The Little Black Book Of Vintage

I just realised that in all my posts, I haven’t written a single piece about vintage products. I am a big vintage fan and am constantly on the prowl to find unique purses, jackets or jewellery that one doesn’t get to see often. I don’t necessarily hunt for designer goodies; just anything that exudes character and individuality. One of my favourite sites for affordable vintage is www.vintagevixen.com, they have a lovely collection of charming purses and jewellery (they’ve got clothes and shoes too, but I don’t usually buy vintage clothes unless they’re either fur jackets or designer blazers). Oh and they deliver internationally too.

What attracts me most to vintage bags is how each era has a different shape which is very unique and it’s very rare to spot someone with the exact same bag. Even embroidery and hardware differ from decade to decade making the accessory really stand out. Personally, I stick to purchasing clutches as most of them can be pulled off with ease without looking out of style. 

If you’re looking to invest in vintage designer bags, I must warn you not to buy from the first website you come across. A plethora of websites claim to sell pre-owned designer goods, especially Chanel purses which more often than not are counterfeit. One of the key things I keep a lookout for is if that site has had any press coverage; if so, then you know the website is credible. Vintage designer bags come cheaper than most of the purses you buy straight from the boutiques, but once again, try and stick to classic silhouettes.

Say for example you find a Gucci bag from the 60’s for about 250 dollars, please inspect the shape of the bag as you don’t want to end up with a Gucci bag that looks outdated which will be of no use to you. Another instance would be if you happen to get a great price for a vintage Louis Vuitton Speedy bag, compare that price to the current market rate and if it’s a good bargain, from a trusted source then go ahead and buy it as the Speedy is a classic.

Now, if you’re looking for a pre-owned Chanel bag, most of them, especially the 2.55 sell out as soon as they are listed on the website (YES, everybody wants a Chanel!), however, there are some currently available on www.thevintagecontessa.com so you can check them out. This e-commerce vintage site has a fantastic collection of Chanel purses, Chanel jewellery and an exquisite range of Hermes bags including numerous Birkins.

An Hermes Birkin currently listed on www.thevintagecontessa.com

A Chanel Quilted Flap Bag currently listed on www.thevintagecontessa.com

On another note, I do suggest you view this informational video posted by http://www.vintageheirloom.com on how to identify a fake Chanel 2.55.

When it comes to exotic skin and fur jackets, and the hefty price tags don’t suit you, then once again, non-branded vintage or pre-loved is the way to go. Designer items will come pricier than others of course, but it’s still cheaper than current prices. Vintagevixen.com sometimes has non branded exotics for a price that will leave anyone drooling (snakeskin clutch from the 60’s for 18 dollars!). Check out www.etsy.com as they sometimes have listings for some pre-owned fur stoles and jackets. Just type in fur in their search engine and the list will pop up. You can also register on www.vaunte.com to shop for some fabulous recycled luxury goods from various people’s closets.

A 1930's fur coat on vintagevixen.com

A 1950's lizard skin bag on vintagevixen.com

A vintage mink stole listed on etsy.com

A Red Valentino fur jacket on vaunte.com

Also, keep a lookout on www.archivevintage.com for some great designer exotic skin bags for a reasonable price. At the moment they don’t seem to have much stock, but they keep adding new stock so the trick is to keep checking. Currently, they have a few gorgeous vintage blazers online, so if you are keen on purchasing one, I suggest you order soon as they get snapped up fast.

An Ungaro jacket on archivevintage.com

A stunning Yves Saint Laurent jacket on archivevintage.com

The same rules above apply to jewellery and/or clothes. So to summarize the tips; shape, era, functionality, authenticity of the website and price are all factors to consider before purchasing vintage goodies, designer or non-designer.

Vintage Chanel earrings on thevintagecontessa.com

Whimsical Jewelry & Accessories by Yaz Bukey

The other day whilst browsing through the street style photos on Style.com, I came across an image of a woman wearing a pretty funky necklace and I couldn’t for the love of god figure out where that necklace was from. Today, as I opened Style.com, that very designer (Yaz Bukey) was featured on their website (yaay for me!!). Instantly, I delved into more research about her and I am now absolutely in love with her designs. I can never bring myself to wear the usual thin chains or cute type necklaces. For me, when I buy a neck piece; it has to be the focal point of my silhouette.  I don’t have a single necklace that doesn’t make a statement which is why, I always take my time in purchasing one. Now, I need not look any further!

A woman photographed by Tommy Ton for Style.com wearing a Yazbukey necklace

Anyways so back to this cool designer I’ve just discovered, Yaz Bukey; she fits the criteria of statement jewellery and accessories to the T. Well, all her neck pieces aren’t super chunky or anything, they’re just extremely funky with an element of pop art in them and really stand out. Brooches, handbags, scarves, earrings, necklaces; all of them are so whimsical it’s hard not to be lusting after every single piece.

Yazbukey SS 13

Yazbukey SS 13

Who is she you say? Well in the literal sense, she’s an Ottoman princess whose family reigned over Egypt and one of her ancestors is a former king of Egypt, Mehemet Ali Pasha. Royalty aside, her past employers have been Maison Martin Margiela and Givenchy, however she set sail to launch her own line, Yazbukey in 2000.

Her Plexiglas necklaces take you to a fantasy land and can be anything from lipsticks to bare legs with red shoes or even your favourite idol (Anna Wintour, Karl Lagerfeld, Boy George, Naomi Campbell and Michael Jackson). One of my favourite pieces from her SS 2011 collection was a necklace comprising of 5 manicured middle fingers, and I am trying super hard to find that somewhere online, even though chances are very slim! Oh god, I went through the same dilemma when I discovered the Prada banana earrings two seasons too late. Anyways, if anyone can manage to figure out where I can purchase it from, please send me a message on our Facebook page.

However, I am also in love with her FW 13 collection, “Murder She Wrote”, inspired by Agatha Christie novels and a famous television show. A mirror that looks like a magnifying glass with a cartoon eye on it, a pouch with a picture of a bottle of poison and a teacup to open the zipper, a heart and dagger head piece, a purse with multiple mysterious elements on them (makes me feel like a detective!); Uh Oh, I’m this close to placing my order online!

A page from the FW 13 lookbook

Click here to purchase the detective bag and here to purchase the poisonous tea pouch.Check out her fabulous collection of other goodies online whilst you’re at it! I have managed to figure out where you can order some of her stuff online.. The sad part is, it’s not the entire collection. Oh well, I guess I now somehow need to plan a trip to Paris so I can get my hands on some YAZBUKEY goodies!! For now, I am eyeing some necklaces and brooches that are available to order online. 

Click here to purchase the Anna Wintour necklace, here for the Karl Lagerfeld brooch and here for the blow dry mirror. 

The MIA factor and my favorite shots from Tommy Ton for Style.com

Hello everyone! Yes, I know I have again been MIA, and with good reason. As I had mentioned in one of my older posts, I would be touring with the husband for one of his cricket productions which honestly left me with no time! The tour began with London, where I got busy with partying and shopping, moving on to Scotland, where I managed to squeeze some time to post, then Amsterdam and finally we decided to holiday for a few days in my most favourite city ever, Florence!

So now that the insane summer travel is over, I’m back in Dubai for a few days before I head back to Delhi (so excited!) and I’m also back in action.

Anyways, as you all may have known by now, the Paris couture shows and menswear shows have recently wrapped up leaving us with some dreamy collections, and of course some crazy street style photography. I have always been a huge Tommy Ton fan, so here are some of my favourite shots from Tommy Ton for Style.com.

 

 

 

 

 

Five Things of Fancy

Alright guys we know we have been kind of MOA from the blog for a week, but sometimes things just get so busy for both of us and it is difficult to post -- we do not like to do half-arsed jobs, it takes a lot of effort. This whole week has been kind of a mess for me -- bad experiences galore including being very very sick as I write this, three chipped nails, and a weight-disc slipping bam on my feet (ouch) and me doubling over in pain -- okay, I am a major clutz! But now I have bounced back in total action with the start of a new week.  Pray it lasts. I wanted to update you guys on 'five things of fancy' that's been at the back of my mind alongside writing something about my own style (I will ask Hanadi to post one on her style which by the way I think screams refined non-fussy chic). Here's your dose:

Five Things of Fancy

1. I was browsing Modaoperandi and Ostwald-Helgason Resort 2014 hems caught my eye! You like? Piped and perfected, I loved the contrast detail -- nothing new you may say but look at that finish!

Ostwald Helgason Resort 2014

2. This pink-animal print merchandise from Katie Grand Love Hogan that you can shop from here. The have super-cute phone covers and things as well, and the print is available in standard black and white. You may consider them a bit too pricey for faux material, but what can I say? Hello! Collectibles!

Katie Grand Loves Hogan Pouch and Flats

3. The photo diary of Anna Sui on her Tanzania trip showcased on Style.com capturing candid and livid images of the designer's escapade to the the wilds.

Designer Anna Sui on Tanzanian adventures

4. This very pretty spread we had prepared at work showcasing country-specific designer goodies. Shown here are the American masters and British eccentricities at their best.

American and British Designers

5. The magnificent result of the most awe-som-est collaboration -- these hyper-cute mascaras designed by Alber Elbaz of Lanvin for Lancome (which Hanadi is already a proud owner of and I am soon to be!).

Alber Elbaz for Lancome

Now after these, let me introduce our dear readers to my sense of personal style. Regular followers already know that I often tend to contradict myself -- I swing to extremes such as a day of super bling to a downcast approach. Here's some more regarding my closet, dressing and beauty habits.

1. I am loaded on blouses of all kinds -- sheers, ruffles, pussy-bows -- you name it I have it in every colour of the rainbow minus prints. I pair them with solid pants, ballet pumps, a sling bang -- overload on the mascara and coral lipstick -- and I am set for a casual evening out.
2. At one point of time, my shoe collection touched 200 pairs -- no labels except some but mostly stuff I picked off from everywhere I went -- and stuff that I never would dare wear in public. Now I have to smuggle shoes inside my house after removing the tags as my folks kind of throw a fit.
3. I only wear red or orange nail-paint. I have done this for 4+ years now. When I get too sick, I do a French manicure.
4. I have recently developed this obsession for trying out different facials. Now today I sit with a burnt upper-lip because of a reaction.
5. I loathe jeans. I only wear them to work or in situations where I dont care about dressing well. I guess I never found the pair made for me.
6. I love anti-fit silhouettes when it comes to my dresses -- cocoon and trapeze being the most common. These total upto about 31in my closet.
7. I buy new outfits and forget about them, often (you can guess my wardrobe is a nightmare).
8. I plan on my dressing about a day in advance if I have to go out. It would otherwise be a disaster in my room from too many trials.
9. All my prized ensembles are tailored -- never ready-brought. Nothing exudes the classic fit of made to order garments. These include jumpsuits and palazzos too which I think most people get a wrong fit out of.
10. Essentials I think every woman should have -- pearl or solitaire studs, sleeve-free leotards with fitted bras instead of stupid 'spaghetti tops or tubes' to layer under sheer shirts (black/ white/ skin), signature day and night perfumes, a sizeable collection of delicious lip balms and glosses, sweats that make you look sexy in black or navy (I cannot stress enough on the versatility of these), label flip flops and I don't mean Puma, a high-quality lace-up corset that would change the way you look at yourself in a mirror, pumps in peep-toe, round-toed and pointy (my signature shade is red), and lastly, black pants that fit you like a second-skin without the slightest hint of a camel-toe!

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.