The Cupcake Diary

Io Sono L'Amore

2010-07-18T09:20:00.000+02:00

I inteded to write about Io sono l'amore (I Am Love) for a while now but - of course - the post about it layed down in a temporary folder in my pc since now. Anyway, I just heard the movie was recently released in the Us too and I think it's a perfect timing: while the city is hot-hot-hot, there's nothing better than a movie which, beyond all the passions and scandals involved, is indeed cold as ice...

"I Am Love tells the story of the wealthy Recchi family, whose lives are undergoing sweeping changes. Eduardo Sr., the family patriarch, has decided to name a successor to the reigns of his massive industrial company, surprising everyone by splitting power between his son Tancredi, and grandson Edo. But Edo dreams of opening a restaurant with his friend Antonio, a handsome and talented chef. At the heart of the family is Tancredi's wife Emma (Tilda Swinton), a Russian immigrant who has adopted the culture of Milan. An adoring and attentive mother, her existence is shocked to the core when she falls quickly and deeply in love with Edo's friend and partner Antonio, and embarks on a passionate love affair that will change her family forever."

Directed by Luca Guadagnino, the movie features a marvellous Tilda Swinton whom ladylike outfits - all custom designed by Raf Simons of Jil Sander - will surely fascinate you...

Don't miss it!

Photos courtesy of Magnolia Pictures.

All That Jazz...

2010-07-16T11:50:00.002+02:00

For those of you in New York, it's time to travel back in the roaring 20s again and enjoy a beautiful day in Governors Island: The biannual Jazz Age Lawn Party is back for its 5th edition!

What is better than spending a summer day picnicking, going to a Charleston lesson and watching the parade of hats and the promenade of bathing beauties and beaus?

Of course one of the dresses below, all from the Met exhibition American Woman: Fashioning a National Identity (thanks Amy for mentioning it!), would be the perfect thing to wear...

Pictures courtesy of Met Museum.

Strange And Beautiful

2010-07-15T09:14:00.002+02:00

I change, but my addiction to nailpolish is still here. I really can't live without a layer of smooth color on my feet (and amost never on my hands!) expecially in summer.

I am all for solid saturated shades, brights or muted, and I could wear almost every color, just for a night out - some too bright shades really don't work with my pale skin - or for weeks.

When I saw the exclusive line of nail polishes designed by Jane Schaub sometimes ago on the internet I immediately loved it.

It's called StrangeBeautiful and indeed it is. The most exciting thing is the colors come in three different sets - volumes - of eight pieces and each nail polish is inspired by...pretty strange details that make me smile: the red Valentine typewriter, the slate blue color of a uniform in an 1846 N.Currier print, Violette ink from the venerable French ink company J. Herbin, the dreadfully wonderful dirty almond color used on kitchen appliances and so on...

The painful note: each set costs 56£ (available here) Definitely not so great for my actual budget.

What's your favorite volume? I'd probably choose the first one, but I'd be a very happy girl with all the tree of them!

It's personal

2010-07-10T17:10:00.000+02:00

I usually don't write about my private life, at least not often, but during my blogging hiatus I did some things I still consider a bit unusual for me and I'm still going through all of this. My birthday will be in two months, and this year it will mark a turning point. I don't know exactly what is happening but lately I feel so different from the old faithful me. As soon as I started realizing it I thought it was a sort early - hey, I'm just turning 30! - middle age crisis and I was a bit worried about it, but now...well I'm starting to enjoy this new me.

I'm still the girl people can count on, but I wanna have fun and for the first time in my life I don't feel too guilty for this.

Weird to say, but all this started when I decided to buy...a bike!

Just because this is usually considered a sort of fashion blog (and after almost three years I'm still quite skeptical) and I don't feel confortable with posts without photos, bust most of all because I guess you don't want to hear my silly ramblings without a visual reward, here are some inspirational pics of stylish ladies on a bike. All from The Sartorialist, of course.

I don't know what will happen this summer, but I'm so looking forward to discover it...

Fools Rush In

2010-07-08T22:22:00.000+02:00

Just in case you've forgotten how amazing her voice is...

Back To Blogging And Mad Men Related Things...

2010-07-06T18:27:00.001+02:00

I know, I know, I am a terrible blogger, but fear not, everything is ok here and I hope to be able to post more often from now on.

So, July is usually a great month for various reasons and one of them is certainly that the new season of Mad Men is approaching, at least for those in the US. Are you excited? I can't wait!

In less than 3 weeks we'll all know what will happen to our beloved characters. For now there are not much news apart from the unveiling of the new poster below

and this video about season 4 wardrobe (yay!)

Oh, and if you liked the Mad Men Yourself thing, you should definitely check the new and improved version, with an updated selection of clothing, accessories and backgrounds...

Here's my new avatars. Man, I love all the versions of that dress!!! ;-)

I actually don't smoke, but, hey, this is a Mad Men world!

Magnificent Obsession

2010-06-18T21:06:00.001+02:00

This marvellous editorial by Peter Lindbergh is from the July issue of Vogue US. Featuring Natalia Vodianova and Ewan McGregor as a 50s/60s (not so) perfect couple - you know, one of those marriage that looks so good from the outside and is actually all about dissadisfaction, resentment and cocktails, something very "Mad Men meets Douglas Sirk"...!

Styled by Grace Coddington the whole editorial is a first look at the fall/winter collections "in action". De la Renta, Prada, Dries Van Noten go '50s!

Pictures from Fashion Gone Rogue

Somewhere

2010-06-15T16:17:00.001+02:00

The trailer for the new, upcoming Sophia Coppola movie is here.

I can't wait for the movie and meanwhile I wouldn't say no to a trip destination L.A., staying at Chateau Marmont... Oh, dreams!

Button + Boo

2010-06-13T11:45:00.001+02:00

The always so stylish Christina recently presented the Spring Summer collection of her line, Button + Boo and there are so many pieces I love!

The collection "was inspired by the modern girl who loves vintage, but has a hard time pulling off the vintage silhouette" so it's perfect for those girls who love vintage clothes but usually feel uncomfortable wearing them." Vintage fabrics and modern silhouette are definitely a pretty compromise!

Take a look at Christina's store!

Class Of 1999

2010-05-30T17:08:00.001+02:00

I'm totally not one of those people who miss highschool years or is too nostalgic about them. Don't get me wrong, it was not a bad time, but in a certain way I was so relieved when school ended! I had to get up every morning at six o'clock and I guess this was the worst point for me...

One of the things I've always missed though, are yearbooks. Cheesy, trashy, say what you want about them, but is so frustrating when you realize you don't own more than 3/4 pics of you and your classmates together(this could be a great thing, looking at your hairstyle/outfits, but again...).

Even if I doubt a real yearbook could look so good, here's one of my favorite editorial ever (it's weird I didn't post it before!!), by Paolo Roversi, it was originally published in a 2006 issue of Vogue Uk...

Rain Rain Go Away!

2010-05-19T10:17:00.010+02:00

We're having a really weird Spring this year. May is usually my favorite month, but this time it rains a lot and while I'm here, sadly listening to the thunders and waiting for another storm, I think the only thing that could cheer me up and make me appreciate the weather would be something like this

or this

or this!

And if - fingers crossed - we'll ever have some hot sunny day this Summer a parasol like one of these below would be perfect as well!

All from Brollies Galore: take a look, they carry an impressive selection!!!

Doppio Sogno

2010-05-15T11:15:00.002+02:00

Considering David Lynch is one of my favorite directors, I was anxiously waiting for the third chapter of the Lady Dior saga, Lady Blue. Considering in my opinion Lynch is passing through his personal midlife - new age filled - crisis, I was a bit afraid of the results.

But I actually know no one like him is able to represent subtle and universal fears in a mesmerizing way*, even in commercials and not merely artistic products, so...

It's been 20 years since Twin Peaks and almost 10 since Mulholland Drive and now Lynch hits Shanghai, one of the darkest and most fascinating cities in the world and after Naomi Watts, Laura Dern and all the others great Lynch's ladies, it's time for Marion Cotillard to be "in trouble".

In Mulholland Drive there was that mysterious blue box, in Lady Blue there's a mysterious Lady Dior handbag someone left in Marion's hotel room...

Devote 12 of your minutes to the short movie below and you will be rewarded.

* I also strongly believe Lynch has the best hairstyle in Hollywood, but well, that's another story ;-)

Chloe/Sioux/ East Village/ Milano

2010-05-14T09:04:00.000+02:00

Though I think Lonely Planet are the best, coolest and fun travel guides, I'm crazy for indie ones, hot spots lists, and all this sort of things. I even have a file folder on my pc called "their map of the world" where I keep all the best ones I find online.

And now I have something new to add: a video guide of New York - East Village with Chloe Sevigny

BUST Magazine

and the really useful tips of the lovely Sioux about Milano. Read them here in Italian and here for the English translation and keep in mind these will be a regular feature on her blog, so check back. I'm already craving for more!!

Flashback Friday With The Clothes Horse

2010-05-10T16:40:00.000+02:00

Lovely Rebecca, aka The Clothes Horse is posting a series of pretty amazing features on her blog: each Friday she takes us back in time, showing pictures of fellow bloggers, now and when they were little .

Here's The Clothes Horse herself, doesn't she was a real doll?

If you'd like to participate in a "flashback friday" as well, shoot Rebecca an e-mail at thenewclotheshorse@yahoo.com with a picture from childhood and a current photo. You can also help keep "Flashback Friday" alive by mentioning it on your blog/twitter/tumblr.

Important Artifacts And Personal Property From The Collection Of Evelina Levi Broglio

2010-05-06T13:15:00.001+02:00

I've never been to a real auction but expecially after reading (and loving, oh how much I loved that little thing!) this book I'm pretty obsessed. And when I heard the whole wardrobe of one of the most interesting and beautiful italian jet set lady will be auctioned by Il Ponte I almost screamed.

Bright blue eyes, fierce and effortlessy chic, Evelina Levi Broglio passed away a couple years ago after a novel-like life spent traveling around the world. Her friends included all the most important designers - Christiam Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Gianni Versace, Gianfranco Ferrè, Raffaella Curiel, who created one of a kind dreams just for her.

More than simple clothes and accessories, every single piece from her collection has for sure a story to tell.

So, if you're in Milano these days, you can't miss the event: all the wonderful pieces from Evelina Levi Broglio's wardrobe will be showcased from 7th to 9th May in Palazzo Crivelli, Via Pontaccio 12. Then, from 11th to 13th May the amazing lots (there are over 1000!) will be all sold by auction in the same location.

Not in Milan, but in the mood for dreaming? Fear not, you can have a look at the catalogue here.

Down With Love

2010-05-04T20:21:00.002+02:00

It's official: with the summer approching, I'm desperately waiting for the new season of Mad Men. I can't wait a minute more! I must know what will happen, without saying this season will probably mark a turning point in fashion too, as we're going to the Mod years and the perfection of American Dream is rapidly fading away...

So, yesterday I spent the afternoon rewatching some retro movies I had not watched for a while. And one of them was Down With Love, definitely not a perfect film, but a fun comedy (and costumes and sets are pretty fun as well!), a mix of tribute/parody of the '60s movies with Rock Hudson and Doris Day, like Pillow Talk.

The story begins when Barbara Novack (Renée Zellweger) come to New York City (the 1962 New York City...) to present her book, Down With Love, in which she declares women too are free to live, focus on career and play with sex as a man would do.
As the book become a sensation, ruining men's lives, Catcher Block (Ewan McGregor), a charming magazine writer and notorious ladies' man is determined to destroy Novack reputation of role model, proving she can fall in love as any other woman, so it goes undercover and act like a perfect gentleman in order to seduce her...

If you haven't watched it yet, after seeing the screenshots below (click to enlarge them!) I bet you'll want to!

Screenshots from here.

Tucker By Gabi Basora

2010-05-01T12:42:00.000+02:00

A big thank you to Lulu who a couple weeks ago introduce me to Tucker, a wonderful line by Gabi Basora.

Each collection feature a series of styles, chic and neat - blouse and dresses, for the most part, but there are also great pants - and I must say it's almost impossible not lo love each of them. But the best part is each style come in a lot of different printed fabric and the pattern are beyond amazing.

What a smart idea! I guess this line will become a new favorite in a moment.

A Couple Movies In My Watching List

2010-04-28T08:26:00.002+02:00

Due to lack of good cinemas, Netflix and similar things, unreleased movies and me being stuck in a small town, the number of films in my watching list is absurdly increasing.

Here are just some of them...

Breaking Upwards follows a young New York couple who, after four years together, have grown stifled. Desperate to escape their ennui, but fearful of life apart, they decide to intricately strategize their own break up.

The Exploding Girl is the exquisite portrait of a young girl coming of age and finding a deeper kind of love in New York City.

Paris Je T'aime has been on my list since so long...Do you believe it's still unreleased in Italy?!

And of course New York, I Love you is on my list as well...

Which movies are in your watching list now?

Nadinoo At Work

2010-04-26T07:50:00.000+02:00

This Is Naive is a blog I'm following from a while now. Tommy is a talented photographer and I like how shes' always able to focus on those little details, so small yet so nice and interesting. Also, I have a real thing for her Lo-Fi travel guides!

One of the latest Tommy's features is about "people at work", a series of regular posts where she visually describe the art and everyday life of talented people.

So, when I heard she was about to feature the work of Nadia Izruna, the girl behind Nadinoo I couldn't be happier and the post didn't disappoint me indeed!

Some of the amazing pieces from Nadinoo's Spring/Summer collection

Work!

And there's even a little preview of what will come next season. I really hope she will actually make that cape!!

And what about the perfection of every single piece here?!

Nadia recently moved to London and her canal-side apartment looks like a really nice place...

For more pictures take a look here.

Lily And The Muse

2010-04-24T21:09:00.000+02:00

I recently discovered Lily and the Muse, an adorable video sharing site and today I spent way to much time watching nice video (it's raining again...).

This is definitely my favorite so far, it's amazing!

Colorful Life

2010-04-20T16:35:00.000+02:00

I love the styling and the little accessories in these pictures. It's spring, it's time to wear nice things!

Via Fashion Gone Rogue

La Gatta Con Gli Stivali

2010-04-18T10:45:00.001+02:00

Yuna and Suny are two Italian friends who share a true passion for quality shoes with an eclectic and a bit retro appeal. This passion brought them to the creation of La Gatta con gli Stivali, a wonderful website jam-packed with the best selection of shoe brands I've ever seen on an Italian online shop so far.

Visiting La Gatta con gli Stivali, is like entering a fairytale (and not just for the name, which is a jeu de mots on the italian title of Charles Perrault's Puss in Boots), where the princesses wear Chie Mihara and Minna Parikka's delightful creations.

And even if you don't have to be a princess to wear such marvellous shoes, the customer care of La Gatta con gli Stivali is so wonderful you will be treated like you're actually living in a fairytale!

First of all the shopping experience here is always something exclusive. Not only the brands Yuna and Suny choose to carry are extremely selected, but they always have just a small amount of pieces in stock for each style, so you'll never feel you'll buying something every other girl around you will soon wear.

Another thing to keep in mind is people at La Gatta con gli Stivali are friendly and helpful and will be glad to offer a personalized service with a shopping consultant and to answear to all of your questions and fashion doubts.

Last but not least at all, if you're not 100% satisfied with your purchase, you can return it for free and have a replacement or your money back.

So, you have no excuses now: go check the store and fell in love! The new collection is arriving in these days and many more fab pieces will be listed soon, so be back often too!

Not in Italy? Don't worry, La Gatta con gli Stivali ships worlwide and accepts payment via Paypal and all the major credit cards.

And don't forget to become a fan on Facebook too!

Pixies

2010-04-16T09:59:00.000+02:00

Probably the most popular this year, pixie haircut is something I love but I know would never work on me. I actually have a proof: I had my hair cut that way when I was 17 and even if people tell me it was not that bad at all, I still have nightmares about it!

By the way, if you're braver than me, look for a good hairdresser et...voilà!

You can take inspiration from two great lady icons from the past, Jean Seberg...

...and Mia Farrow in Rosemary's Baby.

Or from two contemporary lady icons: Mia Wasikowska, who looks great with her new haircut...

...and Carey Mulligan, who tried the pixie cut in almost every color shade!

It's All In The Details

2010-04-14T16:44:00.000+02:00

I'm noticing that my favorite street style shots of lately are all about (expensive) details and easy chic attitude, more than whole outfits.

How perfect is this family portrait?!

All pictures: Jak & Jil

Lea Stein

2010-04-11T16:58:00.000+02:00

My new obsession are Lea Stein's brooches.

Art deco animal jewelry? Of course!! Each piece is slighly different fron the others and each design comes in different colors and patterns: perfection, despite the fact I would buy everything!

These above are just few of my favorites...if you wanna really hurt yourself take a look at the extensive collection showcased here!

Vintage Sartorialist

2010-04-07T17:41:00.000+02:00

One of the thing I recently enjoyed the most was the first photo contest Scott The Sartorialist Schuman ran last month.

The Vintage Photo Contest was - obviously - about vintage photos, and if you're following me you may know how much I like to indulge in old pictures from my family, but also from unknown people. And photos that come with a story are the best, like when you purchase a vintage dress and people tell you about its original owner...

So a lot of people were involved in the Sartorialist contest and sent him the most beautiful images they own, from 20s to early 80s, of their stylish family members. And each entry came with a brief introduction.

If you missed the whole thing, I suggest you to check the blog. Now!

April Wish List

2010-04-05T10:01:00.000+02:00

I'm a bad blogger and I'm late with everything...please forgive me!!

Hope you had a nice Easter and the weather is better than here, where it's raining since yesterday. By the way it's already April and this is pretty good for my mood, despite the rain and the cold wind!

My old phone left me last week after six years of honored service and I had to buy a new one - no, it's not an Iphone - so at this moment I'm a bit on a budget (well, more than usual!) and I can only dream of new spring things like these...

Heart Cut Out Shell Top

Stripes Large Bow Cloche

Irregular Choice Floral Print + Bow Shoes

Zen Garden Two Piece

or Beach Blanket Bingo Two Piece. It seems I developed a thing for polka dots lately!

Last but not least, how nice are the new Chanel nail polishes from their summer collection, Les Pop-Up? Sherbet tones...love!

First Day Of Spring

2010-03-21T21:30:00.000+01:00

Spring makes me do crazy things.

I've just ordered my first Vivien of Holloway dress.

It's amazing!

Next time, the one below :-)

Clothes With A Soul

2010-03-19T17:02:00.000+01:00

During the "Roman holiday" I realized I'm in the mood for 70s fashion lately, and yes, this sounds a bit weird and unexpected to me, but all in all is a positive feeling.

I even bought a pair of highwaisted flared jeans - me?? jeans?? - which I totally felt in love at first sight and we'll be surely shown here as soon as I re-hem them.

I admit I purchased lil things at Zara and H&M - how couldn't avoid it, indeed?! - but the best part of the shopping experience was as usual the discovery of little indie stores, little gems which I can't wait to visit again as soon as I'll be back to Roma.

The award of best, new, cult store goes probably to Kokoro shop, an adorable place where you find unique pieces directly and meticulously created. I must thank you M. for introducing me to this store that, as you can read on the website, actually looks like a warm and inviting living room where friends have fun trying on clothes.

They recently started selling a selection of their pieces online (shipping to Italy only for now, but international order should be accepted soon too), but if you're in Roma I really recommend you to pay a visit. You can't be disappointed and almost surely you'll can't leave empty-handed!

KOKORO SHOP
Via del Boschetto 75
00100 Roma

Barbie Goes Mad (Men)

2010-03-18T09:41:00.000+01:00

Ok, I'm not a dolls collector or a fan of collector dolls and tv show merchandising, but Barbie Collector Mad Men Dolls seems to be the ultimate object of desire!

Not necessarily the men, which look kind of weird as usual - and by the way a real Jon Hamm would be unbeatable... - but Betty and Joan dolls are fabulous!!

They're molded of Silkstone®, a material that looks and weight like porcelaine and they come with gorgeous accessories (even though there's no trace of cigarettes and martini glasses...what a mistake!) and details: there's even Joan's infamous pen necklace!!

But what I like more about these dolls is they not only are pretty good and faithful to their show counterparts, but they remind me a lot of the real '60s Barbie dolls - face, legs and body shape - so different from the modern ones!

Barbie Collector Mad Men Dolls will be available to purchase from July 2010, when Mad Men season 4 will premiere, for a suggested retail price of $74.95.

Not For Tourists Roma

2010-03-16T18:07:00.002+01:00

So I'm back from this marvellous, relaxing (very long) weekend in Roma that involved sunbathing in Villa Borghese, to die for wine tasting, good and not so good movies - dear Atom (Egoyan), what's happening to you?! - sushi eating on a lovely roof terrace and lot of shopping. I already miss all of that!

I'll write more about purchases and nice stores in another post, here I want to show some crazy and fun pictures I took in the city. Definitely a not for tourists view...

Enjoy!

Do not place anything on top of this box...

The boxes are empty. All the bulbs are broken.

Warning. Questionable but realistic gift packages that exalt the contents.

Roman Holiday

2010-03-11T09:00:00.000+01:00

Hoping in a Spring like weather - this week it snowed in Italy, again... - I'm going to Roma for a few days.

See you next week. Have a great weekend :-)

Take A Walk On The Glam Rock Side

2010-03-10T10:00:00.002+01:00

Oh, glam rock... I immediately think of David Bowie and the 70s glitters, Ziggy Stardust and the new rock universe. That Velvet Goldmine is definitely still loved and glam rock is always a big inspiration for a lot of designers. First of all for the enfant terrible of the French couture...

For the launch of his new fragrance, Ultra Ma Dame - a fresh and cool eau de parfum that fabulously smells of black rose, cedar wood and musk - Jean Paul Gaultier invite you to show your wild side, or at least your glam rock side!

Post you best glam rock picture in the gallery or vote for your favorite ones, here. You'll be rewarded: the ten most voted/most "glam rock" people will receive a set of the whole Jean Paul Gaultier Ma Dame product line and one lucky winner will get an invitation for two to Jean Paul Gaultier runway show and Jean Paul Gaultier brand accessories as a finishing touch to her/his Glam'Rock style!

The contest will end on 15th July, but don't wait anymore, take a fun walk on the Glam Rock side and show your style! Hurry, hurry and good luck!
See you on the front row!

Built By Wendy

2010-03-09T20:20:00.001+01:00

I was risking to miss the release of the new Built by Wendy collection, but luckily Jennifer posted about it last week!

I like a lot of things this time! Little dresses, blouses, skirts all all the pants!

Revenge Of The Ex Wives

2010-03-08T09:50:00.001+01:00

Oscar night with unpredictable (really?) twist.

Talking about dresses - it's too early in the morning to talk about awards! - I adored Vera Farmiga in that spectacular Marchesa gown.

She looked like a peony and I'm telling this in the most positive way. Peony is my my favorite flower, by the way :-)

What about your favorites? Oscar dresses and flowers, I mean!

Nadinoo Spring!

2010-03-05T21:32:00.000+01:00

I always thought Spring is, more than a just a season, a real state of mind. And when I'm in a "Spring mood" I need to wear the right clothes, clothes that perfectly match my attitude.

I think these new pieces from Nadinoo are what I need. You can buy them online, here.

Can't wait for more!

Cactus Flower

2010-03-04T14:00:00.000+01:00

I'm not so fashion forwarded, so I don't really like to write about fashion weeks and collections we'll wear (ok, I pretend I'll wear...) not so soon. But there are collections I see and love at first sight and I cannot wait for a long season to talk about them.
That said, after Prada, I'm pretty sure a lot of us will be fond on the Rochas FW 2010/11 one as well.

The inspiration for the whole collection came from Cactus Flower, a 1969 movie with Goldie Hawn (she won the Oscar for the performance) and Ingrid Bergman. What a curious couple, don't you think?!

The character of Miss Hawn looks adorable, so fresh and funny

and the collection totally reflects the mood of late '60/early '70s in shapes and prints and colors, adding a lot of feminine details.

Modern vintage, here we come!

Photos: Style.com

Lula

2010-03-01T15:31:00.001+01:00

Lula celebrates its 5th anniversary with a new issue available with different covers.

Which is your favorite?

If you're wondering how and where to buy your copy - I know sometimes it can be a bit tricky - I recommend checking here if you're in US, here for UK and Europe (but they do ship worldwide) and here for Italy.

Just My Cup Of Tea

2010-02-27T14:20:00.000+01:00

Ok, I need no words to describe Prada FW 2010/11 collection. I'm probably not objective, but with all those 50s touches Prada's ladies are just what I dream of.

The colors, the elegance of knitwear - the fab light blue sweaters, the headbands and the perfect cable knit socks - the impeccable embroidered dresses and embellished pointy stilettos, the bow belts and the Oh-My-God sunglasses. Nothing too bold, a quiet collection definitely ladylike. So retro, yet so modern.

...So Betty Draper!!

Well, it's simply my cup of tea...

Photos: Style.com

In Flower

2010-02-26T00:09:00.001+01:00

Last November I posted the beautiful picture below and I wrote I didn't remember where it was from.

One of my lovely readers, Julie, left me a comment, telling me it was first published in an old issue of Vogue Us, 2006/2007 circa.

Julie was so adorable to send me the scans of the whole editorial too. And I'm sorry it took me so long to publish them!

Flowers Bomb: A Colour Splash From The Italian Fashion Bloggers. Get Ready, Spring Is On Its Way!

2010-02-24T11:03:00.003+01:00

It's raining. Again. This is what's happening almost daily since December. It snowed too and considering I live by the sea it snowed too much!

I can't stand winter any longer. I want spring to come soon, I want sun, warm weather and...flowers! My beloved flowers...I could wear florant prints everyday I guess!

So today, 24th February, the Italian Fashion Bloggers are declaring war to bad weather. We are a floral army who fight against the Winter of our discontent!

All the girls (and there are a couple boys too) in the list below will post a picture of a floral outfit today, so go take a look at all the blogs linked!

Italian Fashion Bloggers are real. And united we stand!

L'Armadio del Delitto
Irene's Closet
My Floor Is Red
Iole in Fashion
Sioux
Starbucks and Chanel 2.55
Mode-moi-selle
The Cupcake Diary
Viola Comes in Colours
Tuzi Fashion Tips
Student Flair
Fashion Trotter
Carmen's Closet
7 Heures du Math
Mix and Match
Bibi In Wonderland
Living In My Shoes
Je...Veronique
Ciarlott
Anna Zigliotto
Guady
Frammenti
Lady Marian
The Skeleton Party
Labels or Love
My Family and Other Animals
Reports of a Velvet Rose
The Stijl
Il Mio Paese Delle Meraviglie
Mon Petit Reve
Pensieri In Stand By
L'Ago nel Pagliaio
I Wanna Look Like Sienna
Pig Chic
Coop Style
Teaspoon of Me
Lovin Chiaradeanna
The Maiden Brunette
Miss Velvet Bow
The Chic Blonde
Lidlstyle
Blue Is In Fashion This Year
Nayra Laise
The Minette Issue
Fashion For Breakfast
Miss GrapChic
Factory Style
Rosé a Pois
A Bit Of Fashion
Voguette
Cleopatra Was Blonde Inside
Me, Myself and I
The Blondie's Tales
Simple Glamour Girl
Sovraimpressioni
Be Beautiful, Be You
Vyrtuosa
Pillole di Moda
Everyday Is a Fashion Show
Barbielaura
Colazione a Roma
The Chic Blonde
Elisa Zampieri
Se Solo Avessi Saputo...
Ego&Filo
Just My Style
Dress Up For Armageddon
La Martina
This Is Me Then
Style Notes
The Scent of Obsession
The Man Inside Of Me
The Sardorialist
Kirei Girl Da Madrid
Fashion Doll's House
Nel Mio Angolino
De L'Autre Cote Du Miroir
Mode In Italy
Shopaholiche
A Dream Of A Lifetime
Ciambelle a Gò Gò
High-Lights
Cocktail Party
The Girl With The Red Nose
Princess pam's Diary
My Private Room

She Did It Again

2010-02-22T13:21:00.000+01:00

Every time I spot a picture of this lady on The Sartorialist I have to save it in my inspiration folder.

Last year...

...today

Shoes To Heart

2010-02-21T19:06:00.001+01:00

It took me awhile, but they're finally with me and I'm in love.
I don't mind if they're from last season. This is a long lasting affair...

They look and smell like Barbie's shoes and are oh so perfect with a serious little black dress!

Goodbye Yulanda

2010-02-19T19:56:00.000+01:00

Goodbye Yulanda. You will be missed.

Pick A Flower

2010-02-18T11:00:00.001+01:00

I love little dresses, you know. I heart flowers, you should know this too. I adore Erdem, you could imagine this...

I looked at pictures of Erdem Spring/Summer 2010 collection with a big smile on my face, those flower prints are marvellous - I thought. Only when I took a closer look at detail shots I realized the flowers are not printed but for the biggest part they're actually sewn and embroidered on fabric. It's magic!

May I have every single piece of this collection?

Pictures: Style.com

Non Plus One

2010-02-14T12:46:00.001+01:00

When you say Opening Ceremony, Jason Schwartzman and Kirsten Dunst all in the same sentence you're probably saying something cool.

I adore video lookbooks, short movies and all that sort of things so when I heard about Opening Ceremony Spring/Summer movie, directed by Gia Coppola and Tracy Antonopoulos, starring Schwartzman&Dunst with a song by Coconut Records as soundtrack...well I was pretty excited.

But when I heard the directors were inspired by the films of the French Nouvelle Vague I was definitely in awe!

non plus one final from Tracy ANTONOPOULOS on Vimeo.

Farewell, Mr McQueen

2010-02-11T19:23:00.003+01:00

He will be missed.

Ode To Anna Karina

2010-02-10T09:36:00.000+01:00

Celebrating its second anniversary, Every Little Counts is hosting a fab giveaway: if you're Anna Karina "addicted" like me you can't miss the opportunity to win a fab Anna Karina tee from ELC's new collection. You have until 13th February to enter; check out how here.

I fell in love as soon as I spotted this t-shirt on Softspoken. It must be mine in a way or another!!

Bold Platforms

2010-02-07T09:55:00.000+01:00

I want these!!

From Robert Clergerie S/S 2010 collection. Take a look: there are many more shoes to love.

Love Long Distance

2010-02-05T09:40:00.001+01:00

You know I adore Modcloth and my love is even deeper now that I saw their latest lookbook.

Simply stunning!

Oh, and how gorgeous is this little boater hat below? I can't decide if I would buy it in gold or ruby red though...!

Oh My Dior!

2010-01-27T10:34:00.001+01:00

Ok, so you may know I (im)patiently wait for Dior Couture show every season and this time too I'm not disappointed.

After the amazing pieces Galliano presented last Fall, here he is with another magnificent, opulent and impeccable collection.

Riding jackets and skirts, cocktail dresses and to-die-for ball gowns: oh my, I love everything! And what about the makeup, the accessories and the whole show? Perfection!!

In my opinion, this is exactly what Haute Couture has to be.

All pictures: Style.com
Click to enlarge, as usual!

Pyjama Party!

2010-01-23T22:44:00.000+01:00

I'm ready to attend the pyjama party of the lovely Dotti.

Wearing my vintage nightgown, I'll bring cupcakes and smiles.

How fun! Take a look here...

Innocence Taken

2010-01-20T20:01:00.000+01:00

This is yet another movie I'm looking forward to see. It sounds fascinating and the styling...well just let the pics talk!

With a story set in a 30s all-girl boarding school and a mysterious and glamourous teacher played by Eva Green, Cracks is wrote and directed by Jordan Scott, daughter of Ridley Scott and will be releasad later this year in US (but it's already out in UK and France I guess).

I don't know how much I'll have to wait to see it here in Italy, but at least An Education will be finally released on February 5th!

Girl Crush

2010-01-15T21:04:00.000+01:00

I have a girl crush on Lourdes Hernandez aka Russian Red.

She reminds me a lot of Zooey Deschanel, which is indeed a great thing!

And her songs are pretty cool too...

Forever 21 Spring Looks

2010-01-14T17:27:00.000+01:00

And what about these oh-so-nice images from Forever21 Spring lookbook?

I love all those mixed prints and the nautical stripes!

Craving For Spring

2010-01-11T17:00:00.009+01:00

I'm officially neglecting the blog these days and this is such a bad way to start the new year! I'm so sorry but winter definitely kills me...I'm pretty sure in a previous life, even before being a Midwest 50s housewife, I have been something like a groundhog or another animal who spend the whole long winter sleeping!

This is the worst part of the year for me and while almost everyone enjoy the sales, I'm already looking forward to what I'll want to wear in spring: tons of flowers and prints, colors and silky textures!

I know I'll have to wait for... a lot of time, meanwhile here are my favorite designer pieces from the Resort Collections...

Bottega Veneta

Marni

Sonia Rykiel

Moschino

Erdem

Prada

Paper Birds

2010-01-02T11:06:00.000+01:00

So, a new year is here. Even better, a new decade which I seriously hope will bring some happiness.

Hope you'll reach your goals and have a lot of fun during these twelve coming months!

I decided to start the year showing you a little nice video by David Falossi. Titled Paper Birds, it is about the inspiration that can be found in ordinary circumstances. Definitely a positive vision which I'm pretty happy to adopt!

The video is one of the awards contenders in “A Day through your Lens”, a competition promoted by Nikon where you have to capture the essence of your day in 140 seconds or less. You can vote for Paper Birds and give it a chance to win the Audience Award, just clicking on the five stars you'll find here.

Hope this whimsical lady and her yellow tights will show us the right path to follow this year :-)

Santa Claus Brought Me Tons Of Bras

2009-12-28T10:14:00.000+01:00

Being a flat chested girl could be really painful if you live in a country where bras don't go by cup and bust measurements but, most of the time, there are only a few standard sizes - and the smallest is often too big - that leave you with lot of extra empty space.

Considering I don't like to fill my bra with Kleenex, I finally decided to try a different path and once again a bit of online shopping has saved me. Just one week -the time of my latest order from ASOS to be delivered - and now my lingerie drawer is full of bras that finally fit me. Literally, an invasion of A cups!

I regularly look at new arrivals on Asos and I must say I also place regular orders, but I don't know why I've never considered the lingerie section (and the outlet lingerie section) till last week.
By the way, I finally did it and I immediately turned into a lingerie addicted. Seriously: I want to buy almost everything and looking for a single bra I ended buying...six. And knickers too! A sort of "auto Christmas present". Well deserved and much appreciated.

The pics show just a selection of some of my favorites + something I bought... :-)

Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas

2009-12-24T16:30:00.000+01:00

So sorry for the lack of updates during these snowy weeks...I'll be back very, very soon. Promised!

Hope you'll have a wonderful Christmas :-)

Picture: here.

Fashionable Puppets

2009-12-11T09:59:00.001+01:00

I saw these awhile ago on Style Bubble and immediately loved them. I'm certainly not a little girl anymore, but I can still love puppets. Stylish puppets.

All the fashion crews, from Paris, London, Milano and New York. You can buy them here.

I must add them to the gift guide!

Alice Pleasance's Gift Certificates And More From The Holiday Collections

2009-12-07T21:51:00.000+01:00

Alice Pleasance's Gift Certificates are here!

They're the perfect option when you need a gift for your special ones but you're not sure what they'd like. They are valid for everything in my store and they never expire!

I have listed certificates for $10, $25 and $50, but if you would like to request a specific amount just send me a convo and I'll make a custom listing for you.

Take a look at my store, I have listed more earrings from my Holiday Collection too :-)

The Cupcake Diary Gift Guide

2009-12-05T20:56:00.001+01:00

Don't Forget Ring

The Little Guide To Vintage Shopping

Famous Faces Masks

1940s and 1950s Retro Candy Gift Boxes here and here

Lolita Poster

Paris Black Everyday Tote

Fifi Lapin Brooch

Snow's Revenge Vinyl Laptop Decal

Vintage L.A.

2009-12-02T17:37:00.002+01:00

In a few words, I bought an amazing book and I'm totally sure this will be a perfect Christmas present for any vintage and travels addicted.

I always looked at travel guides as wishlists more than practical books. A way to escape from reality in a certain way: in a cold winter afternoon when you lay on your coach with flu and sore throat, you can always imagine to travel to your favorite spots feeling great with a warm sun kissing your skin!
So it doesn't matter if I'm a million green counties from sunny California and I'm not currently planning any trip to L.A. (any trip anywhere indeed...), I'm totally hooked on this book!

Vintage L.A. is an amazing guide to every amazing vintage spots - boutiques, decor, landmarks, markets & more - in this amazing city. A guided tour of a glittery town, home of oh so many marvellous stories.

Featuring gorgeous, gorgeous pictures and interviews to cool Angelenos (Mark Ryden too!!), this guide will take you from Westside to Hollywood, from the Valley to Beverly Hills to L.A. sadly lost vintage landmarks. It's a book full of colors and fascinating old school stories. Definitely my thing!

The author, the L.A. native and lifelong resident and former Elle Girl columnist Jennifer Brandt Taylor - a super cool and stylish redhaired girl, by the way - has relocated to New York City where she's working on her next book, Vintage New York. And I can't wait for this one too!!

You can browse inside the book here.

Alice Pleasance Holiday Collection

2009-11-29T17:03:00.001+01:00

In time for Cyber Monday, here's a new collection of statement earrings featuring 16K gold plated nickel free connectors and earwires and beautiful candy colored gemstone beads and briolettes.

Perfect for holiday season parties and Christmas presents!

They're available now in my store :-)

35 Questions

2009-11-28T09:14:00.003+01:00

I hope my American readers had a great Thanksgiving and are now having some good days of shopping...Black Friday, Cyber Monday...you know!

I just heard I'll unexpectedly have a free day from babysitting today. This means I could rest a little and indulge in all those nice&silly things I like so much. This also means less money for my Christmas presents (and presents to self...), but you can't have everything, right?!

During the last weeks I received an award and a tag from three marvellous ladies - Jessica, Tiz and Poke Salad Annie - so I definitely have to do it!

Ok, it seems I have to reply to these questions...

1.Where is your phone? Table
2.Your hair? Messy
3.Your Mother? Enthusiastic
4.Your Father? Missing
5.Your favourite food? Lemon tarts!
6.Your dream last night? Venice
7.Your favourite drink? Wine
8.Your dream/goal? To save up some money...
9.What room are you in? Living room
10.Your hobbie? Many. Shopping is just one of them ;-)
11.Your fear? Highness, precipices and all those things
12.Where do you want to be in 6 years? Not here
13.Where were you last night? Bed
14.Something that your not? Unfair
15.Muffins? With chocolate chips!
16.Wishlist item? Heavy coat
17.Where did you grow up? here
18.Last thing you did? Checked mail
19.What are you wearing? Nightgown + silk and cashmere cardi
20.Your TV? All about tv series
21.Your pets? Virtual
22.Friends? Far from me :-(
23.Your life? Frozen
24.Your mood? Imaginative
25.Missing someone? M.
26.Vehicle? My feet
27.Something your not wearing? Shoes
28.Your favourite store? Vintage stores!
29.Your Favourite colour? Red
30.When was the last time you laughed? Probably yesterday
31.The last time you cried? ...I can't remember!
32.Your best friend? Again: far from me :-(
33.One place that I go to over and over? Memory Lane
34.Facebook? Everyday (with a guilty face)
35.Favourite place to eat? A small restaurant by the sea

Done!

I'm not going to tag other blogs, but if you'd like to play consider yourself tagged and have a great weekend!

The Name Game

2009-11-24T08:35:00.002+01:00

It's funny how since I have this blog and my jewelry line - Alice Pleasance Accessories - many people tend to call me Alice, thinking it is my name. And I'm sure some of my readers still ignore that my real name is Anna!

Yesterday I received a little package from CollanaConNome.com

and when I opened the adorable box I found they sent me a perfect nameplate necklace, something that have actually been on my wish list for a very long time!

It's definitely an amazing piece, and would surely be a perfect Christmas present!

Do you like it? Order yours here :-)

Missed Connections

2009-11-22T09:51:00.004+01:00

I have a real addiction to missed connections. I could spend hours on Craigslist reading each message - skipping all the creepy/indecent proposals... - looking for the perfect ones. I always wonder if they will find an answer or will just die in the cyberworld...

Sophie Blackall went one step further with her blog where, with her beautiful illustrations, she tries to pin a few of those "funny, sad, beautiful, hopeful, hopeless, poetic posts" down.

Look at this adorable video too!

Sophie's illustrations are also available for sale in her Etsy store.

Alternative Ways

2009-11-19T09:49:00.001+01:00

Being not a real fashion weeks addicted, I adore all the extra efforts that makes a fashion show look more than a mere accumulation of expensive wonderful stuff. Alexander - My God - McQueen and a few others regularly make me scream with joy and excitement every season, but of course I regularly find some other shows to like.

And if you choose to showcase your new collection on a 12 foot tall zoetrope, you can be sure I'll love it!

This happened when Temperley, looking for an alternative way to exhibit their new circus inspired Spring/Summer 2010 collection, hooked up with Legs and they ended building a 12-foot-tall carousel structure that combine rudimentary film loops with modern projection technology to showcase ten circus acts while at the same time displaying 15 different Temperley looks.

Read more about it here and watch the videos below to see the zoetrope in action!

In The Mood

2009-11-17T08:43:00.000+01:00

Be aware that this will be a long photographic post, but it's definitely my favorite editorial this year and I love each and everyone of the pictures below. Originally published on Velvet last March, I'm finally able to post it here.

Probably nothing so new, but there is something in these "In The Mood For Love-esques" photos (even though this is Shanghai...) that is really appealing. And of course the whole styling and wardrobe choices are perfect!

About Beauty

2009-11-15T15:44:00.000+01:00

A while ago I stumbled upon the work of Riikka Sormunen.
No more words needed, I guess.

Mimic

2009-11-14T08:21:00.000+01:00

Fashion Chameleons.

The first picture is by Yvan Rodic, but I can't remember where I found the second one! Can you help me...?!

Noir Is The New Black

2009-11-12T09:17:00.000+01:00

The first was Dior, then - well, this one's actually on the weird side - Christian Louboutin and now Dolce&Gabbana. Film noir is definitely a big source of inspiration for designer commercials and fashion short movies this year!

The latest one, directed by Cyril Guyo for the launch of Jalou, the new fashionable phone designed by Dolce&Gabbana for Sony Ericsson, is a very glamorous corto where five splendid dark ladies have to deal with dangerous feelings...jealousy and desire.

I really like the video, but I admit my real object of desire is the "glove hat"...

In Doubt

2009-11-10T19:33:00.000+01:00

I can't decide if these are sort of "irrespectful" or fun...

You judge.

Grey Gardens coloring books, for sale here.

And here's an interview with the creator.

Cartoonia

2009-11-09T17:21:00.001+01:00

Another fun, Minnie inspired editorial from Elle Italy, October 2009. The stylist, Amelianna Loiacono (she's a real vintage lover, by the way), is the same of this editorial.

And once again, red hair rules!

More pictures here.

Wearable News

2009-11-08T12:35:00.002+01:00

T-post is certainly the smartest thing I stumbled upon recently.

Neither a paper thing, nor an online one, T-post is the new frontier of magazines cause it's...wearable and it combines offbeat news that represent in some way the world and time we live in, cool graphic designer works and t-shirts.

Printed in a limited edition, each issue is available only to subscribers that receive their "copy" via mail, a new one every six weeks.

The idea was born in 2004 as a fun project amongst a group of friends in Sweden. They started out by making the first t-shirt in just 5 copies. The word began to spread and today T-post is distributed to over 50 countries.

Still sounds a bit strange? Look at the video below to see how it works:

Each new issue of T-post is not just a fashion piece, but it's a conversation one and the whole thing is a real communication project.

Sign up here to subscribe. I bet it would be a perfect Christmas present for every graphic t-shirt addict too :-)

"With T-Post, it’s not just what your t-shirt says about you or the artist who designed it, but also what your t-shirt says about the world".

It's so true!

Nine Questions To Calendar Girl Vintage

2009-11-06T10:47:00.002+01:00

It's been a long time since my last Nine Questions feature, but here I am today with a new interview that I hope will be the first of a long new series.

Calendar Girl Vintage is a recent favorite Etsy store of mine. Specialized in the finest, hand-picked, high quality vintage from the 1940s, 50s and early 60s, is definitely my dream! Last week, checking the latest arrivals, I stumbled upon the most wonderful 50s cocktail dress ever - the one in the picture above - and...well it's currently on its way to me (it will actually be my Christmas present!).

Well, let's have a chat with Miss Calendar Girl Vintage herself now!

1. HI JEN, AND THANK YOU FOR BEING HERE WITH US! TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOU AND YOUR STORE. HOW DID YOU GET STARTED WITH CALENDAR GIRL VINTAGE?

First, thank you so much for featuring me on your blog. I'm a stay-at-home mom to my 14-month-old baby boy and my job lets me do what I love most while spending time with him : ) I've always loved the past, especially the beauty, glamour and elegance of the 40s and 50s and my hobby collecting vintage from these eras naturally turned into my dream job! My husband and I were on our honeymoon in Rome 3 years ago when I became inspired to start this business. Seeing all the incredible ruins, the breathtaking scenery and the timelessness of the city made me want to be surrounded by beautiful things always. And there is nothing quite as beautiful as vintage clothing (aside from Rome, of course!)

2. WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR IN A PIECE YOU'RE BUYING FOR THE STORE? ARE YOU INFLUENCED BY YOUR PERSONAL TASTE?

I always look for quality, classic style, interesting and unique details, and of course as few flaws as possible. I love the ultra feminine look of 40s and 50s dresses, so I tend to gravitate toward those pieces that I would love to wear myself!

3. IS NOT SAD AND "HEARTBREAKING" TO SELL A PIECE YOU LOVE, LETTING IT PASSES ON? AREN'T YOU TEMPTED TO KEEP ALL FOR YOURSELF?!

Oh yes! That happens frequently. I get very attached to my vintage pieces, but sometimes I just have to let them go, otherwise I won't have enough space to keep more stuff for myself ; ) Each time I purchase something for my store, I complain for one of two reasons: It either fits me perfectly and I have to keep it or it doesn't fit me and I wish it did, so I can't keep it!

4. HOW MUCH OF YOUR PERSONAL WARDROBE IS VINTAGE?

About 70% of my wardrobe is vintage, the rest is vintage style pieces that I mix up with my vintage pieces and accessories. I love 50s sundresses, party dresses and novelty print skirts, 40s suits and hats, and 60s coats.

5. AND WHAT ABOUT CONTEMPORARY DESIGNERS AND PERSONAL HOT SPOTS?

I don't usually buy much contemporary designer stuff, but I'll admit that every time I go to Anthropologie I wish I could buy everything in the store!

6. DO YOU THINK THE INCREASINGLY INTEREST FOR VINTAGE IS ONLY A TREND OR SOMETHING HERE TO STAY?

I definitely think it is here to stay because women recognize its timeless appeal and quality.

7. IF YOU HAD A TIME MACHING TO GO BACK IN TIME, WICH ERA AND WHERE WOULD YOU LIKE TO LIVE?

I would love to have experienced the 50s anywhere in the world.

8. DO YOU THINK VINTAGE IS A GOOD WAY TO EXPRESS THAT SENSE OF NOSTALGIA PEOPLE (LIKE ME...) MAY HAVE FOR PAST DECADES THEY DIDN'T EVEN LIVE TROUGH?

Absolutely!! Being able to wear clothing from the past lets you experience the beauty of that era while enjoying what the present has to offer.

Thank you again Jen, it's been a real pleasure to have you here!

And you don't forget to visit Jen's fabulous store indulging in oh so many perfect vintage items!

Silent Clothing

2009-11-04T08:22:00.000+01:00

Keen on cinema, on silent films starring Louise Brooks and Clara Bow, fascinated by Woody Allen’s movies and atmospheres and inspired by the films based on Agatha Christie’s novels, Elena Massari makes oh so gorgeous garments directly inspired by the Flappers era.

With an extreme care for details, a sense of nostalgia but also a strong desire to re-establish a long lost sartorialist tradition, Elena's unique creations are all about feminine touches and elegance.

The textiles used in her Spring Summer 2010 collection are silks and cottons manufactured by some of the most prestigious Italian companies and all the hats - the fabulous cloche, my favorite! - are completely handmade according to the techniques of traditional millinery.

November Dreams

2009-11-02T13:38:00.001+01:00

There is a big difference between what's on my shopping wishlist and what I should actually buy...i.e. I should look for an heavy coat, but I already know I'll can't find anything I like and I'll spend - it happens every year - the winter with a nice light coat that always come with a free cold!

By the way, here's what I'm loving at the moment...

1. a Monet inspired printed dress, like the one Carey Mulligan wears in An Education. I can't wait for the movie to be released here, as well!

2. This crop top from Topshop, that mixes two of my favorite things: stripes and lace appliques!

3. The vintage inspired cape from Sisley, as seen in this editorial.

4. These amazing and totally out of budget suede platform wedges...

5. Polka dots sheer tights, of course! These are from Tabio.

6. A fun and pretty useful t-shirt...!

7. Warm, soft and long angora mix gloves.

Vintage Halloween

2009-10-29T20:10:00.001+01:00

Halloween is coming and even if we don't (really) celebrate it here, I adore it! So many costume ideas and no parties to attend :-(

What about you?

I just found these gorgeous pictures and I'm in love...

All from Carbonated's Flickr photostream.

Come Fly With Me

2009-10-26T09:37:00.002+01:00

I didn't buy many foreign magazines lately, so I don't know what's going on with fashion editorials etc. but recently I'm pretty happy with the ones published in italian magazines.

You may remember I had some trouble with my old scanner vs new pc, so I had to patiently wait weeks and month to finally scan some images, but now here they are and I have oh so many to post!

This first editorial is definitely one of my favorite ever. It was originally published on the September issue of Elle Italy - which by the way has lately become the best italian magazine, but that's just my opinion - and it is titled "In Divisa" (In Uniform).

'60s stewardess uniforms as an inspiration? Me like!

Be sure to click on the pictures to enlarge!

More editorials to come...stay tuned!

Ode To My Family

2009-10-23T17:41:00.001+02:00

Have you ever imagined the life of your parents before your birth? Well, take a look at their old pictures!

My Parents Were Awesome is a photo gallery of young and cool couples before they magically turned into moms and dads.

Casey, Didier, Andrea, David and the rest of them were awesome and fashion forward indeed...

...but wow, she's definitely my heroine!

Found via The Storque.

And The Winner Is...

2009-10-22T11:54:00.001+02:00

Time to announce the winner of my second anniversary giveaway!

The lucky one, chosen at random, is... Annie

Congratulations dear, I'm gonna send you a message right now :-)

Sacaton June

2009-10-19T18:34:00.000+02:00

These days I'm liking crafty girls even more than new/established designers, so when yesterday and today I spotted the first two pieces from of Jessica's Fall Winter 09 Handmade Collection, I fell in love.

Aren't these gorgeous? I adore the blouse collar and the little bows on the dress! All handmade, you can find them in Jessica's store. And maybe while there, you'll enjoy a bit of vintage shopping too :-)

On a side note, only 2 days left for the anniversary giveaway: enter here!

Too Cold And Music Tag

2009-10-17T19:31:00.002+02:00

This week here is damn cold! It seems we have totally skipped fall in favor of a breezy unespected winter which is not a good thing for me...hence the slow down in blogging...sorry!

Right now that I need something that make me smile, the lovely Meaghan, my favorite road tripper ever, decided to give me this adorable award below that come with a nice music tag. Thanks Meaghan!!

I'm very flattered and determined to be a good girl: I'm bad when I have to reply to tags, but things go slightly better when it's a "musical one", even if it takes me long time!

By the way, here are the rules:
1. You have to post a song that makes you happy.
2. You can tag as many people as you want, there is no limit.
3. Say at least one thing about each blog you tag, that will make them smile, something nice about their blog that makes you smile when you read it!

I thought I'll post the two songs that most of all make me happy at the moment:

Those Danging Days by...Those Dancing Days!

and Let's Go Surfing by The Drums

and I'll pass the award/tag to two of my favorite italian bloggers, my friend Tiz - which I met in real life only last summer, but immediately became a good friend and my partner in crime, as we both share a true passion for vintage - and Miss L'Armadio del Delitto, definitely one the most inventive and smart blogger I know :-)

PS: don't forget to enter my anniversary giveaway! Click here.

Red Heads

2009-10-14T10:41:00.002+02:00

When I was in high school I used to dye mi hair red for a while. It was a very dark shade though, cause my hair is a natural true black and it's oh so difficult to really change the color... I would have loved to be a true ginger head, but all my attempts have always failed!

By the way, my love for this hair color is still alive, so when during my lil shopping trip I finally purchased the latest issue of Lula, I almost screamed in joy.

Of course, with Karen Elson as cover girl you can imagine the whole issue is a love song for redhead girls...

Oh joy, it seems ginger hair are the new black, the next big thing, the coolest in the universe at the moment (along with polka dots black sheer tights, but that's another story).

And look at what's happening on the streets...

(Polka dots tights, btw!!)

Ok, my hair is black in this life, but who knows, maybe in a next one...

All Lula scans are from The Fashion Spot; street style photos are from the always wonderful Vanessa Jackman

Two Years Of Cupcakes And A Giveaway

2009-10-11T14:11:00.000+02:00

Last week was so hectic that I even missed my blog anniversary! Yes, on October 9th The Cupcake Diary turned 2 years old.
During this time many things happened and if this blog is still here it's because of you. I must thank you all my readers for the great feedback I receive everyday: your comments and your always kind words are the greatest thing I could ask for.

I don't know what will happen then, but I hope you'll continue to follow me during this new year of posting and hopefully you'll enjoy this adventure!

As I did on the first anniversary, this year too I set up a little giveaway for you. You can win two pieces from the new collection of Alice Pleasance. Both of them are from the new "flowery" collection, a pair of tiny blue lilies earrings and a charming pink fan hairpin.

The giveaway is open to anyone, all you have to do is leave a comment on this post before October 21st. Winner will be choose at random and promptly announced here...

...Good luck :-)

What I Wore Today...In Drawings

2009-10-09T13:41:00.000+02:00

Sorry for the lack of new posts this week...I had a million boring things to do. Some nice too, as my sewing course started on tuesday...we only made skirts paper patterns this week but next time we'll sew a real one.

Yesterday I went buying the fabric; I had a million ideas - I imagined to purchase a bold colored fabric or something like tweed - and then when I arrived to the store and I had to choose I was so nervous I forgot everything and I came home with something totally classic. It's beautiful though and for a first try it's more than ok!

Lately I am so excited for these sewing lessons that sometimes I find myself thinking I'll soon be able to create and reproduce every skirt, dress and top I see and love...I'm totally crazy and irrealistic, I know! By the way these days I constantly make plans and sketches of what I will wear when (and most of all, if) I will become I decent seamstress.

Just a couple days ago I stumbled upon an almost new Flickr group which is a new version of all the what-I-wore-today groups, cause this ones is for drawings only!

Founded by Gemma Correll, a UK based illustrator, in just about one month the group counts more than 1000 members and pictures. There's even a blog where Gemma post her favorites.

And here are some of my favorites...

Pictures: 1; 2; 3; 4; 5; 6; 7; 8; 9; 10; 11; 12; 13; 14 ; 15; 16.

Where I Have Been

2009-10-04T10:17:00.001+02:00

So, many of you were wondering where I spent my weekend of shopping - which by way was proficuous and fun as expected - and here's the answer...

Not so far away indeed, it's only two hours away from where I live, but hey, that's MY City and it looks so different in every sense from what I reluctantly use to call home now!

I lived and spent there my university years and I so miss it.
Even if the biggest part of the people I met and loved during that time is not living there anymore, even if some of them are thousand miles away, other countries, other stories, I still can feel everything.

And yesterday I realized I so miss this place that everytime I arrive there and look around I feel like I'm visiting one of the most beautiful places in the whole world... I guess this is what they call homesickness!

Like A Holiday

2009-10-01T08:30:00.001+02:00

I'm gonna have an hopefully relaxing and fun pre-weekend of shopping &Co.

See you on Sunday :-)

The New Alice Pleasance

2009-09-28T16:27:00.000+02:00

You may have noticed my Etsy store has been on vacation mode since the beginning of August.

I thought for a while and felt I need to make some changes and most of all I wanted to add something new to my collection.

My long time readers may know I have a real passion for hats and hair accessories, expecially vintage (of course!) or with a retro feeling, so I worked in that direction and after sketching, designing and trying for a while I'm glad to introduce you the new Alice Pleasance's Fascinator Hats.

Made of natural straw, they measure 14 cm around and are available in a variety of colors. The decorations feature velvet leaves, ribbons, feathers and all sorts of fabric and paper flowers and fruits.
I didn't use any plastic flowers at all, cause I want to recreate the look of real vintage hair accessories from our lovely bygone eras.

The only plastic part is the comb sewn on the back of the fascinator. I chose plastic instead of metal, so you can be sure it's actually nickel free!

Apart from the new hats, the miniature cake rings are still available and there is also a new line of earrings and hairpins featuring lucite and plastic flower cabs.

As my brand is called Alice Pleasance I decided to transform my store in a sort of personal Wonderland, naming each section after a chapter of Lewis Carroll's books...

Hope you will join me soon for a crazy Unbirthday party :-)

One Day At The Vintage Fair

2009-09-26T09:14:00.000+02:00

Yesterday was a fun day, me and the wonderful Tiz went to Vintage. La Moda Che Vive Due Volte, a vintage fair we were planning to attend since august! We always talk about the lack of real vintage markets and stores here, so we were pretty excited to go.

It was lot of fun and lot of nice things to see...

this coat was lovely!

Lots of designer vintage items too

look at these incredible Vuitton luggages below...the big one was 2600€! If you enlarge the picture you can see it has old tags from luxury hotels on it: I bet the previous owner made some great journeys...

The prices were generally a bit on the high side, but of course we managed to find something nice to buy.
After trying on several pairs on nice glasses...

Tiz found a beautiful hat to add to her collection

and I fell in love with a pair of vintage glasses

and a really interesting jacket, which curiously is not vintage, but it's from an indipendent italian brand we never heard of before. A post about it will come soon!

Shoe Heaven

2009-09-25T09:52:00.001+02:00

Psycho-logic, the "short fashion movie" written and directed by Christian Louboutin for the opening of his Hollywood-store is pretty weird. It starts like a tribute to Psycho - and I'm sure the girl has stolen the money to buy Louboutin heels - and then it takes a totally different direction. The second part actually reminds me of the aesthetic of certain silent movies. And a good pinch of Pop culture, of course...