Fantasy Shopping: The New Season

Even though I still haven't decided what kind of girl would I like to become when the new season approaches, there are definitely some pieces I can see myself rocking this fall. Well, everyone knows that in terms of fashion, it's just never too early to plan ahead! 

1. Beige Tweed Contrast Sleeve Coat - Warehouse/ 2. Suede Lace-up Ankle Boots - Tod's/ 3. Raspberry Inset Collar Top - Dorothy Perkins/ 4. Gold Jacquard Mini Skirt - Topshop/ 5. Lace T-Shirt - MANGO/ 6. Stone Lurex Curve Hem Sweater - Wallis/ 7. Biker Bouclé Jacket - MANGO/ 8. Black and White Boucle Dress - Miss Selfridge/ 9. Snake Metal Buckle Belt - Warehouse/ 10. Bayswater Textured-leather Bag - Mulberry/ 11. Pleated Leather Skirt - Burberry Brit/ 12. Leather Ankle Boots - MANGO

The Power

If there's any woman in the world still not convinced by the ultimate power of accessorizing, then I'd strongly advise her to take a proper look at the pictures below. I believe we're all agreed that without some vintage-inspired pieces applied all over, this nude outfit would surely be devoid of any zest... Nods of approval? Thought so!

Leather Clutch - Fossil/ Top & Leather Belt - Zara/ Nude Pants - Massimo Dutti/ Shades - New Yorker

Make it quick!

As a result of my recent transition into an employed woman, I seem to be missing out on the fun activities which used to absorb me on regular basis. It has, in particular, saddened me to realize that those precious moments, when I could leisurely wander around the kitchen, would now be reserved for the weekends only... Considering all other things I have to take care of over the two short days, I'm actually left with an amount of time sufficient for trying out some really quick recipes, like this classic Caprese Salad. The funny thing is that, after being focused mainly on culinary challenges for so long, nowadays I just can't believe how tasty can be a combination of three simple ingredients!

Insalata Caprese:

3 vine-ripe tomatoes, cut into thick slices

250g fresh mozzarella, sliced

a bunch of fresh basil leaves

Extra-virgin olive oil

Coarse salt

Freshly ground black pepper

Arrange alternating slices of tomatoes and mozzarella on a large, shallow platter. Season with salt and pepper and drizzle with some olive oil. Scatter the basil leaves all over the ready salad. Serve immediately with a thick slice of rustic style bread!

Turn back time: Swimwear through the decades

Despite the fact that it demands very little material, the swimsuit has long been a prominent part of summer fashion. Even during the roaring 1920s, women were daring to show off their figures in the swimsuit trends of the moment. In the 50s, Marilyn Monroe boosted her status as a sex symbol with her beach fashion choices – her iconic white swimsuit look perfectly complementing her famous curves and blonde bombshell hair-do. Fast forward to all the kitsch of the 80s, when the bikini line just kept getting higher and higher. It was a look that certainly required more brutal waxing techniques than ever before! Worn by the stars of classic 80s shows like Miami Vice and the hottest supermodel of the time Elle Macpherson, it was a more risky take on swimwear fashion. The high leg trend continued into the 1990s thanks to the hit US TV series Baywatch. Who can forget those opening sequences featuring Pamela Anderson and the rest of the cast decked out in red?

In a celebration of all that’s great about swimwear, the Resort collection at Very features a diverse range of styles inspired by different eras. However, in addition for 2012, this year’s Very Swimsuits have also been designed with the latest trends in mind. The floral print reigns supreme, but there are also more classic choices perfect for a swim at the gym or relaxation session in the jacuzzi.

Around the world

Ever since my first foreign trip, I seem to have regularly fantasized about various places I'd be excited to call home one day. All that temporary fascination with faraway towns and cities was always, in a great measure, brought about by movie premieres of the season. No wonder there was the time when I imagined myself pacing the streets of New York like Carrie Bradshaw, or simply tasting a home-made olive oil under the Tuscan sun. Not to mention the unusual Berlin phase, right after I'd developed a serious crush on one of the German film actors... But if I was to take another pick these days, not only would it be free of any cinematographic connotations, but also in perfect keeping with my current sartorial cravings... And in that case, I'm pretty sure Los Angeles and Miami are the only right spots to show off a whopping sequin obsession!

Sequined Top - Dorothy Perkins/ Waxed-Effect Trousers - Zara/ Shoes - Halle Berry for 5th Avenue/ Leather Clutch - Vintage

Fantasy Shopping: Yellow

In my fashion-dreams, I'm always the kind of girl whose complexion is unconditionally loved by the entire range of bright colours. In reality, though, I'm on the never-ending hunt for at least one shade that won't make me look ridiculous... So could yellow be a right match for me? Fingers crossed!

1. Yellow Cornelli Collar Dress - Miss Selfridge/ 2. XL Clutch - Zara/ 3. HAWLEY Suede Espadrille Wedges - ASOS/ 4. Lemon Daisy Lace Tee - Dorothy Perkins/ 5. Sleeveless Blouse - Oasis/ 6. Bag - H&M/ 7. Linen Dress - Mango/ 8. Drawstring Skirt - Topshop/ 9. Double Breasted Tweed Blazer - Girl.By Band Of Outsiders/ 10. The Legging Neon Yellow - Rag & Bone

All in a day's work

Pretty unusual of me to post twice in the same week, but I'm just trying to be a good girl as long as it's possible. Clock's ticking and I might soon become a really busy bee, with no time for fashion antics! Good for me, a bit worse for the blog... There's actually one thing I'm trying to figure out at the moment: how do working girls squeeze in some picture shooting in their daily schedule?!

Pants & Belt - Zara/ Necklace - Reserved/ Striped Top - H&M/ Suede Heels - TkMaxx/ Leather Bag - Marta Ponti

Bits and pieces

It already seems like kind of a monthly tradition for me to showcase things which I find entertaining at the particular time of my life. I know that the whole idea is actually borrowed from other bloggers, but I've come to love it as if it was my own, and usually just can't wait to share with you a brand new batch of not-so-fashion related pictures!

Bright-colored necklace + matching nail polish = just the right amount of colour to spice up all the monochromatic outfits I usually wear...

You've got to excuse me for posting so many blossom pictures, but having been born in May, I've somehow always felt strongly attached to all kind of flowers ... On the other hand, how could anyone remain insensible to the charm of blooming apple trees?!

The shoes! No further explanation needed if you've got a chance to read one of my previous posts...

Classic Vanilla Cupcakes got a bit of summer-ish makeover...The foolproof recipe below!

All night partying must have left this lady quite exhausted... She came back home at six in the morning! I've never meant to become a strict parent, but  if it happens one more time, I'll seriously consider setting a curfew!

Classic Vanilla Cupcakes:

125g unsalted butter

1 1/2 cup sugar

3 eggs

1/2 cup sour cream

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups flour

1 heaping tablespoon cornstarch

a pinch of salt

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature!

Line muffin pans with paper liners. Sift together all of the dry ingredients. In a seperate bowl, cream the butter and sugar on high speed until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, then add the sour cream and vanilla extract. Sift in the flour mixture and mix on low speed only until combined. Fill the cupcake liners to the top. Bake at 180°C for about 25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool before frosting.

Now, I usually stick to my tried & tested Cream Cheese Frosting, but you can follow any recipe that's righ up your alley, or just top them with some freshly whipped cream. As for the final touch, I'm currently all into chocolate dipped strawberries!

Good times

I'd be a liar not to admit how utterly privileged I feel to be capable of doing just about anything that comes to my mind in the morning. As dreadful as the excess me-time might be considered throughout the coldest months, upon the spring's arrival, those extra hours per day become nothing but a true blessing. It is now most acceptable to lose yourself in things that fit into anyone's personal category of relaxation. I'm thinking afternoon strolls, meals savored in the comfort of my beautiful garden, and some decent sunbathing... Well, at least up until my long-anticipated internship finally kicks off!

P.S. Skinnies, a printed t-shirt, and some wedges to spice things up... in other words, my own idea of the comfiest outfit ever! What's yours?

Anubis Print Tee - Mango/ Grey Skinny Jeans & Shades - Camaieu/ Parka - New Look/ Wedges - Oysho/ Ring - Kappahl

Just in case

With my 27th birthday approaching at the speed of sound, I just couldn't resist sharing a list of goodies that I'm secretly hoping to receive next Thursday. I suppose it's not illegal to give a  tiny hint to your friends and family, just in case they're still wondering what would actually make you more than happy...

1. Sweet Splendor Bowl Set - available at Ruche, these ceramic beauties would be a perfect addition to my modest collection of cutesy kitchenware..// 2. Nails in Causing a Stir - Topshop// 3.Celebrating that special day without a giant cake? NO WAY!// 4. Grey Marl Kitten T-shirt from Dorothy Perkins... because there's a cat on it..enough said!// 5. Two tone heels have been on my fashion radar for longer than it's even appropriate to admit...// 6. Lemon Broderie Shirt by Miss Selfridge.. just imagine it with a pair of high-waisted pants!// 7. White Wrap Strap Bracelet Watch - Oasis// 8. Leopard Print Shades - Zara// 9. Even though I'm already a lucky mother of three adorable kittens, a part of me can't help thinking how nice it would be to extend our family just one more time...!// 10. I'm dying for a weekend trip to one of the European cities, seriously, any will do!

The weather issues

Am I the last woman in the world who still insists on wearing a pair of black opaque tights along with  some spring-forward dresses? Apparently... In case you're looking for the reason behind my stubborn habit, just blame it on the weather! I'm not willing to put my pale legs on full display until the thermometer behind my kitchen window registers more than 20°C degrees... And can someone please stop the freaking wind as well?! 

Floral Dress - TkMaxx/ Biker Jacket - Patrizia Pepe/ Satchel Bag - Zara/ Booties - Newly rediscovered oldies... 

Fantasy Shopping: Floral Prints

Actually, this time it's more than just a pure fantasy... I've recently developed a serious crush on just about anything floral printed, so most of the items featured in this post are top 10 of my current wishlist. It's just a matter of days for me to snag'em into my closet! Well, a girl can always hope...

1. Floral Tee - Topshop / 2. Nada Canvas Belt - Pieces / 3. Leather Floral Satchel - ASOS / 4. Floral Lattice Cork Wedge Shoes - New Look / 5. Spring Flowers Trousers by Sister Jane - Topshop / 6. Floral Printed Woven Skirt - Dolce & Gabbana / 7. Printed Scarf - Mulberry / 8. Ivory Floral Print Blouse - Dorothy Perkins / 9. Floral Print Silk Dress - Vionnet / 10. Bartolomea Floral Print Silk Blouse - By Malene Birger

Shine on

I still can't recall what was it that sparked off my huge interest in sequined items... One too many episode of Gossip Girl, an interesting Vogue editorial? Either way, if someone doesn't stop me in time, I'll end up shimmering like a box of Christmas decorations... even though it's actually Easter we're going to celebrate later this week! 

Sequined Coat - Zara/ Embellished Tee - TkMaxx/ Skinnies - Salt Works/ Bag - Marta Ponti/ Geometric Ring - Kappahl 

True colours

In the last few weeks a large part of the blogging world has been completely preoccupied with the pastel craze. At some point even I couldn't help but bow down to the temporary reign of sweet sorbet hues. However, if you take a closer look at all the things surrounding me lately, it becomes evident that for the moment my life is being ruled over by two primary colours: green and yellow! 

My mom's DIY Easter project. If you're not familiar with the quilling technique, check out this site to find out more about it.  Seriously, the possibilities are endless!

First blossoms of our old Forsythia always mark the actual beginning of spring for me.

I had to give up on emerald green pants in order to avoid the slightly embarassing grasshopper look, but then found this cute skirt to be a perfect alternative. (Thanks to my dad for shooting this picture!)

Egg & Spring Onions Spread. One of the easiest and yummiest recipes I've ever known!  

Egg & Spring Onions Spread: 

5 eggs, hard boiled and cooled
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
a small bunch of spring onions, chopped
salt and pepper

Shell eggs and mash them in a bowl. Add rest of the ingredients, season with salt and pepper and stir everything to combine. Serve on a thick slice of your favourite bread!

Great expectations

The very first time I baked a batch of Lemon Bars my whole family was hugely disappointed with the end result. My mom swore to have them envisioned as something light and spongy, whereas the desert I came up with was dense and settled on a crispy, pre-baked crust. Good, but still quite far from everyone's expectations! It wasn't until this past week when at last I managed to find a recipe which has successfully covered for the previous misunderstanding. Commonly known as a Bird's Milk, it's just the kind of treat you should expect from such an ethereal name... And yes, it pretty much keeps up with the pastel trend as well!

Lemon Bird's Milk:

For the sponge cake base:

4 large eggs (whites and yolks seperately)

4 tablespoons flour, sifted with 1/2 tespoon baking powder

4 tablespoons granulated sugar

a small pinch of salt

Line bottom of a 24cm springform pan with a parchment paper.Beat the egg whites with salt and sugar until stiff, then add the egg yolks and mix until fully incorporated. Gently fold the sifted flour into the egg mixture. Bake in the oven preheated to 180°C, until lightly golden. Leave to cool.

For the filling:

1 can unsweetened condensed milk

2 packets lemon flavored gelatin

2 cups of water

Dissolve the flavored gelatin in two cups of boiling water. Let cool to room temperature, then transfer into a large mixing bowl along with the condensed milk, and beat until slightly thickened and frothy. Immediately pour it onto the prepared sponge cake base and smooth the top as evenly as possible. Pop into the firdge for at least an hour, so that it can set completely.

Tip#1 You can decorate it with just about anything that suits your mood, although I'd sincerely recommend something spring-forward!

Tip#2 Bird's Milk can easily be prepared with other gelatin flavours. I already have a strawberry version on my mind, with some fresh fruits arranged on top!

Sharing is caring

It's not really often that I'm given a chance to use this blog for anything else than my self-indulgence, so having received a mail from 31Bits I got instantly sold to the bighearted concept of their organization. Based in Southern California, 31Bits works with wonderful Ugandan women who create jewelry out of recycled paper and some other local materials. By selling these handcrafted products to the international market, 31Bits team is able to provide the artisans with a regular and sustainable income, as well as mutliple educational and development programs that encourage them to rise above poverty. To make things even better, they've recently launched a new Spring Collection, called Chasing Daylight. You can now shop for it with a special 20% discount they're offering to all of my readers throughout the week of this special post. In case my entire ramblings still haven't got you convinced, just check out their latest catalogue available on this site. Let me assure you that it only takes seconds to fall in love with each and every beautiful bead showcased over there!

P.S. To get your 20% discount, simply enter PURSUIT20 at the checkout!The discount code will be valid until Friday, March 30.

Watson Braid Bracelet - Thanks to 31Bits/ Top & Jeans - Zara/ Trench - H&M/ Nail Polish - 500 Peppermint by Rimmel

The voice of temptation

To bare or not to bare: that is the question! The outside temperatures might still be screaming: are you out of your mind?! But the sweetest voice from the bottom of my springtime wardrobe keeps whispering softly: just go for it...

Waxed Effect Trousers & Animal Print Satchel - Zara/ Striped Sweater - F&F/ Nail Polish - 330 Red Obsession by Rimmel

One for the office

Last couple of mornings felt so dreary that I could barely get myself through the usual set of my early riser routines. Just about every breakfast choice seemed bland in flavour, whereas the usual workout would leave me anything but invigorated... If everything goes according to plan, the much-anticipated change of my rather boring schedule will come along with the internship which I've recently been signed up for. After a year spent almost entirely on an extensive job-hunt, nowadays I just can't wait to jump on the bandwagon of hardworking people. Not to mention that I'm really digging the office look... don't you think?

Blazer - Principles/ Top - F&F/ Pants - Mango/ Shoes - Topshop/ Peter-Pan Collar - Dorothy Perkins/ Bag - Zara

Fantasy Shopping: All-metal jewellery

Although most of the time jewellery works as the minor element of my daily outfits, lately I find myself going head over heels for a particular kind of trinkets. Is this the starting point for my personal style evolution? Well,  not necessarily... Here's what I think: with the amazing all-metal trend popping up around the fashion world ,apparently even the greatest minimalist is meant to transform into a magpie!

1. Gold Look Peter Pan Collar - Dorothy Perkins*/ 2. Pack of Two Smooth Double Cuffs - ASOS/ 3. Necklace - H&M/ 4. Brass Beaten Cuff - ASOS/ 5. Silver Smooth Simple Torque Necklace - Miss Selfridge/ 6. Hinged Silver-Plated Ring - Eddie Borgo/ 7. Overlap Curve Ring - Topshop/ 8. Golde Beaten Stack Ring - Miss Selfridge/ 9. Gold Groove Cuff - New Look/ 10. Gold Look Hammered Necklace - River Island/ 11. Oversize Metallic Bracelet - Mango/ 12. Spike 14-karat Gold Stud Earrings - Anita KO/ 13. Hammered Effect Bangle - Mango

* I've already ordered this one, just couldn't resist!

29/02/12: The #1 has just arrived! Probably the cutest necklace I've ever owned... LOVE!

The Bearable Lightness of Dressing

I believe that as a fashion blogger I should have already trained myself to shoot pictures in the most severe weather conditions. Well, it's actually easier said than done... With temperatures dropping as low as -10°C, I couldn't even get myself to pretend the latest photo sessions felt any good to my warmth-craving limbs! The only key to survival lies in some properly applied layers, which don't always make for a stylish ensemble... Luckily, the Siberia-like days are far behind us, so at the moment I'm just more than happy to steer towards some lighter, dressier and less complicated choices...

Tweed Shorts - H&M/ Blazer - Zara/ White Shirt - Reserved/ Silver Collar Brooch - Vintage/ Ring - KappAhl

Cold & colder

It's been now more than two weeks since winter has switched into the frigid mode and I just couldn't be more sick and tired of it! Just when we all thought the whole country would soon be covered in budding flowers, the crazy weather has once again decided to take us for quite a ride... Most of the time I'm literally glued to my hot oven, as baking happens to be the only activity that helps me in maintaining the average temperature of human's body...

Raspberry & Meringue Bars:

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

250g cold butter (cut into cubes)

2 teaspooons baking powder

5 tablespoons powdered sugar

5 egg yolks

2 tablespoons of cold water (only in case the dough seems too dry!)

Combine flour, sugar and baking powder in a large bowl. Using a pastry blender or two knives cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolks and knead for a couple of minutes, so that the dough just comes together. Divide the dough into two balls, cover separately in a plastic wrap and refrigerate for a few hours.

Once it has chilled sufficiently, remove half of the dough from the fridge and grate it into a lightly buttered 33x 20 cm pan. Just make sure to cover the whole bottom thoroughly! Bake in the preheated oven until light golden, then let cool completely.

For the meringue:

5 egg whites

1 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon vanilla sugar

4 tablespoons instant vanilla pudding powder

1/2 cup sunflower oil

2-3 cups frozen raspberries

Beat egg whites until stiff peaks begin to form, then gradually start adding both of the sugars and the vanilla pudding powder, until fully incorporated. Pour in the oil in a steady stream, beating continously. Spoon the prepared mixture on top of the pre-baked crust and spread it evenly. Arrange raspberries on top, pressing them gently into the meringue. Take the remaining ball of dough from the fridge and grate it over the raspberries, until covered. Sprinkle with some granulated sugar and sliced almonds. Pop into the oven and bake until slightly puffed and light brown in colour.

So much for the sales

Is it just me getting a bit fussy about clothes, or perhaps the bygone sale season seriously hasn't brought much excitement into our wardrobes? The vast amount of items I'd been yearning for, turned out to be nothing but a huge pile of unwearable rags...! Oh, where are the times of opulence, when we were constantly torn between paying the house rent and indulging in yet another pair of half-price shoes?!

Biker Jacket - Patrizia Pepe/ Plaid Skirt - Vero Moda/ Turtleneck & Booties -Zara/ Scarf - H&M/ Sunnies - Camaieu

The bright side

When the flu recovery takes longer than anyone would ever expect, my weary mind tends to go on a quest for anything that could possibly speed up the healing process. Here's just a small glimpse at things and moments which helped me to remain cheerful during my extended stay in bed...

A bunch of yellow tulips my parents brought me on my Name Day...

"Effi Briest" by Theodor Fontane. The classic must-read for any hopeless romantic...

Summer-ish desserts in the middle of winter? Yes, please! Scroll down for the yummy Panna Cotta recipe!

Sequined t-shirt from Dorothy Perkins...just another reason to be madly in love with sales!

Panna Cotta with Spiced Cherry Sauce:

300ml heavy whipping cream
250ml cold milk
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 1/2 teaspoon powdered gelatin
1 vanilla pod (split, seeds scraped out)

Place all the ingredients into a pan and bring to a simmer. Stir until the gelatine has dissolved. Take the pan off the heat and remove the vanilla pod. Divide the mixture among four ramekins or cups and leave to cool. Place into the fridge for a couple of hours, or until set.

To serve, run a sharp knife around the edge of each Panna Cotta and unmold onto a serving plate. Drizzle with the cooled cherry sauce.

For the spiced cherry sauce:
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup water
a pinch of cinnamon
50ml cherry liquer
1 cup frozen cherries

Place the sugar, water and a pinch of cinnamon into a pan and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until all the water evaporates and the sugar turns into a golden caramel (no need to stir at this point!). Add the frozen cherries and a splash of cherry liquer. Let it all simmer for a few more minutes, so that the sauce can slightly thicken.

P.S. Huge thanks for all the get-well comments to my previous post! I'm almost fine now, so there's a new outfit coming soon!

Coulda, Woulda, Shoulda

Whenever it sneakily creeps into your house, you're more than sure that the entire problem could have easily been avoided. Perhaps if you'd been wearing a thick woolen cardi along with your barely-there blouse, or if you had taken a bus instead of walking for hours on that rainy day... And why on earth did you even care to go out in the first place?! Well, whatever! Stop reproaching yourself and just come to terms with the most obvious fact: at this time of the year, everyone's meant to catch a flu...sooner or later! And yes, in some cases it might actually get you grounded for a couple of weeks... Just speaking from my experience!

Coated Skinnies & Satchel - Zara/ Tweed Zip-Up Jacket - TkMaxx/ Suede Boots - New Look/ Necklace -Carry

Fantasy Shopping: Candy Colours

The future looks bright for any daring fashionista who's seriously willing to stand out of the monochromatic city streets. Despite shades being now slightly muted, the forthcoming season seems yet again to be all about a variety of colours. And since there are so many we can easily choose from, the following question becomes inevitable: which one shall I go for?!

1. Double-Zip Stretch-Jersey Dress - Diane Von Furstenberg/ 2. Leather Belt - Dolce & Gabbana/ 3. Lime Tie Front Shirt - River Island/ 4. Olivia Paperbag Skirt - Topshop/ 5. Rita Lightweight Leather Jacket - ACNE/ 6. Two-Tone Leather Espadrille Wedge Sandals - Lanvin/ 7. Celandine Yellow Acid Wash Knitted Jumper - Burberry Brit/ 8. MOTO Cornflower Blue Baxter Classic Skinny Jeans - Topshop/ 9. Kiev Silk-Crepe Blouse - J.Crew/ 10. Frosted Perspex Clutch - ASOS/ 11. Green pointed Court Shoes - Dorothy Perkins/ 12. Large Holly Enameled Bangle - Chloé