la maison de mr. blahnik

These photos of Manolo Blahnik’s home (I believe it’s in Paris), shot by Ivan Terestchenko, made my morning. His raspberry and pink striped sofa reminds me of peppermint candy... so sumptuous. And I love that Terestchenko shot the designer’s workroom. It almost could pass for the average joe’s garage-- that is, until you get to the custom wooden lasts and couture stilettos on the counter. Mr. Blahnik, you kill me ;)

(photos by Ivan Terestchenko; via)

alexa chung: accidentally famous

I’ve always wondered exactly why Alexa Chung was famous, but I never took the time to  research + find out. The article (1, 2, 3) that accompanies these photos from her November 2010 editorial in Elle UK finally put my queries to rest. The piece, written by Avril Mair, is rather flattering-- Alexa seems like coolest girl (she claims her fame was an accident). On a slightly different note, isn’t that leopard hat to die for? It’s by the long-established London milliner, James Lock & Co. I want one! Oh Alexa, be my friend?!

(photos by David Vasiljevic; via)

louis vuitton's quirky guide to parisian pâtisseries

I’m beguiled by this quirky guide to Parisian pâtisseries produced by Louis Vuitton. LV says that though the city of lights “... is the world’s food capitol, Paris oddly enough has very few real pastry specialties.” Covering everything from le Saint Honoré to Ladurée, this 2:42 film will leave you feeling as if you’re an expert on Parisian sweets (or at the very least, will leave you craving macaroons). Dessert for breakfast, anyone?

on this day in history...

1884:
Anna Eleanor Roosevelt, the much loved wife of President Franklin D. Roosevelt,
was born to Elliott and Anna Hall Roosevelt at the couple's first home,
located at 56 West 37th Street in New York City.

(image)

nick olsen style

Do you ladies remember Nick Olsen? He blogged for Domino back in the day as the “deal hunter” (he is known in the industry for his extraordinary ability to design high-style rooms on the cheap). Mr. Olsen was Miles Redd’s protege-- can’t you tell by the glossy walls?! His apartment is featured as this week's NYSD home tour... I am in love. Those walls + painted floors are too much. Can you believe that he bought that sofa for $40 when he was only fourteen years old? Incredible. Be sure to check out the rest of his apartment (and his blog!). His home is truly a work of art :)