POA STYLE

Spring Love

2011-04-04T22:15:00.001-07:00

Kzeniya Handbags

Check out those spikes!

Beautifully crafted handbags with comfortable handles, PERFECT for everydaywear. Kzeniya is a graduate from St Martins, her brand launched last year. Her designs are both futuristic and innovative. With a range based with ethically sourced leather as well as using holographic prints, if you're looking for a unique handbag, this is it!

Malandrino <3 Lacoste
The new Catherine Malandrino capsule collection for Lacoste is beautiful. Malandrino takes the little crocodile out of its orbit, and the result is perfection.

Go get your crocodile while you still can.

Erdem for H&M?

Rumours are that Erdem may be the next designer to collaborate with H&M, if this is true, will you be lining up for it? I'm so excited I may just set camp outside Hennes now.

American Apparel launches a Denim line

American Apparel has been suffering a lot lately, and they may be filing for bankruptcy soon. However, CEO Dov Charney has announced the launch of a new denim line. If anyone knows the American Apparel range like I do, you will know that they have never done full blown jeans before, only slacks which look and feel like jeans but never in a denim blue. From my experience with the slacks produced by American Apparel, they are an Amazing investment, GOOD QUALITY jeans for around 70 pounds, sounds too good to be true.

Now to round things up, spring is here :)
I'm sure many of you have a Kindle or better yet, an Ipad. It's the perfect weather to sit in the park and read a book (not play angry birds), and what better way to look stylish, protect your Ipad and luxe it up than with the:

Hermès Ipad case.

Happy April, hope you didn't get fooled.

ParisFashionWeek Round Up... News.

2011-03-05T18:22:00.000-08:00

Hello POA Style Followers,
It has been a long week with much to blog about.

- Rumours that LVMH may take over Hermès... Thoughts?

- Galliano is out. Has had a huge amount of press surrounding his obscene comments the past few days, what will happen of him?
Gallianos last show started with a speech from Dior's President and Chief Executive Mr. Sidney Toledano. Attendance to his last show was high as though people wanted to witness the closing of a chapter for Dior.

- Viktor and Rolf PFW A/W 11/12, Inspired by the devil?

- Sonia Rykiel surprises us with her A/W collection.

- The Jean Paul Gaultier collection is STUNNING to say the least.

- My favorite picture from Paris Fashion Week is Lady Gaga modelling for Thierry Mugler.

- Spanish based retailer Hakei has expanded to France! I see big things happening here, keep a close eye on this brand.

- COS STORES will open its doors in Spain.

Thats all for now folks, Keep checking in.

Valentines day

2011-02-10T15:39:00.000-08:00

That special day is coming up where we get to show the person we love just how much we care about them, and what better way of expressing love than showering our loved ones with romantic gifts?

POA Style have some wonderful recommendations for you as always.

The most common gift for women is Jewelry, so lets start with these:

The Infinity Ring by Kismet, available from Kabiri.

This flutter and wow pendant from Links of London is a beautiful twist on the simple heart shape.

Solange Azagury - Partridge have a beautiful selection of modern jewelry, if you want to opt for something different, try the Heart of Gold

or the Bleeding Heart

Instead of getting a simple box of chocolates, why not try the Pink Marc de Champagne Truffles from Charbonel et Walker

This Inamorata Plunge Playsuit from Nichole de Carle is a gift you can both enjoy.

Now a gift for the gentlemen. Try a beautiful Cigar Cutter from S.T. Dupont.

Or perhaps this Ligne 1 Lighter, which is something that can be treasured forever, also from S.T. Dupont.

These Bvlgari Cufflinks made from Gold with a Lapis centre are beautiful and elegant.

If you have time, pick up a Valentines cupcake from the Hummingbird Bakery.

And Finally, here are a few romantic movie titles you may enjoy.

Have a Happy Valentines Day Everyone.

Glam up the street

2011-01-10T21:02:00.000-08:00

Street Style, Think of Basquiat and a Rolex.

So maybe its time to say bye bye Louboutins and stick them in your closet to start with these Taylor says stilettos with a hand painted back as opposed to that red back...

Heard of Year Zero in London yet? They customize your luxury hand bags with whatever you like, graffitti, artsy, funky designs to make that boring L.V. monoprint stand out. Customised, fun, artsy and a bit bling.

For everyday sneakers we prescribe Bikkembergs all the way.

Fall in love with Onitsuka Tiger's everyday wear and bright bright sneakers.

So go go go and have fun with it.

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It's almost Christmas...

2010-12-06T14:59:00.000-08:00

Have you done ALL your shopping?

We want you to end this year with a bang, and sparkle whilst you're at it.This Rococo nail varnish with 24 carat gold flakes will look great when you have that glass of champagne in your hand during the holiday season.
Available at space nk.

Still thinking of gift ideas? For yourself or someone else, Look no further, we have some suggestions...
This Asprey regent wallet made from crocodile in berry is an ultra luxe gift, beautiful, elegant, and a gift I'm sure any lady would be happy to receive.

The monogram plume shawl is as beautiful as the feathers of a peacock, except, it's a Louis Vuitton Shawl, could a girl ask for more this Christmas? I don't think so.

This circus child cowri necklace is a beautiful piece of jewelry, and its proceeds go towards community based circus groups worldwide. Available from Coco de Mer. Read more about circus child here

J4786QZPV9W6 No one makes a candle like Diptyque does, it lasts forever, its smell is concentrated yet perfect. They make wonderful presents, I remember when Tanner Krolle was situated on Sloane Street, they were constantly burning a Diptyque jasmine candle, it was such a beautiful smell it made me want to stay in there for a lot longer than I needed to.

Finally, here is an excellent way to start off the next year, with the Hermès Globetrotter agenda. I know that these days everyone has a blackberry and are so technology driven but there is a slightly different feeling when you say, let me check my agenda and pull out your beautiful orange Hermès agenda and pencil in lunch. J4786QZPV9W6

Thats all for now folks, Happy Shopping.

Dripping in Luxury: Ethan K.

2010-11-14T18:05:00.000-08:00

It's not often that we come across a designer who's pieces take our breath away. Ethan K. jumps to the top of the list in becoming a new obsession.

Using exotic skins such as crocodile and python in a masterful way, his handbags and accessories are truly an art.

It's a funny story how I came to find out about Ethan K. Despite his recent growing success, I was sitting on a terrace with a friend and we asked for the bill, she pulled out a beautiful ostrich leather tan coloured cardholder which is where I almost shrieked, where did you get that? I must know.

It's clear that Ethan has had a huge amount of experience working with exotic skins, and has an extensive background in design . Originating from Singapore, Ethan was raised surrounded by the work of his father who ran a family owned crocodile skins business. He has worked with the exotic skins team in Hèrmes, Prada and Louis Vuitton. As well as studying design at the prestigious London College of Fashion and Central Saint Martins.

And... he does bespoke too...

So, are you drooling yet?

http://www.ethan-k.com/

Getting graphic.

2010-11-09T17:58:00.000-08:00

T-shirts these days don't cut it for me unless they have a bold graphic print on them.

I've been all about statements, bold statements for a while, and I love the fact that if you have something to say, you can wear it, whether it's something as bland as "I <3 Paris" or "Metallica," to prints of photos, movies, art, what you choose to wear and show on your t-shirt reflects your personality.

I'm sure you all remember the hilarious Naomi Campbell T-shirt. Need I say more?

When you're looking for something funny to wear, David and Goliath are playful and have some pretty funny prints on their tees.

When you're looking for graphic art, Carbon Tee's Couture range has graphic art prints that are organically printed on different styles of tee shirts. The company source environmentally friendly made t-shirts and combine their own prints using organic water-based dyes.

Music is a funny thing, we all love our own tastes and it seems a lot of us want to share that love with others. I personally collect Iggy Pop T shirts, Zadig and Voltaire did one last season, but they are constantly coming up with rock infused t-shirts with a twist. Its different to the kind you pick up around Camden town. Of course there is also urban outfitters.

Mick T shirt Zadig and Voltaire...

Urban Outfitters Tee

Super superficial has prints that make me smile, and it's very hard to make me smile, I'm a pouter, trust. Victoria Bekham ain't got nothing on me.

Maybe that's what you want, A t-shirt, or a sweatshirt that will make people smile when you walk down the street?

Lazy Oaf have some very sweet designs, I am especially fond of their drawing club collection.

Last but not least, American Apparel and its "Legalize Gay" t shirts encouraging the legalization of gay marriage, and "Legalize L.A." t shirts supporting the undocumented immigrants in L.A. and immigration reform.

Ivy League...

2010-10-27T14:53:00.000-07:00

I have witnessed, wherever I have lived, that the way you dress, not only defines you, but gives others a stark impression on who you are and who you want to be.

There is a certain look. Which Americans will call the Prep look, khaki Burberry pants, a tucked in Ralph Lauren striped shirt or a Lacoste Polo shirt with a sweater draped around your shoulders and tied at the front and either Tods or Loafers. You know who I'm talking about right? Those guys you see at the Polo Club. The guys you bump into outside Scotts in Mayfair, well, sometimes they're wearing mustard coloured cords and they call that the English country look...

The term to define the person wearing this style of clothing shifted from the word "Prep" to other slightly less eloquent terms which I will not specify as I am a lady.

It seems to me that some form of clarification is needed. This 'Prep' can look rather dashing when pulled off. There is a very similar category that goes right next to it which does exist and classifies as a not so great and tacky look.
Take this as a do's and don'ts of how to successfully achieve the Prep look with a few other brands to consider than the standard Ralph Lauren, Lacoste, Hackett...

What to do...

- It's not all about the big pony. It's about coloring. What will go with your whole outfit and what will suit your coloring. If you're very pale and know that Orange isn't your color, now isn't the time to start.

- A good blazer is an investment.

- Mix it up, experiment, but check yourself out in a full length mirror before stepping out, keep to a neutral palette.

- You have my blessing to go and buy some vintage Cutler and Gross reading glasses if applicable to you.

What NOT to do...

- No popped collars. Way to ruin a good shirt and a brand name.

- No over logo-ing.

- Try and make sure your hair looks decent, not like you're a party boy that just came back from Cyprus.

- There is no point in achieving this look if you are going to ruin them with Nike's.

The other day I fell in love with a grey Blazer from La Martina. For a while, not just me, but my entire family have been attracted to the Argentine Polo brand. http://www.lamartina.com/
This wonderful brand is of course sold in Harrods.

Ede and Ravenscroft, situated on Savile Row and on Chancery Lance hold three Royal Warrants, they carry a small but good selection of country casuals, cords, sweaters, accessories p.s. They also bespoke. http://shop.edeandravenscroft.co.uk

Last but not in any way the least, my new obsession has been the Kitsuné shop. I have already purchased one item from there and I will be buying a lot more.
This season's look of for the Kitsuné boutique is Ivy League, which has that draws influences from the prep look and the back to school fall feel. Its sleek its clean and if I were going back to school I would want the entire season's collection to be my wardrobe.
http://shop.kitsune.fr/

Sigh, I want everything from that site. :(

So here it is, or a well cut shirt, with a good blazer, that is worn with those burberry khakis you've had forever (or alternative Massimo Dutti ones.) and loafers = prep.
If you use the same formula and wear a Polo shirt instead with corduroy trousers, you'll have a Casual look.

And with that I leave you to go and people watch in St. Johns Wood.

Designer Profile: Jean-Charles de Castelbajac

2010-10-01T14:32:00.000-07:00

JC/DC is the Andy Warhol of the fashion industry. There is no doubt about the POP factor he's maintained over the years. I absolutely adore everything by him.

Now that the store in London's Conduit street has closed down, it was one my favorite spaces. Two floors of heaven, the launch of the new online store is something to celebrate http://jcdcstore.com/, this is good news for people across Europe.

I remember my first love experience with Castelbajac, a yellow sequined dress on a mannequin with a big smiley face. I turned to my best friend and said "I could get married in that." Then of course French singer Yelle was seen in that dress and it was featured in Ugly Betty, alongside with a lot of other JC/DC dresses...

I started to take all my friends to the JC/DC store and one friend of mine was very close to buying the credit card dress, but was afraid that she would give the wrong impression...

Castelbajac never ceases to impress, be it with Mickey Mouse shoes or with a stunning sequined dress. The homewear is also quite interesting, rugs, plates with sayings and colorful graphic designs on them.

So now one of our favorites is available online and you can own a playful fun JC/DC item too in no time...

Check out this seasons South Park collection.

Children at heart.

2010-09-30T09:45:00.000-07:00

The trend for wearing a print that represents a favorite childhood character on clothing has been around for a while, but never has it been more apparent than now, this growing trend allows us to indulge in those old school favorite characters that once fascinated and comforted us. Jean-Charles de Castelbajac has been featuring different Disney characters in his clothing for a while, every season with a sequin dress, Mickey mouse, Donald duck, Bambi, with some beautiful Bambi shoes to go with, and this season the brand is carrying prints of South Park characters.

Oysho, the lingerie, nightwear store owned by the Inditex group launched a nightwear range this season with words and pictures of the "Le Petit Prince," My favorite item were a pair of slippers with writing and tiny crystals on them, only for 17 eur.

Many stores carry Tee shirts with prints that bring back that blast from the past, however its not always something that you fully relate to. Hell, I'd probably get incredibly excited and pay extortionate amounts of money over anything Bambi related or any memorabilia that is Archie comic related.

Remember These Guys?

A few seasons ago, Zara's teenage brand TRF had a small Hannah Barbera collaboration of T-shirts and within that were a range of T-shirts with prints of the Jetsons.

The T shirt brand Junk food has also produced T shirts with Disney Characters on them, as well as the Little Miss series...
Their print have a sexy fit and a worn look.

Ok so maybe we had to abandon our soft toys... There is no reason why we cannot still proudly display our love for Superman, Wonderwoman, Snow White or even Pocahontas...

Our London Choices...

2010-09-28T13:20:00.000-07:00

The POA Style team have also extensively covered London Fashion Week and here are our Fashion Picks for the season...

Burberry Prorsum

Christopher Kane

Matthew Williamson

Paul Smith

Jonathan Saunders

Jonathan Saunders

Giles Deacon

Giles Deacon

Acne

David Koma

David Koma

David Koma

Mary Katranzou

Mary Katranzou

Osman

Emilio de la Morena

September is the busiest month of all!

2010-09-28T03:57:00.000-07:00

And we have it covered!

Check out POA Style's fashion picks for this season from New York's Mercedes Benz Fashion Week.

Marc Jacobs

Rodarte

Proenza Schouler

Dereck Lam

Vera Wang

VPL

Jason Wu

Calvin Klein

Loris Doran

Loris Doran

Thank you all!

2010-09-28T03:37:00.000-07:00

First of all a big thank you to all of those who attended the POA Style Fashion event at Joseph during London's Fashion Night out.
Emanuele D'Angelo covered the event on the livincool site http://www.livincool.com/eventi/vogues-fashion-night-out-london-8th-september-2010 with some fantastic pictures of the event...

So once again, thank you for the wonderful turnout, and to everyone for making it possible.

POA STYLE EVENT!

2010-09-05T15:00:00.000-07:00

This Wednesday 8th of September from 7pm to 10pm at Joseph on 23 Old Bond Street POA Style will be holding a styling event during London's Fashion night out.

It's going to be a FANTASTIC event...

-A must add to your fashion night out! A taster of POA- Style in Joseph, a store filled with a wonderful selection of clothing.

-There will also be music,
Live acoustic acts by: CHARLI XCX & SEYE
DJS: DJS:
VALENTINE FILLOL-CORDIER
ELLIE SHEPHERD
SARA GILMOUR
BEN BRIDGEWATER
ADWOA ABOAH
ASSISI JACKSON
ESME HODSOLL

Look forward to these brands: BALMAIN, MARY KATRANTZOU, GOLDEN GOOSE, RICK OWENS,
LGB, 3.1 PHILLIP LIM, IF SIX WAS NINE, ISABEL MARANT,
HANNI Y, PROENZA SCHOULER, FORTE FORTE,
ALEXANDER WANG, ALC, MISSONI, RIKA, RAQUEL ALLEGRA,
BOY BAND OF OUTSIDERS, GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI, VPL, GIANVITO ROSSI

MENS
JOSEPH OWN LABEL
DESIGNERS:
DIOR HOMME, NEIL BARRETT
FIORENTINI + BAKER, GOLDEN GOOSE
7 FOR ALL MANKIND

-An opportunity to browse the store with Champagne and Canapés provided!
Ask for Christopher Davies or Ashumi Sanghvi of POA-Style on arrival.

Does this get any better? POA-Style+Joseph+Vogue=Win!

Check out our website...
http://www.poa-style.co.uk/
Find us on the Fashion night out Website and add our event to your night out!
http://fashions-night-out.vogue.co.uk/

We'd love to see your sexy faces there so save the date!

Over the Rainbow and Beyond the Valley

2010-09-03T16:51:00.000-07:00

http://www.beyondthevalleystore.com/
I have loved Beyond the Valley for years, I kept walking in the store many times and lurking around the odd selection of merchandise every time I was around Carnaby street.

I always thought that my first purchase from Beyond the Valley would be something along the lines of a wooden deer shaped brooch or a Zoe and Morgan pendant, but just as it happens my first purchase turned out to be something quite different.
I bought a pair of knitted ¾ leggings from the bottom of the box in during their annual sample sale for the shamefully cheap price of 5 pounds. I lived in those leggings for around two weeks untill I decided to go back and check everything out again.

Beyond the Valley is one of those stores which is full of curiosities, like exploring through someone's attic and finding random items that slot into your life without you even knowing it.

On my last trip there I came across some wedge shoes. The pony skin wedge shoes by finsk, I urged my friend to try them on and they look amazing, I mean absolutely fabulosos, they're really something.

Beyond the Valley always seem to have a wonderful selection of dresses. The Beyond the Valley graphic prints dresses and tees are instantly recognizable and won me over very fast. I'm very picky you see.

Their selection is varied however, some items are slightly too quirky for my liking, for example, the Hamburger bag by Hannah Havana.

I would probably buy it one day and categorize it in my wardrobe under the section "F.U. I'm young and if I wear this with conviction I think I can get away with it."

I love Beyond the Valley, it rates as being one of my favourite stores in Londontown, it is everything one would ask for in one space, offbeat, quirky, alive, cosy, sweet and friendly. Definitely worth a visit.

The Nose Post

2010-08-09T05:30:00.000-07:00

Finding the perfect fragrance for you can take years, some people never do and are constantly getting bored by the ones they have and lead a life of perfume promiscuity.
I have personal favorites and a signature.

I also do very much like to familiarize myself with everything there is on the shelf, even if I am not always a citrus person for example, I will still be curious to smell it all.

Now, If you want to buy a new fragrance and are going out with the intention of doing so. On the day, remember to not apply any perfume beforehand. Every perfume sits differently on different peoples skin when it blends with their body chemistry, some may suit you, some may not, all of them will smell the same on a piece of cardboard.

When trying a new fragrance, try it out on a card first, if it pleases you, apply it on your skin and wait a few seconds for the alcohol to dry down then whiff away. I would suggest you wait around 30 minutes, walk around and smell it again to see what the fragrance has transformed into. If you are convinced, then and only then should you make the purchase.

I'm a beleiver of independant perfume houses but sometimes I will make an exception.

Make way and open up your mind for these bad boys I'm going to write about:

So Im going to start with L'Artisan Parfumeur. An independant french perfume house that understand perfume as an art.
- Dzing, by l'artisan parfumeur took me years to find but it is me. I live and breathe it and everyone recognizes it as me as I am incredibly guilty of dousing myself in litres of the potion.
It is important to remember, there can be so many perfumes you find incredibly pleasant but don't match your personality.
Dzings little logo is a lady riding a tiger. Check, totally me.
The idea behind it was to capture the chaos of a circus, yet there is a sweetness to it.
There are leather, ink and cotton candy notes to start off with and later dries down to a strange vanilla note.

Safran Troublant is another fragrance by L'artisan parfumeur. I hadn't heard of it until a friend of mine had purchased it recently and I was immediately interested when I heard the word saffron in it. I asked her to wear it and meet me aswell as researching it thoroughly (I'm a geek like that.) The result was wonderful. Safran troublant is an oriental and soft floral scent, it draws you in and transports you to Morocco's spice market. You have notes of saffron, fresh red roses, honey, vanilla in this beautiful fragrance, and it will make you feel just that much more feminine.

Kisu by Tann Rokka is not for everyone, but as I am demonstrating my favorites and variety, this one is a woody scent. In fact I would call it the Queen of all chypre scents as you have notes of cedar, patchouli, ylang ylang and musk. It is incredibly deep and sensual and has an oriental feel to it.

Etat libre d'Oranger are just the enfants terribles of perfumes. With their incredibly provocative, controversial, naughty, and lets say interesting concoctions they have gained a lot of attention. When I first heard of this brand I went searching for it in Harvey Nichols in London and spent a good 15 minutes looking for it with no avail, when I finally asked a sales assistant I saw that the bottles had been turned around as the packaging and the labels on them were too offensive.
Ok so E.L.D.O. may have very sexual themes, but their results are still human, interesting, and for the curious people out there its always an option.
Side note: Rossy de Palma and Tilda Swinton have done collaborations with the perfume brand.

Vierges et Toreros by Etat Libre d'Oranger
Why this one? Because it contains leather notes AND floral notes. It is a man, a bullfighter, and a sweet virgin, in one scent. Its beautifully unisex. From the range, I choose this one.

Fleurs d'Oranger by Serge Lutens.
Sometimes I wish I were a different person so this would match my personality. This orange blossom fragrance isn't like every other one you find. I haven't found any other one that compares, nor will anyone ever. This one echoes the south of spain yet has a strange note which makes it what it is. Cumin. Every other orange blossom perfume I have smelled lack the warmth that this one has, making them feel sterile compared to this one with cumin. I see this as a wedding fragrance, its absolute happiness.

Fracas by Robert Piguet made a huge comeback a while ago, Marilyn Monroe used to wear it. Speaking of body chemistry, I use my father as a guinea pig sometimes, testing nail varnish on him and perfume too, Fracas smells so good on him and like cleaning products on me. It is a bottle of white flowers and I will not deny how instantly recognizable it is. Most women who use this do end up feeling like a million dollars. I'm not here to sell you Fracas though, I'm here to talk to you about her leather wearing, chainsmoking sister, Bandit. If Fracas was Monroe, Bandit is Bardot. I used Bandit before I knew about Dzing. How to describe it? Leather and bunch of flowers. Hard and soft.

1000 by Jean Patou is up there at the top of the perfumes list. It is a classic, along with Joy. A green floral fragrance. It really does feel like 1000 flowers in a bottle.

I discovered Memo perfumes years ago, I tried on one of their fragrances called Lalibela, a sweet and curious fragrance that had me thinking about it for days. With notes of orchid, coconut, rose, peony, jasmine and patchouli, its magical.
The concept of this perfume house is to capture the feel of a certain place.
Another fragrance they have called Sundance really did make me laugh. I don't know if it was just me, but I have tried it many times and the opening notes are those of a very green illegal plant you find at lots of festivals. I am not sure if this was intentional or not, however it does work well with a name such as Sundance. Thankfully the marijuana opening notes dry down very fast and you're left with pear, tuberose and pimento.

Memo Perfumes are hard to come by unless you live in Paris. Here is the website. http://mymemo.com/

The House of Creed are best known for their Love in White and Love in Black perfumes. Aqua Fiorentina is their fruitiest fragrance. It is lemon trees in Italy. It is the hottest day in summer.

My recent discovery has been Narcotic Venus by Nasomatto. The name really does do the fragrance justice. It does have a sleepy overpowering quality to it, lots of tuberose, hyacinth and jasmine too. This scent is amazingly sexy and beautiful. If you're a perfume lover I suggest you check this one out, it is haunting, mesmerizing. A new favorite.

An unusual fragrance for men, which I personally really love is Shaal Nur by Etro. Yes it does smell slightly Middle Eastern/ Oriental, No it does not smell like Oud. I always say it smells like Johnson and Johnsons baby powder and Lemon with some spices. I know it sounds strange but it really is wonderful, and different.

Acqua Di Genova, you can't get more vintage than 1853. Cologne water that is still being produced and sold under the same name. A tradional cologne that many men would appreciate.

The Importance of Luxury Watches.

2010-08-04T12:23:00.000-07:00

(I have recurring dreams of this watch. Some women dream of making a wonderful home, finding a man, Johnny Depp, I dream of the Jules Audemars Chrono Tourbillon.)

You’re either a believer or you’re not. Many people believe that it is ridiculous to spend more than a few hundred

£ or that even on a timepiece. First one must understand the concept of luxury, why one would want to invest in a Breitling as opposed to a Swatch.

Once you know about luxury watches they are aspirational, models are recognizable and there is the envy factor built in, isn’t there?

A luxury watch goes beyond being a miserable timepiece with its complications that their customers dropping platinum credit cards really don’t care about, to being a statement.

This statement is a definition of character by the wearer, after a week of wearing a luxury watch, i can swear on the sweetest puppy’s life, it will feel like you have phantom limb syndrome as soon as you take it off for too long. It becomes you, a relationship is formed. Confidence is arisen. You walk into stores dressed like a hobo but you’re still wearing a big fat Parmigiani Fleurier and that intimidating factor that sales staff once gave out flies out the window. You know who owns whom, even if you have no money left in the bank.

Diamonds don’t make a watch, its the monster machinery that makes it beautiful. The watch in itself is like a piece of jewelry, for men, who don’t have pearls or diamonds, luxury watches is their excuse to indulge themselves.

I personally believe that women should keep their watches simple aswell, diamonds are for jewelry and not to be mixed with watches, I have a preference for mens chronograph watches, and I joke in a snobbish manner “anything less than a chrono is to wear when you clean the house,” but if Rafa Nadal can wear the 500,000 Richard Mille on the court, well to hell with it. I deserve to wear a Chrono when i do my chores damn it! Or I’ll hire people to do everything for me of course.

Some of the most beautiful watches I have seen are from Audemars Piguet, especially the Jules Audemars collection. Most people go for the royal oak, which is a brick of a watch but stunning, except for the very sporty looking carbon one.

Hublot is a brand where i will make an exception when it comes to mixing diamonds with timepieces as they do it oh so tastefully for women and the end result is classy bling, just don’t get robbed.

If you’re wearing a Blancpain, it doesn’t need to be a chrono. its a Blancpain.

I’m adding in Piaget, I feel they make beautiful luxury watches, however they don’t feel like everyday ones. Occasional use, perhaps, If you’re thinking of expanding your party selection and you can afford it, please, go for it!

Beautiful is beautiful forever...

2010-08-01T04:52:00.000-07:00

How to keep perfect from head to toe? Its tough... but sue me, I believe being a lady and all the cosmetics that come with it is fun.
The painful waxing... is not.

I have some wonderful products and brands to share with you P.O.A. style followers.
Magic, and i mean magic. No gimmick, from the dead sea. Ahava purifying mud mask, I have tried and tested on various occasions have reduced red up and coming horrifying scary looking marks to nothing. Apply the mask, wait a couple of minutes, and go to bed, and the next day, visible improvement.

I don't know what dead sea minerals this stuff has but its definately worth keeping around.
You may also want to try the Mineral hand cream, quickly absorbant and smells so good you'll look like a weirdo on the metro constantly sniffing the back of your hands.

Good news if you're into the brand, the store in Monmouth street do beauty treatments too, book well in advance!
http://www.ahava.co.uk/

The fish spa has come to London. Dip your feet into a tank full of toothless fish and let them eat away at your dead skin. The result apparently is: Softer healthier skin, a fish pedicure!

Personally, I was interested in this idea years ago when I first heard about it, and it wasn't available in Europe and the laws hadn't been passed because it had been deemed unhygeinic, however a very good friend of mine had gone to a fish spa in Singapore and mentioned that they were obviously much more generous with the amount of fish over there and it was a proper pedicure.
My advice, try anywhere in Asia for the fish spa, but if you just want the experience you do have these options:
http://www.aquasheko.co.uk/
http://wondafish.com/

Oh shampoo, my favorite topic, and I could rave about my favorite shampoo for hours. Let me start by saying this, shampooing is one of the few luxuries I believe to have in my life. Others would be Sleeping well with an eye mask till 12 if I'm lucky. Eating good food. Spending 10 minutes massaging a luxury shampoo into my hair whilst thinking of nothing at all and singing makes me HAPPY.
I do take my shampoo very seriously. I can ONLY use a luxury shampoo and there is only one brand that make luxury haircare.
http://www.alternauk.com/
Alterna are completely sulphate free.
Sulphate is harsh and shouldn't even be used on scalps. Most shampoos in drugstores contain sodium laureth sulphate because that is what makes shampoo lather up. In many stores such as planet organic and whole foods you may find other alternatives that are also sulphate free, such as avalon organics, Dr.Bronners magic soap (is primarily used as soap but can also be used as a shampoo. I highly recommend the Dr. Bronners Rose soap to use for washing clothes, add some to your laundry and your clothes come out smelling divine.)

However, these shampoos aren't luxury. Alterna uses Enzymotherapy, adding essential vitamins to each product so the hair can easily absorb the properties.
I personally recommend the Caviar Anti Aging Moisture Shampoo.

If you're really luxe...
Go for the limited edition White Truffle luxury shampoo and conditioner.

Now I'm going to disclose a secret. The deep conditioner that you never knew you needed.

Terax.
From what I know, Terax was a little, not very well known Italian haircare company that got big through the rave of celebrities and was later bought out by an american company.
Once a week leave in for about Ten minutes, read this blog, wash out.

Now, I just wanted to blog about this spa I just read about, although now that I've
actually researched it, It's been around for a while.
Ada Barak's Carnivorous Snake farm in Northern Israel.

Getting massaged by snakes?
Will this trend spread like the fish spa?
Sounds weird but kinda sexy, lets hope that the asp that killed Cleopatra isn't lurking around in there.
Here's a video I found related to it from the Time website http://www.time.com/time/video/player/0,32068,1815811898_0,00.html

Travel Pretty

2010-07-28T12:59:00.000-07:00

August is the official holiday month. Get started with getting your luggage from Globe Trotter...
http://www.globe-trotterltd.com/
Absolutely beautiful. The safari collection is magnificent.

Now, need shades? Of course you do. Try these Chanel ones with jeans for casual wear...
http://www.chanel.com/

For the glamming it up by the pool, try Roisin Murphy's collaboration with Linda Farrow. http://www.lindafarrow.co.uk/

Not Bling enough? Get to Marcus and if you don't own it already, this summer Hublots Tutti Frutti Big Bang.
http://www.marcuswatches.co.uk/

What else is beautifully pink and needs to be packed for holiday? The Hermès dip dye Astrologie scarf.
http://www.hermes.com/

We're not into the stripes unless they're Jean Paul Gaultier...
So, lets try some vintage polka dots this august.

And now, ok, they may not be your taste, but I am absolutely obsessed with these...
Opening ceremony shoeboots in leopard print.

Someone get them out of my dreams and off of this blog and onto my feet!

Be naturally beautiful this summer, get your teeth pearly white with swiss smile http://www.swiss-smile.co.uk/

Use SPF... How do women like Dita Von Teese and Mary Louise Parker look so good at their age?

They protect their skin.
Try Heliocare 50 for the face as well as an SPF for the rest of the body!
http://www.heliocare.com/

Don't forget your ipod and the best of by Nouvelle Vague

And finally, smell fresh and lovely with Comptoir Sud Pacifique's Eaux de Voyage. A selection of beautiful smelling perfume ranges, try
Aloha Tiaré, or any of the vanilla based ones.
http://www.comptoir-sud-pacifique.com/

Why the entire world should be cast under Chloë Sevigny’s spell.

2010-07-26T06:17:00.000-07:00

Many people say Chloë is like marmite, you either love her or you hate her. I have a problem comparing her to marmite as I hate the stuff and adore her.
This wasn’t always to the case though, I must say, Chloë Sevigny is an acquired taste that I’ve learned to love and appreciate. Yes, back in the day I thought she was an awkward looking little thing whom I felt got too much press and it bothered me.

So, what sparked my interest and got me to actually pay attention to her?

Drumroll please...

Vincent Gallo of course.

The Brown Bunny which received tons of negative press when opening at sundance featuring our dear arrogant Mr. Vincent Gallo and Indie film Princess Ms. Chloë Sevigny, together made an incomprehensible dribble movie with a controversial scene which skyrocketed Mr. Gallo’s name and almost drowned Sevigny’s.

What struck me about Chloë Sevigny though, was her attitude. When Gainsbourg gave France Gall a controversial song to sing, Gall turned around and criticized Gainsbourg for it. Chloe stuck to her guns and remained that she had made her decision with utmost conviction.

Now this is where I realized, ladies and gentlemen, we’re not dealing with a typical annoying, just wants to be on the scene celebrity. This girl is real.

And now that we’re past all that and why we really love her it’s time to talk about the most important part, her style.

Ok. So, she’s always had what I’d like to call, the “farmer” look going on. Fair enough, Inditex made that look commercial two summers ago. However, if you’d really like to see what her style is like, check out this video of Chloë Sevigny presenting her capsule collection for Opening Ceremony http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_O3pSATD83Y

The collection for Opening Ceremony was taken out last year but there are still a couple of items available on the website by Chloë that you can look at.
http://www.openingceremony.us/

Check out this Ultra cute video on Chloë discussing High waisted jeans http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2IoEzDaMrEA

Also, Uniqlo have UT T shirts collaborating with Vincent Gallo, one of them is a bright yellow t shirt with the movie cover of The Brown Bunny as well as t shirts of Vincent Gallo’s face from Buffallo ‘66. They’re on sale, go get yours now before they’re all gone!

Chloë has become a name to look at for hipster fashion, so if you don’t appreciate her yet, let her grow on you!

Scarves and Storytelling

2010-07-24T04:11:00.000-07:00

What can be more simple and more complex than a scarf?
A simple piece of fabric can transform your entire look...
Lets look back at Grace Kelly and Jackie O and how they created their signature looks with scarves.

The women who really know how to make use of a scarf and value their importance, are of course, French women.
Author of the bestselling book French Women don't get fat, Mireille Guiliano, has a charming video on scarves, http://mireilleguiliano.com/content/scarves-secrets-and-tricks

Liberty of London have their own twist on teaching women how to wear a scarf with their postcard collection, http://www.liberty.co.uk/fcp/product/Liberty/Books-&-Stationery/She-Bought-A-Liberty-Scarf-Postcards,--Liberty/56037

Now...
To tell you all about my favorite brand for scarves.
Wolff et Descourtis. http://www.galerie-vivienne.com/en/index.php?q=wolff_et_decourtis

A French family business that goes back to 1876, hand painted velvet fabric where they do shawls and scarves. Its not just that it's beautifully handcrafted, its that every one of their pieces tell a story, like a painting you could stare at.