Anna Swiss Mermaid – Page 5

Posted on November 20, 2020November 22, 2020 by — 4 Comments

4 ways to wear cashmere this winter

Anna Swiss mermaid cashmere fashion guide

It’s winter’s most luxurious basic. Cashmere is a cold weather go-to classic. Be it a super soft cardigan or a rib-knit turtleneck, cashmere sweaters are an effortless way to stay in style this winter.

If you’re looking for high quality, cashmeres with cool, contemporary designs then Princess Goes Hollywood is the brand for you. This Swiss fashion brand is famous for their luxuriously cool cashmeres. Their collections feature a modern take on luxurious textiles featuring playful details such as pearl beads and crystal embellishments.

Cashmere is a textile that transcend seasons and will always be in style. Making it a winter wardrobe must-have. In fact, my love for cashmere stems from my years studying in Scotland. It was the first thing I purchased as a student, frozen by the highland winds I ran into the first store selected a soft, nude cable knit which became my faithful companion throughout university. What I love about cashmere is that it is incredibly soft and lightweight. You don’t need to have tons of layers to stay warm, just a good quality cashmere. Snuggly yet stylish, these sweaters will keep you warm all winter!

So let’s take a look at 4 classic winter knits and how to wear them.

Looking for timeless, winter-closet staples? Here are the 4 must-have sweaters for this season:

1. The cashmere cardigan

I am a huge fan of cashmere cardigans, they are amazing loungewear luxe pieces. They look effortlessly chic when thrown over a silk camisole in the evening or else paired with a graphic tee on the weekend. I love this plush, oatmeal colored cardigan that ties at the waist. Here I chose to play with textures a bit by layering this Princess Goes Hollywood cashmere cardigan with a black leather skirt, sheer tights and tall crocodile print, pointed boots.

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2. The black turtleneck

This is one of my wardrobe staples when the temperature drops. I love wearing turtlenecks and I pretty much own one in every colour. They are so easy to wear, warm and oh so effortlessly elegant. You can layer them or play with proportions like it did here. Pairing my black Princess Goes Hollywood turtleneck with one of their beautiful, beaded black tulle skirts. To glam up the look, I added a dash of red lipstick and a huge pair of Topshop earrings.

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3. The white cable knit

This chunky cable-knit is a classic preppy piece which looks great in the winter. Soft, light and amazingly warm this Princess Goes Hollywood ivory knit is a made of 100% Merino Wool and makes a wonderful wardrobe staple. What’s more I am a huge fan of the “all white outfits” which are currently trending so I couldn’t resist trying it out myself. Although I did break up the all white with my snakeskin Zadig et Voltaire ankle boots.

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4. The neutral knit

Crew neck with embellishments, this Princess Goes Hollywood cashmere sweater is the perfect piece for any occasion. Be it for a weekend walk, a laid back dinner with friends or an end of the year party – the subtle sparkles add a little luxe to this truly timeless piece. I opted for a tonal look here. Adding a pair of coffee colored leather pants and chestnut red ankle boots to compliment the accents of crystals

So there you have it, 4 winter ready ways to wear your favourite snuggly sweaters.

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Posted on November 12, 2020March 14, 2022 by — Leave a comment

Manolo Blahnik in Geneva

Since the 1970s, this high-end luxury footwear brand has grown into one of the most recognised shoe brands in the world. Hailed, “The King of Shoes”, Manolo Blahnik needs no introduction for luxury lovers.

This autumn, Manolo Blahnik in Geneva welcomed me into their stunning store situated on 20 Rue de la Corraterie to discover the latest collections. Upon entering the store I was struck by the gorgeous scent of Diptyque’s Baies. Like an elegant introduction welcoming me into the luxury store.

Indeed, did you know that Manolo Blahnik actually lived and studied in Geneva? It was the first place he moved to after growing up in the Canary Islands. The location of the Geneva store was actually very strategically chosen as it holds fond memories of Manolo’s years walking to the Université de Genève. It is situated just across from the cinema (Ciné 17) he loved going to. Geneva is a cosmopolitan city that hold of quiet luxury. In the Spanish designer’s own words, “Geneva, such a charming city that is calm and beautiful. And the people! I was spellbound by them, they are intelligent and sophisticated with an incredible eye for detail and craftmanship.”

Now speaking of craftsmanship, let’s take a closer look at the latest collections…

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The New Manolo Blahnik Collection

The Autumn / Winter 2020 footwear collection included a sumptuous array of ankle boots and pumps. In fact, this collection was designed during the lockdown earlier this year. Details of the collection pay hommage to designers Paul Poiret, Azzedine Alaïa and Eileen Gray. Inspired by a concoction of art, architecture, and landscapes. The collection plays with form, texture and pattern, featuring geometric patterns, embroidery and animal print details.

The Icons

Signature styles from the luxury shoe designer include the Lurum mules. One of my favorite pairs was this beautiful burgundy satin one with Swarovski crystal embellishments. A timeless style which can be worn with a beautiful dress just as easily as it can rocked with a pair of jeans. With eye-catching details, they are true show stoppers.

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The Nadira courts are another incredible pair of Manolo Blahnik’s iconic shoe designs. I was immediately mesmerized by the delicate curve of glittering crystals that tickled the sides of the satin pumps. What is more the embellishments act almost like straps when you wear the shoes. I loved how comfortable and easy they were to walk in. Indeed I was very pleasantly surprised by just how comfortable all the heels I tried on were!

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Of course one cannot go to Manolo Blahnik and not try on a pair of Hangisi. They are one of the most well know of Manolo’s designs. Made famous by Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City. Luxurious and regal, these shoes dress up any outfit. My favorite variant was the Hangisi denim and diamanté combination.

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Indeed with a lengthy list of cult silhouettes, it’s not hard to see why Spanish shoe designer Manolo Blahnik is hailed as a living luxury icon. Indeed he has won many awards along his career including the most recent Luxury Legend Award which was given to Manolo Blahnik by UK’s leading luxury alliance, Walpole in 2018. In 2015, The Couture Council Award for Artistry of Fashion was bestowed to him by the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Art and the list goes on! Exemplifying timeless luxury and true creative flair.

The Manolo Blahnik Store in Geneva

The Geneva store was opened May 3rd 2020. The exposed walls are actually historic, dating over 100 years. The interior is a beautiful combination of classic and modern design. With mod art monochrome polka dots and stripes on the walls, big glass cabinets are filled candy colored collections of satin shoes and Manolo’s framed shoe design illustrations line the walls. Indeed these illustrations played a key part in inspiring my own creative journey. I discovered the illustration book before I went to art school and spent hours pouring over the creations. Loving how playful yet detailed each one was.

I was honored to have such a wonderful experience at Manolo Blahnik. It was a fantastic afternoon spent discussing the designs, the brand values and heritage as well as discovering new collection and playing Cinderella.

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Posted on October 28, 2020November 9, 2020 by — Leave a comment

Ways to wear it: Denim with 10.11 Studios

10.11 Studios • About the Brand

Luxury with a conscience: Timeless, sophisticated and sustainable jeans. Meet 10.11 Studios created by Monica Caleya in Barcelona. Their denim range has a classic cool feel. This new, contemporary brand has a distinctive European edge. I had the opportunity to discover some of the key pieces from their Fall/Winter 2020-2021 collection. One thing is for sure the quality of the fabric is apparent at the first touch! What is more 10.11 is a sustainable brand. They use organic and recycled cotton blends in their designs. There designs are exclusively available in Switzerland at Bongenie Grieder and at Le Bon Marché in Paris.

As the designer so eloquently puts it, “10.11 Studios’ collections are uniquely inspired by the union of the Mediterranean lifestyle with the sophistication of European simplicity. Blending a relaxed beach sensibility with soft, comfortable, high-end fabrics, subtle washes and only minimal abrasion to create a true premium denim look. 10.11 jeans are made for women who radiate a natural confidence and strength with fits that underline femininity & natural beauty. ”

Denim Daze • Timeless Pieces

10.11 Studios Wardrobe Staples: Denim Must-Haves

This Fall/Winter 2020-2021 trends included an endless array of flared jeans, cropped denim jackets to high-waisted skinny jeans. Denim is truly versatile as they look good with pretty much everything in ones closest.

Indeed, denim is a key part of almost everyone’s wardrobe. A timeless piece that is definitely worth investing in.

This said, with so many endless options available, it’s easy to feel confused as to which cuts and colours will suit best! So here I created some fun denim looks that are easy to wear during the winter season. A simple denim guide for 3 classic jean cuts: skinny, cropped and flared.

STYLE GUIDE: How to style your denim

3 Ways To Wear Jeans with 10.11 Studios

Check out my denim guide with 10.11 Studios below, featuring the best jeans styles and styling tips.

Look 1: 70s Chic

Seventies-inspired styles were a huge inspiration this season. With high-waisted, wide-leg, and bell-bottom jeans dominating the runways.

Wide leg jeans are without a doubt super on trend this year. Indeed the cut in itself is extremely flattering, especially if you want to create the illusion of added height.

I paired these 10.11 Studios flared, high waisted “Rose Sleepless” jeans with a white bodysuit. Layering several golden APM Monaco necklaces, platform boots and a white leather bag to amp up that boho chic 70s vibe.

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Look 2: Cool & Cozy

One of the thickest materials for the colder months is a hardworking pair of jeans. I survived most of my university years up in chilly Scotland by wearing thick high-waisted Mom jeans tucked into two cashmeres! For extra warmth you can also add a pair of tights underneath.

Sustainably dyed a dark-gray, these “Elsa Moon” jeans are stonewashed grey with distressed hems. Making them ideal for an everyday off-duty look. Designed to sit high on the waist, they fall to straight legs with cropped hems. I styled it a chunky black sweater and a pair of burgundy boots for a comfy yet cool look.

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Look 3: Double Trouble

The easiest way to master this high-impact look is by opting for two slightly different shades to ensure there is a monochrome yet stylish edge to your double denim look.

Here I channeled my inner Kate Moss rock chic by pairing the 10.11 Studio “Pia Stealth” skinny charcoal trousers with the cropped “Elena” jacket with flared sleeves. Adding a touch of glam with a sheer sequined top.

So there you have it, 3 easy looks to wear denim. I hope you enjoyed it!

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Posted on February 7, 2020January 14, 2021 by — Leave a comment

A Luxury Escape at Arosa Kulm Hotel

Arosa Kulm Hotel is a luxury, Swiss ski resort.

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.

Thank you so much for having me.

Posted on December 15, 2019 by — Leave a comment

25Hours in Zurich

Situated in the heart of Zürich, a stones throw away from the central train station, the 25Hours Hotel Langstrasse is ideal if you plan a short trip in Zurich. We stayed in the 25Hours Langstrasse Hotel in Zurich in mid-December for a weekend getaway. It was a great experience, especially as I love Zurich city so much. It is the perfect combination of urban cool kids and sleek city glamour. Zurich is in fact the largest city in Switzerland. It is a melting pot of art, culture, finance, filled with upscale bankers and quirky bohemians.

The neighborhood of the hotel is where the infamous Langstrasse intersects with the hyper-modern Europaalle. Built in 2017, the hotel had a cool and contemporary edge to it. Indeed, the 25Hours Hotel Langstrasse is part of the The 25Hours Hotels group, a group of 13 hotels in 9 cities. Each one is tailored to the specific location. In Zurich there are actually two 25Hours hotels: Langstrasse and Zürich West.

The hotel itself had a hip interior design that reflected the creative district. The room had the most beautiful full length windows. I was particularly in love with the bathroom lighting which was perfect for selfies. Even the bathrobes where edgy. Instead of the usual white bathrobes that hotels provide, these where black with yellow embroidery. The pillows had playful phrases printed on them and the room had its own Polaroid camera which echoed that artsy aspect of the hotel. Indeed the 25hours Langstrasse hotel actually offers an artist in residence programs through “The Atelier”.

With Christmas around the corner, we got to enjoy the Zurich Christmas market and strolled around the beautifully decorated city center all lit up in the evening. Later on in the evening, we headed to the hotel bar, the Cinchona, which is very popular with the local Zurich crowd. The bar decor was quirky and cool with plants that twirled around the golden furniture and bikes hanging from the ceiling.

Then, in the morning we took advantage of the SPA area and sauna – which was very relaxing. There was an endless selection of healthy teas to enjoy and even a tea tap! So that you could instantly brew up a nice cup as you sat back and enjoyed yourself. The different tea names were in line with the hotel’s playful nature, featuring flavors such as “Master Mint”, “Low Rider” “Maybe Baby” and “Lazy Daze”.

Then we heading down to enjoy a delicious brunch. The menu included a wide selection of Mediterranean dishes. There was also some delicious homemade chocolate, in line with the Swiss nature of the location.

Urban, cool and artsy, the beautiful 25Hours Hotel Langstrasse is the ideal for a short stay in Zurich.

Thank you so very much for the most wonderful stay!

Posted on November 28, 2019March 9, 2021 by — Leave a comment

How to Shop for Luxury – A Millennial Guide

A Millennial Approach to Luxury

When it comes to sustainable fashion in luxury it has become more than a buzzword; it has become a conscious necessity. In particular for millennial and Generation Z consumers.

In fashion, there has been a paradigm shift linked directly to the fact that these generations are exposed to the internet and social networks. Making them aware of social and economic issues linked to the way we consume and wanting to take action. Millennials are mindful consumers. It’s no longer sufficient to use the best quality leather for your designer handbag. Millennial consumers want the product to be made of ethically sourced raw materials that respect fair trade and use sustainable production practices.

So how are millennials are transforming the luxury market? And more importantly: how can we stay chic and sustainable at the same time?

Digital natives with a conscious, millennials like myself care about what and how we consume. 14% of consumers from the ages 18 to 24 complete their first luxury purchase online. What is more, today although millennials only represent 32% of spending in the luxury market, come 2025, millennials are expected to make up 50% of the luxury market (FORBES, 2019). Meaning that we have a direct impact on the luxury market as future consumers with a substantial purchasing power. Luxury brands aware of this are upping their green game. Conscious that luxury sustainability will become synonymous with our way of consuming fashion.

“Sustainability will continue to advance in importance,” Sarah Willersdorf, partner and managing director at BCG and Global Head of Luxury explains. “It will feed both the secondary-luxury market as well as give a lift to limited-run collaborations which show a brand’s respect for not flooding the market with too much merchandise.”

Some luxury fashion brands such as Stella McCartney are already way ahead of the game. In 2018, Gucci also eradicated fur from their collections in an effort towards ethical manufacturing their creations.

Purchase decisions are shifting and the luxury landscape with it. For example 56% of true-luxury consumers are attuned to luxury brands’ stance on social responsibility. 62% choose to do business with a brand that supports sustainability over a brand that does not, compared with 50% in 2013. Interestingly, sustainable luxury consumers are primarily concerned with the environment (37%), animal care (27%) and ethical manufacturing (21%). Whilst millennials top priorities are on the environment (42%) and animal treatment (26%), versus Boomers whose primary concern is ethical manufacturing (32%). (FORBES, 2019)

The characteristics of millennial behavior are seeping into older generations— which accounted for 73% of luxury purchases in 2016. (Bain & Company)

The stigma of second-hand luxury fashion goods is rapidly becoming a thing of the past.

“Second-hand luxury is rapidly becoming mainstream,” Willersdorf says. “And it is not just the lower price that attracts these true-luxury consumers. It is often the only way they can buy scarce, limited-edition, special sold-out collaborations missed the first time or vintage items.”

Breathing a second life into your wardrobe – traditionally considered less impressive than getting a new shiny item – is now the cool thing to do. Lending, renting and buying clothes second hand luxury goods is an eco-friendly trend in 2020 that is here to stay.

Unsurprisingly handbags make up 40% of all pre-owned purchases. The most popular and purchased pre-owned brands are the big players such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Dior. With Vestiaire Collective at the forefront (BCG, 2019). I can honestly say that my first purchase was indeed a pre-loved Balenciaga City Bag bought with my first paycheck. The reasons for this? Firstly, it was a classic in Balenciaga’s permanent collection and bound to stay in style for years to come. Second, I happened to have spotted the exact same petrol blue bag on the arm of my favorite fashion blogger Chiara Ferrangi. And lastly, it was a little treat from me to me without breaking the bank but still investing in a quality, luxury item that I still have, wear and love. Timeless style, the product’s qualify and prestige are all key factors Millennials take into account when purchasing a luxury good such as a handbag.

Moreover, Millennials (myself included) are known to spend time, endlessly exploring and comparing their retail options, both online and in-store. My favorite luxury resale websites include The RealReal, Ruelala and of course Vestiare Collective. Also if you are looking for a hard go find piece Lyst is amazing. Whilst Swiss equivalents include LuxuryLove and Reawake in Zurich and Vintage Garderobe and Downtown Uptown in Geneva.