Photograper Malgorzata Maj ~ Sarachmet

Malgorzata Maj is a Polish photographer (working under the business name Sarachmet) whose work I've long admired.  Her mystical, romantic photos have graced book covers, magazines, and other publications worldwide. Find her website here.

Paris Couture Week At The Grand Trianon

As a finale to Paris Fall 2011 Couture Fashion Week  there was a cocktail party and another sort of fashion show in the Grand Trianon at Versailles. Museum curator Olivier Salliard created an exhibit exploring the influence of 18th century style on contemporary designers. The exquisite architecture and beautiful details of the Grand Trianon make a stunning setting for the gorgeous couture fashion

A Versailles cocktail party...a party like no other.The chandeliers, the flowers, the art work, the architecture, it could only be Versailles.

From Christian Dior, this sumptuous red dress could easily have been worn by Madame de Pompadour.

A Versailles-esque group from 1980s Chanel by Karl Lagerfeld.

From the 1998 collection of John Paul Gaultier, something Marie Antoinette could wear when she was feeling a bit Punk.

This group is from Vivienne Westwood and Alexander McQueen. The 18th century looks comfortable in the 21st.

What would Marie Antoinette wear? Maybe something from Vivienne Westwood. It works.

A little something  worn at Versailles circa 1785.

The promotional poster for the event. I want to go.

Totes & Bags

How do you like to tote your stuff for summer?  As a self-proclaimed "bag lady", I love creative ones, and (natch) handmade is the only way to go.  Below are some favorite Etsy finds, with links to buy if you're as smitten as I am!

Vintage Junky Style ~ Etsy

 

Dahlia Handbags ~  Etsy

Cayenne Peppy Bags ~ Etsy

Janine King Designs ~ Etsy

Pua Wear ~ Etsy

Sew Trendy ~ Etsy

Kiss a Fat Dog ~ Etsy

ErikaPeach ~ Etsy

Inspiration Is Everywhere

I recently did some vintage shopping (hunting) at Junque, located in a building which was part of the International Shoe Company in St Louis. Junque is always filled with treasures from architectural elements to decorative items. It is fascinating. What is also fascinating is  the complex of buildings in the area, some are in use some are not. 

 The building, constructed in the 1860s, was originally part of the Lemp Brewery. International Shoe purchased it in 1922. The building is intact and houses a few small businesses.

 The combination of the colors on the bricks, the blue/green shade of paint on the window and door trim and the grey stone details is wonderful. You never know where you will find you next favorite color palette.

 I wasn't sure what was through this doorway but I had to go in.

 Just inside was this amazing metal spiral staircase.

 These metal cogs. wheels and whatever were on the ground outside of the shop.

 Color, texture, pattern is everywhere.

 A small portion of architectural elements to be found at Junque.

 This piece was once part of a conveyor belt. It has such a great sculptural look. Maybe next it will be a wall hanging.

New Jewelry

Had such a great time creating this line...romantic and summery!  Available for sale on my website. I hope everyone had a lovely weekend!  xx ~Barbara