Jeweller Extraordinare: Lorenz Bäumer

A part of the extremely discreet couture jewellery circuit of the Parisian, or rather world, luxe fashion scenario, Lorenz Bäumer’s creations break away from traditional takes of design to present a mélange of explosive patterns, spectacular gemstones, and pieces that speak out louder than words. A heady combination of feisty art revelations alongside an acquiring process that can be quite daunting except probably for ultra-luxe connoisseurs, a trinklet of Bäumer’s is essentially a collector’s item and a modern heirloom legacy. “Do not remove your jewels when you wash your hands; you may forget them,” he muses.

Designers Bruno Frisoni (R) and Lorenz Baumer at the 2012 Dorchester Collection Fashion Prize shortlist session

Bäumer is also artistic director for Louis Vuitton Fine Jewellery, and he has previously overseen time and jewellery masterpieces for the houses of Chanel, Guerlain and Baccarat. A branch of his own eponymous salon is expanded this year at the very distinct and prestigious 19 Place Vendôme, Paris, marking another momentous milestone in his career as a fine jeweller. In addition, Bäumer has also been named Chevalier of Arts and Letters (a French order for signifi cant contribution arts) in 2004, admitted to the Comité Colbert, which is an association of 75 most important luxury French labels in 2009, and named Chevalier of the Légion d’Honneur, the highest decoration in France in 2010.

Bracelet by Laurenz Baumer

Born in 1965 at Washington DC, USA, to a French mother and a German father, the very dashing Bäumer spent his initial years moving from country to country as his father was a diplomat whose job demanded many international postings. This upbringing, spanning the globe and soaking in the essence of each culture and region, laid the foundation for a strong artistic inclination in his later years when he pursued design. Bäumer went on to graduate in Innovation-Design-Production studies at Ecole Centrale de Paris in 1988. Design was an obvious choice for this now master jeweller, which he began by exploring the dimensions of silverware and furniture initially. Jewellery was where his passion found ardent direction towards achieving obsessive perfection. “Touch. Listen. Imagine. If she feels it, it is made for her,” he says summing up what defines perfection to him.

After this beginning, 1995 witnessed his full-glory entry to the fine jewellery scene bringing with him a refreshing change from the mundane, and daring escapades from convention. Opening showrooms at 4 Place Vendôme enveloped with an air of intimate privacy where appointments were something along the lines of a ritual, Bäumer’s jewellery had discerning takers asking for more. His modern designs that are a seductive analogy of daring and style have graced besides numerous jewellery enthusiasts and famous names, Charlene Wittstock, who donned a Bäumer tiara at the evening gala following her marriage to HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco. Bäumer is a true lover of art and indulges in the same as an incorrigible collector. Paintings, sculptures, photographs and collectible objects all surround his world lending, adding and infusing into his creativity that is clearly revealed in his creations. This art enthusiast even spends quite some of his free time exploring galleries, museums, antique stores and auction houses aiming to observe and understand his counterparts in the world of arts.

Laurenz Baumer Cocktail Rings

 This atypical path of approaching concepts allows him a degree of extensive freedom and innumerable sources of inspiration that take form as he ponders over what he has to make. Architecture, which has always been is evident when he subtly technology with design refusing to adhere trends or cardinal of jewellery-making. His extensive use of geometric shapes and clean lines bring together a very obvious contemporary approach at fi rst glance; then after, the soul and authenticity shines through carrying a unique meaning within. And out of his stunning pieces of art, it is his rings that mere words cannot define. The rings in the Bäumer collection each have their own identity if you put them all side by side – chaotic yet sublime, minimal yet grandiose, and exhaustive yet exclusive. “And the identity of a jewellery piece is in his wearer. Even if you are not wearing it, the piece should tell who it belongs to,” he has been quoted saying.

Laurenz Baumer Earrings

As for designing for a particular kind of clientele, women who defi ne the very word elegance, who imbibe sophistication, and those who embrace emotion are his inspiration. Feeling the unique desire, individuality and dream of each woman, he creates a trinket that brings together and embodies each essence. It can be something as simple as an engagement ring with diamonds, a whimsical brooch christened Beetle, a bracelet shiningly revealed as Treasure Island. After taking the dais of one of the most influential jewellers in the present century, and over 6,000 masterpieces later, Bäumer at heart remains a searching wanderer. And he finds his solace in the vast seas. An avid surfer, he explores the most incredible locations across the world to unwind on the waves, which present a more intimate and confidential side to his persona. When he is at the seas, he finds his luxury… Freedom, space and time.

Resort 2014 Review: Prints We Love! and Hervé Léger

An explosion of delicious prints, Resort 2014 was replete with inspiration scanning all possible medians. And while researching for this post, I was once again trying not to relate to last-season collections as the amount of style transitions are too damn high! Nevertheless, from bold stripes to abstract-geometic organics to a lush splash of natural flora, houses continue to fascinate with their neo-interpretation of spectacular prints.

Resort 2014 Prints: BCBG Max Azria, Donna Karan, Carven, Christian Siriano

BCBG Max Azria showcased anti-fit silhouettes in billowing fabrics -- a lot of black and white -- with Eastern inspired prints on dresses and caftans. I loved Donna Karan's blend of the well-tailored with flimsy pants with a polka-lava print. Amidst all the flora-nature prints, Carven's ensemble stood out for that gorgeous shade of henna green, and a totally non-fussy cut. You know, I have been a huge fan of Christian Siriano since his Project Runway days -- and I was totally floored with that shade of haute pink used in his collection. It may be quite reminiscent of the Marc Jacob's, Moschino's, and D&G's of SS 13, but that is one bold take on the quintessential stripe.

Resort 2014 Prints: Sonia by Sonia Rykiel, Tory Burch, Matthew Williamson, Mary Katrantzou

Doin' the stripe is also this very Pop-arty minimal number from Sonia by Sonia Rykiel. Tory Burch keeps the whimsy alive with this hat-print dress with red detailing on the hems, whereas Matthew Williamson's powdery blue simple shift sports an all over nature print. That's art in an outfit for you -- courtesy Mary Katrantzou where geometrics downplay the elaboration of the nature-scape blouse and jacket.

Resort 2014 Prints: Erdem, Derek Lam, Bottega Veneta, Carolina Herrera

What do you guys think of the black vs. blue play of Erdem and Bottega Venetta? A good run-over of all the collections have shown about 50+ designers incorporating the regal, royal shade of blue in their ensembles. Whereas Erdem plays on the sophistication card, Veneta's enthuse casual chic. Derek Lam too uses polka motifs on bottom-wear and this Herrera dress with a fitted bodice and flowy skirt once again brings forth the brilliance of classic stripes.

Resort 2014 Prints: Versace, Valentino, Rochas, Rebecca Taylor

I did rave about the Versace 2014 resort collection earlier and this swimsuit is no exception -- I love it! Period. Check juxtaposed against fresh flowers makes it work nicely. House Valentino and Rebecca Taylor too embraced the natural revolution, and finally, Rochas wrapped it all snugly into some sleek, all-over geometric repeats.

Collection review: Hervé Léger

Do you guys sometimes feel a little sickened of those Hervé Légers, a little too prominent sometime back on the Indian social circuit? Well it was very pleasant to see organic panels and some unusual motifs in their resort collection. I am the one who's quite tickled by Bondage-inspired fashion and this was no exception. If I had to pick my favourite part, I would say it is the use of tassels and fringes over their statement bandage dresses -- so sexy! The dresses hovered above the knee for most with a lot of emphasis on central demarcation. The jackets too followed this route, with the placement of contrasting colours in different panels coming together beautifully as one. However, the swimsuits were nothing special in my opinion -- have a look at the slideshow below for pictures, and do tell me if lemon yellow is your favourite colour from now on!

SALE Away with net-a-porter's online sale!

How many of you have been taking advantage of the net-a-porter sale online? If you haven’t already started, I suggest now is a good time. With the new additions and further reductions, I couldn't think of a better time to shop. Sadly for me, I have pretty much drained my shopping budget but I have already found some items that are worth further dipping in to my savings! Amongst my new discoveries were some adorable dresses which weren't too expensive (okay maybe they still might be a little pricey but come on, 200 pounds for a good dress is not that bad), some super sexy shoes and of course some fabulous purses. Check out what I’m eyeing from their sale items!

1. Proenza Schouler PS1 Medium Satchel - The iconic PS1 bags are a must have in any bag collector's closet and if they're on sale even better. I especially love the print on it. Click here to purchase.

2. Charlotte Olympia Ipanema Printed Canvas Shopper - The designer's bags just keep getting better and better. I am loving the bamboo handles and the fact that it's roomy enough for all my essentials. Click here to purchase.

3. Marni Two Tone Leather Shopper - I love me a good shopper! This one in particular is so versatile and can be paired with virtually anything. The contrasting shades are a fabulous bonus. Click here to purchase.

4. Alexander McQueen Studded Skull Clutch In Suede - I've told you this before as well, if the box clutches go on sale, you HAVE to buy it! The studded union jack is super edgy and i love that this clutch has a suede exterior (the interior is lined in leather meaning luxury inside and out!). The price doesn't hurt at all. In fact, this clutch comes with a guilt free card, well at least in my head. For 560 pounds, you cannot go wrong. Click here to purchase.

5. Lanvin Sea Breeze Embellished Satin Box Clutch - This clutch gives me butterflies in my tummy and makes my heart beat ten times faster. It's one of the happiest purses I have ever seen and have been eyeing it for a few months now. See what I mean, this is the exact reason you should be taking advantage of the net-a-porter sale people!! Click here to purchase.

6. Alice + Olivia Peplum Dress - Peplums are going still going strong, therefore this jersey dress in a gorgeous red is a great investment. At 91 pounds, you can't go wrong. Click here to purchase.

7. Carven Printed Cotton-Poplin Dress - Look at the cool print on the dress, the very feminine silhouette and the pockets! Isn't it perfect for all those hoity toity farm house parties you might be attending during the day. Click here to purchase.

8. Sonia by Sonia Rykiel Stretch Jersey Dress - Apart from the color, what I really adore about this dress is the dropped waist and flared skirt. I had seen a similar dress from the designer at Harrod's but was stupid not to pick it up. Thankfully my mother has bought it for my sister and I can totally share it. Click here to purchase.

Now for my fabulous shoe discoveries:

1. Saint Laurent Paris Tribute Two Patent and Leather Ankle Boots - The brand's Tribute series are one of their most sought after designs and its best to pick them up as soon as they're marked down. Click here to purchase.

2.Gucci Metallic Leather and Suede Sandals - Remember I told you about my outlet mall story and how the shoes that were 3 to 4 seasons old were more expensive that current season on sale. Well here's the perfect example. At 250 pounds, I'd rather buy these stunning brown sandals with gold detailing than something that's ancient at the outlet mall. Click here to purchase. 

3. Alexander McQueen Embellished Suede Slippers - How cute are the little bees on the shoes? The best part is they can be worn during the day or at night. Click here to purchase.

4. Giuseppe Zanotti Peep-Toe Ankle Boots - If you're looking to make statement, then these shoes are just what you need. The sexy silhouette combined with the stunning bold color make it a must have. Click here to purchase.

Resort 2014 Review - Moschino Cheap and Chic

How adorable was their 1960’s bohemian inspired collection? I love how the pieces make a statement without all that drama. I absolutely love the bright candy coloured tie-dye and the flower explosion on the clothes. The collection was a sweet combination of bohemian and feminine clothes.

Overall, the crocheted maxi dress, hippie-ish cropped flared pants, loose fitted dresses blasted with daisies, boxy jackets and dresses exude a very relaxed vibe. We also saw some feminine silhouettes like the A-line and pleated skirts (in leather, cotton and one with cotton lace on one half), the lovely jackets with little white bows along the buttons and a silk dress with a giant bow on the collar. I loved the pieces which had lace as part of their equation. However, the shift dress with PEACE on it had the most shock value.

I don’t know if it’s just me, but I did feel that there was some resemblance to the Prada SS 13 collection in look number 19; the only difference being the flowers used. Hmm… something to think about maybe?

The accessories were my absolute favourite. A large clutch with MENU written on it, a watering can shaped sling bag; very whimsical.

All in all, I can totally vision the Cheap and Chic gal getting her groove on in Goa or rocking it at Coachella!

Resort 2014 Review - Alexander McQueen

What surprised me the most about this collection was how different it was from the previous one. There is a more relaxed aura about the Resort collection which is almost never the case when it comes to McQueen. The fall collection was a different ball game all together; models with their faces inside a gold cage and the clothes being almost costume like and so regal (the dresses kind of reminded me of Mary Queen of Scots). I guess the change was inevitable. Some of the clothes just won’t be wearable otherwise; there always needs to be a balance.

This time around it was forties work wear that inspired Sarah Burton. If you refer to images of factory women from World War 2, you’ll see the resemblance except this obviously had a McQueen twist to it. I especially liked the thick fabrics used for the military jackets and the exaggerated pockets on some silhouettes were very cool. The collection featured crocheted dresses, cropped pants (some plain and some printed), peasant dresses, high -waisted shorts, halter dresses and gorgeous broderie anglaise. The McQueen style corset appeared in a variety of silhouettes.

I loved the safari suits and have a feeling they’ll sell out pretty soon once the collection hits the stores. They look extremely comfortable and non-fussy. The pinafore like dress with the corset and the knife pleat dress with broderie anglaise were adorable. Another one of my favourite pieces were the patchwork denim safari jacket and the pants; so relaxed yet ultra-stylish.

The shoes were low heeled which is fine since when you’re away on holiday the last thing you want to do is roam the streets with McQueen style high heels! The oversized patchwork clutch/purse was gorgeous and I have a feeling that too is going to be sought after. All in all, the collection was refreshing and proved that Sarah Burton can really do it all. 

Shopaholic in London

Hello everyone! I know I’ve been MIA since I got to London, but can you blame me? Between partying, strolling the streets and shopping, I just couldn’t find the time! Now I’m in Aberdeen and the husband’s busy with cricket, so I am back in action and LOVING it!

First things first, before I move on to doing more Resort reviews, I thought I could run you through some of the key pieces I shopped in London. Getting into each and every item I bought seems too long and boring, so talking about my favourite buys seems fine.

The day after I got there, my friend had planned on taking me to be to Bicester Village, an outlet village in Oxfordshire. At first I was a bit apprehensive as outlet malls are packed with tourists and boutiques have hoards of discounted items which are either pricier than luxury department stores despite being 4 seasons old or stock absolute rubbish. Eventually I thought why not at least check it out so were on our way. Anyways, the first boutique I entered was Jimmy Choo and for a change I was very pleased with the collection and their prices. I ended up buying an adorable pair of tropical print espadrille wedges for 175 pounds which in my opinion is dirt cheap for a pair of Jimmy Choos and considering the shoe was a few seasons old I thought the price was apt. The best part was that the boutique was literally empty!

Moving on, I checked out the usual Gucci, Fendi, Burberry, etc. and most of the stuff was garbage. I couldn’t seem to understand why these stores were so packed because apart from one or two select items, there was really nothing worth buying! Don’t even get me started on the Prada boutique. I saw people walking around with massive Prada shopping bags and I mean lots of them so I thought ooh, let’s check it out. It was no surprise I walked out in under two minutes because as predicted, the stuff was either too old or overpriced. If I have to pay 250 pounds for a pair of ballerinas, I might as well buy them from Harrods or Selfridges because that would be the SS13 collection as opposed to the ancient stuff being sold there.  Then I see everyone walking into Micheal Kors so I jumped on the band wagon and oh god, the store was literally a fish market. It seemed half the world was out to buy the MK crap. NOT impressed.

Anyways, I then spotted Sergio Rossi, virtually empty so I headed there. Other than the sales staff, not a soul in sight (happiness!!) and I spot a pair of adorable black ballerinas and only for 100 pounds! I’ve been wearing them ever since.

Just a tip for all those planning to go to Bicester Village if you happen to be in London; avoid all the overcrowded stores (if you have good taste like I do, chances are you won’t find a thing or are better off buying stuff from the Central London shops/department stores). The trick to outlet shopping is calculating mentally whether an item is worth the price it’s being sold at. Remember to first scope the scene at Harrods, Selfridges and Harvey Nichols along with the flagship stores. Chances are you might find something there on sale and from a more recent collection as opposed to the outlet malls.  Designer shoes on sale usually retail between 200 – 350 pounds on (also depends on the leather and embellishment on the shoes). So say for example you find a pair of Gucci shoes at an outlet store for 250 pounds from FW 2012, unless you are head over heels in love with them, I say ditch them because at that price, you will find something on sale from the SS 13 collection.

Remember, outlet shopping isn’t about randomly buying designer goods for the sake of it. Shop smart. Don’t come home with bags filled with impulsive and silly buys.

The last two things I purchased from Bicester were negligees; one from Agent Provocateur and the other from La Perla. I’m NOT attaching pictures of them!

Anyways, so that’s the end of my outlet experience. So a few days later my mom reaches London and the numerous never ending trips to Harrods begin. YAAY! I ended up buying this gorgeous Rag & Bone Sofia Dress and if you love it as much as I do, you can purchase the coral one from here and the green one from here. The green Sophia dress was also on the SS 13 runway. Please ignore how crushed my clothes are in the pictures; this is what happens when you are a dreadful packer.

What the dress looks like on a model as opposed to my photo!

Silk shirts are a wardrobe staple for me. I have them in all sorts of colours and just never get tired of them so of course when mom and I came across this peachy pink DVF silk shirt, it was a no brainer that I’ll be purchasing it. It is still available online, so if you’re interested, click here to purchase and to see what it looks like when it's not crushed like mine! BTW I’m so glad I didn’t end up buying the silk shirts at the DVF outlet boutique. They were around 50 to 70 pounds more expensive than Harrods!

Next up was another silk shirt I purchased from the fabulous brand Joseph. It’s a very longish type shirt made in heavy silk so the fabric is to die for. It has a little keyhole at the back which is adorable and I got it on sale for like 155 pounds (the original was about 265 pounds or something). Click here to check if it's still available online.

Now for the cherry on top and I mean CHERRY on top was the Celine trapeze bag! Yaay! I finally bought it. I can’t tell you how fast these babies are being bought. I was chatting up with the Celine staff at Harrods and he was telling me how they’re constantly running out of the trapeze bag. I was standing there for only ten minutes and everyone approaching the Celine counter at Harrods was only asking to see the trapeze. Anyways I got mine so I’m walking on clouds; literally. The one I ended up buying has a python shoulder strap and top handle. How stunning is she? I remember being miserable as it was on a waitlist in their Dubai boutique for the longest time last year so I ended up buying myself the YSL Cabas Chyc Tote to make me feel better. But somehow, nothing made me happier than the trapeze.

Well, that’s all I have to say about my London saga. Happy summer shopping people!

Resort 2014 Trends: Suiting Up in Style

The pant-suit for ladies once again takes centre stage in full glory on Resort 2014 runways. From colours to noveau cuts, the suit is reinterpreted with ample amounts of style dosage to fit into every possible occasion.

Akris' cerulean blue fitted suit stands out for it's gorgeous choice of tone, whereas Givenchy displayed an all-over printed/ coordinated look from tip to toe. J Mendel's number is sleek and classy, and I am absolutely lusting after that delicious shade of lavender on the Ralph Lauren. The cuts are just as varied with some done to accentuate natural details on a body and some with confluence of boxy, boyfriend silhouettes.
 

Shown here are my favourite picks in black -- and do you think the sheer detail in the Donna Karan is just absolutely fabulous? Single, twin to no-button, a black suit I think is a necessary part of every woman's wardrobe. It is versatile and can be easily dressed up or down.

I have just about recently taken a liking to androgyny, and Barbara Bui's masculine take on impeccably tailored suits with peek-through details on the sleeves, and contrast lapels has just turned me in to a big fan. Dior remains luscious as ever with a couple of suits in the collection -- my best pick being this red double-breasted one. Double-breasted suits are back in a big way for both men and women, and a length-variate version can be seen on the look by Christopher Kane. The Gucci ensemble is earthy, and enthuses very laid-back chic (I rather have my eyes on that hobo :P). The houses of Marc Jacobs, J and R Cavalli, Reed Krakoff, Chloe, Sports Max, Chanel, and Zac Posen too presented some beautiful pant-suits.

What I love:
Boxy cuts
No-buttons
Tapered pants
Above-the-ankle lengths
Missing structural elements