Decadence for Divas

March Means.................

2012-03-03T04:21:00.016-08:00

March is definitely one of my favorite months for many reasons;

.........it epitomizes the beginning of Spring for me

........of knowing that the feel of sunlight on my skin is not far away

....... the sight of the morning dew instead of frost

........everyone seems to have removed their Winter veils

and are smiling for no reason(unless you are Victoria Beckham ;-)

.........buds are breaking out of their naked branches

........some of my fav flowers are starting to

shove their shiny snouts through the bare earth

.......the realization that my grey roots can no longer be hidden

under customary winter hats!

.......the smell of freshly laundered sheets that were

left to blow in the breeze

........seeing gorgeous pastel colors in the shops and knowing that

the slow banishment of black from my wardrobe must now begin

......my basket of sunglasses taking residence on my hall

stand so that I can grab any pair as I dash out of the door

.........the realization that the feel of sand between my toes is not

far away (maybe 1 more month if you live in Spain)

.......time to start thinking of summer accessories after

months of scarfs and hats

http://bit.ly/yrzSbM

........new tastes to tantalize the taste-buds after months

of having an excuse for eating comfort foods ;-)

........the amazement that the beginning of Spring is always better

than you expect

.........finally, it's the month when I was born. So it's

always a month of reminiscing, new objectives and

appreciation for another wonderful year on this planet

What's your favorite thing about the beginning of Spring/March?

I Forgive Myself For...........

2012-02-25T05:49:00.013-08:00

As I race through each week at break-neck speed, I seem to constantly live in a state of guilt for all the things I should or shouldn't have done.

So I am going to.....

............ forgive myself for not phoning back a friend who
only ever phones me when she has a problem (do you
have these friends?)

.......... I forgive myself for undermining my worth by sometimes
comparing myself to others success

.......... I forgive myself for getting irritated with an elderly parent

simply because his brain was not working as fast as mine

....... I forgive myself for being 20 mins into a car journey and

not admitting to Hubs I was holding the map upside down

......... I forgive myself for not following up my dental appointment. I have put

"Dr Teeths" children through private school since living in Spain. So I decided

I'm not putting them through University also ;-)

......I forgive myself for using hormones as an excuse

for my "usual" crazy madness

......I forgive myself for burning my chocolate puddle desserts

because I was distracted on Pinterest, but telling Hubs they are meant to be

slightly crunchy ;-)

.......I forgive myself for running through life so fast that

I not only forget where I've been, but also where I'm going

.........I forgive myself for never sticking to a blogging schedule

(I'm convinced my followers don't really care)

......I forgive myself for only being able to think about what I was

going to have for lunch during a meditation class, because

I was SO hungry. Enlightenment passed me by yet again!

.......I forgive myself for bumping into an old client and all

through the conversation I was only trying to remember her

name. The worst thing was she remembered mine

and everything about me

.......I forgive myself for giving up when I still had something to

give, but tiredness got the better of me.

So my Lovelies, what do you forgive yourself for?

C'mon confess, and

just let it go :-)

p.s check out these gorgeous beauties for your summer wardrobe

Sometimes........

2012-02-18T02:42:00.027-08:00

Sometimes.......I get frightened thinking about the future. I know it's

completely futile, but it happens

Sometimes......I wonder what my Mum would have made of some of the life

decisions I have made; decisions I made blindly because she was not around to guide me

Sometimes........I get paralyzed with fear thinking about breast cancer and

whether I will get it (again another futile thought!)

Sometimes........I feel there will never be advances in cancer; not while the

pharmaceutical industry have ultimate control over medical/scientific research

Sometimes........I do stop and just breathe (Hubs calls it "zoning out" ;-)

Sometimes......I wish I could just ring up some of my wonderful blogging

friends and say, "Hey! how do you fancy meeting for a coffee and a

girlie chat".

Sometimes .......I lose hours with Twitter and Pinterest

Sometimes........I wonder what my legacy will be

as I don't have children.

I hope it will be, "she was a good example of a hard-worker,

a better example of a a daughter, and the

best example of a wife and loyal and sincere friend".

Sometimes.........I can spend hours in my kitchen cooking

up a feast for no-one in particular

Sometimes.......I wonder if I followed the "right" path

Sometimes.......I get overwhelmed by how lucky I really am

Sometimes......I wonder what it would be like to be drunk.

I'm a tee-total, and have never been drunk (sometimes

I think it could be fun)

Sometimes.........I wonder if I will ever find the perfect

mascara!

I ALWAYS.................write in my Gratitude journal (this

is my 5th year of doing so, and I love reading back over old

journals)

I NEVER................ask "Why me?" because the answer

always comes back "Why not?".

What are your "sometimes", "always" and "nevers"?

As always I would love to hear

p.s check out these beauties for your Spring/Summer wardrobe ;-)

A Spanish Valentines

2012-02-12T00:00:00.000-08:00

I thought I would bring you some Spanish gems for Valentines

Gold and diamond pendant in a

polyglot heart - Tous

Gorgeous Gold heart earrings- Aristocrazy

Miniyo Wedges- Coolway

Stunning satin shoes-Pura Lopéz

Rosario tulle flowers at your feet -Pretty Ballerinas

I really love this multicolor satchel-Agatha Ruiz de la Prada

Floral clutch -Desigual

Red enamel hearts with Swarovski crystals-Viceroy

For all my lovely friends shivering in a very cold

Europe (including me in Spain!),

stay warm Angels!!!

What are your plans for Valentines, do you not celebrate?

Is Valentines just another commercial marketing day?

Here in Spain it is still not that popular,

altho it is growing in popularity each year.

Couldn't resist this!

Boys will be boys ;-)

Would love to hear what you" really" think ;-)

Love is..........

2012-02-08T11:01:00.001-08:00

* letting you take the first sip of his cappuccino

*a soft, unexpected touch

*what causes you to lose concentration

*looking forward most to aprés-ski ;-)

* knowing what each other are thinking without saying a word

*not asking how much your new shoes and dress cost ;-)

*letting her take over the bathroom

*not complaining even though he only has 1/5th of

the wardrobe space

* not saying anything when he turns over in bed and takes all the

covers with him

*finding strength in each other when disaster strikes

* a necessity not a luxury

*not letting time run out

* him buying you your favorite magazine without you even asking

*letting him drive with the car roof down even though you

know you will arrive at your destination looking like a troll

*the reason we are here

*living spontaneously, not according to a life plan

*the fairytale you want it to be

* holding onto every precious moment

*when your future is as crystal clear as it can be

*always bringing out the best in each other

* not speaking for hours, but knowing the other is a touch away

*wanting the same things in life

*not caring about compromise; it's a given

Please share what love is for you..........................

Madrid Fashion Week 2012

2012-02-04T04:44:00.000-08:00

Well as this week was Madrid Fashion week, I thought I would bring you some Spanish designers who are perhaps as not as well known outside Spain, but who I think create gorgeous "wearable" designs (Ok, not to be worn to the supermarket, but I think you get my drift ;-)

So here goes:

Jesus del Pozo

Not sure if poodle comes with dress ;-)

I can see Kate Middleton wearing something

like this. What do you think?

I love these, but don't like the footwear

they've put with it :-(

Juanjo Oliva

I love ALL his designs. I can't choose a fav.

Adolfo Dominguez

I love all the gorgeous pastel shades, and really

LOVE their sandals!

Amaya Arzuaga (a fav of Penelope Cruz)

I love the first dress.

What do you think? Do you like any of them?

What's your fav?

I'll bring you some more later this week ;-)

Bubbles and Clusters

2012-01-28T03:42:00.000-08:00

So pleased to introduce a new collection to our boutique by Dutch designer Coretta Van Wyk

Her Bubbles and Cluster pieces are so fun and sassy.

Bubbles Bracelet: http://bit.ly/wCue2d

Multi-Bubble Ring: http://bit.ly/xeDxVv

(Different variations of the Bubble ring are shown in our boutique)

2 Ball Bubble Ring http://bit.ly/wNGstj

My Fav http://bit.ly/wPkQHl

Stunning Cluster ring (comes in different variations; all

very organically created) http://bit.ly/yVKNTF

We are offering 15% discount and FREE shipping

on all our Bubbles/ Cluster pieces.

Offer ends Valentines day!

Let me know what you think, and which are your favorites (more

styles are shown on our site.This is just a small selection)

Have a wonderfully glamorous week my Lovelies xx

Getting to Know You

2012-01-21T03:32:00.001-08:00

As we have some new friends who recently joined our blog, or popped over for a chat, I thought it would be nice to share some facts about each other (a fun meme).

Here goes:

i) What's your quickest legal route to joy?

Eating Ben & Jerry's, watching a good film and snuggled in a cashmere throw

ii) What do you ask yourself most often?

"Does my bum look big in this?" (well what do you expect after question 1 ;-)

iii) What was left on your To Do list last week?

Nothing-I micro-manage with military precision (sad really!)

iv) What's your biggest pet-peeve?

Arrogance

v) What is the last book you read?

I've just finished 're-reading 'Embracing Uncertainty' by Susan Jeffers and 'Water' by Dr Batmanghelidj (one of the best books I've ever read. Should be compulsory reading)

vi) Favorite iPad app?

Epicurian, and any apps related to recipes and cooking

vii) What words do you try to live by?

"If you have the choice of being right or kind......always choose kind" and,

"If you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all".

viii) What's the most daring thing you've ever done?

Living in Hong-Kong, then moved to the island Mallorca and then to the Spanish mainland.

ix) Favorite Indulgence?

Luxury travel and best ingredients I can buy when on a "cooking mission".

My fav earrings at the moment http://bit.ly/zaYku5

x)What is the most interesting thing in your handbag right now?

A ring-sizer (someone always wants to know their ring size!)

Please join in the fun (you don't have to answer all the questions if you don't want too). I would LOVE to get to know you each a bit better xx

We're Not Friends Anymore.

2012-01-15T05:48:00.000-08:00

Last week I was "chatting" to one of my lovely blogging friends Leigh, and we were talking about how different our wardrobes are now, to when we were both in the corporate world.

After our conversation, I started thinking about the obscene amounts of money I used to spend on my wardrobe and bags. Just thinking about it was making my toes curl. Let me explain my frivolity :

*it was the late 80's early 90's and I had just started working

*I was young, free and single

* my love-affair (encouraged by my late mum) started with the gorgeous Louis Vuitton boutique in London (so much so that the then shop manager is still a good friend of mine!)

*my Mum used to encourage me by saying my purchases were "investments", so it was OK ;-)

*I had a boyfriend (now my husband) who indulged my passion.

*It was the decade when everyone had "cash to flash!"

my very first bag; my favorite style which is now 20+

years old

I bought 2 pieces a year! Looking back, it was obscene. I spent enough to pay off the debt of a small African state (and I'm not proud of that) :-(

my last purchase about 6+ years ago

Every time I had extra money, it wasn't put aside for a rainy day, for my first property or for my next holiday. No, it went on my next baby-a LV piece. Each new piece became my next BFF:-)

I bought big and small items; from wheelie luggage to the smallest change purse.

My wallet, Filofax and pouch (which clips into the bag above).

However, over the last 6+ years, I've fallen out with my BFF's. Apart from my smaller items I never use these bags anymore. Why?

* maybe I've become more socially conscious as I've got older, but I feel very conspicuous wearing heavily monogrammed pieces; it just feels very vulgar and ostentatious for me now

* I currently live in a country where there are 4 million unemployed; it feels really distasteful to be flaunting such frivolous items in this current climate

*One medium-size bag costs more than the average monthly salary in Spain.

*My daily wardrobe has changed since living in the "wilderness". I can be found in smart casual rather than Armani suits. Add a heavily monogrammed LV bag, and I end up looking like a gangsters moll

Don't get me wrong. I LOVE designer bags and still ask Hubs to buy me one for a special occasion. But I prefer the more discreet designs; Loewe, Mulberry, Carolina Herrera etc. Maybe I will feel differently and use them again when I move back to London. Or maybe these will just contribute to my future pension fund. However, at the moment I have fallen out of love with monogrammed bags.

What do you think? Do you love wearing monogrammed designs in particular?

Are these types of purchases really superficial?

Is it just a way of flaunting to the world that you have "cash to flash"?

I would love to hear your thoughts.

What!!! Another Pair of Shoes?

2012-01-11T11:32:00.001-08:00

Today as I was passing Tous boutique here in Spain, I saw the most beautiful shoes.

You see these are shoes with a difference. They are gorgeous charms designed by the legendary Manolo Blahnik.

The charms are based on his 1994 Campari Mary Jane design . This shoe became something of an iconic shoe after it was featured in numerous films and TV shows (lets not even mention Carrie Bradshaw ;-).
Manolo Blahnik said about his collaboration with Tous,

"I really like Touse because I believe that we have many things in common. We are two family run businesses, we have Spanish roots and both like to surprise and innovate".

What do you think?

Do you like charm jewelry?

Do you like, or own a pair of Manolo's?

Would love to hear what you think.

What I DON'T Wish For You

2012-01-07T03:05:00.000-08:00

This 2012, I DON'T wish for you...........................

....the cake or soufflé that emerges golden and domed, and deflates as you watch

.....the long awaited phone call that turns out to be the wrong number

.....the face that lights up at the sight of you, but passes by to someone just behind ;-)

......the perfect sale shoes half a size too small

.....the TV show you sit up until midnight to watch only to find you've seen it before

......(for all expats) the TV show you sit up until midnight to watch only to find they are not showing the original version, but dubbed in foreign tongues

.....the mutual love that turns out not to be

.....the wrongly delivered parcel

......the daffodils that never open but rot in the bud

Here's a few of mine:

I do NOT wish :

*more fat cells to move onto my hips and thighs and continue living rent-free. You will be evicted this year you little buggers.

* more toxic friends; friends that only contact you when they need something;

that leave me gasping for air and emotionally drained when I've been with them.

* to hear any more about the Kardashian sisters/family. Talentless fame just irritates me.

* to become obsessed about what I eat ; protein vs carbs, trans fats, E numbers........the list gets longer every year. I just want to make small, healthy changes every day.

* that fear stops me from moving forward

* that Mother Nature doesn't bestow us with more natural disasters as in 2011. I think last year she was laughing at us, saying "I told you so. Abuse the earth and this is what happens". OK, we get the message. Enough Mother Nature!!! ;-)

Apart from the obvious such as bad health, divorce etc. What do you not wish for yourselves in 2012?

My Wishes For You In 2012

2012-01-02T02:38:00.000-08:00

This New Year I wish you all the joy of...........

* always having someone to share things with

*that sometimes, just sometimes, you can afford the thing you long for, rather than the thing that will do

*enough good memories to see you through the hard times

* seeing your luggage arriving first on the baggage carousel

* receiving a letter from a friend whose address you've lost

* eating Ben & Jerry's in your pj's

* opening a well-remembered book....the soothing first page...the first familiar words

* being the first to leave footprints in freshly fallen snow

* seeing someone's face light up at the sight of you

* sun-dried laundry

*letters that begin with the words "We are pleased to tell you that....."

* small sticky kisses

*a smile from a stranger

But most of all I wish that in 2012 there will always be something you want to learn, something you want to do, somewhere you want to go, someone you want to meet, and that whatever happens this year you continue to grow and find your bliss.

What's your one wish for yourself this year?

Guest Post-New Years Eve in Austria

2011-12-31T01:10:00.000-08:00

Our second New Years Eve post is from the lovely Ivana who writes the blog Macarons & Pearls
She is originally from Slovakia, has lived in Paris and has recently just moved to Austria.

What would be your ideal New Years Eve?

I´m definitely not a party girl and I don´t like crowded nightclubs, so my ideal New Years Eve would look as follows: a dinner party at our place, with a few of our best friends, loads of delicious food, cupcakes, macarons, great music, loads of laughter and bubbles of champagne!

This year's New Years Eve outfit will be.......
Sequins, sequins, sequins! I love myself some sparkle, so I´ll go for a sequin minidress, sky-high heels and a cocktail ring or two. And a smoky eye, of course :)

What traditions do you have in Slovakia?
Definitely the fireworks. Everyone stocks up on the boxes of fireworks, and at midnight all the hell breaks loose :) You can watch it from your balcony, and it´s really beautiful. Unfortunately, we don´t do this anymore at my parents´ place, because we almost set the house on fire a few years ago... We also love to go downtown to watch the city fireworks, meet some more friends and wish everyone a Happy New Year

This year it´s the first time ever that I won´t be celebrating the NY Eve in Slovakia. I´ll be in Graz with my fiancé and a bunch of friends, and I´m really excited to discover the way the Austrian people celebrate and all their special habits!

What beauty product can you not survive without during the festive season?

A great moisturizer! The weather is so cold in Austria, and my skin suffers a lot, so I try to take special care of it. I´m more than addicted to Dior´s Hydra Life Skin Perfect and Clarins´ HydraQuench Mask. And since my lashes are virtually non existent, I couldn´t survive without a great mascara, no matter the time of the year :)

Best Stress Reliever?

When I feel stressed out ot unhappy, I just need to curl up on the couch with a cup of hot chocolate and a great book (I´m pretty much obsessed with Hunger Games series right now, and these books make me forget all the stress and problems!)

What your hopes and dreams for 2012?
Wow, this is a tough one. I gave up on New Year resolutions a long time ago: if I want to change something about my life, I try to do it immediately, I don´t see the point in waiting until the new year. But each December I love to put together a list of things that I´m sure will make me happier. I want to spend as much time as possible working on my blog and my new career, because it brings me so much joy and fulfilment! I hope I´ll soon be able to have a proper conversation in German, and I want to discover all the wonderful things and opportunities my new country and city have to offer. I want to read tons of amazing books, watch all the new movies, get inspired by everything around me, design my own clothes, bake the best macarons in the world (watch out, Ladurée :), learn one new thing everyday, become a better person and leave a little trail of beauty behind me... Plus, I´m really looking forward to planning my wedding and I hope everything goes well :)
And I really, really hope to spend as much time as possible with the people I love the most: my fiancé, my parents and my best friends. Here´s to an amazing new year 2012!

Wow! great resolutions Ivana, and thank you SO much for guest posting for me. It just remains for me to say I wish you all the best for 2012, and thank you for all your wonderful support on my blog (and off the blog) this year. It's been wonderful getting to know you :-)

And to all my wonderful followers and friends, I want to wish you ALL a fabulous 2012. Thank you all so much for your blog support, and also for the wonderful "friendships without borders" I have made. Here's to another year of sisterhood support xx

Guest post-New Years Eve with Liliian Harlow

2011-12-27T02:36:00.000-08:00

This New Years Eve guest post is from the lovely Lily of Lillian Harlow from Australia, who wants to share with us NYE in Oz.

What is your ideal way to spend New Years Eve?

My ideal way to spend NYE is with a cocktail party at our house. We live in the middle of Melbourne, one block from the Yarra River and from our balcony we have a glorious view of the fireworks that line the river. We are also a short walk to the centre of the "action", so often we'll gather our guests and go for a walk to stand under the fireworks for midnight... then wander home to finish off the night in comfort! It's a glorious way to spend the evening, and even though I often wonder what I've gotten myself in for the day prior (when I'm cooking all day in the sweltering Australian heat in the kitchen), it's always worth it! Our apartment is not really suited to a sit down dinner for more than 6, so when we have a lot of guests, a cocktail function is ideal. The upside is that I have become the queen of finger food ;)

What will be your New Years Eve outfit this year?

Most years, NYE in Melbourne is VERY hot! The hottest I have experienced was 42 degrees celcius (approx 108f). Our home is not airconditioned and a breeze will only do much. So most years I dress to be cool and comfortable. This year I think a light maxi dress will be in order, something simple so that I can go all out with my accessories. There's nothing like bold and bright jewellery to say "Happy New Year".

Do you have any unusual traditions that take place in Australia? Here in Spain we must eat 12 grapes with the strike of each bell at midnight. Anything similar?
I'm not aware of any traditions that take place at midnight in Australia other than kisses and champagne... but really, how could anything else compare to kisses and champagne anyway? ;)

Your drink of choice?

My drink of choice for NYE is often a long cool glass of fresh punch, which is both refreshing and dangerously drinkable. We are also very big fans of cocktails, and my Beloved makes a mean muddled strawberry mojito which is delicious on a hot night.

If you could be somewhere other than Australia, where would you like to ring in the New Year?

If I were overseas for NYE, I would have to say that I'd love ring in the new year in NYC! It has always been a dream of mine to enjoy a white Christmas and NYE there.

What beauty product can't you survive without during the party season?
The most important product for me in the festive season (and just about any other season) is my SFP 30+. I am incredibly pale and for us Christmas and NYE usually means a lot of time spent at the beach, or enjoying outdoor picnics and the like. Without my SPF I would be ringing in the new year looking redder than Rudolph's nose.

What is your best stress reliever?

My best stress reliever is my fiance. It is a cliche, but if things do become too manic, a quiet cuddle is just the trick to melt it all away and get me back on track. That or a sneaky afternoon G & T ;)

What are your hopes and dreams for 2012?

We are getting married in 2012, so that definitely factors into my hopes and dreams for the year:

- I hope that my parent's health improves and that their quality of life can be increased somewhat
- I hope that our wedding planning goes smoothly and that we both enjoy our day, surrounded by our family and friends
- I hope that the last 5 years of stress within our business finally pay off and we can have some peace of mind and financial security
- I hope that 2012 will bring health and happiness to those near and dear to me
- I hope that this time next year when we reflect on the year that was, that there will be many fond memories to revisit

A BIG thank you to the lovely Lily for sharing her NYE with us. It is just left for me to wish her a wonderful 2012, and hope that all her dreams and wishes come to fruition.

A Peep Through my Christmas Window.

2011-12-23T03:00:00.000-08:00

OK friends, to end my Christmas series, I will give you a peep into my Christmas window this Christmas ;-)

How important is Christmas for me or can I take it or leave it?

I don't have children so I am sure I miss out on many things that parents experience at this time. Nonetheless, I love Christmas and all the preparations leading up to it. When I lived in the UK, my husband and I would volunteer for Shelter (an organization for the homeless) every Christmas Day (much to the annoyance and disdain of our families). It was an extremely emotional time for both of us, but made a lasting impact. I still think back to some of the people we met and wonder how they are all doing.

Nat King Cole, Michael Bublé, Handel's Messiah or Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Suite?

All of the above including, Harry Connick Jr.

Turkey or not?

When in the UK it's a goose. But this is our first Christmas in Spain despite living here 11 years. Consequently the main course will be "cochinillo"-suckling pig! I'm not sure how I am going to get through cooking this little cherub (it really looks so sweet), but promised Hubs I would try ;-)

Switzerland

If I could spend Christmas in any other place other than the UK or Spain where would I choose?

My first choice would be Switzerland where I have family, and where all Christmases were spent when I was a child. My second choice would Aspen, Colorado. As you can tell Christmas is not really Christmas for me without snow ;-)

What books am I hoping to receive this Christmas?

My Amazon wish list is about to combust. But if I can give just two choices (both non-fiction/autobiographical) it would be:

i)Life Without Limits-Nick Vujicic

ii) An Invisible Thread - Laura Schroff

What beauty product is my Christmas fail-safe?

It would have to be Clarins Beauty Flash Balm ( during the day) and Decleor Neroli oil (at night).

What do I buy the girlfriend that has everything?

It would have to be a Jo Malone Pine & Eucalyptus scented candle or Acqua di Parma Red Berries candle.

Anything else I would like to share?

* Christmas is not about perfection; so don't get so wrapped up in making everything perfect that you forget to stop and smell the roses

* savor every minute

*spend a few minutes just being grateful for all that we are fortunate to have

* forget calorie control for a few days. Life's too short :-)

*remember those less fortunate; there is always someone close by

*embrace the power of giving; it truly is the best feeling

Finally I would like to say a HUGE thank you to all the bloggers that did guest posts. We will have a few more between Christmas and New Year with the emphasis being on New Years celebrations instead, so keep your eyes peeled.

I would also like to thank all my wonderful followers and friends who have made my "baby steps" into blogging such a wonderful and joyous experience (despite not being a very keen writer).

Thank you ALL so much and I wish you all a wonderful holiday. Here's hoping Santa is kind to each and every one of you.

p.s Do stay tuned as we have two New Years Eve guest posts from very different parts of the world ;-)

Guest post: Christmas with Looking Fab In Your 40's

2011-12-20T03:00:00.000-08:00

OK, our fourth guest post is from the lovely Sharron who writes the sassy blog Looking Fab in your 40's

Admittedly, Sharron and I haven't been following each other as long as some of my other "guests", but I just love her sassy blog; written for 40-somethings who don't want to start dressing like their spinister aunt of 70!

Also, she hails from my part of the world, and often her posts remind me just why I want to return ;-)

Here's a peep through Sharron's window on Christmas Day in the UK.

What does Christmas mean to you, or can you take it or leave it?
Christmas is very important but if I didn't have four children it might not be!

What are you hoping to find under the tree this Christmas?
I have asked for lots of new make-up, so I am really hoping to get that and try out some new products

Flats or heels on Christmas Day?
Flats, I can't cook in heels!

What will be your Christmas outfit be this year?
A jersey or knitted dress, something nice and comfortable

Do you serve anything unusual for Christmas Day lunch other than the traditional turkey and Christmas pud?
Just the traditional Christmas lunch , nothing unusual

Nat King Cole, Michael Bublé, Handel's Messiah or Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Suite?
Michael Bublé

What one book do you hope to receive this year?
There are no books on my Christmas list this year

The beauty product you can't live without over the festive season?
I can't live without a decent hand cream

What do you buy the girlfriend who has everything?
A Diptique scented candle

If you could spend Christmas somewhere else other than the UK, where would you choose?
New York; it's a no-brainer!

How are you hoping that this Christmas will be different from previous ones?
I'm not hoping it will be different from previous years. All I ever want is for my kids to be healthy and happy. I have enjoyed every Christmas the same since first becoming a parent 22.5 years ago!

Thank you SO much Sharron for giving us this peep into your Christmas Day. I wish you a wonderfully "chic" festive period, and hope that 2012 brings you everything that you wish for (and if that includes another pair of Jimmy Choos or a Chanel bag, so be it!).

Guest Post-Christmas with MyBigFatGreekMove

2011-12-17T03:00:00.000-08:00

OK, my third guest post is by the lovely Sandee. Sandee is originally from the UK, of Hong-Kong heritage and now living in Greece. We've not known each other long, but our mutual connection came from both being ex-pats in Mediterranean countries (spiraling out of control ;-)

Sandee writes the lovely blog My Big, Fat, Greek Move

Here's a peep through Sandee's Christmas window in Greece.

How important is Christmas for you or can you take it or leave it ? When I was younger it meant going out a lot celebrating & catching up with friends and family. Now that I have moved across the pond, Christmas is still important to me, but I can also take it or leave it too, depending if my family are visiting. I've been working every X-mas Eve, X-Mas day and Boxing Day for the past 5 years now (it happens when you run 2 businesses) and I spend any free time invested in family time.

What one gift are you really "hoping" to find under the Christmas tree this year? Know what I haven't even thought about this to be honest! Errr???

Flats or heels on Christmas Day? Flats for work and Heels for going out for sure!!!

What does Christmas day lunch usually comprise of in Greece? This is a funny one, as we usually have lamb rather than Turkey! If there are lots of us we'll order 10kilos of lamb! How banana's is that??? Usually we have lunch/dinner together at midnight when the working day is over for us and the family will sit down for gallons of red wine and delicious Greek lamb, roast potatoes, roast veg. (Even though Pork is usually eaten at X mas). I think we might break tradition at some point and go with Turkey one year!

Nat King Cole, Michael Bublé, Handel's Messiah or Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Suite playing in the background? A mixture of the above, but I do love a bit of Nat King Cole and Tony Bennett and the occasional blast of 'All I want for Christmas' by Mariah Carey!

What one book do you hope to receive this year? I have an insane list of books saved on my Amazon wishlist, but I still have 'Pictures' by Tim Walker on my list. I love his work.

Best Christmas film? There are far too many not to mention. For Comedy it has to be 'Home Alone', Romance: 'Love Actually' or 'The Holiday', Action: 'Die Hard' and each year they always used to put 'The Wizard of Oz' on every Xmas in the UK. I also love 'Gentlemen prefer Blondes' and anything with Sinatra or Astaire.

The beauty product you can't live without over the festive season? Estee Lauders Idealist, Illuminator for even skin tone! Amazing for photographs too as the light just bounces off your skin! Awesome stuff!

What do you buy the girlfriend who has everything? This is really hard, but I do like to be inventive or creative, so I sometimes go to 'Notonthehighstreet.com' to personalise gifts, pick out a real gorgeous coffee table book or buy some crystal martini glasses plus cocktail shaker and recipe book! (Alternatively a pair of stunning Champagne flutes)

What is your fail-safe stress reliever? My man! He rocks, always knows how to calm me down and say the right things! If he's not around a glass of red vino or a Martini please!

If you could spend Christmas somewhere else other than Greece, where would you choose? It would be London, with my family and friends, then Hong Kong where my other family are located and possibly Sydney for some fun & sun!!!

What is your favorite Christmas memory from the past? Being real naughty and opening presents at 6am with my brother when we were kids! We'd sneak downstairs, knowing which steps not to step on as they creak and head straight for the living room, tearing open everything with our names on it!

Anything else you wish to share? Just to wish everyone one of your fabulous readers a wonderful Christmas and a Super Duper Wow New Year V!

Thank you SOOOO much Sandee. I know how busy you are, so really appreciate your time and kindness. Wishing you a fabulous Christmas and New Year too Sweets!

Guest post- Christmas with Cupcake Caramel

2011-12-13T03:00:00.000-08:00

OK our second guest blogger is from the lovely Rebekah at Cupcake Caramel.

Rebekah writes a fab blog all about her efforts to live a chic and french-inspired life; channelling her inner-Bridget Bardot as she goes along. Her posts are very witty, sometimes quite serious, but always gives me food-for-thought (talking of food her recipes are great also) She really is Texas' answer to the Domestic Goddess ;-)

Here's a peep through Rebekah's Texas window this Christmas.

What are you most hoping to find under the Christmas tree this year?
I assume we’re discussing reality, yes? If so, then I would love a box of Fran’s sea salt caramels, a bottle of Krug or Tattinger, Jo Malone bath gel, and an antique letter opener.

Nat King Cole,Michael Bublé, Handel's Messiah or Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Suite?
Nat King Cole AND Handel’s Messiah. My husband and I have one tradition during the Christmas season: tickets to the symphony to see The Messiah. One of these years I’m going to locate a sing-along and participate. There are some beautiful second soprano parts. I get my singing-fix satisfied by participating in the church choir for their annual Christmas concert.

Turkey or not?
Not; I’d rather indulge in roast beef or prime rib, pan drippings and Yorkshire pudding.

Best Christmas film?
Love Actually

What French details/ dishes will you ensure your Christmas includes this year?
We usually attend church on Christmas Eve at 11 PM, but we’re not Catholic – so I guess I would celebrate in a more Huguenot tradition. We also give gifts to the needy at this time of the year, such as Operation Christmas Box, which packages gifts to send to orphanages, and Project Angel Tree, which sponsors a child of an incarcerated parent. I like to use natural ornaments in my decorations, so I’m really into the idea of hanging homemade orange pomanders and strings of cranberries. As far as French food traditions, a buche de Noel is calling to me right now!

If you could spend Christmas in any other place other than the US, where would you choose?
England! I have a fantasy of attending church services in an idyllic, old church and attending a concert at St. Martin in the Fields. Then we’d do the cracker thing, drink hot rum, and eat pudding all day.

What one book are you hoping to receive this Christmas?
I’d like the entire collection of the Mitford sisters’ letters.

What beauty product is your 'Christmas fail-safe'?
Jo Malone’s Pomegranate Noir (I still have samples I’m using); it is dark and heavy – perfect for the holiday events you are attending, as well as for a special night at home. It drives my husband wild.

Flats or heels on Christmas Day?
Flats; we tend to wear nice jeans, great sweaters (NO Reindeer ones), and our indoor shoes, which are usually old driving moccasins. Christmas remains fairly casual, unless we are off to church services.

How do you hope to make Christmas different this year from other years (either by something you do or simply because of a change of perspective)?
We do not live around family, and we do not have children, so it is both liberating and challenging that we fully dictate how our Christmas is spent. We’ve had a rather full year and need some relaxation time for the holidays. I would like to open our home for friends to drop by for afternoon tea and share in the dessert celebration. I won’t be making treize desserts as they do in Provence, but I wouldn’t mind having an excuse to make the buche de Noel and some other goodies to share with friends.

Thank you so much Rebekah. Wishing you a wonderful Texan Christmas, and all you wish for yourself in 2012.

p.s love the fact Rebekah wants to spend Christmas in England (feeling a little smug now ;-)

Guest post:Christmas with Bourbon and Pearls

2011-12-09T03:35:00.000-08:00

As I look back on the 18 months that I have been blogging, I am still astounded by some of the truly lovely people I have met and friends I have made; something I had never envisaged when I started my blogging journey.

So this month, I would like to showcase a few of them.

It was very difficult to pick only a handful, so in the end my criteria became:
* to pick some bloggers from different parts of the globe
* to pick those bloggers I know don't have young children. I know all my wonderful friends with children barely have time to catch their breath in the lead up to Christmas, and I didn't want to put anyone in the position of saying yes when they were really thinking, "Damn, I can't add one more thing to my to-do list!"

That was it!

So here is our first guest blogger, the lovely Tabitha from Bourbon & Pearls
Tabitha's blog is really very humerous (sometimes satirical), and always has me spluttering over my cornflakes whilst reading her latest offering. Warning: have your dictionary close at hand, she uses "big" words. She is definitely up there with some of the literary best when it comes to writing.

Here's a peep through Tabitha's window in Scotland, this Christmas.
How important is Christmas for you, or can you take it or leave it ? Christmas is such a wonderful time of year, here in the northern hemisphere we would die without this festival which is rooted in our pagan heritage. Holly and ivy offer protection for the year ahead and the lights associated with Christmas lead us on our way to the New Year.

What one gift are you really "hoping" to find under the Christmas tree this year?Flannel pj's.

Flats or heels on Christmas Day? I am usually barefoot indoors but I'll gussy myself up and put on ballet pumps for Christmas Day, I'm a bit of a hippie at heart, I have never worn heels indoors in my life!

Do you cook/serve anything unusual for Christmas Day fayre? Not really, it's fairly traditional here, goose with all the trimmings, brandy butter, and Christmas pud.

Nat King Cole, Michael Bublé, Handels Messiah or Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Suite playing in the background? Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin.

What one book do you hope to receive this year? The Penguin vintage classic edition of Madame Bovary.

Best Christmas film? National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation.

The beauty product you can't live without over the festive season? Aveda Air Control hairspray - I have Texan hair.

What do you buy the girlfriend who has everything? A donation to the Dog & Cat Home in her name. Who doesn't want to buy a dog its Christmas dinner?

Favourite Christmas tipple? Winter Pimm's and Champagne.

If you could spend Christmas somewhere else other than Scotland, where would you choose? The Beverly Hills Hotel

Christmas pudding or not? The best Christmas is a little bit Dickensian and this festive bomb of suet, flour, sultanas and brandy indulges the Mr Fezziwig in all of us.

Is there one gift that will always unlock your heart? Anything which comes with a heartfelt inscription.

Anything else you would like to share about Christmas? Each year I toast Coca Cola for giving us our jolly red Santa.

Thank you so much Tabitha. I wish you a wonderful festive season, and nothing but health and happiness for 2012 xx

p.s please pop over to Hampton Hostess and see my Spanish-inspired Christmas guest post over there ;-)

The Princess Connection/ Blog Giveaway Winner

2011-12-03T17:36:00.000-08:00

Before I announce our blog giveaway winner, I would like to introduce you to the gorgeous designs of Lily Gardner.

What makes Lily's designs so unique is that they are created using Chantilly lace-still made on the original 18th Century hand-looms in France. The French lace used in her collection is made in Northern France by one of the oldest lace making houses.

So what's the "Princess Connection" I hear you all screaming? Well her lace is sourced from the same lace-making house that was used for the lace in Kate Middletons wedding dress! Yes, it is honestly true, I couldn't make this up if I tried ;-)

Lily's designs have also graced the counters of Harrods and The Victoria & Albert Museum (London) and 'Colette', Paris' most revered fashion boutique.

A gorgeous pendant;Chantilly lace
encased in Pexiglass and suspended
from stunning jet black beads

http://bit.ly/vS9Ef0

A gorgeous cuff featured in Vogue magazine's
"must-have" pages.

http://bit.ly/vpewP0

Another gorgeous pendant
http://bit.ly/vIWfl3

Cute Heart Earrings
http://bit.ly/sAJ2ZZ

Finally I would like to say a HUGE thank you to all who entered our Giveaway.
The winner is: Carolrowley55 . Carol I've sent you a tweet, but please contact me and let me know which colour stone you would like in your bracelet ;-)

Stack 'Em Up Girls/Giveaway

2011-11-26T09:28:00.000-08:00

I am so excited to introduce a new designer to our site-Bita Pourtavoosi.

Growing up in a Persian-Middle Eastern family and community set the tone for her creative exploration through jewelry design. She has always been very stimulated and intrigued by Ancient Egyptian jewelry as well as Middle Eastern motifs. Her intense study and background in painting has also begun her love of bold colors. Bita’s jewelry collection has created a balanced world between her inspirations and her intense passion for the world of fashion.

Here is just a small selection of her items; we have many, many more listed in our boutique This gorgeous stacking ring will add a punch

of colour to your wardrobe
http://bit.ly/w0LnIo

There’s a reason this stacking ring set is
called Bubblegum Pop! http://bit.ly/ssxqES

The perfect stacking ring set for wearing
everyday http://bit.ly/s4wxks

The perfect stacking ring set for wearing
everyday http://bit.ly/s4wxks

14 stunning jewelled stacking bangles.
Make an entrance with
these on your arm http://bit.ly/rW88x6

OK so here is where our GIVEAWAY comes in. We are offering ONE jewelled bangle from the set above (the winner can select the stone they want) in the "hope" we start your "stacking addiction" ;-)

RULES:

*Follow us here and leave a comment

* Follow us on Facebook and leave a comment there (our link is on the left hand sidebar)

*Follow us on Twitter and leave a comment there (our Twitter link is on the left hand sidebar).

One winner will be drawn Sunday 4 December, and the name will be taken from either our Twitter followers, blog followers or Facebook followers.

Good Luck!! Remember you have to play to win ;-)

A Walk in the English Countryside

2011-11-20T03:53:00.000-08:00

OK,my friends, before you start grabbing your Hunter Wellington boots, I must confess it's not a "real" walk in the English countryside.

I wanted to introduce you to a new designer Marie Walshe who joined our boutique.

OK, what does this have to do with the English countryside I hear you all asking.

Well, all Marie's gorgeous pieces are cast from real twigs taken from the Sussex countryside in the UK where she lives.

Just take a look at these gorgeous pieces.

These gorgeous hoops are hand cast from

from real twigs. They are available in Sterling

Silver and 18ct Gold vermeil

http://bit.ly/ufKW52

These stunning bangles are great for any nature lover and looks fab worn

in multiples or with other bracelets

http://bit.ly/vlIWwn

These stunning pendants depict gorgeous budding garlands
and are available in both Silver and Gold Vermeil.
The chain length is 24" (61cm)
http://bit.ly/rxgSsS

These stunning drop earrings look like glistening drops of buds
http://bit.ly/uFPB0F

Ok, lets take that walk.

While we are walking let me tell you that we are offering a 20% discount and FREE shipping on this new Forest Collection. This offer ends Monday 28 November 2011.

I would love to hear your opinion on these new pieces .

Happiness is ...............

2011-11-13T03:42:00.001-08:00

......waking up, opening the curtains and
seeing that it has snowed over night

.....wearing gorgeous heels

......surrounding yourself with people who are going
to lift you higher and make you a better person

.........watching my luggage coming out first on
the carousel at the airport. I always whoop with joy!

....making lists to convince myself I'm doing something
useful when I am in fact procrastinating

........wearing Juicy Courture tracksuit bottoms even though
I know they make me look like a criminals wife!

....listening to 'Dancing Queen' by Abba
or 'Don't Stop Me Now' by Queen.

.....spending an afternoon with only a stack
of books/magazines for company, and the sound of silence

.......an unconditional hug

.....watching a film that always makes me smile such as Grease
or It's a Wonderful Life

OK friends, taking it as a given that we all want to spend time
with our loved ones, what other things make you happy?

More Difficult Than You Think!

2011-11-07T03:13:00.000-08:00

This is really more difficult than I thought.

If we accept that it is a given we are all kind and honest, then what ONE adjective do you think best describes you?

I will start the ball rolling for me. I would choose.........optimistic (by nature).

What about you my friends?

p.s please pop over to the lovely Ironing Basket blog where I have done a guest post on what Wellness means to me. See if you agree.

No Weeds in this Garden!

2011-10-30T07:35:00.000-07:00

We are absolutely thrilled to have found the wonderfully, talented designer Zelda Wong to join our site and feel very honoured she wants to showcase her pieces in our boutique.

The collection we are showcasing is called Winter Garden, and I think the sheer beauty and precision of the pieces speak for themselves.

This gorgeous Garland ring only went on-line
last night. I happened to tweet about it, and this
morning my Inbox was full of enquiries and
orders!!

This Garland pendant is one of 2 gorgeous variations.

Zelda is originally from Macau but has lived in the UK for some time. Her inspiration comes from her love of the English countryside and typical English country gardens.
Her designs of these botanical forms encapsulates the beauty of the flower and plant.

Aren't these Lily drop earrings divine?

Every piece of jewellery is individually hand-made in her workshop in the UK (and all product materials are only sourced within the UK).

She is also the winner of the Loumin Design Innovation Award (2009).

These stunning drop earrings are based on the Winter
Eucalyptus plant.How stunningly original are these?
The matching pendant is just below.

This is the gorgeous Eucalyptus pendant that can be
matched with the earrings above. Every leaf is individually
handmade and pierced onto the stem; exquisite!!

Her designs really are stunning, exquisite, delicately feminine and really unique.

The rest of the Winter Garden Collection is showcased in our boutique.

As a special introductory offer to my blog followers only, I am offering a 15% discount on any piece from the Winter Garden Collection along with FREE International shipping (what has possessed me!?) Please e.mail me to utilise the discount.

This offer will end on Sunday 6 November 2011

To Kindle or not to Kindle?

2011-10-23T06:30:00.001-07:00

OK, here's the deal. Like many of you that follow this blog I am an avid reader. My postman delivers Amazon packages so often, he is now part of the family!

I love books; I love waiting for them to arrive (it's always a surprise even though I know they are on their way). I love spending a Saturday afternoon in my favorite bookshop in London (Daunt-the oldest bookshop in the UK). I love the feel of a new book; the smell of the crisp, new pages. (I know I should get out more). And there is always a book in my bag, wrapped in a gorgeous organza black bag the same way IT girls go everywhere with their chihuahua's (I told you I need to get out more!)

She looked gorgeous even reading!

I can find a cosy nook where ever I am to indulge in my passion.

(via Pinterest: Pinmarklet)
What I would give to cosy up here on a winter's night

I have been known to make Hubs turn the car back on the way to the beach, and drive 50km in the opposite direction because I had forgotten my books.

(via Pinterest-NoraM)

(via Pinterest-KNeale)
Wow! this would be my ideal spot

However as I start packing up my life in Spain, I've started to box up my books to be shipped back. I have boxed 10 HUGE boxes, and they are only 75% of my books. I see Hubs going a ghastly shade of green everytime he walks past them.

It suddenly occured to me just how much space my books take up.

However I've still resisted buying a Kindle/e-reader ever since they came out, for the above reasons. Tell me :

*Do you have an e/reader?
*Is it the best thing since sliced bread?
*Am I missing out on a wonderful, 21st century invention?
*Is the reading experience just as enjoyable when done electronically?
*But how will we create gorgeous reading havens in the future (as in the images shown), if the way to go is electronic?

I would love to hear your views for and against the wonderful e-readers/Kindle.

Do I ask Santa for one or not?

(via Pinterest-Pinmarklet)
I just couldn't resist this. Start 'em young I say!!

p.s this post reminds me of a conversation Hubs and I had a few months ago (which I shared with my Twitter friends), talking at cross-purposes as we usually do. I was talking about reading with a Kindle, and Hubs thought I was talking about reading with a candle! I wish I could have recreated that conversation here. It truly was hysterical!

It's a Wrap!

2011-10-18T06:39:00.000-07:00

I read last week that Hermés has launched it's first store in India. Wow!

They have launched a limited-edition line of saris; the 27 designs, which will sell for between $6,100 to $8,200 and will be based on the luxury label's famed scarves.

The garments would be sold with a metre of extra twill silk so that, in accordance with tradition, a top can be tailored in the same fabric.

Apparently is is the first time printing has been done over fabric measuring 5.5 metres (18 feet) long by Hermés ateliers.

Hermés is taking the Indian market very seriously, having recently opened their flagship store in Mumbai.Here are some of our pieces that I think would look great with Eastern-inspired dress.

Gorgeous double hoops with 12 sparkling gemstones in Amethyst

and black tourmalated quartz. 5cm wide.

http://bit.ly/iefHbq

Gorgeous large silver hoops with
Garnet clusters

http://bit.ly/gCioJU

Stunning hammered silver earrings in an organic pomegranate shape.
4.5 cm diameter. Available also in brass

http://bit.ly/hMuRVD

Gorgeous hammered brass double lotus earrings.
Available in Silver also.

http://bit.ly/kpkcfy

Waterfall of Silver finished with a gorgeous garnet stone
http://bit.ly/fFsoCt

What do you think about Hermés opening in India.
*Have they got it right to target this emerging market?
* Would you spend $6k-8k for a garment from Hermés?
*Can any garment warrant that price tag?
*Should they be opening in a country that still has such extreme poverty, or are the two not connected?

Burberry has not done so well in India, so I am not totally convinced, but would love to hear your views.

(All jewellery from our boutique).

Don't be Arrogant! (Breast Cancer Awareness)

2011-10-12T03:47:00.000-07:00

Most of you following my blog for some time know that I lost my Mum at a very early age (for both of us) to the dreaded Big C. She was only 48, and I was only 24. To think I am only a few years short of when her life ended, makes me shudder every time. In fact she died during Breast Cancer Awareness month-how ironic.

My Mum's favourite flower

So as you can imagine Breast Awareness month is important for me.

I'm not really a "preachy" type, but today I am going to PREACH; loud and bold, because I feel so passionately about this.

I am BEGGING all my lovely followers to please give yourself the gift of this book.

STOP reading your fiction, glossy magazines and anything else just for a few days and read this.

I read this book about 6 years ago ( and I re-read it every year), and was so excited and appalled by what I was reading, that in a frenzied state (which I am known to be afflicted with), I gifted it one October to all my best girlfriends. Suddenly it felt like breast cancer was no longer a lottery; I could really have a lot of say in whether this horrid disease found me or not (despite it running in my family).

Let me tell you this is the book the pharmaceutical companies, and doctors DO NOT want you to read.

As many of you know, I worked as a Consultant for the Medical Research Council for over 10 years, and let me tell you:

*the research that is funded is decided principally by which "big boys" from the Pharma industry are behind the research.
*Most doctors will manipulate their research in line with what a pharmaceutical company asks, if they are behind the funding.I have seen these discussions first-hand, and I was sick to the stomach with what I heard
*The medicine your doctor prescribes you for this deadly disease is decided principally on the price of the medication, NOT the effectiveness.

Lets not forget that BILLIONS have been poured into Cancer Research, and in the last 40 years we are not that much more advanced. If cancer research was a private business, the shareholders would have closed down the business decades ago.

I say in my title "Don't be Arrogant" because I want you to know you could be affected by this deadly disease.
If you look to the left you will see I have 139 Google Followers. Just think, 1 out of every 4 of us are likely to get breast or ovarian cancer. PLEASE don't let it be you.

Two of my very good friends (who I gifted this book too) both had BC before aged 42!
*Both were given months to live.
*Both had young children who they were determined to see grow up (the same as the author). *Both took action from this book, much to the disdain and indignation of their doctors (and sometimes even family).
*Five years later, BOTH are cancer free.(Remember they were both given only months to live!)
From this book they learnt what products to eliminate from their diet (there aren't many, but there is one HUGE one you should know about). They learnt the questions to ask their doctors (the questions the doctors are hoping you don't ask), and they both refused chemotherapy!

PLEASE (don't make me beg again ;-) Buy this book now.

I bought my book from www.bookdepository.co.uk (which offers free international shipping. So no excuses ;-)

Note: I am not a Medic or a Research Scientist (the author is though). I am not "anti-doctors" (I come from a family of doctors). I have NO affiliation with the author or with the Book Depository. I am just someone who doesn't want to be touched again by this horrid disease.

He Loves Me? He loves Me Not?

2011-10-10T04:04:00.000-07:00

Last week saw a wedding here in my "adopted" city of Seville. The wedding of the loveable but eccentric Duchess of Alba (aged 85), to her "toyboy" (aged 61).

The deed has been done

Those of you who follow me on Twitter know there were a lot of tweets and questions about this union.Did the Spansish really love her, or were they laughing at her? What about the groom, did he really love her, or her titles? The questions were thick and fast on Twitter.

I really didn't have an opinion, so asked some of my Spanish clients and friends, was this really a love union? Here are some things I learnt about the Duchess and her celebrated union:

*She is the most noble/titled woman in the world. If she meets Queen Elizabeth II, the Queen must curtsey to her.

Before the perils of Botox and plastic surgery!

*She is descended from King James II and related to both Winston Churchill and Princess Diana
*Her library alone is valued at 36 million pounds and includes Christopher Columbus's first map of America
*She was listed in Vanity Fair's Best Dressed List along with Lady Gaga
* A client of mine here in Spain,who used to be her "Maid of Honour" at all the Debutánte balls told me that "ordinary" Spanish people love her. But the high society of Spain (and especially Seville) are embarrased by her antics and wish she would not be such a "loose cannon".
*However, the citizens of Seville, love her. She is very close to the citizens of the city; she walks around without bodyguards, chats to people etc and has donated a lot of money to various charities in Spain, but particularly in Seville.
* Nothing is known about the past relationships of the Groom. Rumour has it that the Duchess has paid the Press Association (equivalent) not to say anything. Quite common here in Spain.
* She is very happy buying in markets even though she can afford the best designers in the world. Her wedding attire was made by Spanish designers Vittorio & Lucchino.
* She was a first class flamenco dancer when she was younger, learning from THE best flamenco dancer in Spain.

Not quite sure "strutting her stuff" was appropriate. But then again
it was her day, not mine ;-)

* She was the first woman in Spain to master the art of bullfighting whilst mounted on a horse.

At the bull-ring of Seville with Jackie Kennedy.
Clearly poor Jackie O isn't enjoying what she is seeing.

But the big question everyone keeps asking is, are they in love? Everyone you speak to or listen too agrees she is definitely in love. Alfonso Diez (the Groom) is another question altogther. Everyone seems to unanimously agree that he is not in love with her.

What do you think?
*Was this an embarrasing spectacle that had the rest of the world ridiculing her/Spain?
*Should she be allowed to do what she wants even if it goes against protocol?
*If she loves him, why shouldn't she be able to marry at 85, or do you think it's ridiculous to get married at that age?
*Can true love exist between a woman of 85 and a man of 61?

I am still baffled by what I think.I would love to hear what the rest of the world thinks.

Did They Define You?

2011-10-04T08:54:00.000-07:00

Well Monday saw Spanish children FINALLY returning to school. Yes! they've been off since mid June-can you imagine? I don't have children, but I saw a lot of happy looking parents and exhausted-looking grandparents around yesterday.

As I saw some new charges, in their newly pressed and starched uniforms making their way to school, I started thinking back to that feeling I always got at the beginning of the new school term. I loved school, had no problems like bullying etc, loved buying all my new notebooks and pencils (I still love buying stationary today; I must get out more!)

But looking back, my school reports could have on occassion done me more harm than good. I have kept some snippets from my school reports in my Filofax for years. Some of them make me laugh, and one or two make me really angry.

Here's some of what my teachers said about me:

" If Vanessa spent more time concentrating than she does daydreaming, she could really reach her potential"
This really was an accurate assessment. I'm still known for being "away with the fairies" at some points during the day.

"Vanessa will never make an accountant. Her numerical skills are a lot to be desired".
I am slightly number dyslexic, so this was spot-on . You really wouldn't want me balancing your cheque-book!

"Vanessa will always be a good solid B student, never an A".
This comment could have really defined me. Thank God it spurred me on.

"Vanessa will always be one of lifes "plodders!"
OMG! this comment sent my very competitive (but supportive) Mum into convulsions. I'm sure she took to her bed for about 1 week!

"She has so much potential, but doesn't always channel it in the right way".
So true. Just ask my Hubby

"She has such a kind and sweet-nature, I just wish she would concentrate more".
I really loved this teacher. She was about 80 (or so she seemed to me at the time) and she taught me Literature. I have her to thank for my love of books.

The best one, was a remark made to me by my Careers Advisor, aged 16, when we were selecting our subjects for the exams that would see us get into University or not.

"I don't think Vanessa is really University material. I see her more selling perfume in Selfridges!"
This is the comment that sent my Mum into a fit! If it wasn't for my Mum, I really could have let this comment
define who I became. I did return to see this teacher when I graduated from University, but she was nowhere to be found. Perhaps my Mum got to her first ;-)

So dear friends, what can you remember about your school days?
Were you teachers spot on with their assessment of you?
Did you like or hate school?
Was there one teacher who stood out for you as being your loudest cheerleader?

I would love to hear your school-girl tales ;-)

Black is Back! Did it Ever go Away?

2011-09-27T06:58:00.000-07:00

OK, it seems that all I've been seeing with regards fashion is that "black is back". Well anyone that knows me knows it never left (Hubs says there is more colour in a nuns wardrobe than in mine! Not sure which nuns he's been staking out?)

I'm really not good at doing colour (altho' a little more adventurous in the summer), and can't wait for winter to appear so that I can start wearing black again.

It's a colour I feel safe in. I know it suits me. It always looks classy (well nearly always) and most importantly, I "appear" taller and thinner (everything helps when you get to a certain age) :-)

I hate shopping, so I tend to add items onto a list that I would like each season, and try and stick to it.

Here's my winter "wish list":

I LOVE this leather jacket by Amanda Wakeley

I spend a lot of time on the back of Hubs Vespa, hanging on for dear lifeas we zoom around the
streets of Seville .If you've seen the film Night & Day with Tom Cruise, it was filmed here, and I'm
sure Hubs is channeling his Tom Cruise albeit on his Vespa!
So I think these gorgeous biker boots by Jimmy Choo will more than compensate.
Must have a word with Hubs!

I still have not ventured into skinny jeans yet; just haven't mustered
up the confidence. But I love these straight leg jeans by Australian brand
Neuw (model above is Francoise Straight)

As I spend so much time in black, I "try" to add some colour with my accessories. It's not always successful, but these are on my wish-list.

OMG! I so want this Hobo bag by Ralph Lauren. It's called the
Harbridge Hobo. I love all the elegant, equestrian-inspired accents
(altho' have never been on a horse in my life!)
I think this might have to go on my list for Santa, but I know Santa is
going to make me choose between the bag and the boots.
Which would you choose?

I love this cashmere blend leopard print scarf by Alexander McQueen
This would be perfect to break up all my black. I know Hubs will say
"Does it have to be Alexander McQueen?" And my reply will be..........?

With this kind of casual attire, I keep my jewellery to a minimum.
Here's my "go to" day pieces.

LUXURIA JEWELLERY BOUTIQUE

So what do you think?
What's on your winter "wish-list"?
Are you a lover of all thinks black? Or is black boring, safe and unimaginative?
C'mon all you fashionistas, would love to hear your views.

The Versatile Blogger Award

2011-09-21T07:13:00.000-07:00

Well dear friends, first a HUGE thank you for all the comments made on my previous post. My Business Coach has literally been salivating reading them, with that "told-you-so" glint in her eyes.

The majority of comments did say they would like to see occassional jewellery posts, so that's what I am going to put my mind too ;-)

Thank you all though for the honesty with which you all answered, and for caring enough to help and give me your views.

OK, now also this week I was awarded my first award. Yaaaaay! Never had a blog award before, so this was my own little Emmys party (sans dress!).

I was awarded this by the lovely Ivana over at Style in the City

I haven't known Ivana very long, but we have become good buddies; she has helped me with my technical queries about blogger, we tweet each other, and more than anything she has such a lovely sweet nature.

So I have to tell you 7 things about myself, and then nominate some bloggers to pass this lovely award onto.

So here are my 7 things you may, or may not know about me:

* I am a germ-a-phobe. No really, it's true. I won't even touch the handle of a public building without a Medi-wipe in my hand. And if you want to watch me go into dramatic convulsions, just stick me on the London Underground during rush-hour in Winter when everyone is coughing and spluttering;my absolute worst nightmare

* I have a mind like an annonyingly absorbant sponge, that retains the most useless trivia you can imagine, only to be regurgitated at the most in-opportune, and often hilarious times.(Sometimes I wonder if I have a form of Aspergers!) The thing is I can never remember when or where I read these useless bits of information; it just appears. However everyone wants me on their team when playing Trivia Pursuit though!

*many of my friends (not close friends) in the UK had no idea I was a Criminal Psychologist. My job title could be a real conversation killer especially at social functions. Suddenly no one wants to speak with you for fear you are analysing them or, you have sussed the little fibs they are spouting out! A few of my high-flyer friends would introduce me as "just a secretary". It was great seeing those same faces when I told them the truth upon leaving the industry ;-) Needless to say they weren't close friends ;-)

* I hate "wet" food; I mean food with lots of gravy, liquid etc such as stews, casseroles etc. I just can't eat them. I don't know whether I had a bad childhood experience with gravy when younger ;-) Or maybe it was the revolting school dinners I was forced to endure;I don't know. But if you want to see me leave your dinner party swiftly, just serve me something like Beef Stroganoff or some kind of Goulash.

*I got married on the wonderful island of Maui, and dream of one day owning a little "beach shack" (I'm not greedy!) there.

*I am a trained Cordon Bleu "chef" ("chef" sounds really prententious, but I can't think of another word to use. "Cook" sounds like the word used to describe people who cook in schools or prisons!) One of my favorite holidays was a 2 week cooking course in Tuscany, Italy

* I hate shopping and practically by everything I possibly can on-line. I can now buy fresh produce from my local farm on-line too. So I am really happy now.

I´ve been asked to give this award to up to 15 bloggers I love and I´ve chosen the following 7 fabulous ladies I read. I've tried to choose some "old friends" and some newer followers as a way of them introducing themselves to us, and as a way of supporting some new bloggers (well new for me, perhaps they have been blogging for years ;-)

i) Tabitha @Bourbon and Pearls
ii) Lillian @Lillian Harlow
iii) Amateurian @Amateurian
iv)Simone @Ironing Basket
v)Barbara @Hampton Hostess
vi) Looking Fab in your Forties
vii) A Brit Greek @mybigfatgreekmove.blogspot.com

Just in case, these are the official rules:

-Thank the award-giver and link back to them in your post.
-Tell your readers 7 things about yourself.
-Give this award to up to 15 recently discovered bloggers.
-Contact those bloggers and tell them the exciting news!

Can't wait to read all your responses!

You've Lost Your Way!

2011-09-17T09:27:00.000-07:00

This is what my Business Coach said to me this week, as she sighed whilst looking at my blog. You see my blog was supposed to be an extension of my business, with posts all about jewellery, my pieces etc. It was supposed to be a marketing vehicle.

Instead my blog has become a portal for my spontaneous ramblings; it's become a "love fest" towards all the wonderful friends I've made (which has proved far more valuable to me). Let me tell you, Coach was not impressed.

"It has no direction", she sighed as we had this conversation this week.
"But this is who I AM" I tried to explain to her.
"Even your pictures are sometimes so random", she said clearly exasperated.

Autumn"randomness" from Pinterest (Barbara Lowe)

I want my blog to be an extension of me, my thoughts, my opinions, my mad ramblings etc. I don't want to use my blog as sales pitch. I hate having products rammed down my throat, so I won't do it to my loyal followers either. Apart from my Giveaways or when a new designer comes on board, I don't blog about my business; it's how I like it.I prefer my followers get a feel for who I am; what I sell is secondary.Also my blog is an escape from my business (altho' I didn't say this to Coach ;-)

Coach was not impressed. In fact she was positively peeved.

More Autumn "randomness"-Pinterest (PaulaHamilton)

So I decided to meet her half way and ask my lovely readers what you think.

* Should I do more posts related to jewellery (I'm really not sure I would have enough to say to do a post at least once a week!)

* Do you find my blog a complete mish-mash with no direction?

* What would you like to see more or less of?

* What posts don't you like?

I guess I should have put this in a survey, but I'm hoping you will feel free to be as brutal as you wish (honestly, all comments good or bad are welcome). Anonymous comments are also welcome ;-)

Thank you so much lovelies xx

Where Were You?

2011-09-11T10:17:00.000-07:00

Today as I watched the 9-11 Memorial on CNN, it still felt so raw. It felt like it was yesterday as I could remember exactly what I was doing. I can't believe 10 years have passed already.

It will be another one of those days that will be etched on our memories for ever, for different reasons of course; like the death of Elvis (yes I am old enough to remember!) or the death of Princess Diana (I lived spitting distance from Kensington Palace and I will never forget the haunting silence around the palace on that Sunday morning when the news came through that she had died).

As I watched the 9-11 Memorial, it reminded me of one of my favorite songs/videos, that make me cry every time I listen to it.

Please take a moment to watch it (there are no images of 9-11), and ask yourself, have we made progress? Have things changed?

What were you doing on that fateful day?

I had just moved to Spain, was unpacking some boxes and decided to put on the TV.It was about 2.30pm. Hubs walked past as I put on the TV just as the unspeakable was happening, and said "Oh an action film. Do you mind if I watch it?" Eight hours later we were still watching.

What about you? Please share if it's not too painful.

I Think I'm Sure!

2011-09-05T07:33:00.000-07:00

OK, anyone reading my previous post knows I made some life-changing decisions this summer, which I promised to share with you in my first post for September.

What is it I hear you asking?

Well Hubs and I have decided to leave the country that has been our adopted home for the last 10 years! Bearing in mind we had only come for 1 year in the first instance, I think we can rest assure that no-one can accuse us of not having "staying power".

So why are we leaving?
There are a multitude of reasons, but principally we both have lone, elderley parents. When we left, we never envisaged still being in Spain when old-age struck both our parents. Hubs is an only child, and altho' I have a sister who lives 10 minutes away from my Dad, I might as well be an only child.

This summer saw lots of unexpected ailments, emergency calls for the ambulance and hospital stays, that made us realise it was more stressful being in Spain and directing everything from here, than being in the UK.Altho' Spain is only about 3 hours from the UK, it is still difficult to fly out every time they have a problem.

Altho' we won't actully be making moves until Spring (due to work commitments we would like to honour) I made a list of all the silly things I miss about the UK (leaving aside the obvious of family and friends).Here are some of them.

I miss:

* having some of the best hairdressers in the world at my fingertips,and knowing the explanation of what I desire won't get "lost in translation".

*I miss being able to go to the best concerts and theatre productions at a moments notice. I haven't been to a pop concert in the 10 years I've lived here, as Spain is not usually on the concert route for many of the big stars.

*I miss the seasons. Yes waking up to blue skies is wonderful, but too much of a good thing...........

* I miss cosy nights in. It's impossible to do "cosy" in 40ºC heat and the air-conditioning blasting

* I miss being able to spend a Saturday afternoon wandering around some of my fav bookshops in London.The Spanish are not big readers. When I first arrived in Seville in 2001, there was only 1 bookshop in the whole of the city, and that was religious bookshop frequented principally by nuns and friars-really, I'm not joking! During this time Amazon became my best friend.

* I miss living in a city that doesn't judge you by the clothes you wear,the car you drive or the religion you practise. Seville/Spain is an extremely close-minded, classist and traditional country/city.Sometimes the "village mentality" can take it's toll

*I miss the build up to Christmas. There is nothing really like it in Spain, as Easter is the bigger celebration of the two.

* I miss having a pile of Sunday papers to read at my leisure over hot croissants. All my newspaper reading has been done on-line since moving here, as by the time international press reaches my city, it's already out of date. I really do miss holding, rustling, folding, highlighting and tearing bits out of my weekend papers.

*I miss not always being the "foreigner".

So these are just some of the points I put on my list and refer to every time I get a wobbly moment. I am sure I will change my mind a thousand times before the time arrives. But sharing my decision with my blogger friends (only) means I now feel committed to seeing this new chapter of our lives through.And I'm sure I will be blogging about many more wobbly moments, and asking all my wonderful friends for some advice.

So dear friends, what would you miss most about your city/country if you emigrated?
Would love to hear your thoughts as always.

Hanging On By My Fingernails

2011-08-31T03:13:00.001-07:00

Today is the 31 August,and for many it marks the end of summer. Many of my fellow bloggers are already reviewing the Autumn fashions and preparing for the the next season

Most Spanish return to work tomorrow. There are a lot of sad looking faces around I can assure you.

It's still very hot here (my air-conditioning is blasting in the background as I type this post) so it's still really difficult for me to think about Autumn. So I am hanging on to the last vestiges of summer by my fingernails

For my final summer post I would like to ask:

* What did summer 2011 mean for you?
* What will you remember most (good or bad) about this summer?
For me, I used this summer to make "another" life-changing decision. I'm really excited but also terrified (more about this decision in my first post in September).
What about you?

Where's Your Bolt-hole?

2011-08-28T11:52:00.001-07:00

When I had to cancel my summer hols to the UK this month (due to anarchy over there) I had to come up with a quick solution.

This is the place Hubs and I always run too when we need a quick fix - La Residencia in Mallorca - www.hotel-laresidencia.com

Within minutes we feel completely chilled and miles away from the madding crowds, as you are completely surrounded by mountains .

(It's also the place Princess Diana often used as her bolt-hole when she need to escape The Establishment!)

I lived in Mallorca for some time, and this place became my weekly treat; sometimes it was just to have a cool drink and watch the sunset, or to have my Saturday morning tennis lessons (which were always a disaster as my mind was always on what I would do after in the hotel ;-). Now it's no longer on my door-step I really appreciate it more. When I lived in Mallorca it was owned by Sir Richard Branson, but now owned by Orient Express Hotels.Thankfully, it's maintained all it's charm.

What's your favorite bolt-hole? It can be on your door-step, or some far and distant land. Where ever it is I would love to add it to my ever-growing list of "places-to-see-before-I-die!"

The Best Summer Shoes or Not?

2011-08-24T09:44:00.000-07:00

I know many of you fashionistas who follow this blog are going to gasp in horror,choke on your tea or just keel over in disgust when I tell you that my favorite summer shoe used to be (notice the past tense here) my boat shoes.

Image courtesy of Joanna Goddard

When I first came to Spain, I lived in my boat shoes for running errands, jumping on Hubby's Vespa to zoom around the city etc. But I always noticed the look of disdain from other Spanish women!

One day whilst shopping with my Spanish friend Carlotta (translation= Charlotte), who doesn't think twice about running around Carrefour (translation= French hyper-market now found all over Spain) in her Manolos, she looked at my feet decked in boat shoes and this was our conversation:

Carlotta: WHHYYY Van?
Me: Why what?
Carlotta: Why do you wear those 'ORRIBLE shoes?
Me: Don't you like them?
Carlotta: Did you come to the supermarket by boat?
Me: No
Carlotta: Do you own a boat?
Me: No. In fact I am a really bad sailor
Carlotta: Then why are you wearing boat shoes? It's like wearing your bikini to go shopping. Boat shoes should only be seen on a boat or by the beach!

And hence my love affair with my boat shoes was brought to an abrupt end. It wasn't until we had this conversation that I started looking at every woman's feet during the summer, and she was right; Spanish women never wear boat shoes away from the coast. Mediterranean men on the other hand wear them all the time in the city, and even in formal corporate environments during the summer. For men, they are regarded as "dapper" and "smart". But they are a real NO NO for women.

Do you agree with my friend Carlotta?

Friends with Benefits

2011-08-18T03:02:00.000-07:00

Antonio Banderas and Melanie Griffiths are media sweethearts here in Spain. The media LOVE them. Why? Because they are always polite and gracious to the press and Antonio has never forgotten his Spanish roots. Just last weekend a photographer was following them whilst they were riding their bikes in Malaga. When he caught up with them, he was given a big hug by both and invited into the nearest bar for a coffee.

The Spanish love Melanie because she has embraced Spanish culture. Like me her language skills have a lot to be desired, but she tries, and the Spanish love a "trier".

Today Antonio gave an interview where he was explaining how whenever new Spanish actors come to Hollywood, him and Melanie open their homes to them, invite them to stay at their place(because he remembered how frightened he felt when he landed in LA alone). He cooks a huge paella, invites all his industry contacts, and does whatever he can to help aspiring actors in Hollywood.

In this interview he was speaking in particular about two specific actors who stayed with him (on separate ocassions) for months! When they were not staying in his home, they were on the phone daily asking Antonio to sort contacts out for them etc. He explained how now that "they" have made it big, when he sees them around they just turn the other way. They don't even acknowledge him or Melanie. One of the aforementioned individuals stayed in his home for over a year! Antonio was by no means complaining or sounding bitter. What he was saying was how sad that kind of behaviour was, because as fast as you can make it in Hollywood, it can chew you up and spit you out.

Who do you think he was talking about?

It is really sad when "friends" only use you for what they can obtain. Despite my professional background I am not very good at sussing out people close to me, who are like this; on the other hand my husband is really savvy.

What about you? Do you think there is a place for friends with benefits? Are you good at sussing out people like this quickly? How do you deal with "friends" like that before you kick them to the curb ;-)

Would be interested to hear your thoughts.

p.s you might also be interested in this post "Don't Forget Your Roots".

I'm Sure You Don't Agree (or maybe you do!)

2011-08-15T08:37:00.001-07:00

I've always loved Christie Brinkley.

London-Summer 2011

London-Summer 2011

I was so excited to be seeing her in the London showing of Chicago when I returned to the UK for my hols (read previous post as to why it didn't happen).Her body and beauty is quite mystifying. Maybe she has had plastic surgery (I really can't tell), but if she has she must have one of the best surgeons in the world!

Chicago-London 2011

However, I read a magazine interview of hers this weekend, and was surprised to see her say,
"I try to read my news in the paper because online can lead you into the blogosphere, which can be one of the ugliest places in the world".

She's obviously talking about some of the hurtful things she read when she went through her last, very acrimonious divorce. But I am sure if you are reading this post you far from believe that the blogsophere is one of the ugliest places.

I would love to hear from you about:

*why you started blogging
*how (if at all) blogging has changed you in any small way
*what has surprised you most about blogging
* any observations you have about blogging

Please feel free to leave a link to your own blog with your comment, as a way of spreading the "blog love".

p.s If this is the first time commenting on this blog,or you are not a regular follower, links without constructive comments will be deleted. "Great post" followed by your link doesn't really cut it;-)
(Please see our comments policy in the Sidebar).

A Weekend of Improvisation.

2011-08-12T08:46:00.000-07:00

This week was a very sad and disappointing week for me. The riots in the UK were startling to say the least. I feet so sad and embarrassed to say I am British. Here in Spain, as a country, they look up to anything that represents the UK. And I've always felt really patriotic . However after recent events I just wanted to hide under the biggest stone as videos of the anarchy were zoomed at lightening speed all over the world.

I'm tired of hearing people saying the riots were caused by dis-enfranchised youths. It wasn't! Teachers, a millionaires daughter, a postman, a care worker were amongst those involved. That just makes things more frightening and despairing for me.

I was also due to fly to the UK for my summer break, and with the situation at it's worse on the day I was due to fly, I decided to cancel everything.

I have no right to complain just because my holiday was cancelled, especially when I think of the people who lost homes, businesses and family in the fires started during the anarchy.

So instead of being with family and friends as was planned for this weekend, it's a weekend of improvisation.Life is all about adapting, so I'm just grateful I can still have a wonderful weekend without getting on a plane.

This is how I plan to spend some days; relaxing and reflecting.

What about you? What plans do you have?

Risky Business

2011-08-09T02:29:00.001-07:00

There are many times in our life when taking a risk is just what we need to shake things up a bit.It helps move us out of our comfort zone without destroying our life. Yes, it often leaves us asking the question, "have I done the right thing?". But usually it's a question that we know the answer too.

If your risks are based on logic and not emotion, you can "usually" rest in the knowledge that it was a calculated risk. I say "usually" because I feel that you need emotion to move you forward when fear starts to grip you in the middle of the night as it usually does.

Here are some of my risks and things I learnt along the way:

Leaving family and friends in the UK to move to Mallorca/Spain

Saying goodbye to family, friends, our homes and two very welcome corporate salaries

There are times it feels like you are never going to reach your destination

Believing in your dream is paramount so that when the going gets tough and friends and family put doubts in your head (which they will), your beliefs in your vision will see you through.

The path isn't always sunshine and flowers, but having faith in your dream, makes the journey much easier.

Starting my jewellery business during the recession was a big risk. Sometimes starting something new when others can't see the opportune moment can pay off, but you have to be really passionate about what you want to do because you will be picking yourself up, and dusting yourself down many, many times.

What risks have you taken that paid off? Would love to hear.

And the Winner Of Luxuria's Giveaway is............................

2011-08-08T01:01:00.001-07:00

OK Lovelies, I would first like to thank EVERYONE who participated in our Giveaway. So many of you joined in on Facebook and Twitter also which was much appreciated.

However, we didn't reach our target :-(

But as August really is a bad month for doing Giveaways, I've decided to honor the people that did participate and call the draw anyway.

And the winner is : IVANA from styleinthecityen.blogspot.com

Ivana please contact me so I can make arrangements to send you your prize.

Again a HUGE thank you to everyone who participated. And if you didn't win, don't worry there will be another Giveaway in Autumn.

Happy Monday everyone!

We're a Little Late for the Party!

2011-08-03T09:21:00.000-07:00

I know for my American friends and family, summer holidays will be starting to wind down shortly. But here in the Med, the 1st August officially marked the start of the holiday season. Most big cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Seville (where I am) are now like ghost-towns.

When you bid clients and friends farewell in July, they always say "see you next year". For Spanish, the "new year" begins in September;a time when new objectives/goals are set, new diets started etc.

So what does summer mean for this expat?
Heading to the most secluded beach we can find (Hubs and I have found some real gems since living here), away from the madding crowd.

It's time for some real rest and recuperation; catching up on my reading list, setting objectives for Autumn and Winter, which in turn produces lists! And generally trying to just enjoy the silence, broken only by the breaking waves

Summer means more fruit and liquid! Does it matter if the liquid is alcohol? I make a lethal sangria that usually puts everyone into an after-lunch coma!

Summer means casual attire. I don't actually own a pair of flip-flops, but you get the idea.Flip-flops are really popular in the US, but not so much in Europe.What's your "must-own" item for summer?

Summer certainly means not participating in anything that takes too much brain power or physical strength. It really is my time to be lazy, altho' I'm not great at being able to switch-off, and it usually takes me a long time.

So what does/did this summer mean for you? Any new objectives? Perhaps you don't even like summer and prefer the cosiness of Winter. I must admit, by the time September arrives, I really have had enough of the heat, dried hair that is starting to resemble crispy seaweed! I start to look forward to seeing rain, watching an electric thunderstorm from the warmth of my home, and feeling the fresh wind against my face. What about you? Are you a beach babe or more of a little tortoise that is just waiting to go into hibernation?

p.s if you are new to this blog, don't forget to enter our Blog Giveaway (2 posts below which ends on Sunday!)

To Follow or Unfollow, That is The Question

2011-07-29T04:04:00.000-07:00

OK Lovelies

As I reached my first year blogging, I started think about the bloggers I have unfollowed,or refused to follow in that time.
I'm not sure if I have been fair, but here's my reasoning. Tell me what you think?

i)You can't be bothered to acknowledge your commenters!
OK, this is the "biggie" for me. I used to follow a very popular blog (I won't mention the name as many of you still follow her). I used to comment religiously because her posts were really good. But "hostess" NEVER, EVER acknowledged anyone's comments. C'mooooooon!! In this day and age when everyone is so "time-starved" surely to just thank the people who have taken the time to respond is not asking too much. Isn't it like asking people to your party, and then ignoring everyone?

Her number of commenters aren't that big, so even if "hostess" doesn't want to respond to each one, just a general thank you at the end of each post isn't too much to ask. A couple of times I e:mailed "hostess" about a particular post, and again she never responded. However, when she wanted me to advertise on her site, I received incessant e:mails all beautifully and sweetly written!! Not the kind of person I would want contact with in the real world. Thankfully with cyber-acquaintances they can be deleted too easily with just a press of a button, which is why I think more effort is needed to nurture these friendships.If you can't be bothered, neither can I?

ii) Backlink Baddies:
You only leave bland responses on a post simply so you can leave a backlink back to your post. Isn't that like gate-crashing someone's party and handing out your calling/business card? (sorry, we are back at the party again!) Usually I spot the same bland comment on a number of posts, by the same person, and it's very clear you haven't even read the post!

iii)I'm scared of you:
Yes, on your blog posts, you ignite the grenade, and then stand back and watch your commenters pull each others hair out. Not the kind of tribe I wish to belong too

iv) Ouch!:
You leave nasty comments on people's blogs. I'm all for discussion and different opinions (and love when someone plays devils advocate), but how you present your opinion will impact on whether I follow or press delete! Thankfully, I never encountered this. As an ex-Criminal Psychologist I would like to think I am a "goodish" judge of character ;-)

v)Originality passed you by:
I'm talking about the bloggers who only post image after image from the glossy magazines. C'mon! If I wanted to see all the images from Vogue, I would have bought it. Of course if it fits in with your post, that's a different issue. But if it's just the images with a "wow" thrown in here and there, you will have lost me.

So there you have it. Am I being to harsh? I just think we are all so pushed for time, that if I am going to spend precious minutes reading your blog, there has to be a good reason.

This means that all the followers I do follow, I seriously LOVE! You have all earned your place on my blogroll, and I appreciate each and every one of you for:
*the smiles you bring into my day
*the recommendations you have given me whether it be for a book, a film, a recipe....whatever
*belly laughs first thing in the morning (you know who you are)
*nuggets you planted in my mind, that really made me think
*escapism with your gorgeous images, art, story-telling (nothing better than breaking up the monotony of the day), and most important of all
*friendships without borders
THANK YOU ALL SO MUCH

Are there anymore "nasties" that should be added to the "hit-list"? Am I being too harsh? Would love to hear your thoughts.

p.s don't forget to enter our Giveaway in the previous blog post!

Birthday Blog GIveaway!

2011-07-27T05:39:00.000-07:00

OK friends, in honour of this blogs 1st birthday this is our giveaway:

I have selected the first bracelet (in black) as I figured everyone likes black!This cuff is really, really popular in our boutique, and looks good in summer or winter.

So here are the rules for entering the giveaway (you have to work a little for this one my friends):

i)Become a Blog follower and leave a comment.

ii)Follow us on Twitter (link on the right side bar) and leave a comment

iii) Follow us on Facebook (link on the right sidebar) and leave a comment.

iv) Grab our blog button for your blog (on the right side bar) and leave a comment.

(You don't have to do all 4, you can do whichever one you feel compelled to do).

OK, here's the caveat. Our blog followers must increase by at least 50 (from 106 to 156) OR our Twitter followers must increase from 1,197 to at least 1,300. Only if we hit ONE of these numbers will the draw be made on Sunday 7 August at midnight (CET). So this is what I mean when I say you have to work for this giveaway; work persuading your friends to follow our blog or follow us on Twitter or Facebook. Is that fair?

Please may I ask entrants to play fair. Don't just become a follower until the draw and then opt out; we are watching you ;-)

Good luck my lovelies. May the best girl win!

p.s competition is open worldwide!
p.p.s a "thank you" post to all my wonderful followers/blog friends will follow shortly.

"I Can't Get Through the Day Without..............."

2011-07-24T03:42:00.000-07:00

What's the daily essential that keeps you the right side of sane?

I always need to take some time for myself- a bit of quiet and calm to reflect (or even read a few pages of my book). A few moments of serenity, where the days stresses can just evaporate, help me through anything. It's also the time I am most inspired/creative.

Fresh flowers on my desk.

What's your daily essential? (It can be anything from needing to check your Twitter account, to something you just have to eat or drink!)

Cocoa Power

2011-07-19T08:13:00.000-07:00

Well as this blog is supposed to be about all things decadent (altho’ I do digress more often than not!), I thought this post would be on something most of us would agree is decadent............CHOCOLATE! But we are talking about high quality chocolate here, not the chemically-enhanced rubbish most of us snatch on the run.

It’s the Swiss, Belgians and French who spring to mind when considering the world’s great chocolate makers. But it is in fact the Spanish who should be given a congratulatory slap on the back for bringing cacao beans back from the New World in the 16th century.

Chocolate soon became very fashionable in Spanish high society and during the 17th Century, the Spanish court was renowned throughout Europe for its expertise in making hot chocolate sipped from dainty chocolate cups with saucers.

Today Spanish eat a huge amount of chocolate especially in Cataluña where they eat double the quantity to the rest of Spain. This could be because of their close proximity to France, and because of the port were it was previously brought into the country.

Petritxol is Barcelona's "chocolate street". The cafes which specialise in hot chocolate are always packed with customers on a Sunday afternoon.

Typical Sunday breakfast in our house is churros and chocolate.

These are like hot doughnuts sprinkled with sugar; as if these aren't lethal enough you then proceed to dip into thick hot chocolate!! Yes, a heart attack just waiting to happen. But you will die happy!

Where Hubby and I go to partake in this Sunday sin!

Inside the "den of iniquity".

Chocolate shoes! Does it get any better than this?

So friends, what's your poison? Is it chocolate, or is it something else equally as decadent?

p.s please take a look at the blog Hampton Hostess, and see the stunning photos of my adopted city where she holidayed recently.

No need to go Native!!

2011-07-13T11:17:00.000-07:00

OK, so you don’t have to be a Native American to be able to wear one of this summers on-trend gems;turquoise.

There are really no limits to the functionality and utility of turquoise pieces, although we all can't walk around looking like Cher (as much as I would love too!).

For me turquoise epitomises everything that is summer; Mediterranean seas, crystal clear waters off the Greek islands, hot, sultry days in Ibiza.........I could go on.

For this reason turquoise is my “go-to” gem in Summer, but I never wear it during the winter months (altho’ I do have customers that do wear it all year round and they always look fab!)

The great thing about turquoise is that it goes with almost any color wonderfully, especially since there are quite a few different colors of natural turquoise.
Turquoise can come in all shades of green and blue, as well as yellow and brown. There are also other gemstones that are called “White Turquoise” which obviously would go with any outfit as they are white and black. The most common color of course is the traditional turquoise blue or aqua “Sky Blue” colored turquoise. This color is so beautiful and is the most highly desired.

Turquoise jewellery looks great with jeans and a t-shirt, but this summer many celebs have been seen using turquoise at evening events.

There is no one best way to wear turquoise pieces, but if you don’t want to look like a Navajo Indian, then I suggest you select carefully the piece you want to wear, and keep it to a minimum.

Crete pendant: This is definitely a "statement" piece composed of a vibrant turquoise drop framed by a hand-crocheted gold border http://bit.ly/h0w9nY

I know many would disagree with me and say, mixing the colors up makes one look more artistic and ethnic (and this is true if you are about to don your wellies and head off to Coacharella or Glastonbury, then I say "Go girl!"). But if you are over 40, I would say “don’t go there”. You will end up looking like someone’s spinster Aunt who still thinks she is 25 when in reality is 65 (you know the Aunt who always embarrasses you when she starts dancing at family weddings!).

Others also say that by not wearing matching pieces one appears more travelled and worldly. I ,on the other hand feel that one good piece makes the wearer look more sophisticated. Whichever look you choose, you will certainly be bang on trend this summer with anything turquoise .

Kensie Earrings-bright blue stunners composed of faceted turquoise stones interwoven with gold wire to create a mosaic effecthttp://bit.ly/hW6oHA Noelle Necklace: Stunning pendant composed of a delicate strand of grey freshwater pearls leading to a stunning drop framed in gold crotchet http://bit.ly/ffaZ2V

All featured pieces are from our boutique and come with a 20% discount until the end of July.

Weekend Hugs!

2011-07-09T11:40:00.000-07:00

I don't usually post only images. But I couldn't resist this one!

So sending all my wonderful blog friends warm, weekend hugs from Spain. You ALL mean so much to me as I approach 1 year of blogging; I can't even begin to tell you how much joy your blogs,comments and friendship have brought me.

Hugs to you all!

(A Giveaway to celebrate our 1st birthday will be announced shortly).

My Baby has Grown Up!

2011-07-07T09:02:00.000-07:00

Well I can't believe that I have been blogging for "nearly" 1 year (about 10 months) and I never thought I would get so wrapped up in the blogging world, not to mention some of the wonderful friends I have made (but that's for another post).

When I started blogging, my blog was just seen as an extension of my boutique; it was functional and served a purpose . But then something strange started to happen. I started experiencing "blog envy!" Yes I believe it now is a medical condition (at least in my house) and strange things started to happen.
I would waste hours just browsing some of these gorgeous blogs, wishing my baby had been born more attractive ( "she" really was ugly, there was no getting away from it!). I was starting to feel like the "poor relation" within my blogging group. I didn't even have a "button" to share when some of my blogging friends asked for it; you hear the violins playing in the background?

But I kept telling myself that content was more important. But subconsciously I was no longer buying into that little chestnut.

So I conducted a small survey amongst my LinkedIn contacts asking them for their opinions. (I couldn't conduct the survey amongst my blogging friends, as they were the source of the "little green monster" that was constantly perched on my shoulder).

Most of the men from my LinkedIn contact group thought the blog was fine as it was; functional, simple, got the job done. However, the women were definitely coming from a different place. And as one contact/friend said "Van, you are in the business of glamour, and your blog doesn't depict this!" That was it. The die had been cast. It was time for some surgery.

Enter, Danielle Moss my fairy Blog-mother. I'm not sure how I found out about Danielle, I only had a scribbled note in my business journal that said "Contact her!"

And so our relationship began. She has the patience of a saint and listened patiently when I sent her what now seem like ludicrous ideas. She never laughed (well not out-right), but gently guided me to what you are looking at now. Thank God she never listened to any of my suggestions! I only knew I wanted something classy and simple, with not too many colours. Danielle waved her wand, and here is the finished piece.

I am SO happy now. I feel I can compete with the "big glam-guns" (don't be modest, you know who you are ;-)

I feel this is more a representation of who I am and what my boutique represents, (more than the Blogger template did!) and more importantly I have a gorgeously cute button. Please grab my button if you want to make a proud mummy cry.

Danielle, still has some tweaking to do, but I couldn't wait to unveil the new look.

I would love your opinions and to hear what you think . One friend asked me what's the "divas" name. She looks like a Lola to me. What do you think?

Short Shrift!

2011-07-02T03:43:00.000-07:00

It is July in Spain and savagely hot where I am, but etiquette rules of dressing still seem to occur even in this heat, and never melt away. One of them is wearing shorts/beach attire on the streets.

Women after a certain age i.e 30, never wear shorts on the streets. Spanish women still consider shorts to go shopping or run errands as truly unsightly, and they will not even run to the corner shop in a pair of shorts; even less so in the cities such as Madrid and Barcelona. Shorts away from the beach scream “foreigner” to Spanish women.

Typical attire for running errands in the summer

Unfortunately, it is the expat crowd that opt for shorts or even less clothing whilst away from the coast.
I get truly embarrassed when I see expats walking in supermarkets, or eating in restaurants (albeit by the coast) in bikini tops, men without tops etc. Truly disgusting!!! Why do Northern Europeans insist on doing this? Apart from being damn unsightly, it is so unhygienic. Northern Europeans/expats would never dream of walking around a supermarket in just their bikini and sarong at home, so why do it in Spain? When I have asked expat friends why they insist on doing it, the stock response is “because it’s hot!” Spanish women also feel the heat especially in the cities, but they would still never walk around like this.

Shopping in Madrid. I just love her smile!

In fact when I am at the beach, I can spot which women in a restaurant are Spanish and which are from Northern Europe (in particular the UK and Germany). Spanish women will always be covered in a pretty loose dress to have lunch. They never wear flip-flops into a restaurant (only on the sand),so they will have changed their shoes, taken off their sun hats/visors etc, and spruced up their hair before even entering a restaurant.
And despite the heat they always look remarkably cool and unflusterd.

Princess Letizia strolling in Mallorca during the summer, and not a pair of shorts in sight!

What do you think about wearing shorts or beach attire away from the coast, or in establishments near the coast i.e restaurants, banks, supermarkets etc. Am I getting on my high horse for nothing?

Would love to hear your views.

Swinging from the Chandeliers!!!

2011-06-25T03:53:00.000-07:00

No! No! No! you naughty minxes. This post is not what you think it's about. It's about one of this summers jewellery trends; chandelier earrings.

A couple of customers and blog followers requested some posts on summer jewellery trends. As I suffer writers block more than I experience creative inspiration, I was so grateful for their suggestions.

OK, so this post we will look at chandelier earrings.

Elizabeth Hurley, gorgeous as always, with some mega-chandeliers at the Ark charity event in London, June 2011

OK, so do we all have to look like Elizabeth Hurley to carry of the chandelier? No, we most certainly don't, but not every chandelier style is right for every woman or every outfit. Choose the wrong style and you can end up looking like Dame Edna Everage on a bad day!!!

So here are my tips:

1. Never wear a chandelier earring longer than your neck. If it's touching the tops of your shoulders when you're standing, it's going to disappear down the ravine of your cleavage when you sit down; never to be seen again! Instead choose a style that leaves at least 1 inch between the bottom of the earring and the top of your shoulders.

2. If your face is broad or round, or if you have even a slight double chin avoid chandelier earrings with a wide bottom. Instead, opt for a longer, slimmer silhouette that elongates the face and trims your profile.
Celeste Earrings http://bit.ly/eSbRLw

Square Waterfall Earrings http://bit.ly/fFsoCt

If your face is very long and thin, give it more balance with a chandelier that offers more depth and width at the bottom to slenderize your face.
Channel your Spanish diva with these - http://bit.ly/iefHbq

3. You can wear a chandelier during the daytime for a bohemian casual chic look. But do choose a shorter length.
Gorgeous for day-time against a back-drop of white clothing-http://bit.ly/kX2g4x

Bohemian chic in brass - http://bit.ly/hdFzcR

4. If your hair is shoulder length or longer, opt for a longer earring to keep the look vertical. An earring that is too short breaks the line and can make your face appear fuller. If you don't want to wear a long chandelier earring than opt for a short drop earring with single stone or bead.

My "Martini" earrings for "anytime, any place anywhere!" http://bit.ly/jCwjRb

6. Never, ever, ever wear a large or showy necklace with chandelier earrings. Even a strand of pearls can be "over-the-top" if your chandeliers are significant, and you will end up looking like a walking Christmas tree, and we don't want that do we?

Two beauties "sans" necklace

So there you have a it- a brief lesson on how to wear chandeliers this summer without looking like the Las Vegas Strip, or Blackpool Illuminations (if you are from the UK!).

All LUXURIA products featured have a 20% discount for 1 week only! Offer ends Sunday 3 July

Tutu Gorgeous for Words

2011-06-20T06:56:00.000-07:00

When I owned my first pair of ballet pumps ("ballerinas" in Spanish) I always assumed they came from France. Perhaps because about 25 years ago the only place to buy them in the UK was from a shop called 'French Sole'; hence my ignorance was born.
YSL's offerings for 2011

However since living in Spain, I now realise that this is a shoe that originated in Spain as far back as 1918 and has been a fashion staple for Spanish women ever since.

In 1918 they were first hand-made in Menorca and had no left or right foot; they were completely interchangeable.

Perhaps one of the reasons for their intense popularity in Spain (long before the likes of Kate Moss and Claudia Scheiffer were seen in theirs) was that in most towns in Spain, huge parts of the town still consist of cobbled stones, which wreak absolute havoc on heels. So unless you are going everywhere by car or taxi, ballerinas are the best way to hurl yourself across town during the day, without becoming wedged between two cobbles and being thrown 4 foot into the air with your knickers on display for the whole of the financial district in Madrid to see! (Yes, it happened to me!!!) So now you can understand why these have been my faithful companion ever since that fateful day over 10 years ago.

Jamie Mascaro's family started making hand-made ballerinas in the early days and since then have taken the world by storm, recently opening his flagship store in London Mayfair. He also recently just opened a store in Warsaw's prime shopping district as the Polish capital enters a new era of glamour.
Some of his new designs for Summer 2011-I just LOVE these!!

Unfortunately there are also many cheap copies being made that has taken the edge of this glamorous shoe. To remain as chic as they were intended, they still only look best in the softest leather possible for shoes and with the least amount of flourishes (for me at least).

As an aside: it shows how comfy and popular ballerinas are, they are also worn as part of the traditional matadors outfit (but always in black).
Discussing the best place in town for ballerinas

Will these form part of your summer wardrobe this year? Do you prefer plain and chic or colourful and fun? Or perhaps you can't stand them! Would love to hear your views.

Don't Forget Your Roots!

2011-06-14T03:48:00.000-07:00

Since living in Spain I have been a huge fan of Penelope Cruz and Javier Bardem.

I “loved” them (notice the past tense being used?). But I could never understand why no-one I spoke to in Spain had a good word to say about either of them. In fact the majority of people hate the two of them with a passion (and as you can imagine, the Spanish are very passionate people, so much so my "research" about these two had to take place in dark secret corners, in very hushed tones).
But is it a case of sour grapes? But how could it be as the Spanish LOVE Antonio Banderas and Melanie Griffiths? This is what was baffling.

Watching the Easter processions from a balcony in Malaga

So in the interest of getting to the bottom of this, I decided to “interview” (I use the term loosely) everyone I could; ranging from age 14 years to aged 82 years! I spoke to all friends, clients, customers, waiters at my favorite bar.......you name it, I had a quick word in anyone’s “shell-like” (ears, for my US friends) and asked them “What the hell is the problem?

What astounded me was that the responses I got, irrespective of who I spoke to, what part of Spain they were from, what age-group they fell into, what political party they supported, what social class they were from.........they all said the same thing.

Here are the reasons they gave:

*Javier Bardem and his mother (who seems constantly stapled to his side at all events) have always been policital activists here in Spain. In fact they were regarded as EXTREME Communists! Javier Bardem on numerous occasions in the past, at rallies in Spain, has spoken about his “hatred” for capitalism and ALL things American.

In fact he openly said during this period of his activism that if he ever won an Oscar, he wouldn’t even go to the US to collect it!

Hmmmmmm-interesting?!

*The Spanish are really quite angry that neither of them give interviews in Spain. In fact Penelope has a reputation of being quite rude to journalists who want to ask her questions. Her stock answer is “it’s my private life!” And yet, both of them are on every talk show in the US talking about that very thing-their private life.

*Any time you see a photo of either of them in Spain they look so damn miserable. Why?

*And of course the final insult for the Spanish was when they elected to have their baby in the US.

Unlike Antonio Banderas who the Spanish love,this clearly isn’t a case of sour grapes. It’s deeper than that. And having conducted my” interviews” I too feel my support for them waning at a very high speed. I don’t have a problem with people re-inventing themselves, but re-writing history? Yes I have a problem with that.

Just as a closing aside. Most people now know that Penelope Cruz’s brother is now the “arm-candy” of Eva Longoria. He is always written about as “the famous Spanish musician brother of Penelope Cruz”. Let me just tell you, no one here has heard of him (never mind heard anything this famous musician has performed). Everyone in Spain knows she had a younger brother, but that was the extent of if. Famous musician??!!! When I show my friends magazines from the US or the UK they are seething. Why? Perhaps this is just another “social climber” in the family? Who knows.

Is it OK to re-invent yourself and move on from your past? Does wisdom come with age, therefore what was said 10 years ago shouldn’t influence people now? Should what we said when we were younger come back and haunt us now? Is being “politically astute” more important these days than being sincere, or have they sold their souls, and sold out on their roots? How far should one go to "re-invent" themselves?

Would love to hear your views?

French Chic versus Inspirational Italians!

2011-06-09T06:39:00.001-07:00

OK friends,since being on the blogosphere (which has only been for less than 1 year) I am “intrigued” perhaps at times a little “astounded” by the number of blogs and books about emulating the French style of dressing (OK, before you go off the deep end, let me explain).

I love reading and following these blogs, but on the other hand I just don’t “get it”. Why? I am European (I am from the UK) and have lived in both France and Italy for short periods of time, and now live in Spain,therefore I should “get it”. But for me, I have to say when it comes to dressing and style, the Italians win hands down.

If you have read any of the books about dressing in the French way (and there are many), I have personally found them very formulaic and predictable. Nearly always the formula for “French chic” includes at least one of the following items:
*Chanel bag
*navy blazer
*Hermés scarf
*flat pumps or loafers
*Beige trench-coat

All very nice but predictable.

However, if you go and sit in any piazza in Rome or Milan, what you will see is a cacophony of style and glamour, but none of it predictable. Gorgeous cut clothes, killer heels, designer sunglasses, lustrous hair blowing in the breeze all while zooming around on their Vespas or strolling around the city.

Caught shopping in Milan

One thing I’ve learned in particular is that when it comes to Italian women and fashion, it’s all about "la bella figura";making a beautiful impression. This expression is a way of life for women in Italy, adhered to like a religion, no matter if they are at work, at home, or on vacation.

It’s not hard to fulfill this unwritten religious obligation in a country that has given the world such brand name fashions as Ferragamo, Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Prada, and more. With so many high-end labels at their fingertips, Italian women have elevated fashion to a new level, almost to an international art form that many other nationalities aspire to duplicate.

Elisabetta Canalis

Altho' not all Italian women can afford a full designer wardrobe, what they usually always splurge on is designer accessories; bags, shoes, jewellery etc.

Never underestimate the power of Gucci sunglasses!

I have both French and Italian girlfriends. If I am meeting a French friend, I can more or less guess what she will be wearing (in terms of style). If I meet with one of my Italian girlfriends, I never know what she will be wearing, and it will always have the “wow” factor. By “wow-factor” I don’t mean over-the-top, in a cocktail/frou-frou kind of way. I mean “Wow, how can she look so damn good just wearing jeans, a t’shirt and a butter soft leather jacket with matching bag, and not a Hermés scarf in sight?” My Italian friends never fail to astound me with their style.

Elisabetta Canalis aka George Clooney's arm-candy

And perhaps “there’s the rub” (as my good friend Shakespeare would say); because the Italian style is so unpredictable, personal, glamorous and authentic, there are no books written about Italian style, because it is something that cannot be prescribed. On the other hand, the French style can be easily prescribed and replicated, therefore losing it’s authenticity.

This is written principally about the style of women, let's not even start about Italian men!!! Even my husband was astounded by their style as we sat at a coffee shop, people watching in Milan.

I am sure there will be many of you who disagree with me, and that’s fine. Whatever your thoughts, I would love as always to hear them.

(Images courtesy of Grazia)

Spanish Sparkles

2011-06-03T11:44:00.000-07:00

OK, some of our Twitter friends already know about the wonderful Spanish designer
who has joined our boutique. But for those of you not on Twitter (and there are many!) here goes:

The wonderfully talented designer Carlos Madirolas joined our boutique about one month ago. As you can see from the images below, his designs are very contemporary, and so fit in perfectly with our niche. He has worked in Ibiza and Menorca taking much of his inspiration from these beautiful Spanish islands. But now his workshop (which is like an Aladdin's cave for me) is in Madrid. All pieces are made with Silver,24k Gold and semi-precious stones.

Just take a look at the images below.

It was seeing the ring on the left which resulted in me contacting Carlos re a collaboration. I just fell immediately in love with this ring.The gems used are, amtheyst,garnet, olivine, blue topaz http://bit.ly/jxrBu4

Gorgeous rings again using amethyst, garnet, olivine and blue topaz; you choose the stone you want when you order.http://bit.ly/iGGeYw

http://bit.ly/lxuicz

http://bit.ly/iS01j9

Absolutely LOVE this ring with my favorite stone http://bit.ly/iQiJlt

These lovely square rings really look gorgeous on the hand. It's just different to the normal round stones, and consequently these are the designs that are most popular since we have started selling them http://bit.ly/iet2mC

So what do you think? Am I raving for nothing? I would love to hear your views.
As a special introductory offer (you know how I love giving discounts-I will never be rich!!) we are offering 20% discount on ALL Carlos Madirolas pieces. Offer ends on Sunday 19 June 2011. Just enter code: CM06 on your order form.

If it's Good Enough for Bond............

2011-05-27T08:16:00.000-07:00

As it is the Monaco Grand Prix this weekend, I thought I would re-post this thread I did on Monaco some time ago.

This blog is about everything decadent (as the tag-line for our company is “Decadence for Divas”) and what more decadent a place than Monaco.
If you are from the USA you have Vegas. But if like me you are from Europe, then we have to settle for this little principality.

I have been to Monaco a few times, but the thing that strikes me is just how over-crowded and built up it is.

Here are some more facts I’ve gathered about the “playground for the rich and famous” :-

*Monaco is only about the size of Hyde Park (London), which is only about 350 acres. Now you get a feel for just how small this principality is.

*70% of people rent their homes in Monaco, including one of their richest residents Sir Phillip Green (owner of TopShop).

*the average rent for a “normal” apartment in Monaco starts at 25,000 GBP/ $40,000 or 30,000 Euros PER MONTH!

*A 4 bedroom duplex, facing the harbour will set you back 60M Pounds to buy. That works out to about 30,000 GBP/squared metre!

* 1.5 Million GBP will buy you 47 squared metre; basically a shoe box with no garden, or no pool. The most basic accommodation you can imagine.

*There are more millionaires per squared metre than anywhere else in the world.
There are approximately 2,000 Millionaires and 50 Billionaires currently living in Monaco.

*There is NO crime, and the papparazzi are banned from the principality.

*Every car license plate is scanned and recorded as it enters Monaco.

*The streets are scrubbed clean every morning, and there is no graffiti anywhere

*40,000 workers from France cross the border everyday to work.

*Monaco is 6X the size of the Vatican

*It is the most densely populated independent country (as you can see from the photos)

*The Gran Prix started in Monaco in 1929,and is now broadcast to 100M people. It is now deemed the most glamorous Gran Prix in the world.

*Lets not forget the principle reason people move to Monaco; it is a tax haven.

* Jack Nicholson called Monaco “Alcatraz for the rich!”

So there you have it, some trivia about one of the most glamorous places in Europe.
If you could, would you want to live there in a shoe box simply because your postcode was Monaco? I’m really not sure I would. I think I would prefer to live just across the border in France and get more “bang for my buck!”
I would love to hear your views, and if Monaco is on your list of “Places to see before I die!”

Live and Love Life

2011-05-09T08:04:00.000-07:00

While thinking about what to write today (it doesn’t come naturally for me you have to understand), I suddenly noticed a wonderful poem/piece of writing that I have had on my desk which was given to me by one of my first coaches. I have no idea who wrote it, but I think it is a wonderful reminder of how life should be.

Here it is:

"As we grow up, we learn that even the one person
that wasn’t supposed to ever let you down, probably will.

You will have your heart broken probably more than once,
and it’s harder every time.

You’ll break hearts too,
so remember how it felt when yours was broken.

You’ll fight with your best friend.

You’ll blame a new love for things an old one did.

You’ll cry because time is passing too fast,
and you’ll eventually lose someone you love.

So take too many pictures, laugh too much,
and love like you’ve never been hurt,
because every sixty seconds you spend upset
is a minute of happiness you will never get back.
(This is the sentence that really resonates with me the most-see why below)

Don’t be afraid that your life will end,
Be afraid that it will never begin!!!"

You can see the sentence that really speaks out loud to me- I will tell you why (without trying to be too maudlin). When my mum knew her days on this earth were coming to an end (she was only 49 and had cancer, and I was only 24!) she said she wished she could "just have back" the days when we argued and gave each other the silent treatment (she was a master at the silent treatment as punishment). To this day, I can't bear if someone is sulking or not talking. I apologise even if I have nothing to apologise for, because my mums words have stayed with me ever since; it's such a waste of precious time, because the clock is constantly ticking whether we hear it or not.

Anything you would add to this piece; something that should be included and isn't?

And the Winner is............................

2011-05-08T02:00:00.000-07:00

Well my lovelies, it's time to announce the lucky winner of our Spring Giveaway.
And the winner is: DAWN COSTEN

It's lovely to finally have a fellow Brit win our giveaway. All previous winners have been from across the Atlantic, so this is a nice surprise.

Dawn, please contact me (or I will try and contact you via Twitter).

A special thank you to ALL that entered, because without you participating it is no fun.

If you didn't win, don't worry, we will have another giveaway very soon; you just have to keep posted to our blog or Twitter announcements.

NOTE: please note that the winner was selected by random.org (I just have no idea how to add the image to my blog. Please forgive my lack of technical savvy!)

The Sweet Smell of Romance

2011-05-04T04:04:00.000-07:00

When the new Duchess of Cambridge walked down the aisle on April 29, the best-kept secret in fashion was finally revealed.
But while the world cooed over her Alexander McQueen gown, the perfume industry's noses were buzzing about what scent Catherine chose for her big day.
According to fragrance bloggers , Prince William's bride was wearing White Gardenia Petals by Illuminum, a little-known British brand (how do they know this?).

A description on the company website describes the £70 scent as 'fragrant as a vase of white flowers quivering in the breeze by an open window, this is a delicate and nuanced scent.'

It continues: 'The top note of coconut evokes a seaside location, while heart notes of muguet, ylang ylang and jasmine breeze bring a trio of white flowers into play.
'Amber wood underscores this capricious and light bouquet.'
Extremely verbose for what is in effect a floral scent.

The Illuminum brand was founded in 2007 by former celebrity hairdresser Michael Boadi. He previously styled stars including Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell before launching his first line of fragrances, called Boadicea The Victorious.
They were a huge hit with Mr Boadi's former clients - Michelle Obama purchased three scents in 2009 - and the Illuminum brand followed shortly after.
The company is unsurprisingly thrilled by word that Catherine wore their product.
Illuminum spokesman Michael Donovan told BaseNotes.com: 'I am so proud!'

It was also reported that the new Duchess of Cambridge requested her favourite scented candles and toiletries from luxury fragrance brand Jo Malone to be delivered to the Abbey.
A selection of candles, hand-washes and lotions was requested, specifically in citrus spring scents including Orange Blossom, Grapefruit and the ever-popular Lime, Basil & Mandarin.
These were for use inside the Abbey and for wedding guests using the royal bathroom and additional six VIP bathrooms.

I LOVE Jo Malone and stock up on her candles every time I go home to the UK. Will I try out this new perfume? I'm not sure. I'm not a floral girl when it comes to fragrances, more a citrus girl. But also I am not so easily influenced when shopping just because a famous name is attached to a product. I never buy celebrity perfumes etc.Maybe I am just a miserable "grinch". What about you? Will this new perfume be on your shopping list?
What is YOUR signature scent at the moment?

Gorgeous Gualy

2011-05-01T09:49:00.000-07:00

We are so pleased to welcome Gualy brand to our boutique(especially as we have on-line exclusivity).

Gualy is a European jewellery design brand (originally from Portugal) and recognized for its unusual jewellery designs, full of meaning and emotions. Each of Gualy’s unusual jewellery designs goes beyond beautiful contemporary forms and possesses an inherent meaning; products have names such as Simplicity, Lust, Freedom, Care, Belong, Happiness etc revealing a strong attachment towards the roles of women in our society. Their aim is to let women express themselves through jewellery design not driven by fashion, but rather by emotional concepts.

These earrings are minimalist on detail but absolutely gorgeous in form.It's obvious why the name of these earrings are Simplicity

The beauty is in this ring's Simplicity

Gorgeous ring enhanced with orange Topaz, Smokey Quartz and Citrine.Matching earrings also available

Freedom Passion ring

Freedom Sky ring
This ring comes in a multitude of finishes.

There's a reason why this ring is called Lust

This is just a small sneak at some of the lovely items that are now showcased in our boutique.
We are offering a special introductory discount of 20% on all Gualy products. This offer ends on Sunday 8 May.

Would love to hear your views/opinions on these pieces.

Are you a Rhinoceros?

2011-04-27T04:41:00.000-07:00

Last week some girlfriends and I were chatting together over a “liquid lunch” when one of my friends asked, “what animal would the people that know you say you are?”. Well at this point, I started to think about all the lovely creatures I “felt” I could be; a lovely butterfly, a peacock, a koala etc etc. After much ribbing and laughter between us, the friend that posed the initial question turned to me and said “Van, I think you are a rhino”! Well, you could have knocked me down with a feather. I was absolutely gob-smacked. This was one of my closest friends saying I reminded her of a rhino. However, before I could retaliate, (I think my friend noticed the ghastly shade of green I had turned), she explained herself very quickly. She said, “Van, you remind me of the horn of a rhino because that part boldly sticks out and precedes the body. The horn goes first; it is strong, courageous and relentless. It explores the unknown and dangerous; it removes all obstacles in it’s path so it can move freely and travel safely with greater speed. The horn confronts the problems it has on it’s path; it helps the rhino change direction and protect it from harm. The horn is the teacher, the body the follower. The horn gets scarred so that the body can remain safe”.

Suddenly I felt really happy at being described as a rhino (for the first time in my life I might add!). I wanted to jump up and hug her. What a wonderful description. I didn’t have time to think about the details, and the fact that now, following reflection, I think she was being over-generous, I just felt so pleased that her perception of me had been so strong. Make no mistake I am a real “girlie-girl”, but her description made me feel very powerful and strong.

When I got home I looked up some facts about the rhino, and also found out (by chance!) that when it breaks of part of it’s horn, it grows back as good as new. This I felt really sums up most women; the ability to start over when we have failed. For me this is the best part of being a rhino horn. It’s the part of us that plunges ahead into change even though we may be terrified. The part that feels the way forward in the dark. It’s the part of us that represents courage; courage to question, to be willing to hear answers we may not want to hear, courage to look within, courage to learn more about ourselves.

Suddenly I was really happy being a rhino and not a cuddly koala as I had initially hoped for.

What animal would your friends describe you as, and why?
(p.s don't forget to enter our Blog Giveaway below).