STEVE & CHARLIE

RANDOM: Happy Valentine's Day everybody!

2012-02-13T13:45:00.000-08:00

DIARY: Last week in 5 pictures

2012-02-12T13:08:00.000-08:00

1. Started of my week in Amsterdam and spotted the frozen canals

2. Discovered the jewelry of Isabelle Vermeersch
3. Went to the Affordable Art Fair in Brussels

4. Lovely gift

5. Got some styling advice from Emma at A. City Life

Click here for more pictures

BLOGLOVE episode 8: Lulu Fashion Coach

2012-02-08T08:35:00.000-08:00

ID

Name: Lucie Van Damme
Blog: Lulu Fashion Coach www.lulufashioncoach.com
Blogging since: October 2010

Favourite designer: Filles à Papa, Proenza Schouler, Alexander Wang, Isabel Marant,…
Favourite place: Anywhere in the USA, especially the East Coast
Favourite food: Any kind of Asian: Chinese, Thai, Viet, Japanese,…
Likes / loves: Life – Fashion/Clothes – Friends – Cinema – Photography – Music

Q&A

Hi! Could you tell us about yourself and how you started blogging?
My name is Lucie, and I’m 23 years old. I started to love fashion so young I can’t really tell you when it actually started. By ten, I was drawing hundreds of outfits for the Spice Girls! Since blogs appeared on the internet, they have interested me. I created a first blog during 2008, but quickly stopped, because I didn’t have enough time for it, and also because I believe it takes some courage to put yourself out there on the internet, and I didn’t had it at the time. I finally decided to re-open a blog, over a year ago, to share advices and point of view about fashion. And also, to share my fashion universe with other fashion lovers, who would possibly understand me.

So what is lulufashioncoach about?
It was at first about my fashion advices, but clearly as become my universe. It’s mainly about fashion: from inspiration to outfit posts, wish lists and advices. I enjoy sharing what I love, either it’s fashion related, but it can also be places I love like a restaurant or a bar. I really love sharing places that I found amazing but that aren’t especially popular and bring people to discover them.

What do you hope to achieve with your blog?
HAVING FUN! Clearly the most important part, that, until now has been achieved. Meeting new people, discover new places, learn a thousand things. If it’s possible make people happy by reading my blog, make them laugh or give them ideas to dress up, and feel good. Spread the message that everyone is unique, and to dress like they want to, whatever people say. And I’m not going to lie, make it grow as much as it can, reach as many people as it can.

How would you describe your personal style?
Definitely eclectic! But also very changing. I can dress up with a lot of different styles: romantic, rock, classic, minimal, crazy,… I would be really bored if my style was the same everyday. I’m never afraid of any outfit, and if I want to wear something I like, I will. Even if it includes going out in my panties!

Where do you find your fashion inspiration?
Everywhere I guess, but usually I don’t realize it right away. Then one day, something pops into my mind, and I know I have to find that particular item/outfit I thought about. In most cases, it’s mission impossible. But here is a few tips about where I found my inspiration: magazines, internet, the streets, movies, my grandma, my friends and series.

What current fashion trends do you like and dislike the most at the moment?
Right now I’m really into buttoned up shirts, pointed pumps, playing with prints, skinny pants. Sadly I can’t figure out any BIG trend I don’t like for the moment (I think that it’s possible to make the magic happen with practically anything). I’m not a big fan of cropped tops though…

Can you tell us your favorite purchase to date?
I bought a lot of stuff I really love lately: pointed pumps from Zara, a silk top from Maje, a blouse with star print from Zara, Cheap Monday skinny jeans, fringed leggings, a clutch and a purse. And much more actually!

What are your wish lists for this year?
I really would love a good pair a shoes and a good/pretty and practical purse. Maybe some pieces from les Filles à Papa, and an open back dress from Delphine Manivet for La Redoute.

How would you advise people who love fashion to avoid bankruptcy?
It’s hard, because I think it depends on the people. I love fashion, but I’m usually careful. If I want something expensive, I think a lot about it, and if I need to I spare money for a while. I threw away way too many clothes already.
But I can still give you two good advices:
- You can put the price for basics, because you’ll keep them for a long time (shoes, purses, jeans, cashmeres,…)
- Don’t buy because it’s on sale, buy because you LOVE it. Just because they see a % on a tag, some people will go and buy tons of stuff they will never wear. (don’t forget that cheap + cheap + cheap = expensive!)

Is there something you would like to add to this interview?
I think I’ve said it all, but I can still share with you one of my big icon, inspiration, or however you want to call it. It’s Leandra Medine, from The Man Repeller. She represents a lot of things I love, and believe in. And also it was the first time I really related to another blogger, or person, at that point. People made fun of me, practically my all life because of how I dressed, I was kind of the Belgian Man Repeller (for lots of boys at least). And she puts it out there with so much fun, that I could not not love her.

FASHION: Spend St Valentine's Day in la fille d'O lingerie

2012-02-04T15:58:00.000-08:00

I admit: I'm not a big fan of sticky, artificial St Valentine's Day. Still, love is worth celebrating every day, so let's celebrate on February, 14 as well, no?
And, even better: celebrate in style! Favourite lingerie brand la fille d'O is now offering a 10% discount on their Valentine specials. Makes us happy!

Discover the Classic Keep and Blanc Skip combo. They fit perfectly together and make a gift for not only yourself but your loved one too. Think silk. Pure French silk. It will age like quality silk does. Softly like dust in sunlight.

Or try on the Long Nights and cover yourself up in stars and style; a bodysuit with attitude!

And to top things off: if you purchase something in our webstore during this week, you can choose between a free DVD or Iscream. Pick one and double your fun!

From 7 - 14th of February.

BLOGLOVE episode 7: So Simple Blog

2012-02-03T14:15:00.000-08:00

ID

Name: MarieBlog: http://so-simple-blog.blogspot.com
Blogging since: July 2010

Favourite designer: Dries Van Noten, Guillaume Henry
Favourite place: Oxford, England
Favourite food: Chinese
Likes / loves: like eating, reading books, watching series. Love my cat.

Q&A
How did SoSimpleBlog start?
If I could, I would have done a blog about my cat. He is my passion but I don’t think the people would be very interested in my cat’s life so I had to do it about my second passion: fashion.
Jokes aside, I first spent a lot of time on other blogs and then I decided to start my own blog to be part of the blogosphere. I needed a space to express myself and to meet people from all over the world with the same interests.

Tell us about your blog, do you have a niche of what your write and what set your blog apart from other fashion blog? Do you set a goal for your blog?
On my blog, I like showing that we don’t need to wear expensive clothes to be stylish. I usually wear very cheap clothes (from H&M, New Look or from vintage shops) and the people keep telling me I’m well-dressed. I’m still a student so I can’t afford Miu Miu shoes or a Chanel bag but I think it doesn’t mean I can’t be part of the world of fashion.
Except for sharing my cheap outfits, I sometimes post what’s inspire me: celebrities style, new collections and so on.
I often put a link to a good deed at the end of my posts. I really care about environmental issues or animal protection and I just hope that, thanks to my blog, I’ll make some readers aware of those problems.

What do you hope to achieve with SoSimpleBlog? I really like writing about fashion and I’m studying journalism so it may be a good experience for a future job.
Since I started blogging, I met incredible people and I went to amazing events I would never expected to be invited to! I really enjoy my blogger’s life and I just hope it’s only the beginning.
I also had the chance to start a very exciting project. I became close with three other fashion bloggers and we started our online fashion magazine together (Insignificant.be).

How would you describe your personal style?
It’s difficult to say… My wardrobe is full of vintage clothes. I also like the rock style and I often have a look at the men’s department.

Where do you find your fashion inspiration?
On blogs, in magazines, by looking at windows shops, in lookbooks, …

What current fashion trends do you like and dislike the most at the moment?
I’m really into midi and maxi skirts lately. What I see a lot and I absolutely hate is the tail handbag.

Can you tell us your favorite purchase to date?
That’s a difficult question because I’m the kind of girl that is in love with every clothes I own… But my answer would be the black ankle boots I bought last year on sale at Mango. I wear them all the time. They are comfortable, very wearable and perfect for my casual outfits.

Who or what has been your greatest fashion influence?
The British. I spent 4 months in Oxford after high school and I fell in love with their style. They dare to wear everything. Among the celebrities, I love the style of Alexa Chung, Agyness Deyn, Chloe Sevigny and Kirsten Dunst.
How would you advise people who love fashion to avoid bankruptcy?
Online shops often do reductions or promotion codes. I suggest to add the items you like in the basket and wait for a reduction to purchase them. The mid-season sales are often interesting (you can score pants for only € 7 at the Zara webshop). And buy second-hand clothes; they are cheap, unique and ecological.

Is there something you would like to add to this interview?
“Life is just a bowl of cherries“.
Thanks to Steve & Charlie ^-^.

BLOGLOVE episode 6: Brunette blogging

2012-02-01T12:54:00.000-08:00

Name: Kim Siroyt
Blog: brunetteblogging.com
Blogging since: August 8^th, 2010

Favourite designer: Phoebe Philo, Stella McCartney, Marc Jacobs
Favourite place: New York
Favourite food: French fries are my number one
Likes / loves: Travel, food, shopping, blogging, friends

Q&A
Hi! Could you tell us about yourself and how you started blogging? Hello! My name is Kim, I’m 25 and I’m a blogaholic. I started my blog because I saw how other international bloggers really benefited from it and how it made some of their dreams come true. Since I wanted to work in fashion as a journalist, I thought starting a blog was an excellent way to network in the business and just a great platform to show how driven I was. It has really helped me in so many ways, I’ve gotten most of my jobs because of my blog.

So tell us: do brunettes have more fun? ^-^

Haha! Sure ;)

What is brunetteblogging about?
Brunetteblogging.com is a collection of my outfits, mixed with articles and fashion or beauty related posts. I don’t take it all too serious; it’s good to make a little fun of yourself. I just want to create a space that people enjoy reading and makes them laugh every now and then.

What do you hope to achieve with your blog?
Fame & Fortune! I kid, I kid. The blog has already given me so many wonderful opportunities for which I’m very thankful but of course you can never stop dreaming! The best things it has given me so far: the fact that I’m writing for different magazines and online media, the people I’ve met because of it and the amazing press trips or events I got to attend. Of course, attending NY fashion week is still on the to do list ;)

How would you describe your personal style?

Girly with a twist. People call me adorable all the time on the blog, so I guess I am that as well ^-^.
I love to wear dresses and skirts and I have long, wavy hair, so I guess you can define that as girly.

Can you tell us your favorite purchase to date?
It’s not really a purchase, since it was a gift, but my favorite item so far is my watch from Michael Kors.

Where are you based? Could you give us some shopping tips in your city?
I’ve lived near Brussels all my life and I went to school there for a few years. My school was in the best neighbourhood ever – close to the Dansaertstraat and Nieuwstraat. Those are of course two great (and famous) shopping streets. You also have to check out the neighborhood around the Dansaert, such as the Kartuizerstraat. They have some really cool stores (vintage and trendy) and I always used to go to Foxhole to buy vintage boots.

Is there something you would like to add to this interview?
Thanks for reading! In case you don’t know me – go to my blog NOW ^-^ (www.brunetteblogging.com).

FASHION: LN│Andes launch - meet Ellen!

2012-02-01T08:33:00.000-08:00

My god what happened! All of a sudden, we are freezing our toes off! Time for hot coco and nights under piles of heavy blankets. And to beat the cold weather in style. Here to help is the brand new L N│Andes collection, which will be launched tomorrow. We had a small chat with Ellen, founder of the label LN │Beanies and passionate about her job.

Hi Ellen! So… tomorrow you are launching the new collection; what to expect?

Hello Marianne! Yes, the very first LN │Andes collection. I’m really excited about this one!

The collection exists of 100% baby Alpaca scarves, all hand knitted in Peru. There are 13 beautiful colours and 3 different sizes available, ranging from ‘Big Bertha’, the biggest one, to 'Long Lucy', the longest one, and 'Mini Maria', the smallest one.

Since I’m a huge fan of basics, I decided to create basic scarves in a modest knitting style that is very easy to combine with your everyday gear, as well your ‘night out’ outfit.

Besides their basic stitch and fit, the scarves are also extremely soft and very lightweight! The Mini Maria only weighs 180 grams, the big Bertha & Long Lucy only 280grams! They look and are large, but they weigh practically nothing. Well, every single LN │Andes scarf has its charm! Wish I could have one of each! But 36 scarves is maybe a bit much...

So how are things going for you? Are you a full time beanie knitter now?

Things are going absolutely fabulous! After 7 years of knitting for a hobby as a student and after having worked in advertising for over a year, I’ve been self-employed since October. It has been the best decision ever! It is such a pleasure waking up in the morning and being happy to be doing what you love. Namely, designing, knitting, communicating, brainstorming, meeting new people, and so on.

We read somewhere that you are looking for grannies who want to knit for you. How’s that working out?

That is correct! Besides my LN │Andes collection, which will be officially launched next Winter, in luxury shops & on my new webshop, I also run a very successful brand, called L N│Beanies, which is all about beautiful knits, hand

made in Belgium by myself and a network of grannies. On the LN │Beanies webshop you can design your own beanie, scarf or set. This makes it more unique than a basic LN │Andes scarf. Since I wanted to become self-employed, I had to take my little ‘knitting brand’ to the next level: have the grannies knitting and delegate myself. Perfect match! The grannies love knitting, and get to earn extra money with their favorite pass-time. A match made in heaven!

Knitting will be one of the trends for 2012. But what happens when the trend is over? Will you still be knitting 5 years from now?

Well, knitting and crocheting might be the trend of 2012, and might be completely out in 2013, but that doesn’t affect me as a brand. Winters will always be cold, and people will always be in need of a good basic knit, ranging from a decent fleeced LN│Beanie to go skiing to a fashionable, super soft LN│Andes to go working or to wear at home. There is no doubt about that!

What kind of reactions do you get from your customers? Are they becoming brand ambassadors or do you have a superficial relation with them, as they mostly buy online?

I absolutely adore every single one of my customers. They are all so grateful and nice, they really make my day! I must say the relationship I have with my customers is very intense. I, at least, mail 3-4 times with them, giving me the sense I get the know every single one of them a little bit. Besides that, I’ve made some really good friends along the way^-^! LN│Beanies as well as LN│Andes have enriched my life. I can’t be a happier person! Doing the things you love every single day for a living is great. I’m blessed!

Do you wear your own creations? Do you have a favourite item?

Of course I do! I’m addicted to my dark grey ‘Big Bertha’ LN│Andes scarf! I wear it almost every single day. I used to wear my LN│Beanies a lot. Winter, Summer; didn’t matter! But since I’ve lost quite a lot of hair due to stress and heartache, the beautiful LN baggy beanies don’t seem to fit me anymore. Since I wear my hair up most of the time I decided to create something new… namely, the LN│Headbands! Perfect for my nonchalant dot ;-)!
Besides that I’m also a very big fan of my LN│Bikini’s! Very cute to wear underneath a delicate see-through blouse or underneath a beach summer dress with crocheted details!
I could go on for hours!

LN│Andes collection launch
Holleweg 131, Kapellen (2050)Starts at 6pm

MUSIC: Tuesday Blues w/ Safi & Spreej

2012-01-31T01:27:00.000-08:00

Because we missed the album release last Saturday, we now have 'Ter Plaatse, Rust' (At Ease) by Safi & Spreej on repeat. You can get your own copy here.
The first single is called 'Herinner mij' (Remember me) and it got 15,000 views the first day. And we love it.

FASHION: Closet goes online

2012-01-30T14:11:00.000-08:00

Hip hip hooray for the Closet girls, who celebrate the 1 year anniversary of their shop in March. As we told you earlier, they will launch an exclusive collection with emerging Italian designer (called Flavia La Rocca, check it here). And, even more exciting: the online shop will be launched next month! So when it's getting cold and snowy, you can shop great Closet pieces at home with just a few clicks. Yay!

Available brands include Custommade (our favourite!), Wonhundred, jeans by THVM Atelier that fit just perfectly, Omsk Belgium, London based brand Pyrus, Forfex sneakers and Percy Stone handmade scarves. Also available online are selected designers for S/S 2012: Marion Cointot, Dido Yland, Monique Poolmans, Niyona and Flavia La Rocca.
To launch their online shop, there's an exclusive, limited edition Closet bag for every online purchase (until 5, March & while stocks last).

Launch 6th of February
www.closet.be/shop

FASHION: end of Sales...

2012-01-29T13:30:00.000-08:00

Hi, Charlie here.
So... Winter Sales are now officially coming to an end. I'm really happy with my sales purchases; I think I didn't let things get out of hand this time.
Here's a selection; let me know what you think!

Asos dresses

black & white; Asos dress and Zara blouse

Be Original petrol shoes

fox collar my aunt gave to me

another fur, given to me by my grandmother

silver & gold: H&M top and VILA dress

Be Original over the knee boots

reds; WE blazer and ZARA jacket

BLOGLOVE episode 5: Cupid has got a gun

2012-01-28T12:45:00.000-08:00

We know, we've been slacking a bit, but here's the next episode of our BLOGLOVE series, featuring Dana of www.cupidhasgotagun.com. Happy reading!

Name: Dana Steep
Blog: Cupid has got a gun
Blogging since: 2009, but ‘Cupid has got a gun’ only exists since 2011

Favourite designer: Isabel Marant
Favourite place: in summer: Greece, to shop: NY
Favourite food: Greek food
Likes / loves: quirky habits of people, dancing, the sun and of course shopping

Q&A
How did Cupid has got a gun start?
It started in 2009, when I had a blog with a friend of mine. When we went studying in different cities the posting stopped. But I wasn’t ready to stop blogging so I started a blog on my own. Actually last year, I took a year off from blogging because I went studying abroad (in Madrid) for half a year. But since this November I am online again, with a new layout and an own domain name.

How did you come up with the name for your blog?
A few years ago I went surfing and heard this song play on the beach. I asked the deejay which song it was but she didn’t know. So when I got home I googled the sentence that I knew by heart: “And if cupid has got a gun, then he is shooting”. The song is ‘Until we Bleed’ by Lykke Li and is still my all-time favorite song. I know it has nothing to do with fashion really, but I thought it would be an interesting name: an updated version of something new, a modern cupid.

You’ve been blogging for almost a year now; what things have changed since you started in February 2010?
There are a lot more Belgian bloggers active now. Since I got back after my year off I was really surprised to come across so many good written Belgian blogs. The blog scene in Belgium is certainly booming.

Which is your favorite fashion designer at the moment, and why?
Ever since her triangular looking heel, Isabel Marant has got me hooked. She designs clothes that always look comfortable to wear and I love the way she always finds new sources of inspiration without abandoning her signature style. Let’s put it this way: If someone would gift me a wardrobe filled with her clothes, I would be - jumping on the bed, screaming out loud, waking up the neighbors – happy.

What are your wardrobe essentials and why?
Blazers in every kind of color. They can dress up an outfit very easily. So when you don’t have a lot of time just put on a blazer in a fun color to update your look.

A black dress. Perfect for every occasion and easy to dress up or down with accessories (which are must as well).

Unique shoes. Again something that can change your whole outfit in a heartbeat. It can make an ordinary jeans look very cool or can add that je ne sais quoi to your favorite dress.

Where do you find your fashion inspiration?
On lookbook.nu and other blogs. Sometimes I get inspired by magazines as well but most of the time I wonder how I would style a shoot myself when seeing one in a magazine.

What current fashion trends do you like and dislike the most at the moment?
I like the look of pastels paired with one bright color. It looks very fresh and I can’t wait to try it out in spring because that’s the season most fit for it in my opinion. On the other side I am really done with the whole ‘animal print’-thing. I still like it in accessories, like a belt or even shoes. But please, don’t let me see another leopard print dress again.

What would be the one fashion tip you would give to a friend?
Try not to care about other people’s opinions. If someone else dislikes your outfit, so be it. As long as you like it, it’s ok. I myself am still working on practicing what I preach and am gradually learning (read: forcing myself, in a good way) to wear more unusual outfits.

How would you advise people who love fashion to avoid bankruptcy?
Try DYI’ing. You don’t really have to be a sewing queen to customize your clothes. A glue gun will do the trick just as easily. Try to update old clothes just by adding other buttons, or even by dyeing them. There are so much things you can do if you just use your imagination.

Is there something you would like to add to this interview?
I would like to add a question for blog interviewees still to come. I would like to know what there ‘style’ was when they were five. I know I was a big fan of shiny lacquer shoes.

FASHION: Eleven Paris S/S 12

2012-01-28T03:46:00.000-08:00

Famed fashion photographer Terry Richardson shot the S/S 2012 campaign of French brand ELEVENPARIS. The shoot features Tali Lennox (daughter of Annie Lennox) and Ash Stymest. Terry threw his signature black retro glasses and plaid shirt into a few shots of the 'Life is a Joke' campaign.

If you like Terry's pictures, be sure to follow him on Tumblr: www.terrysdiary.com.

Now let's talk about the clothes! The underground scene of Berlin served as a source of inspiration for the S/S 2012 collection: 'BERLIN CALLING'. The items are as multicultural as the city itself, with an edge to it.
We love the use of colour and the attention that was given to cuts and details. Can't see our boyfriends running around in an all-pink outfit, but still, we can appreciate men who do.
Favourite item: the Hume Grenadine jacket (first picture on the right).

www.elevenparis.com

BEAUTY: lips and nails

2012-01-27T14:07:00.000-08:00

Aside from the basic red nails & red lips, I like to experiment from time to time with my make up. Here are my favourites for the months to come.

Violent Lips
Not sure if I'm ever going to wear these outside of the comfort of my own home, because they are quite the eyecatcher. These lip tattoos are very easy to use; just cut along the lines to match your lip shape, then place it on your lip and wet it with a wet cotton ball. It stays on for up to 8 hours!
I'll post some pictures as soon as I tried it myself!

Check www.violentlips.com.

Dior nail polish

Dior offers THE nail polish of the season; this one is scented. For the time being the nail polish is only available in two colours (mint and lilac), with a rose fragrance. It's already for sale online and cost around € 18.

There are some other players on the market that offer scented nail polish; check Revlon or Forever 21 if you want to get budget friendly.

Les Nuits Fauves

If you're in for naughty nails, you should try the 'Les Nuits Fauves' manucure couture collection by YSL.

To create the "crackle" effect, a topcoat is put on the base coat (gold, silver or taupe). The topcoat will start to crack and this is how the leopard effect is created.

The release is scheduled for February 13th.

FASHION: Jill Sander Navy Summer 2012

2012-01-25T14:03:00.000-08:00

We only recently discovered Jil Sander's ready to wear (and affordable!) label, called Jil Sander Navy. The clothes are simple, comfortable, pure and feminine, just as we like our clothes to be.

For Summer 2012, Jil Sander Navy chose to create a playful and joyful collection. We love the pleated skirts (kind of school uniformesque) and the button-up shirts. Not sure about the plaform shoes though...

To create a unique visual experience for the website, Jil Sander Navy worked

together with digital artist Raphaël Rozendaal. Check www.jilsandernavy.com.

FASHION: Acne Men A/W 12

2012-01-25T13:11:00.000-08:00

A couple of days ago, Acne presented its Autumn/Winter collection of 2012 during Paris Fashion Week. Designer behind the label, Johansson, decided to do things a bit different, focusing on a mix of materials. Synthetic fabrics. Think fake fur, fake leather and vinyl. As you might know, we love items that combine different materials. So no wonder we absolutely love some of the jackets, pants and blazers.

Another thing we love is the fact that Acne mixed colours for this collection; some deep autumn colours were combined with bright reds and blues. But even when the label kept it simple with layered blacks and dark blues, the outfits looked sophisticated, subtle and minimalist.

Favourite item: the black coat with faux leather sleeves. A timeless classic with an edge.

MUSIC: Wednesday Blues? We got the cure!

2012-01-25T05:10:00.000-08:00

49:18 minutes of good music. Thanks to Brooklyn Radio. And guest star Jon Kennedy. You can download the mix here.
Bye bye Wednesday Blues!

MUSIC: Tuesday Blues w/ ASAP Rocky

2012-01-24T02:35:00.000-08:00

For his latest video for Wassup, A$AP Rocky teamed up with Vice and this is the result. This video follows Rocky through a dream filled with booze, Ferrari's and references to his five favourite movies: Scarface, Belly, Enter the Dragon, The Warriors and Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory. It is so over the top that you are going to love it!

MUSIC: Tuesday Blues w/ Little Dragon

2012-01-17T08:28:00.000-08:00

Just because I bought my tickets for the Amsterdam show today and I wanted to share my favourite track by Little Dragon with you guys. Press play!

<p>&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Tuesday&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;</p>

TRAVEL: La ville de Lille

2012-01-15T13:38:00.000-08:00

Hi! Charlie here. I went to Lille yesterday with the lovely Carole and discovered that until now, I only knew the 'ugly side' of the city. Vieux Lille and the streets around the market place are actually really lovely and offer some great shopping possibilities. Here's a small recap.

Rue de la ClefThis for me is the best shopping street in Lille, especially for vintage shopping. I went to Hippy Market (at number 19), where all clothes are organised by colour, and Tilt Vintage (at number 33). I scored 2 Levi's shorts for only € 20 and a cute little leather purse for only € 15 at Tilt. The store has a great selection of fur coats and shiny shimmery prom dresses. Speaking of shiny shimmery things; I found silver glittery Anniel shoes at Des Petits Hauts but I'm still in doubt. Maybe later...

Rue de la Grande Chaussée
A whole store full of Repetto goodness can be found at numbers 13 & 15. We loved the highly elegant leather ballerinas, the dreamy clothes and the warm atmosphere of the shop. Another winner, at number 52, was American Vintage, a brand that still hasn't opened a shop in Antwerp (but until that day, you can get your kicks at Blue Point in Brasschaat).

Rue de la Monnaie
All the Zadig & Voltaire shops just smell lovely and make you want to stay for hours... we spotted some great bags, purses and jeans. Unfortunately, the clothes were a bit pricy, even during the Winter sales (at number 17). At number 13, you can find the store of French brand Sandro. Lovely knits, great colour use and a very large choice are the main reasons to visit this shop.

We had lunch at Le Porthos, a cute bistrot in Vieux Lille (at number 53) with a nice atmosphere and great French classics on the menu.

Rue de Béthune
I scored a Bobbi Brown mascara (still no shop in Belgium...) and off white Princesse Tam Tam lingerie at our last stop of the day: Galeries Lafayette (at number 31).

For more pictures, click here.

DIARY: Last week in 5 pictures

2012-01-15T11:27:00.000-08:00

1. New stuff from Tilt vintage shop

2. Outfit with a neon jacket

3. Sales @Repetto

4. Carole @Lille

5. Roger van Damme dessert

For more pictures, click here.

BLOGLOVE episode 4: The Merrymakers

2012-01-15T03:01:00.000-08:00

« You can try to live by certain fashion rules, but I think you have to embrace the freedom you have to wear whatever you want. »

ID

Name: Nathalie De Schepper
Blog: The Merrymakers (on themerrymakers.be)
Blogging since: October 2010

Favourite designer: Miuccia Prada
Favourite place: the woods
Favourite food: Thai
Likes / loves: The art of fashion - my lover - marshmallows - velvet - Vanna (my border collie) - knits -animals in general - Ulyana Sergeenko - mint (as a color and for thee)

Name: Ruth Van Soom
Blog: The Merrymakers (on themerrymakers.be)
Blogging since: October 2011

Favourite designer: Haider Ackerman
Favourite place: Positano
Favourite food: All healthy stuff and an occasional pizza
Likes / loves: being a busy bee – online shopping without buying – Arne Jacobsen – Denim – Hugh Jackman – being creative – my FANTASTIC mom, dad and little sis.

Q&A
How did The Merrymakers start?
I, Nathalie, graduated from the Fashion Academy and while looking for a job, I needed a place to splurge my everyday fashion fix. Two months later, I had the job, was hooked on blogging and decided to keep the baby. Finding it difficult to combine a full time job and bringing substance to the blog on a regular basis, I invited Ruth (who was thinking of a blog of her own) to join me and put some solid ground under the S in Merrymakers. So now we’re bringing up this baby together in a loving, stylish environment!

So what is The Merrymakers about?
We’re starting to dislike the word ‘fashion’, it has become overused and understudied in its core context, but by lack of a better word to describe what we love, we’ll call it ‘fashion’. The subjective decoration of our bodies and its extensions to the mind ;) in addition to who we are, what we do and what makes us merry!

What led you to write about / be involved in the fashion industry?
We both have a past/present/future in fashion.

Ruth: Has been working in fashion for over 4 years now. She started working in clothing stores, moved on to the wholesale business and now she can call herself a genuine master of her domain: the showroom of oona! On the site she brightens up the Fresh stores in the weekend with her stylish advice and knowledge.

Nathalie: Has studied fashion design and is now investigating the backbones of the industry by working as a PR account executive. But designing has stolen her heart and will show its face again in the future, that’s for sure!

How do the two of you manage your blog? Do you take turns to post or does each of you have a different role?
We mostly take turns, but combined posts are also on the menu and a nice way to show our readers two different views on one topic!

How would you describe your personal style?
Nathalie: I have a feminine body type, no way around that, so I have to keep that in mind when shopping. But most of all I would love to try on every crazy item that catches my eye! My closet is very eclectic, a collection of my mood swings, a little bit of everything combined in my merry own way. I would call it feminine with an unexpected twist aka the Merry style!

Ruth: My style is a bit of a mix of Scandinavian and French influences. Quality and details are also really important to me. Every season I try to invest in some designers pieces because they definitely last longer. And I always keep things simple!

Where do you find your fashion inspiration?
Nathalie: When studying fashion, they thought me to look around and find inspiration in every little detail, so I try to keep my eyes open and mind clear. But for my daily fashion dose I roam magazines and the internet full of blogs, web shops and lifestyle sites. A few of my favorites: Honestly WTF, Absolutely Mrs. K., Le blog de Betty, 5 inch and up, Tattoologist, Acnestudios.com, Asos.com, Style.com…

Ruth: I get most of my inspiration by keeping my eyes open on the street, blogs (Jak&Jil, Stockholm streetsyle, Les petites pestes,…), online shops (Netaporter, Farfetch, Mytheresa,…) and magazines (Elle, WE Knack, Vogue,…).

What current fashion trends do you like and dislike the most at the moment?
Nath: I’m not really a ‘disliking’ girl, so I’ll stick to the positive part of this question ;) Working in PR, I’m already in a SS12 mood. So this summer for me, it’s all about knits, the 90’s and pastel colors (mint is my absolute favorite!), all of these have a great nostalgic feeling to them, and boy do I love nostalgia!

Ruth: Some trends may not fit me perfectly but they can be meaningful to someone else! So in that way I like them all! The only thing that bothers me sometimes are the hypes.

What would be the one fashion tip you would give to a friend?
Nath: Have some fun with it! Don’t think about what other people are going to say. If you feel like yourself in what you wear, that’s fine by me. Whatever makes you merry. You can try to live by certain fashion rules, but I think you have to embrace the freedom you have to wear whatever you want. The only thing I would like to warn you about is not to be blinded by the commercial site of fashion. Try to invest into some timeless pieces of great quality and brighten these up with some seasonal details found on the high street (or designer shops, it all depends on the size of your wallet).

Ruth: I think the most important thing is that you feel good in what you wear but always keep someone’s good advice in mind. Because you never know how inspiring that can be!

What’s on your wish list for this year?
Nath: All things mint, a jeans jacket, some jeans dungarees, a designer bag (the Chloé Marcie in green maybe?), pastel pants and matching shoes, a Burberry pompom hat, a peplum top, a Prada retro dress, baby blue Pistol boots from Acne and Chloé Claytone sunglasses.
Ruth: I haven’t really made a wish list yet! One of my all time favourites is the Hermès Cape Cod watch but that probably won’t be for this year!

Is there something you would like to add to this interview?
We would love to know what makes you merry! Feel free to tell us about yourself/your style in our comments or simply sends us an email at themerrymakers@hotmail.be

FASHION: Filippa K SS 2012

2012-01-12T13:27:00.000-08:00

Aaah... Filippa K! Talk about a lifelong love story. Well, not lifelong, since the brand was founded in 1993, but we've been fans for years. The S/S collection again looks beautiful in all its simplicity. Both the collection for women as the one for men have 2 main themes: sporty minimal, inspired by sailing and modern nomad, with influences of North Africa. Take a glimpse:

Floaty blouse in one of the trend colours of next season

Collarless parka

Desert hiking boots

FASHION: Summer Lenny

2012-01-11T13:05:00.000-08:00

Whoa! This is such an amazing picture. Well done Lenny Leleu!

For more info on the Ashes to Lashes SS 12 collection, check lennyleleu.com.

BLOGLOVE episode 3: dogsanddresses

2012-01-11T08:39:00.000-08:00

Here's another episode of BLOGLOVE for you guys. This one is all about the lovely Elien of fashion and style blog dogsanddresses.com.

« Seeing people actually liking and responding to the content on my blog is truly the most rewarding thing. »

Name: Elien Migalski
Blog: dogsanddresses.com
Blogging since: 2008 / dogsanddresses.com since 2010

Favourite designer: Marc Jacobs
Favourite place: Antwerp - London
Favourite food: I’m addicted to salmon and mozzarella.
Likes / loves: Family friends, animals, walk-in closets,... The usual.

Q&A

So what is dogsanddresses about?
dogsanddresses can best be described as my own online playground. I share my daily outfits, items on my wish list, trends I’ve come across and much more. Red line throughout is my love for fashion. I try to post as much as I can, so every few days there’s a new article online.

What do you hope to achieve with your blog?
For now, the only thing I expect from the blog is having a good time with it. By sharing my thoughts, musings, likes and loves I hope to inspire people, start discussions, discover new things, meet like-minded people. Maybe it develops into something more in the future, who knows. I wouldn’t mind blogging professionally and I definitely pursue a career in fashion/writing/branding, but as for now I’m happy with how things are going.

How would you describe your personal style?
It sounds cliche, but my style depends on my day-to-day mood. I do however tend to lean towards a more casual, kind of rough look. Jeans, a pair of ankle boots and a chunky sweater are my go-to items for every day, but I do try to step out of my comfort zone ever so often. I like to dress up as well, with dresses, frilly skirts, high heels and cute tops. That’s the thing I love most about fashion: there are no rules. I don’t want to be defined by a certain type of style. If I’m feeling like wearing a girly dress one day and a pair of leather pants the other, then I’ll do just that.

What are your wardrobe essentials and why?
A well-fitted pair of jeans is a must-have for both men and women in my opinion. Other wardrobe staples of mine are white t-shirts, chunky cardigans and a pair of vintage Levis shorts. Invest in some great bags and interesting shoes to take your outfit to the next level.

Where do you find your fashion inspiration?
Everywhere! I get inspired by the most random of things sometimes. I spend a fair amount of time on the internet, scrolling through streetstyle blogs and checking up on what celebrities are wearing on the ‘The Fashion Spot’ forums.

What current fashion trends do you like and dislike the most at the moment?
I’m all about pastels at the moment. They are going to be big this spring, as well as crazy ethnic prints. The Isabel Marant Beckett sneakers are quite the trend at the moment. I wouldn’t say I dislike them, but I’m not crazy about them either. I would much rather want to have the wedge sneakers Marc Jacobs did for his MBMJ s/s12 collection – not only because everything the man does is magic, but these are just a bit more original than the 10.000-people-on-1-waiting-list Isabel Marant sneakers.

What would be the one fashion tip you would give to a friend?
Fashion is all about expressing yourself, so just have fun with it!

If tomorrow somebody gave you a € 5.000 shopping budget, what would you spend it on?
Oh my! I would buy a first-class ticket to New York City and treat myself to a designer bag – a Proenza Schouler of Balenciaga for example. And who cares if there won’t be any money left to fly back to Belgium, I’ll just stay in NYC ;)

Do you have other passions besides fashion?
I love art and film. I’m currently studying Film Studies after graduating as an arts and cultural mediator in 2011, so it’s only natural that I’m interested in these things. Besides that I’m interested in the effects of (social) media. So if anyone knows a job that combines fashion/art/film/social media, please let me know ;)

Is there something you would like to add to this interview?
Maybe this is a good opportunity to thank each and every one who drops by and reads the blog. It truly is the most rewarding thing, seeing people actually liking and responding to the content. Oh and I love fellow bloggers that share the national blog love, Steve & Charlie!

Liked this interview? Click here to read episode 1 & episode 2!

MUSIC: Tuesday Blues w/ Le Le

2012-01-10T06:31:00.000-08:00

We already knew 2012 would bring a new Le Le album, we just didn't expect for the first track to drop so soon. Press play & enjoy 'Neen', shot by the one and only Sandder.

Le Le - Neen from magnetron music on Vimeo.

BLOGLOVE episode 2: Style for Guys

2012-01-08T13:53:00.000-08:00

« I admit: I’m that guy at the Bon Iver concert in a denim shirt, skinny jeans, ironic moustache necklace and big horn-rimmed glasses. »

We believe there is a need for Belgian fashion bloggers to network, socialize and get to know one another. So here's episode 2 of BLOGLOVE, a series of interviews with inspiring people behind inspiring fashion blogs. Meet Immi, the driving force behind Style For Guys. Oh and read the interview with Afrodite, in case you missed it.

Name: Immi
Blog: Style For Guys
Blogging since: April 1^st, 2009

Favourite designer: Christopher Bailey (Burberry) and so many more!
Favourite place: New York
Favourite food: Roti (a Carribean kind of savoury pancake my dad makes)
Likes / loves: I like warm summer wind / I love love love music!

Q&A
How did Style For Guys start?
I started SFG because I was bored and really wanted to pick up writing again. But since my life was really uninteresting, I figured fashion was the only thing I knew enough of to write about.

Tell us about your blog, do you have a niche of what your write and what set your blog apart from other fashion blog? Do you set a goal for your blog?
My blog focuses solely on male readers, so I guess in the current blogosphere that is a niche. My blog isn’t just personal style (only once in a while), but more of a collection of short articles on things I love. I always try to keep it humorous and light, but not too crass.

What do you hope to achieve with Style For Guys?
I don’t have any set goals; I like being surprised with nice e-mails and offers. But in the long run, I want to work for a (men’s) fashion magazine. So if my blog could help to make this happen, that’d be awesome. But I’m not counting on it ^-^.

How would you describe your personal style?
It sort of depends on how confident I’m feeling that day. But I’d describe it as modern prep with a serious hipster infusion. I admit: I’m that guy at the Bon Iver concert in a denim shirt, skinny jeans, ironic moustache necklace and big horn-rimmed glasses. I embrace it; I don’t take myself too seriously.

Where do you find your fashion inspiration?
The internet! Fashion blogs, online stores, Tumblr, Twitter, Facebook… You name it, I’ve got an account on it. But what I enjoy most is splurging on a beautiful magazine every now and then. My favourites are Fantastic Man, Another Man, Vogue Hommes and GQ.

What current fashion trends do you like and dislike the most at the moment?
I will always dislike Uggs, especially now more men are wearing them. But that’s not really a trend, is it? More like a fashion STD. Uhm, I know I’m committing blogger sacrilege here, but I don’t really see what the big deal is about the Isabel Marant sneaker wedge shoes. I guess it’s because I’m not a girl? I am very glad to see more and more guys in brightly coloured chinos. Especially those in rich jewel tones for winter, like burgundy and petrol green. Love it!

Can you tell us your favorite purchase to date?
I have this royal blue alpaca Marc by Marc Jacobs cable knit oversize sweater (“stupid bloggers and their stupid long descriptions of clothes”) that I just cherish like a little baby. Like, I won’t wear it if I know there will be smoke around me, or fried food. Probably also because it’s dry clean only.

Who or what has been your greatest fashion influence?
Other bloggers, the late Francesco Cominelli, my boyfriend, my friends and Chuck Bass for showing me I can be as debonair as I damn well please.

How would you advise people who love fashion to avoid bankruptcy?
Buy a lot of layering pieces in big stores like H&M, River Island or Zara so you feel like you have a lot in your closet and you can vary a lot. Save up for designer pieces, or beg you parents to get them for your birthday ;-).

Is there something you would like to add to this interview?
I would like to thank you guys for wanting to hear my ramblings, and to anyone who reads this: every day could be your last; you don’t want to get run over in trackie bottoms!

FASHION: Flavia La Rocca x Closet

2012-01-08T12:41:00.000-08:00

Sometimes a collaboration seems like the obvious thing to do... when the girls behind Closet met young Italian designer Flavia La Rocca in Paris, they decided to work together. This collaboration resulted in a unique capsule collection for Closet: 6 unique pieces, each branded with one letter of Closet. Well, actually, more like 18 unique pieces, because each garment is designed to be worn in different ways: a top becomes a dress, a tunic or even a jumpsuit. La Rocca's clothes are designed to make you save time and they occupy less room inside your suitcase. The clothes are perfect to play around with and feel wonderful in. Yay!

The collection will be in store from February.

Closet
Volkstraat 9
Antwerp (2000)

www.closet.be
www.flavialarocca.com

DIARY: Last week in 5 pictures

2012-01-08T12:05:00.000-08:00

1. Start of Winter sales

2. A well-deserved cappuccino

3. Ice bar
4. Ice rabbit

5. Planning our trip to Florida & NY

BEAUTY: First pictures of Les Merveilles de Ladurée

2012-01-07T12:18:00.000-08:00

A while ago, we wrote about Maison Ladurée's collection of make up inspired by the colours of their macaroons. This week, the first pictures of the make up line were released. We especially like the blush in the form of a cameo. By fall, the collection will be available in Europe and America. Start the countdown!

BLOGLOVE episode 1: The Fashion Folio

2012-01-04T13:42:00.000-08:00

« I want to turn my blog into an online magazine and even make a real magazine out of it. »

When we attended The Blog Works in December of last year, we were pleasantly surprised by the quality (and quantity!) of Belgian fashion blogs that are around. Too bad we didn't know the people behind all those amazing blogs. Well that's going to change! For the next couple of weeks, we will post an interview with a Belgian blogger in our BLOGLOVE episodes. Let's kick off with The Fashion Folio, a blog run by the lovely Greek fashionista and journalism student Afrodite.

Name: Afrodite Trevlopoulos
Blog: www.thefashionfolio.com
Blogging since: August 2009

Favourite designer: Alexander Wang & Isabel Marant (don’t make me choose)
Favourite place: London (haven’t been to NYC yet)
Favourite food: Difficult. I’d go for my roots: Greek!
Likes / loves: I love my iPhone 4s and can’t live without it!

Q&A
How did The Fashion Folio start?
I was bored and looking for things on the internet. All of a sudden I came across a blog and I thought the concept was cool. I clicked and clicked and clicked until I found dozens of other blogs and that’s when the idea came to mind. I started a blog to share pictures and other things I liked.

So what is the blog about?
I always describe it as a ‘fashion and personal lifestyle’ blog. I rarely post outfit posts, even though I should! I do share some other personal pictures such as snapshots of my daily life or when I travel. You can also find my everyday fashion hauls or blogging events/parties.

What do you hope to achieve with your blog?
I study journalism and so my ‘dream’ is to become a fashion journalist. The more I spent time blogging and seeing other big bloggers evolve, the more I wish I could make a living out of my blog. I want to make it into an online magazine and even make a real magazine out of it. I want to do something with print and online and it has to be about fashion. Let’s hope this will come true.

How would you describe your personal style?
Different than other girls at school for example, but still not too much. Everybody says I have the London look and I like that a lot! So I guess I’m dressed like that? Knitted sweaters, skirts, knee high socks and a hat!

What are your wardrobe essentials and why?
1. A pair of simple black ankle boots
because they’re so comfortable, you can wear them everyday and with everything!

2. Blazers in every color
you can wear them on top of almost everything and due to the overload of colors, you can switch everyday!

3. (high-waist) Skirts
I’ve become a skirt addict. They’re just so fun, because you can put your top in it or let it hang loose and you have two different looks with the same garments.

4. Tights in every possible colour
This is an essential for when it’s cold, but since we live in Belgium: that’s like every day! You can add that little extra touch to an all black outfit with some nice colourful tights. Mustard and burgundy are my favorites!

Where do you find your fashion inspiration?
On blogs. I used to look for it in the street. I’d see some people of which I thought they looked so cool. Those people that look as if they didn’t make an effort to look good, but definitely do. Some bloggers have thing. I secretly go on blogs to see how they wear their skirts of knitwear.
What current fashion trends do you like and dislike the most at the moment?

What would be the one fashion tip you would give to a friend?
To dare more! Even though I should do that also. I may be dressed differently but I have these crazy outfit ideas of which I’m afraid to wear at school.

What are your wish lists for this year?
Oh my, I have a lot of things! First of all I’d like the Isabel Marant Willow sneakers. I’ve just decided I’m going to put myself on a waiting list and just go for it. Second of all I’d like a pair of blue and black jeans. I’m not a jeans kind of girl, because I never find the right fit but I’m starting to feel like those things are really missing in my closet. Third, I’d like to make an awesome magazine at school. It’s going to be a very busy time but I hope my partner and I manage to finish it in style!

Is there something you would like to add to this interview?
I’d like to say that I really love this blogging life and that it has given me a lot of great opportunities. It’s a whole new world and some people still don’t understand what a blog is exactly. I just hope Belgium will be more open to it soon and who know, maybe I’ll be a full time blogger in the future!

FASHION: great webshops for menswear

2012-01-03T15:26:00.000-08:00

Although we mainly blog for girls & women, we couldn't forget about the men and write a little post about great webshops for them. Here are our personal favourites, but let us know which ones are on your short list!

Drugs sweat @Sixpack

80s Purple
www.80spurple.com
This U.S.-based webshop was established in 2005 and quickly gained recognition as a premier online fashion boutique. The shop is known for its large spectrum of clothing, accessories and sunglasses for men (and women). They sell streetwear brands such as HUF, Penfield and Supra and they've got a great fashion photography section incorporated in the website - which is great to get some inspiration for your outfit.

Sixpack France

www.sixpack.fr
Sixpack had to shake off the image of a youth-oriented, teenage brand and grow up to be a post-youth brand. But the brand still has a playful aspect to it, luckily. Sixpack believes in the dream of never-ending youth and so do we! Their clothing is simple, very nicely cut and full of vague recollections. The webshop is a combination of both a shop, a look book, a blog and an overview of the artists they work with.

Military blazer @Sixpack

Freshcotton

www.freshcotton.com
FreshCotton is separated in two departments, The Selected Shop and the online Streetwear Store. The Selected Shop offers you a fine selection of designer brands from all over the world. While the Street Store is packed with the best Streetwear Brands. Shop online at FreshCotton, it's easy and secure. FreshCotton presents a wide variety of exclusive designer clothing. The store is the No. 1 online fashion store in Europe. FreshCotton is located in Amsterdam and is bringing you Amsterdam Lifestyle since 2001.
Ssense
www.ssence.com
Ssense offers more than 80 great brands to choose from: Marc by Marc Jacobs, Balmain, Alexander McQueen,A.P.C., Acne,...
Go score yourself some luxury items!

Mr Porter
www.mrporter.com
Mr Porter is the male equivalent of Net-a-Porter.com and was launched in February of last year. Mens designer clothes, designer shoes and designer accessories from top designer brands. Mr Porter features profiles of men from real life, including a motorbike designer, a banker and a painter. All in stylish clothes, of course.

Shorts @Sixpack

Gilt Man
www.giltman.com
Gilt Man is a site that sells designer goods at a discount for limited-time periods known as "flash" sales. You need to sign up in order to benefit from the great discounts they offer.

Snapstore
www.snapstore.be
Another website that specialises in flash sales, is the Belgian company called Snapstore, which organises private sales events that last between 2 and 5 days. Thanks to its close cooperation with top labels, Snapstore can offer its memebers prices at discounts between 40 to 70% from high street prices.

My Wardrobe
www.my-wardrobe.com
Another stylish online boutique, founded in 2006 and always channeling the hottest trends of the season. You can shop ready-to-wear, bags, shoes and accessoires and get style advice (click on the 'Stylefeed' or 'Daily Buzz' buttons for this). You can even watch master-classes and fashion films at MY-TV.

ART: Fiend Projects Art Festival

2012-01-03T12:57:00.000-08:00

In January 2012, Fiend Projects will take over the Designcenter de Winkelhaak exhibition space with an exciting art festival. Throughout the 3 weeks that the event is on there will be exhibitions, demonstrations, workshops, film showings, artist talks, an indoor street market and more. In a city like Antwerp with such artistic heritage and a great number of young and talented artists, it seems the perfect place to hold such an event. The kick off will take place on January,7. Come & support your local (and international) wizards!

Check the website for the full schedule.

Fiend Projects Art Festival
Designcenter de Winkelhaak
Lange Winkelhaakstraat 26

Antwerp (2060)

7 - 28 January 2012

FASHION: Girls from Omsk on sale!

2012-01-03T11:32:00.000-08:00

This made us smile:

This made us smile even more:

Happy sales everybody!

MUSIC: Tuesday Blues w/ 2011's top 3

2012-01-02T15:24:00.000-08:00

No ordinary Tuesday Blues today, but a top 3 of 2011. Press play!

frank ocean [novacane] from christopher francis ocean on Vimeo.

Future "Tony Montana" from New Hat on Vimeo.

Pesos from ILLICIT EDDY on Vimeo.

FASHION: great webshops for womenswear

2012-01-01T15:01:00.000-08:00

We loooove shopping online! In fact, we spend so much time browsing our favourite online shops that you can call us webshop pros. As you know, sharing is caring, so we put together our top ten favourites (in no particular order).


Leopard swing coat @Storets

Storets
www.storets.com
Storets is a collective boutique that offers the latest fashion items made or designed by Korean independent designers. The clothes are a bit edgy and the use of materials always interesting.

Topshop
www.topshop.com
Since the beginnings in the '60s, Topshop has grown up and now has over 300 stores in the UK alone. The retailer still hasn't opened a shop in Belgium, but you can score some Topshop items at Hunting & Collecting in Brussels or Ra in Antwerp. And online of course! If you are looking for an eclectic British style at affordable prices, Topshop is the place to be!

Karmaloop
www.karmaloop.com

Karmaloop is the world's biggest online retailer of streetwear with sneakers, apparel and accessories from Vans, Obey, Wildfox, Pendleton and so on. The lay-out of the shop is a bit messy, but you can find great bargains to complete your wardrobe.

Lots to wear
www.lotstowear.nl
This is a rather small but very classy Dutch webshop. You can surf here to shop Stella Nova, CCDK, The Swedish model, Benedikte Utzon and - one of our favourites - the ecoluxury brand Camilla Norrback.

Modekungen

Modekungen

www.modekungen.se

Looking for some Scandinavic cool? Go visit Swedish online shop Modekungen for basic shirts, edgy jewellery, very pretty shoes and great knits.

Stylist Pick
www.stylistpick.com

What we love about this webshop, is that it's a bit more personal; you can complete the quiz and discover your style profile. From that moment on, the stylists will fill your showroom with a personalised selection of shoes, bags and jewellery. Perfect!

9 straatjes online
www.9straatjesonline.com
Whenever we are in Amsterdam, we go shopping in the charming '9 Straatjes' (the 9 little streets) area. This area is known for its historic, charming character (it's even part of the Unesco World Heritage List) and has a great range of original shops and boutiques. Since June 2011, you can get access to the lovely boutiques of the 9 Straatjes area anytime, anywhere, thanks to this webshop. With this unique concept (bringing a whole area of independent shops who sell different and unique products and collections, together under one digital roof) this online shop definitely stands out from the rest of the webshops out there.

Vanessa Bruno jacket @Aso

ASOS
www.asos.com
UK's biggest online fashion store is a shopping walhalla! Whenever in need of some inspiration or fashion updates, ASOS is the first place we run to. Be sure to check the designer section for some super hot labels: Vanessa Bruno, Cacharel and J Brand.

debut of some super hot labels on ASOS.

We Like Fashion
www.welikefashion.com

Welikefashion.com has brands like Modstrom and Club Manhattan, but also French Connection and Gestuz. In their ‘Magazine’, they offer you tons of fashion suggestions on how to pick up a celebrity’s style, how to wear that latest trend, and what to wear it with. This makes it easy to shop the look and have it delivered at your doorstep. If you’re still a little scared of shopping online (trust us, you don’t have to be!) you could swing by their real-life shop on the Van Baerlestraat 108 in Amsterdam.

Nelly

www.nelly.com
Sweden-based nelly.com offers a huge product range (there are over 750 different brands) and is very easy to use - it's one of our favourite online shops. There is something for every occasion and every shopping budget!

DIARY: Last week in 5 pictures

2012-01-01T11:10:00.000-08:00

1. Two years and still going strong
2. Mistletoe... you know what to do (@Lila Grace)
3. Black Milk leggings
4. New hair - caramel colour
5. Hangover sushi

For more pictures, visit our Flickr page

INTERVIEW: JuDeLovesYou!

2011-12-31T06:47:00.000-08:00

When shopping in Antwerp, it might be nice to leave the Meir & the Nationalestraat behind and go for a little treasure hunting in the smaller streets. Like the Steenhouwervest for example. Although the Episode store recently closed its doors and A Cut Above had to close the books, the street still has a lot to offer; Filippa K for men and women, The Public Image and JuDeLovesYou. We had a chat with Julie of JuDeLovesYou. Let's go!

Fuwarinka gum

Steve & Charlie: So, is JuDeLovesYou a store? Or a gallery? Or both?
Julie - JuDeLovesYou: Both really. JuDeLovesYou is a fun concept store and a fresh art gallery. I wanted to open a store that would offer plenty of unique, different or hard to come by items and i wanted to combine that with a small gallery. The outlay of the store was just right for it since this had been an art gallery previously.
Well when I say that it is also an art gallery, I have the pretention to state that it's a real art gallery; it’s just a space where we try to give young fresh artists the opportunity to show some of their work in a less formal way than an established gallery would. Making it more accessible to people who would never visit a gallery in other circumstances.
I call it a concept store because i don’t just sell jewelry, or toys or shirts or cushions… and I want to be able to sell what ever I feel like without being labeled as a jewelry boutique or toy store. I want to sell furniture as well as candy, all kinds of items under one roof without having to choose.

Cross ring

S&C: How did you come up with the name?
JDLY: Well JuDeLovesYou is 1 word and not 3. The « JuDe » part is my nickname. It’s actually a combination of the first 2 letters of my first and last name. The « LovesYou » part stands for the concept behind the store which is quite simple : the things I love, I sell in the store and therefore I share with You. The capital letters are just a way to give structure and clarity.

S&C: We noticed you sell a lot of Japanese products. What's your connection with Japan? Do you travel there often?
JDLY: Well in a previous life i worked with Japanese and American clients and when they heard I was going to open my own store they offered their help. I try to travel there as much as i can but it’s far and expensive so I use my spies ^-^. I’ve always been fascinated with Japan. I love their sense of style and their attention to details. They see and create art into everything from food to gardening. They elevate everyday things to art form. It looks effortless and simple yet it takes a lot of effort and dedication to make it look so simple.

S&C: Who's your typical customer?
JDLY: There is no typical customer. I’m always amazed at who buys what in the store. It goes from kids to grandmothers and from fashionistas to dock workers. And I LOVE that, I love the idea that my store caters for all these different people and that they find things they like enough to purchase. I’m always grateful to see that, with all those big chain stores who seem to take over and rule the high streets, people still shop at independent stores. I think it’s very important that we as independent stores keep trying to offer different items so we can all keep some individuality and don’t let ourselves believe that cheap mass production is the only way forward. People need to be reminded that it is good to be yourself with your own unique style and taste and not go with the flow and accept all you get forcefed by big corporations. Dare to be different and be curious!

Steve & Charlie: Do you have a favourite item you're currently selling in the store?
JDLY: Difficult to say. I’m a big jewelry fan (especially rings) but I really adore the Shine Shine cushions. Amongst other designs they have the most fabulous Obama commemorative cushion covers. All cushions are limited editions and it took me blood sweat and tears to finally have them in the store.They come from a South African textile company called Shine Shine and are designed by Heidi Chisholm. I LOVE her work. Her designs are in the style of traditional African commemorative cloths but with bold, modern lines and cheeky subject matter. She has now moved from South Africa to New York and started her own brand called Extra Fancy (we sell a gorgeouse necklace and Michelle Obama bag from her Extra Fancy brand). Next to her own brand she still makes graphic designs for different companies and brands like Afro Tea (available at JuDeLovesYou). She designed the graphics on the fab Afro Tea tins.

S&C: What does the future bring for JDLY?
JDLY: The future is unwritten ! I guess trying to get JuDeLovesYou more out there. In January, thanks to Mark Goss and the Fiend Project, we will be present at the « Fiend Project Festival » market at De Winkelhaak in Antwerp. We have just launched our online store and we will continue to support young upcoming artists and offer fun new items. Wherever this will take us i don’t know but the sky’s the limit for sure ^-^.

JuDeLovesYou
Steenhouwersvest 13
Antwerp (2000)
Opening Hours: Fri, Sat, Sun: 11am - 6pm

BEAUTY: Macaroon make up by Ladurée

2011-12-29T11:31:00.000-08:00

We fell in love with Ladurée's macaroons last time we were in Paris (check the pictures here) and we didn't think there was a possibility we could love Ladurée even more, but then came the news that the house is launching its own cosmetics line.

Think: 20 different blush colors in the form of cameos, lipsticks and liquid foundation. All under the name of Les Merveilleuses de Ladurée, these goodies will be produced by Albion and launched in March 2012 in Japan. The make up line will be introduced in Europe next Fall, followed by the U.S. and elsewhere in Asia. Can't wait!

FASHION: PATTA x ASICS GEL Saga @Avenue Store

2011-12-29T04:34:00.000-08:00

Patta is one of THE sneaker and streetwear institutions worldwide. From time to time, the Amsterdam-based store sets up a collab with a high-level partner in the business and creates a product. Such as the ASICS x PATTA Gel Saga.

This is not the first time Patta hooks up with Asics; back in 2007, the Gel Lyte III was created, a runner which had the weapon of Amsterdam as a main theme. The Gel Saga still uses the trademark Amsterdam colours (black, red and white) and added a little green. Because of the season it was released in, it had to be a 'though' sneaker; so materials as premium leathers, nubuck and rubberized leather were used.

The runner was launched at € 150,00 on December, 22 at the Patta store and was sold out in a matter of hours. You can read about it here.

If you didn't get your pair in Amsterdam, you can get still get it in Antwerp, as the release is set on December, 30 at 11am at Avenue Store. Start off the new year with a fresh pair of kicks!

Avenue Store
IJzerenwaag 1
Antwerp (2000)
One pair per customer - available sizes US 6-12, € 150 including a set of gloves.

Pictures: Tim Pen

FASHION: The ideal gift by LOTT. gioielli

2011-12-28T03:06:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, a small gift arrived in the mail. It was a LOTT.gioielli lucky clover bracelet, all covered in gold. Hope it brings us lots of luck in the New Year..

This bracelet makes an excellent (late) Christmas gift! You can get yours at echtietsvoormij.com.

FASHION: The Black Milk community

2011-12-25T13:11:00.000-08:00

If you like to wear radical leggings, go visit Black Milk Clothing, the mecca for nylon addicts. Robyn has been spotted with some Black Milk leggings and Rihanna has been wearing their bathing suits.

Black Milk is an independent label which was built up by James Lillis, an Australian fashion designer. When Lillis was broke several years ago, he decided he wanted to learn how to sew and create leggings in the cheapest material available - nylon lining. One day, during a fitting, a girl asked if she could buy the leggings she was wearing. James figured that if one girl was prepared to buy one pair of his leggings, there were probably a hundred girls out there who would do the same. His label was born and would soon become a cult leggings brand. An ONLINE fashion brand, as real shops weren't interested in his clothes. So James went online and never regretted his decision.

Today, a large community of girls sharing a passion for the brand has become the Black Milk 'tribe'. A tribe that is all about the love for interesting legwear. James first created a blog (Too Many Tights) that featured as a platform for the tribe to post pictures and comments about the brand. To create more interaction with the tribe, a Facebook page was set up and soon turned out to be a much more effective way to promote the brand. Maybe a little too effective; sometimes, Black Milk even closes the shop for a couple of days because the staff gets overwhelmed with the workload.

James still blogs about new designs and prints, but he also created apps and tools that enable the tribe to communicate among each other and to experience the brand to the fullest. Such as live photo sharing on the website, a mobile friendly webshop and an app that gives you a back massage if you spend over $5000 (!). Check blackmilkclothing.com. And while you are there, check our favourite items of this season's collection: the Galaxy Purple leggings, the Galaxy blue leggings and the Wet Look black leggings.

Oh, and the Sunset Swimsuit, which is perfect for Charlie's Miami trip.

DIARY: Last week in 5 pictures

2011-12-25T08:54:00.000-08:00

1.Huggable Christmas tree

2. White fur vest (Emma vzw)

3. Some presents I bought... for myself

4. Bow (Urban Outfitters)

5.Yay!

Click here to see more pictures

MUSIC: The Weeknd finishes trilogy

2011-12-22T01:36:00.000-08:00

Could this Thursday BE any better? The Weeknd just released the third mixtape, Echoes of Silence, finishing the trilogy started earlier in 2011.
As I'm writing this, I haven't even listened to all of the tracks, but I already know I'll be playing this mixtape all day long, over and over again. Be sure to check track n° 7 (The Fall), produced by Clams Casino and the excellent Dirty Diana cover (n° 1).

Get your digital copy here.

MUSIC: Tuesday Blues w/ ASAP Ant

2011-12-20T11:56:00.000-08:00

So here's an early Christmas present: a new track from one of the members of the ASAP Movement, ASAP Ant. The beat kind of reminded us of Sandwitches, a track by Tyler the Creator. We'd be happy to hear more of the ASAP movement in 2012. For now, press play.