meraldia

Still working...

2010-07-28T19:58:00.003+03:00

Still working while my friends are somewhere here..sigh..

My outfit makes me at least feel better (I am such a superficial person, I know.)

Blue dress Mango

and a wooden necklace handcrafted (by me) during the weekend.

Malachite pendant

2010-07-20T18:00:00.000+03:00

Malachite gemstone in ancient times was believed to ward off disease, lightning and witchcraft.

Today it is believed to absorb negative energy and to guard against radiation...

...and to release old traumas.

Even the World Cup Trophy has a malachite base.

This malachite pendant I was wearing on Friday was made in my workshop two years ago for my mum's name day. I used 925 sterling silver and this marvelous gemstone. I chose malachite because my mum's eyes have its color. Well, my eyes don't but some times I can't resist and I borrow the pendant.

Thank you, mum, for the inspiration (and for allowing me to wear it)!

Casual Friday

2010-07-16T11:45:00.001+03:00

Even on casual Fridays black color on the outfit is still necessary.

I wore a green Springfield tee and beige Anne Kein flats but the skirt should be black (to avoid boss' weird look).

Enjoy your weekend!!

Maxi dress and citrine necklace

2010-07-12T00:03:00.002+03:00

This summer I am obsessed with maxi dresses. They are feminine, stylish and comfortable at the same time.

This is the dress I wore yesterday. Bought two years ago from a tiny shop in London and still one of my favorites.

Styled with Anne Klein sandals

and a simple handcrafted (by me) necklace with citrine gemstone nuggets.

Earrings for the Summer

2010-07-04T18:34:00.000+03:00

Back to creations (at last!) with two pairs of earrings especially designed for the summer nights.

I have used sterling silver 925 as well as a blue cotton cord and a light purple organza.

I hope that summer will be as colorful and 'happy' as my new earrings.

Thank you, Crispy!

2010-07-02T16:31:00.000+03:00

Απούσα τόσες μέρες από το διαδίκτυο, δεν μπόρεσα να ευχαριστήσω την Crispy για το βραβείο που μου έδωσε!

Με τη σειρά μου θα το περάσω στη Vipera Lebetina γιατί παρότι ακόμα έφηβη έχει ένα σπινθηροβόλο πνεύμα που μ' εντυπωσιάζει!

xoxo

More color, please..!

2010-06-21T18:20:00.002+03:00

Summer is here and summer means color.

In home decoration...

in home objects...

and of course, more and more color in outfits!

skirt Warehouse, top Esprit, shoes Ecco

xoxo

The New Acropolis Museum

2010-06-13T17:05:00.000+03:00

(photos from www.newacropolismuseum.gr)

My first visit to the New Acropolis Museum left me the finest impressions. I spent the whole day there which was very beneficial and inspiring.

I also had lunch at the museum's restaurant...

...and bought some gifts from the museum's shop just to remember this great day.

Home decoration

and replicas of ancient toys for my nieces

I spent a lot of time in The Archaic and The Parthenon Gallery. I was really impressed by the minimalistic lines of ancient Greek art. I feel new projects inspired by this visit coming into my mind...

Turquoise Earrings

2010-06-06T00:00:00.002+03:00

Summer is here (at last!) and turquoise is the official gemstone of the new season.

So, the first creation for this summer is a pair of earrings especially designed for my dearest friend Marina. I have used sterling silver 925 and of course, turquoise gemstones...

...while the technique of hammering adds an ancient look to the earrings.

I hope she will enjoy her present!

Summer. At last.

2010-06-01T00:01:00.001+03:00

Summer. At last.

(photo taken at Myrtos beach, Kefallonia last summer).

Vintage dress

2010-05-24T17:20:00.000+03:00

Today I wore my mum's vintage dress..

...Unfortunately she kept only few..

I also wore her vintage shoes

Now I have to thank the dearest blogger Joanaddicted for the Queen Award! Thank you so much!! You made my day! You can visit her blog here and see all her crazy and stylish outfits! Thank you again!!

xoxo

Tourmaline earrings

2010-05-10T20:46:00.000+03:00

Today I am presenting you a new version of the coral earrings. I have used the same design but I replaced coral with my favorite gemstone, tourmaline.

How much I love this gemstone!

For this pair I used as usual 925 sterling silver.

And as they look from the back side

Happy new week everyone!

Meraldia @ Ermoumag

2010-05-02T11:50:00.001+03:00

My creations were presented last week at Ermoumag! Ermoumag is an online magazine of fashion and shopping, based in Athens but with news from Greece, Europe and all over the world.

This is a pair of earrings I created specifically for the readers of this online magazine. The earrings are made of 925 sterling silver and red cotton cord. So, you can win this giveaway by leaving a comment at Ermoumag!

And all these, thanks to my dearest co-blogger Nina. You can visit her blog here and see many vintage and retro outfits as well as many information about ethical shopping.

Thank you, Nina, so much!!

Flower Pendant

2010-04-25T18:20:00.001+03:00

It seems that I do like flowers! After two pendants and a pair of earrings , now another pendant inspired by spring flowers. Enjoy!

While creating, I have taken some pictures to show you a part of the procedure:

then..

...and finally featuring:

Before wishing you all a happy new week I have to thank the dearest co blogger Nells for the blog award! Thank you, darling, you simply made my day!

xoxo

Coral Earrings

2010-04-11T13:55:00.000+03:00

Back to creations again with a new pair of earrings!

Coral gemstones...

... 925 sterling silver

and the result..

xoxo

Easter Goodies

2010-04-07T21:25:00.000+03:00

I came back from holidays with a suitcase full of pictures, wonderful memories and Easter goodies my grandma had made! We spent a lot of time together these days and I really enjoyed it since I don't see her very often (unfortunately). This is how she made these delicious traditional cakes:

Baking..

Preparing the oven with firewoods..

Oops! I hope the neighbors didn't mind all this smoke!

After a while..

Enjoy!!

That was the day's outfit:

I must not forget to thank the co-blogger Mimi for the Purple Fairy award! Thank you, darling, you made my day!

Leaving for Easter Holidays

2010-04-01T15:48:00.000+03:00

Greek Easter is on Sunday and today I am leaving for holidays at the countryside with my family!

I will be somewhere here...

...with these friends

...making these delicious Easter cakes

and with no laptop!

But before leaving I have to thank the dearest co-blogger Carrie for the Sunshine award! Thank you darling, you made my day!!

Desigual Skirt

2010-03-28T19:19:00.000+03:00

This is my today's outfit..

...Desigual skirt, Mango leather jacket..

...Clarks Mary Janes...

...and Massimo Dutti leather bag

I like very much this Desigual skirt and especially the details and patterns. I bought it last year but for some reason -I don't know why- this is the first time I put it on!

Spring Bouquet Ring

2010-03-24T20:29:00.002+02:00

Spring is in the air...

and it's so inspiring!

A new ring made of wire and colorful gemstones...

turquoise, black jade and coral.

Spring is in the air at last!!!

To Clog or Not To Clog?

2010-03-21T17:25:00.002+02:00

(photo: asos.com

There is something about clogs this season. Chanel and Louis Vuitton clogs appeared at Paris Fashion Week. The Olsen twins, Alexa Chung and Vera Wang were spotted in clogs.

(photo: asos.com)

So, what do you think? Will the clog be your next shoe? Will you follow this trend?

(Michael Kors clog, photo: shoes.com)

Definitely clogs are not for me. What about you? To clog or not to clog?

After all these questions, I have to thank the dearest co blogger Irene for the blog award! Thank you, darling, you made my day!

It's a Woman's world

2010-03-19T13:16:00.000+02:00

Thank you very much, Rachel , for the tag!

This is my favorite handbag: a prehistoric Missoni Sport bag and all the stuff I usually carry with me.

Korres hand cream, Castalia sun cream, Shiseido powder, Clinique lip gloss, Apivita lip balm, Dr. Muller pastilles, my cell phone et bien sur, a usb memory stick.

I wish you all a wonderful weekend!

Japanese Seed Beads Bracelet: Charlotte's Web

2010-03-13T22:45:00.000+02:00

The inspiration:

Yesterday I watched (again) Charlotte's web with my nieces. They adore this film. I really don't remember how many times they have watched it since the film release! Charlotte's cute web was the inspiration for a bracelet I made today.

This time I didn't use sterling silver. I just played with dark colored Japanese seed beads and wire.

It really reminds me of Charlotte's web!

Now I have to make another two bracelets because both of my nieces also want to wear it!!

Fair Trade: People Tree Cardigan

2010-03-07T17:43:00.000+02:00

I love receiving packages from the post office! Maybe this is reason I cannot resist the online shopping.

This time I shopped with responsibility.

I chose a handmade People Tree cardigan (Fair Trade) bought from asos.com

And details...

And now I have to thank the sweet co blogger Charry for the Sunshine Award! I am now passing this award to:

1) Ela

2) Haute World

3) Nathalie

4) Erika

for their lovely blogs!

Have a wonderful new week everyone!

Flower Earrings

2010-02-28T17:02:00.001+02:00

Do you remember this flower pendant? You can see the creative procedure here.

Today I will show you a pair of earrings in a similar design. Voila:

I also used sterling silver 925..

and Rhodonite gemstone.

I think it's obvious how much I need spring to come at last!!!

Happy new month everyone!

Lapis Lazuli Brooch

2010-02-21T17:52:00.000+02:00

First of all I have to thank the dearest co blogger Nina for the Doll Award. You can visit her blog here and see the great shoes she wears.

And now I will show you the handmade (by me) brooch that completed my outfit in the previous post.

I have used sterling silver wire..

and one of my favorite gemstones, Lapis Lazuli

which I love for its vivid color.

I wish you all a happy new week!

(cardigan Full Circle, asos.com)

DKNY over knee boots

2010-02-19T20:04:00.002+02:00

What is hiding in there?

My new (and the last, I hope) treasure from sales!

I resisted for a long time but finally I said "yes" to the over knees boots.

Details..

I wore them today and I am very pleased: they are extremely comfortable and keep me warm at the same time. I couldn't ask for more.

I really don't mind spending money on shoes. Actually, I prefer spending on shoes rather than on clothes. Because I stand on my shoes the whole day. My sensitive spine and my whole body stands and depends on them. So, I am very happy with my new treasure!

xxxx

Carnival Parade and Masque Party!

2010-02-15T11:52:00.000+02:00

Participating at the Carnival Parade with my Dance School!

And dressed as a maid at the masque party

where my boy revealed his real intentions!

An unexpected Visitor: a Butterfly

2010-02-07T22:03:00.000+02:00

An unexpected visitor at my balcony in the middle of winter.

Is it a sign that spring is ahead?

A Desigual Coat. Again.

2010-01-31T08:05:00.002+02:00

It's official. I am addicted to Desigual coats.

I just cannot resist.

Is it my fault?

History of a Pendant: Step by Step

2010-01-24T18:02:00.003+02:00

Today I will share with you the procedure of creating a jewel: from silver nuggets to a pendant ready to wear!

Melting pure silver nuggets to a solid silver block:

After passing the solid block from the rolling mill a few times and cutting the rough edges I have produced a silver plate:

Cutting the shape of a flower:

Adding a soldering silver ball...

and silver wire:

Soldering procedure:

Then:

After polishing the pendant:

And finally, the best part: wearing the pendant and feel happy!!

More and more rings

2010-01-17T18:35:00.000+02:00

Winter is at last here. The last couple of days it rains heavily and it's freezing. I spent the whole Saturday at home drinking tea, tidying up my closet (not so easy!) and creating new things. Two new rings:

And part of the procedure: Firing

And another one more abstract and similar to this:

I wish you all a happy new week!!!

Sales ...Sales Vol.2: Shirt Dress

2010-01-14T22:43:00.000+02:00

I am in love with my latest buy: a 'strict' black and white shirt dress, an ideal 'uniform' for work.

Sometimes I feel suffocated in work's dress code. But wearing my new dress and my adorable Mary Jane shoes I feel much better!

And I like its embroidery!

925 Sterling Silver Wire Ring

2010-01-10T16:53:00.000+02:00

This is my first creation for the new year: a wire ring!

I used 925 sterling silver wire.

And then I played with my new ring, my garden's flowers and my Nikon camera!

My boyfriend said that it looks like a wedding ring. Oops!! Did I imply something?!

Sales ... sales!!!

2010-01-06T20:24:00.001+02:00

Sales at last!!

My first buys are Anne Klein flats, 50% off their original price. I couldn't resist to buy the same design in two different colors.

One in black color

and another in brown.

They are very comfortable, so I don't regret it!

First Outfit of 2010

2010-01-02T14:46:00.003+02:00

Happy New Year!!!

This is the first outfit of 2010, the first outfit of the new decade.

dress Sarah Lawrence, polo neck Mango, handmade pearl necklace , Missoni bag...

...and another Desigual coat.

It was love at first sight!

These are some of my sister's specialties cooked for the family dinner:

I wish you all a Happy and Stylish 2010!!!

Christmas Presents: Just For Fun Earrings

2009-12-24T09:34:00.003+02:00

This post is for the dearest co-blogger Stella who wanted to see jewellery especially designed for Christmas!

Well, these days I have been working very hard and I didn't have enough time for myself (again). But I had to find time to create some jewels for my beloved persons and especially for my cute nieces. I have been playing with beads, cords and ribbons et voila the results:

These are made for the little one

And for my older niece I made this pair:

I hope they will enjoy their handmade just for fun presents! I also hope this weekend to create something new for myself as well!

Merry Christmas everyone!!

Christmas preview

2009-12-20T18:18:00.000+02:00

Santa came earlier this year with many delicious presents!

Couldn't wait till Christmas lunch, so..

It was indeed very delicious but now ...I have to spend three days in the swimming pool to burn the calories!!

A Desigual Coat and Earrings with Ribbons

2009-12-13T16:38:00.001+02:00

These days it was raining heavily and so, I decided to take my Desigual coat out of the closet. It's the first time I wear it after I bought it last January. Coats are my new obsession and this one is one of my favorites!

What I like about the Desigual brand is the colorful designs. I feel like this coat gives color to the gloomy winter and at the same time it keeps me warm. What else can I ask for?

I love the patterns and the details.

And the matching earrings: completely different than my previous creations!

These are made with riverstone gemstones, colorful Japanese glass, cord and ribbon. I have used a surgical steel earring hook ideal for people who suffer from allergies (like me).

I wish you all a colorful and happy new week!!!

Jewels inspired by the sea (or by David Attenborough)

2009-12-06T18:32:00.001+02:00

The jewels I am presenting you today (a pendant and a pair of earrings) are inspired by the sea. My inspiration maybe stems from the fact that I have been watching for days David Attenborough (The Blue Planet). Omg, I have learnt in one single week everything that I didn't get in Biology classes at school. I was impressed by the shear and wild beauty of the stingray fish.

The pendant...

...and the matching pair of earrings

The gemstone for this project was also originated by the sea. I couldn't choose anything else than sponge.

The Bell Earrings

2009-11-29T13:04:00.001+02:00

I had many plans for the weekend but unfortunately I stayed home (sigh..) because of a flu. Well, the good news of staying home is that I spent many hours in my workshop designing and creating! The result was a pair of 830 silver earrings with curves that remind me of bells.

The curve was shaped using this tool (one of my favorites)

I couldn't do anything more, though I have a pendant in my mind. I hope I will feel much better tomorrow!

A Package For Me

2009-11-27T22:25:00.003+02:00

At last, this morning I received my package from amazon.co.uk with my new Fly shoes

And since one pair is not enough...

My new shoes from Clarks. Because a working girl needs to feel comfortable at the office (and while waiting in the long queues in the shops)!

And because all the nice things happen on Friday, I was awarded by the dearest blogger Haute World. Thank you so much, you made my day!! Happy weekend everyone!

Voila Mes Creations: a Ring And Bracelets!!

2009-11-22T13:52:00.010+02:00

It was a very busy and creative week! After melting the pure silver it was casted in this form.

And the result was this beautiful ring...

...as well as these hammered bracelets...

I am currently working on a pendant and a pair of earrings. I will also post photos of the new designs as soon as they are ready. I wish all a happy new week!!

New Supplies: Pure Silver

2009-11-14T07:13:00.007+02:00

Yesterday I went shopping! I didn't buy more clothes or shoes (although I desperately need to!) but more supplies for my workshop.

This is the purest form of silver you can buy, 999.

It's very soft for making jewelry, so it is hardened to 925 or 830 (melted and mixed with copper) and casted into plates of wire.

I can't wait to start a new project. For the moment, I wish you all a happy weekend!

History of a jewel: a sterling silver pendant II

2009-11-08T14:50:00.018+02:00

I have already said that I don't like autumn and winter at all. I desperately want my spring and summer back, aghh!!. Well, I know that I cannot do anything about that. Though, I can still design and create things that remind me of my favorite seasons and cheer me up! So, last week I created a pendant inspired by flowers. I used sterling silver 925 and a turquoise cabochon.

I was too lazy to design in by hand, so I used CAD software.

Hammering

I couldn't decide which cabochon to choose. Red jade, amethyst or turquoise? At the end, I chose turquoise because it's a summer color.

Soldering

...et voila!

Finally, me featuring the pendant.

Now, I am in a better mood! I can wear my pendant knowing that spring is not too far!! Happy week everyone!

I Love Embroidery!

2009-11-01T17:05:00.011+02:00

Remember this silk skirt I bought on August? I wore it yesterday for the first time and I feel excited! I love its embroidered patterns very much! I felt really good in this outfit.

I combined it with a white NaraCamicie shirt I bought on summer sales.

Detail of the skirt's pattern.

I didn't want to wear any jewelry with this skirt because it would be too much, I think. But I couldn't resist wearing these handmade (by me) earrings. I used sterling silver 925 and red coral beads. My boyfriend thinks they look rather 'primitive'. What do you think?

The Project: Pearls...Pearls

2009-10-28T14:58:00.018+02:00

After my laziness during the weekend I decided to start creating again. I watched many old films these days (East of Eden, Giant, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof) and I was in a very 1950s and 1960s mood. So, I was inspired by the most elegant woman of those days, Jackie Kennedy Onassis who loved wearing pearls.

Style icon: Jackie Kennedy Onassis wearing pearls

I chose many freshwater cultured pearls in different colors and made a long, long, necklace that can be worn in many different ways such as this ...

...or this

or even this...

...why not as a bracelet as well!

Because some times, a simple black dress and a few strands of pearls are enough for an elegant outfit!

Weekend: It's Time to Relax

2009-10-24T20:35:00.007+03:00

Weekend at last! It was a very tiring and stressful week so today I wanted so much to relax. I did absolutely nothing and I enjoyed it! Last night I went to bed early, I got up early and I spent the whole morning in my balcony reading The Moon Is Down by Steinbeck, my favorite author.

I needed a simple outfit for this relaxing day: jeans, white shirt and a pearl necklace.

Tonight I won't go out. I will watch (again) East of Eden and I will go to bed early.

Style Icon: Marion Cotillard

2009-10-21T17:40:00.008+03:00

Marion Cottilard: great actress and great outfits

Elegant...

...Classy

...glamorous

(photos via style.com)

...and the new Lady Dior

Isn't she inspiring?

Meet the Relatives: Dress Code

2009-10-17T12:15:00.015+03:00

So, what is the dress code for formal dinners with your boyfriend's family?

Last night I had to attend a formal dinner at my boyfriend's house with all his relatives. Aghh. I hate these occasions. For the whole week I was looking again and again in my closet, trying many outfits. And certainly I could not wear something like these...

...Or even this

(photos:style.com)

I could imagine his aged aunts whispering while drinking herbal tea about my aggressive outfit. At last, I decided to wear this:

Skirt and tee by Esprit, scarf Benetton and handmade (by me) bracelet.

Coming soon: How I made my bracelet step by step! See you soon! Have a stylish weekend!

PS: the dinner was very booooooring.. as expected!

Autumn days in the countryside

2009-10-11T20:50:00.019+03:00

As I have said again, I live for a weekend! Especially when I am out of town I feel very relaxed. This weekend I had a wonderful time as I visited my mum's relatives at the country. I stayed in their home built in the traditional way.

I helped them with the household...

...played with animals and birds...

... watched them making their own spirited drinks which was an exciting experience

And all these wearing my new pair of jeans and top from Sarah Lawrence and ballerina shoes.

I can't wait to visit them again!

The Scarlet Letter

2009-10-07T19:18:00.009+03:00

Yesterday, I decided after a very long time to wear pants

with this Chinese-style shirt from Mango which I love very much.

My red eye-glasses

And of course, a pair of handmade earrings I made on Saturday. Red coral and 9.25 sterling silver. Simple and elegant! xxxx

New neighbor

2009-10-03T20:08:00.007+03:00

A week ago a new neighbor arrived...

.... I immediately I welcomed him with a generous meal!

He is very playful and that's why I am very fond of him!

I love it when new neighbors arrive!

Dress up!

2009-09-30T18:48:00.011+03:00

Today I needed an elegant and classy outfit for a business meeting. So, I chose to wear a dress from Lanidor which I bought during the summer sales for 50 euro and Mary Jane shoes from Faith. I feel very good in this outfit!

I love Mary Jane shoes!!

History of a sterling silver pendant

2009-09-26T17:00:00.024+03:00

Last week I created a sterling silver pendant adorned with a small amethyst bead which I love very much. Today I am presenting you step by step the creative procedure!

First of all, I designed the pendant on a piece of paper:

Then...

Cutting

Filing

Forming

Hammering
Now the pieces are ready for soldering

Polishing

As I first imagined...

And finally ... featuring!

It was a fine day!!!

Silversmith: My Tiny Workshop

2009-09-20T12:27:00.024+03:00

My workshop is always a mess! This weekend I finally managed to tidy the chaos and therefore, I can now present you the place where I design and create my jewelry. I am very happy to see it tidy .... till the next project!

Before the weekend... a mess

...After

Pliers

Hammers and Ring Mandrels

Basic Soldering Tools

Polishing Tools

My favorite Stanley tool

Essential Filing tools

and the basic materiel... Sterling silver

Forming Tools

Measuring Tools

Part of my colorful beading world

My favorite gemstone... Tourmaline nuggets

Cords, Threads and Ribbons

Toronto Film Festival 2009: the outfits

2009-09-18T16:05:00.020+03:00

I enjoy looking at celebrities' outfits on the red carpet! It's a great opportunity for inspiration, I think. Although, this time I was not excited with all the dresses.

I liked Paula Patton

and Megan Fox...

...as well as her shoes

But I liked most Patricia Clarkson...

and Jennifer Conelli

I didn't like Kristin Scott Thomas and Julianne Moore

And of course, looking at this outfit and hair, I said no, no, no.

(photos Reuter)

A delicious meal: pasta with vegetables!

2009-09-15T18:36:00.004+03:00

Today I had a really bad day. One of those days that everything goes wrong.. I came home late and very tired and it was a pleasant surprise that my lovely sister had cooked a delicious meal for me! Pasta with vegetables, one of my favorites.
Thank you sis, you are the best!!

I live for a weekend!

2009-09-13T19:23:00.016+03:00

It was a wonderful weekend! I spent my time outside with friends I hadn't seen for a long time and I really enjoyed it. It was also a great opportunity to wear once more my favorite summer dresses and say goodbye to them since autumn is very close..

Chatting with my crazy friends in a cafe. And yes, I am Minni Mouse!

This is one of my favorite Attrativo dresses.

Khaki dress and Anne Klein sandals.

Colorful dress and handmade (by me, of course) necklace.

Cat on a hot tin roof

2009-09-12T12:05:00.014+03:00

This post is for the dearest creative fellow blogger KnottyCat. I present you my adorable cats..

Το μικρούλι αισθάνεται ασφάλεια πίσω απ' τα κλαδιά της ελιάς. Δεν μας έχει συνηθίσει ακόμα.

Μάνα και γιος. Κλασικό δίδυμο ακόμα και στα ζώα! Αρχίζω ν' ανησυχώ για το γάτο. Θεωρείται ενήλικας και όμως αποζητά ακόμα τα χάδια της μάνας του (που έχει αρχίσει να τον γράφει κανονικά όμως).

Η φωτογραφία τραβήχτηκε το καλοκαίρι. Φοβερή ζέστη και η αφεντιά της ξαπλώνει στο περβάζι του δωματίου μου. Μόλις ακούσει βήματα στο διάδρομο βάζει νωχελικά το κεφάλι της μέσα.

Εδώ θηλάζει τα μικρά.

I really can't remember the site I found these two pictures but I really love them!!

Χθες το βράδυ αποκοιμήθηκα διαβάζοντας...

Christian Lacroix forever...

2009-09-09T21:32:00.020+03:00

Every beginning of a new season I like browsing designers' sites to get inspired. Etro, Oscar de la Renta, Chanel, Gucci, Marni are some of them. This year what makes me really sad is the fact that Christian Lacroix Fall collection 2009 was apparently the final. The French designer filed for bankruptcy due to the economic downturn. His last show was presented in July. I still hope that he will be able to attract investors. It is really sad when a legendary designer such as Lacroix closes doors.
It maybe is another proof that fashion is not contemporary art but industry...

Δύσκολοι καιροί για πρίγκιπες...

(photos: nymag.com, spring collection 2003, spring collection 2008, fall collection 2009, pre fall 2009)

Venice Film Festival 2009: a taste of red carpet

2009-09-04T19:57:00.019+03:00

Eva Mendes in a Dolce & Gabbana resort 2010 dress

Photo vogue.co.uk

(photo Reuter)

Looking tired though..

(photo AFP)

..But classy in this lace silk dress, holding a Salvatore Ferragamo bag

(photo vogue.co.uk)

Maria Cuccinota in Roberto Cavalli

(photo vogue.co.uk)

(Photo AFP)

Renault team boss Flavio Briatore and Elisabetta Gregoraci

(photo vogue.co.uk)

Italian actress Laura Chiatti in Prada

(photo vogue.co.uk)

Another Dolce & Gabbana dress worn by actress Margareth Madè

(photo vogue.co.uk)

Vogue Italia's Franca Sozzani

(photo vogue.co.uk)

Pier Silvio Berlusconi and his wife

(photo reuter)

Sex and the City: Sequel

2009-09-02T19:26:00.023+03:00

Is Sarah Jessica Parker starring in Dynasty?

Is Carrie Bradshaw traveling to Denver to visit Alexis?

(photos: dailymail.co.uk)

WHERE IS THIS CARRIE BRADSHAW?

(photos: hbo.com)

A farewell to summer…

2009-09-01T18:14:00.005+03:00

September… Back to work today… I will miss swimming, sunbathing, the sound of the waves and my summer dresses…

…Ω λινό καλοκαίρι, συνετό φθινόπωρο… (Ο. Ελύτης, Λακωνικόν)

(paintings by Nikolaos Lytras)

Last summer days in the country…

2009-08-30T21:35:00.019+03:00

Summer is the season I love most and I feel sad that it came to an end so soon. I chose to spend these last summer days in the country where the colors are always brighter and the sounds clearer. And on Tuesday back to work. I am already missing summer…

And nostalgic images: an old taxi and an equally old sign of a tiny supermarket.

Long live the bride and groom!!

2009-08-26T19:09:00.017+03:00

On Saturday I attended a family friend’s wedding. I didn’t have to think much about my outfit. My favorite Jane Norman evening dress was just perfect for the occasion. And fortunately, the couple had made a wedding gift list so, I didn’t have to spend hours in the market looking desperately for the ideal present.

Στην τελευταία φωτογραφία ένα αμφιβόλου αισθητικής διακοσμητικό. Άβυσσος η ψυχή των διακοσμητών...

Theatre: a great source of inspiration

2009-08-16T16:28:00.008+03:00

When I was a little girl, every Sunday afternoon my beloved grandma took me either to the cinema or the theatre. I remember myself looking greedily at the actresses' costumes and jewelry. Since then, my outfits or picks are very often influenced by the stage.

Last month, when I traveled in Kefallonia for my summer holidays, I attended the performance "Don Quixote" which I strongly recommend for my Greek readers. The cast's acting was really good but I was fascinated by the main actresses's dress which stole the show. I fell in love with that dress and I just could not stop thinking about it. Until last Wednesday, I was lucky enough to enter a tiny shop and discovered a treasure: a long, 100% silk, handmade skirt very similar to it!! This purchase has made me very happy and creative.

I have already handcrafted a long necklace with red jade, hemalyte and glass beads and currently I am in the process of making two pairs of silver earrings to fit the skirt! Oh, I am sooo excited and I can’t wait of wearing it!!

'Όταν ήμουν πολύ μικρή, η πολυαγαπημένη μου γιαγιά με έπαιρνε μαζί της κάθε Κυριακή απόγευμα στο θέατρο ή στον κινηματογράφο. Θυμάμαι τον εαυτό μου να κοιτάζει αχόρταγα τα κοστούμια των ηθοποιών, τις κομμώσεις και τα κοσμήματά τους. Από τότε, πολλές φορές, οι επιλογές μου είναι επηρεασμένες από παραστάσεις και ταινίες.

Κατά τη διάρκεια της παραμονής μου στην Κεφαλλονιά τον προηγούμενο μήνα, παρακολουθήσαμε την παράσταση του ΔΗ.ΠΕ.ΘΕ Κοζάνης "Δον Κιχώτης" με τον Κιμούλη και τον Πιατά. Η παράσταση ήταν πραγματικά πολύ προσεγμένη, οι ερμηνείες πολύ καλές και γι' αυτό τη συστήνω ανεπιφύλακτα. Αυτό που με μάγεψε όμως ήταν τα κοστούμια των ηθοποιών σχεδιασμένα από το Γιάννη Μετζικώφ και πιο συγκεκριμένα το φόρεμα της Αντόλσας-Δουλτσινέας. Τριγύριζε συνέχεια στο μυαλό μου ώσπου την Τετάρτη που μας πέρασε σ' ένα μικροσκοπικό μαγαζάκι στο οποίο έμπαινα για πρώτη φορά, ανακάλυψα μια χειροποίητη, μακριά φούστα από 100% μετάξι που μου θύμισε πολύ έντονα το φόρεμα της Δουλτσινέας. Η συγκεκριμένη αγορά με έκανε πολύ χαρούμενη και δημιουργική. Έχω ήδη φτιάξει ένα μακρύ κολιέ από κόκκινο νεφρίτη, hemalyte και γυάλινες πέτρες ενώ από σήμερα δουλεύω πάνω σε δύο ζευγάρια σκουλαρίκια από ασήμι που ταιριάζουν με τη φούστα.

Κύριε Μετζικώφ, σας ευχαριστώ πολύ..

Shopping always makes things easier (what a surprise!)

2009-08-08T17:03:00.013+03:00

Returning home from holidays is not always easy. In fact, it is not easy at all. Fortunately, there is a magic word that helps all fashionistas to adjust themselves to the after-holidays-situation: Shopping!

So, this Saturday morning I went shopping with my friends and these are my new belongings. And, what a surprise! I feel much better now!

Η επιστροφή από τις διακοπές στην πόλη και την καθημερινότητα δεν είναι πάντοτε μια εύκολη υπόθεση. Για να είμαστε ειλικρινείς, ποτέ δεν είναι. Και πάλι, όμως, ευτυχώς υπάρχει μια μαγική λέξη που κάνει τα πράγματα πολύ καλύτερα: Shopping!

Έτσι, σήμερα το πρωί πήγα για ψώνια παρέα με τις φίλες μου και σας παρουσιάζω τα καινούρια μου αποκτήματα. Και, τι έκπληξη: Αισθάνομαι ήδη πολύ καλύτερα

Sex and the City auditions: a place in the sun

2009-08-05T17:00:00.005+03:00

Many fashionistas standing in line for hours, wearing their Manolo Blahnik heels and hoping for a place in the sun..

10 things about me

2009-08-04T22:44:00.026+03:00

(Thank you Knotty Cat for inviting!)

1) I love the cats! Despite they are self-seekers, I adore them and I feel jealous of their cunning.

2) I am an earring addict. I wear them even at home.

3) Being crazy about earrings and since I couldn’t find the perfect pair in the market, I decided nine years ago to get involved in crafting. The last five years I have my own silversmith workshop at home which is always untidy.

4) As a child I used to read comics. My favourite was the Adventures of Captain Swing.

5) As an adult, in my free (?) time, I like reading fiction and especially stories about the lost grandeur of the American South (Steinbeck, Faulkner and Fitzgerald).

6) I strongly believe that in a past life I was an owl. I am a late sleeper and I hate getting up early in the morning.

7) I am a vegetarian. I refuse to eat anything that used to be alive.

8) I prefer wearing dresses and skirts while very rarely I wear jeans.

9) Traffic jams, aggressive driving and looking for a parking space for hours get on my nerves!

10) I drink coffee very rarely. Contrary, I drink herbal tea daily.

1) Λατρεύω τις γάτες. Όσο προδότρες, Βρούτοι, συμφεροντολόγες και αν είναι εξακολουθώ να τις αγαπώ. Και ζηλεύω την καπατσοσύνη τους. Για όλες τις …γατοχτυπημένες, προτείνω τα βιβλία: Αγαπες με ουρά της Βούλας Μάστορη, Οι γάτες του χειμώνα του Περικλή Σφυρίδη και Ιστορίες με Ζώα του Εμμανουήλ Ροΐδη.

2) Επίσης λατρεύω τα σκουλαρίκια. Τα νιώθω σαν προέκταση του σώματός μου. Και στο σπίτι να είμαι, τα φοράω. Εννοείται πως επιλέγω ζευγάρι ανάλογα με τη διάθεσή μου.

3) Η μανία μου για τα σκουλαρίκια με οδήγησε πριν από εννιά περίπου χρόνια στο χειροποίητο κόσμημα. Αφού δεν έβρισκα στην αγορά αυτό που ακριβώς ήθελα, αποφάσισα να μάθω να τα φτιάχνω μόνη μου. Τα τελευταία πέντε χρόνια ασχολούμαι κυρίως με την αργυροχοΐα. Έχω στήσει ένα μικρό εργαστήριο στο σπίτι μου το οποίο είναι μονίμως άνω κάτω.

4) Μικρή διάβαζα μετά μανίας κόμικς και κυρίως τις Περιπέτειες του λοχαγού Μαρκ. Ίσως να ήμουν και ερωτευμένη με το μελαχρινό λοχαγό..

5) Στον ελεύθερο (;) μου χρόνο διαβάζω πεζογραφία. Με γοητεύουν οι ιστορίες που αναφέρονται στο χαμένο μεγαλείο του αμερικάνικου Νότου, όπως αυτές των Steinbeck, Faulkner και Fitzgerald.

6) Πιστεύω ότι στην προηγούμενη μου ζωή υπήρξα κουκουβάγια. Λειτουργώ πολύ καλύτερα τις νυχτερινές ώρες. Αντίθετα, το πρωινό ξύπνημα με σκοτώνει.

7) Εδώ και μερικά χρόνια είμαι χορτοφάγος.

8) Προτιμώ τα φορέματα και τις φούστες παρά τα παντελόνια. Jeans φοράω πολύ σπάνια.

9) Με εκνευρίζει η κίνηση, η επιθετική οδήγηση και το μόνιμο πρόβλημα του parking. (Γιατί πάντοτε όλοι προλαβαίνουν και παίρνουν τις θέσεις πριν από μένα;)

10) Πολύ σπάνια πίνω καφέ. Αντίθετα, πίνω τσάι καθημερινά. Τα αγαπημένα μου; Αλουίζα και βασιλικός

Summer Holidays: Visiting Kefallonia

2009-07-31T20:22:00.024+03:00

Ca y est: summer holidays! After a difficult and pressing winter (for everybody) at last, summer holidays are here and I feel so excited. This year, I decided to visit the islands of Kefallonia and Ithaca. The indispensable things for my holidays’ suitcase: My new, oversized Tom Ford sunglasses, colorful summer dresses, a straw hat, my boyfriend, a cheerful mood and I am ready!

Καλοκαιρινές διακοπές! Μετά από ένα δύσκολο και πιεστικό χειμώνα (για όλους μας), επιτέλους οι καλοκαιρινές διακοπές είναι εδώ και νιώθω τόσο ενθουσιασμένη γι’ αυτό. Φέτος επέλεξα νησιά του Ιονίου, Κεφαλλονιά και Ιθάκη. Όσο για τα απαραίτητα των αποσκευών; Τα καινούρια μου, oversized Tom Ford (για τα οποία ξόδεψα μια περιουσία), αέρινα καλοκαιρινά φορέματα, το ψάθινο καπέλο μου -που φέρνει πολύ έντονα στο νου τα εφηβικά αναγνώσματα της Μαργαρίτα Λυμπεράκη- την πιο ανεβασμένη διάθεση, τον καλό μου και φύγαμε για τα νησιά!!

Kefalonia and Ithaca proved to be ideal destinations since both islands have wonderful beaches. Especially, Myrtos in Kefallonia is a beach of exceptional beauty. Tips:

Rent a car! (But drive veryyyy carefully. The roads are veryyyy narrow). You save many hours waiting for the bus.
Avoid staying in towns or in luxury hotels. Why don’t you try accommodation in smaller villages and agrotourism? A perfect way to feel the vibration of the real Kefallonia.
Don’t omit to visit Fiskardo and Assos in North Kefallonia. From my point of view, the best places in the whole island that maintain the traditional architecture. What is more, in Assos we tasted the most delicious fresh fish in a tavern next to the sea.
You can also visit the natural wonders of Melissani lake and Drogarati cave with hundreds of stalactites and stalagmites.
Ithaca is very close to Kefallonia, half an hour by ship. (If you wish take your car to Ithaca by ship, buy the tickets the day before)

Η Κεφαλλονιά και η Ιθάκη αποδείχτηκαν ιδανικοί προορισμοί καθώς και τα δύο νησιά διαθέτουν καταπληκτικές παραλίες. Ειδικότερα, ο Μύρτος στην Κεφαλλονιά, ένα ζωντανό όνειρο. Έχοντας διαβάσει αρκετά για τη συγκεκριμένη παραλία πίστευα πως ήταν υπερβολές. Η επίσκεψή μου, όμως εκεί με έπεισε ότι δεν βραβεύτηκε τυχαία η καλύτερη παραλία στον κόσμο. Αν επισκεφτείτε μελλοντικά την Κεφαλλονιά:

Νοικιάστε αυτοκίνητο οπωσδήποτε. Κανένας δεν θέλει να περιμένει με βρεγμένα μαλλιά και γεμάτος άμμους το λεωφορείο που δε λέει να κάνει την εμφάνιση του. Όμως οδηγείτε προσεκτικά. Οι δρόμοι είναι πολύυυ στενοί και όσο για τη σήμανση, ας το αφήσουμε.
Αποφύγετε τις πόλεις (Αργοστόλι, Ληξούρι) και τα πολυτελή ξενοδοχεία. Γιατί δεν δοκιμάζετε τη διαμονή σε μικρότερα χωριά και τον αγροτουρισμό; Είναι άλλωστε ο καλύτερος τρόπος να αισθανθείτε τον πραγματικό παλμό ενός τόπου.
Μην παραλείψετε να επισκεφτείτε το Φισκάρδο και την Άσσο στη Βόρεια Κεφαλλονιά. Κατά τη γνώμη μου, τα πιο ωραία μέρη στο νησί που κράτησαν την παραδοσιακή αρχιτεκτονική. Επιπλέον, στην Άσσο δοκιμάσαμε το πιο γευστικό χταποδάκι στη σχάρα σε ταβέρνα δίπλα στη θάλασσα.
Επισκεφτείτε επίσης τη λίμνη Μελισσάνης και το Σπήλαιο Δρογκαράτης. Μικρά μεν, εντυπωσιακά δε.
Η Ιθάκη είναι πολύ κοντά, μισή ώρα με το καράβι (αν ωστόσο σκοπεύετε να επιβιβάσετε και το αυτοκίνητο σας, βγάλτε εισιτήρια από την προηγούμενη).

Σύνδεσμοι/Links

http://www.kefalonia.info

http://www.agrotravel.gr

Summer Lover: A picture is worth a thousand words

2009-07-29T21:05:00.004+03:00

The absolute summer image: an elegant woman under the hot sun of a Greek island. Or as pictured on these two covers of Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar during the 1940s…

.

Η απόλυτη καλοκαιρινή εικόνα: μια κομψή γυναίκα κάτω από τον καυτό ήλιο ενός ελληνικού νησιού. Ή όπως απεικονίζεται στα δυο αυτά εξώφυλλα της Vogue και του Harper’s Bazaar της δεκαετίας του 1940…