Ellie Perfume

11.01.2012

The “IT” list

Every season, people ask what's on my shopping list and I have to break the news that I don't have one. I am usually inspired by the runway shows and fashion magazines and I keep a mental note of general "need" categories (e.g.,  knitwear, white shoes). On the other hand, I can easily give a list of my favorite collections. This season, it is Fendi, Gucci, Lanvin and Celine.  All four are trendsetters. You'll find clothes inspired by these designers at Zara, H&M and Topsop without a doubt.

At Fendi, it was all about the shoulder. Whether raised, puffed or furred, the shoulder is the focal point.  My favorite ensemble is the gray wool top with puffy shoulders and cropped trousers. Knitwear was shown with a variety of textures on one piece, such as fur, mohair, and mesh (see above). The look is luxurious and casual chic. We expect nothing more from Mr. Lagerfeld!

Lanvin had the most beautiful dresses. Bright colors, amazing shapes, exquisite jewelry. The end.

At Gucci, Frida Giannini showed the romantic goth equestrienne.  I fell for this the moment I saw it on the runway. First, I LOVE anything equestrian and Frida made it interesting with pants in a deep bordeaux brocade.  Add a black wool cape and you will not be missed. Very little red riding hood with an deliciously evil twist. Watch for brocade. It will be everywhere.

Finally, Celine continues to change the shape of things. From her oversized coats to the sport motif running throughout the collection, creative director Phoebe Philo did not disappoint. If there is an "IT" item of the season, it is Celine's pointy white wedge pump. I miraculously tracked down a pair but they didn't fit.  I desperately tried on three sizes but had to let them go. Tthere's nothing worse than spending a fortune on a fabulous shoe and having it sit in your closet! 

 

CATEGORIES:   Beautiful things

10.26.2012

The Things That Matter

I love design books because I love to see how people live, what they choose to surround themselves with, and what's important to them.  When I picked up The Things That Matter, by Nate Berkus, I started reading, and I didn't put it down. I literally sat and read the entire book in one sitting, scrutinizing the beautiful interiors and tearing up while reading the personal stories that are shared along the way. The book illustrates Nate's personal journey and the many influential people and experiences in his life that have made him who he is today.  Nate opens his home as well as the homes of twelve other imporant people in his life to reveal their own personal design philosophies.  Life stories are woven into each person's decorating style, and the objects and mementos on display in each home.  I appreciate the fact that the value of the objects is not important. It is the story associated with treasured pieces and the connection to the past that bring the most joy. 

I attended the book signing at Jayson Home and Garden, and Nate is just as charming and warm as I had imagined.

Nate's recipe for building a home: "You just have to add your life, your travels, your memories, the people you've loved, the people who've loved you back, all the stuff that's crossed your path along the way - and then mix"

 

CATEGORIES:   Beautiful things

10.19.2012

Jayson Home and Garden Flea Market

Jayson Home and Garden is one of my favorite spots in Chicago for unique items for the home - whether it's furniture, gifts, pillows, textiles, plants, or books. I always try to make it to their annual Flea Market as early as possible to get a peek at the antique and vintage finds sourced from around the globe. This year I had a sick two-year old with me, so I wasn't able to stop and admire every detail. I went back again solo to take it all in. Beauty at every turn. If you don't live in Chicago, the flea market launched online this week!

 

CATEGORIES:   Places, Beautiful things