black bag crazy.

I don't know if this is a nonchalant fashion craze I'll grow out of or if black bags will be my weakness for life, but at this point it doesn't really matter; what matters is that I can no longer look to any other sartorial staple to complete an outfit. Be it a satchel, crossbody purse, clutch, carryall tote or backpack, black is back and it's the easiest and sharpest way to pull together any outfit. Above I've collaged some of my current faves (but there are loads more); basically anything predominantly black with a metallic embellishment that isn't too bling but is enough to add interest and detail. Usually such adornments come in the form of gold logos, which I generally don't permit unless it's Tory Burch, Marc Jacobs, Chanel, and in the case of bags and bags only, Michael Kors (please no obnoxious Juicy Couture crests or Gucci - eurgh). I've rambled enough about my ultra-perfect MBMJ Classic Q Karlie bag, but there are plenty of other gorgeous crossbody options such as Lulu Guinness and Proenza which are equally yum (I will never fall out of love with the PS11 and that's a promise for life). Fringe details, studs, geometric zips and quilted leather are perfectly executed on neutral black, which serves to spotlight tactile detail and texture. 

Are you equally in love with black bags? Which are your favorites?

think pink.

October is International Breast Cancer Awareness month, and you can do your part to support the fight simply by mixing a little pink into your life. Spritz on Juicy Couture's "Viva La Juicy" perfume for a refreshing, feminine burst, or slide into a pair of dusty pink skinny jeans on a chilly day. Neon patent Doc Martens help give any daytime outfit a healthy dose of color, and fuchsia pumps are a great way to girly-up a nighttime ensemble. Pale pink embellished chandelier earrings are an easy way to look a million bucks, and slip into a fitted blazer in the same vibrant hue for maximum results. A bad hair day, morning frizz or mere laziness can be concealed with a cute, magenta beanie from Helly Hansen, and you can never go wrong with a quilted bag - it doesn't even have to be from Chanel! And lastly, before you walk out the door each morning , do yourself a favor and break out your pink beauty products. Shimmery pink eyeshadow and light coral blush are my new go-to products; they're demure enough for work/school, and they do an excellent job of naturally enhancing facial features. Here's to us ladies everywhere!
~
"Dedicated to those who have lost the fight and to those who won't quit the fight."

au revoir, ritz paris.

Not everyone gets a 14-page spread in Vogue magazine as a farewell gift...

But the Ritz Paris does!

The latter half of every Vogue issue is what I like to refer to as the "meat" of the magazine. It's home to all the endless editorials and lengthy articles of the month; with none of those superfluously scientific health rambles or European villa reviews to interrupt the fantasmical flow of fashion that awaits once the halfway-mark of the magazine is passed. 

This April, a bittersweet reverie of infinite luxury and sumptuous style graced the pages of Vogue as some of the top names in the industry recalled decades' worth of fond (models napping in-between shows in Donatella Versace's suite - fake eyelashes still intact) and wild (intoxicated designers and models staggering around, post runway show, with flutes of champagne till the early hours) memories at the Ritz Paris. Soon to close it's doors for renovation, Vogue took hold of this last opportunity to celebrate the glamour and regal heritage of this celebrated hotel by shooting the ever-breathtaking Kate Moss in a series of haute couture and custom "made for Vogue" ensembles by the world's most esteemed designers. From candy-colored confections to sombre, stiff tableaux, the variety of photographs is almost as splendid as the majestic, gem-adorned interiors of the Ritz. 

As well as photographing Kate Moss in all her finery, the lens also shifted to the meticulous organization "behind the scenes" (which was no less glamorous!). Pictures of the doormen, chefs, waiters, bartenders, receptionists and hotel management punctuated the dramatic scenes, such as the one of Mrs. Moss perched vainly atop a curtained bed. This editorial was unique in the sense that it included more than just photographs- it told an intimate story close to the hearts of many, and celebrated a destination that was more than just somewhere to crash for a few nights. The Ritz Paris transcended the boundaries of just a hotel; it was the home of the most fabulous moments and memories that the fashion industry has to offer. 

 After all, what better way to say "au revoir," or rather, "à bientôt," than to publish an editorial in honour of this iconic fashionista's haven?