i love garlic bread

Wednesday Whimsy: PFW Inspo

2012-03-07T01:58:00.008-08:00

It's so bone chillingly cold outside. Even inside. No refuge. This winter in Beirut has been exceptionally brutal. I've forgone nights out, tucked in bed because it was raining and blogging to sips of chocolatey hot chocolate seemed like a better idea. When I power walk it from my building to car, I find myself grinding my teeth and spewing hate under my breath. Which I can see! Yet, across the Mediterranean, in neighboring Europe, our afashionado friends can be seen audaciously zipping around the streets in cropped tops and bare legs risking pneumonia all in the name of fashion!

Though the mercury levels stay low, the adrenaline rush on the "concrete catwalk" seems to warm up the snazzy show goers of Paris Fashion Week Fall 2012... A vos desirs mes chers amis!

A grinning cotton candy prima ballerina

Louis Vuitton's spring concoction

Green Peace!
Liquid Envelope Clutch by Christopher Kane

A cutie with a right attitude

A Fashion Blogger with swag

Blondes Have More Fun!

Tilda Swinton slick in Haider Ackermann

Ulyana Sergeenko perfects the return of the pointy pump

A Veiled Beauty

Anna Selezneva makes super warm look super cool

Model Hanne Gaby Odiele in spring's famous Balenciaga shorts

Anna Dello Russo getting her Vitamin D on in my FAVE Givenchy Boots

Gloves might do the trick, no?

Cuff bracelets. Matching bag.

Rock! Sweater! Scissors!

Russian Designer Vika Gavinskiya

Vika Gavinskaya SUPERSTYLED in an ensemble of her own creation

Pomme D'amour

Channelling Prince in a Dion Lee Jacket and Peter Pilotto Shirt!

The French Vogue Team never joins in on the fashion circus!

She's no Harley baby

Fashionably Silly

Here's a recap of the streetstyles from NYFW, LFW and MFW.

If you're wondering what a Wednesday Whimsy is? Look here.

Images courtesy of style.com, grazia.it, vogue.com, and marie claire magazine.

A Panther's Great Odyssey

2012-03-06T01:01:00.002-08:00

Cartier's "Odyssey", is sure to be as legendary as its subject. The film stars the prestigious label's iconic panther whose mystical journey unfolds through time as signature Cartier pieces magically come to life in a fantastical worldwide montage including Paris, Russia, China and India. You don't have to be a Cartier connoisseur to marvel at this epic masterpiece set to a hauntingly powerful score that almost makes you feel like you're at the theatre. This opulent two-year-in-the-making shot is as rich in movie references as it is RICH and Cartier can now add this to its inventory of treasured gems.

The Original Kate

2012-03-05T00:44:00.001-08:00

They said, "There is only one Kate in London." A picture of a naked Kate Moss in a bridal tiara, holding a bouquet of creamy flowers in front of her nether regions with the aforementioned quote stamped on it went viral the day Kate Middleton married her Prince William, heir to the throne, son of the immortal Lady Diana, stepson to the austere Queen... A testament to Kate Moss's legendary persona. In this mystical editorial entitled "Good Kate, Bad Kate" photographed by Steven Klein for W Magazine, a regal Kate Moss clad in Spring 12's famous wares literally lives up to the legend that she is.

Images courtesy of Fashion Gone Rogue.

Wednesday Whimsy: MFW Inspo

2012-02-29T13:52:00.098-08:00

It fascinates me when I spot on the streets of fashion week those mega editors, models and bloggers whom I've previously exchanged tweets or instagram messages with- to name a few Daphne Groeneveld, Caroline Issa, Man Repeller, Candice Lake, Hanneli Mustaparta, Eleonora Carisi... Given that I blog out of a tiny district in Beirut whilst lounging on a sea-view sofa or a hill-side bed, this interaction courtesy of social media makes me feel somehow connected... Especially when the timing of the exchange coincides with fashion week. Channeling positive energy towards me, a woman whose sense of style I admire takes a few humble seconds off her busy fashion week sked to type into her smart phone in reply to me... Be it from a street cafe, a hotel room, possibly a cab or even, in the case of models, during backstage hair and makeup!

Here are the streets of Milan Fashion Week rife with fabulous showgoers many of which I follow on twitter and insta...

Scoring home runs in Miu Miu's Fall '11 baseball cap

Meet Viviana Volpicella! What a pretty name?!

Remember my Pyjamarama post?! I miss America.

Snakes and Leathers!

Beautiful layering and a priceless white turtleneck

Love the rich velvet and snow white combo. So pretty!

Head-to-toe florals against a flower shop backdrop... The Art of Streetstyle

Nail polish drama!

Prepped up in stripes. What a pair?!

She's all RIPPED!

Love me a snowflake sweater!

A whole lot a Prada

Girl's on fire

A mix of Dalmatian and Plaid

So effortless...

Fresh Vibes n' Pale Palettes

Crochet tablecloth dress by Dolce and Gabbana SS'12

Put on an underskirt Anna Dello Russo!

Daddy?! I want RED hair!

Images courtesy of style.com, vogue.com, leeoliviera.com, Marie Claire, and Harper's Bazaar.

No Cat in this Hat

2012-02-29T02:01:00.003-08:00

Balenciaga SS'12

A few weeks ago, I sent the above pictures of Balenciaga's "Open top Darth Vader- inspired hat" to my friend Olivia Red and asked her what she thought about it. Being an LA girl, she replied, "Where would you wear it? Who would wear it?"

I CLEARLY do not claim any genius for having guessed the right answer. Anyone who knows Anna Dello Russo's inextricable zeal for extravagance would expect to see this ecclesial adaptation of a visor sitting atop her head. Clad in head-to-ankle Balenciaga (haven't seen the toes), here she is spotted blessing the streets of Milan Fashion Week Fall 2012...

Anna Dello Russo

Look it Olive! Here's another brave heart!

Prada SS'12 Coat

Images courtesy of style.com and vogue.com

It's a Bittersweet Symphony

2012-02-28T02:21:00.006-08:00

Here is the Spring/Summer 2012 campaign for Dubai's Symphony boutique...

Alessandra Rich SS'12

Naeem Khan SS'12

Luisa Beccaria SS'12

Jason Wu SS'12

Charlotte Olympia SS'12

Rachel Zoe SS'12

Let me share a few thoughts here... If you're a multibrand luxury boutique that can manage to attract Russian fashion icon Miroslava Duma and street style photographer guru Tommy Ton and bring them together in a photo shoot in sunny Dubai, I would expect a little more seize of an opportunity and a greater stab at creativity in regards to the fashion styling. Preferably a more thoughtful and mature curation of looks rather than snapping different shots of a rich girl in swanky off-the-runway dresses paired with designer heels. Given the city's familiar background, the vibrant colors and Tommy Ton's lens, I enjoyed "flipping" through the campaign so I would say it does its job on the publicity front but in regards to ingenuity? Not so much.

What are your thoughts? Go on! Share with me.

SIDENOTE Here's a backstage shot from Jason Wu's Spring 2012 show. It seems this playful mullet dress makes its models want to RUN! I reckon, if done in white and paired with a head veil, it would be the perfect choice for a runaway bride...

Images courtesy of Harper's Bazaar Arabia and Vogue.com.

Fall 2012 NYFW in Backstage Motion

2012-02-23T05:31:00.000-08:00

Marchesa

Derek Lam

The Execution~ Derek Lam

BCBG

Celestial Stars at Rodarte

Legends at Alexander Wang

Face Sketch at Narciso Rodriguez

A Mother Lode of Bobbi Brown at Tibi

Reed Krakoff

"We wanted to do a grungy-punk-couture girl."
~Makeup artist Tom Pecheux for Altuzarra

"The makeup ended up feeling a bit Avatar-ish. But also like, wild birds of paradise. Beetles. Peacocks."
~ Makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury for Prabal Gurung

DKNY

Distressed Gold at Prabal

J. Mendel

Rodarte

Prabal Gurung

Scarab Jewelry at Prabal

Embellished Clutches at Marchesa

Lace Embroidery at Marchesa

Slick at Alexander Wang

"Lil Drummer Boy Hats" at Marc by Marc Jacobs

And we think modeling is easy- looks like traffic in Beirut!

Red-light District at L'Wren Scott

Goofing Around at Ohne Titel!

Soft and Feminine at Preen

"It's Asian, but in a New York way."
~Lazaro Hernandez of Proenza Schouler

Lindsey Wixson at Zac Posen

Japanese Inspired Chignons at Zac Posen

Michael Kors Written "Pep Talk"

Oversized Whites at Proenza Schouler

Creatures of the Wind

"And the show begins."

"Trailing Trains" at Derek Lam

Images courtesy of vogue.com

Wednesday Whimsy: LFW Inspo

2012-02-22T04:27:00.019-08:00

Omnibuses racing around Piccadilly Circus while gentry stroll up and down Bond street. Tourists gazing at the statues in Trafalgar Square while shoppers tear through Oxford Street shops. The clock tick tocking in Westminster. The nouveau riche of Sloane street brunching on King's Road. Friends hanging out in Kensington while a Romeo serenades his Juliet in Hyde Park. Punk rockers distributing flyers in Camden while vintage hoarders browse Notting Hill's Portobello. The students of Regent's Park waiting for a bus as Kate Moss steps out of a black cab in Covent Garden. Carnaby Street. Savile Row. Park Lane. Soho. Walton Street. Swallow. Argyll. Davies. Fulham Road... These are all names of streets that were very much a part of my life towards the end of 2006 and the whole of 2007 while studying in a town just outside London called Reading. A time in my life I fervently miss but am warmly reminded of when I look upon the street style pics from London Fashion Week...

Tailored and Polka-Poppy.

Candy pink pants + Acne heels + Celine tricolore = I dig this woman

Heels taking a cobbled street beating- this chick's on a mission!

Studded Flat Booties I can see my GBF's (gay best friend) rocking- by Chloe.

Love the whole loose swooshy thing paired with the "I just rolled out of bed" look.
But most of all, her legs for days!

Mira! Lebanese and beautiful!

Lady Gaga and Gwen Stefani's love child in a tailored jacket funked up by fuchsia fun!
J'aime beaucoup.

Bold and beautiful

What's in a letter? LOADS. Sure hope that's fake- the fur!

Shoulder porn- A little too naked for London in Feb, don't ya think?!
But soft pink and neutrals in gray rain and wet glistening pavement- Very romantic.

And the romance continues... Love the top-knot bun and the Chrisopher Kane bejeweled top.

Earlobe porn

Love every style choice Taylor Tomasi Hill makes... Standing O, Ginger!

Should you wish to entertain yourselves with more street style pics, I cordially invite you to visit I Love Garlic Bread's Facebook page :)

For a recap on New York Fashion Week's street style, look here.

Don't know what a Wednesday Whimsy is? Look here.

Images courtesy of Marie Claire, Harper's Bazaar, style.com, grazia.it, and vogue.com

iluvgb X Hangout

2012-02-21T03:02:00.003-08:00

I'm very excited to share with you my very own Q&A for Crepaway's Hangout Magazine in its Jan-Feb 2012 issue. What I enjoyed most about this experience was the insightful probing from Hangout's editor that in turn made me reflect upon my blog in a way I hadn't before- probably because I live it day to day and it's second nature. Another plus was I got to answer, in one setting, all of the questions readers have been asking me regarding my blog. The most famous being: "How did you come up with the name?" Read here to find out and learn more about us...

If you have a voracious appetite for garlic bread and delicious lunches, brunches and suppers, 'LIKE' Crepaway's page here. And if you are a fashion enthusiast who loves a virtual rant and rave, 'like' MY page here.

Check out some of the unpublished questions and answers...

Tell me about the content of your blog in a few words.

Fashion, lifestyle, art, music, icons, whatever is trending, whatever is on the pulse... Beirut at its heart.

Where does your passion for fashion stem from?

I grew to appreciate fashion and art through my travels, over the years- and discovered I had an eye for all things beautiful. After all, I'm just a girl... Fashion comes easy to us.

What do you find people are enjoying most about your blog?

To be honest, I don't know. People have said, "I love your blog." I just smile big and say, "Thank you." Then my heart skips a few beats. I haven't asked what exactly they like about it. I should.

What motivates you to blog on days when you're not really feeling it?

Oh in this mad world, those days are one too many... When my tide is low, I usually crumple up under my sheets then tell myself, "Wait, no, snap out of it, you have a blog to nurture." So I get up and put those emotions into Garlic Bread. It's invigorating. It takes me to another world and it's nice over there.

What do you wish you had known before taking on this hobby?

I entered the realm of blogging with no expectation, so I can't say I wish I had known any particular thing. It's changed my life to a certain extent and I'm happy to be learning as I move along.

Spring '12 Clones

2012-02-17T02:53:00.001-08:00

This post sums up some of the most popular pieces selected from the Spring '12 collections-- those most talked about by editors, most photographed in editorials, and most likely to be emulated on the racks of high street fashion pioneers, or in Beirut's case, Zara!

Keyhole-Front Dress by Stella McCartney

Cardinal Loafer Pumps by YSL

Rosette Necklace and Drop Earrings by Prada

Broderie Anglaise Collar by Louis Vuitton

Shark Tooth Necklace by Givenchy

Geometric Bead Linen Top by Burberry Prorsum

Flame Heels by Prada

Flapper Shape Fringe Dress by Gucci

Images courtesy of fashionising.com, burberry.com, fashiongonerogue, nymag.com and vogue.com

Wednesday Whimsy: NYFW Inspo

2012-02-15T12:54:00.095-08:00

As a fashion enthusiast, the fashion weeks always end up feeling like Christmas day when I turn into a giddy little girl who can't wait to unwrap the exciting surprises gifted to us by our favorite designers. Yet I find myself equally drawn to the beautiful show-goers off the street, marveling just as much, at what they pulled out of their closets to wear to the magical events.

Here is a demo of Fall 2012 NYFW...

Celine's craveworthy floral pants!! Spotted.

Tavi, world's youngest blogger when she began at the ripe old age of 11!

I stinking love the peak-a-boo thighs! Top? Not so much.

Loving the cropped-top action and the cat-eye ;) Whiskers are also cute.

Pink sunglasses by Karen Walker... J'die. WOW.

What's the opposite of colorblind? Cuz she's IT.

Proenza's Futuristic Tribe

Skiing down 9th? Avenue

Just cool...

Shala Monroque... Always a bundle of class!

Ulyana Sergeenko... My lover!

Should you wish to entertain yourselves with more streetstyle photos, I cordially invite you to visit I LOVE GARLIC BREAD's Facebook page :)

Don't know what a Wednesday Whimsy is? Check here.

Images courtesy of style.com, marie claire, grazia.it, and vogue.com.

SeenWJeen #3

2012-02-15T02:12:00.000-08:00

I've met Matteo El Khodr through mutual friends. And many who live in Beirut probably share the same experience. Less of your typical opera singer more of a diva, I've watched him perform a number of times and recall leaving Hamra's Walima one night, blown away by his arabic infused version of Lady Gaga's "Bad Romance".

A modern day renaissance man, Matteo El Khodr, is a countertenor with an ethereal voice. Nurturing his talent to fulfill his aspiration of being a professional opera singer, he is a prized pupil at the prestigious Ecole Normale de Musique Alfred Cortot, Paris, obtaining a degree in "Perfectionnement Vocal Baroque." Having moved out of Beirut 9 years ago, he lives in Saint-Germain des Pres in the 6th Arrondissement, with two little pups, Boobie and Kelly, who just like himself entertain a lavish wardrobe. When he's not hitting the schoolbooks, he spends his precious hours traveling, working out, rehearsing and singing at a choir at Salle Pleyel. One fine day, preferably when the sun is shining, he hopes to sign a contract with an opera house or a music label.

Matteo doesn't leave home without his black eyeliner courtesy of a hindi kohl imported specially from India. Always seated amidst the rows of Paris fashion week, the ever-so-stylish countertenor achieved *literal* sartorial bliss when his street style was captured by the famous lenses of both Stockholm Streetstyle and The Sartorialist- and if fashion were the lottery, that's equivalent to hitting the jackpot TWICE! CHA CHING! His love affair with Hermes rivals any woman's and his motto is: Don't ever talk to me about the rules. I make the God damn rules!

To know Matteo is to simply love him, his joie de vivre, his flair and lust for all things fabulous.

Here, "I Love Garlic Bread" hits all his notes...

Snapshot by Stockholm Streetstyle

Inspo

Meet Kelly Dearest!

I fell in love with opera when... I first saw Rima Tawil singing with Placido Domingo at the Baalbek Festival!

My favorite music artists are... from my pop side Kylie Minogue and my opera side Vivaldi and Haendel.

My favorite Matteo El Khodr live performance to date was... back in 2008, MATTEO Live in Queen Club Paris!

The most stylish city I've ever been to is... London, waiting to see NYC.

My biggest splurge to date has been... a 50 inch black Birkin, called Merkin.

Look! A Merkin!

You will never catch me wearing... heels anymore!

My most treasured possession is... my family!

If I could sing a duet with anyone it would be... Madonna!

My favorite store to shop in... is a secret. I'll tell you my second favorite, Kiliwatch! It's a huge vintage and consignment store in Etienne Marcel, a very hip and fashionable district in Paris.

My favorite nighttime hangout in Beirut is... Behind the Green Door. In Paris... it used to be the Paris Paris, which was the best place ever! Electro music with a londonish vibe... Fab people... Weirdos dressed up like it were halloween EVERY NIGHT!! And I remember this giant pink Mickey Mouse at the entrance with a HUGE boner. Now I frequent the Montana which is more trendy chic. It's just down my flat in Saint-Germain des Pres and glued to the Cafe de Flore. The sound is more Parisian electro and you'll always see some wannabe's here and there trying to fit in the scene.

My favorite spot for brunch in Beirut is... Casablanca for its Summer Rolls, effing awesome! In Paris... it's Le Loire dans la Theiere, a cafe inspired from Lewis Carroll's cafe in Alice and Wonderland. You have to go there to experience the weird, quirky and whimsical feel!

Le Loire dans la Theiere

When I'm away from Beirut, I miss... Koussa Blaban and Wara2 3enab!

A beautiful day in Paris would involve... sun, a cup of cafe creme and an open credit card for unlimited shopping!

The best Valentine's gift I ever received was... an Ipad case from Hermes. And the worst was... a Kettle. Ma32oul?

I like to spend Valentine's... in bed.

Growing up I wanted to be... a STAR!

Something not many people know about me... I was a clepto! and I stress on the WAS!

My first most fashionabe memory is... wearing a skirt and dancing the Ravel's Bolero at the age of 10!

The most daring thing I've ever worn is... a beautiful fur coat over my topless self with a pair of super skinny jeans! I wore it to a fashion show after party at Le Baron, Paris. Got a pic of it? No! Too daring!

The music artist with the best sense of style is... Pete Doherty?

Pete Doherty

The most thrilling part of being on stage is... the make up, the fitting and everything before arriving on stage. Once on a stage it's like flying on a magic carpet!

The most challenging part of being a performer is... singing correctly with no wrong notes!

The best feeling in the world is... paying the bills and knowing you're in good physical shape.

The last album I bought was... The movie soundtrack, "It's All Gone Pete Tong!"

The most played song on my ipod at the moment is... "Behold a Virgin Shall Conceive" by Messiah (Haendel) and "Marry The Night" by Gaga.

The last show I went to was... a drag queen show in Mykonos! Hahahahaha. Do you have pictures... Yeah. Not gonna send them... 7elle 3anneh!!!

For SeenWJeen #2, click here & #1 here!

Ulyana Sergeenko

2012-02-13T06:30:00.000-08:00

Ulyana Sergeenko LOVES grey sweaters. She gives off the impression of a lady with an overpowering presence that could make everything and everyone around her shrivel. I love the way she seems to be part of another era yet has stepped into 2012 and still looks like she belongs. I admire her daring looks in the middle of the day when most women rather keep it relatively safer!

Ulyana Sergeenko is a Russian designer, photographer, stylist, editor and style icon. In many of the streetstyle shots below, she samples her own designs which debuted as her first collection this past Fall and which give a nod to the ladylike 50's.

Here is a sneak peak of Ms. ULTRA Chic.

I'm infinitely amused with her Fall 2011 designs. I can't recall a time where I'd fallen in love with as many pieces from the same collection (except when Riccardo Tisci designs for Givenchy Haute Couture of course). For her lovely Spring 2012, look here.

Mary K Collaborates

2012-02-13T02:16:00.000-08:00

Mary Katrantzou's collection for Topshop will be available online and in stores on February 17, 2012.

Now who is this Mary? She is an Athens-born designer known for her colorfully vivid prints and structural silhouettes, the fish bowl skirt being a personal favorite. She studied a lil Architecture at the Rhode Island School of Design before switching to Central Saint Martins where she completed both a BA and an MA in Textile Design (I feel like I'm writing her cover letter) graduating in 2008, round the time I completed my master's... Wow, and I'm here and she's THERE! The prodigal designer launched her eponymous collection in 2008 and since then she's won The Swiss Textile Award (2010) and British Fashion Awards' Best Emerging Talent (2011), in addition to the hearts of many many fashion lovers around the world. Standing O, gurl!

SIDENOTE Mary Katrantzou very recently launched a collection for Longchamps Paris as well! OMG! She's sooo promiscuous...

Illuminate Her Senses

2012-02-10T04:57:00.000-08:00

Rosa Mundi by Diptyque

Listen boy, picture this:

Whether she's lounging with the girls, at her place, in a pretty pink robe, holding a mug of jasmin infused Thai Chai and hosting girlie talk... Or bathing her body in a warm foamy bubble bath, late at night, while repeating to herself, "It's only Monday..." Perhaps meditating in front of her sumptuous wardrobe, hesitating between spring 12's peplums or pastels... Or even sinking in bed with "Love in the Time of Cholera" as the rain drizzles outside her window and the internet connection is dead...

Diptyque's Rosa Mundi, an OSV* (Oh So Very) limited edition candle, will gently settle an all around sense of cozy-feel, turning every simple past time into an enchanting moment.

So treat your loved one soft and sweet and charm her, on this Valentine's Day, with one of the few top shelf Rosa Mundi candles by Diptyque. Rest assured, if she blows off the flame, it's only to save some for later.

Diptyque's address? "The beautiful world of Aishti" (76 USD)

*OSV is courtesy of Tino K from UK.

An Illusion

2012-02-09T03:00:00.000-08:00

In a telephone conversation with friend and stylist, Mouna Harati, I asked her what she thought of Peter Pilotto's SS'12 famous aquatic fish-scale design and it was then that I discovered an interesting detail about its architecture: The criss-cross print positioned on the front is designed to accentuate a woman's bosoms and to extenuate her waist before opening up on the hips, thus bringing her figure closest to that of the highly esteemed hour glass.

Finishing the look with black Nicholas Kirkwood heels, Miranda Kerr does complete justice to Pilotto's design. A Victoria's Secret bod... Orlando Bloom as baby's papa... What a fortunate creature?! Not that those criteria are a measure of good fortune, don't get me wrong! But like my friend, Olivia Red, would nod and say: "It must be nice!"

Wednesday Whimsy

2012-02-08T03:18:00.000-08:00

Raquel Welch

"Keep in mind that most men like to pursue and win you. Don't rob him of the enjoyment of doing that. When it comes to dressing to go out, it's been my experience that guys prefer to think that the object of their affection is someone exclusive who isn't available to everyone in the room. You're clever enough to strike the right balance between hot and classy, aren't you? Turn up the heat, but don't invite the whole fire department."

~Raquel Welch

Reblogged from RED † Oleander.

To find out what a WED whimsy is go here.

Back to the Future

2012-02-06T02:09:00.000-08:00

I don't coif my hair much so unless I'm invited to a swanky event or a wedding, only then will I make a trek to the salon. Once seated in the leather chair with sopping hair, I'll say "I don't know. Hmmm... Bta3milleh natural curls?" (And so will every other girl in Beirut). Let's face it, there's nothing natural about salon curls in Mediterranean Sea humidity replete with dust and smog. While some of my friends are gutsy and order the "L'humeur de chef*", the mere idea of doing my hair blindly sends me into panic mode. So now it's important to me to put just as much planning into my hair as I do the outfit that's going with it- and I never make a trip without my ipad showcasing the exact look I want to achieve.

That being said, I can't wait to try David Koma's extraordinary 'do from his Spring '12 show entitled, "Futuristic Tribe." It's rather intricate given the shapes and symmetry but the overall look screams clean, sharp, avant-garde-- 'the future'. One I hope I'm still around to see :)

* The Chef's mood

Pictures courtesy of Fashionising.com

Speaking of hairstyles, don't you just LOVE Tilda Swinton's?! Here she walks down the red carpet at the Screen Actor's Guild Awards. Look! In beautiful Lanvin... A dress fit for royals.

Pearls Make Happy Girls

2012-02-03T01:24:00.000-08:00

Marloes Horst for Harper's Bazar Australia March '12

Federico Fellini said, "All art is autobiographical. The pearl is the oyster's autobiography."

And who better marries art and elegance than CHANEL. In their magical Spring '12 Collection, models were adorned with pearl hair pins that though small and simplistic, add just the right touch of sophistication and charm.

Diamonds may be forever but pearls are RIGHT NOW. Their subtlety can add just as much pop to a candilicious pastel outfit as diamonds or gems. Conversely, they can be your "go-to" if you're looking to soften a leathered up grungy look. And of all the jewelry DIY's, making a pearl hair pin, pearl posts or even a necklace, are the simplest to do...

SIDENOTE Love the rich pearl + disheveled hair combo in the last picture... A delectable mix of immaculate & messy!

Sitting on my Desktop

2012-02-01T01:50:00.000-08:00

This is what every highschool uniform should look like!
Current/Elliott Spring '12 Lookbook

Very androgynous!

"PHOTOBOMB"

We Are Handsome Spring '12 Lookbook shot in Miami Beach

"CLEANUP IN AISLE 7!"
Constance Jablonski in Prabal Gurung for Vogue Latin America Feb '12

Amazing what a fringe-y sock can do- did you notice they're the same shoe?

Who's in the mood for Coachella?

Coachella?! Too far. So sad.

Wednesday Whimsy

2012-02-01T01:00:00.000-08:00

"If it's not working, find a solution or find an end."

~Olivia Red

For S.L and J.Z and everyone experiencing the tormenting struggles of love. ♥

If you're wondering what a Wednesday Whimsy is, click here.

Drizzle Darling

2012-01-31T02:49:00.000-08:00

Of all the street style photographs taken during Spring 2012 Couture shows, my ultimate fave was snapped under Paris's trickling rain by THE street style guru, Tommy Ton. Here we're looking at American model, Lindsey Wixson, as she bundles up to stay dry.

Perhaps it's the "bee-stung lips" and gapped front teeth framed so seductively by the fur trim of her hoodie... Or maybe it's the blue reflection of the doudoune against her watery, sapphire eyes... Could simply be the candid shot unbeknowst to her. I'm not sure, I just love it. I also have my watchful eye on the guy rocking the croc backpack!

Lindsey nails staying warm and cozy without sacrificing her personal style, and that is no small feat. Definitely something to think about given Beirut's bone-chillingly damp winter we're all enduring.

FUN FACT! Did you know that Jason Wu custom made Lindsey's prom dress last year?! It was actually her friend's prom because she doesn't go to school. Too busy, I guess.

Blue Dreams

2012-01-27T03:15:00.000-08:00

Step out of the cold and into the blue in Acne's pre-spring 2012 jewel-tone dupioni satin pumps. Wear this quirky platform with a simple outfit to add instant cool, a pop of color, and some ooh-la-la!

Save the Cheerleader, Save the World!

2012-01-26T03:04:00.000-08:00

Cervical cancer affects approximately 10,000 women in the United States each year. It's the second most common type of cancer worldwide, but because it develops over time, it is also one of the most preventable types of cancer.

Did I get your attention, ladies?!

Here is a picture of my arm getting the third and final shot of the HPV vaccine. HPV stands for Human Papilloma Virus and thanks for the advances of modern day science, we have a vaccine that can protect us, our partners, and our future children.

As I was stepping up to sit on the Doctor's bed I said, "I have a weird request. Do you mind if I take a picture of my arm while you're injecting me." He said, "Why? Do you want to put it on Facebook?" I said, "Well eventually... But I run a blog about fashion and every now and then I like to talk about something different."

The purpose of this post is not to shock or scare. It's to make you stop and re-evaluate your responsibilities towards your health as a woman. Have you taken all three shots of the HPV vaccine? If you haven't, why not? Talk to your doctor about it. Be pro-active about your health. It is yours to keep! A cliche that holds true is, "Better safe than sorry".

You can learn more here.

... So show your cervix some love and go get pricked! Pun intended ;)

SeenWJeen #2

2012-01-25T02:30:00.000-08:00

Kicking off 2012 with a fun new fixture to I Love Garlic Bread, SeenWJeen... An insight into the likes and minds of Lebanese fashion lovers.

During a chat with entrepreneurs-in-the-making, Narina Najm and Serene Abbas, I posed, "Who do you think I should Q&A next?" Almost in tandem they said, "MIRA HAYEK!" I remembered her instantly as I had seen her designs. "They're Brazilian inspired, very quirky," I said.

So this is how I came to feature the very talented emerging Lebanese designer!

Following extensive studies in Graphic and Fashion Design, whilst in Beirut and Milan, and internships at Elie Saab, Beirut as well as Erdem, London, the promising designer landed a gig as one of the proteges at Starch 2011. It was then and there when she launched her first eponymous collection entitled: A Namorada. (Portugese for "The Girlfriend.")

What captivates me most about the Lookbook, aside from the innovative designs and rich, vivid colors, is the way they're paired with Nike sneakers and Adidas winter boots. It's only when I visited her very personalized Atelier in Gemmayzeh that I realized just how much her character speaks true to the collection. She is as sporty, vibrant and vivacious as her creations.

Here, Mira answers "I Love Garlic Bread's" questions in true Namorada spirit...

My favorite Lebanese designer is... Rabih Kayrouz. My favorite all time designer is... Nicolas Ghesquiere.

A SS12 show that blew me away was.... Acne for the silhouettes and the color palette.

Issey Miyake for the headpieces and leggings.

The must-have piece for SS12 is... A new pair of kicks to complement your Mira Hayek dress :)

My go to restaurant in Beirut is... St. Elmo's for their delicious seafood, Bloody Original, and the not-to-miss Soft Center Chocolate Chip Cookie.

My favorite nighttime hangout in the city is... Dictateur.

If I could dress anyone in the world, it would be... Roisin Murphy, my fashion icon.

The last place I traveled to was... Beautiful Istanbul- fabric and zipper hunting.

A blog I love is... JAK & JIL.

My favorite perfume is... Flower by Kenzo.

My favorite store to shop in is... STARCH! :) The Good Life and The Union.

This past Halloween, I was dressed as... Amy Winehouse.

Growing up I wanted to be a... Ballerina.

The best advice I've ever gotten is... Live like an adult, think like a child.

The best feeling in the world is... Love.

My New Year's resolution is... Same as every year: Do it!

Of all the items I've created, my favorite is... The Tunnel Dress.

The woman I design for is... Modern, fun, urban, young at heart, dynamic, likes to party, is not afraid of taking risks...

My sports regimen is... DVD workouts (The Tracy Anderson Method) and dancing.

Something not many people know about me... I am obsessed with Japenese Dolls.

The person with the best style in Hollywood is... Tilda Swinton. She has a unique and modern sense of style.

My latest collection was inspired by the work of Brazilian graffiti artists Os Gemeos. My next is... Going to be revealed in a few months!

The track most played on my ipod at the moment is... Audiofly Feat. Fiora- 6 Degrees (Tales Of Us Remix).

For SeenWJeen #1, see here.

Wednesday Whimsy

2012-01-25T00:45:00.000-08:00

"There is nothing like puking with somebody to make you into old friends."

~Sylvia Plath, The Bell Jar

I've never puked with somebody. I've barely puked alone. But I know what she's getting at.

Image courtesy of Olivia Red.

If you're wondering what a Wednesday Whimsy is, see here.

Spotted Gossiping

2012-01-20T01:40:00.000-08:00

Anyone who knows me can attest to how much of a camera-phobe I am. That device terrifies me! I can't get down with the act of "posing" for a picture and I don't like seeing myself in one either. The minute a camera gets whipped out, I take off. I have mastered the disappearing act and my admittedly silly tricks are many. Occasionally, one might manage to snap a limb or some hair, or my back-side, but generally speaking, there is no pictorial evidence of 'me'. And if you do manage to sneak one, I will shamelessly attack, pull hair, whatever it takes to delete said picture.

So when I received a call from Gossip Magazine one morning to be featured as a fashion blogger in a seven-day outfit shoot, full anxiety set in. Instead of replying with a big, fat, easy NO, I decided to suck it up and pull myself out of my comfort zone. It sounded like fun and hey, it was something to do. Plus, I'm not getting any younger.

Thanks to the Gossip team alongside skilled photographer, Bachar Srour, and my faith in Photoshop this anticipated painful experience turned out to be a blast.

You can pick up the delightfully fun read of Gossip at any Aizone branch. Whether you fancy fashion, music, art, or food, this newspaper-esque publication is a rich source for all things hip. And since it's free of charge, you can return the favor and 'like' their Facebook page here and MINE! here Cheerios xx

Un Peu Risque

2012-01-20T00:52:00.000-08:00

I'm taking a break from Spring's pastels and peplums, which often evoke girlish innocence and soft femininity to post the strikingly statuesque, Karlie Kloss, as she stopped me dead in my flowery tracks.

Here she floats down Anthony Vacarello's (left) and Prabal Gurung's catwalks in body-baring, sleek peekaboo dresses to remind us all that no matter the season or temperature, black ALWAYS comes back... These masterpieces reek of wanton sexuality, making hell freeze over and killing all the pretty, pretty 'Spring' flowers :)

SIDENOTE: This whole shebang reminds me of a quote from the late, great Alexander McQueen.

Shadow of the night: A Magazine Dec'11/Jan'12

2012-01-19T03:19:00.000-08:00

Photography. Alessio Bolzoni

Stylist. Mouna Harati

Beirut Bambi: Decade Decadence

2012-01-18T06:55:00.000-08:00

Just days before Christmas, party mode went into full effect at Aishti's "People" Restaurant to celebrate the department store's -10 years in Downtown Beirut.

For this festive anniversary, the venue underwent a fashion make-over morphing into Paris's glammy Le Baron nightclub. Dim red-lights and crimson velvet curtains set the mood while an illuminated dance floor was all arranged to embrace Beirut's fashion elite.

To the jamming beats of Le Baron's resident DJ, who flew in especially from the Parisian capital, a jubilant mix of multi-generational guests sipped bubbly, nibbled on miniburgers and busted out their best dance moves!

Burberry Pythons

Boys will be boys..

Night Walk by Jeffrey Campbell

Wolverine

Lace on Lace Action

Channelling 90's Madonna

Mini-Munchies

Mr. Bernard Khoury

In Belle Sauvage

Frizzilicious!

Sequined

In her very own Karoline Lang..

Boys will be boys once again

A Necklace by Jean Paul Gaultier

Happy People!

Stellar

Catwoman

Wednesday Whimsy: "Like their supposed to, for me-"

2012-01-18T02:17:00.000-08:00

August 8th, 1968

Dearest Dad,

Well... I know you probably wonder what happened to me --- Well nothing good. I just quit Little Richard. He didn't pay us for 5 1/2 weeks... and you can't live on promises when you're on the road – So I had to cut that mess loose - And he still didn't pay me what he owes me, which is why everything's still messed up now - But I still have my guitar + amp and as long as I have that, no fool can keep me from living. I hope Everything and Everyone's alright up that way... I haven't sent word up in so long that I almost forgot our address... SO now I'm starting all over again there's a few record companies I visited that I probably could record for - I think I'll start working toward that line because actually when you're playing behind other people you're still not making as big a name for yourself. But I went on the road with other people to get exposed to the public and to see how business is taking care of, and mainly, just what's what. And after I put a record out, there'll be a few people who know me already and can help with the sale of the record - Nowdays, people don't want you to sing good - they want you to sing sloppy and have a good beat to your song. So that's what angle I'm going to shoot at. That's where the money is. So just in case about 3 or 4 months from now, you might hear a record by me which sounds Terrible, Don't feel ashamed, just wait till the money rolls in - Because everyday, people are singing worse and worse on purpose... And the public buys more and more records.

So... I just wrote to let you know I'm still here trying to make it, although I don't eat everyday, everything's going alright for me - things could be worse than this - But I'm going to keep hustling and shuffling until I finally get things to happening... like they're supposed to, for me -

Tell everyone, I said hello... Leon, Gramma, Ben + Ernie, Uncle Frank, Mary, Barbra, and so forth -

Please write soon -

It's pretty lonely out here by myself

Best of luck + Happiness

In the future

Love

Your Son Jimmy

My address is:

Jimmy Hendrix c/o

Maurice James

Hotel America

Rm 710B

145 West 47th Street New York, NY

Letter from Richard Prince's book "American Prayer".

PS It is my dear friend Olivia Red's will to walk down the aisle someday, in this lacy frock, to the jazzy sounds of Jimmy's Foxy Lady i.e. This is a dedication...

In case you're wondering what a Wednesday Whimsy is, take a look here.

Shourouk's Jewels

2012-01-17T00:37:00.000-08:00

Shourouk Rhaiem, a Parisian of Tunisian origins, creates these opulent baubles which partly resemble long-treasured heirlooms; the kind your mother will tell you she received on her wedding day. The colored woven cord counterbalances the decadence of the vintage-inspired Swarovski crystal clusters making it "Part Maharajah, part sportif".

It's striking on its own but throw it in a mix with other eclectic bracelets for a bright and sparkly arm party!

Find them online at Net-A-Porter or, depending on where you call home, check here for a store nearest to you.

Image courtesy of vogue.com.

Spring* Pastels and Summer* Palates

2012-01-13T05:13:00.000-08:00

Louis Vuitton SS12 Carousel

Vera Wang SS12 (Left) and Calvin Klein Collection SS12

An Animal Style Burger with its Thousand Island Sauce

Acne Jade Cable Knit

3.1 Phillip Lim SS12

Yves Saint Laurent SS12

Versus SS12

Alexander Wang SS12

A preview of the deliciously decadent sorbet colored palettes that will be wetting our palates this upcoming spring.

Looks good enough to eat! I mean wear.

Beirut Bambi: 6:05. Tick, Tock, Tick.

2012-01-11T11:50:00.000-08:00

While the clouds were hovering above Beirut city this morning, the mailman, in true mailman style, delivered my invitation card for the opening of depechemode's first concept store. Place? Palladium, Mina El-Hosn, Downtown Beirut. Date? Thursday 12th of Jan, 2012 Time? 45MINS before 6:05. The significance of the :05? I'm curious too! I tried deciphering some clues, to no avail. Nevertheless, I'll find out tomorrow. Till then enjoy this teaser campaign which highlights the word 'concept' throughout. Finally, a new concept store with a seemingly good head on its shoulders.

All Lacquered Up

2012-01-11T07:02:00.000-08:00

Reverse french manicure aka half-moon nails via Garance Dore

An ever-sophisticated variation of the three step process: undercoat-color-topcoat, the above forms of nail art harken back to an era when women spent long elegant hours in the pursuit of sartorial bliss and aesthetic perfection. I imagine if I brought these examples to a manicurist in Beirut, where nails are mass polished at a rate of one waiting lady after the other, she would simply and politely ask me to get lost. Maybe not.

Wednesday Whimsy

2012-01-11T06:14:00.000-08:00

"One's first love is always perfect until one meets one's second love."

~Elizabeth Aston.

Reblogged from Red † Oleander.

If you're wondering what a Wednesday Whimsy is, have a look here.

"Not Your Grandma's Doily"

2012-01-09T13:03:00.000-08:00

I discovered these wedges courtesy of a recent Instagram post by Tank Magazine's outrageously stylish Director, Caroline Issa. These knockout shoes hail from Liam Fahy's spring 2012 collection, The Elegant Collectables. I take a shine to the juxtaposition of the doily-esque fabric our grandmothers lavishly decorate their homes with and the modern sharply crafted wedge in rich burgundy.

They're romantic! They're feminine! Lacy and lovely! Who wouldn't want to frolic in these?! Granny might even be jealous.

Put An I.A.N. On It

2012-01-06T10:39:00.000-08:00

On this glorious Armenian Christmas Day, I present to you some prestigious Armo names, in fashion, which I have randomly stumbled upon during my many rigorous blog research excavations...

Enjoy (Pari Vayeloum)!

Kevork Kiladjian, French Armenian, Fashion Designer (NY).

SS12

Resort 2012

FW11

Natalia Alaverdian, Russian Armenian, Stylist and Fashion Editor for Harper's Bazaar Russia.

Anna Selezneva, Russian Armenian, Fashion Model

Photographed by Hedi Slimane

Isabel Marant Etoile Spring 2012 Lookbook

Vogue Russia September 2011

Sharon Kavdjian, Armenian American, Fashion Model

Aram Bedrossian, Armenian American, Fashion Photographer and Blogger

That's him!

Cosmopolitan Armenia December 2010

Dannijo Fall 2011 Lookbook

Lovecat Magazine #2

V Magazine

Francis Kurkdjian, French Armenian, Contemporary Perfumer

.... And I leave Beirut's Krikor Jabotian as the subject of a future post... Stay tuned.

Merry Christmas!

Shnorhavor Sourp Dsenount Anoushigneres!

Illustrator courtesy of my sweet Judy!

Wednesday Whimsy: El Amor Perfecto

2012-01-04T03:07:00.000-08:00

Lola Schnabel's Love Before Intimacy at The Hole Gallery

Photo credit: Moonbird

"Now he discovered that secret from which one never quite recovers, that even in the most perfect love one person loves less profoundly than the other. There may be two equally good, equally gifted, equally beautiful, but there may never be two that love one another equally well."

~Thornton Wilder

In case you're wondering what a Wednesday Whimsy is, see here for how it started.

SeenWJeen (Q&A)

2012-01-02T04:28:00.000-08:00

Kicking off 2012 with a fun new fixture to I Love Garlic Bread, SeenWJeen... An insight into the likes and minds of Lebanese fashion lovers.

Debuting this feature is someone many of us can thank for the clothes we have on our backs as she is one of the premier fashion buyers for BHV, Beirut, and Galeries Lafayette, Dubai. Lynn Issa El Khoury, my lab rat, brings brands such as Claudie Pierlot, Athe by Vanessa Bruno, and Sandro to a store near you. Here, she answers some off-the-cuff questions.

I majored in... Business - Marketing.

My first job was... as an Account Executive at JWT (advertising).

The biggest perk of being a fashion buyer is... Knowing the season's trends a year in advance, meeting different people in the industry from different countries and traveling monthly.

The SS12 show that knocked me off my feet... Moschino's opening was just amazing, inspired from Spanish matadors... Right out of an Almodovar movie.

My style icons are... Agyness Deyn for her rock n' roll style and Alexa Chung for being the "Kate Moss of our generation". I am also very much inspired by countries; my wardrobe was impacted when I visited Cusco a year and a half ago.

Agyness Deyn (Left); Alexa Chung

My latest purchase was... A Dries Van Noten burgundy jacket with velvet sleeves bought at the "Fashion for a Cause" Christmas sale.

I dress to impress... No one I guess. Maybe myself.

I splurge on... DVDs and fashion books.

You will NEVER see me wearing... UGGS!

My favorite blogs are... The Sartorialist, Paris vs New York, and The Man Repeller.

A perfect next holiday would be... Visiting the Great Barrier Reef in Australia with my Aussie friends.

The most daring thing I've ever worn is... A feather as a head piece to a friend's wedding.

My sports regimen is... Working out twice a week and dancing Tango.

My New Year's resolution is... I usually don't do New Year's resolutions because I never stick to them. This year I want to visit Japan and go back to Buenos Aires.

The best place to shop for holiday presents in Beirut is... BHV of course :)

My go-to restaurant in the City is... Casablanca for its pepper grilled calamaris.

My favorite nighttime hangout in Beirut is... Any spontaneous house party with an eclectic crowd where I can meet new people.

The best feeling in the world is... Laughing till you're screaming and your stomach hurts/adrenaline rush.

Iphone or Blackberry? I just switched to iphone!

Currently on my play-list...

"I'd Rather Dance With You" by Kings of Convenience

"I Want You" by Bob Dylan

"Vesuvius" by Sufjan Stevens

"Bohemian Rhapsody" covered by The Flaming Lips

"The Boy with the Arab Strap" by Belle and Sebastian

"Im bimbililila7" by Mashrou3 Leila

Check out Lynn's Tumblr.

Happy Two Thousand 'n' Twelve

2011-12-31T11:03:00.000-08:00

Mary Katrantzou SS12

Here's to a colorful new year full of blossoming flower fields and sweet surprises!

The Great Gatsby (2012)

2011-12-30T14:15:00.000-08:00

Director Baz Luhrmann's adaptation of Fitzgerald's classic novel, "The Great Gatsby", started filming this September, in Australia, and is scheduled to be released, in 3D, on Christmas Day 2012.

Oh Leo!

The story unfolds in Long Island's North Shore and in New York during the summer of 1922, which brings to life the roaring twenty's ritzy vintage costumes designed by Catherine Martin*.

Tiffany & Co. has collaborated with the production team to archive and recreate the opulent jewelry, as well as, the china and sterling silver flatware that portray affluence of the post-WWI pre-Depression Jazz Era.

The well-groomed and well-bred...

I remain skeptical as to how astutely Luhrmann, who has previously worked with DiCaprio in the 1996 remake of Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet", will translate great literature, once again, from the written to the motion, adding this time the 3D element.

FYI...

*Luhrmann's wife who has also worked with him on Moulin Rouge and Romeo and Juliet '96.

Wednesday Whimsy: "Food for Thought"

2011-12-28T05:35:00.000-08:00

Lara Stone for Vogue Italia March 2010

One evening an old Cherokee chief told his grandson about a battle that goes on inside people. He said, "My son, the battle is between two wolves inside of us all.

One is EVIL - He is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego.

The other is GOOD - He is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion, and faith."

The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather, "Which wolf wins?"

The old chief simply replied, "The one you feed."

Quote courtesy of Red † Oleander

Walking in the Air

2011-12-24T11:14:00.000-08:00

It's almost as if I can reach out and touch the spirit of Christmas through Walking in the Air, a beautiful song from my childhood and maybe yours. The 80's rocked \m/

Merry Christmas everyone! Hug your loved ones real hard xx

Who Wish What

2011-12-23T12:50:00.000-08:00

Hoda

"My look is attainable. Women can look like Audrey Hepburn by flipping out their hair, buying the large sunglasses, and the little sleeveless dresses." ~Audrey Hepburn

Minimal Baroque Sunglasses by Prada

Jessica

"To send a letter is a good way to go somewhere without moving anything but your heart."~Phyllis Theroux

A hand-written letter...

Judy

"A concert is not a live rendition of our album. It's a theatrical event." ~Freddie Mercury

Florence and The machine Concert Tickets

Mouna

"I miss New York. I still love how people talk to you on the street- just assault you and tell you what they think of your jacket." ~Madonna

Leather Jacket by Acne

Olivia

"I like Cinderella, I really do. She has a good work ethic. I appreciate a good, hardworking gal. And she likes shoes. The fairy tale is all about the shoe at the end, and I'm a big shoe girl." ~Amy Adams

Coraline Velvet Wedge by Messeca

Rhea

"April in Paris, chestnuts in blossom, holiday tables under the trees." ~E. Y. Harburg

A trip to Paris...

Sirine

"She had the loaded handbag of someone who camps out and seldom goes home, or who imagines life must be full of emergencies." ~Mavis Gallant

Tonal Raffia Bowling Bag by Burberry Prorsum

Zehar

"I'm not really a fashion designer. I just love clothes. I've never been to design school. I can't sketch. I can't cut patterns and things. I can shorten things. I can make a dress out of a scarf." ~Kate Moss

Skull Print Scarf by Alexander McQueen

...But what we really want, wrapped under our Christmas tree, is this:

Psssst... Judy.. Thanks for the photoshop :)

Wednesday Whimsy: To Alienate

2011-12-21T04:30:00.000-08:00

This picture was taken some time ago by Tommy Ton of jakandjil.com during Paris Fashion Week and posted under the title, "Paths Crossed". It is one of those shots so well taken that I could almost visually see the virtual "paths" in question.

... And it brings a whole lot of existentialism out of me. What are strangers? In a world highly publicized for its interconnectedness, why do we walk past each other oblivious to one another? Physically so close, yet worlds apart... Does the anonymity of big cities breed isolation? Why do dogs interact whenever they cross each other on the street? Is it a matter of quantity? Is it numerically down to "we are too many"?

We form circles of trust around us through friends and family and acquainting ourselves with strangers becomes just a luxury. On a stranded island, there are no strangers. So is it an egotistical matter of "need"?

Get a job, Laura (me).

Floral Madness

2011-12-20T05:44:00.000-08:00

The strikingly floral print blazer from Zara (right) is an emulation of the floral biker jacket from Céline's resort collection, but instead of being a bajillion dinero-s, it's a refreshingly affordable 199,000 LBP. This vivid blazer could be worn with clashing prints and mis-matched colors for an over-the-top statement. Alternatively, it could be used to spiff up a simple buttoned-up white shirt. You want one?

White Shoe Royalty

2011-12-17T05:31:00.001-08:00

Stella McCartney

We've been staring at each other for hours... with intermission of course. I'm all yours but you'll never be mine because "broke is the new black" and I'm unemployed. Zara? Shall we?

If I were to define the word 'sleek' in a fashion dictionary, I would set up a picture of the white Stella McCartney patent loafers above. Androgyny, also known as 'boy meets girl', is substituted in this instance by 'man meets bride'. Chic, statement-y, and versatile, these shoes can be worn with tailored-cropped pants for a masculine finish, or an oversized knit dress (maybe in white) for an effortless cool. So many possibilities...

A New Balance

2011-12-16T04:20:00.000-08:00

I recently collaborated with New Balance team Lebanon to help them set up a blog for New Balance, Lebanon. Though I won't be running the blog, thanks to their generosity, I will be running around town in my gifted New Balance kicks! When it comes to running shoes, I like to go for the classic white with a retro feel. It takes me back to my childhood and my parent's tennis shoes from the late 80's. And that, is nostalgically heart-warming.

To treat yourself to a pair of trendy and ultra comfy New Balance sneakers you deserve, visit any Aizone branch. You can also check out their blog at www.newbalancelebanon.blogspot.com and 'like' their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/NB.LEBANON

PS The evident damage on the Aishti bag is courtesy of Beirut's heavy November rain. But fret not, besides the usual valet, Aishti Downtown offers an umbrella service on rainy days. Talk about luxury... Ella ella eh eh..

Pyjama-rama

2011-12-13T12:17:00.000-08:00

Nan Pants by Piamita

So, I know it's winter, let alone CHRISTMAS but I saw these pants and thought, "I wouldn't mind wearing my PJ's everyday, for the rest of my life."

Just this past summer in Los Angeles, I pulled an "American" and went out in public in my actual flamingo printed PJs. My 7 year-old cousin faked being sick one morning, so his mom waved her finger and said, "If you're sick, you stay in bed". When he figured out that would deter his plan of spending the day with his Xbox, he stopped "being sick" and decided school was cool. Thinking it would be a one stop drop, I tagged along in my PJs, but on the trip back, got a sudden hankering for some donuts. I dipped into a crowded donut shop, bought a dozen glazed beauties, and grabbed a mega million lottery ticket. No luck of course, or I'd be writing this from under a coconut palm tree in the Maldives now.

I donned a similar pair of the pictured pant (above) courtesy of Zara. Red, light, and breezy, they were my summer go to's. However, the amount of times I wore them was near equal to the amount of quaint commentary I got about them. I recall on my flight from SF to LA, airport security had an opinion to share as well- literal FASHION POLICE. Even one night in NY, sitting on a buddy's couch, a friend of his walks in and asks if we were going to hit the town. Before I got a chance to respond, she quipped: "Oh, wait, never mind! You're already in your PJs!"

Layers

2011-12-12T08:19:00.000-08:00

I was recently in Zara Souks when a friend tried on the seemingly cool printed poncho above. Having buckled it all up in the middle like a classical poncho, we both looked at it and said: "NO". It didn't flatter. Now that I see how this woman admirably works out the same piece, clashing unusual patterns together in a beautiful way, topped off with her cool fringe, this poncho suddenly becomes a catch.

Everyday, thanks to cyberspace, I continue to be inspired by women on the streets, all over the world.

Comme Un Garçon: L'Officiel Levant December '11

2011-12-07T04:56:00.000-08:00

Paulina Wyka, for L'Officiel Levant December '11, co-styled by Mouna Harati and Nena Bizri; photographed by Martin Stoebich.

Beirut Bambi: Big Things Poppin'

2011-12-05T13:03:00.000-08:00

This past Sunday, I attended Our {very muscular} Man in Beirut's hugely successful book signing at the darkly elegant, Secteur 75, where I got a taste of what's popping up in that hotspot next weekend. My lovely friend, Judy Rizk, has embarked on an entrepreneurial adventure launching what she deems "Just Another Pop Up Store" only it's far from that. Hand selected styles from her keen fashion sense, she's bringing jewelry and accessories hot off the streets of New york and Paris and into Secteur 75 where you can all fawn over one of a kind, exclusive pieces. An eclectic collection of bracelets, necklaces, rings, clutches and scarves that are sure to speak to the different dimensions of every woman... There's something for everyone. And they all come just in time for the 'holidaze'! So grab your gift list and make it a date this coming weekend. My camera will also be there, waiting to meet you!

Here's a preview...

Dates:

Saturday, 10th December 2 pm till 7 pm

Sunday, 11th December 3 pm till 9 pm

Place:

Secteur 75, Mar Mikhael Street, facing the Vendome stairs

For more info, call + 961 3 436 280

Wednesday Whimsy: ILGB ♥ Stine Goya

2011-12-01T14:36:00.000-08:00

Hanneli Mustaparta in a FW11 sweater by Danish designer & label, Stine Goya.

Stine Goya SS12 Sunglasses

CapToeShoes

2011-11-30T00:44:00.000-08:00

Caroline Sling Back Heel by Alexander Wang

I first discovered these Alexander Wang cap-toe shoes (above) on Namibian model, Behati Prinsloo, whom I've been crushing on for a while now. Don't you just LOVE her dress-heel combo?! Soon after, I realized I wasn't the only one smitten with those kittens. The girls at Because I'm Addicted and Stylehive even took it a few steps further and DIY-ed their own cap-toe boots. Check it out.

Since I don't trust my clumsy hands with a new pair of shoes, I might consider trying this on an old pair of Zara pumps. It'll most likely be a rainy winter's day when I do. All I'll need is tape, acrylic or leather paint, a brush, and a clear glossy finish spray. Sounds like a plan! Yaaay!

Last Week. According to my iPhone Photos.

2011-11-28T09:26:00.000-08:00

Some morning Kanafeh from L'Abeille d'Or (Yum-Me)

A lot of sea-view blogging

A noble charity event by Himaya at Music Hall

Day-time traffic in Gemmayzeh

California dreaming (Courtesy of Olivia Red)

A beautiful Thanksgiving dinner

Let's see what the new week brings!

Wednesday Whimsy

2011-11-23T11:25:00.000-08:00

"There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man."

~Winston CHURCHILL

Quote courtesy of www.redoleander.tumblr.com

i love garlic bread

Wednesday Whimsy: PFW Inspo

A Panther's Great Odyssey

The Original Kate

Wednesday Whimsy: MFW Inspo

No Cat in this Hat

It's a Bittersweet Symphony

Fall 2012 NYFW in Backstage Motion

Wednesday Whimsy: LFW Inspo

iluvgb X Hangout

Spring '12 Clones

Wednesday Whimsy: NYFW Inspo

SeenWJeen #3

Ulyana Sergeenko

Mary K Collaborates

Illuminate Her Senses

An Illusion

Wednesday Whimsy

Back to the Future

Pearls Make Happy Girls

Sitting on my Desktop

Wednesday Whimsy

Drizzle Darling

Blue Dreams

Save the Cheerleader, Save the World!

SeenWJeen #2

Wednesday Whimsy

Spotted Gossiping

Un Peu Risque

Shadow of the night: A Magazine Dec'11/Jan'12

Beirut Bambi: Decade Decadence

Wednesday Whimsy: "Like their supposed to, for me-"

Shourouk's Jewels

Spring* Pastels and Summer* Palates

Beirut Bambi: 6:05. Tick, Tock, Tick.

All Lacquered Up

Wednesday Whimsy

"Not Your Grandma's Doily"

Put An I.A.N. On It

Wednesday Whimsy: El Amor Perfecto

SeenWJeen (Q&A)

Happy Two Thousand 'n' Twelve

The Great Gatsby (2012)

Wednesday Whimsy: "Food for Thought"

Walking in the Air

Who Wish What

Wednesday Whimsy: To Alienate

Floral Madness

White Shoe Royalty

A New Balance

Pyjama-rama

Layers

Comme Un Garçon: L'Officiel Levant December '11

Beirut Bambi: Big Things Poppin'

Wednesday Whimsy: ILGB ♥ Stine Goya

Cap*Toe*Shoes

Last Week. According to my iPhone Photos.

Wednesday Whimsy

CapToeShoes