has a definite "o, brother where art thou" vibe to it (minus george clooney and that ridiculous accent of his). the song itself may be repetitive, but there is no doubt that it is catchy..in a calming sort of way.
i love the hint of sunlight in each shot. the last few seconds gives a blow to reality; the entire video features beautiful landscapes, but the mirage is interrupted by a smog infested city. it's very unexpected.

"it's a magpie nest."

i wouldn't mind calling alice temperley's notting hill loft my own. it's ruggedly chic, and with all of the glorious clutter i would be in my comfort zone. this nineteenth century barn has been converted into a living space which just so happens to sit above the designer's notting hill shop.








photos via: elle.com

song of the week.

mystery jet's, 'two doors down' is the epitome of an 80's style music video. everything from the clothing to the dance moves. just listening to their music anyone could imagine their songs topping the U.K charts in the mid-eighties. not to mention 'two doors down' as the ultimate childhood sweetheart song.

your name is heard in high places.

while perusing through venice's san marco plaza i came across the most charming cafe. caffe florian is known as venice's first cafe and has been around since 1720. just walking by the open doors one can imagine all of the talent that has graced the infamous place. anna sui has even named this luxurious spot as her "favorite place to have a drink." although i was not able to experience the tasteful decor this past summer, i plan on dropping in when i do visit venice once again. before then, i do plan on watching 'the talented mr. ripley' for caffe florian makes a cameo.


caffe florian photo credit:thebostonfoodie.blogspot.com

the one secret i did learn during my three week stay in italy, is that of coffee sans milk after breakfast hours. when first hearing this, i thought it was some type of tourist myth, but i quickly discovered it to be true. while dining out one night, i decided to have a, caffe latte (coffee with milk) with my dessert. as i ordered this i was shocked at the disgust of the waiter, although he did serve the caffe latte with a smile. for some reason, any coffee beverage with milk after 10 am is looked down upon in italian society. this must be the reason i have learned to drink coffee a la espresso, or just plain black.

a collaboration; naturally.

francis ford coppola, sofia coppola photography: annie leibovitz

it is no surprise that filmmaker sophia coppola is a muse for marc jacobs. as the creative director of louis vuitton, marc and sophia are set to collaborate on a collection of shoes and handbags. the collection will be launched in japan and will also be available worldwide. the launch of the collection is not yet known, but it is something that we'll all be awaiting for in anticipation.

song of the week.

sigur ros', "gobbledigook" can be described as light and carefree. even if you can't understand the hopelandish language that sigur ros' lead singer, jon thor birgisson sings; you can most likely appreciate the beautiful sound of their tunes.
nudity may be something that is shunned upon in our society, and i myself am not looking to join a nudist colony anytime soon, but the way it is portrayed in "gobbledigook" is innocent and carefree. this is a video that shows beautiful, open souls enjoying all that nature has to offer.

gradisco voi di piu e piu.

italian for, "i like you more and more."


tocca.com

for as long as i can remember i have wanted to own a fragrance from the oh-so-elegant, tocca. i have never actually seen a bottle in person, nor have i had the chance to try it out, but i have this feeling that it will be love at first sight..whenever that may be. tocca has been receiving some great press for their new "brigitte" fragrance; inspired by brigitte bardot, herself. but, as i scan tocca's website; "florence" seems to be the eau de parfum for me. it has a combination of italian bergamot and crushed violet petals. blue iris and notes of blondewood complete this "sophisticated and feminine" scent. the charming little bottle just gives the right touch to old world charm.

tell me the thoughts that surround you.

sofia coppola, photographed by: juergen teller
(marc jacobs fragance ad, circa 2002)

"she is young and sweet and beautiful." marc jacobs has said. "the epitome of this girl i fantasize of."

song of the week.

oppenheimer's, 'breakfast in nyc' from their self-titled album is so wonderful to listen to. i especially love the faint sound of the zylophone playing throughout the song. the video in a way could be a tribute to the hault of production of polaroid instant cameras. it's a bittersweet video.

innovative creation(s)

thisnext.com

these heels from chanel's '09 cruise collection must be inspired by anyone who has ever used the exaggerated "i would kill for those shoes" phrase.

style.com

this bright idea of a shoe comes from the '08 pre-fall collection. the sequined goat skin sandal has a lightbulb in the heel that can actually give off light. i much rather prefer the black and gold version. the lightbulb set in the gold heel is just beautiful. unfortunately, i could not find this version.

Neither of these pair of heels are practical, but they sure are fascinating to gaze at. They would make for wonderful displays. they could be a smart investment.

song of the week.

sebastien tellier's "divine" music video was something that was all over the television while i was on holiday, in italy. my sister and i could not help, but laugh at this hilariously brilliant video. it doesn't hurt that the tune is quite kitschy.

a muse for shoes.

people.com

just like the collaboration with robert lee morris for jewelry; mary-kate and ashley's 'elizabeth and james' are collaborating with steve madden for what else; shoes of course. the line is expected to debut at high end global retails mid-2009. mka seem to be hitting all the right targets when it comes to expanding their "more affordable" line.

"we are excited to partner with steve madden to create the new elizabeth and james footwear line. with their proven experience in all aspects of design, production and distribution, we intend to take the contemporary shoe market to a new level," mary-kate stated.

and a new level you will take it, ms. olsen.

let's be blunt, shall we?

alexa chung, british television presenter

"i don't set out to be particularly rude, i'm just not very good at being subtle. do i patronize certain bands? it's possible, yes, and i'm sure they don't always deserve it, the poor souls."

and this is just another example of alexa chung's raw, get-to-the-real-point attitude.

boy, look at her.

scott sternberg, designer for 'boy by band of outsiders' has chosen kirsten dunst as the face for his spring '09 lookbook. the line consists of loose, yet tailored pieces. unlike the polaroid shoot for fall '08 featuring michelle williams, the spring '09 lookbook has a simple white backdrop which i think displays the crisp and slouchy clothing just perfectly.

song of the week.

yes, i'm a bit late with the "song of the week" posting.i apologize. i have been running ragged for the past few days. blah.
cold war kids (as well as kings of leon, only by the night) had their new cd released yesterday. and of course, i had to purchase both cd's. i was merely impressed with both musical talents. their sounds may be different, but are impeccable. the video below is of the cold war kids single, "something is not right with me" from their sophomore album, loyalty to loyalty.

jet-setter.

globe-trotterltd.com

charlotte ronson is teaming up with uber chic travel god's, globe-trotter. together, they have designed a limited-edition suitcase for the fall. while globe-trotter will be sticking to their signature style; ronson will add a few stickers to the statement piece. the suitcase will have a i've-traveled-around-the-globe-and-back feel to it.

the darjeeling (un)limited.

I just watched, "the darjeeling limited." I am aware that the film has been out for over a year now, but i never got around to actually renting it let alone seeing it in theatres. i'm incredibly glad that i was finally able to free myself so i could enjoy it. the wes anderson film did not dissappoint. in fact, it kept me on the edge of my seat, contrary to what others might think.

the leads in the film are: adrien brody, jason schwartzman, and owen wilson whom all play brothers who are on a spiritual quest to reconnect after not speaking to one another after a year. This is all done while traveling through india. what may surprise people is the "first part" to the darjeeling limited. 'hotel chevalier' serves as a 13 minute prologue to the film featuring a love story between jason schwartzman and natalie portman. although natalie portman does not reappear in the "second part" of the film, she does make a lovely impact. I was completely enamored by the 'first part' of the film as i saw it as a charmingly, seductive piece. The 'second part' of the film does give a few laughs and surprises. it's definitely worth seeing.

song of the week.

"i just don't know what to do with myself" was made famous by dusty springfield. i also love the version that, the white stripes have put their own electric twist on the classic song. on this particular monday i chose the video of kate moss' tasteful performance featuring the white stripes.


directed by:sofia coppola

midnight snack.

sprinkles.com

for the past two days i have been craving cupcakes, but not just any cupcakes. sprinkles cupcakes has to be the most decadent of them all. oh, what i would do for the red velvet version, or lemon, or chocolate...or any other flavor for that matter (except coconut). although, i would prefer to have my glass filled with soy milk or ice cold water.

influential.

amazon.com

just minutes ago i pre ordered mary-kate and ashley olsen's coffee table book, influence. i have been beyond words of excitement for the release of this book since it was introduced to the public at the beginning of the year. this book includes interviews of people that inspired mk and ash to break into the fashion industry. there are also exclusive interviews and never-before-seen photographs of the mogul twins. because my obsession with the olsen twins (mainly mary-kate) is profound i am likely to wait by my front door for the next month or so to await whatever shipping service that delivers the special package.

song of the week.

this video is an eery masterpiece from, bats for lashes. when watching, "what's a girl to do" i can't help but think that the entire video was inspired by donnie darko. i first discovered the song and video in late spring, and for a long time after i could not figure out who sang the song until i rediscovered it a few days ago.




bats for lashes is signed with parlophone records. along with a few more favorites such as: coldplay, the verve, babyshambles, hot chip, lcd soundsystem, sigur ros, and the beatles.

new york fashion week.

new york fashion week has begun. in reality, fashion week began at 8am this past friday, sept. 5. to be in the middle of all of the chaos that new york has to offer during the next week would be heaven on earth. although, i have missed a few shows..within the next couple of hours is when the great names of fashion will debut their collections for spring of 2009. there are several websites that give the general public access to most of the runway shows. i will try my best to post my favorite collection(s) each day. for now, i will dream of the utter madness that will be flowing throughout the great city of new york.
fashion week (new york): sept.5-sept.12


alexander wang, spring 2009 show.

happy birthday.

happy birthday to me (two days late, of course) and to all of the other virgos.

this is one of my favourite scenes from one of my favourite movies. the following scene is from marie antoinette, showing the title character celebrating her 18th birthday. to me, the celebration would be the ultimate way to spend a birthday. watching the sunrise with a few close friends is just icing on the cake.

a (highschool) musical affair.

personally, i never understood all the hype with, zac efron and highschool musical. in fact, while i was nannying i once watched the entire second sequel. (to be honest, i don't know how anyone could get through it.) after receiving the september issue of elle, i was less than thrilled to know that three of the cast members were appearing in a shoot.

even if you aren't a highschool musical fan, you can not deny how great the photo shoot is. it's soft and romantic with an edge. i can't get enough of it.










elle, september 2008