MaiTai's Picture Book

As many of you guessed already, my new scarf addition is the magnificent Parures de Samouraïs! The fantastic detailing seems to have stolen everyone's heart, and it is no surprise that it is said to be the bestseller of the season. I am so thrilled to own another stunning Aline Honoré silk, I adore her work and most of my favorite scarves are designed by her. What's more it's offered in so many beautiful colorways that it is hard to choose just one. For all I know, my choice (CW05 ébène/bleu/orange) might have been influenced by walking past the corner window on Faubourg Saint-Honore just moments before approaching the scarf counter....

As a belt with a MaiTai Collection mineral statement necklace in orange

Style sheet for the above and below

Capsule pieces: black trousers, blue tunic blouse (above) and white layered top (below)

Accessories (above and below): Hermes Parures de Samouraïs 90 scarf and a black croc Kelly Dog bracelet. MaiTai Collection Howlite necklace in orange. Above: Hermes Mini Kelly in black croc. Below: Mini Caba in black natural (availablehere)
Shoes: patent leather flats in nude (Tory Burch) and patent leather black pumps (Roger Vivier)

Adding a new scarf to one's wardrobe is always exciting... it is fun to explore how it works with existing wardrobe pieces, whether they are new additions or favorite staples. In addition, a scarf's design or color combinations may evoke memories of captured images or places visited in the past, inspiring new outfit ideas. These associations are often subconscious, but this time I know it's because we recently met a lovely group of friends, and one of the couples was from Barcelona. It made me think of the fun times we had there, and how magnificent the vivid colours and patterns on some of the building's details were. The tiled columns in thePalau de la Música form a happy union and stand in beautiful harmony, just as the many colors and patterns of the Parures de Samouraïs!

in a cowboy knot ends secured behind the neck with a petite scarf ring in a basic slide (you can make a small double knot instead) and with the new Mini Caba straw bag, as above (available here)

More memories of Barcelona, and the fun lunch we had at the Cuines Santa Caterina

basic bias fold

Reverse basic bias fold - bringing out the blues

Also new, in the theme of blue - MaiTai Collection linen table runner (available here)

100% linen. Made in France.

Style sheet for the above and below

Capsule pieces: blue tunic blouse with blue trousers (above) and white jeans (below)

Accessories: Hermes Parures de Samouraïs 90 scarf, clic-clac enamel bracelet in Bleu Indiens. Evelyne PM in Bleu Agate (above) and Picotin MM in Sanguine (below).
Scarf tie: Reversed basic bias fold with a MaiTai Collection Anneau Infinity in black horn (available here). MaiTai Collection Howlite necklace in orange (available here) and Mini Caba straw basket in natural/black (available here)

Shoes: patent leather flats in nude (Tory Burch)

Orange and blue.. La Mamounia, Marrakech in 2015

Asymmetrical wrap (click here for a how-to) with a MaiTai Collection statement pearl necklace in blanc/ivoire (available here) Hermes Evelyne PM bag in Bleu Agate and Elephant printed enamel bracelet.

Cowboy knot as above. MaiTai Collection Sparkling Crystal Earrings in dove grey (available here) and Mini Caba straw bag in black/natural (available here)

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For my birthday last month we went to an old favorite, the Colombe d'Or in Saint-Paul de Vence. I was yearning for its peaceful atmosphere and found myself dreaming of a long alfresco lunch on their terrace. We hadn't been there for more than a decade, so I was wondering if it would still be the way I remembered it, and whether it would have retained the laid back atmosphere I loved on previous visits. As soon as we arrived it was clear in an instant that it had. What a joy.

Some elements of staying at the Colombe d'Or make you feel as though you're staying at a friend's house, but a friend who has the most amazing modern art collection on the walls.

The history goes back to the 1920's when farmer Paul Roux opened a café where the locals could come for drinks and home cooked food, and dancing at the weekends. In the mid-twentieth century, many artists moved to the hills above the Côte d'Azur, and Roux's cafe became one of their favorite spots. Roux had a feeling for art and artists, and cultivated friendships with his clientele, offering those who were struggling, food and accomadation in exchange for paintings and drawings. Over time of course, Roux amassed a stunning art collection consisting of exchanged and commissioned pieces including works by Picasso, Matisse, Chagall, Léger, Braque, Mirò and many more. So now famous pieces as well as those of unknown artists, line the walls of the dining rooms and corridors, while sculptures and mosaics frame the terraces and pool area. The tradition is carried on by Roux's son and his wife, who continue to expand the collection while keeping the esprit and soul of the Colombe d'Or intact.

the reception area

Dining under the stars...the walls of the main dining room lined with paintings by some of the 20th Century’s greatest artists...They're hung unostentatiously without labels or placques. The presentation is simple and confident, each painting lit by a single uplight covered with a pretty shell. The juxtaposition of the importance and value of these pieces, together with the casual unpretentiousness in which they are displayed creates a unique and very special atmosphere...it is an inspirational and romantic setting, and a wonderful place to eat your dinner.

The rooms too are furnished in a simple rustic provençal style, and decorated with colored tiles and rugs and, of course, paintings and drawings from the Roux family's collection. Most have small private balconies or terraces, and I loved our romantic little terrace with its beautiful view over Saint-Paul de Vence's town center.

Breakfast in bed is a rare and special treat.. what could be a better on a birthday than to bite into a buttery croissant while opening gifts and reading cards! Alexandra Shulman's Inside Vogue book turned out to be a fascinating insight into the workings of British Vogue's 100th birthday celebrations (plenty of gossip too). A perfect summer read!

the bar..

.. which seems unchanged since Pablo used to come in for a drink

lounging with my book in a new kaftan (a find from accross the street the day before, details further down). Long gemstone necklace in or (similar available here)

a 'golden' Mirò in the dining room

a peek from the street into the courtyard

There are many reasons I love the Colombe d'Or, and having a meal on its secluded and beautiful terrace is definitely one of them. It is the perfect place for a long lunch, and I only wish the picture below would have captured its magic better... it's a haven of tranquility and conviviality, where you can relax and enjoy delicious and simple fresh mediterranean food and local wines, and even find yourself exchanging a word or two with your fellow diners... We met such a lovely group of people!

the house starter (best to be shared).. an hors d'oeuvres platter consisting of at least a dozen small dishes

a Léger mural of the hotel’s namesake, only in red

Getting ready for dinner, wearing a Parures de Samouraïs 90 carré in a basic bias fold with a MaiTai Collection gemstone necklace in or (a new version is available here)

the golden dove

Let's explore the town!

Damier shawl in a basic bias fold and MaiTai Collection Double Anneau necklace in or (available here)

Saint Paul de Vence is an especially picturesque and charming little village perched high up in the hills above Nice and the Côte d'Azur. It's not surprising that it attracted so many artists to live and work here, and that it has become such a popular place to visit. It is probably a good idea to avoid going during high season, when it does get very busy!

Happy making sidewalks!

every corner you turn is picture perfect

A few years ago, the traditional French parfum house Fragonard was taken over by its heirs. The three sisters brought their passion for colorful and uncomplicated clothing and home decoration into the company, and expanded the fragrance line to include light and summery tunics, kaftans and robes, along with table ware and table linen, travel kits and a small collection of jewellry. The fabrics of the tunics are lightweight but not transparent, which makes them perfect for the upcoming hot summer months. The long blue kaftan (left below) came home with me, along with a couple of shorter blouses and, of course, some of the beautifully packaged soaps and interior scents.

The fragrances and a selection of the homeware products can be bought online, where you can also find the locations and opening hours of their Parisian and other provençal boutiques.

On Saint-Paul de Vence's main street, the 'Grand Rue' you'll find two shops by the same owner... Saveurs Sucrées specializes in sweets, teas, honeys, biscuits and jams, whereas the other, Saveurs Salées, offers truffels, mustards, terrines, spices, sauces and beautifully made olive wood spoons, bowls and boards. Both places are perfect for picking up little gifts... the produce is regional and artisanal, made by provençal Maison Bremond 1830.

Saveurs Sucrées

French market baskets serve as shopping trolleys

Saveurs Salées

La Colombe d'Or: 1 Place du Général de Gaulle, 06570 Saint-Paul de Vence

Phone: +33 (0)4 93 32 80 02

www.la-colombe-dor.com

Inside Vogue by Alexandra Shulman, available on Amazon: click here

Fragonard Boutique, Chemin Ste Claire, 06570 St-Paul de Vence. Tél : 04 93 58 58 58
www.fragonard.com

Aux Saveurs Sucrées et Salées, 68 RUE GRANDE - 06570 SAINT-PAUL DE VENCE Phone: +33 (04) 93 24 09 68
www.maison-bremond-1830.com

Saint Paul de Vence (general): www.saint-pauldevence.com

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Those who follow me on Instagram have probably already seen my other scarf of this season.. the Parures de Samouräis in bleu ciel/vert/marron (CW04). I adore this design and I couldn't resist adding a second CW to my collection.

Its beautiful soft colors make it a perfect summer scarf, and when knotted and worn it has a very different feel to its more vibrant cousin that I bought a few weeks earlier. As always, the most fun part of adding a new scarf is to explore different knots, wardrobe and color combinations, and to find out how to bring out particular colors or characteristics of the design.

With perfect timing, the new generation long gemstone necklaces in pretty summery colors, and the new freshwater pearl collar necklaces and cluster earrings arrived shortly afterwards and joined the fun right away!

In a cowboy knot (ends tied behind the neck in a basic slide with a Petite scarf ring in Mother of Pearl, but you can make a small double knot instead). A long gemstone necklace in Rose Thé/Tiger's Eye/Smokey Quarz adds a discreet sparkle and keeps the scarf flat in place (available here)

In the basic bias fold and with a long gemstone necklace in Thé Rose/Prehnite/Labradorite (available here)

Variation - change of pants and necklace (with Crystal waterfall in champagne, coming soon)

In a basic bias fold, ends secured behind the back in a basic slide with a Petite Classique scarf ring (you can make a small double knot instead). Long gemstone necklace in sage (available here)

Basic bias fold with Double Anneau necklace in or (available here) and Cabas summer bag in natural/navy/stripes (available here)

Variation with a pearl collar necklace in ivoire (new, available here), Cabas summer bag as before

In an asymmetrical wrap (click here for a how-to) and with a pearl necklace and matching earrings in champagne (available here)

Variation with the scarf in the basic bias fold

George basket in black/naturel (here) and long gemstone necklace in burgundy (here)

In a pleated rectangular fold with a Cabas straw bag (available here) and a long gemstone necklace in sage (available here)

Knot close-up (click here for a how-to)

Asymmetrical wrap and long gemstone necklace in Gris/Prehnite/Garnet (here)

Fresh water pearl cluster earrings in champagne (available here), pleated rectangular knot as above

Make a wish!

Pastels

Cabas straw bag (here) and a long gemstone necklace in Gris/Prehnite/Garnet (here)

As above, with a long gemstone necklace in Rose Thé/Prehnite/Labradorite (available here)

Also new - additional pyjama and kimono colors and patterns

Toile de Jouy pyjamas in Framboise (also comes in Bleu Ciel and Gris/Bleu, available here)

Chinoiserie kimono and pyjama bottoms in the new Thé Bleu (also comes in Thé Rouge). Available here

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Summer's now well established, and as the days have been getting warmer, scarves have been taking a little bit of back seat. On cool fresh mornings and evenings they still come out, but I wear them in loose drapes and folds, or as a belt.

As the temperature goes up, I rely on necklaces to give my summer outfits a touch of color and chic. I love wearing them in combination with a scarf, but when it gets too hot and the scarves have to be stored away, a necklace can always pull the look together instead.

Very happy to introduce two beautiful new waterfall necklaces today... both are light and easy to wear statement pieces, and entirely made by hand. I selected eight capsule wardrobe pieces (details at the bottom of the post) as a canvas on which to play with the new necklaces and also some of my favorite summer scarves. The capsule pieces may look sombre at first glance, but they are easy to mix and match and go from day to night, which makes them a perfect summer travel wardrobe, too. The suggestions below are just some of the many possible combinations which you can use to brighten up these pieces and give them a summery touch. Hoping that you enjoy the post and have a wonderful summer!

Accessories provide the perfect opportunity to highlight specific colors or parts of your scarf, and give a focus point to your outfit when the silk becomes too warm around your neck. Bringing out the blues of a Parures de Samourais(CW05) with a crystal waterfall necklace in Duck Blue (available here) and an Hermes Clic Clac H bracelet in Bleu Indiens.

Variation with a dark blue top and the pastel version of the Parures de Samourais (CW04) worn as a belt, teamed with a Crystal waterfall necklace in Miel/Champagne

As above, but bringing out the scarf's green and teal parts with a Crystal waterfall necklace in Vert Nil

Scarf and necklace as above, but with a grey top instead of the blue, and the scarf tied into an asymmetrical wrap Bag: Caba in navy/stripes/natural (available here)

Change of accessories.. Hermes Zebra Pegasus 90 carré in the basic bias fold with an Elephant printed enamel bracelet. MTC Crystal Waterfall necklace in dove grey

Another favorite summer scarf from previous collections...Aux Pays des Epices 90 carré in the basic bias fold with an Clic H enamel bracelet in marron glacé and a MTC Gemstone waterfall necklace in Gris/Taupe/Argile (available here)

Mousseline scarves are a breeze to wear in the summer.. even GMs are airy and light as a feather. Hermes Fantaisies Indiennes GM mousseline in the basic bias fold with a rose gold and black lizard Charniere bracelet. MaiTai Collection Gemstone waterfall necklace in Sienna/Ecru/Champagne (available here)

It's always fun to discover how to fold a scarf to bring out its different parts and colors. Here folding the Parures de Samourais (CW04) into a wide basic bias and wearing it as a belt with the ends secured in the basic slide behind the back, which almost completely eliminates the beige elements, making it look like a different scarf. Also wearing an Hermes Charniere bracelet in rose gold/black lizard and a MaiTai Collection Gemstone waterfall necklace as above. Clutch by Zara.

Cashmere GMs are wonderful companions on cooler summer evenings, and can make a perfect substitute for a jacket on days when sun and clouds can't decide who's to stay or who's to go. Hermes Ceintures et Liens cashmere shawl in the basic bias fold with a Clic Clac H bracelet in BlueIndiens. MaiTai Collection Gemstone Waterfall necklace in Aquamarine/Turquoise (available here)

Sometimes it just needs just a couple of accessories to turn simple wardrobe staples into a casual chic look. Hermes Aux Pays des Epices 90 carré in the basic bias fold (ends secured behind the back in the basic slide). MaiTai Collection Long Gemstone necklace in Gris/Prehnite/Garnet (available here)

Teaming the new Gemstone waterfall necklace in Gris/Taupe/Argile (available here) with a MaiTai Collection hand-embroidered stole in Gris Perle (available here)

Casual alternative... PdS (CW04) in a basic bias fold and a MaiTai Collection Gemstone waterfall necklace in Sienna/Ecru/Champagne, echoing the red tassel in the corner of the scarf. Caba bag in black/natural (available here)

Even the coolest scarf can feel sometimes too warm... accessorising here in black with an Hermes Kelly Dog bracelet in matte croc, a MaiTai Collection Crystal Cluster necklace in charcoal (available here) and a Zara studded clutch (the Crystal Cluster necklaces also comes in Cinnamon Rose, Lavender Grey and Champagne)

CAPSULE PIECES

Tops: sleeveless black top (Agnès B), long sleeve grey T-shirt (Max Mara), Black blouse (Zara), dark blue cropped tunic blouse (Gerard Darel)

Trousers: Black trousers (Apriori), Blue Jeans (AG), white jeans (Vince), navy trousers (Max Mara)

ACCESSORIES (from left to right):

Left:shawl travel pochette in peacock containing a Hermes Ceintures et Liens cashmere shawl and Fantaisies Indiennes mousseline and a MaiTai Collection embroidered stole in Gris Perle. On top of the Pochette: MaiTai Collection gemstone waterfall necklaces (in aquamarine/turquoise, gris/taupe/argile and sienna/ecru/champagne)

Centre:MaiTai Collection Jewellry organizer in Bleu Marine, filled with Hermes bracelets (Clic Clac H in bleu Indiens, Kelly Dog in black croc, Elephants and Torana printed enamel bracelets, Clic H in marron glacé, Charnière in rose gold/black lizard) and a MaiTai Colletion long gemstone necklace in Gris/Prehnite/Garnet

Right:90 carré travel pochette filled with four Hermes 90 carrés: Parures de Samourais CW 04 and 05), Zebra Pegasus and Aux Pays des Epices. MaiTai Collection Crystal Waterfall necklaces (Duck Blue, Vert Nil, Champagne and Dove Grey) on top.

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It's been a while since we were in Marseille, and as so often with places that are close, one tends to forget that they are there. I've been so busy recently and was longing for a break.. to relax for a couple of days, read, enjoy lovely meals and not do much of anything at all.

We came across Le Petite Nice when we were in Marseille a couple of years ago walking along the Corniche Kennedy. You follow the sign off the street down a narrow alley, and then suddenly, this is what you see. It looked so beautiful and inviting that we went in for a drink on the terrace, and as we were enjoying a cold crisp glass of white wine overlooking the Mediterranean, I knew we'd be back one day to spend a couple nights in its calm and tranquil atmosphere.

Le Petit Nice has a family history going back a hundred years. It was bought by Germain Passedat in 1917, who made some additions and improvements and passed the reins to his son Jean-Paul in 1954, who made some more additions and improvements (and who incidentally still greets diners at the bar), and now it is run by his son, the celebrated chef Gérard Passedat, who has made it what it is today. The kitchen has a glass wall looking out onto the alley, so that anyone walking past can watch him and his team prepare the dishes that earned him his 3* Michelin status in 2008.

lunch preparations

Imagine how fabulous it would be to have your meal in the kitchen!

You don't have to be an aficionado of three-star dining to have a wonderful time at the Le Petit Nice.. it is such a welcoming place and such a beautiful setting. The calm, light rooms are stylish and elegant and have amazing views over the Mediterranean sea.. the perfect place to relax and unwind. It was pure bliss to settle down in the room, let the soft breeze float through open windows, and listen to seagulls while reading in bed or lounging on the private terrace.

When the Passedat family bought it in 1917 it was the 'Villa Eugenie'. Then later, because of of its beautiful setting and many improvements and refinements, it was re-named the Petit Nice. Personally, I think of it as the Petit Paradis!

Wearing the kaftan I bought on my birthday trip to St-Paul de Vence in May with an Hermes Kelly Double Tour bracelet in Ebene and MaiTai Collection Double Anneau necklace in Or (available here)

I'm often asked where I get inspiration for my outfits, and the answer is everywhere.. the plants and furniture on the terrace and the colored accents in our room provided me with plenty of ideas for new colour combinations, 'modeled' by my Parures de Samourais, a scarf which has quickly become a favorite in my collection.

What a wonderful surprise to find a turn table and vinyl records in our room. The Parures de Samouraïs was 'right in tune' with the album I pulled out!

Chartreuse!

The next day... feeling rested already. Cavallerie d'Etriers GM and MaiTai Collection Pearl collar necklace in blanc/ivoire (available here)

Grey and white capsule pieces as above. They are easy summer staples as you can style them in many different ways, which makes them a perfect travelling wardrobe, too.

Capsule pieces: Grey t-shirt and white jeans

Accessories left: Hermes Cavalleria d'Etriers cashmere GM, 35 Birkin in Gris-T and Elephant enamel bracelet. Breakpoint sneakers by Converse.

Right: Hermès Parures de Samourais 90 Carré. MaiTai Collection Pearl Collar necklace in blanc/ivoire (available here) and light brown sandals

Le Petit Nice-Passedat, Anse de Maldormé, Cornique JF Kennedy, 13007 Marseille, France
Tel: +33 491 592 592

For hotel information and reservations clickhere
For restaurant information and reservations clickhere

www.passedat.fr/en

With the new season scarves and booklets already in the shops, the give-away of the SS2017 booklet comes a little bit late. But for anyone who missed out on a copy, here's your chance to win one!

Entering the give-away does not involve a task, but if you'd like to support mine or the Wiener Boys Instagram page, it would be much appreciated.

The Wiener Boys: www.instagram.com/the.wiener.boys

MaiTai Collection: www.instagram.com/maitaicollection

Thanks so much and wishing you the best of luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Please note that your email address will not be publicly displayed, or forwarded to third parties. You can choose any username/nick/ID to enter the giveaway. The winners will be randomly chosen, notified and announced on August 5th. One entry per person, open to readers worldwide. The booklets will be sent to the winners free of shipping charges within 24 hours of receiving a delivery address.

Email subscribers: The giveaway widget will not appear on your email message. To participate, please visit the blog directly by clicking here

I hope everyone has been having a happy and beautiful summer so far! Here in Southern France it's been very hot as usual at this time of year, so when it gets to holiday time, we tend to do the opposite to the rest of Europe... by the time most people are migratimg to the South to soak up the sunshine, we've already had too much of it! This year, we combined fresh weather, a beach holiday and a city trip by going to Holland. We headed to the Dutch coast first for some relaxation, followed by a few days in Amsterdam for some city fun.

Windmills, flowers, cheese and bicycles.. you know instantly which country you are in!

For the first part of our trip we went to a little place by the sea called Noordwijk, less than an hour from Amsterdam. I found it when I was looking for somewhere that had lovely beach clubs and a cool hotel by the dunes. The idea was to unwind and do nothing much other than walk, settle down for the day on a lounger with a book, and drop by the beach restaurants for lunch or dinner.

The weather was beautiful and fresh, the beaches uncrowded and the sand cool and pristine. Feeling much recuperated after a couple of days, we decided to explore the unspoilt natural dunes and woods that surround Noordwjik. Hiking trails and cycling paths criss-cross through a vast area of lovely countryside with stunning views over the North Sea, bulb fields and rugged dunes. Following a tip from a friend (lieben Dank Ch.!), we rented battery assisted bikes and it was fantastic. It doesn't mean that you don't push into the pedals, but the days of struggling uphill or fighting against headwinds are simply in the past. You just turn the switch to turbo, and on you sail.

Turbo mode!

Dogs are very welcome in most places, although the Wiener Boys had been chauffeured off for a holiday with their mother Loulou (it's a short form of her pedigree name, which is much too long.. it consists of six words and 28 letters!), because I didn't think they would have enjoyed the Amsterdam part of our trip so much.

The calm and cool Vesper hotel is such a relaxing and welcoming place and in the perfect location (three lovely beach clubs are tucked away behind the dunes within a stone's throw).

The Caba bag (available here) was a great companion, blending right in with the overall blue and white color scheme.

the Vesper Hotel's fresh and modern interior

the breakfast terrace, also open for lunch and dinner

So wonderful to sit in the sun by the sea.. without the heat.

The Vesper's rooms all have a different decor, and I just loved the lightness and elegant simplicity of ours

The Branding Beach Club.. perfect for lunch, dinner or spending all day..

Watching the sun go down over the North Sea while having dinner was amazing. In the daytime the water is a deep blue or dark slate color, but when the sun sets, everything mellows and turns into soft pastel shades, until it eventually disappears in a milky haze. If it's a cloudless sky, the sun sets as a deep red fire ball, painting the ocean and sky with shades of pink, purple, gold and scarlet.

Starter for two

Another evening, another beautiful sunset

The Bries beach club next door is fabulous too. As in all the places we've been to in Holland, the staff are incredibly warm, friendly and welcoming, and the food fresh, delicious and beautifully presented in stylish surroundings.

Goodbye Noordwijk, it's been a wonderful time!

Amsterdam next (coming soon)

Vesper Hotel:
Kon. Astrid Boulevard 46, 2202 BE Noordwijk, Netherlands.
+31 71 800 9988
www.vesperhotel.com

Bike hire Noordwjik: Mooijekind, Schoolstraat 45 , 2202 HD Noordwijk.
Tel: +31 71 361 2826

Nederzandt Beach Club:
Langevelderslag 44-46, 2204 AH Noordwijk, Netherlands,
+31 252 372 430 www.etenbijnederzandt.nl

Bries Beach Club:
Kon. Astrid Boulevard 102, 2202 BD Noordwijk, Netherlands. +31 71 361 7891
www.briesnoordwijk.nl

Branding Beach Club:
Kon. Astrid Boulevard 105, 2202 BD Noordwijk, Netherlands,
+31 71 511 9494
www.brandingbeach.nl

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After a wonderfully relaxing time at Holland's seaside (clickhere), we were looking forward to a few days in Amsterdam to explore Dutch city life. Again we were so impressed by how friendly, warm and welcoming everyone is (and speaking perfect English, too).

Amsterdam's picturesque canals are flanked by beautiful narrow buildings, constructed by merchants who became wealthy in the 17th century, Amsterdam's Golden Age. Holland's trade, military art and science was on top of the world, and brought enormous wealth to the city.

Most people cross town on bicycles... the young, the old, and everyone in between. Bikes outnumber cars by far, and it has the wonderful side effect of greatly reducing engine noise and pollution, which contributes so much to the laid-back atmosphere of this pretty city.

The 'De Negen Straatjes' (Nine Streets) is located in the heart of the historic canal district and is a lovely neighbourhood to explore: Nine picturesque streets span three blocks and canals and are lined with shops, cafes, art galleries and restaurants.

We stayed at the chic and stylish Dylan hotel, located on the Keizersgraacht in the heart of the Negen Straatjes. The rooms and suites are beautifully decorated, making you feel at home away from home. It also has a cool bar (Occo), romantic inner courtyard and a Michelin starred restaurant (Vinkeles) under its roof.

Lounge area at the Dylan

the bar / Occa Brasserie

loved the calm and balanced decor of our room

the inner courtyard - a stylish and tranquil place for an alfresco meal or afternoon tea

On our first day I found this tunic dress by Scandinavian designer Filippa K (available here) in the Nine Streets and it became an instant favorite. You can dress it up or down with a simple change of accessories (here with a MaiTai Collection Double Anneau necklace in noir/or, available here), which makes it a perfect travel companion. Teamed with trousers and boots it will be great for the coming winter and autumn months too.

Holland has always been progressive and I've never seen so many electric cars in any city. Charging stations are everywhere, and some of the cars are so small that they never have the problem of finding a parking space. I was just wondering how anyone could get into them...

And then.. apparently no problem for a family of three!

The Cornelis Schuytstraat is another great area for shopping, and you also come across plenty of lovely little restaurants and cafés. Holland's most famous exports are flowers, and at the Menno Kroon Concept Store you see a very lovely and beautiful selection.

Cornelis Schuytstraat

In keeping with the general laid back atmosphere, many boutiques have benches where you (and your tired shopping companions) can have a rest..

If after a day's walking you find yourself thinking of a coffee or a little something, be careful not to pick up a muffin from the counter of a 'coffeshop'... unless you'd like to 'alter your state of mind' that is. What may look like an ordinary muffin could in fact be a space cake, infused with hash or weed, whatever the preference. Other items on the menu include a variety of pre-rolled joints, hash by the gram, as well as regular coffees and soft drinks. Ordinary cafés are called 'coffee houses', so be sure to enter the right kind!

Coffeeshop offerings

My new dress, worn tunic style with a white pair of jeans.

Dating back to 1683.. 'It really does not matter' What a great motto.

Missed the Wiener Boys (click here to see their IG page) of course, and found myself stalking dachshunds.. this one had a leash matching his owner's dress!

Nine Streets quarter..

For an evening out, wearing the tunic dress by Maje I bought last year (click here to see the blog post), accessorised with a Kelly Pochette in black croc, MaiTai Collection Double Anneau necklace, Charniere bracelet in black lizard/rosé gold and Dior (Frisson2) sunglasses.

Where to eat, drink and stay

1. The Rijks, right next to the Rijks museum

All wines, cheeses and spirits served at the Rijks have a Dutch connection.. if not actually produced in Holland, then wine makers, distillers or cheese makers of Dutch origin.

The chic modern interior. The evening was so lovely and mild that everyone was dining on the terrace instead.

The Côtes de Provence Fleur de l'Amaurigue rosé (by Dutch de Groot winemaker family) was excellent and reminded us of home.

I love restaurants with an open kitchen, it is always fun to see the chefs at work. At the Rijks the shelves are lined with cookery books, and the ingredients laid out on the counter almost prompt you to ask 'can I chop some onions?'

Cheese from Holland, of course!

2. The Duchess - A fantastic venue (it used to be a bank) and a fun menu.. all courses are meant to be shared, so you end up with plenty of different dishes. Most of the former KSK bank's features are still intact.. the ornamented ceiling, marbled counters, and huge stand-alone clock are in striking contrast to the ultra modern screens and the open kitchen. It's a fabulous mix, lit by huge chandeliers and candle lights.

3. Right across the street from the Duchess you find the W lounge bar with and Mr Porter restaurant. If you book at the restaurant, it is well worth getting there a bit early and having a drink in the bar... it offers stunning panoramic surround views of Amsterdam.

Mr Porter is Amsterdam's most famous steakhouse with a staggering choice of carefully selected meats and cuts, but it offers beautiful vegetarian dishes too.

If you are looking for alfresco dining, the Occa Brasserie in the Dylan's romantic courtyard setting could not be lovelier

Where to stay: The Dylan

STAY

The Dylan: Keizersgracht 384, 1016 GB Amsterdam. Tel: +31 (0)20 5302010
www.dylanamsterdam.com

EAT

Rijks,
www.rijksrestaurant.nl

Occa Brasserie (same address at the Dylan)
www.dylanamsterdam.com/brasserie-occo

The Duchess: Spuistraat 172, 1012 VT Amsterdam. Tel: +31 (0)20 811 3322
www.the-duchess.com

Mr Porter: Spuistraat 175, 1012 VN Amsterdam. Tel: +31 (0)20 811 3399

SHOP

The Nine Streets shopping area: http://www.theninestreets.com/

P.C. Hoofstraat: Amsterdam's high end shopping street, where you find Hermes and many other luxury brands. It is a lovely and relaxing street, making shopping extra pleasureable!
www.pchooftstraat.nl

Cornelis Schuytstraat: www.cornelisschuytstraat.com

Filippa K: www.filippa-k.com

Menno Kroon Concept Store: Cornelis Schuytstraat 11, 1071 JC Amsterdam.

Tel: +31 (0)20 679 1950

www.mennokroon.nl

X Bank concept store: Spuistraat 172, 1012 VT Amsterdam. Tel: +31 (0)20 811 3320
www.xbank.amsterdam

MISC

Amsterdam coffeeshop map: www.coffeeshopdirect.com

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I haven't been to Paris in a while, apart from a short day trip a couple of weeks ago. Luckily, I had a little bit of time to spare and headed straight to FSH. Whenever I approach the store my heart beats a little bit faster... will there be new window displays or are they the same as last time.. or even worse, are they closed off for re-decoration? I am often lucky, and this time was no different... I could see from a distance fresh and beautiful autumn windows, inviting the passers-by to feast their eyes.

It is always a special treat to see so many exceptional pieces in the windows showcasing Hermès' artisans' incredible skills, but it is equally wonderful to soak up the great combinations of textures and colors on display... they are such a fantastic source of outfit inspiration.

Back home, I very much looked forward to creating new autumn looks with the window details in mind. It is especially rewarding when well-loved wardrobe staples integrate seamlessly into new outifts, and it always amazes me how fresh and current they can look when combined in a new way. For fun I've included some thumbnails where some of the pieces have been shown previously... I was quite surprised by how far back some of them appeared!

Capsule pieces: purple sweater and mustard skirt.

Accessories: Hermes 'La Presentation de Cheveaux' 90 scarf, Chaniere bracelet in black lizard/rose gold and Picotin 22 in sanguine.

Scarf knot: Asymmetrical wrap, ends secured in a Criss-Cross Bow knot with a MaiTai Collection Grande Classique scarf ring in purple lacquer (available here)

La Presentation de Chevaux

same as above, only with the scarf tied into a cowboy knot. The ends are secured in a vertical basic slide with a MaiTai Collection Grande Classique scarf ring in purple lacquer (available here)

Below: the above capusule pieces, or similar color combinations, in earlier posts:
mustard coat in 04/2013, purple sweater (06/2010) , mustard skirt (09/2013)

Grey is such a beautiful and versatile neutral.. it can be teamed with almost any color and gives a calm, fresh and elegant touch to an outfit.

I bought this orange linen sweater a few years ago and love to find new ways to wear it every autumn. Inspired by the window above, I framed it with grey trousers and a MaiTai Collection waterfall necklace in gris/taupe/argile (available here)

The inverse of the above, this time framing grey with orange: Grey dress with a Picotin 22 in Sanguine and MaiTai Collection waterfall gemstone necklace in sienna/ecru/champagne (available here)

Below: orange and grey previously on the blog: left (02/2015) and centre 03/2015). right: grey dress with white (11/2009)

Photo Finish 90 carré tied in a Criss-Cross Bow Knot with a MaiTai Collection Grande Classique scarf ring in black horn (available here)

cardigan as above in 10/2012 (left), 02/2013 (centre) and 03/2012 (right)

Such beautiful soft autumn colors.. terracotta, sage, burnt orange and grey

No wonder that the Parures des Samourais in CW04 (ciel/vert/marron) from the spring/summer collection is a perfect scarf for autumn and winter too!

Capsule wardrobe : grey sweater and blue jeans

Accessories: Hermes Picotin 22 in sanguine, Clic-Clac bracelet in Bleu Indiens and Parures des Samourais 90 carré.

Scarf knot: The scarf is looped through a MaiTai Collection fox fur collar in Vert Paon (available here) with the ends tied in an Ascot knot

Below: previous posts including above accessories, left and centre: 06/2017, right: 07/2016

Part two coming soon!

I hope you enjoy the second part of Hermes' Paris autumn windows and that they provide you with fun and useful wardrobe inspiration!

I always liked to add a touch of rust to autumn neutrals, but wouldn't have thought to include a brighter blue if it wasn't for the picture above. Really love how it freshens up the entire look.

Capsule wardrobe: dark denims, grey sweater and rust cardigan

Accessories: Hermes Picotin 18 in sapphire, printed Chaine d'Ancre enamel bracelet and La Presentation de Cheveaux 90 carré.

Scarf knot: Cowboy knot (ends secured in a cross slidewith aMaiTai Collection Anneau Infinity in black horn)

La Presentation de Chevaux (click here to see the sunflower yellow version in the previous post)

The string of gold beads that frame the centre design of the La Presentation de Chevaux make it a perfect scarf to team with pearls or beads... below with pearls 07/2009

Blues and grey variation - Wearing La Femme aux Semelles de Vent in a rectangular pleated fold. MaiTai Collection shawl ring and waterfall necklace in black (Instagram 01/2016)

such a fabulous handle!

Capsule pieces: black trousers and black sweater with zig-zag border (Maje)

Carré en Carré 90 scarf in an Anneau Infinity necklace. (the Anneau Infinity scarf rings are available here)

Other accessories: Hermes Kelly 32 in ebene and large printed Grand Apparat enamel bracelet

Dark neutrals with orange, previously on the blog:
below left: 02/2015, right: 11/2013

A picture from the archives (04/2015): Orange sweater, ecru trousers and a Ex Libris CSGM in a basic bias fold looped once around the neck. Other accessories: MaiTai Collection in Tassel necklace in noir/argent and Hermes Clic H bracelet in marron glacé.

Similar looks from the past... left: 05/2014, centre: 10/2016 right: 07/2016

The color combination of the above leather jacket reminded me instantly of a tunic I found at Etro a few years back. It has become a much loved wardrobe staple for dressier looks, as it is easy to style in different ways for day and night.
Capsule wardrobe piece: printed silk tunic

Accessories: Hermes Picotin 22 in rubis and Kelly Dog bracelet in black croc. MaiTai Collection Gemstone waterfall necklace in sienna/ecru/champagne (available here)

Variation...with a Kachina Maxi Twilly instead of the necklace

how the tunic featured in past posts: Left and centre: 05/2016, right: 05/2015

http://www.maitaispicturebook.com/2016/05/cannes-part-two.html

http://www.maitaispicturebook.com/2015/05/postcard-from-barcelona-final-part_23.html

Fuchsia!

Capsule wardrobe : grey trousers and sweater

Accessories: Hermes Picotin 22 in rubis, Clic-Clac bracelet in Bourgogne and Coupons Indiens 90 carré.

Scarf knot: The scarf is looped through a MaiTai Collection fox fur collar in Midnight Blue (available here) with the ends tied in an Ascot knot

Coupons Indiens featured in previous posts: left and centre: 03/2013, right: drape knot tutorial

Variation: same wardrobe pieces with a change of accessories: waterfall gemstone necklace in sienna/ecru/champagne (available here) and Picotin 22 in sanguine

Coming next part 3 (of three)

With perfect timing, some new MaiTai Collection items arrived at the right moment to join in to the final part of the Hermes window autumn inspiration series. Hope you like the resulting looks and the mixes of new and existing pieces!

Black trousers and black sleeveless top (temperatures reached a summer 26 celsius last week!) framed by an Hermes Kachinas Maxi Twilly, Kelly Dog bracelet in black croc, a Picotin 22 in Sanguine and a MaiTai Collection new long gemstone necklace in Gris/Agate/Smokey Quartz (available here)

Similar color combinations previously on the blog (click on the images to see the full posts): left 10/2014, centre 11/2014, right 04/2014

An autumn classic.. mustard!

Photo Finish 90 carre in a cowboy knot (ends secured with a Petite Classique scarf ring in a criss-cross knot). Picotin 26/GM with new MaiTai Collection Double Mink Poms bag charms in Sauvage/Navy (available here)

Variation with a Brazil Maxi Twilly worn as belt (11/2013)

Parures des Samourias in CW5 (ebene/bleu/orange)

Parures des Samourais 90 scarf tied into a cowboy knot (instead of bringing the ends forward, they are tied with a Petite Classique scarf ring in the basic slide behind the neck (you can make a small double knot instead).

Accessoires: MaiTai Collection new long gemstone necklace in Bleu Jean/Labradorite/Garnet (available here), Hermes clic-clac H braclet in Bleu Indiens and Evelyne 29 in Bleu Agate.

Tigre Royal 140 silk scarf in the basic bias fold with a MaiTai Collection Gemstone Waterfall necklace in Aquamarine/Turquoise (available here), an Hermes Picotin 22 in Sanguine and a Clic-Clac H bracelet in Bleu Indiens

Tigre Royal variations: left and centre 02/2017 right:10/2016

RTW Silk blouse in Toutsy's Flamingo Party design

Accessorizing with pink and orange: Coupons Indiens 90 scarf in the basic bias fold and new MaiTai Collection long gemstone necklace in FramboisePlum/Labradorite/Garnet (available here)

Phoenix Mythiques (design also by Toutsy) with a MaiTai Collection 90 carré single pochette in Fuchsia (available here)

Mythiques Phoenix in the basic bias fold. Accessories: Hermes Kelly Dog bracelet in black croc, Picotin 22 in rubis and MaiTai Collection long gemstone necklace as above (available here)

Variation: Scarf worn as a belt with the ends secured behind the back in the basic slide (you can make a small double knot instead) Accessories: Hermes Clic H bracelet in black, studded Zara Clutch and new MaiTai Collection long gemstone necklace in Plum/Labradorite/Garnet (available here)

Also new: MaiTai Collection mink bag charms, available as single poms (here) and double poms (here) Made in France.

Have a wonderful week ahead everyone xx

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It always is with great joy that I post a new collage.. it is really a wonderful treat to see items of the collection styled with such aplomb and creativity by fabulous women from around the world, and the still-life pictures always provide fresh ideas for new color and texture combinations. Because of the many contributions received there is more to come; part two/collage #21 will be posted next Saturday (November 25).

And there is more reason to celebrate since this is the 20th edition of the collage! An enormous thank you to everyone who contributed over the years or purchased from the collection. Without your support the dream of the collection would never have come true.

To mark the occasion I've launched a special four-week pre-Christmas sale with items that are either perfect festive accessories, or make great gifts for the holiday season. The sale items change weekly and revert to their regular prices afterwards. To access the sale and find out more about the schedule and items in the sales coming up in the next three weeks, please click here

Now over to the swans and ladies... thank you so much for participating, dearest Barbara A, Cecilia, Desert Mermaid, Faux Fuchsia, Happyface313, Hrvoja, Jerrine, Joanie, Jonathan, La Contessa, Lauren, Macs, Manuela, Marla in the OC, Megan, Naomi, Random_Photo_Diary, Rumiko, Tanja and Trudye - you and your pictures are beautiful and inspirational!

Links in alphabetical order to everyone who has their own blog or IG site:

Ann-Charlotte: www.instagram.com/anncharlottefleurdelys
Barbara A: www.instagram.com/mademoiselle_orange
Cecilia: www.instagram.com/cecilialamb
La Contessa: www.thevintagecontessa.net
Faux Fuchsia: www.fauxfuchsiastyle.blogspot.com
happyface313:www.happyface313.com
Jonathan: https://www.instagram.com/the_beautiful_brain/
Katja: www.instagram.com/chinglish2015
Lauren: https://www.instagram.com/birdieone/
Macs Vie(nne): https://www.instagram.com/macs_vie/
Manuela: www.instagram.com/goldenbox29
Marla in the OC: www.instagram.com/marla_in_the_oc
Random_Photo_Diary: https://www.instagram.com/random_photo_diary/
Rumiko: https://www.instagram.com/rumi82/
Tanja: https://www.instagram.com/pearlsinblueboxes/

Todays contributions are from: Arizona, Australia, Austria, California, Colorado, Croatia, Denmark, DC, Finland, Georgia, Germany, Hong Kong, Maryland, Japan, Philadelphia, Singapore, Texas and United Kingdom.

Marla in the OC with a De La Mer Au Ciel 90 carré tied as a belt (basic bias fold + basic slide) with a Grande Classique scarf ring in dark Mother of Pearl(availablehere)

Still-life by happyface313 with a Picotin inVibrato and a Chasse en Inde 90 carré. Scarf rings: Lacquered Grande Classique and Shawl ring in purple and a Grande Classique in honey

Still-life by random_photo_diary - Scarf Collector's Book in gris (available here) and lacquered Classique scarf rings in Or (Grande and Moyenne, available here)

Hrvoja with a Double Anneau necklace in noir/argent (available here)

La Contessa with a Pearl statement necklace in bronze/copper (available here)

Happyface313 with a h.com 90 carré tied as a necklace with lacquered Grande Classique and Shawl ring in purple

Cecilia with a Crystal cluster necklace in cinnamon rose (available here)

Jonathan with a La Ronde des Heures 90 carre tied in a criss-cross knot with a lacquered Grande Classique scarf ring in ivoire (available here)

Still-life by Tanja with a Vintage 90 carré and a lacquered Anneau Infinity scarf ring in Vieux Rose (similar here)

Tanja with a Maître de la Forret 90 carré in a reverse basic bias fold, tied with a lacquered Anneau Infinity scarf ring in Vieux Rose (similar here)

Still-life by Rumiko with Classique scarf rings: Petite in Mother of Pearl and Moyenne in rosewood (available here)

https://maitaicollection.com/collections/test/Lacquer

Faux Fuchsia with a Parures Oceanes 90 scarf, tied with a lacquered Shawl ring in Vieux Rose (similar here) in the basic slide

Still-life by Cecilia - Kelly 28 in black box with MaiTai Collection Mink charms (Duos) in various colors (available here)

https://maitaicollection.com/collections/bag-charms

Manuela with a Waterfall necklace in black (available here)

https://maitaicollection.com/collections/waterfall-necklaces

Cecilia with a Crystal flower necklace (available here)

Joanie with a Parures des Samouraïs 90 carre in the basic bias fold and a MaiTai Collection long gemstone necklace in Gris/Prehnite/Garnet (available here)

Barbara with a Gavroche/Pocket Sqaure tied into the basic slide with a Moyenne Classique scarf ring in black horn (available here)

https://maitaicollection.com/collections/classique-horn-wood-mother-of-pearl

Still-life by Lauren - Panthera Pardus 90 carré, with a lacquered Anneau Infinity in Light Taupe(similar here), a Grande Classique scarf ring in Mother of Pearl (available here) and ribboned scarf ring boxes

Still-life by Jerrine - Bleu Nuit/Gris Muette SO Birkin with a Ludovicus Magnus 90 carré and MaiTai CollectionMink Poms Duo in sapphire/dark grey (available here)

Collage by Barbara - variations with a fox fur collar in midnight blue (available here)

Desert Mermaid with a Mini Caba bag in navy/stripes (similar here)

Naomi with a Ors Bleus d'Afrique 90 carré in a cowboy knot and a long gemstone necklace in Gris/Citrine (similar here)

Cecilia with a Crystal cluster necklace in charcoal blue (available here)

Still-life by Trudye - Parures des Samouraïs 90 carré with a Tassel necklace in Mocca/Or (available here) and horn bracelets

Megan with a Parures des Samouraïs 90 scarf tied into a Waterfall knot with a Grande Classique scarf ring in rosewood (available here)

Macs with a Poneys de Polo 90 scarf tied in a criss-cross slide with a lacquered Grande Classique scarf ring in orange(available here)

The tutorials for the featured scarf knots featured can be found here

Have a wonderful weekend and happy Thanksgiving Week ahead everyone.

xx

Coming next: part two

As promised, here's the second part of the MaiTai Collection autumn collage!

Thank you so very much for the beautiful and fabulous contributions, dearest Ann-Charlotte, Babsy, Cecilia, Desert Mermaid, Faux Fuchsia, Golden Isis, Hanton, Happyface313, Johanna, Katja, La Contessa, Macs, Manuela, Margit, Marla in the OC, Monika, Naomi, Sydney Shop Girl, Terese, Trudye, Veronika and Yuka. You and your pictures rock, and I am so proud and happy to share them. Mille merci and have a wonderful festive season ahead!

Also happy to anounce the second part of the pre-Christmas sale:

This week's pre-Christmas sale - up to 40% saving

Todays contributions are from: Arizona, Australia, Austria, California, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Nevada, New Jersey, Japan, Philadelphia, Philippines, Sweden and Texas.

La Contessa with a Crystal Flower necklace (available here)

Happyface with purple accessories. Lacquered Grande Classique and shawl ring (available here and here)

Veronika with a Mythes et Métamorphoses 90 scarf tied in a rectangular pleated fold, ends tied with a lacquered shawl ring in light taupe (availablehere)in a vertical basic slide.

Desert Mermaid with a 90 carré tied into a cross-slide with a lacquered Anneau Infinity scarf ring in ivoire (available here)

Still-life by Monika - Jardin à Sintra 90 carré with a Crystal waterfall necklace in Duck Blue(available here)

Ann-Charlotte with Sparkling Chandelier earrings in crystal/mocca (available here)

Still life by Cecilia - Kelly 28 in black box with Mink Poms Duo in Blush/Sakura (available here)

Still-life by Margit with a long gemstone necklace in burgundy/smokey quartz/prehnite (similar here)

Desert Mermaid with a pearl statment necklace in blanc/ivoire (available here)

Still-life by Terese with an Arbre de Vie CSGM and a Pebble necklace in argent (available here)

Still life by Yuka - Birkin 30 in gold with a B30 insert in Taupe and a Birkin 25 with a B25 insert in gris (available here)

Macs Vie with a 'Peuple du Vent' cashmere shawl, tied in a cowboy knot with ends secured in the basic slide with a shawl ring in dark sunshine honey horn.

Faux Fuchsia with a Les Tambours 90 carré tied in looped basic slide with a Moyenne Classique scarf ring in honey (available here)

Still-life by Cecilia - Shawl Travel Pochettes in peacock, fuchsia, Toile de Jouy and lilac (available here)

Katja with a Parures de Maharaja 90 scarf in the basic bias fold worn as a belt, ends secured with a Grande Classique scarf ring in the basic slide (available here)

Still-life by Golden Isis - Evelyne 29 with Evelyne29 insert in gris (available here)

Manuela with a Promenade de Longchamps Gavroche tied in a simple loop knot with a Petite Classique scarf ring (available here)

Still-life by Cecilia - Petit H cat bag charm playing withMaiTai Collection Mink Poms in Rose Pêche/Taupe (availablehere)

Naomi with a Colliers au Chien 90 carré in a cowboy knot with a MTC long gemstone necklace (similar here)

Still-life by Terese with an Echec au Roi 90 carré, 22 Picotin in Etain a lacquered Anneau Infinity scarf ring in bleu canard (similar here)

Cecilia with a La Danse du Cheval Marvari CSGM tied into a cowboy knot with a lacquered Anneau Infinity scarf ring in bronze/copper (available here)

Johanna with a pearl statement necklace in blanc/ivoire (available here)

Faux Fuchsia with a Circus 70 carré, tied with a lacquered shawl ring in Vieux Rose (availablehere) into a pleated rectangular fold

Sydney Shop Girl with a 90 carré tied int a slip knot with a black horn Anneau Infinity scarf ring (available here)

Hanton with a 70 carré tied into a looped basic slide with a lacquered Moyenne Classique scarf ring in light taupe (available here)

Babsy with a Les Clés Maxi Twilly and a lacquered Anneau Infinity scarf ring in Or (available here)

Naomi with an Appaloosa de Steppes 90 scarf in a cowboy knot and a Fer à Cheval necklace in argent (availablehere)

Marla in the OC with Lily and a Paridaiza 90 carré in a pleated vertical fold, secured with a shawl ring in horn (available here)

Still-life by Cecilia with Mink Duo bag charm in Rose Pêche/Taupe (available here)

Still-life by Trudye with a 29 Evelyne in Bleu Nuit, Mink Poms in Dark Brown/Sauvage (available here) and bag insert in gris (available here)

Hope everyone has had a fabulous start to the festive season!

I am very happy to announce this week's pre-Christmas sale - 40% saving on all stoles

To access the sale, please click here (until Dec 8)

In addition, there is an up to 40% discount on selected crystal necklaces, bracelets and earrings

Happy holidays and have a wonderful Sunday xx

During the holiday season there are always occasions when you want to be casually dressed during the day and sparkle up in the evening or for a lovely lunch. I thought it would be fun to take a few standard wardrobe staples such as a black suit, a LBD, jeans and a sweater etc, and explore how to dress them up or down simply with a change of accessories.

Transforming a wardrobe item from a casual daytime outfit into a 'ready to go out' look is also a perfect solution for busy days when a wardrobe change is out of the question. You can always go out with what you've been wearing and create a fabulous look by throwing on some different accessories.

For the capsule pieces I've chosen mainly dark neutrals, simply because these are the easiest to adapt from day to night. But if you prefer color, then rich jewel tones such as emerald, sapphire or ruby all work, as well as light neutrals such as silver, cream, champagne etc (except that my skin tone is too pale for these in the winter).

Black suit - day time

Capsule pieces: leopard print shirt and black suit

Accessories: Hermes Carré en Carré (tied in a reverse basic bias fold with an Anneau Infinity scarf ring in rouge noir), Grand Apparat printed enamel bracelet and an Evelyne 33 in Etoupe.

Black suit - for a night out

Wearing the scarf as a sash and replacing the Evelyne with a Kelly Pochette. Add a little bit of sparkle with a Crystal Waterfall necklace in Or (available here)

Jeans and blazer - daytime look

Capsule pieces: Jeans, cream shirt and navy blazer
Accessories: Hermes Evelyne 33 in Etoupe, Kelly Dog bracelet in black croc and belt (Muse buckle with gris-t strap). MaiTai Collection wool/silk stole in taupe and Double Anneau necklace in Noir/Argent

Jeans and blazer - for the evening

As above, but replacing the Evelyne with a studded clutch (Zara) and exchanging the Double Anneau necklace for a Crystal Waterfall necklace in gunmetal

Variation - with a Crystal Cluster necklace in lavender grey (available here)

Little Black Dress - daytime

To style a LBD from day to night is mainly a question of how to make it look casual for day time wear. Here it is teamed with a cropped cardigan, a Tigre Royal giant silk, Birkin 35 in Gris-T and Clic-Clac H bracelet in Bleu Indiens. MaiTai Collection accessories: Mink bag charms in sapphire/dark grey and a Double Anneau necklace in noir/argent

Little Black Dress - evening

You don't need much to style a LBD for the evening, a fabulous necklace and a clutch will give your dress an instant sparkling and festive touch (Hermes Kelly Pochette in black croc and MaiTai Collection Long Crystal Flower necklace)

I bought this long-sleeved black dress when in Amsterdam last summer and have worn it quite a lot in a casual tunic style and with long necklaces. Dressing it up for the festive season with cool and warm sparkling accents.

as worn in the summer

Cool accessories: Hermes Chaine d'Ancre enamel bracelet, MaiTai Collection Crystal waterfall necklace in gun metal and studded clutch by Zara
Warm accessories: Hermes Caleche enamel bracelet, a La Réale 90 carré and a Kelly Pochette in black croc. MaiTai Collection Crystal waterfall necklace in or

Jeans and sweater - casual

Parures des Samourais in a cowboy knot with a Clic-Clac H bracelet in Bleu Indiens and a Picotin 18 in Bleu Sapphire

Jeans and sweater - dressed up

As above, but with the scarf in the basic bias fold and with the additon of a Crystal Collar necklace in Azur

Variation with a La Reale 90 scarf and a Crystal waterfall necklace in Or

Variation of the above with a black sweater instead of the navy.

Left: Hermes Courbettes et Cabrioles 90 carré tied with a MTC Grande Classique MoP scarf ring in a cowboy knot. Clic H bracelet in black and Kelly 32 in Ebene. MaiTai Collection bag charms in Pastel/Sauvage.

Right: Hermes Collier de Chien bracelet in black croc and MaiTai Collection Crystal Flower necklace. Clutch by Zara.

Winter dress - daytime

I bought this dress a couple of weeks ago and I couldn't be happier. It is soft and cosy which makes it perfect for winter ('Loretta' by Max Mara, available here). Styled here it in a casual way with a Cavalleria d'Etriers CSGM in a looped basic bias fold, Hermes Picotin 22 in Etoupe and Chaine d'Ancre printed enamel bracelet. Other accents: MaiTai Collection mink bag charms in navy/sauvage and Double Anneau necklace in noir/argent

Winter dress - dressed up

With a MaiTai Collection Crystal Flower necklace in black (new) and an Hermes Kelly Dog bracelet in black croc. Clutch by Zara.

Variations - cool tones

Left: Mythiques Phoenix in an asymmetrical knot, Clic H bracelet in black and Kelly 32 in ebene. MaiTai Collecton mink pom bagcharm in pastel/sauvage (available here)

Right: Crystal flower necklace (available here), Clic H bracelet in black and Kelly Pochette in black croc.

Variations - warm tones

Left: MaiTai Collection cashmere silk stole in taupe and Double Anneau necklace in Or. Hermes Charniere bracelet in black lizard and Kelly 32 in Ebene.
Right: Crystal waterfall necklace in miel/champagne (available here), Hermes Charniere bracelet in black lizard. Studded clutch by Zara

Wishing everyone blissful and happy holidays, a merry Christmas, and a wonderful and fabulous New Year!

xxx

It’s been such a long time since the last post that I struggled to find the words to introduce this one. So let me just wish you all the best for 2018, hope it will be happy and healthy, and filled with joy, laughter and many beautiful moments!

January in the South of France came with overcast skies and finally (!) rain. Many of the smaller riverbeds that were completely dried out since the summer are carrying water again. It was so wonderful to hear the sound of moving water after the first rainfall.

A new dress, scarf, solar panels and car have arrived in my life in the meantime, more below

A Space Shopping au Faubourg 90 carré came as an unexpected and most wonderful pre-Christmas surprise gift.. Opening the parcel it came in made me feel like the little figure in the bottom left picture below, it blew my hat off! What an amazing coincidence that it happened to be my favourite scarf from the AW collection.. the design is whimsical, fresh and fun and has a lot of energy! CW03 (marine/orange/violet) goes perfectly with any shade of blue, it is a fabulous mélange of midnight blue, indigo, blue jean, ciel and turquoise.

Scarf reference : H003136S CW 03 (Dimitri Rybaltchenko)

Space Shopping au Faubourg in an Ascot knot (looped through a MaiTai Collection fox fur collar in midnight blue) Hermes Evelyne 29 in Bleu Agate and Chaîne d'Ancre printed enamel bracelet

If you follow me on Instagram, you'll have probably seen that I've switched my car to electric. I received quite a few emails since, asking me how I feel about the change and if it works well. The answer is that I could not be happier, or feel better about the decision! If anything, I wish I'd done it sooner, but I simply wasn’t aware of the huge strides in the development of electric cars that have been made in the last couple of years. All this changed when a friend showed me a video of Tesla’s Model 3 presentation from the year before. I found the presentation compelling and fascinating, and well before the 20 minute video ended, I knew that I'd be wanting to switch to electric (if you too find yourself ‘electrified’ by Elon Musk’s vision, you can find many interesting interviews and presentations on Tesla, Space X, Solar City, AI and the 'Boring Company' on YouTube. A few links at the bottom of this post).

My Model S arrived less than 3 months later (deliveries of the Model 3 were forecast for the end of this year, and I didn't want to wait that long) and I could not be more thrilled with it. Apart from the obvious benefits, I love the smooth silent ride and the amazing technology it is packed with.

For anyone thinking about purchasing a Model S or X, here's a referral code (valid until 31/01/2018) which gives you unlimited Supercharging : http://ts.la/referal

We've been meaning to install solar panels for the longest time, and now there was even more reason to do it.

To me, the window panes on my beautiful new scarf look like solar panels! Space Shopping au Faubourg in the basic bias fold with a Tassel necklace in Noir/Argent. Hermes Picotin 18 in Bleu Sapphire and Chaîne d'Ancre printed enamel bracelet.

This pretty floral pleated dress was a sales find at Hugo Boss (currently available on sale www.hugoboss.com/us/floral-crepe-pleated-dress) I was so happy to discover one of my other special friendship scarves works so perfectly with the dress that it looks as if it was made for it. Wearing the Rendez vous Rive Gauche 70 scarf looped through a MaiTai Collection fox fur collar in mocca with a Double Anneau necklace in Or. Hermes Picotin 18 in Bleu Sapphire and Clic-Clac H bracelet in Bleu Indiens.

Coming back to the Tesla after a walk with The Wiener Boys.. such beautiful reflections of light

Same as before, but with the scarf in a criss-cross knot (looped once around the neck beforehand) and ends secured with a Petite Classique scarf ring in Mother of Pearl. Picotin 22 in sanguine.

Capsule pieces: printed dress

Accessories:

Hermes Picotin 18 and 22 in Bleu Sapphire and Sanguine. Clic-Clac H bracelet in Bleu Indiens.

MaiTai Collection fox for collar in mocca, Crystal Waterfall necklace in charcoal blue and Double Anneau necklace in Noir/Or.

Shoes: Suede ankle boots and dark navy patent pumps (Roger Vivier)

Wearing the new dress with the new scarf. The basic bias fold brings out the horse in masquerade. A reverse basic bias fold turns it the right way round! Scarf ring: Anneau Infinity in black horn Also by MaiTai Collection: Crystal Waterfall necklace in charcoal blue

Bracelet, dress and scarf as before

Scarf: Space Shopping au Faubourg www.hermes.com/space-shopping-au-faubourg
Dress by Hugo Boss: www.hugoboss.com/us/floral-crepe-pleated-dress

On Tesla and Elon Musk:
Tesla Model S by www.tesla.com
Tesla model 3 presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q4VGQPk2Dl8&t=132s
Elon Musk Ted Talk (2013) :https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IgKWPdJWuBQ
Elon Musk Ted Talk (2017) : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q4VGQPk2Dl8&t=79s
Tesla solar roof (presentation): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4sfwDyiPTdU
Elon Musk biography by Ashlee Vince: www.amazon.com/Elon-Musk

MaiTai Collection featured accessoires:
Anneau Infinity scarf ring: here
Fox fur collar: here
Double Anneau necklace: here

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When I started this blog in 2009 I would not have imagined that I'd be carrying it on for nine years .. after all, in how many different ways can show how you wear your scarves? But things change as one goes along and the blog has evolved in so many different ways that I never get bored with it. If anything, I enjoy working on a new post now even more than I did at the beginning. Back then the posts were short and frequent, and consisted of two or three pictures showing the outfit and scarf of the day. Gradually they've become longer and more involved, allowing me to explore a topic in more depth, or to think of a theme or story. I hope you enjoy the monthly updates (I always aim for three weeks but seldom succeed) as much as I enjoy posting them.

It has been interesting to put this anniversary post together, as it made me reflect on the changes in my personal style over the past decade. I think most of the 2008 outfits have passed the test of time very well, proving how timeless the classic capsule wardrobe pieces are. I still own many of them and continue to wear them to this day. With age however, I find that I've moved away from the crisp white shirts and structured black tops that I loved to wear ten years ago; they just feel a little bit too formal and corporate these days. Instead, I prefer softer colors and silhouettes and wear much more grey and cream rather than black or white for example. With a few accessories however, the less preferred capsule pieces of the 2009 wardrobe can easily be worn in a way that reflects my lifestyle and preferences today. A scarf can soften a structured neckline or the harsh contrast of black or white, and casual drapes can replace more formal knots. Necklaces have become an important additional style element, and I feel so fortunate that the Collection allows me to make my necklace dreams come true... they compliment scarves beautifully and add a playful, modern and refined touch to a classic outfit.

For this post I picked six outfits from 2009 and re-arranged them into 2018 looks:

The most challenging part of this post was to re-unite with some of the old wardrobe staples that l don't wear much these days. To counter balance the crispness of the white shirt, I'm teaming it with a casually folded, vibrant Tigre Royal silk GM, a Picotin bag and Double Anneau necklace, all of which contribute to a more relaxed look.

back in 2008

Spring 2018 variation with a Fleurs Indiennes 90 carré in a reverse basic bias fold

Capsule wardrobe pieces: jeans and white shirt

2009: Les Clés Pointu in a double knot. Hermes Grand Apparat printed enamel bracelet and Muse belt with a black strap.

2018: Tigre Royal silk GM in a rectangular fold. Hermes Picotin 22 in Etoupe and clic H enamel bracelet in marron glacé. MaiTai Collection Double Anneau necklace in Noir/Argent (available here)

2018 Variation: Fleurs d'Indiennes 90 carre in a reverse basic bias fold (click here for a how-to). Hermes Clic Clac bracelet in bleu indiens and Picotin 18 in Bleu Sapphire.

almond tree blossoms - the promise of spring

This simple grey dress is a perfect example of a piece that never goes permanently out of style. I wore it quite a lot around 2009, but in recent years it has spent a rather quiet life in the back of my closet. Having re-discovered it a few months ago I very much enjoy wearing it again, particularly with La Femme aux Semelles de Vent, a favorite in my scarf collection.

Capsule piece: grey dress

2009: La Femme aux Semelles de Vent 90 carre looped through a MaiTai Collection fox fur collar in black (available here). Hermes Clic H enamel bracelet in black

2018: La Femme aux Semelles de Vent 90 carre in an Asymmetrical Wrap (click here for a how-to). Hermes Kelly Pochette in black croc and Chaine d'Ancre printed enamel bracelet. MaiTai Collection Crystal Waterfall necklace in gun metal (available here)

Shoes: black or grey patent pumps (Roger Vivier)

Like it's white cousins, the black shirt has not had many outings in the last few years, although it was a much loved staple in 2009, which made it a perfect candidate for this post of course! The black and grey graded background of the Les Folies du Ciel 90 carre and it's soft splashes of color tie the outfit perfectly together while adding freshness. I love how the gold Double Anneau necklace picks up on the swirling cords in the corner design.

Capsule wardrobe pieces: Grey trousers and black shirt

2009: Capitales Twilly in a Tie knot. Hermes Chaine d'Ancre printed enamel bracelet and a Birkin 35 in black Togo.

2018: Les Folies du Ciel 90 carre in the basic bias fold (click here for a how-to), Hermes Picotin 22 in Sanguine and La Marche de Savane printed enamel bracelet. MaiTai Collection Double Anneau necklace in Noir/Or (available here)

About the scarf: Ciel means sky and Folie expresses something that is extraordinary or extravagant in a slightly crazy way, like the fanciful and whimsical flying machines depicted in the scarf:

Les Folies du Ciel was of course the perfect scarf to wear while witnessing via webcast an amazing event that took place at Cape Canaveral earlier this month; the launch of the most powerful rocket ever made. The most extraordinary thing to see was the safe return of the rockets to Earth in perfect synch, after they had catapulted the dummy payload into deep space. This payload consisted of an astronaut mannequin driving a Tesla roadster (Elon Musk's own) in space, while David Bowie's Space Oddity played on the radio. Les Folies d' Espace! Of course this Folie was not the main part of the mission, but it certainly was an eye-catching way to simulate a rocket test flight pay-load. Incredible pictures of the car in space followed. The easiest way to appreciate this amazing and inspiring achievement is to watch the animation SpaceXposted a day before the successful Falcon Heavy launch (click here or on the image below):

Photo: spacex.com

(to watch the actual Falcon Heavy test launch click here and fast forward to 17min30sec).

The following day the navigation screen of my Tesla showed the surface of Mars. Folie en voiture!

Variation with a casual grey sweater instead of the black shirt. It never ceases to amaze me how different a look can become with just one accessory or wardrobe item change. Exploring these changes is probably what I love the most about fashion and blogging.

These checked trousers have been part of my wardrobe forever and I still love wearing them. Teaming them with the same scarf as in 2009, only with a camel sweater instead of the black.

Capsule pieces: checked wool trousers, black sweater (2009) and oatmeal sweater (2018).

2009: Monsieur et Madame 90 carre a cowboy knot (click here for a how-to). Hermes Grand Apparat extra large printed enamel bracelet.

2018: Monsieur et Madame90 carre in the basic bias fold (click here for a how-to). Hermes Charniere bracelet in or rose/black lizard. MaiTai Collection long gemstone necklace in Noir/Citrine/Smokey Quartz (available here)

Same dress as above, but with my latest scarf.. the fabulous Space Shopping au Faubourg

Capsule pieces: grey dress

Shoes: Grey (2008) and navy blue (2018) patent pumps (Roger Vivier)

2009: Carre Kantha 90 carre in a Slip Knot variation - tie your scarf in a simple knot around your neck first, then follow the Slip knot tutorial (click here). Vintage silver bracelet and Hermes Farandole necklace.

2018: Space Shopping au Faubourg 90 carre in the basic bias fold (click here for a how-to), Hermes Picotin 18 in Bleu Sapphire and Chaine d'Ancre printed enamel bracelet. MaiTai Collection Crystal Waterfall necklace in charcoal blue (available here)

Les Folies du Space!

Photo: spacex.com

These last two pictures probably mark most poignantly the passage of time for me.. the 2008 version was taken the day DS went back to school after the long summer holiday. He was seven years old and had only started school a couple of years before. By summer this year he will have finished school and then he'll be off to university in the autumn. I can't believe that I've had these clothes below for his entire school career. I'll be wearing them in an autumn version when he goes abroad for his studies later this year!

For the 2018 version above I'm giving the outfit a spring twist by replacing the darker, early autumn colors of the shirt and scarf below, with a cream tank top and a soft colored Parures des Samourais scarf.

Capsule pieces: khaki sleeveless cardigan and cotton trousers. Black jersey shirt (2009) and cream tank top (2018)

2009: Chaînes et Gourmettes 70 carre in a rectangular pleated knot (click here) with ends secured in a slip knot. Hermes Kelly 32 in ebene and Torana printed narrow enamel bracelet.

2018: Parures de Samourais 90 carre in a cowboy knot with ends secured behind the neck in the basic slide with a Petite Classique scarf ring (available here). Hermes Picotin 22 in Etoupe and Clic H bracelet in marron glacé. MaiTai Collection Double Anneau necklace in Noir/Or (available here)

A huge and heartfelt thank you to everyone who reads, shares or follows my posts and to those who leave comments, it means so much to me. Wihout your wonderful support there would be no anniversary to celebrate today!
Mille merci
xx

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This year we decided to do something different for our March holiday, so instead of our usual skiing trip to the Alps, we went to Thailand.

We've never been to Thailand before so I planned our trip in two sections, allowing us to explore the beautiful island of Koh Samui as well as Thailand's bustling capital, Bangkok. Today's travelogue is about our time in Bangkok, an incredible city where ultramodern urban life is intertwined with tradition, resulting in startling contrasts that take you by surprise at every turn. We are fortunate to have wonderful friends in Bangkok, and their advice on hotels, where to go and what to see permitted us to make the most of our time, and enjoy things we would otherwise not have found. Mille merci, again dearest R and T.

I took so many pictures and there was so much to see that this postcard will be followed by two more... the next one is about our time in Koh Samui and how to accessorize a summer travel wardrobe for a resort vacation, and the third post will be about how to style the same wardrobe pieces for our Bangkok city break.

Now for the first part, and what to do, what to see and where to stay in Bangkok!

Room with a view... the way the city's sky scrapers frame the vast Lumphini Park reminded me instantly of New York. The park is liveliest in the mornings and evenings when the air is cooler. Joggers criss-cross the paths while others practice Tai-Chi on the lawns or meditate. On the weekend, the lake is dotted with swan-shaped boats, rented by couples or families with children.

Bangkok never stands still and the roads are always busy, even outside the rush hour. If you want to get across town quickly, the subway system, or even better the above ground sky train (with air conditioned carriages) is a better option than to risk being stuck in traffic for hours in a cab.

Religion plays an important role in Thailand, and it is considered a major pillar of society. There is total religious freedom, but the country is essentially Buddhist. Temples, shrines and spirit houses are a lively part of Bangkok's busy streets, and chances are high that you'll come across saffron-robed monks at least once during your stay.

When I took the picture below I thought how poignently it illustrates the symbioses of old traditions and modern life: The shrine for the God of Love (Trimurti) is located right in front of one of the world's largest shopping malls (Central World), overlooked by huge billboards advertising the latest iPhone and surrounded by modern glass and concrete buildings. The shrine seemed like an oasis of peace and tranquility, shielding the people in prayer from their buzzing surroundings and letting time stand still for just a moment.

Temple offerings: fresh marigold and calotropis flowers strung into fragrant garlands (Phuang malais)

The Erawan Shrine is one of the most popular shrines. From early morning until late at night a steady stream of worshippers comes to pay respect to Than Tao Mahaprom (a Brahma god full of kindness, mercy, sympathy and impartiality) The picture below could have been taken before the age of mobile phones.. instead of living the moment through a lens, everyone's arms and hands are raised to pray, pay respect, or to hold offerings in the hope their wishes will be fulfilled.

Bangkok is a shopper's paradise and has immense, airconditioned shopping malls that carry every brand on Earth from Zara to Hermes. But I preferred to stroll through the markets, which seem endless! I walked through them for hours on end, and yet I barely scratched the surface... there is so much to see, and everything seems fascinating, enticing and tantalizing.

Street food is a wonderful way to get a sense of the Thai's culture and way of living. What struck me most was how beautifully everything is made and decorated. The deserts below resemble sumptous flowers and small fruit basket arrangements, making them a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Decoration plays a big role in Thailand. Even the smallest and simplest items are worked on, often elaborately, to make them look beautiful and special. I was touched to see how much care and patience is taken to arrange flower petals into stunning patterns on the surfaces of shallow bowls of water. Fruits are carved into exotic shapes, flowers strung into garlands, and napkins artfully folded... these are just a few examples of a way of life which has been part of Thailand's culture for hundreds of years. Maybe it is part of the reason that Thai people are so very friendly, warm, and helpful. How can making your world beautiful and special not make you happy.

One of the markets not to be missed is the food hall on the ground floor of the Old Siam Plaza, on the edge of Chinatown. The Old Siam Plaza is the oldest shopping mall in Bangkok and the food section is full of locals buying their lunch or dinner. It's the perfect place for something to eat after exploring Chinatown in the morning. We bought a variety of small packages from different stalls and settled down on one of the wooden benches dotted either end of the hall, eating our delicacies with no other tourist in sight.

It has been inspiring and fun to browse the aisles and watch the food being prepared. Everything is made fresh and from scratch. The stall in the picture below specialises in making egg yolk based delicacies, such as sweet golden threads and drops. The drops are poured into miniature ceramic dishes, and while the mix is setting, each little blob is transformed into an exotic flower by an expert hand using a small wooden stick.

A terracotta steam pot covered with mousseline serves as a hotplate to make transparent wraps which are then filled with spices and vegetable, and folded into delicate, bite-sized parcels.

and those who like to cook at home can pick up perfectly portioned parcels of fresh herbs and spices

Beat the traffic by taking a boat

Or take a Tuk-Tuk taxi as a fun alternative for short journeys, but make sure to negotiate the fee in advance (Tuk-tuks don't have a meter)

What appears to be a biker's reunion is in fact simply what happens when the traffic lights turn green.. bikes and scooters squeeze themselves between cars waiting at the lights, giving themselves a pole position. How cars ever manage to cross the road is a mystery!

I have no idea what the plants below might be, or even whether they're destined for kitchen or garden. In the Western globalized world it's so rare to see things one has never seen before, and it's been a wonderful part of our trip to take in so many new things, colors, shapes and scents.

The very best market is the famous Chatuchak market, also known as JJ Market. It is said to be the largest weekend market in the world, with more than 15 thousand stalls covering an area of 35 acres. It is best to arrive early, as it gets more and more crowded during the day and very hot in the afternoons.

Fresh coconut water is a quick and delicious way to replenish liquids and energy!

As you can imagine, this market has everything under the sun on offer. From antiques to mass produced plastic goods, artisanal jewelry and decorative wonders, plants, food, flowers, clothes and accessories of every kind, many cheap and cheerful, some pricey and exquisite. It takes time and patience to find the gems amidst the vast offerings and thousands of stalls... a small cosmetic business selling their organic range of coconut skin and haircare, skilled jewelry makers, the three sisters who make fabulous, hand-embellished tunics and kaftans during the week and sell them in their little booth on the weekends, or the creative whizz who combines imagination with expert craftsmanship, creating fabulous and extraordinary fantasies from materials most would overlook. I only wish I had more time to explore, hopefully there will be another time one day.

fresh mango ice cream, my favorite

Shopping makes hungry, and lunch is a welcome break after a lot of walking and browsing. Head for Section 1, by the Kamphaengpecth metro station entrance. Tucked into the far right corner you'll find a small, light and airy restaurant with ceiling fans, where traditional home-cooked dishes are served on banana leaves and simple terracotta plates. It provides a calm respite from the bustle of the market, and it is a perfect place to replenish your energy (it's slightly hidden, you can see the exact position in the map further down).

Chatuchak market map. Circled in blue: my favorite shopping areas. Circled in orange: the section of lunch place above, the exact position is indicated by the orange arrow. The colored sections help you find the areas you are interested in. You can see a bigger version here and find info on the sections here

Where to stay

Our friends recommended the SO Sofitel, and it could not have been a better choice. The hotel is fabulous and chic, the breakfast buffet amazing and the location fantastic. The infinity pool and roof top bar overlook the Lumphini park, the rooms are beautiful and stylish and the metro and skyline stations are easily accessible by foot.

Design is a key feature of the hotel. The opulent and imaginative staff uniforms, as well as the luxurious Signature Clublounge and bold lobby were designed by Christian Lacroix (more pictures in the next post). His creations are reminiscent of the old Siam and yet everything is fabulously modern. The room themes were created by five Thai designers, each one asked to tell their version of one of the five elements: fire, earth, wood, metal and water. We stayed in the Water Element, and I loved the calm and elegant muted colors.

Everyone in our family loves cooking, including DS, and for the last night in Bangkok we booked the Chef's table at the SO Sofitel's Park Society restaurant. Watching the kitchen in action made for a fun and memorable evening, and the food was, of course, wonderful too.

The Hi-SO roof top bar is located right next door. Perfect for a night cup while enjoying Bangkok's sparkling skyline for one last time

Coming next:

Postcard from Koh Samui and summer vacation travel wardrobe

Old Siam Plaza Food Hall: Wang Burapha Phirom, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200. Open from 10 am to 8 pm www.theoldsiam.co.th

Trimurti shrine: in front of the Central World shopping mall: 999/9 Rama I Rd, Khwaeng Pathum Wan (the neighboring Food in the Garden street food hall is also worth exploring)

Erawan shrine: in front of Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel, corner of Ploenchit and Ratchadamri Road

SO Sofitel Bangkok, 2 North Sathorn Road, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500. Tel +66 2624 0000
www.so-sofitel-bangkok.com

Park Society Restaurant and Hi-SO bar on the 29th floor of the SO Sofitel, 29th floor.
Tel: +66 2 624 0000

Chatuchak weekend market: for detailed infos and how to get there, please visit: www.chatuchakmarket.org

The biggest challenge when planning a travel wardrobe is usually the weather. If you expect mixed weather with temperatures varying from mild and sunny to rainy and cold, you wouldn't want to carry double wardrobe sets of everything and then only use half. Instead you'd be focusing on layering, and on how to make travelling less bulky and heavy.

Going to Thailand was one of the few occasions where the weather presented no challenge... we knew it was going to be very warm at all times, so no provisions for cooler temperatures were needed. The challenge lay elsewhere... since we'd booked an island vacation and a city break, the wardrobe pieces I would bring along would have to work in both environments. As this was our first trip to Thailand, I couldn't rely on previous experiences for what to wear. So it was even more important that all wardrobe pieces could be dressed up or down, and adapt to the atmosphere of the destination.

Some of my favorite sundresses that I'd had for many years were sure to come along, but I'd also taken advantage of the sales a couple of months before our trip and bought a couple of pretty dresses and tunics, all of which will be fabulous for the coming summer. Planning the accessories was great fun, and with wonderful timing the summer jewelry pieces I'd selected at a show in Paris the month before arrived just in time (now also available in the shop, click here)

I hope you enjoy the pictures of our island vacation on Koh Samui. Most were taken in the beautiful Belmond Napasai resort where we stayed.. it is a picture book paradise you never want to leave!

To get the maximum out of a travel wardrobe, the individual items should work together as much as possible. A skirt or pair of trousers for example should be compatible with many different tops. The same goes for accessories and shoes; there is not much point bringing a pair of shoes that would only go with one particular wardrobe item, or a necklace that goes with just one top. A mix of well-matched, simple and dressier clothes, shoes and accessories will be perfect ingredients to create numerous different looks which can be dressed up or down, and also go from day to night: A simple, bohemian style necklace, straw bag and flat thong sandals can turn a more elaborate robe into a sweet daytime sundress, whereas strappy sandals, sparkling earrings and a clutch transform it in a second into something more glamorous for the evening.

A beautifully presented, fragrant cup of ginger and honey tea at the Napasai's spa

This floral dress below is one of those I've had forever, and it was fun to style it with the pretty new items I found for the collection: The Duo necklace set and teardrop earrings (available here) make it look fresh and current again.

I took quite a few bags on this trip, but since they were light weight and stackable straw bags (George and the new Mini George) and small evening bags (a Kelly Pochette and a Zara clutch) the weight and bulk wasn't so different from taking a leather bag.

The Belmond Napasai's accommodation consists of individual villas dotted about in the lush tropical grounds, or on the ocean front, making your stay completely private and very relaxing.

The skirt below was a very lucky find, it was only 25 Euros! I spotted it at the weekend market next to the gym where DS goes on Saturdays. It was a perfect travel companion for Thailand. You could wear it strolling over to the pool or lounging on the terrace, or dress it up for the evenings. Here teaming it with a cream Zara tank top and the new multistrand necklace in silver (part of the silver necklace duo, available here). The pale mauve beach cover-up will be available in the shop soon too; I found it in Bangkok and it features a brightly colored, hand-embroidered dream catcher on the back. Bag: Mini Cabas in noir/natural

g

Lobby area

New life for a dress I've had for a decade... silver tear drop earrings (available here) and tassel necklace (here). Basket: George here)

room with a view

The dress below (by Peter Pilotto) was another sale find. It was love at first sight, and it seems that it was designed with the Gulf of Thailand's colors in mind

Accessories: George summer basket (available here) and the new ornament and single strand necklace set (available here)

tranquility

This silk chiffon kaftan is another wonderful item I found in Bangkok, and since I had an empty suitcase with me, I brought a few more back which will become available in the shop soon. Here accessorized with the new silver tassel and multistrand necklace set (available here), three strand earrings in silver (here) and a Quadriges Hermes printed enamel bracelet.

The peaceful pool setting of our villa

If you read my previous post on Bangkok you probably know how important decoration is in Thailand, and how skillfully even the humblest things are turned into something beautiful and extraordinary. It must have taken more than an hour to turn the shallow, water-filled bowl into this magnificent bougainvillia petal arrangement.

I was so happy to see how well the new teardrop earrings (available here) go with the Double Anneau necklace in noir/or (here) Also wearing: narrow Hermes Caleche enamel bracelet in black with GHW, kaftan by Roberto Cavalli and clutch by Zara.

The new Mini George bag (here) decorated with a Frangipani flower

The picture-perfect infinity pool of the Napasai, overlooking the Gulf of Thailand

The dress below is another favorite addition, also by Peter Pilotto. I love how easily you can accessorize it for a casual lunch on the beach, or a summer night in a city restaurant. Here wearing it with the teardrop earrings and necklace duo as before, and a Mini George summer bag

On our first night we strolled into the restaurant at around 8h30 pm, only to find it completely empty. We quickly learned that pre-dinner drinks were best taken at around 6h30, the most magical part of the day. From then on we had early dinners with everyone else, followed by a wonderful breakfast the next day and perhaps some fruit, if anything, for lunch.

Starry, starry night. Combining the new tassel necklace and teardrop earings from above with a chiffon tunic top (Cavallo) and white jeans

The resort was too relaxing to leave and the food wonderful, but if you want to venture out, head for the 'Relax @ Samui' beach club.. I spotted these colorful lanterns hanging above their outside dining tables when we were driving past, and it was definitely worthwhile coming back for a simple and lovely dinner in a romantic setting.

Here teaming my 25 Euro skirt with a black tank top and the new waterfall necklace and multistrand bracelet in gold (also available in silver, click here and here). Also wearing a narrow Hermes Caleche enamel bracelet in black and a Mini Caba bag (available here)

Variation - same accessories as above but in combination with a long floral dress (Lewie dress by Theory)

Dragon fruit

Dress as before, this time accessorized with an Hermes Lena horn necklace, Lift earrings and Clic H enamel bracelet in black for a dinner on the beach. Bag: Mini George (available here)

If only one could make time stand still.

Kaftan as before, accessorized for a beach dinner with a Double Anneau necklace in noir/argent (available here) Hermes Clic H bracelet in black and a Mini George bag. Earrings by Chanel.

Travel wardrobe for Koh Samui and Bangkok

Coming next: Adapting the travel wardrobe to a city break in Bangkok!

Belmond Napasai: 65/10 Baan Tai, Maenam, Koh Samui, Surat Thani, 84330 Phone: +66 77 429 200
www.belmond.com/belmond-napasai

Nearby 'Relax @ Samui' beachclub: 90/9 Moo 6 Bang Por, Mae Nam, Koh Samui. Phone:
+66 (0)81 893 0881

In the final instalment of the Thailand travelogue (which took so much longer to post than I thought/hoped) I've adapted the Koh Samui travel wardrobe for our stay in Bangkok. The city impressions are a mix of pictures from markets, restaurants and the beautiful interior decoration Christian Lacroix designed for the hotel we stayed in (SO Sofitel).

Combining the long skirt I wore in the evenings at Koh Samui with a sleeveless top for a daytime look. Accessories: Mini Caba summer bag (here), single strand necklace (part of necklace duo, available here) and teardrop earrings in gold (here). Hermes Clic H bracelet in black.

Street food at the Old Siam Plaza food market (click here to see more)

Long floral dress (Lewie by Theory) dressed casually with a Mini George summer bag (available here), Double Anneau necklace in noir/or (available here) and Hermes Marche de Savana printed enamel bracelet

A dachshund (!) sculpture in celebration of the Year of the Dog at the entrance to the glitzy Siam Paragon shopping mall. If you love Dachshunds, click here to see or follow my boys' adventures!

Same dress as above, accessorized for the evening with a crystal collar necklace in the new sea green (available here). Kelly Pochette in black croc and black lizard Charniere bracelet by Hermes.

Street vendor in Chinatown

The floor length dresses worked just as well in Bangkok as in the beach resort, only that in the city I wore them with strappy sandals instead of flats. For a mid-winter holiday long dresses have the added benefit of covering winter white legs. Accessories: Mini George summer bag (available here) and Hermes Lena horn necklace and Clic H enamel bracelet in black.

The roof top pool at our hotel was a lovely place to relax after spending the day walking the bustling streets of Bangkok

This fringed and hand-embroidered cotton poncho was a Bangkok find and works just as well at the hotel's poolside as it did on Koh Samui (A limited number is available here). Accessories: Ornament necklace, three-strand earrings and a multi-strand bracelet in gold (all available here). Summer bag: Mini Caba in black (here)

The modern and elegant Ma Maison restaurant (the menu is Thai, despite the French name) is set in the romantic gardens of the Nai Lert Park Heritage Home and surrounded by lush trees and manicured lawns. It was another great tip from our friends, with whom we enjoyed a wonderful dinner there.

Same dress as worn in Koh Samui, but with the smaller and dressier Mini George summer bag (available here) and sparkling Chandelier Crystal earrings in dove grey (here)

Room with a view

The beautiful silk chiffon kaftan dress is another Bangkok find. I brought a few back for the shop (available in black and blue, click here). Accessories: Ornament necklace (available here)

Dinner at the Chef's table at the Park Society restaurant made for a memorable last evening in Bangkok

Skirt as further above, this time dressed up with a gemstone waterfall necklace in sienna/ecru/champagne (available here) and an Hermes Grand Apparat printed enamel bracelet

Variation: as above, but with a gemstone waterfall necklace in gris/taupe/argile (available here)

The SO Sofitel's staff uniform, designed by Christian Lacroix

Lounge with a view

Top and jeans as worn in Koh Samui, but with a Waterfall necklace and multi strand bracelet in silver (available here)

Black and white printed kaftan with a necklace trio in gold (available here) and a Hermes Caleche narrow enamel bracelet

Travel wardrobe - clothes, shoes and bags:

Travel wardrobe - accessories:

8 bracelets

• Hermes: Clic H in black, Quadrige printed enamel, Charniere in black lizard, Caleche narrow, La Marche de Savana large and Grand Apparat extra large printed enamel

• MaiTai Collection: Multi strand bracelets in silver and gold (here)

12 necklaces:

MaiTai Collection: Double Anneau necklaces in noir/or and noir/argent (here). Waterfall necklace in gold and silver, Tassel and Multi-strand necklace duo in silver and necklace trio in gold (Multi-strand, Ornament and single strand). All available here

6 pairs of earrings:

Chanel: Gold and beige (Metal/Resin/Strass). Available here

MaiTai Collection: Tear drop and three-strand earrings in silver and gold (available here) and crystal chandelier earrings in dove grey (here)

Gold and silver accessories:

Gemstone and crystal necklaces:

Top row: Crystal collar necklace in the new sea green (available here) and gemstone waterfall necklace in sienna/ecru/champagne (left) and gris/taupe/argile (right). Available here

Getting organized:

The jewelry organizer (available here) holds the bracelets and two Double Anneau necklaces. Each bracelet has an individual pocket, so that they won't bang against each other during transport.

The earrings and remaining necklaces are stored in the velvet pouches they come with:

Voilà - ready to go!

Side by side pictures on outfits variations:

Ma Maison: 2 Wireless road, Swissotel Nai Lert Park Bangkok, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330.
Tel: +66 2 655 4773

SO Sofitel Bangkok, 2 North Sathorn Road, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500. Tel +66 2624 0000
www.so-sofitel-bangkok.com

Park Society Restaurant: on the 29th floor of the SO Sofitel.
Tel: +66 2 624 0000

Old Siam Plaza Food Hall: Wang Burapha Phirom, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200. Open from 10 am to 8 pm www.theoldsiam.co.th

The colors in the Hermes Paris spring windows immediately made me think of a holiday at a seaside resort, a place like Deauville perhaps: the different shades of blue mixed with white, black and silver provided a fresh and breezy atmosphere, and made the perfect backdrop for the occasional splash of burgundy, orange, cognac and gold.

The beautiful strong blues obviously had an effect on me... when browsing the scarf counter I was thrilled to find my favorite spring/summer design in a CW that seemed to have come straight out of the widow display.

I'm also very happy and excited to launch a new version of the long gemstone necklace and a new silver and gold version for the Classique scarf rings.

Hope you enjoy the window inspired spring looks and have a wonderful May everyone! xxx

Robe du Soir - design by Florence Manlik, Ref #H003174S, CW18 (marine/encre/blanc)

My new Hermes spring/summer scarf: Robe du Soir in a basic bias fold. Accessorized with a new MaiTai Collection softwater pearl brooch (coming at end of May), teardrop earrings and multistrand bracelet in silver (available here). Hermes Picotin 18 in Bleu Sapphire.

Black, orange and white
Accessoires: MaiTai Collection long gemstone necklace in noir/smokey quartz/labradorite (available here), Mini Caba summer bag (back in stock early next month) and multistrand bracelet in gold (available here)

corner window

Robe du Soir in a vertical basic slide with the new Grande Classique scarf ring in silver. Other Accessories: Hermes Birkin 35 in black and Chaine d'Ancre printed enamel bracelet. MaiTai Collection single mink pom bag charm (available here) and multistrand bracelet in silver (here) Sunglasses by Dior.

RdS as a halter top. Accessoires: MaiTai Collection tear drop earrings, waterfall necklace and multistrand bracelet in silver (all available here). Hermes Chaine d'ancre printed enamel bracelet.

Accssorising a printed shirt (Etro) and blue trousers with a MaiTai Collection long gemstone necklace in sauge/smokey quartz/agate (available here) and a multistrand bracelet in silver (here).
Hermes Picotin 18 in Bleu Sapphire and Chaine d'Ancre printed enamel bracelet.

Variation: white jeans instead of blue cotton trousers and an Hermes Evelyne in Bleu Agate instead of the Picotin.

Scarf ring news - the Classique rings are now also available in gold and silver (here)

Robe du Soir in a vertical basic slide (scarf wrapped once around the neck beforehand) with the new Classique scarf ring in gold. Other Accessories: Hermes Picotin 18 in Bleu Sapphire and Marche du Zambeze printed enamel bracelet. MaiTai Collection multistrand bracelet in gold (here)

As above, but with a Puzzle II 90 carré and darling Milo (you can follow his, and his brother Roley's adventures on Instagram: instagram.com/the.wiener.boys)

Hermes Robe du Soir 90 carré in vertical basic slide, secured with the new Grande Classique scarf ring in silver (available here). Other accessories: Hermès Bolide 31 and Chaine d'Ancre printed enamel bracelet and MaiTai Collection multistrand bracelet in silver (available here)

MaiTai Collection Multistrand bracelet and tear drop earrings in silver (available here), Hermes Clic H enamel bracelet in black and Kelly Pochette in black croc.

Hermes Aux Pays des Epices 90 carré in a basic bias fold, Clic Clac H bracelet in Bourgogne and Picotin 22 in Etoupe.
MaiTai Collection long gemstone necklace in sauge/smokey quartz/agate (available here)

MaiTai Collection Classique scarf ring in gold (here)

Variation: as above but with a gris/citrine/garnet long gemstone necklace (available here)

In a criss-cross bow knot, secured with a Grande Classique scarf ring in silver (here). Hermes Evelyne 33 in Etoupe and Chaine d'Ancre printed enamel bracelet.

Black and Blue. Accessorizing with an Hermes Kelly Dog bracelet in black croc and a MaiTai Collection long gemstone necklace in gris/citrine/garnet (available here)

The new MaiTai Collection Classique scarf ring in silver (available here)

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