Parisian chic by ines de la fressange

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I have loved every little bit of this cute book…..packed with invaluable advice and information.

Advice like ‘split your budget in two’…. use half for quality basics and half for impulse buys that will brighten your wardrobe. After reading Dress like a Parisian I found myself rushing out to buy white jeans …. somewhat relieved to find my wardrobe did include some of the other basics.

What To Wear When is invaluable but the shopping in Paris section …. which is extensive ….is brilliant because it is all,  in the main …. online !!!

Still haven’t got to the sections on beauty, beauty tips, home or how to organize your closet.  However, one quote leapt off the page …. “Frivolity is the key to youth !” …. I will most definitely be embracing this.

Am really looking forward to …..”Secret Paris” !!

Paris….and apple….how beautiful.

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                 image: via hype means everything

It is no surprise to find the Apple store in Paris in such a magnificent building. Let’s face it….everything Apple does is beautiful….starting with the packaging…..the satiny white bag with the silver apple logo and white draw string, the glossy white box and of course…..the treasure inside.  Apple products look exquisite and feel lovely to the touch…..such beautiful design.

Back to the building……this building epitomises Parisian Architecture.  It is one of the many pretty buildings in Paris that we all drool over and photograph.

And we thought our Apple store in Sydney was beautiful ! Well it is ….. just in a different way.

 

 

 

 

My Hunt For Those Beautiful Shell Mirrors

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While in Sydney during this quiet time before all the fabric and furniture showrooms open next week I have been enjoying seeking out all the places that I just didn’t get to in 2011.  High on my list was and is James Edwards Shell Mirrors in Cleveland Street. No 265 actually.  I drive past is often, never having time to stop……and wondering where I will park as it is the busy section of Cleveland St between Elizabeth St and Chalmers.  It is only open Thursday to Saturday 1pm until 5pm which does narrow the opportunities a little.

So, on googling James….. to establish all of the above, I have stumbled across the fabulous photography of Nick Bassett who has a lovely blog……and beautiful photographs of James Edwards Shells!!!!

I will have details on the mirrors when finally I get there.

India Hicks Summer Inspiration

 

There is something very Queensland about the architecture and in particular the interiors that India Hicks and her husband have created on their Caribbean Island.

The wide verandahs, the tongue and groove boarding…..everywhere ….and beautiful fretwork over doorways…that tropical climate….all designed to capture the breeze!!!

The colour palette so crisp…black and white with shades of sand and driftwood.

The turquoise ocean, lush vegetation and vibrant flower blossoms shining like jewels.

Having grown up in Queensland I now see it all through fresh eyes.  Why is it that you appreciate it so much more when you go back!!!!! The frangipani and bougainvillea seem so much more exotic…..the architecture more interesting!!!!

Having said all that ….I adore India Hicks style.  I could happily book a holiday to any one of her houses on this beautiful island.

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Colour Trends for 2012 by Farrow and Ball

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Scandinavian Drawing Room – Traditional or Modern

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Rural Cottage – Contemporary Japanese

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London Terrace –  Warehouse Living

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Tuscan Villa – Innercity Terrace

Farrow and Ball have been producing hand crafted paint and wallpaper in Dorset, England one batch at a time since the turn of the century.

They have a magnificent range of modern and traditional paint finishes….. my passion being their extraordinary heritage and restoration colours.

I have given you my first thoughts when looking at these new colour palettes.

The possibilities are endless!!!

 They are available in Australia through Ascraft and Decortex in Rushcutters Bay.

Who is in Charge of Sydney’s New Year Fireworks? – our own Marc Newson !!

Azzedine Alaia Boutique, Paris

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Qantas First Class Lounge, Sydney

It is very exciting to hear Marc Newson is the brains and creative talent behind this years New Years Eve fireworks in Sydney.  It is worth looking at his website to get a glimpse of what he does best. His product design is beautiful!!!  Although he now lives in the UK it is encouraging that he is commissioned for such fabulous projects here.

Christmas Drinks amongst the Luxury at Becker Minty

Such an enjoyable time was had by all at the Becker Minty Christmas Drinks and Shopping Night.  So pleasant to browse at one’s leisure through their exquisite collection of gifts….something for everyone !!! even for those who want for nothing.  As usual the wine…Cape Mentelle Sauvignon Blanc Semillon was perfect and the canape delicious.

My favourites were the new Neom Organic Scented Candles, the very English Floris perfume and for complete indulgence the handmade French velvet slippers by Matthew Cookson.  Indeed the Very Best Of Everything.

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