Do or die Dior

Aloha, Dior! Getting all creative with a fun commercial for their new make-up collection. Love the holiday themed colors, love the playfulness... but I still play Tetris waaaay better ;)! Enjoy the holidays people :)

Mumble, Marni, mumble

The tags of all of your Versace for H&M items have barely been removed, your bank account is painstakingly recovering, and before you know it, H&M is already dropping a new bomb! Marni for H&M.

Marni and H&M will collaborate to launch a collection together, in March of 2012.

Video footage or pictures of the garments are scarce at the moment, but here is already a little peek-a-boo for y'all:

“I wanted to create a true Marni wardrobe by revisiting all our favorite pieces in signature fabrics and prints. As always, I love juxtaposing prints and colors, mixing modern tribal with Bauhaus graphic adding sporty utilitarian elements,” said the Italian designer.
Sure sounds propitious!

This is how you spell OMG

Yesterday the annual Victoria's Secret fashion show aired in the US of A. This is an event marked in every normal guys and girls' calender. If not, I would start to worry, cause those Victoria's Secret angels work it as if the rent is due tomorrow!

Ever since 1995, the American multimillion retailer knows how to paralyze the whole world by the amazingly sexy lingerie that walks down the catwalk on mile high stilts.

There have only been about 150 Angels in total rocking the fantasy like runways, including Tyra Banks, Alessandra Ambrosio, Chanel Iman, Doutzen Kroes, Gisele Bündchen, Adriana Lima, Heidi Klum and many more.
They all come out from behind the screen and take it away! The girls don't only parade the (under)garments, but also a beautiful confidence and spontaneousness. Enough to give you goosebumps!

This year, as usual, many girls counted their belly rolls as they were sitting in the sofa watching the show, and guys regret getting married that soon. Or, like me, this inspired me to get going with my sit-up routine again...

This years' show had a few different themes; Ballet, Super Angels, Passion, Aquatic Angels, I Put A Spell On You, and Pink. All of them were fantastic to look at. The time and effort being put into this show is so recognizable, as every detail of this show is taken care of (aside of the shoe falling off of one of the models).

I am already looking forward for the next show!

Psyched about the Spike

I have been completely, utterly in love with The Lita shoes from Jeffrey Campbell. I have now decided to save every cent from now on, so I can finally purchase them (or dear parents, please take this as a hint with the holiday season coming up)! Even though they are 13 cm high, I have heard it's like walking on clouds.

I have been stalking the shit out of the Lita shoes for months now, and I have finally decided which one of the many designs I want. The Lita Spike.

Good girl gone bad.
Perfection.
Sex on legs.
Cirque du Soleil taken to the street.
If every girl out there would wear them, there would be no more men staring at your tattas but at your Lita's, trust.


You can't find the Lita Spike's in Belgium, so I will have to order them online. I have never ordered something online, but I am ready to pop that cherry properly.

I simply cannot wait to let them walk me. I want to show them the world...they better be ready.

Androgynous voices ruling the world!

What is up with men singing like women these days? I thought a man felt like a complete man once his voice changes and gets deeper once they hit puberty. WRONG.

The pride of a feminine voice is everywhere these days. Justin Bieber winning 2 awards yesterday at the MTV Europe awards shows what kind of musical market we are in these days. Where did the I've-been-smoking-and-drinking-all-my-life-and-I-will-die-as-a-rockstar voice go?!
Most of us women can live with men wearing skinny jeans, and the bullshit story that real men wear pink, but when men sport the high-pitched, suspiciously feminine voice, most women roll their eyes. Deservedly.

Yet, there is one exception to the rule. His name is Nick Pitera. Baby face, check. Talent? Major check. This (she)male is unbelievable! For some, just listen, it might be too harsh too see that a man can effortlessly pull of the male and female voice.

But hey, quiet a compliment for all women, that men just want to be like us- the stronger sex. It's finally coming out! Ha.

Who the hell is Walter?!

I have not been blogging for a whole month... I really don't have a reason why. A lot has been going on, so I shall update!

I recently went to the Rihanna concert in Antwerp with my little cousins. They are big Rihanna fans, so I decided to accompany them since they are too young go to alone. I like Rihanna's music as well, but wouldn't really go to a concert. But I did and it was amazing! Rihanna is such a great performer- the concert was filled with varieties of media, songs, choreography and clothes! Rihanna has got a banging body, an amazing (live!) voice and keeps up with her dance moves on the stage. She came on stage ridiculously late, but that was easily forgotten once she started to sing.


This week I went to the fashion museum in Antwerp, Momu. I have been wanting to go to Momu for so long, and I never took the time for it. But this week we went there with my fashion class, and went to see the exhibition from Walter van Beirendonck, one of the famous Antwerp 6 designers. I was in the happiest of places! My little fashion heart melted seeing his work displayed.

Beirendonck must be on some kind of drugs to be able to create garments like this. Psychedelic fetishes. Old and new. Classical fashion elements combined with futuristic elements. Toys.
No shape, color or idea is too outrageous for the crazy man with the beard. His wide range of inspiration created an exhibition full of surprises. Beirendonck is anything but prude, he makes you blush just by looking at his garments. No shame digitally printing genitalia on pants, or having a window view exposing the whole backside of your bum.
Aside of making you blush, he also made you love struck. There was a big screen showing his fashion shows he did with the clothes on display in the museum. Unbelievable how he can put a new twist on things. Instead of taking stick thin models, and having them play dead on the runway, he took groovy looking men and let them feel the moment by performing some dance moves, being in tune with the music playing, and showing off the garments in a whole different way. Hats off!

I left Momu feeling amazing, and so proud of the talent that this little country has got to offer. Anyone taking a city trip to Antwerp, or lives near, I recommend the Momu to all!

Well, color me happy! There's a sofa in here for two!

Yes, the Adele song may sound like a broken record to some, as it's always on the radio, and on everyone's Itunes. Yet, this attempt to the song is so refreshing. The young girl steals the show! Her notes are not sung pure, but her charisma and the feel for the lyrics she gets, comes across so real and natural.

The duo sitting in their simple mahogany leather sofa with a guitar, creates little Youtube magic. No glitter, no glamour, no retouching, yet still touching :)

Nevermind

Have you maybe noticed that the past few days Nirvana is quiet the hot topic? This is because it's been 20 years since they launched their genius album, Nevermind. The American rock band killed hair metal (aka pop metal or glam metal), and put grunge on the throne.

Nirvana is mostly known for their word wide hit, Smells like teen spirit. This songs made youth feel like it was written for them, and for them only. The way Kurt Cobain could relate his voice to the voice of youth, was unique. Youth went wild, and Nirvana became an overnight sensation. Funny fact is that, Smells like teen spirit was the song that was least thought about, and the last one to add to the album, yet it became the biggest, and most famous track that Nirvana would ever make.

The band was hoping to maybe sell 100 000 copies of their record, which was already a very high aim for them. They were up for the big jackpot, and ended up selling 30 million copies world wide. Now, this album is listed # 17 on the top 500 of the greatest albums of all time.

The video clip of Smells like teen spirit gives you the complete message with the song. The underdeveloped filming skills, making the video less mainstream, the rough cheerleaders sporting the anarchy logo, and a bunch of teens going crazy to Cobain singing till his vocal cords almost snap.

Sadly, Kurt Cobain committed suicide and was found dead on April 5th 1994. He listened to an album of R.E.M before shooting himself in the head. His suicide was due to his alcohol abuse and clinical depression. All the suicide notes found made it clear that this was his last act of desperation. Yet, like most amazing musicians- Nirvana had more success after Kurt's suicide. The grunge style became in, the music was hot...and Smells like teen spirit has been imitated my countless artists all the way up to the respectful imitations by Tori Amos and the less respectful imitations by Miley Cyrus. Cobain did not die without leaving his traces... Cheers to that!

Prada or nada

I am in love with the elegant alien vibe that Prada puts out with this ad campaign video. The video is filled with sexy suspense. Strong, strong Prada.



The combination of patterns, colors, volume and texture creates a creepy end product, a good creepy. The kind of creepy that gives you chills up and down your body because even though the garments are crazy, the passion that Miuccia Prada put into it drips off from the collection. The collection is all in all awkward. Awkward boots, which makes it look like you are wearing socks underneath your Mary Jane heels, the awkward material combinations of glitter with fur, and a new improved way to carry your purse. Forget the skimpy, little tight dresses with killer heels and red lipstick. This is the new (awkward) sexy!

Lierke Plezierke

I have had a prolonged writers block. But finally I have I found myself a calm place to sit and blog.

I have recently moved into the new house of my parents in Belgium. Even though there is still a lot to do inside the house, the house is beautiful! The garden is rather big, and I have found several spots where it would be perfect to spend the day having a picnic, or reading a good book. My favorite spot found so far is by the weeping willow right next to the pond which has a little fountain in it. A weeping willow is my favorite tree, because it portrays so much peace and romance. In combination with the water, and if I am lucky, a little bit of blessed sunshine coming through the clouds, any day is perfect!

Yet, it is soon time to move again... Tuesday I am signing my new contract! I found a lovely student flat in Lier, the town I will study in from now on. I have been to Lier twice now, and have seen some beautiful Rococo and Gothic architecture, right outside my door. Seems like I am going to find plenty of inspiration! My student flat is right across my university. I literally have to cross the street, flaunt a few steps and I'm at school! I think I will be working the bed-head look more than usual... I will also be going to Antwerp once in a while for some classes, which excites me because Antwerp is a fashion capital, and it is my home after all. Having lived in Poland and The Netherlands, it is good to be back at your own home sweet home.

Even though Lier is small, I have found out that there are several internationally known clubs, and nice bars around- Sweeeet! I cannot wait to move, discover new things, and meet new people.

I start September 26th, so basically have another month of summer vacation. I just finished my summer job at a clothing store, which I really enjoyed. I loved being busy, helping people around, and learning more about the behind the scenes. But now I am back at home, and even though there is still loads to be done around the house, I just want to get out of the house and do something productive again- Soon enough I will be busy moving and making my student room look cozy, and maybe finding a little job again!

I'll keep you posted!

Corny crush

How many girls cried when they found out Justin Bieber has a girlfriend? How many ladies are still deeply disappointed that Brat Pitt is taken? And how many boys have a poster of one of the Victoria's Secret angels hanging above their bed? Or fill their picture frames at home with Megan Fox instead of their dear mama?

There is something with being obsessed with celebrities, and crushing on them. What's the point to crush on someone if they don't even know you exist? I never understood people who could go crazy about someone so out of reach. We are all attracted to the fame and just the fantasy of having it all.

I started to think who my celebrity crush could possibly be. I think it's rather silly to crush on celebrities, so I really had to be honest with myself and think which celebrity makes my heart beat a little faster, and makes me want to move to Hollywood... My close friends have probably noticed in the past a little (or a lot) already, but my celebrity crush is definitely Pharrell Williams. I've been crushing on him for years!

This boy, well man actually (he's 38!), has got a sense of style to die for! He's got the classy, the hipster, and the rap superstar looks all covered! His flawless, cute, baby face makes this world wide playa playa actually seem trustworthy and loyal- dangerous bad boy! His body covered in tatts and the bling in the ears makes me love listing to his music even more. His swagga is smooth, relaxed and confident.
He's not tall, but he is a big man, which makes it all a-okay. Pharrell is obviously talented, and understands how to run this business- I like a man that knows his field inside out.

Even though he knows he is desired by many, I am not convinced he is cocky. From what I have seen, and what I can pick up, he is charming and kind.
What more could a lady wish for?

Pharrell, this is my celebrity crush declaration to you. What about diner tonight? Pick me up at 8.00, xoxo.

Little in the middle

I came back on Thursday from Amsterdam. I only stayed a few days, since I finally had to move all my stuff back to Belgium. I wanted to make the last few days count, so made sure that I could say goodbye to Amsterdam with a (somewhat) fulfilled feeling. Too bad that Amsterdam was a bit empty, since most people are on vacation. I will of course come back to visit from time to time, but it won't be the same again. Yet, I had a great time with the people I did get to see in Amsterdam :)

My family came over from Belgium to help me move on Thursday, and within hours my room looked as empty as when I first entered my room. Two big cars were filled up with stuff that was in my little room. I only lived there a year, came with one suitcase from Warsaw to Amsterdam, and managed to leave the place with two full cars!

I have now decided what I want to study the new school year. I have decided to study for high school teacher fashion. I took a test in High school (Euroquest test) were they ask you loads of different questions to try and see which possible future study or profession is suitable for you. They told me I should be a teacher. So if I can combine teacher with my love for fashion, then this is the perfect in between.

I am also looking for a place to live by myself. Even though most students in Belgium live at home during their studies, and my campus is only 20 minutes away from my parents' home, I want to live alone. I think living by yourself grows you up, teaches you essential life lessons, and I also like the freedom and responsibilities that comes along with it. I read in the newspaper that there is only 5% student rooms left, so I better hurry and find some place to live!

On Wednesday I officially start my job, which will take up majority of August. I will work as a sales girl in a clothing store. It pays pretty well for a student job, so I am not complaining. The store were I work is only about 10 minutes away by car from where I live now, and is located on the shopping street of my town.
The day before yesterday, I was walking around on the shopping street with my friend, and I already saw fall collections happily filling up the store windows. Fur, leather, brown, grey and black- the typical fall/winter collection characteristics were already present. Noooo! How upsetting! I haven't even been able to put on a proper bikini this summer, and the stores are already telling us to wrap ourselves up for the cold temperatures to come and haunt us. I still have summer dresses waiting for their public debut! I don't crave a designer bag, a leather jacket or some killer heels no more, I just crave the warm sunny weather...Weather Gods, you heard me. Give me warm, sunny weather. Yes, it's an order.

The perfect diner

Blogger unfortunately doesn't work so well in Belgium, so it's a bit harder to blog from here. I hope it will improve over time somehow... But I have missed blogging. When I don't blog for a while, I find it harder to find a topic to write about, since I'm out of my "zone". So, I Googled some blog post ideas today and came to the perfect topic- How does your perfect diner look like? With who are you? What are you eating? Describe the atmosphere.

I grew up in a family where eating together is a must. Hungover, not hungry, on a diet, or whatever other excuse you could make was invalid at my home. My mom has always been the cook at home, so homemade food is what I grew up with for 18 years. I wasn't always a fan of what my mom cooked (sorry mom), but definitely appreciate her effort to always take care of her family and stand behind the stove and oven, unconditionally.

In Amsterdam, I lived alone, but had all my dear friends live near me. We would often get together and cook. Either from a cooking book, left overs in the fridge, or whatever our home country's traditional food is. But the family feeling that this gave all of us, was unique and something that all made us feel at home being away from our families. I am definitely not so much in love with pasta anymore, I think any college student understands that...

My perfect diner would be with the perfect partner, your soul mate, your love of your life. I haven't found that person yet, so I'll just take an imaginary soul mate (no hate).
I prefer brunch over diner, since I am a person who likes sweet stuff, and this tends to be more appropriate for lunch/brunch. I'm imagining finding myself with my soul mate on a hill, facing a vineyard and a crystal clear sky, and sunshine in our eyes would be the only thing that's bothering us on our beautiful picnic.

Cut the crap... What's in the picnic basket? That's the question.

Hey pretty baby with the high heels on

I just came back from my short trip to Amsterdam. I had to go back to take care of a few things (like paperwork), but I of course also wanted to visit my friends again.

Only a few of my friends were still in town, but we managed to meet up and still spend some quality time together. Yalda, Jake and I went to Bijenkorf (a shopping mall) and after some window shopping we decided to get a drink on the roof-top cafe. I was ordering my latte coffee (I only drink latte or cappuccino when it comes to coffee) and saw miniature champagne bottles standing behind the counter. I thought it was so adorable, I had to get this for my friends to celebrate my return to Amsterdam! So I decided to surprise my friends and let them sip some champagne ;) We loved feeling so glamorous for a little while...

Afterwards, we decided to go to Vapiano to eat some nice Italian food! Yummy. Vapiano never disappoints me- it's quick, cheap yet it's still cozy and delicious. It doesn't feel like a typical fast-food tent, which is a big plus! Vapiano is pretty present throughout Europe, so if there is one near, and you haven't tried it yet- try it!

Being back in Amsterdam, even if it's for only a few days, means you have to go out. So Jake and I put ourselves to it on a lonely Tuesday evening. We found an empty Amsterdam with only 2 parties on- the Winston, and club NL. We went to Winston first, but it was a live free-style. We wanted to dance, so we decided to roam around A'dam for a while and see what else is up. Before we knew it we were having happy hour beers in the gay district and laughing about the 2 guys next to us taking the flirting a bit too serious. We decided to explore further and check out club NL. We have never been there before, but we thought it was worth a shot. We see the club and park our bikes. I start to worry as I see pigeons peacefully sleeping on the bench right next to the club, but we enter anyways. We scan the room and find ourselves in the most awkward environment- it was me, Jake and the bartender. THAT'S IT. The disco balls on the ceiling were giving it their all, and the flashing lights couldn't even be saved by shooting stars. Poor club NL. We decided to get out of there as soon as possible and go back to the Winston to enjoy some live performances. All in all, we didn't dance the night away, but we definitely had some fun.

I also went to see Harry Potter in 3D with my friend, Isaaq. I have never been a Harry Potter fan, or ever will be, but this movie was good. It was a bit hard to tag along with the whole story, since I have never read any of the books or watched any of the movies. But, since it was 3D it came alive. In fact, it fascinated me! And we felt pretty cool with our 3D glasses on :D


Now, I am back in Antwerp and just came back from a ladies movie night. I went to my cousins' friend/coworkers' home. We found ourselves in an awesome 50s inspired interior! Marilyn Monroe covered the walls together with James Dean, the bubble lamps were on and the jazz music was filling up the room. Her man was out, so it was strictly ladies only. She made some great finger food, and a delicious crumble pie! We watched a funny movie, and drank a funny drink along with it.

Earlier today, I had to go to my test day, to work in a clothing store. I worked in the store from 1-5, and had to help the customers, organize the clothes, clean up here and there. It's nothing too challenging, but I am just glad I found myself a job! :)

Now, I am off to bed. I don't have exact plans for tomorrow yet, but I'll dream about it, and come up with something.


Picture by Yalda

Boom boom pow...Mary Katrantzou

Mary Katrantzou was born in Athens in 1983. She grew up in an artistic family as her mother was an interior designer and her father was trained in Textile Design.

Getting her BA in Textile Design at Central Saint Martins, and an MA Fashion was the foundation of her successful future. In 2008, she made her first ready-to-wear collection which was debuted on the London Fashion Week event.

She often makes use of digital printing, which makes her textiles more beautiful than ever. She incorporates jewelry, perfume bottles, home interior, glass blowing, and architecture as a source of inspiration into her designs, which makes you believe you are in a fairy tale land. The chandelier-inspired jewelry comes blown out of proportion, and the colors she uses come straight from a sophisticated mushroom trip. The designer pays very close attention to detail, which makes her designs come alive!

Amen!

The voice of an angel. Enjoy :)

My much desired wish-list : classics

A simple leather jacket. It can dress you up or dress you down. Can take an up-town outfit down-town and vice versa. It's something I don't have, but I realllly should!












Louboutin black high heels can never hurt. I believe that these shoes bring any woman success... or at least a feel-good effect!










This Petit Noe bag is so darling. I love how nonchalant this bag looks and how it's a bit adventurous as the shape of it reminds me of a comfortable traveling bag.


















This doesn't require much of an explanation does it? It's an all time classic that each lady should have. Goes with everything, and never leaves the must-have list until the 2.55 can be my arm candy.

How 'bout you get a job

Today I went to look for a summer job. I went to the shopping street near, and looked all around to see if they are still looking for people. In the end I found 5 clothing stores where they can still use someone for a summer job. So I handed in my CV, and now I have to wait and see for replies. I have never worked in a clothing store, yet I hope that they will not hold this against me.

I am already imagining what I would want to do with my first paycheck ... :D I have an impossible wish list in my head, full of items that I would like to purchase. Unfortunately, I don't think that a summer job can finance this.

Since I am staying in Antwerp, which is commonly known as a big fashion city, I must go to Momu, aka the fashion museum. They currently have an exhibition on knitwear through the years. Anything from Sonia Rykiel to Chanel is on display. Momu has around 25.000 items in their possesion, coming from the early 16th century up to now. I have never been before, so I think it's time to go and check it out!

Safe tonight

Today I went to the Anna Frank house with Jake. It was impressive, but I didn't get to enjoy it that much, because there is so much on my mind...

The day after tomorrow I am leaving back to Belgium... For good. I had the idea of changing courses already for a while, because I didn't feel like this was exactly how I imagined it. I loved the fashion part, but not the management part. The only thing that really exited me were the fashion lectures we got, which was really only about 10 % of what we did in school. The school told me in my final assessment that they don't see me as a fashion manager, and this was the breaking point.

I am sad and upset that I have to leave Amsterdam all of the sudden. I still have so much to discover and do in Amsterdam, I don't want to leave yet. But at the same time, I have so much to take care of; find a new school, a new place to live and a job. I can't believe I have to say goodbye to such an amazing city, with such amazing people in it. My parents want me to move back as soon as possible because there is so much to do, and I have to get used to living in a country that I am totally not used to. My parents are rushing everything for me, telling me what to do, not realizing that I'm leaving a place that's really dear to me.

I have learnt so much this year, and can't grasp the idea of leaving Amsterdam... on Thursday. To be honest, I always looked down a bit on people who stay in their home country to study. It just seems so easy and un-adventurous, and now I am going to be one of them. I hope that Antwerp will treat me nice after all.

I now stand still on simple things like going to the Albert Heijn store to get my groceries, or a bike ride in town, just because I know I won't do it again, or if I do it again, it won't ever be the same anymore.

I will miss the all-nighters with my dear Diemen crew, and the party crew that made the kitchen's in Diemen legendary. I will always cherish the moments that I had with my sweet Sugar Cube. I will miss the bike rides and the random pit stops on the way home that brought us our fair share of adventure. I will even miss my 12m ² room... and I want to say a big thank you to all the people that helped me get through this year :)

I will leave Amsterdam with a little broken heart, but sweet memories and friends forever.

Clear the sky, take off your bow tie. We're going down to earth.

Same song, different twist, yet, same amazing-ness. Time to close my eyes on this music, let it sink in, and find my way to dreamland for a few hours of sleep. Goodnight.

P.s: I recommend listing to this song on full blast- turn up all the volume possible, you'll love it(but don't wake up your neighbors)!

“ Thousands of candles can be lit from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared.”

I'm laying in my bed, with the only light coming from my computer and my lavender scented candle. The flame of the candle dances irregularly to whatever air or wind is pushing it or pulling it. It looks like a hyper active child.

Lit candles can evoke so many different emotions, and be used for so many different purposes. Before the light bulb was invented in 1879, the main purpose of candles was to give light to lead someone home in the dark, and give you warmth and protection. Candles also partake a big role in traditions and religions, still the day of today.

Birthday candles. Each year one more, and each year a wish. I pretend that each candle is a birthday candle, so I can make more than just one wish a year. The trick is to be able to blow all your candles out at once, then you are lucky. Sometimes I would get trick candles, that magically light up by themselves again after you blew them out already- oh, how fun!

Grave candle lights. To honor someone, show appreciation and let your loved one know you are thinking about them. In Poland, I would sometimes go to the graveyard at dark (not alone, I'm not that creepy), to find a beautiful canvas of different candles with a rainbow of colors setting an amazingly warm atmosphere in a cold place. Knowing that all these people put up a candle for a loved one, or maybe even for a random, lonely grave, warms your heart.

Romantic candles. Valentines day, or your anniversary with your lover, or just a romantic candle lit dinner. A simple candle can create such an intimate atmosphere and create that vibe you are looking for. Convince your boyfriend that it's not corny to have candles! Yes, 96 % of the candles are purchased by women, but let him be the 4 %.

Lonely coziness. Just like me now- to cozy up your room, have some soft light that warms your face, and brightens your closed eyelids, making it feel like a sunset. The lonely coziness candles are the worst in my opinion, because their purpose can vary dramatically. If you are feeling melancholic, this can only intensify it, and bring you down. Yet, if you are feeling cheerful, this can only brighten up your day even more.

For whatever reason or occasion I light up a candle, I remember what Hindu Prince Gautama Siddharta, the founder of Buddhism said," there are thousands of candles that can be lit from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreased by being shared".

But please, remember to blow out your candles so you can a. make a wish, and b. that your shared happiness can live on without your house turning into a camp fire.

Don't go to sleep just to count some sheep

The things that keep me up at night go from, HowTheFuckAmIGonneSurviveTheMonthWithThisLittleMoneyLeft?, to, how does the universe end, if it even ends? To both those questions, sadly, I rarely know the answer.

I asked a few friends of mine what keeps them up at night. It went from coffee, to sex, to worries about the next day, writing music lyrics, fear, or an interesting conversation. The best one I heard was happiness. Imagine that happiness is all that keeps you up at night. If happiness is what keeps you up, you've got nothing more you could wish for. Blessed soul.

When I was little, my mom would sing me lullabies about counting sheep and being thankful for the day you've had. The meaning of those songs I didn't pay attention to, but her soothing, calm voice would trigger my sleepy-button, and I'd be gone in no time. Instead of her voice, I now listen to the CNN broadcaster on my little telly giving the latest news, which is sadly not about counting sheep or being thankful for the wonderful day you've had...

Instead of trying to fall asleep, try to stay up tonight. See what happens. See what thoughts you bump into... Perhaps you start cleaning your room, or perhaps you make a blog post, like me. It doesn't matter what you do, but you do it and go for it.

Maybe, when you try to fall asleep tonight, thoughts will come up into your mind that usually wouldn't. You might discover something new about someone or something that you didn't know. This is the jackpot you want.

So... Who is staying up, instead of trying to fall asleep tonight?

So our love will never end...

This makes any heart melt a little bit :)

I'll pauze this game...

I used to play this game when I was small, but never realized the cute love story behind it. If you listen to the lyrics of this song, it makes you think about the Mario game in a completely different way. How darling is this ?!

" Roses are red, violets are blue, some poems rhyme and this one doesn't "

Regina and I have been stuck at the library for the day- We have a business exam on Thursday. So we are getting up early, and going to sleep late. Our brains are about to explode, which makes us act goofy and random at times... We have reached a point where you think everything is funny, just because you are so exhausted and sick of studying.

On the bright side, I'm going to Poland on Friday to go to my brothers high school graduation which is on Saturday. I come back on Monday, and we have one more exam on Tuesday (fashion exam).

On an even brighter side, Wednesday I'm going to a hair modeling of Fudge. A few of my friends have done it before, and you basically just go there, get your hair dyed and cut AND get paid! The haircut always look great, and suits the person. I have always had a hard time finding a refreshing haircut that works with my curly hair, so I'm very exited to see what the pro's have up their sleeve ;)
Sounds like the perfect treat for after exams!

Sitting, waiting, wishing...

New pair of designer heels for each day of the week, a casual get together with my Chanel bags and my Chanel stash hidden in the fridge. Not to forget, the lifelong supply of Chanel cosmetics.


This is a dream to many, reality to some... but for now, let it remain fiction, because it's my addiction. I crave extreme luxury like this, makes me sit down and study for fashion biz.

I wanne make that money one day, so I don't need a sugar daddy to come and pay.

Sexy can I

These two videos are by Fortnight Lingerie, a Canadian lingerie brand. Sex sells, what more is there left to say...

Copy Cat

Since I started to study fashion, I have learnt at school that fashion is continuously recycled and reused, without shame. We look at fashion from the early days on, until now and see where and what has been reused, which influences have been used and where it originates from. It is really interesting to study because once you know this, you can see how your own outfits are influenced by what designers have done in the past and which style it originates from.

I recently found this website, www.intothefashion.com, which shows how over time, very similar garments have been created and imitated. But, don't take it bad... It's practically impossible to create something completely new nowadays. Everything has been done before- we can give it a new twist, but creating a whole new something, without any inspiration of the past isn't done. This website points fingers on this, and displays it perfectly! I love it!

I'm talking Sętowski with some green tea

Born in 1961, Sętowski was made to be a Magic Realism superstar. He graduated at the Faculty of Fine Arts in Czestochowa, Poland in 1989. From there on, he started getting noticed by art lovers for his unique painting style. His trippy, story telling paintings caught attention. Stricoff Fine Arts, one of New York's best galleries, was looking for a breath of fresh air, and decided to take a chance with Tomasz Sętowski. This meant a career breakthrough for him.

I have been to a few galleries with Sętowski paintings on display (in Poland), and they are absolutely fascinating. You get sucked into the world the artist paints on a canvas, and feel a little bit like Alice in Wonderland. The way he sees things and is able to portray them using paints, highly studied techniques and passion would captivate anybody.

...

I'm just imagining being a well-aged artsy lady, with long grey hair tied back in a bun. Going from gallery to gallery as a daily activity, admiring the artists' work whilst sipping on a cup of delicious green tea made by the gallery owner. The gallery owner sits in a big red, velvet chair behind a little wooden table, which really isn't big enough for all the paper work he has laying around, but he finds the contrast of big and small amusing. He get's up and leads me through the gallery and basically gives me a love declaration for each and every painting he has hanging there.
He goes on and on and on... a painting of Sętowski is up next. The painting fills up the whole wall. It seems like paint drops are coming from the gallery owners' mouth and fingers whilst giving this deep love declaration. He starts moving his legs as if it were paintbrushes and moves his head around as if it were to be a painters easel. My green tea starts boiling and pours out of the bottom of the cup. My knees get shaky and my feet burn as the hot tea lands on my open heels. I panic and look around, realizing that I let the Labyrinth of Imagination haunt me...

Face to Face

On my laptop, and on most people's computer first thing that happens when you type in "f" in a new Internet browser, Facebook pops up. This is about to change for me, because I am totally hooked on Facehunter (www.facehunter.blogspot.com)! I spent hours looking through the blog and feeling so inspired by other peoples'looks.

There are dozens of blogs that post looks of different people throughout the world, but this one is special. It is not prude, nor seen before nor dated. Not scared of pushing it or pulling it. I am charmed by its charisma.

What I love most about this blog is that they post quiet a few pictures of looks that are not trying to be a look at all, but it just works. A hobo, a grandpa, or a little kid- they just manage to hit the right note and make their look work. Effortlessly.

Anything from a crazy all over look, to a small, yet, appreciated detail goes on there.

Nobody needs to be a professional, or passionate about fashion in order to be fashion. Anyone can do and be fashion. Fashion, to me, is anything from a lifestyle to a lucky combination a numb-nut made by blindly grabbing something from his closet. Fashion can be anything you want it to be.

Take a break, for Christ's sake

I just had a week off from school and totally relaxed! I went to Belgium, to see my family and go to the beach. The whole atmosphere is amazing when you go back, and everyone is so happy to see your face again. It was short, but sweet.

Some things I miss being gone:

- 2 person bed
- Going to a restaurant without taking pizza margarita because it's the cheapest
- Saying good morning to your own family first thing in the morning
- Driving a car

Yet, being back in Amsterdam felt like coming back home :)
Now, I have about 6 weeks left of school. My first year as a fashion student is almost over! Although, those 6 weeks will pull out every bit of energy and patience that I could have, out of me. Every moment you sit still, you feel guilty, because you know you could and should be working for school. Even simple things such as cooking a meal, or walking to the store instead of biking will be canceled out from my life. But really, I can't complain- I'm studying something I absolutely love and am really interested in.

This summer my plan is to stay in Holland. I need to find a job and make some of my own money. I love living on my own so far, but I'm still very much dependent on my parents. I am turning 20 in September, so I am no longer a teenager... Which for me means that I need to be more independent and have a job and money of my own. I would love to have a job that's fashion related, so I can build up skill, experience and a CV. Any fun suggestions?

Orange madness

Every year The Netherlands turns orange for a day. That one day is queens day, the day all the Dutch celebrate queen Beatrix's birthday. This has been a tradition since 1885 all over The Netherlands. The biggest, most popular area for queens day is Amsterdam- Score! ;)

I went to town with my friends Jake and Cigdem, and had no idea what to expect as it was our first queens day ever! As we approached the city, we decided to leave our bikes by AMFI (our school) and walk the rest, since finding your bike back in the city center on queens day is a disaster we were told. We see all these stands set up with people selling anything from toys, clothing, books to 90's aerobics videos's. But we didn't want to shop (for once),
we wanted to dance and have fun!

We decided to just walk around town and see what's going on. The thing is, everything was going on. Everything that you could possibly think is wrong, was right this day. People dancing on top of big trucks, climbing the traffic lights, drag queens with stiletto heels flirting with the bar men, drunk mommies dragging their children across town, rope skipping for seniors- Anything you can think of, happened. There really were no limits! This really shows how free spirited the Dutch people are. Everybody was united and each others friends on queens day. It was an adventure to see and experience at the same time!

After scanning the town, we found a club where there was a dj playing some fantastic music outside. We decided to stick around and get our dance moves on. The crowd was crazy, everybody was singing and dancing along, it was beyond amazing!

The hours passed, the beer cans became empty, and soon enough it was the end of the national holiday! All 3 of us had a great time, and are definitely looking forward to next year's queen's day already!

Easter in Belgium

Helloooo,

I got back yesterday from a weekend in Belgium. I took a train on Saturday and arrived in the beautiful city of Antwerp, with the sun shining and my Godfather waiting at the train station, ready to pick me up and drive me to their house.

My cousin got married in October, and has been in the process of building their new house for a while now, and it is almost done. I decided it would be great to spend a night at theirs to see what's it like. My cousins husband is an architect, so everything is very design oriented, minimalistic and modern, with a touch of coziness by the use of color and some decorations. Now that I study fashion, those kind of things became that much more interesting to me, as it is a form of fashion as well. They made sure that the guest room was done before I got there so I had a nice place to sleep.
The memories I have with my cousin, Annelies, is mostly childhood memories of us playing with dolls and putting on make-up. So, to see her married, in a new house, and completely independent is such a big difference from what I used to know her by when she was a young teen. Lovely!


We had an Easter party at my grandfathers' house the day after. We drove down there, and found a cozy parasol, a big table to lunch on, and great company waiting for us in the backyard. Soon enough everybody arrived and the party got started. The little children were playing board games, the young adults were playing drinking games. And the adults were telling the young adults to stop drinking that much. But soon enough things settled and we had jolly conversations about nothing and everything.
We had a filthy amount of food waiting for us, champagne glasses filled up to the top and heavenly dessert waiting for the brave one's, who could still find a little hole to fill up.

Everybody was of course curious on how Amsterdam is treating me, and I of course told them that I love my studies and the city and the people and everything! So they were happy to hear all was good. Before I knew it the day was over again, and the next day I was on the train back to Amsterdam already. Why do all good things come to an end...

Sun is shining...

The weather has been beyond amazing these past days in Amsterdam! Today it was 27 degrees. The skirts and dresses are out, and the stockings are sleeping in. Shades go on, not just to hide our faces anymore (thank God!).

Today I went to Christin's place for a rooftop BBQ. The view on top of her roof is so great, feels like you are on top of the world and the city is in your hands. The sun shining on our faces creates happiness all around us and makes me feel like I am on summer vacation already! We have about 7 weeks of school left, so we are not that far away anymore.

Even though us girls were clueless on how to start up a BBQ, we found a real man that could help us out and allow us to put that meat on fire! An overdose of food is an understatement- My stomach actually hurt from eating this much. Shame pon me.

Easter is right around the corner, and in my family it is a tradition to celebrate it together. This is my first year in The Netherlands, and before that I used to live in Poland so we would skip the Easter celebration because of the traveling distance. Yet, now that I live so close to Belgium I will take a train and enjoy a weekend in Belgium :) I haven't been there in several months now (last time I went to visit my aunt at the beach) so I'm curious and exited to see everyone again. It's been far too long! Not to even mention the delicious Belgian chocolate eggs that are waiting for me...

I'm not sure if I consider Belgium my home since I only have childhood memories from there. I adapt to new places quiet easily, even a hotel room is my home after a few days. Nevertheless, Belgium is a place, and will always be a place that means something special to me. So going back to my home country is great. I haven't seen some of my family members for too long, so it will be great to reunite and catch up. Especially now that I live on my own, it will be interesting to share stories amongst each other.

Recently my parents decided to move back to Belgium and leave Poland behind forever. It's a pity on one side because my family has always loved living in Poland... But on the other side, good things must come to an end too, but this will mean that I will live closer to my family now. Poland was such a good schooling for all of us, and my family really did adapt well in the Polish life style and enjoyed living there to the fullest. But I am a 100 % sure none of us will miss the -32 degrees cold winters and snow up to your knees! My parents already found a house, and are moving in this summer! I am already planning on a great house warming party ;)

For now, I need to get some (beauty)rest. It's been an active, long day and my eyes want to sache away. Tomorrow will be great weather again, so I will keep the sunshine smile on my face by starting off the day by biking to school with the fresh air and the morning sun- How lovely! :D

Goodnight!

Hamburg

I've been neglecting my blog like crazy! I honestly feel bad, so I need to get back on track. I just have been a tad lazy, but also really busy. A lot has happened in the past days and there is also a lot of fun stuff coming up in the near future.

I spent four days in Hamburg on a school trip with all the people from my course. We had to do some school work and went to a museum. Yet, quiet honestly we did not do a lot of school/fashion related things, which is a pity. All in all, Hamburg was a great city to visit. We stayed in a rather sketchy neighborhood of Hamburg, but it was close to all the clubs and bars, so it wasn't a deal breaker for us!





Either way, Regi and I decided to put our own fashion twist on the trip and have a funky photoshoot at the local amusement park! I bought this amazing black pleated skirt at an underground vintage store for 10 euros. It is 5 sizes too big, but I had to get it, as a fashion student I can make it work with a brioche and safety pins. Later on I will sew it to make it fit without the pins.

Other than that, we did some over the top make up and enjoyed the beautiful weather outside (and the dirty/shocked looks)!

Upcoming blog posts will be about the 80s party I never ended up going to, my visit to Belgium this weekend, a video clip I took part in and my parents moving back to Belgium! Stay tuned ;)

Home sweet home

I'm back from a great trip! Hamburg was so much fun, and I will upload pictures soon! We went around town, went on a boat trip, visited a museum, went shopping and clubbing. Hamburg was a great city, but for now, I need to rest (had a 10 hour trip back) and unpack. Zzzz...

Out of town

I am leaving for Hamburg this Sunday, and will come back on Wednesday. I'm going on a school trip with my whole course (fashion management). We will go there to look for trends, look at the shops and just see the city and spend time together. We also have an assignment to work in groups and complete this assignment as you spend your days in the city.
We arranged a room for 6 people, so it's going to be a fun party ;) We are staying right in the party district of the town, only too bad that we are not there for a full weekend. But knowing the 5 other girls that will be in the room, this won't stop us from going out!

We are going by bus, so it's going to be one hell of a ride. We leave at 10 and arrive at 4. Well either way,I will take my laptop to Hamburg, so I will blog from there on! I have never been to Hamburg, so I'm very curious to see what's it like!

I've got another confession to make...

www.postsecret.com is one of my favorite websites. This websites allowes anyone to send a secret ( majority is in paper form) to their address. These secrets can be humorous, sad, ironic, etc. I always tend to find something that makes me stand still and think...

Relaxation after frustration

This weekend, Regina, Jake, and I went to The Hague. We went on a spontaneous city trip to explore and get away from Amsterdam for the weekend. Regina's family has a house right by the beach, so we went and got some fresh spring air :)

The difference between Amsterdam and The Hague isn't enormous, but still you get a different vibe. Amsterdam is very touristic, which I quiet enjoy since people from across the world come and visit the city I study in. Yet, it is nice to be in a city where it is less touristic, and not have the awkward family pictures or the standing by a random tree pictures being taken around you. It is also just nice to change settings from time to time, see something new.

We went around town, did some shopping, some sight seeing and beer drinking. We also enjoyed the stuffed fridge Regina´s dad left us! Unthinkable food options for poor, little college kids became an option now, like biological eggs or soya milk. We had a food fest all day, every day. Love it!

I also met up with Isaaq, someone I got to know in Amsterdam, but his home town is The Hague. He showed me a bit of the street culture there. We went to the park by the central station where the boys were skateboarding, and the girls were sitting down with gold hoop earrings and pilled on make-up, admiring the tricks from the boys. Music coming from their phones and girls giggling away, bubble gum popping... All in all the location didn't matter that much because Isaaq and his friends can free-style no matter what surrounding. They were free-styling to any beat given, pulling words out of God knows where and making it rhyme, go with the beat, and have a meaning... All at the same time. All moment is moment, no pausing, no grasping for air, no stuttering. That´s impressive. One drops a beat, one joins the beat, and the other one freestyles. I've never experienced such "rhythm and poetry" come so spontaneous and pure. You never know when the freestyle bomb will hit, but when it hits, it hits hard. I was sitting there, enjoying the freestyles, yet feeling quit out of place, thus not uncomfortable. I thought about joining in and dropping a killer line or two(uhuuummm)... But my common sense stopped me (thankfully!).

Now, I am back in Amsterdam... Sigh. Suicide Monday coming up. I miss The Hague already

Pictures by Jake