The Common Suspect

Changes, changes...

2011-08-24T18:33:00.000+03:00

Hello all!!

It has been terribly long that i haven't written anything in here, but these past months have indeed been quite hectic, as well as quite weird and uncommon. But, in the end, they say that every change is for the better, and so do i right now.

To make my self clear, my dearest readers, from now on you will hear from me straight from the beautiful capital of Alsace, Strasbourg, in France. This is the place where i finally decided to take my Master's degree on History of Art and Architecture, and i could not be more satisfied and, surprisingly enough, more stressed.

I cannot wait to share photos and impressions with you, but i also look forward to getting to feel this city like home and make many new friends there. Honestly, i consider the factor ''making friends'' the most important and the most crucial, so as to have a great time, no matter where you are. Let's see people...!

I now leave you with much joy, due to the fact that i finally found some time and some words to express myself after all these months, and i promise to be back soon, with news on art, fashion and the big move ''Athens-Strasbourg''.

Here are some pics from the upcoming new home of mine! Always courtesy of Google images.

Kiss kiss*

Circus Beauty...

2011-04-14T14:22:00.000+03:00

My love for photography is already a fact. My addiction to concept photoshoots is growing strong everyday, and such findings only make it worse..Reese Witherspoon for Vogue US by amazing Peter Lindbergh, concept inspired by her upcoming movie ''Water for elephants''. Beautiful setting, wonderful colours, gorgeous light, charming lady, breath-taking gowns. A successful recipe indeed.

kiss kiss*

images via fashiongonerogue.com

Art Report: Paris 1900...

2011-04-05T00:58:00.000+03:00

Although it's been more than a month that this exhibition ended and i was lucky enough to pay a visit on the last day of the display, i've got to tell you: that was a life experience. Period. If you live in Athens, you have definitely heard of the National Gallery's major exhibition called: ''Paris 1900, Art Nouveau and Modernism. Treasures from Petit Palais''.
So, it was all about Paris in the beginning of the 20th century, belle epoque and the art movements, the artists, the people, the Universal Exhibition, the vibrant city that hosted it all. We might not have seen masterpieces or anything innovative, but it felt like being in the big, impressive halls of Louvre. Thouroughly analysed historical and social context, representative works of art, posters, newspaper articles and reviews of that age, architectural plans, costumes and, last but not least, an interesting emphasis on the greek participation at the Exhibition Universelle de Paris. All very well presented, organised and displayed. Like a breath of fresh air, in a city with a really controversial relationship with art and its aspects. At least as I see it. But that's another story.

Georges Clairin's portrait of Sarah Bernhardt

Charles-Alexandre Giron : La femme aux gants, dite la Parisienne.

The paintings above were the two most significant works of art that the Petit Palais offered for this exhibition. As you can easily tell, the pics are not mine. Photographs were strictly forbidden and i wanted to respect this. Despite my respecting, there were disturbingly many people ignoring the restriction and checking whether the guards were looking at their side, so as to take a few shots. I know it may be an exaggeration, but i was furious. What's so bad about obeying to several rules when visitng a specific place?

And with this complaint, i'm closing this post! hehe.

kiss kiss*

Marko Matysik Fashion Illustration...

2011-03-31T13:56:00.000+03:00

So, i should make something clear, cause i might become a pain in the neck in the posts to come: i LOVE iilustration as a form of art, and fashion illustration even more! I'm browsing way too many illustration websites everyday, but sometimes i come across some seriously talented people out there. One of them is Marko Martysik. I particularly enjoy how old-fashioned(in a good way, of course) his work looks, but if you take a closer look, you'll see how detailed and beautiful it is. I won't say more, see for yourselves:

What do you think?

kiss kiss*

ps: find out more about the illustrator here .

All pics taken form google images.

Still In Berlin...

2011-03-25T16:43:00.000+02:00

Although it's been almost 2 years from my Berlin summer, i still recall moments from this exciting city, a place where no matter how many countries you've visited, this one will definitely be something entirely new and radical. I'm still not sure if my fascination surpassed my feeling of in-hospitality(i know, i'm the very first to say this, everybody feels like home over there!), but there's one thing i'm positive about: Berlin is a category of its own, concerning every single aspect: museums, parks, bars, monuments, churches, shops, everything. So, needless to say, it's a must! Book your tickets, make a room reservation (dramatically cheap, no kidding!) and go broaden your horizons, go gain some extremely new experiences!Go get inspired! Enjoy!

The beautiful Spree River by night

@Reichstag

I would have actually bought this, if i had the enormous ammount of money required!

@Pergamon Museum

Beyond words touching: screaming faces in memory of the Holocaust.Visitors of the Jewish Museum are actually supposed to step on these and the noise produced is a reminder of the pain caused.

If that doesn't make a city artistic, then what does: all the city's monuments under you shoes.

By far my favourite pic from this trip: in front of the Berlin Wall, the meeting/reunion of the east and west Berliner. Incredibly heart-breaking.

So, that would be all dears! If you've ever been there, don't be shy: share your own favourites here!

kiss kiss*

Movie report: The King's Speech

2011-03-16T22:32:00.001+02:00

Dear readers,

this is officially my first movie review, so i thought i should begin with one of my latest favorites.Let me put it straight: ''the king's speech'' is a movie that you will either love to death or hate forever. Why's that? you may wonder..Well, this is one slow movie...not much of a blockbuster, nor special effects included (although for me, the costumes were more fascinating than any special effect!). You might even find it too historically-oriented for the average viewer, this is one comment i heard from many-many pals that were like: ''Why would i care if George of England couldn't give a proper speech?Why is that supposed to be catchy?'' As a matter of fact, it's not catchy at all. And it's not a movie for those of you who were unlucky enough to go to the movies to relax after a busy day.

But! If you love history, like i do, if you love history movies or even movies of a deep, detailed psychological approach OR if you simply love Colin Firth as an actor (i happen to go crazy for all 3 of them!!), this is a must-see!

Don't let me start with the performances, oh my! Colin Firth was painfully into the role, i was catching myself getting nervous during the speech scenes, he is one great actor.

Helena Bonham Carter was once again astonishing, although she wasn't(once more)the crazy witch, but the humble,yet dynamic wife, proving that one can make an impression even in a supporting role. And last but not least, my all time favorite Geoffrey Rush was delightful beyond words!!I mean, if you haven't seen this one yet, i would totally suggest it for Rush's performance alone! The man is a genious and he proves it here once more!(if you ask me, he's the one who should undoubtedly have the golden statue at home right now!Colin, no offence intented!)

Apart from the previous, i found the entire approach of the difficult subject called ''depicting the family behing the palace'' very sweet, but not melodramatic. The king was presented in all his humanity (don't get me wrong, but you know how little information there is about royal families and politicians in general, so making a guess and filming it, is quite a challenge for me!), but, all in all, the movie was quite amusing actually! You'll laugh your heart out in several scenes, especially if you love the british sense of humour, but, most importantly, this a film that makes you think.

Think about the courage that we all carry and rarely put in use, think about the importance of supporting your beloved in moments of weakness, think about the power of will. I believe movies of such content help us move forward as people. As simple as that.

So, is this one a do or a don't for you?

I would say:

SEE IT: if you are a brit-freak like i am, if you are a movie-junky or if you want to have an opinion about this year's oscar winners. Plus, don't get me started with the performances again!

DON'T SEE IT: if you are a blockbuster fan, if you believe that a movie without special effects should go straight to the video-clubs, if you believe that Steven Seagal is the best actor of all times and the Rocky&Rambo saga the epitomy of good, old cinema.

Don't be shy!Give your own review/opinion underneath!And please feel free to disagree!hehe

kiss kiss*

Art report: The Bath-house of the Winds & some news...

2011-03-09T13:30:00.002+02:00

Dear readers,

It's been sooo long that i haven't written a single word in here, that you would probably think that i'm dead or something.Yet....all alive!!Just had the most important university exams so far, two courses to go and then we'll have a degree to brag about...hehe.
On other news, i'm still on the hunt for the most suitable masters degree for me, getting papers translated and studying foreign languages again, so as to recall the so long forgotten knowledge! And as the exams are over, i started my exhibitions crusade again and decided that since this activity is such a big part of my everyday life, i would like to share with you my impressions on every place i visit. Afterall, this space is nothing more than a personal diary and our diary always reflects our hobbies, interests and thoughts, right? So, here we go, from now on, you'll have the chance to read about museums, exhibitions, events, movies, books, of course fashion, or to be more clear, about style, since i am not willing to turn this page into a fashion magazine, i want it to be of a more personal nature and contain things i would stop by and read myself, too. Ok, the delirium stops right here. Thank you.

I recently found myself in the most amazing historical place in Athens, the Bath-house of the Winds. I visited this annex of the Museum of Greek Folk Art, so as to see in person an exhibition of Lydia Venieri, called The Dolphin Conspiracy, that was supposed to be outstanding. Cannot say that i was really captured by the exhibition, although i admired a couple of things, such as the flower branches that were climbing and reaching the ceiling or the digital printings. Overall it was a bit tiring for me, although this is just my point of view. But, to my surprise, the huge discovery was the hosting place itself. I had heard before about the Bath-house of Athens, but i never felt it was necessary to visit it; i always thought it would be some abandoned building with no particular interest. I couldn't be more wrong! Take a look for yourselves:

This a perfectly maintained historical place, in a beautiful neoclassical building, with a unique atmosphere and a well-trained staff, willing to provide you with all the details. I was actually introduced to the place by the audio guide, that contained all the basic information and even had recitations of greek literature, about bath-houses,so as to give a more lively description of the role bath-houses kept playing in Greece for centuries.
And here are some pics from the Venieri exhibition:

Loved this one!

A huge scetchbook of the artist,full of drawings(loved this one,too)

Unfortunately, the exhibition is now over(i myself visited it on the last day of the display), but you can always pay a visit at the Bath-house and admire something you don't see everyday. Honestly, this spot is beyond imagination, and i am generally considered to be a strict judge. So, next time you take a stroll at the Plaka area, combine your coffee with this visit and you'll see what i mean(u can find all the necessary details on the linked words above).

kiss kiss*

The Talented Miss Mulligan...

2011-02-09T12:15:00.000+02:00

Dear readers,

As promised, i couldn't stay more into that confused mood , so i'm back with a stunning discovery i made quite some time ago, but it still fascinates me everytime i take a look at it.
Carey Mulligan is, at least for me, one of the sweetest, talented, charming young ladies out there. She's not that big beauty that leaves you speechless, but that's exactly what i like about her: she's so ''the girl next door'', simple and low-profile, with a shy smile, looking always a bit uncomfortable but in such a cute way. Of course always very well-dressed with a unique sense of style, that combines a retro mood with a twist. Plus, those hair...aw, how i wish i could have such a haircut one day, but feel good and confident in it. Not many of us can do this, but Carey certainly can sport it perfectly.
What we've got here is a shooting for Vogue US October 2010, through the lens of Peter Lindbergh and styled by (who else?) amazing Grace Coddington. I've expressed my huge admiration for Grace's work before, so i won't bore you with the same stuff. I'll just say that Carey was the perfect pick to present some astonishing designs of Chanel, Valentino and Dior, giving them an innocence and childish charm, that i adored. If i could put a title in this photoshoot, i guess it would be ''little princess goes to the old west''. Enjoy!

So, what do you think? Cannot wait to hear your impressions.

kiss kiss*

source: fashiongonerogue.com

Crossroads...

2011-02-04T21:53:00.000+02:00

Dear readers,

These days are rough. As simple as that. Have you ever reached a point in your life, where one chapter ends, you were too happy with the idea of this end before, but now that it's here, you simply don't have a clue about how you feel about it. The eagerness and happiness left for good, for the questioning and doubts to take their place. And when you're standing with both feet on a crossroads, having everyone that loves you and cares about you waiting for you to decide what's best for you to do, how is that making things better...?
Well, truth is, there are worse things in life than deciding what to do with your life from now on, like for example, not having food or clear water, but, let's be honest, when you have some problems solved, you move on to the next ones and so on. So, here i am, reaching the end of my postgraduate studies, feeling until recently absolutely ready for the next big step, a masters degree in a field i've been wanting to study for like, 5 years, ready to get out of my confort zone, ready to go for my dreams and achieve them, become the best at it, be happy about it.
And suddenly, it hit me: is this really what i want? how can i be sure about it anyway? and what if i go for it and realise after some time, that this is not what i was made for? But how the hell do you figure out what are you made for? Go to a therapist or something? Go to a studies consultant? Oh man, does this have an end anyway?
The worst part of this is that time is of the essence right now, it's like i have to get to a conclusion in a couple of months and start the necessary preparations(send my files and everything). And what's best about it all, is that i can easily imagine myself as everything i like: as an art historian(maaany years' dream), as a cultural journalist, as an interpreter. I know, say it: how do these three relate to each other?? I know they don't ,that's the problem about it!
Am i asking for much, when expecting to wake up one day and say: "oh yes, this is it! this makes me super happy, this fulfills my dreams, let's go for it"? Probably yes..!
As the situation seems unsolvable for now, all i can say is:

Dream people! For some reason i strongly believe that thinking and dreaming is the 'gold recipe' to find a way out of all the dilemmas in life.
Anyway, i must say that if you're still reading this, you're a friend, and i thank you for that. And if you've been in any similar situation before, on same or different kind of issues, i would love to hear your story and opinion, honestly.

kiss kiss*

ps: the future posts(although they will be rare, i'm in the middle of my exams, 3 to go for the degree!) will be of a more positive spirit, i promise!;)

Blast from the (xmas) past..Part II

2011-01-11T14:55:00.001+02:00

Dear readers,

First things first, have a happy happy happy new year!!Wishing you all the best from the bottom of my heart, be yourselves, seize the day, set your goals and go for them.
As for me, i'm still sticking with the holiday spirit and won't let go until every decoration is put away or, perhaps, until winter sales begin. Well, between me and you, that's one thing to wait for, right? But, until then, let me share with you, some more of my own, personal, beloved christmas memories, full of colours, lights and joy. Enjoy!

So, that was the last post dedicated to Christmas(probably the last in the whole blogging world, check your calendar), i promise! But before we leave the whole thing back, i would love to hear your own special christmas memories and narrations, so feel free to share it here!

PS: This post was supposed to be published a lot earlier,but since my internet connection keeps torturing me, don't be surprised if you hear from me again in summer, talking about Easter..hehe. Hope to see you again soon, it all depends on this web curse i'm suffering from.

kiss kiss*

Blast from the (xmas) past..Part I

2010-12-28T17:38:00.001+02:00

Dear readers,

Christmas is all about family gatherings, friends get-togethers, homy atmosphere, baking goodies and sharing wishes endlessly; which is good actually and we like it. But if you ask me, going on a trip abroad during christmas holidays,when all the cute decorations are on and the winter sales are about to begin, well, you certainly put me in front of quite a temptation.
Fortunately, i did manage to combine both, twice so far, and since we are in the middle of christmas holidays, i liked the idea of sharing with you some of these memories, with a big wish to all of you, to spend your holidays however you dream, full of joy and love.

Any hint of where these pics were taken at? Hehe. After all, it's not worth mentioning.What's important is that i had the time of my life with people i love. I wish you have the same, not only during christmas, but all year round. Have fun these days!

kiss kiss*

L'homme de ma vie...

2010-12-23T03:24:00.000+02:00

Dear readers,
Say hi to this boy. He's my undoubted and strongest love, he cheers me up and calms me down, ever since he stepped foot in my place.That's why i decided to dedicate a post exclusively to his highness Fidel, my fluffy, cutie pal. I'm a proud, proud mama!

Same size with my sneakers..39 cm that is..

Growing up to be a gorgeous young man...

Always sporting a hairy look..hehe..

So, tell me about your own lovely siblings, share photos and thoughts, i would love to learn all about them.

kiss kiss*

Queen of Burlesque...

2010-12-20T03:29:00.001+02:00

Dear readers,
Whether you're fond of her or not, you must admit she's impeccable at what she does. Scandalous? Probably. Unique? Definitely. I can surely see myself as one of the greatest fans of the Burlesque movement itself, both about the intrinsic style and exciting stories it carries along the decades of its existence, but Dita Von Teese is in the top 5 of my very own style icons.Aside from the fact that she carries that 'old hollywood' air that i love so, she's always perfectly punctual at it, a thing i appreciate much.
At this specific photoshoot, she's put in a slightly different concept from what she represents, but she still looks stunning. So, here's my advice: take some time, visit her official site and the imdb page dedicated to her, check out her style, her show costumes and her whole attitude and please let me know: if that's not called a successful life choice, then what is it?~~(Marilyn Manson aside)~~

kiss kiss*

PS: the common suspect did not just rise from the dead, lack of internet connection is my excuse. Hope this never finds you people, hehe.

Tracing Istanbul...

2010-11-30T02:38:00.001+02:00

Dear readers,
I am very happy to notice that something's shaking lately in this city: more festivals, more cultural spaces, more open-air exhibitions, more important and talked-about events in general, that make me strongly believe that somebody was listening, when i was wishing to see more stuff like this in town.
So, this time, i was more than excited to get the chance to visit the notorious exhibition about Istanbul and examine how 101 greek artists depicted this beautiful and contradictory city, through their works. In case you haven't heard nor read anything about it, this was an exhibiton that in the first place was hosted at the Theological School of Halki, a historical place, that had caused series of quarrels between Greece and Turkey, and was, for the first time after decades, opened for this particular event. Later on, the exhibition was transfered at Technopolis, Gazi, where it was beautifully presented, accompanied by a documentary projection about the city and the touching, instrumental music of Evanthia Reboutsika following your steps, while exploring the works of art.
I won't say more, just let you throw a glimpse at some of the works that captured my eye, from an exhibition that has been talked and praised internationally.

Unfortunately, the exhibition lasted only almost a month, proving that, despite the admirable try, we still have to correct some quite important ''details'', as for example, the fact that an event so well organised, with such a welcoming from critics and public, should be better evaluated. After all, when i payed a visit there, the place was full of tourists and it was an excellent example of what we can offer and how it was indeed embraced by locals and not.

More notable things coming up here, so stay tuned.

kiss kiss*

Pics from the Brits...

2010-11-15T01:10:00.001+02:00

Dear readers,
Since you've already read about the london trip here, i'll let the photos do the talking, along with some key-words, cause if i begin talking, especially about fashion and art, you'll leave this page, sooner or later. So, London is all about:

The high streets:

The crappy and the happy..

This city makes you happier, people!

And the beautiful corners:

Note: if you have doubts on whether you're suffering from agoraphobia or not, do pay a visit at the Portobello Market. It's the perfect place to find out. Aside from that, it's a lovely walk over there.

Amazing guys, i wish i had a video of them to share with you. We were absolutely carried away.

And by night:

Well, i don't care how cliche this shot has become, i am still in love with this london spot, especially by night.

And the delicacies:

Once more, the red velvet cupcake from hummingbird bakery.No words to describe it. Literally.

We did some wild shopping over there. What do we hold? Take a look underneath.

Candycakes!! Not as tasteful as it looks though. And where was it bought from?

A bit kitsch, a bit 50's, a bit barbie-influenced. Can it get any girlier?

Hungry beggars outside a chinese restaurant.

And other kind of delicacies:

Vintage eyewear

Cute, small designer's shops. Well, this one might not suit my taste quite much, but the window did catch one's eye.

And the parks:

@Kensington Gardens

We all have bad moments. Celebrities are no exception (love ya girl!)

To my huge surprise, i bumped into an Anish Kapoor open-air exhibition at Hyde Park. I was so happy to see in person some of his sculptures.

And the walks along the river:

Annoying boys

And the so out of the blue discovery of a real artist.

And the old markets:

And the Camden charm:

Note: the weird thing behind my head is not a headpiece. It's an antenna. Oh yes!

Dazed and confused...

And the hidden gems:

@Neal's Yard

Same weird guy in all my pretty pics...

And the endless lager:

So thirsty......

Be a man, have a beer....

And, above all this, the people you share these with: crazy, hilarious, beloved people.

Cheers mates!

Last note: in case you're wondering, what's with the white coat and the beige boots all the time, well, blame it on the weather, i packed for Autumn and i found freezing cold. I believe you get me. For what it's worth, it's a previous collection Zara coat, a pair of coolway boots, a blue Accessorize cross-body bag and a huge, cross-body camel bag, bought from Camden Market. That's all dears!

kiss kiss*

Buldoza.gr has hit the town

2010-11-01T19:38:00.000+02:00

Dear readers,

As online shopping has nowadays become extremely popular and any product that crosses our mind, can easily cross our door within a few days, it's an even bigger joy to be introduced to such online stores, that are launched and ran, here, in Greece.
Buldoza.gr can proudly call itself a new-born, but fully-equiped and perfectly organised online shopping heaven. In their own words, Buldoza is an online store, trying to offer products from the best greek and international brands in menswear, womenswear, homeware and personal care products.

What's so different about those guys, according to them:
1) Competitive prices in all their products
2) Excellent customer care service

What's so different about those guys, according to my humble opinion:
1) Separate sections inside every product category for new arrivals and products on sale.
2) Detailed searching criteria, such as brand name, price range, style, occasion.
3) Easy to browse and find quickly what you're looking for.
4) Variety in paying methods and free product return, with the easiest instructions.
5) Free shipping for all orders over 50 euros.
6) A ''compare 2 similar products'' machine, that facilitates your choice and saves you time and money.
7) And last but not least, the staff behind Buldoza, a bunch of young and super cool people, hard-working and amazingly enthusiastic with what they do. Plus, those guys know how to throw a good party. And that, i appreciate much.

So, do pay a visit on their site, check out their hilarious blog to learn all the backstage secrets, or even follow them on facebook and twitter. Aw! And don't forget to take a look at my own favorite jumper and dress.

kiss kiss*

The trip and the style storm...

2010-10-26T04:30:00.000+03:00

Dear readers,

As you already know from other greek fellow bloggers and friends, we are reaching the end of 2 weeks full of style and fashion vibes: Fashion Week and AXDW, that is. Thousands of photos, stylish people, amazing designers, innovative ideas, breath-taking shows, cocktails and chit-chatting with friends, old and new. But someone missed half of that fun!
Well, i am always sad for having missed the entire Fashion Week, but London was not less cooler those days of October. Details and pics comin'up soon, as the bad blogger's still attending the AXDW and is exhausted. Since tomorrow's the last day of it all, i'll get the chance asap to share with you photos and impressions, from this super-interesting experience, too. Nothing more to say.
For now, a small then&now preview:


London, March 2008: Happy @ Hyde Park.


London, October 2010: Hungry @ Hyde Park.

Is this change in the adjectives of the two sentences considered to be the evolution of mine? Peut-etre!

A tres bientot!

kiss kiss*

PS1: first pic, tous bag..oh boy, where was the fashion police? So against big logos right now.

PS2: second pic, starring hummingbird bakery's notorious cupcakes's left-overs. fyi, i did have a partner in this crime, it's not what it looks like.

Amazing Grace...

2010-10-10T17:33:00.001+03:00

Dear readers,

It is a common truth that if i say the name Anna Wintour, you all know who am i talking about...there's even a documentary dedicated to her and her legendary skills ~~and strictness~~. But what about another lady, sort of ''hidden gem'' behind every Vogue US's issue? Well, if you happened to see the ''September Issue'', you are definitely aware of the name Grace Coddington, the super-talented creative director of the magazine, whose editorials keep stealing my heart every single month. But the one that follows, really left me speechless. We all know one of this season's hit trend is the 50's comeback, we all know how the notorious Mad Men tv series inspired deeply many catwalks, but this photoshoot has captured perfectly the 50's spirit and charm and has presented to the public such an amazing result, that's got nothing less than many authentic 1950's photoshoots. Once more, Grace amazed us and proved herself to be the ''heart and soul'' of the US Vogue, as my good friend Katerina has put it.
So, i present you Lara Stone by Mert & Marcus for Vogue US September 2010:

I should finally add this: posting photoshoots and editorials is not into this blog's purposes, but, when something that good comes up, i cannot turn a blind eye. So do expect such posts in the future, but always remember: they are the ones that totally stole my heart and made me stare at them for hours.
Lots of love.

kiss kiss*

source: fashiongonerogue.com

Art in the City...

2010-10-05T04:47:00.002+03:00

Dear readers,
Saturday morning's down town walk was a delight. I was invited to step by City Link's arcade at Voukourestiou street, by my dearest friend Maria Tsagkari, a very talented new painter, whose name i am sure you'll come across quite often in the future. She was taking part in a project that thrilled me with its originality and diversity.
20 visual artists, undergraduates and young graduates of Athens School of Fine Arts were called to create a big, open-air atelier in the arcade of City Link, where they created works of art, on one subject: the city of Athens. The best part of this event was that every person passing by the arcade from Thursday to Saturday morning, was able to watch the process of creating a piece of art, from the very beggining to the final result.
Saturday noon, every artist had to put down his tools and brushes and be judged by a jury, consisting of professors of the School of Fine Arts and art critics.The three best works were awarded, and i was so happy and proud of Maria, who won the second place and was once more awarded for her amazing work. Below follow the three awarded works of art and, after those, some that i admired quite much. Enjoy!


1st prize, Untitled. Awesome work, the artist had been carefully collecting the items from the garbage and painted them white, to show that this city might be full of dirt, but it still is bright and beautiful.


Interesting details


Interesting details #2


The young artist in front of her work


2nd prize- Maria's amazing painting, The Arsaki Arcade.(just take a close look at the technique of perspective and the use of light. Love it!)


Detail of the painting, where you can see the face of a representative greek 1950's house with a couple of old, plastic chairs and the light from the inside to show the human presence.


3rd prize, Untitled. This was such an interesting and original work of art. The (very) young artist wanted to express her disappointment about the fact that the residents of this city are like a mass, receiving a bunch of standard crap/shit/you name it, without critical thinking.


A close-up

And the rest of the wonderful works that attracted my attention:

So, I am leaving you with a wish: let's hope that such events will be multiplied in the future. Especially now, we do need fresh ideas and new faces in town ; i am telling you, the city center did look a bit more charming with such an event taking place in its heart.

kiss kiss*

Awarded&Awarding...Tagged&Tagging...

2010-09-25T20:20:00.002+03:00

Dear readers,

After a thousand years from the time i actually got an award and a tag from my beloved fellow-bloggers and friends Dindinaki and Katerina, i decided it is about time to make a post about them and pass them on to some other amazing blogo-girls! Truth is, exams are finally over, so i can get back to blogging and commenting on other blogs now, which i missed quite much. So here we go my lovely readers, 7 things you need(huh?) to know about me and 10 things that make me happy:

7 things about me and a wonderful award from Dindinaki:

1.I find Rita Hayworth the most amazing woman that earth has seen so far. Female,curvy body, gorgeous hair, beautiful face, great dancer with a spontaneous style and behaviour, that was simply impeccable.
2. After turning 60 years old, i have promised myself to move to a small, picturesque village in Alsace, France and open and run my own bakery, with homemade cookies and muffins.
3. My everyday ''wake up'' music consists of Muse and my ''relax&lay back'' music of Pink Martini.
4. I love coconut in every possible version: in body lotions, in perfumes, in cakes, in everything.
5. I am the biggest hater of products with huge logos on them. I firmly believe that a good piece of clothing, shoes, bag etc.are special and unique,thanks to their material and design and not because they carry a certain recognizable logo.
6. As you probably understood from the above fact, i strongly believe that money cannot buy style. You can shop exclusively from flea markets and still look fabulous, if you've got fashion sense.
7. I find jeans the most uncomfortable piece of clothing ever. I know i sound like a weirdo, but it's my own, painful truth.No matter how many years i've spent, searching for the perfect pair, nothing fits me as good as my beloved dresses and skirts.

10 things that make me happy from Katerina:

1. Winter clothing: warm knitwear, woolen scarves, gloves and hats, big, cozy coats, love them all.
2. Donna Karan's ''Cashmere Mist''. For some reason, it smells so familiar and home-like.
3. Christmas and EVERYTHING about it. Especially snowy x-mas is my best thing.
4. Locomondo and their up-lifting spirit and tracks.
5. Open-air festivals and concerts.
6. Colours and floral patterns on clothes and tights, they can make my day.
7. A hot cup of chocolate in the middle of cold winter.
8. Visiting Vienna. Don't ask, i feel that this city could easily become my hometown. Extremely cold weather, small, cozy cafes with great pastry products, warm and welcoming people, great architecture and interesting museums. Plus, the Austrians are considered to be the happiest Europeans and the fifth happiest people on earth. Why go anywhere else?
9. Art books and new exhibitions in town.When it comes to these, i act like a child in an amusement park.
10. Meeting people proud of their choices(from style to life choices) and loyal to them.

So, i pass the award on to the following 7 lovely bloggers:

1. Joanaddicted from ordinarypulse.blogspot.com
2. Kotitsa from fashionkotes.blogspot.com
3. Annie from mimzygirl.blogspot.com
4. Margarita from www.princessmargot.com
5. Christina from christina-g.blogspot.com
6. Katerina from fashionalgorithms.blogspot.com
7. Eliza from mirrordiaries.blogspot.com

And i tag the following 3 lovely girls to tell us 10 things that make them happy:

1.Kataifi from lasninasylosninos.blogpsot.com
2. Angie from chasingkitesbyangie.blogspot.com
3. Ourania K. from unefilleetsonchien.blogspot.com

Thank u all girls for being so great and inspirational. Spoiler alert: another couple of taggings coming up soon. I guess it's raining tags lately, but i love it! hihi!

kiss kiss*

Winter fruits on my shoe tree...

2010-09-01T16:55:00.001+03:00

Dear readers,

I proudly present you my shoe tree:

Located in my imaginary garden, next to the clothes and the handbag tree, it's being watered daily with love and well taken care of. But as seasons change, so do its fruits. And since Autumn is a breath away (not really, but a girl has a right to dream), new fruits are on and i cannot wait to try them on..
Fyi, those trees are like super-talented and keep producing ''la creme de la creme'' of what's out there for this season. Enjoy!

From top: camel leather heels: Modcloth, red victorian ankle boots: Jeffrey Campbell, mary janes: Modcloth, green pumps with velvet ribbon: Poetic License, white and red brogues: Modcloth, grey and blue pumps with red satin ribbon: Poetic License, candy coloured t-straps: Seychelles, blue woolen pumps with brown leather straps: Modcloth.

So what do you think of them? I don't know about you, but i'm off on the hunt for even one pair of those. (especially the brogues, oh my!!)
Once more, offers and gifts accepted with gratitude!
Kiss kiss*

all pics are taken from modcloth.com

Postcards from Chios...

2010-08-25T23:47:00.000+03:00

Medieval castles and villages, endless forests, deep turquoise sea. That's what Chios is all about.

P.S: I do know that i should have posted first about vacation and then about wintry editorials. But i couldn't help it. Sorry.
More postcards from more places coming soon.

Kiss kiss*

Checks and the City...

2010-08-20T18:59:00.000+03:00

Finally!! A different photo shoot, worth to be mentioned. Very theatrical, very edgy, in the center of Manhattan (outdoors shootings are very rare lately), with super-model Karlie Kloss being so expressive, dark and blazy.

Plus, it makes me crave for winter to come, i miss cold days and raindrops and clouds and snow(so so so rare here)...but mostly, i miss wintry clothes, cozy, warm and way more stylish than summery, especially knitted clothes are, undoubtedly, my thing. The following editorial is featured in Vogue US's notorious ''September Issue''.

So, are you a winter or summer type of person? And how do seasons affect your style?

Can't wait to hear your thoughts.

Kiss kiss*
all photos are taken from fashiongonerogue.com

The Suitcase Project

2010-08-04T10:48:00.000+03:00

Dear readers,
I 've got to be honest with you: if there's one thing i hate more in the world, that's packing. Unpacking is fine for me, just putting back to their place a bunch of stuff. But choosing from zero every single thing and having the stress that something so very important, such as the toothbrush or the whole underwear will be forgotten behind, causes me hugely bad mood.Needless to say,i'm a freak with my personal stuff, ESPECIALLY with my toothbrush, i use it 3 times per day.It's indeed quite a lack of an essential!
So, this year, i decided to follow the easy way and keep it simple and plain. First came the necessary: towels, underwear, toothbrush(obviously) etc. But, after those, few, very few things followed(and i am not being ironic).
Take a look for yourselves:

5 dresses...for 10 days..who cares? packing more would mean confusion when getting ready for night walks. So 5 pieces, two plain, three more colorful and an available washing machine are my thing this summer.

(looking for pants? not here, not during vacation. sorry, comfort is the goal.)

From left to right:

strapless maxi dress: I&D colors

white dress: H&M (previous collection)

blue-striped dress: I&D colors

black, polka dot dress: H&M

purple dress with flowers: HEEL

2 pairs of sandals, one pair of flip-flops, two handbags. Matching the same-coloured pieces is not my thing, so it will be "blue sandals-brown bag/brown sandals-blue bag" and that's it!

From left to right:

blue sandals: no idea

brown sandals: handmade, bought last year from Crete

flip-flops: S885 by Mr.Vintage

both handbags from H&M

The accessories: could it be any easier? only necklaces, two simple(one brown, one white to match everything) and two more embellished to accessorize the plain dresses. Done with that.

From left to right:

brown, wooden necklace: handmade, bought from a greek island

second and third necklace: Accessorize

white necklace: bought from Italy

Apparently, i need those above. My small swimwear collection: three tops, two bottoms.(it seems i lost the bottom of the floral one, sad cause i liked it so much..)

From left to right:

floral top: Calzedonia

turquoise top and bottom: Guess

polka dot top and black bottom: Accessorize

And last but not least, my beach-essentials: two sundresses to go with my swimwear, my huge sunglasses, a sunscreen with very high spf(that's what you get when you look like the Snow White), my enormous hat, that protects me AND my pals from sun radiation and my current reading, George Orwell's "Down and out in Paris and London". Easy, wasn't it?

From left to right:

dress: I&D colors

white dress: Oysho(previous collection)

sunscreen: Frezyderm

sunglasses: vintage, bought from Italy

hat: fullah sugah by skondras

book: penguin editions

That's all folks!

Off to go!!

Have the greatest summer vacation ever!

Big salty kisses*

The Festival Girls...

2010-07-22T14:22:00.001+03:00

Dear readers,
It's sad, i know, but we're not blessed with big summer festivals, here in Greece. That is why we crave for summer concerts or any kind of open-air event, it puts us in a brit festive-mood, that, no matter if you love the UK lifestyle or not(by the way, i do. a lot.), you do feel a little jealous of the big, worldwide famous festivals that take place all over the country every summer. The music, the free, wild spirit, the ''woodstock nostalgia'' feeling, the crazily singing and dancing, the not-sleeping for days, the inpirational outfits. Especially the last ones. You have to admit, you all have thought from time to time, what would you wear if you were, let's say, at Glastonbury. Haven't you?
Well, aparrently, the brit(or not) festival girls, show us the way. Infamous but stylish, they really are an inspiration for all of us, who, at least for now, attend big festivals, only via our wild imagination. The following ones were spotted at Wireless, Lovebox, Isle of Wright and Glastonbury Festivals.
Enjoy...

And one last, more recognizable girl, who never stops confirming her title as a ''hippie-chic fashionista'':

We heart Sienna!

So what is your ideal festival outfit? Are there, anyway, any do's and dont's?

Can't wait to hear your thoughts!

kiss kiss*

all photos are taken from vogue.co.uk

Splendor in the grass...

2010-07-09T19:15:00.000+03:00

...is one of my favorite songs ever, that i was lucky enough to enjoy live last night by the fabulous China Forbes, during the Pink Martini concert. I find it beautiful, touching, deeply sentimental and a very special choice to include in an album, from a group that's used to a totally different style. All in all, yesterday's live was wonderful, i can't find a better word to express my impressions. I danced to all those great, melodic songs, in a windy but very romantic summer night and i loved the fact that every single person into the theater was shaking to the rhythm, even grandmas, even kids(don't ask, it appears the group has a very wide audience).

The one and only pic i took during the concert, i was too busy dancing..

I was more than eager to listen to my all time favorites ''Brazil'', ''Lilly'', ''Tempo Perdido'', ''Una notte a Napoli'' and i'm so pleased i left without complaints, EXCEPT that it lasted way too little, at least for a ticket of 40 euros, i expected something longer! Yet, i left happy...

See? Happy...

The ''dancing alone'' kind of happy...

The ''doing meaningless grins to the camera'' kind of happy...

What can i say? I had a good time, that's for sure!

Before i leave you, i would like to share with you some details from last night's outfit that belong to the category ''details that make me happy''. I believe we all have such details on clothes, accessories, bags, shoes that cheer us up, right? So, here are some of mine...

Necklace detail..love the tiny horse on it..

Woolen daisy hung by the tote with a little ribbon...

Details of the outfit: dress, H&M. necklace, Accessorize. sandals, no idea. tote, Harrod's-mum's gift. ring, bought from a flea market in Italy.

So, what are the details that make you happy?? And of course, what concerts have you attended lately? I'd love to know where my fellow-bloggers and readers had a great time!

kiss kiss*

Happy Feet In Plastic...

2010-07-01T20:59:00.000+03:00

Dear readers,
Plastic shoes are no big news any more.You probably own one or more and even if you don't, you see them all around you, on shop windows and on other girls's feet. What you may not be aware of, is the positive energy a pair of cute, bright-coloured, plastic shoes or flip flops can transmit you, as soon as you put them on. At least, that's what's happening to me. Don't ask why, it's probably the summer spirit they carry that makes my day on a permanent basis.
The following two are my beloved pairs: one old, one new, one casual, one more formal, both comfy, both colourful, both making me smile like a child (could it be that they strongly remind me of my Barbie shoes, that i used to buy like a maniac, during elementary school, so that my Barbie always wore the latest Barbie trends...who knows? )

The oldies...bought on sales for 15 euros last summer, took me everywhere during vacation, climbed hills on them, walked for hours on them, danced my ass out on them, i'm telling you, they never betrayed me. not once. The firm is called ''S885'' and they are designed by Mr. Vintage, whose interviews you can find in this month's Greek Glamour and Lucky Magazines. The combination of bright colors and imaginative designs is what makes his shoes so special and popular. Photo taken during vacation at Santorini island, good, old days...!

OK, that is called love at first sight. This pair of Melissa shoes was spotted by me about 6 months ago in an Athens store, but i was too hesitant to give more than 60 euros for a plastic pair of pumps that was also high-heeled. Means, not quite my comfort zone. Literally. But they never left my head, they represented the perfect pair of Melissa i had seen so far. So when i saw them for 35 euros on my size on yoox.com, there were no second thoughts: bought, bought and bought!

They arrived today and they are absolutely great!! Comfortable, stylish, in a lovely hue of green. Can't wait to style them up and show them to you in a complete outfit. Until then, take another look from another angle..

I'm actually thinking to keep them for winter too. I kind of like the idea of wearing them with opaque tights, cute dresses and scarves. Such an excitement just for a pair of shoes, right?

So, what's your wardrobe item that you can't get enough of? Can't wait to hear your thoughts!

kiss kiss*

Tribute to an eternal style icon...

2010-06-17T23:04:00.003+03:00

...is what the Victoria&Albert Museum of London has been displaying from the 17th of April to the 26th of September. And which american actress could possibly represent such a title better than Grace Kelly? Unfortunately, i won't be able to attend this unique exhibition, but if, by any chance, anyone of you out there will be visiting London within the next 3 months, first of all, give my greetings to my beloved city and, second, do not loose for any reason the chance to explore Grace Kelly's wardrobe.
Aside from anything else, this exhibition is trying to present the evolution of her style, connected with the changes in her career and life, by dividing the exhibits into 4 sections, in accordance with the 4 most significant periods of Grace Kelly's life : actress, bride, princess, enduring icon.

Below, follow few lines inspired by the information provided over at V&A's webpage about this exhibition, about Grace Kelly's style,how it evolved through time and how it was influenced by the fact that she became princess of Monaco:
What we usually recall from Grace Kelly is her beauty and elegance. She became famous as an actress in the 1950s, starring in films by Hitchcock and others. Young Grace seemed to combine both qualities: wholesome, but distinctly glamorous at the same time. As time went by, she became a symbol of the classic, understated look that she wore both on and off screen. She became known for her impeccable dress sense. Both on and off screen, Grace Kelly was an ambassador for simple American fashions, such as shirtwaist dresses and casual shirts and trousers.She also owned several understated elegant evening gowns for attending special events. Her classic clothes were promoted as 'the Grace Kelly look' by retailers, and fans emulated her immaculate grooming and sense of style. This exhibition explores, through her surviving clothes, the story of her transformation from Hollywood actress to a princess of one of Europe's oldest royal families. It features her film costumes, the much-publicised dresses made for her trousseau and wedding, and the French haute couture - a different kind of costume - that she required for her subsequent role as Princess of Monaco. As a Princess, she understood the need for clothes that made sense of her new position. Grace Kelly patronised the grand couture houses of Paris and she became especially associated with the French fashion house Christian Dior, which supplied her with many clothes that were suitably formal, but modern and eye-catching. Princess Grace remained faithful to the classic, streamlined style she had favoured as an actress. But she adapted it to the changing silhouette of the 1960s and 1970s, developing a suave look incorporating fine jewellery and elaborate hairstyles, Nearly 30 years on, the elegance Grace Kelly captured in her public image has enshrined her as a style icon. She remains very much remembered and admired today.

So, i guess the above text spoke for itself, i could not possibly add anything more. I'm sad to say i cannot provide a personal review, but if it helps somehow, friends of mine who visited London last week, didn't manage to visit it, due to the endless queues..It sounds worth it, doesn't it...?

So what are your thoughts over style icons of the 40s,50s and 60s, such as Grace Kelly, that are still remembered and copied by millions of women from around the world? How is it possible that today's ''fashion icons'' are so easily played-out and these ladies are still showing us the way...?

(all photos and part of the text are taken from http://www.vam.ac.uk/index.)

From baby.......to babe.....!

2010-06-08T23:16:00.000+03:00

Dear readers,

There's only one obvious answer to this statement....YEAH RIGHT!! You will be wondering of course who am i talking about.....Myself of course, who else?? Seriously now, i kinda got published on a column that i really love on a blog that i also like very-very much!! Lovely Rebecca from the clothes horse was kind enough to publish the pics that i sent her, along with those of other fellow-bloggers and she was also sweet enough to send me a very cute mail, thanking me and informing me about the upcoming post. And thank God she did, as i would have never noticed...You can check it out here, but, as i am very impatient, here are the two pics that i chose, one from childhood and one from nowadays...

First of all, i do not like that much the ''grown-up'' pic, but i thought ''since i'm sending a photo all the way to the other side of the Atlantic, why not include a beautiful landscape in it? We're in the middle of a crisis, be a patriot, help the tourism''. You know...everyday thoughts..! Despite the second pic, the first one is one of my favourites...i love my outfit...seriously...how weird is that?? I believe it's a combination i could do today, as well(excluding the hair fascinator...oh dear..!). And the posing...well, i never actually got rid of that, as you can see...! But, do tell, if this is not a cute little girl then what is she(always the first one, let the second and her awful hair alone please!)?? After having flattered my self to death, i now leave you to go back to my delightful books..

Hasta la proxima vez...!

P.S. My dearest Miss Kataifi thank u for noticing and telling me about it...you are so sweet!

Into the star's closet...

2010-06-08T02:04:00.001+03:00

...or, ''Today I'm Wearing...'', as its official name is, is a very interesting column in British Vogue, to which i'm absolutely addicted lately. So what's the concept? Every day for one month, one different female celebrity is taking and uploading photos of her outfits...just like many bloggers do!
This month it's all about Julia Restoin-Roitfeld, which might ring a bell for you, if you remember ''Accessorize's'' autumn-winter 2008 collection with an ''up-town new york girl'' concept.

Remember now?

Truth is, do not expect to come across only high street fashion clothing, but the inspiration and the style ideas that an outfit can give us, remain the same! The first to participate in this column was my beloved Alexa Chung, whose style i appreciate very much(how serious is that statement?) and i loved the fact that i could see her every-day choices.

Nevertheless, what i realized through this everyday read is this : Fellow fashion bloggers, we probably(or should i say definitely) do it better! And you know why? Cause, no stylist lies behind our outfits, nor do haute-couture brands who send us little ''gifts'' to promote.

So keep up your beautiful outfits that i enjoy so and just have an open eye for ideas...!

After all, it's all about creativity and inspiration...

Alors....inspirez-moi s'il vous plait!!

I promise i'll be your favorite tee...

2010-05-31T23:29:00.002+03:00

Dear readers,

The title of this post seems to express exactly what some super cute t-shirts kept whispering me as i was checking out net-a-porter's topwear....No, no, madness is not the issue here! The issue is called ''so much to study that shopping has become a strictly web experience''...yeah, so fascinating! Studying night'n'day for the exams with such a hot weather seems like a blessing, doesn't it..?

Nevertheless, even window/screen shopping can be fun, if you bump into such lovely pieces, in quite reasonable prices, as well...And i have to admit, i cannot think of anything more comfortable and pretty than a well made tee..I won't tell more, check them out....aren't they awesome??

Marc by Marc Jacobs

Acne

Paul & Joe Sister

Christopher Kane

K by Karl Lagerfeld

Marc by Marc Jacobs

Red Valentino

Sonia by Sonia Rykiel

See by Chloe

Sass & Bide

Red Valentino (love the ruffled sleeves..)

Marc by Marc Jacobs(once more, but Marc is very tee-inspired, huh?)

Red Valentino(did i hear anyone complaining? i'm sorry, they're stunning!)

Sonia by Sonia Rykiel

So, do you blame me for taking such creative breaks from studying and melting in front of the screen?? Cause i'm telling you, i want them all!

Offers and gifts accepted with gratitude...!!

Childhood memories every Friday...

2010-05-21T23:06:00.000+03:00

...is what Rebecca, the clothes horse, started to do a few weeks ago and it seems that it's becoming a tradition! So what's the thing? It all begun with this post, where Rebecca chose some pics from when she was a baby and, later on, she decided to ask some fellow bloggers to send her some of theirs, which led to this post, with super-cute baby photos.That was followed by her suggestion to be e-mailed by her readers with their favorite baby and nowadays pics, so as to see the differences. the reaction was massive and led to this last post, and i gotta tell you...i sent mine too and i cannot wait to see them posted..so if you wish, you could even send your own pics, which you will see published, sooner or later. i love this game!!

P.S. tomorrow is the big day, the spanish exams day...After that, i should have some free time to post more stuff so...stay tuned!!

Venezia....I just can't get enough...

2010-05-17T17:33:00.000+03:00

Dear readers,

Wandering around Italy is not over. At least, not yet. Cause, I've got to show you one of my beloved european cities and one of the most amazing places to visit ever. I'm telling you, if i were to write a guidebook with the places you should definitely visit in your life, Venice would easily be on top 3. As for the rumors about stinking canals or way too overpriced cruises with a ''gondola'', trust me, it's all lie! This city is d-r-e-a-m-y....

Grand Canal

Piazza San Marco

Ponte di Rialto

Santa Maria della Salute

Venice by night

Night view from the Rialto Bridge

Leaving Venice...

(..and those are the new vintage sunglasses from Cavalli e Nastri..)

P.S. Excuse my absence, huge amount of studying and learning and writing...university exams, together with spanish exams for the degree equals...no free time at all!! For those of you who share the same joy..take heart and keep up the good work, we'll make it in the end!

We love....Cavalli e Nastri...

2010-05-10T00:23:00.000+03:00

Dear readers,
When in Milan, its inevitable to be super-impressed by the variety of interesting stores you bump into while taking a simple walk in the city. That's exactly what happened with me and ''Cavalli e Nastri'', a thrift store at the Brera area. I'm telling you, it was love at first sight...! And it became one of the major reasons, for which i wish i could live permanently in this city.
''Cavalli e Nastri'' is a small chain-store company, with three stores in the heart of Milan, each one providing different kind of products. If you wish to find vintage and new women's clothing, shoes and accessories, you should head to Via Brera 2, if you're looking for men's vintage and furniture, you should go to Via Gian Giacomo Mora 12, while, if you're interested in vintage in general, you should visit the store in Via Gian Giacomo Mora 3.Photos are from the first address.

Outside the store @ Brera

Awesome vitrine, including Breakfast at Tiffany's poster(love it already, huh?)

The red section

The green section

The pastels section(yes, that dress is officially an object of desire)

The blue&black section

Object of desire no.2

The yellow&orange section

Florals&prints

Handbags, hats, luggage

Accessories

Sunglasses

Cute mini 60's dress

Object of desire no.3

Dreamy outfit

The whole interior of the place

So what's different about this place?
First of all, it is by far the one and only second-hand shop i entered, that did not smell like a cellar. You might call me weird, but i appreciated that very much! Additionally, it contains a great selection of vintage products, some of them signature pieces, in amazing prices. But the most important thing is that, no matter what the firm is, all of the things you'll come across in ''Cavalli e Nastri'' are selected with great taste, are dated by decade and are in excellent condition.
Personally, i fell in love with the sunglasses (actually, i bought myself one pair of those from the 80's, for 50 euros!), the cute 50's and 60's dresses, the handbags and the super cute foulards and scarfs from Hermes, Gucci and Chanel.
So, if you visit Milan, do not forget to step by this vintage heaven, you will definitely leave with a wonderful purchase.

Website:www.cavallienastri.com
Facebook fan page:http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Milano/CAVALLI-E-NASTRI/321234255671?ref=ts

Milan is (not only) for shoppers...

2010-05-06T01:32:00.000+03:00

Dear readers,

the title of this post, excluding the phrase inside the parenthesis, sums up , more or less, the image i used to have about the city of Milan. Having heard from many-many people that it is the less interesting and more industrialized place in Italy, i was in a totally skeptical mood, ready to arrive, explore and disapprove this city.

On the other hand, the entire title of this post, maybe ''sprinkled'' with more flattering words, is what i am now thinking about Milan, perhaps the most misunderstood city ever.

So i won't daze you with exhausting infos over what to see as a common tourist, which is, anyway, quite a lot, but i shall let the pictures tell their own story and i will give only the details of the ''not-to-be-missed'' places.

Of course, i could not leave unannotated the awesome market of Milan and, below, you will see some of the most interesting stores, together with some of my outfits, while being there.(please don't be too critical, i had to be creative with a few pieces, so as to have a light suitcase).

THE CITY...

Duomo di Milano

On the Piazza di Duomo

Near the Piazza di Duomo

Entering the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Inside the Galleria

Flower bomb

Via Madonnina, Brera

Detail from the garden of the ''Pinacoteca di Brera''

Around the Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore

Detail of a beautiful house near the Universita

The Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore

Delicious flower-shaped ''gelato italiano''

Yummy, yummy place

Romantic spot in the night at Colonne di San Lorenzo

Amazing street art at Colonne di San Lorenzo

THE MARKET...

Lovely glove store at Via della Spiga

Prada (officially in love with those dresses)

Alexander McQueen @ Via Montenapoleone
(shitty picture, i know..but it was raining cats and dogs at that very moment..)

Yves Saint-Laurent @ Via Montenapoleone

Celine @ Via Montenapoleone

Alberta Ferretti @ Via Montenapoleone

Versace @ Via Montenapoleone

Blumarine kids @ Via Montenapoleone

(cutest shop window ever!!)

Coca-cola bottles, designed by Etro, Missoni, Marni,

Alberta Ferretti @ ''La Rinascente''

THE OUTFITS...

( Ok, that is an awful picture, taken during my first day in Milan, right after the flight, and i was so tired. So do not pay attention to the expression, neither to the fact that i look like a whale.) What i am wearing...

Dress, Attrattivo. Belt, Accessorize. Blouse, no idea. Tights, Calzedonia. Shoes, no idea. Gabardine, H&M. Bag, Nine West, Sunglasses, Ray-Ban.

Day 2 @ Milan...What i am wearing...

Dress, Soul Rebel. Cardigan, Zara. Belt, H&M. Tights, Calzedonia. Necklace and bangles, Accessorize. Shoes, no idea. Bag, H&M. Gabardine, BSB. Scarf, Doca.

Day 3 @ Milan...What i am wearing...

Dress, Pull and Bear. Scarf, vintage. Tights, Calzedonia. Boots, gift. Gabardine, H&M. Bag, Nine West.

Guest star...Chrysanthi..!

Truth is, i couldn't get pictures of me alone, standing and posing correctly, so as to enable you to see exactly what i wore, so you get to see other people too. But, anyhow, isn't she a cutie? ;))

Common suspect..wanted...??

2010-05-05T03:06:00.000+03:00

Dear readers,
It's been almost two weeks without making a single post and i'm telling you...i really did miss it and you together! But this absence was not for no reason, as i was out and about and more precisely...
i was ''being Italian'' for the past two weeks and i can't get myself together ever since then!!
They say every trip is a priceless gift you offer yourself and i can't help but agree and consider my trips some of the most important things I've done in my life so far.
So the upcoming posts will be all about Italy and its amazing cities, people, lifestyle, shops, museums, landscape, architecture, fashion etc.
I have got to tell you that, before arriving there, i was pretty sure i would meet something too familiar to Greece, to be interesting enough..but, to my huge surprise, this country was full of new things to see and experience.
So, i have to admit that i have come back a bit more full as a personality, a bit more interested in new and exciting things, a bit more happy for what i have seen and done until today and a bit more grateful for all the opportunities I've been given in life so far.
What i mean is seize the day, live your life, travel the world if you can, but make sure to travel with your mind to the most exciting places, because imagination and hope is what stays inside us and makes us happy, in the end of the day. And since we are being through some tough days lately in Greece, don't let go on your dreams and hopes.
Stay tuned for more...!

Throw a glance at the sun-glass...

2010-04-17T16:05:00.000+03:00

Dear readers,
As summer approaches, there's an accessory, without which, it's hard to make it through the day, with the glaring sun, hanging over your head (ok, let me refrase that, in Greece you'll need a pair of those all year long) . The good thing is, it's one of the most stylish and temporal things you can treat yourself into..so it's a common secret that one pair of sunglasses is never enough..!
The S/S 2010 collections of eyewear, had it all..every possible shape, design, color, embellishment...Below i present you some representative models from several fashion houses and companies, which, i consider to be, the best or the most characteristic, of what's out there this summer.Take a look...!

...Balenciaga...

...Chloe...

...Bottega Veneta...

...D&G...

...Burberry...

...Dior...

...Bulgari...

...Celine...

...Cesare Paciotti...

...Marc Jacobs...

...Ray-ban...

all photos are taken from otticanet.com

As you can see, there's only one rule in this S/S's eyewear : no rules at all!! I'm very pleased with the re-appearance of the retro style, i would love to come across girls wearing sunglasses like the dior ones, looking like ''Hitchcock's ladies''. As for the metallic ones, i do not want to say a single word about them, i find them repulsive, but they are ''kind of'' back..!

In case you wonder, i would go for the ray-bans, since i love their playful style and colours....but...if i had the opportunity to invest in a very good pair of sunnies, i would definitely choose the first pair from the Balenciaga pieces...i believe it's a masterpiece...the combination of colours is fantastic...its an object of desire...that's for sure..!

So which ones would you choose from the above and why?? Any suggestions, any trend in the eyewear that's not included above and you are fond of?

i would love to hear your opinions and comments..

Inspirational movie figures....Amelie Poulain...

2010-04-13T15:11:00.000+03:00

Dear readers,
It's been more than 8 years that this weird (according to many) french movie appeared for the first time in cinemas and theatres and, surprisingly enough, it, still, is being talked about. It is one of those movies that you either love or leave.
So what is it about Amelie Poulain anyway...?

Take a look at her face, that innocent smile of hers, those childish eyes, the cute haircut and her style, that consists mainly of skirts, floral dresses and pumps and you will realize that this is actually a small girl, trapped into a woman's body, trying to seize the day and make her dreams come true...and guess what, she reaches her goal and lives happily ever after at the picturesque Montmartre, in Paris, with her charming French man...(of course she does,it is a movie after all).
So, i cannot help but wonder....what did we all girls around the world see in that movie, in that particular, shy yet brave, girl and fell in love with it...like...forever??

My point is...we all found a part of ourselves into that young lady...the innocence, the wild imagination that guides her life, the day-dreaming, but also the courage to go for everything she wishes, to make her dreams come true....personally, i see all those in me, and that is what excited me the most...! Plus, who wouldn't wish to live in Montmartre, that dreamy neighborhood of Paris, where bohemian lifestyle rules and artists circle around its wonderful streets..??

Oh, of course i shouldn't forget her unique style, so Parisian and girly, yet so sophisticated..

I would probably add some heels between all her flats, or maybe a shorter, still girly, skirt..but...i am no Amelie myself...at least not entirely...;-))

So what is your point of view over this phenomenal heroine? love her or despise her??

what is common between your wardrobe and hers?? i'd love to learn your thoughts.

THIS IS IT!

2010-04-13T03:22:00.000+03:00

After a long long time of following several blogs and reading daily their updates(mostly fashion blogs, still interested in any kind) , i've decided to create my own, in order to express myself over aaaaalll those subjects that i keep reading with such a passionate interest!
It's even hard to count the inspiring blogs that led me to this one, but i have to mention some of the greeks, from which i began...the retro-queen nina malvada, the hilarious queen bee, the amazing thalia, the super cute lopi,and so many others, that made me follow them daily, with their amazing posts!
So, thank u girls for showing me a new world of sharing news, ideas and interests!!
Through this blog, i will be posting anything new and exciting i discover, whilst i am expecting your opinions and views on every post!!
Sooooo nice to meet you!!! :)))))