VERSACE RENAISSANCE

via VERSACE

One of my earliest fashion memories is linked to Gianni Versace. I was four or five years old when one of my mum's closest friends gave me a blue Versace headscarf while we were on vacation. Back in the nineties, Versace was the ultimate! Luxury and vulgarity, glamour and provocation, taste and decadence - Versace combined the incompatible revolutionising high fashion forever. Every dress, every pattern and every runway show reminds us of how beautiful life is. First and foremost, Versace is an homage to beauty itself.

With his glamorous royal residence and authentic Italian charm, Gianni, who truly loved the area and  frequently enjoyed casual strolls down Ocean Drive, transformed South Beach making the Miami neighbourhood one of the trendiest spots in the world. Artists, actors, musicians, supermodels and millionaires gathered to celebrate life with the brilliant genius. In the summer of 1997 the party was officially over. The life of the beloved Italian designer was taken way too early, tragically and brutally. Wearing Versace would never feel the same. His sister Donatella however managed the impossible. She carried on Gianni's legacy. Great collections, breathtaking red carpet moments (yes, of course I'm taking about THE JLo dress, the one that has an own Wikipedia page) and beautiful editorials secured the longevity of the name Versace. Remember the stunning H&M collaboration back in 2011? Donatella's drive, strength, intelligence, talent and love for her family is undeniable. 

Today, over 20 years later, Versace is back at the very top again. It's undoubtedly the label of the year. The signature baroque print is back and it's more gorgeous than ever! The finale of Donatella's SS 2018 tribute collection show was probably the most touching and breathtaking runway moment of the decade. Gianni's favourite models as well as the faces of the new generation, the familiar prints, the majestic and beautifully nostalgic aesthetic - this is everything fashion should be! 

So... what exactly happened? How did Versace take over the fashion scene this year? Was it the brilliancy behind the recent collections? The celebrity ambassadors? Brand deals? For me personally it was something else namely Ryan Murphy's second season of American Crime Story - The Assassination of Gianni Versace. Whilst initially sparking a lot of controversy, ACS Versace perfectly incorporated the heart, soul and passion behind the Versace brand reminding millions of its timeless beauty and genius creator. I remember reading about it months before the premier. I never watched Glee or AHS or any other Murphy project to be entirely honest. I did however freak when I read the cast announcement. How on earth could I miss the goddess Penelope Cruz playing Donatella Versace? I was even more shocked when I saw the first behind the scenes photos. I also have to say that I am one of the greatest Ricky Martin fans of all time - Livin la vida loca! Cruz and Martin sold me on the show - 100%. However, after the pilot I only had eyes for Darren Criss. 

His performance was absolutely brilliant, so haunting, heartbreaking and real. I've never seen anything like this before! Darren is truly a phenomenal, one of a kind actor and I am rooting for him like crazy! What he delivered on this show can never be surpassed. Genius! (Can't wait for the Emmys next Monday!  #EmmyforDarren ) I can't tell you what my favourite episode was. There were so many strong, spectacular, terrifying and unforgettable scenes. The sixth episode titled Descent perfectly illustrated how everything can feel like nothing. The opening shows Andrew finally living the life he always claimed to have. The interior design, fashion and Laura Branigan's Self Control - can't get more aesthetically accurate than that. If this scene is not art, than I don't know what is.

Of course I was likewise stunned by Penelope's breathtaking acting and beauty. Ricky did an incredible job and bringing this legend on the show was a brilliant move dear Ryan. And I would also like to thank the genius Ryan Murphy for introducing me and many others to Edgar Ramirez. I mean, this man is everything! One of the most perfect faces I've ever seen in my life - So much fire and charisma! Not only is he insanely dashing, he is also an incredibly talented actor. He was perfect for the role! He played Gianni with so much warmth, respect and kindness. Edgar gave this show so much beauty. Can't wait to see him in his upcoming projects! 

Other noteworthy (emmyworthy) performances include the dashing Finn Wittrock and Cody Fern. This show was sensational from start to finish. If you haven't seen it yet, go watch it right now!

You won't regret it! The brilliant cast, phenomenal editing, breathtaking fashion, incredible soundtrack (so much nostalgia - I can't!) and crazily authentic 90s aesthetics (or as James Corden put it - "From the pink hotel room to the other pink hotel room") are just way too good. 

This show encouraged me to read more about Gianni, his life and the inspiration behind his stunning creations. Versace is truly one of the most beautiful, influential, important, interesting and revolutionary fashion houses of all time. I will never get enough of those prints and dresses - Versace will always be as hypnotising, majestic, seductive and tempting as the medusa of its logo. 

ERDEM FOR H&M #ERDEMXHM

November the 2nd you know what it izzzzz: It's that time of the year! H&M finally released another breathtaking designer collection! This year H&M went straight for haute couture! The Canada born designer Erdem Moralıoğlu is an incredibly talented genius! His gorgeous print, luxurious silks and ravishing florals captured the fashion industry making Erdem one of the most important red carpet labels of the decade. In Erdem women thrive! I couldn't have possibly wished for a better collaborator. And then H&M released a short film... directed by Baz "the genius behind the greatest Gatsby adaptation ever made" Luhrmann! Those of you who are familiar with my blog know that Baz Luhrmann is one of my all time favorite directors. Luhrmann is very familiar with high fashion. Remember the record setting Chanel commercial staring his Moulin Rouge muse Nicole Kidman? Fashion is essential for Luhrmann's movies. He's a man of detail. In his Erdem commercial the brilliant Baz completed the fairytale. Just see for yourself and let the fashion, visuals and music bewitch you...

Versace, Margiela, Marant, Alexander Wang, Balmain, Kenzo - the list of H&M designer collaborations is - to say the least - very impressive. The Swedish high street giant is like a fashion Santa Clause. Fashionistas all over the world wait all year for that one special day. We await every single preview, every photo, lookbook, video, interview and of course the lavish fashion shows H&M hosts in honor of the collections. The Wednesday before the release we go to bed early and prepare for an exiting morning full of fashion, fun and incredible bargains. It's a once in a lifetime chance. H&M gives us the chance to experience the magic of designer clothes. Thanks to H&M we can shine at a party in a stunning Balmain dress like Kim Kardashian or strut down the street in Isabel Marant boots like Sienna Miller. By now you can probably tell that I'm a fan! 

Erdem for H&M available at H&M Weinstraße and H&M Kaufingerstraße München

Young, old, locals, tourists and so many well dressed fashionistas - Now that's a crowd! Erdem attracted the crème de la crème of the Munich fashion elite. We arrived at the shop at 6 AM and waited with a Starbucks coffee for the doors to finally open. Guys! I really hope you managed to get your hands on the stunning pieces (also make sure to check online)!
I was obsessed with the floral line when I saw it in the look book. It is even more beautiful up close. The jewelry gives me major Paris vibes and the grey logo hoodie made my Hip Hop heart beat double time. I'm so in love! Dear Erdem - you did it! From now on even more people will obsess over your shows and collections. Collaborating with Erdem was a brilliant choice. Thank you H&M for this magical line!
Zendaya rocked the ultimate 60s look with those stunning bow earrings - so Mad Men meets millennial princess! I loved her fabulous make up and hair and I obviously had to get those gorgeous jewels!
Zendaya at the Erdem x H&M fashion show in Los Angeles, 18.10.2017

This hoodie is officially it girl approved: Simi and Haze Khadra came to slay (and bring some good music)!
The Khadra twins behind the turntables at the Erdem x H&M event in L.A. via @simihaze
The pajama trend continues to reappear on runways from New York to Milan. It honestly became a huge fan of the look. The trick is to combine luxurious fabrics with mature and elegant and yet playful prints. This Erdem x H&M pajama will work for a party, a dinner date or for a midnight stroll down the Croisette. I had to! ;)
Emma Stone during a Netflix interview with Chelsea Handler and tennis legend Billie Jean - J'adore! (via Chelsea's IG)

with love
M

#TVD - FOREVER YOURS

Oh wow... after eight incredible seasons The Vampire Diaries ended with the most heartrending finale ever made. I remember exactly how I felt about TVD when it started back in 2009. "Awesome! Another ridiculous vampire show." But after my high school friends forced me to give TVD a shot, I fell for the show with all my heart. Eight years, the hottest cast in the history of television, an incredibly smart and well written story - TVD is everything! Eight seasons with Stefan, Damon, the Mikaelsons and last but never least the baddest bitch of all, Katherine Pierce, filled our hearts with joy, pain, excitement, drive and passion. TVD will forever be the greatest fantasy show of all times! Thank you Julie, Kevin, Nina, Paul, Ian, Candice, Kat, Zach, Matt, Joseph, Daniel & everybody else who contributed to this magical wonder #TVDForever.
So... let's talk about the finale! I honestly believe that it was absolutely beautiful. I known that many fans are disappointed and saddened by the fate of the 'good' brother. Stefan Salvatore was always the main male protagonist. This was his story. And yes, I have to admit that I cried a million tears when Stefan sacrificed himself to save his loved ones, had his final bittersweet moment with Elena and eventually found peace with his beloved convertible and BFF Lexi (to make things worse there was obviously a The Fray song involved). I was deeply impressed by Candice King's incredible acting talent! Her scenes were so incredibly sincere and moving and honestly they were almost more emotional than the longly anticipated Delena reunion - but oh well, guess you can't fake it all. Nina was, as always, incredible though as well (same goes to Paul). One of my favorite parts was obviously the fact that there was a little hint on a potential Klaroline endgame. ;) According to Julie Plec. Joseph Morgan was supposed to have an appearance in the finale but wasn't able to come to the set due to other work related responsibilities which is why the writers had to include him in a different way. I would have been very disappointed if they would have given us a Mikaelson free finale. After all Klaus & Co. were the stars of seasons 2-4. The most incredible, epic and beautiful moments were obviously the final minutes which show how Elena and Damon find peace after a long, fulfilled and happy life together. The show ended with the infamous "Hello Bother" line from the pilot. Damon knocked at the door of the Salvatore house and reunited with his beloved brother Stefan. They will be together forever, as a family. I believe that this is the most important message of the show - Family, always and forever...

Oh, I'll miss this show so damn much! But as the cast said during their last Facebook live, we can always restart the TVD journey thanks to Netflix and co. And don't forget that The Originals will be back on March 17th on the CW! Alaric will appear soon as well so let's hope for more cameos and more than four seasons of the epic spin off! Can't wait!

And here are some hilarious bloopers to take away the sadness - Don't be sad guys, it was an epic ride! The show, the cast and the love of the fandom was absolutely amazing! Cheers to that! ;) *Eastern European Accent* "Yes, no, maybe so?!"

xx
M

OH LA LA: FIFTY SHADES DARKER

FIFTY SHADES DARKER... When I saw the trailer, I knew it in my heart - Don't lie to yourself girl, you're totally watching this! Wherever you go, whatever you hear or see, this movie is everywhere. Last night we finally managed to find the time for a little cinema visit. The average Fifty Shades Of Grey crowd consists of 30% young girls who have the hots for Jamie Dornan, 30% twenty something people who watch the whole thing like it's a Zach Galifianakis comedy and 30% couples who pretend that they are just 'curious' (and the remaining 10% are super weird). I guess we were group B. How could you not laugh hysterically at those dialogues (especially when you are an actual English literature student)?! But jokes aside, this film series is an incredible visual experience! I mean look at those breathtaking locations, stunning interiors, lavish dresses and beautiful people. How could your eyes not enjoy that?! ;) So if you somehow haven't seen this spectacle yet, here's what you need to know about the adaption of E. L. James second hit: FIFTY SHADES DARKER!

1. Amazing costume design

One thing is for sure: Christian's fashion game is stronger than Ana's. This man sure knows how to dress his girl. No need to mention that everything is designer designer. These are my favorite kind of product placements! Not that Christian Louboutin or Azzedine Alaïa are in need of some extra promotion but I'm pretty sure that Monique Lhuillier (who's btw also an amazing wedding dress designer - will Ana tie the knot in custom made Monique Lhuillier?) will heavily benefit from the to die for look she created for the masquerade ball scene. This dress is too good to be true! What I love the most about it, is that I can easily picture Dakota Johnson in such a gown in real life. It's the most perfect 21st century Gatsby look I've ever seen, bow down! Costume designer Shay Cunliffe has truly outdone herself. Bravo, bravo, bravo! (Also: It's all about the lip(stick).)

Ana's masquerade ball look

Dress: Monique Lhuillier

Cape: Monique Lhuillier (Created in collaboration with Shay Cunliffe) You have to see this stunning feather cape in motion, not a single picture can do it justice.
Lipstick: lips filled with the MAC lip pencil Burgundy and finished with G Jam lip stain by Glossier
Mask: Samantha Peach 'Silver Lace Goddess Mask' http://www.samanthapeach.co.uk/

This mask is as fairy and delicate as Dakota herself. This particular piece became the shining star of the movie. It's on every big poster, Taylor Swift and Zane's single cover and the new edition of E.L. James' book cover. Big applause to Samantha Peach, she truly deserves it! I don't think that any other piece would have created such an effect. This look will go down in the history of costume design!       Just look for yourself...

Ana's birthday/ engagement party look

Dress: Narciso Rodriguez

Lipstick: Every make up enthusiast is curious about Ana's red lips. Make up artist Evelyne Noraz contoured Dakota's lips with the MAC Cherry lip pencil and used the MAC Retro Matte liquid lipstick in Feel So Grand.

Nothing is more dangerous than a beautiful woman in a red dress...

Ana's 'shower outfit'
I know, how could one even think about fashion during a scene this hot?! Me! ;) I mean, it's good to know which kind of outfit might provoke a moment like that. It was very hard to find out who desined this blouse which is so Ana (you know, all floral with a hint of raunchy). But I could not possibly give up the search and here it is: The 'Soris' blouse by Isabel Marant Étoile

2. Dopest soundtrack of the year

We all remember the ultimate star of 2015's Fifty Shades Of Grey: Queen B! Beyonce and The Weeknd provided the sexiest soundtrack ever. I admit that it is barely possible to top that tracklist but nonetheless the OST to Fifty Shades Darker is absolute fire! Zane and Taylor Swift's song I Don't Wanna Live Forever is this year's version of Ellie Goulding's Love Me Like You Do - A perfectly light yet catchy soulful love song with a touch of electro and a very modern vibe.

But this is not my favorite track - The dopest song on the soundtrack is hands down Not Afraid Anymore by Halsey. This unbelievably hot track is as perfectly raunchy as Beyonce's Haunted and as seductive as the 2015 rework of Crazy In Love. (And combined with the scene it was featured in... this was straight up gold!)

3. The preview

The fact that the film ends with the trailer of Fifty Shades Freed (so don't leave the theatre when the credits appear or you'll miss the sexy teaser!), which will apparently hit the big screen just in time for Valentine's Day 2018, might have been an attempt to make up for the lack of ... well... 'plot' in Fifty Shades Darker. Don't get me wrong, there's a lot going on but at the end you yet feel like the biggest Oh moment is yet to come...

All in all Fifty Shades Darker is certainly worth the hype. Go check it out! ;)
xx
M

THE CHINCHILLA CLUB

Robert DeNiro, gold, diamonds, silk sheets and chinchilla - did Marty Scorsese direct a slice of heaven? Chinchilla is arguably the most controversial fur in the clothing industry. Its silky feel reminds us of forbidden, almost sinful luxury. In the Western world nothing raises more eyebrows (and stereotypes) than a gorgeous woman in a chinchilla coat. In Russia on the other hand, fur is considered to be the epitome of a woman's... well, let's call it "success". Fur and diamonds are things women should never have to buy for themselves. You know how they say "build a house, plant a tree, father a son"? In Russia we would say "marry a generous man who will buy you beautiful gifts, precious jewels and the most stunning fur coats anyone has ever seen" - something like that. ;) This is The Russian Dream. This dream remained the same for centuries. Meanwhile fur trends continued to change and redefine the interpretation of the concept. While Soviet women used to dream of mink and sable, the 1990's new money generation (commonly referred to as Russian oligarchy) established a trend of their own. Chinchilla fur became the symbol of the era. Throughout the decades chinchilla also won over the hip hop industry and defined the visuals for the most hottest songs of the millennium. The Love Doctor rocked a stunning hooded chinchilla coat in the epic Candy Shop music video. 50 looooves his chinchilla coats. He wore them for red carpet appearances, photo shoots and random clubbing night outs. His music raised us and his style became iconic. Thank you 50!

Are you guys excited for Christmas?! Stay tuned for the best high street Christmas party looks.

xx
M

KENZOxH&M - SHOPPING EXPERIENCE

It's not even afternoon... but I feel like it's effing midnight! I woke up at for 4am and waited in line for hours! November the 3rd you know what it izzzz: KENZOxH&M is finally available in selected stores and online! Those who woke up early enough were rewarded with an exclusive and enjoyable shopping experience thanks to the recently introduced wristband system. When Jimmy Choo offered the unique opportunity to buy affordable designer heels back in 2009, people went crazy - I remember fashion-hungry maniacs screaming and fighting. It was absolutely hilarious! Now it is much more civilized. ;) But H&M did not only improve the shopping experience. The annual collaborations became an essential part of the fashion calendar.

Camping for the goodies: KENZOxH&M

FREE MEEERRRCHHHH!!!!

Every year they come up with something new and every single collection becomes unforgettable. Last year Balmain performed an excellent marketing strategy occupying Instagram for months.The man responsible for the insane hype was obviously the one and only Olivier Rousteing who perfectly incorporated the Jenner sisters in the promotional process. KENZO is a whole different animal. The label is known for unique prints and exotic glamour. A couple of years ago KENZO surprised the fashion scene with an unexpected renaissance. Their Kenzo Jungle jumpers, which were inspired by one of the original themes of the Japanese designer, became a must-have for every famous blogger, editor and just generally every bougie cool kid. KENZO officially won over Generation Y. Some might remember a slightly different KENZO aesthetic which ruled the 80s and 90s (back then with founder and creative genius Kenzō Takada). KENZO was the label of choice for successful and creative women of all age who established the concept of a girl boss in big production companies, trendy art galleries and influential publishing houses. Therefore the H&M marketing team went for a much more low key, smart, fresh and yet mature strategy. KENZOxH&M felt like one of those perfect Upper West Side parties where Harvey Weinstein would casually share a laugh with Asap Rocky. I absolutely love the collab! Brave designs, signature pieces, loud prints and just the right amount of cotton candy pink (#WhereMy90sSquadAt) - The collection is brilliant! My personal favourites are definitely the shades, the iconic Kenzo Jungle t-shirts (remember how they were always sold out?) and the breathtaking silk blouse and maxi skirt combo. I could drool over those prints and fabrics for hours! But see for yourself... ;)

Stay tuned for more looks! ;)

LOVE

M

REPRESENT CUBA, TE QUIERO HAVANA

Unbearable heat, expensive cigars, breathtaking contrasting architecture, stunning colourful retro cars and handsome dancers with eyes as sparkly as Cuban rum - HAVANA. This city is so full of history and so rich in stories and tales that it became one of the most epic destinations for artists, designers and musicians. We've seen countless editorials featuring Havana's signature streets and buildings: From Linda Evangelista's legendary 1989 Steven Meisel shoot to Sara Sampaio in an 2012 ELLE España editorial photographed by Xavi Gordon.
La Linda 1989

2012 Havana shoot for ELLE España

Vogue Spain kicked off spring 2016 with Anais Mali photographed by Benny Horne

The magic of Cuba makes us dream about those endless summer parties and unforgettable romances à la Dirty Dancing-Havana Nights. I would love to see and experience Havana for a week or two! As you guys know I'm a notorious car enthusiast and art lover, I'm sure there's a lot to see. Tonight I'll probably dream about a night out in Havana with some Tony Ward type. ;)
The Kardashians are currently enjoying the Cuban sun during a fun family vacation. Love those Twitter pics! Cigars, folkloric fashion and yellow gold - Havana!

No wonder Karl decided to grab his Chanel entourage, favourite models (including Brad Kroenig and cutie Hudson) and new brilliant designs to take a fun trip to the Caribbean. The result? An absolutely original, incredibly beautiful and purely stunning cruise collection for the 2016/17 season! My favourites were the sequin minies in those mouthwatering candy colours: Mint ice cream, bubblegum pink, green apple, lemon tarte and an antique car print which made my heart skip a beat! This show was too good to be true, a 21st century fairytale full of fashion, music and travel lust. 
The beautiful sisters Lisa-Kaindé Diaz and Naomi Diaz opened the show slaying just like in Beyonce's Lemonade

Funky party with Maison Michel hats

I'M IN LOVE! CHANEL IS THE ONE & ONLY, UNBEATABLE! Get your LVs, Diors or whatever the hell you're carrying out of my face, I want to see nothing but the CC! ;)

I wish you guys a great weekend full of Havana magic
xx
M