As all of Switzerland slowly starts to shift and reopen, I wanted to highlight the inspiring approach that Christian Dior and Maria Grazia Churi have had during the ongoing global pandemic. Here are three ways in which this luxury designer Dior has turned to digital media and their brand heritage to brighten our days.
Firstly, Dior began last month by launching their guided tour of the brand’s “Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams” exhibition at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris. Which can be discovered right at home.
Back in 2017, the exhibition ran for 7 months and had almost a million visitors. This guided tour goes the 70 years of Dior and is a true treasure for fashion and history lovers alike.
Another quarantine project that Dior launched last month is “Dior and the Dance” a series of ballet video tutorials on their YouTube channel.
A cheerful hommage to Christian Dior’s ties to ballet and art. For example, when Dior created the costumes for the ballet Roland Petit “Thirteen dances”.
Dior also released the 1949 film, “Haute-Couture,” which was directed by Henri A. Lavorel. It is an exciting, colorized insight info Dior’s world and his life at 30 Avenue Montaigne atelier in Paris. Focusing on how the autumn/winter 1949 collection was put together and created the iconic NEW LOOK.
Overall, Dior has set the tone for creativity through their digital innovations during these exceptional times. An inspirational initiative that is sure to educate and inspire all fashionistas.
Fashion trends 2020 – Elevated loungewear is having a moment. This trend is getting hyped up with the current situation. While working from home and staying safe you might wonder: how can we stay in and still look cute?
I had a little look at a couple easy and fun ways to look stylish and comfy. Here are some loungewear looks you can put together easily.
Never being a bit fan of sweatpants myself I always struggled with the athleisure trend. However I have come to embrace it since the lockdown started.
Finally turning to the big movement that began with Kim Kardashian West’s aesthetic and Kanye West’s Yeezy collections. I decided to draw inspiration from their nude palette and thee whole sexy sweats look. Their laidback yet luxurious loungewear is often contrasted with high maintenance makeup and hair. So that is of course optional and always fun to do if you want to glam up your daily look.
So here are 3 key casual yet stylish stay at home looks using items that you probably already have in your wardrobe.
Look 1: The Stylish Sweatsuit Set
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Think Minimal, Scandinavian Chic
Stylish sweat sets are your golden ticket to get through confinement. Opt to for monochrome sets in neutral shades such as cream, dove grey, almond or stone. In terms of textiles, choose super soft materials (prima cotton, velour, cashmere and modal blends). Look for loose fitted ones with a high waist. You can keep it feminine and playful by tucking the top a bit to define your waist.
My personal favorites which are easily accessible worldwide for these lounge sets are NA-KD fashion, H&M and Zara.
Glam it up! A fun way to keep this outfit interesting and is by adding gold, bold jewels. Such as a statement necklace, hoop earrings or thick, chunky rings will instantly elevate the look.
Look 2: Play with proportions
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Get Shorty
As the weather warms up in spring, this is an easy athleisure look to stay cool and look chic. Paring cycle shorts with a loose tee and an oversized hoodie. This outfit is all about playing with proportions and combining form-fitted with oversized. You can take it one step further and add a dash of neon or opt for a tie-dye jumper to really stay on trend!
My personal faves include Revolve, Nasty Gal and Missguided for these trendy pieces.
Look 3: Keeping up with the crop tops
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Dare to Bare
This is a more daring one that shows a bit of skin (it’s also a great one to motivate you to keep in shape while at home!). Combine a cute crop top or bandeau in black or white with a super-soft knit and high-waisted yoga leggings. If you are looking for great staples Oysho Sport, Nike and Alo Yoga have super leggings and workout tops.
And there you have it! Elevated yet effortless. These three easy looks incorporate the loungewear fashion trend that has been skyrocketing since quarantine started.
Spring is in the air – my favorite fragrances to wear right now.
As the seasons shift, it’s a great time to switch up your current scent. Personally, I like unisex fragrances, so the majority of this selection is for both men and women.
So here are my top 5 top perfumes that I love to wear in spring!
1. Neroli Portofino by TOM FORD
I have been wearing this scent since 2011 when I discovered it at Harvey Nichols as a student. I could not get over how sparkling fresh it smells, instantly transporting me to the Mediterranean coast. It is inspired by the luxury Italian riviera resort town of Portofino, a region known for its opulent old-world glamour and breathtaking Italian landscape. This fragrance is for both women and men. Featuring crisp notes of citrus, lime and bergamot blended with amber undertones.
Also a fun fact about Neroli, did you know that it is known for its calming and relaxing properties? It can help alleviate anxiety and even treat stress-related depression. Talk about the perfect scent for this Springtime quarantaine.
2. Molecule 02 by Escentric Molecules
Molecule 02 is another fragrance I became quickly addicted to. Made as well for both women and men, Molecule 02 is ideal for spritzing on during the spring.
Fresh and subtle, it’s got an intangible allure to it. It’s key note is Ambroxan (a vegan variation of ambergris, a rare and precious perfume ingredient).
3. Oud Noir Intense by Fragrance Du Bois
A Privé Collection by the luxury perfumer house, Fragrance Du Bois, is stronger and more intriguing. Oud Noir Intense is an Eau de Parfum designed for both men and women.
It’s top notes open with bergamot and cardamom, before blending smoothly into a floral heart of jasmine and rose. Intertwined with amber, sandalwood, saffron, patchouli, vanilla and musk. The base is 100% pure organic oud. It’s an entrancingly velvet fragrance, ideal for a lazy day inside.
4. Nepal Aoud by Montale Paris
It took me an endless array of coffee beens and tests to finally find the fragrance from Montale that works well on my skin: Nepal Aoud. An enticingly exotic scent with top notes of nutmeg and saffron from Kashmir. Blended with Bulgarian rose and amber. With a sillage of leather, white musk and a touch of vanilla. Pierre Montale has created 140 fragrances to date, so if you are a fan of oriental blends, you bound to find one that fits you just right.
5. Santal 33 by Le Labo
A classic must have for all niche perfume lovers. This is the scent worn by countless celebrities (from Justin Bieber to Alexa Chung) launched in 2011. It’s a fragrance for women and men that has both woody and spicy notes, with hints of leather and musk. I discovered it in Shoreditch a few years ago and since then am hooked. I love that you can personalize your bottle and also refill it at any Le Labo store in the world. What’s more, each city has their own limited edition scent, so true globetrotting fans of the brand can collect them.
So there you have it. My top five spring scents for 2020. What about you? What are your favorite fragrances at the moment? Let me know in the comments below! X
When it comes to fashion, there are certain pieces which remain fashion staples no matter what the season. These are the eight ultimate style staples everyone should own.
They are the foundation of your wardrobe. That streamlined selection of everyday items. The key basic pieces which can be combined endlessly and can be dressed up or down any look.
Classics, investment pieces, building blocks, call them what you will. Here are the eight ultimate pieces that every fashion lover should have in their capsule wardrobe:
Items: a tailored blazer, jeans, nude cashmere, white shirt, black booties, white sneakers, trench and LBD.
1. A tailored blazer. Well cut, black, beige, navy or grey. Adding a touch of elegance to your everyday, it works well for all occasions. It can be paired with a white shirt and jeans, just as it can be layered on top of a delicate, lace blouse. Obviously the most iconic of all jackets comes from the one and only YSL. As Yves Saint Laurent introduced blazers into women’s wardrobes in 1960s. Le Smoking was the first of its kind at the time. From Androgynes and minimal to the 80s power suit – I can honestly vouch for them having a couple vintage ones which are still to this day absolutely amazing and cut perfectly. These tailored glories have since become sartorial key pieces. Although, if your looking for an impeccably cut, everyday blazer, I highly recommend looking at The Kooples.
2. The perfect pair of jeans. My personal favourite are Levi’s. I have them in every shade of denim you can think of. If you’re looking for something a bit more edgy, I also highly recommend J Brand’s denim range. Opt for a pair of black coated skinny jeans or an acid wash if you want to add a stylish twist your everyday wardrobe. Personally, I find it’s all about the cut. I am a huge fan of high-waisted skinny jeans.
3. A classic cashmere in nude. Hawick is my go-to, having lived in Edinburgh for 4 years and owning them my survival of the bitter cold Scottish winters. A soft, cable knit in oatmeal was in fact the first thing I purchased when I arrived as a student. Eric Bonpard also have an unreal selection of cashmere in every cut and colour your could dream of! Another more recent discovery is the cashmere brand Not Shy if you want a cool twist on your everyday knits. They also did a campaign with one of my favorite, Swedish influencers pernilleteisbaek recently.
4. A simple, white shirt. From the ever trustworthy Zara to Ralph Lauren, you can get endless variations of these beauties. Sheer, silk or lined with lace – it’s all about the details! I like to layer a white button shirt under a dress or a sweater to add some dimension to an outfit.
5. Black boots. These are a basic must have for your everyday wardrobe. There’s a reason every off-duty model rocks a pair of these. Balenciaga, Givenchy or Chloé – they are a cool-girl essential. I love Santoni for boot heeled options (so comfortable and the quality is unbelievable). For a more casual look, I opt for my Rag & Bone ones I received whilst interning their at Paris Fashion Week. They are sturdy and I like to combine them with floral dresses for example add a little edge to an otherwise very feminine look.
6. A pair of white sneakers. From Superga to Stan Smith’s to Gucci’s Ace sneakers to Alexander McQueen’s Runway sneakers. Everyone wants a pair of these fashion staples. What is more designers are focusing more on sneakers than it-bags these days. Sneakers are officially the cool cat piece that every girl should own. White is of course a nice way to brighten up any look. Injecting a pop of preppy, sporty-chic to your outfit.
7. A Trench coat. Ideally from Burberry in honey or in navy. It’s become iconic thanks to Hollywood’s Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Elegant and effortless, this is a mid-season classic that shall never go out of style.
8. The LBD. The little black dress. This has got to be the piece I own the most variations of in my closet if truth be told. A universally flattering piece that I always make a point of adding to my suitcase wherever I go. My favorites for daytime are a classic A-line one from Ganni and an elegant Sandro with fun shoulder-pads. In the evening I usually opt for a black blazer dress which I accessorize with a fun brooch or a pair of big statement earrings.
There you have it. The eight essential touchstones of any wardrobe. Elevated basics that can be styled to suit your style. Essential classic closets pieces that will stand the test of time. In fact, the term “Capsule wardrobe” was coined by Susie Faux, the owner of a London boutique called “Wardrobe” in the 1970s. It stemmed from the concept of having a permanent collection that can be worn all year round. A sustainable and chic way to stay stylish.
So what are your wardrobe staples? What do you reach for time and time again?
A fashionista’s dream come true. This Thursday, we had the pleasure of enjoying a gourmet combination of couture and cooking. The Beau Rivage Hotelin Geneva launched just their new afternoon tea. Inspired by the Jimmy Choo Spring/Summer 2020 collection, featuring neon, sequins and exotic animal prints such as zebra and leopard. All these promenant elements from the SS20 collection where echoed throughout the delicious range of sweet and savoury snacks which were shaped like mini Jimmy Choo handbags and shoes. These unique culinary creations where conceived by the prestigious Chef Pâtissier Yohan Coiffard.
A First in Geneva: Food and Fashion at its Finest
An exciting concept running all the month of March, every day from 14pm to 18pm at Le Bar. Afternoon fashion tea is an idea that has become increasingly popular in at luxury hotels in metropolitan cities such as London, Munich and Hong Kong. Now and for the first time in Geneva, Switzerland the luxury hotel, Beau Rivage, collaborated with the high fashion brand Jimmy Choo for you to enjoy this truly innovative experience. What is more, The Beau Rivage is the oldest luxury 5 star hotel in Geneva. Founded in 1865 by the Mayer family.
At the beginning of the month, we enjoyed the most wonderful, luxury escape in the Swiss Alps. I wanted to share my exceptional stay at the Arosa Kulm Hotel.
Arosa is a luxury ski resort in Switzerland, situated in the alpine resort village. The Arosa Kulm Hotel is nestled in the Schanfigg Valley, in the Swiss canton of Graubünden. A real winter wonderland, this breathtaking five-star hotel dates all the way back to 1882 and has the most fascinating backstory. It is the perfect setting for a snowy getaway like the one we enjoyed.
Upon arriving, I was struck by the fairytale nature of the hotel. We were warmly welcomed into the hotel and shown to the sprawling suite which we would call home for the next few days.
The Hotel
The hotel even features ski-in & ski-out access, Alpine Spa and 5 first-class restaurants (13, 14 and 15 Gault Millau points).
The Hotel Arosa Kulm is in fact steeped in wonderful history that dates back to even before 1882. It all began when the Arosa confectioner, Hans Hold, bought the house neighboring his farmhouse. It was in 1882 that the Arosa Kulm Hotel originated when Hans’ son, Thomas connected the two houses. Thus, transforming them into a 30-room hotel named the Kurhaus. In 1894, Thomas Hold passed away and the hotel was taken over by the chef, Mr. Scherrer who renames the hotel “Kulm”. Today the hotel stands proudly at the top of Arosa, now with 119 rooms with 207 beds and a stunning Alpin Spa. What’s more, each room in the hotel is furnished differently and tells its own story. Allowing guests to have a truly unique and memorable experience at the hotel.
The Location
Arosa itself has plenty of activities. So during our three-day stay, we took full advantage of all that this snowy ski resort had to offer, including a lovely squirrel trail. The Arosa Kulm Hotel staff even provided us with peanuts to attract squirrels. The Arosa squirrel path was amazingly scenic and we even saw a baby deer on the trail.
Our Room
The hotel suite reminded me of a James Bond film set, with rustic, chalet-chic finishings and huge bay windows that overlooked the Swiss Alps. It had a wonderful glamour and grandeur to it with a fantastic view of the snow-capped mountainside was spectacular.
The suite was classically designed in a Swiss chalet style with luxurious finishes. In addition to the large bedroom and ensuite, marble bathroom, we had a spacious living room area and dressing room. The bedroom had the most comfortable pillows I’ve ever slept on and I was so pleased that the bathroom had both a shower and bath (I am a huge fan of bubble baths!). The cherry on top was that our room had a huge south-facing balcony with lovely wooden deck chairs so we could soak up the sunshine and fresh alpine air.
The Food
The Arosa Kulm Hotel is known as a gourmet destination, with 5 different restaurants we were spoilt for choice.
The first night we enjoyed the delicious, locally sourced dishes from Chef Florian Mainzger at the Mutanella restaurant.
Before dinner on the second night, we cozied up by the fire and enjoyed a little pre-dinner appetitive. I sipped my divinely made expresso martini at the K.Lounge and could not help but be reminded again of the glamour of a 007 movie set.
Then we headed down to try the famous Thai restaurant: Ahaan Thai. This restaurant also has the most fabulous backstory to it In the 1930s the Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej learned to ski in Arosa and even stayed at the Arosa Kulm Hotel itself. Today, Chef Tussanee and her team have been flown in from Bangkok and bring their authentic expertise to each dish.
The Alpine Spa
The Arosa Kulm Alpine Spa offers relaxation and the most breathtaking view of the Swiss alps. The spa is entirely made of glass windows and you can see out onto the crystal white snow slopes. With 1,200 square meters of wellness and relaxation, the heated area and indoor pool have a calm serenity to them. Indeed, this is because the concept of the Arosa Kulm spa was based on the earliest power symbols from traditional European natural healing. Even the color of the local blue-green Andeer granite in the spa forms the energetic core.
The philosophy is rooted in a source of balance and harmony embodied in our tree of life which represents vital energy and a link to the subconscious. I even practiced some meditation in the quiet room. I felt deeply recharged in both my mind and body. There was a truly calming effect that the Spa itself had on me.
This luxury escape in snowy Arosa is exactly what I needed to unwind. The food, hotel staff and service were all exceptional. The hotel staff was incredibly professional yet so warm, kind and friendly. Everyone went above and beyond any expectations and I can wholeheartedly say this was one of the most amazing experiences I’ve ever had.
