"Rise & Fall of a Phoenix"

These beautiful one-of-a-kind garments were designed by Leyla Salvade (pictured). Using fine French silks and empty bullet casings found in the dessert of Phoenix, Arizona, Leyla illustrates an inspiration and tells the story of "The Rise and Fall of a Phoenix" -- influenced by the biblical story of the Tower of Babel.  

Leyla is a multifaceted artist who recently graduated from Central Saint Martin's College in London, with a degree in Fashion Textiles.  Currently, Leyla is preparing to embark on her next adventure in Los Angeles, CA where she will further her creative talents at FIDM and pursue a career in Event Planning and Public Relations.  To see more of Leyla's work and keep up with her as she begins her latest journey visit her website: http://www.leylasalvade.com.  

Thank you Leyla for sharing your work and story with us! ♥

GISELE BUNDCHEN FOR VOGUE TURKEY

*Image Credit: glamcheck.com, Vogue Turkey (March 2011)

oui

These Christian Dior rings from the Oui collection are such a wonderful twist on a classic engagement or wedding ring! So exquisitely playful, how could you say non?

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID BYUN

This David Byun editorial for W Asia makes a statement about the detrimental effects of environmental conscienceless.  The model, Viktoriya Sansonkina carries a lovely yellow rose amongst the grim backdrop in each shot.  The dainty fashion and delicate rose are a stark contrast to the dark grungy setting illustrating

HOW CHARMING!

Charm bracelets are such a classic statement piece and I'm thrilled that some of my favorite labels are carrying the look! They are hot hot hot right now! It is a guilt-free 'trend' to purchase because charm bracelets are definitely a wardrobe staple. Every girl should get one at sooome point! So go ahead, splurge on this item; you'll be using it over and over again! 

[Great Beauty] Advice

HOUSE OF HARLOW 1960

Nichole Richie's iconic boho style carries through to her fashion-forward accessory line, House of Harlow 1960.  From the great cocktail rings and fun layering necklaces to the bold tasseled eyeglasses, there is something in this collection for every fashionista! Currently I am totally coveting those leopard 'Natalia' booties -- they have my name written all over them (seriously!).  

*Image Credits: instyle.com,  fashboulevard.com, millionlooks.com

DECOR

I've been taking advantage of having Sex and The City 2 on HBO and just letting it play on repeat for some outfit inspiration (yes, I said "outfit inspiration")! The whole film is filled with gorgeous fashions but after watching it several times, I cannot decide what's better: the clothes or the decor!? The rooms at

Mesi Jilly

I know, I know..I'm dragging my heels to fall but I couldn't pass up sharing these gorgeous rings comprised of precious stones and seashells by Austrian jewelry designer Mesi Jilly.  Her beautiful beachy designs are the perfect summer statement! Whether you're on the beach or just enjoying a summer brunch in the city, this is a definite must before summer ends. 

Franz Ackermann

Mental Map: Evasion V 

1996 - Acrylic on Canvas

These works are by contemporary German painter, Franz Ackermann.  Ackermann's art is marked by

bright vibrant color schemes and illustrative abstractions -- a sort of ironic contrast to the underlying cynism he conveys about globalisation and chaos in the modern world. The paintings belong to the Saatchi Gallery in London and are not currenly for sale.

Estos cuadros son del pintor Alemán, Franz Ackermann.  El arte de Arckermann se distingue por sus colores vibrantes y abstracciones ilustrativos -- un contraste irónico al cinismo subyacente que el transmite acerca de la globalización y el caos del mundo hoy en día. Las obras son parte del Saatchi Gallery en Londres y actualmente no están de venta.

Mental Map: Evasion VI

1996 - Acrylic on Canvas

 Helicopter XVI (on the balcony)

2001 - Oil on Canvas

Zooropa 

2001 - Oil on Canvas

 The Secret Tunnel

1999 - Oil on Canvas

New Building

1999 - Oil on Canvas

*Image Credit: www.saatchi-gallery.co.uk/artists/franz_ackermann.htm 

Brights!

It's been so dull out all day thanks to Irene. So, it's time to brighten up the mood! From sunglasses to coats, these vibrant shades are popping up everywhere! Stock up on bright colors and sport them year around like these fashion icons.

OR

Use them at home..

*image credits: WhoWhatWear, Sincerely Jules, The Simply Luxurious Life, Karla's Closet, GuiseppeZanotti.com, theblondesalad.com, cupcakesandcashmere.com,  houzz.com

Arm Candy

Great accessories can really make an outfit - especially an arm (or two) full of bracelets! The fun thing about arm candy is the variety. You can mix all sorts of styles! My favorite looks are those anchored with a nice watch and elevated with some tasteful high/low mixing. The other thing I love about bracelets is that they generally each have a story -- they make great gifts and memorable souvenirs from past travels. This week I'll definitely be wearing my "Irene" bracelets which I'll be working on all weekend long as I weather this storm!  

PS. how fabulous is that nail ring in the first picture?! find it at bijulesnyc.

Accesorios realmente pueden crear un outfit - Especialmente, un brazo (o dos) vestido en pulseras! Lo divertido del arm candy es la variedad.  Puedes combinar todo tipo de estilos! Mis looks favoritos son los que empiezan con un buen reloj y se terminan con una mezcla de brazaletes.  Lo otro que me encanta de las pulseras es que generalmente cada una tiene historia -- son excelente regalos y hacen lindos recuerdos de viajes anteriores.  Esta semana estaré usando mis pulseras de "Irene" las cuales voy a crear durante el fin de semana mientras espero que pase esta tormenta!

PD. que fabuloso anillo de uña el de la primera foto!! buscalo aqui.

*Image Credits: Refinery29.com, BlondeSalad.com, FashionableDisorientation.blogspot.com, SincerelyJules.com, Everyonelovesfashion.blogspot.com, becauseimaddicted.net

BURNING LOVE.

Photograph from Harper's Bazaar (1964), by Jeanloup Sieff.

*Image Credit: pacific-standard.blogspot.com

More than tempting. VOGUE ESPAÑA.