Boho Chic

My livingroom getting ready for Xmas

2011-11-20T17:32:00.000+02:00

Tally Weijl winter xmas collection 2011

2011-11-19T20:49:00.004+02:00

Tally Weijl has got some seriously cute dresses for those Christmas parties.. I wore one yesterday at a champagne dinner at a friends' house!

My Christmas stocking filler wish list

2011-11-15T21:32:00.001+02:00

Santa baby outfit from www.victoriassecret.com (although this has already been ordered) ;)

Michael Kors tortoise watch www.michaelkors.com

Pink Moet et Chandon, unlimited amount www.moet.com

Agent Provocateur underwear from www.agentprovocateur.com

A white Persian kitten

Silk Marilyn corset top from www.wheelsanddollbaby.com

ALAÏA Studded suede ankle boots from www.netaporter.com

Rock and Rose parfume by Valentino

True Decadence sequin ruffle dress www.asos.com

Doggy fashion

2011-11-12T01:22:00.001+02:00

I have bought some adorable winter coats for my dogs from this company http://stores.ebay.co.uk/123cheezstore/ on Ebay... That bunny eared jacket on my French Buldog Dita made every passer by smile... :D

Zara winter 2011 favorite looks

2011-11-12T01:13:00.000+02:00

Butterfly and flower tattoos

2011-11-07T22:12:00.000+02:00

How to win an Oscar? Play mad, alcoholic or a hooker

2011-10-29T14:00:00.005+03:00

The Oscar Academy's choices have first been said to be based on money and political correctness and only second for the merits and distinctiveness of acting roles.

However, victorious roles do still have a lot of the same ingredients; The prize often goes for real-life-based character roles, which portray a deranged, eccentric, or society misfit personality type.

Jodie Foster as a hooker in Taxi Driver

Simply put, it's worth playing a role of a 'simple person'. Tom Hanks received an Oscar for best actor for his role in Forrest Gump. He played a role of a slow but kind hearted character in 1994. Intellectually limited roles have also won Oscars for Leonardo DiCaprio, in What's Eating Gilbert Grape, for Billy Bob Thornton in Sling Blade, and for Sean Penn in I am Sam.

Tom Hans in Forrst Gump

1975 winner of five Oscars, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, questioned what is traditionally considered as "crazy". The film was a critical view of society's classic polarized extremes. The film asked, does extreme patronage make insane even those, who are not yet crazy. In his Oscar winning role, Jack Nicholson played a mischievous but mentally healthy criminal, who ends up brain dead and eventually a vegetable due to have been taken into institutional care.

Jack Nicholson in One Flew Over Cockoo's Nest

Electric shock therapy was also given to the character played by Oscar-winner Geoffrey Rush. He played a role of schizophrenic pianist David Helfgott in Shine. Since then, Rush was also nominated for an Oscar playing a mental hospital patient, Marquis de Sade, in the film Quills.

Angelina Jolie was awarded an Oscar for her role as a sociopathic mental patient in the movie "Girl Interrupted", and in 2002 it was the turn for Oscar for Nicole Kidman for her role as manic depressive Virginia Woolf in the film "Hours".

Nicole Kidman in the Hours

The road to winning Academy Award could also be shortened, if you play a role of a character who is mad, but also has a special talent.

Dustin Hoffman received his second Oscar for playing an autistic but mathematically talented man 'Raymond' in the film "Rain Man" in 1988.

Nobel Prize winner, but paranoid schizophrenic mathematician John Nash, was the main character of the film "Beautiful Mind" (2001). The in-depth interpretation of the the unpredictability of the human mind brought an Academy Award win for Russell Crowe.

Sometimes passion to kill is interwined with mental instability. Anthony Hopkins is best known in his role as Hannibal Lecter, a civilized, yet psychopathic serial killer in the Silence of The Lambs (2001). Hopkins won an Oscar for his role as this cryptically terrifying cannibal.

Jack Nicholson as Hannibal Lecter in Silence of the Lambs

Charlize Theron proved to be more than just a pretty face in her role as the Finnish-born serial killer Aileen Wuornos, in the film Monster. Theron transformed herself almost unrecognizable and she grabbed an Oscar for it in 2003.

Charlize Theron in Monster

Playing a prostitute, or so-called "easy woman" roles have brought an Academy Award win for at least ten actresses.

For Jodie Foster, a major breakthrough for her early career and for winning an Oscar was due to playing a role of a hooker in Scorsese's classic Taxi Driver, as well as for Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman.

1960 as many as four actresses were nominated for playing promiscuous female roles. Elizabeth Taylor won an Oscar, for playing a telephone girl, in Whose Afraid of Virginia Woolf.

Playing an alcoholic have brought Oscar for James Coburn in 1998 and for Nicolas Cage in 1995. Female alcoholics have been seen less frequently. However Halle Berry was a first African-American female to win an Oscar for her alcohol loving role in Monster's Ball.

A profound tackling of a film character's psyche someties takes its toll. The problems do not always end when the camera stops filming.

Oscar winner Heath Ledger told in The New York Times interview that identifying for his role as a Joker in The Dark Knight, lead him to suffer from insomnia. Ledger took the role in its sadism further than anyone before.

Heath Ledger as Joker in Dark Knight

Coincidence or not, the actor's anxiety increased during the filming, and he died tragically because of drugs overdose in January 2008.

Original article in Finnish by Annika Väisänen in Helsingin Sanomat: http://www.hs.fi/kulttuuri/artikkeli/Mistä+on+Oscar-roolit+tehty/1135242936072

Rock'n roll street chic

2011-10-29T12:27:00.002+03:00

Just some simple ideas for little bit of rock'n roll street chic

Nordic warrior and 70's rock chick

2011-10-22T13:30:00.000+03:00

The "Nordic warrior" and "70's rock chic" theme for the Tally Weijl fall and winter 2011 collection is just quite simply adorable. And suits me just perfectly because of my Nordic wilderness 70's something origins... They also have "back to school" outfits which I will be needing tonight for a secret party for that theme. In fact heading to their store right now...

TALLY WEiJL Spring Summer Campaign 2011

2011-10-21T17:01:00.000+03:00

My apartment in Malta

2011-10-21T15:15:00.004+03:00

Bedroom
(Bed linen from Zara Home, lamps from Next Home, accessorize from Zara Home, shaggy rug from Atrium, French Bulldog from Daystar's Kennel from Michigan via Dallas via New York via Helsinki to Malta)

View from bedroom

Bathroom (Rug from Indiska)

Dining room looking into the garden (Dining table from Atrium, the cabinet from grandparents, mirror from Zara Home, lamp from Zara Home, ethnic masks from Ghana, tea light holders from Stockmann, Champagne glasses from Tarjoustalo, Helsinki)

Living room and fireplace (Cushions from Indiska, floor pouf from Algeria, mirror from Indonesia, rug from Ikea)

Garden seating area (Patio furniture from Atrium)

Balcony towards the sea

Living room looking into the bedroom

Kitchen

Living room (Wall hanging from Indonesia, lamp vintage from Helsinki, cushion Designers Guild)

My Helsinki

2011-10-21T09:53:00.001+03:00

Annika Väisänen September 26, 2010

For the European holiday makers, Finland was long ignored as a cold and mysterious place with "strange" rituals such as sauna, vodka and food that even Silvio Berlusconi sneered at. With urban myths including polar bears roaming the streets, the capital Helsinki, was often passed as a second choice to other major European cities.

All of a sudden all the hip travellers seem to be flocking to Finland. Last year Helsinki, the capital, was rated the most modern and trendy city-break destination in Northern Europe. Newsweek chose Finland as "the best country in the world".

What Helsinki might lack in size and grandeur it will make up in personality. Located in a kind of cultural and geographic limbo between Russia, Sweden and Norway, Helsinki is a mixture of both east and west.

An efficient way to see Helsinki on a weekend trip is to jump into a local tram from the central railway station. Number 3T and 3B go around the city in a circular number eight shape. The tram heads via Kamppi shopping center towards Töölö, a Jugend style 'middle class' neighbourhood where the ex-president and Nobel price winner, Martti Ahtisaari also owns a penthouse.

On the way you will have the opportunity to visit Temppelinaukio kirkko, a church built entirely under rock. In Töölö market square it's worth stopping for a quick bite in locals' favorite restaurant, Mamma Rosa (www.mammarosa.fi). They serve some of Helsinki's best pizzas and antipastos as well as more traditional Finnish dishes such as fresh salmon.

From the Töölö neighbourhood the tram continues via Linnanmäki amusement park (www.linnanmaki.fi) to Kallio, an area favored by students, artists and the 'bohemian' folk. The Finnish film director Aki Kaurismäki has shot many of his films in this working class neighborhood. Located in the Kallio, you also find some great bars such as the hip but laid back Kuudeslinja club, located in an old warehouse (www.kuudeslinja.com).

The tram 3B will take you to the some of the most prestigious areas of Helsinki. It first passes via Senate Square, a grand location for weddings, summer festivals and events. The architecture in the Russian Imperial style was encouraged by Russian Tsar Alexander Iafter Finland was annexed by Russia from Sweden in 1809. The square was designed by German architectCarl Ludvig Engel.

The journey will next pass by the main market square, Kauppatori, where you can taste Finnish delicacies, as well as shop for souvenirs. A boat from the market square, will take you to the Helsinki Fortress Island, Suomenlinna (www.suomenlinna.fi/). It was built during the Swedish era, the buildings dating back to the mid-18th century. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage list. Suomenlinna island is now home to about 850 inhabitants.

The tram continues to Kaivopuisto Park, which is the largest park in Helsinki. At the entrance of the park you find legendary Kaivohuone -restaurant, favored by Helsinki's 20-somethings and NHL ice hockey players.

A short walk away are Ullanlinna-, and Punavuori districts with Art Nouveau style buildings dated back to early 1900s. If you get peckish on the way, you should stop by in Cafe Carusel, a restaurant and a terrace in one of the best locations in Helsinki, just by the sea. (www.carusel.fi)

Punavuori - 'designer district' has got some of the best bars in Helsinki such as the laid back and hip Beatroot (www.beatroot.fi), A21 (www.A21.fi) which was chosen on the world's best bars list, and super stylish Ahjo (www.ahjoclub.fi). In Punavuori you will also find Helsinki's popular, 'hetero friendly' gay clubs such as Don't Tell Mama (www.dtm.fi) and Lost & Found (www.lostandfound.fi) which are also favored by many Finnish celebrities such as the rocker Ville Valo from HIM.

Ullanlinna and Punavuori host an array of trendy boutiques selling international and Scandinavian designer clothing for both men and women; for example Lumi on 14 (www.lumion14.com), My o My (www.myomy.fi) and IvanaHelsinki (www.ivanahelsinki.com). IvanaHelsinki was just recently featured in New York Fashion week. You will also find several interior design boutiques and galleries in Punavuori.

The perfect way to end the tram 3B journey is to drop off at the heart of Helsinki's shopping center, on Aleksanterinkatu. There you will find Stockman, one of the oldest department stores in Finland (www.stockman.fi). Built in the 1930's this building not only represent some grand architecture, but hosts many famous Finnish designer goods under one roof such as Marimekko (www.marimekko.fi), Iittala (www.iittala.com) and Hackman (www.hackman.com/hackman/index.htm).

Accommodation

SplurgeKamp (www.hotelkamp.fi)
If it's good enough for world class stars such as the rapper Snoop Dog, it's probably good enough for almost anyone else too.

Party

Klaus K
A cool, boutiques style hotel with top class service. (www.klauskhotel.com)

Glo
Modern urban life style hotel with "studio" -like open plan rooms and luxurious finnish. The service is top notch and they even give your dog it's own bowl and a bone! (www.palacekamp.fi/in_english/hotels/hotel_glo/)

Save

Omena
Value for money "self service" hotels in the heart of Helsinki. (www.omenahotels.com)

Eat

Teatteri
Stylish designer venue (bar, restaurant, two terraces and a club) which could easily rival the Sanderson hotel in London. Business people and celebrities. (www.royalravintolat.com/teatteri)
Vespa
A popular Italian restaurant serving tasty homely food, located next to the Esplanad Park. (www.ravintolavespa.fi)
Sipuli
Finnish fine dining in a stunning location by the sea. For the more grown up atmosphere (and price). (www.royalravintolat.com/sipuli)
Mamma Rosa
A locals' 'secret', with some of Helsinki's tastiest pizzas and antipastos as well as more traditional Finnish dishes such as seasonal fish, lamb and steak. (www.mammarosa.fi)
Torni
Drinks with the very best view over Helsinki from the 14th floor.
(www.ravintolatorni.fi/ateljeebar.html)
Tamarin
Well priced Thai restaurant, well seasoned food and pleasant atmosphere in the trendy neighbourhood of Punavuori.
(www.tamarin.fi)
Siltanen
Easily the best brunch in Helsinki. (www.siltanen.org)

Party
Ahjo
Popular DJ's playing lounge, dance and latin music for the Nordic jet-set in a sleek and very Scandinavian atmosphere.
Ahjo’s age limit is 24, but the average age is around 30.
(www.ahjoclub.fi)
Beatroot
Furnished with 50's style sofas and lamps, it's dark cosy sells some of the cheapest beer in this trendy Helsinki neighborhood. Popular for under 30's growd.
(www.beatroot.fi)
Kuudeslinja
A laid back music club, located in an old warehouse in the bohemian Kallio area. (www.kuudeslinja.com)

Galleries and museums

www.ateneum.fi
www.kajstenvall.com
www.kiasma.fi
www.taidehalli.fi

Fly:
From Malta via major capitals such as Paris and London by Easyjet (www.easyjet.com). Finnair (www.finnair.com), Lufthansa (www.lufthansa.com) and Air Malta (www.airmalta.com) fly via Frankfurt.

Annika Väisänen is originally from the nordic wilderness, close to Lapland in Finland. She grew up as a teenager in Malta and moved backto the island in 2010 to study law at the University of Malta. Annika has written for several magazines and newspapers around the world, such as Elle, ArtReview and Helsingin Sanomat. http://www.facebook.com/annika.vaisanen

Originally published in: http://www.planetmona.com/travel-on-planetmona/63-city-guides/3231-helsinki-a-pocket-size-metropolis

Follow my Blog

2011-10-20T15:25:00.003+03:00

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Or otherwise click on the small icon on the right upper corner of my blog! ;)

Paris travelling tips

2011-10-20T14:22:00.010+03:00

A weekend in Paris is not quite long enough. There is so much to see. But whatever you do, don't just stick to Champs-Élysées and the Eiffel Tower. My favorite locations in Paris are Belleville and Le Marais.

Belleville is a colorful, multi-ethnic neighborhood and also home to one of the city's two Chinatowns. As well as it is a cool area to stroll around, you can get some real fashion bargains there.

One of my favorite shops in Paris, http://www.antoineetlili.com is located close to there.

During the 80s Belleville became popular with the Parisian artists and musicians. They were attracted by the cheaper rents, the numerous vacant large spaces, as well as the old Paris charm of its small roads. Many artists now live and work in Belleville and studios are scattered throughout the quartier. Some abandoned factories have been transformed into art squats. The iconic French singer Édith Piaf grew up in Belleville. Also the 'Amelie' actress Audrey Tautou lives there now.

Le Marais, is the best shopping district in Paris. You can find some big interior design shops there as well as lovely little boutiques selling fashion by new and upcoming designers as well as second hand designer clothes. Be careful though when buying 'designer' items. In one shop I was asked for 900€ for a Chanel handbag which I could immeaditely see was a fake.

Marais is also one of Paris' best locations for art galleries. As well as having become a fashion district, it has tons of trendy restaurants too. The neighbourhood has experienced a growing gay presence since the 1980s, as therefore has many gay cafés, nightclubs, cabarets and shops.

It was a one hot and amazing summer...

2011-10-19T20:19:00.008+03:00

At the Palace Hotel Malta...Had an amazing Birthday in Baia Beach club...

Sailing with friends around Comino and Gozo...

Made some new big friends...

Car races...

Baia Beach Club...
The Terrace at the Villa, Meridien Hotel...
Met one special guy... ;)
Steven Spielberg parked in Malta with his super yacht...
So many great nights out...

Some more sailing...

Gourmet Thursdays

Bedouin bar in Westin Dragonara...

Passion Lagoon...

We can safely conclude it was a summer to remember! <3

Furniture restoration projects

2011-10-19T19:01:00.005+03:00

Since moving to Malta I have bought and restored a lot of antique furniture. They are fairly easy to find and cheap to buy here as many people do not appreciate old furniture and they prefer buying everything brand new. Which of course suits me just well. ;) I have bought 3 wardrobes, 2 dressing tables, a chest of drawers, bed side tables and some beautiful chairs that I restored with paint and new fabric. I even restored a brown old antique bed... Here are some results...

Beautiful patios

2011-10-19T18:43:00.008+03:00

Poly rattan furniture is weather resistant and stands rain better than most other patio furniture. It is very easy to keep clean and also suitable if you have pets as they often come with removable and washable covers. However the poly rattan furniture should also be protected at winter. This type of patio furniture works best in a contemporary patio or garden and I often mix and match and throw some colourful cushions on my sofa and chairs.

Sexy sultry bedrooms

2011-10-19T18:18:00.005+03:00

Chocolate hues, burgundy and purple with dark wood floors create a cosy nest for cold winter night.

Femme interview

2011-10-18T15:45:00.006+03:00

My interview on Time's Femme magazine on page 60.

Open publication - Free publishing - More beauty

End of summer sailing

2011-10-03T14:55:00.003+03:00

We ended the summer sailing season with yet another sail to Comino and Gozo with some lovely friends..

Unfortunately the sail finished on a rather sour note as I attempted some cliff jumping and ended up in a hospital for a week. But I am slowly getting better now, three weeks later with some help from lovely boyfriend, his family and my friends. I must be very lucky indeed..

Day on a yacht

2011-08-03T11:08:00.010+03:00

My birthday party celebrations got a fantastic kick start as we spent a day on a Yacht. First we sailed to Gozo, went for a swim there, then headed to Crystal Bay in Blue Lagoon, Baia Beach Club and finally parked in Portomaso. What a beautifull day it was and I got a birthday cake too!

Pictures from my Birthday in the Baia Beach Club

2011-08-03T10:47:00.012+03:00

I had such a beautiful birthday this summer with my beautiful friends in Baia Beach Club in... It included a gorgeous day, lovely sunset, and champagne naturalement... ;)

New life in Malta 2011

2011-06-09T00:48:00.008+03:00

I have not being updating my blog for a long time, but here are some new pictures of our life in Malta!

Ikat the trend of the summer 2011?

2011-01-29T11:13:00.008+02:00

The Ikat print seems to be everywhere this spring, both in fashion and in interiors. Ikat, or Ikkat, is the method of weaving that uses a resist dyeing process similar to tie-dye on either the warp or weft fibres.
The dye is applied prior to the threads being woven to create the final fabric pattern or design.

The word Ikat originates from Indonesia, but it is a near universal weaving style common to many world cultures. Likely, it is one of the oldest forms of textile decoration.

In Central and South America, what is labeled as ikat is still common in Argentina, Bolivia, Ecuador, Guatemala and Mexico.

I could not resist this rug from Zara home! It's absolutely fabulous and was a snip at 99€

Malta is where my heart is...

2010-06-15T01:36:00.011+03:00

I grew up in Malta and it will always have a special place in my heart.. <3

Fashion revival! Would you have thought of seeing these trends back?

2010-05-13T02:04:00.008+03:00

John Lennon "round" sunglasses are beginning to be everywhere! I hope the mirrored onces from the late 80's won't come back lol! They were too much to bear then, and they would be too much to bear now. :D

I think the 80's was such a disaster fashionwise anyway, and having lived my childhood in the 80's I already had my overdose of those track suits, neon colours and shoulder pads! Unfortunately the younger generations now, those bor in the 90's seem to love it... yakk... :/

On the other hand, I love the Lolita heart shaped glasses that seem to have a new coming too! aww!

Clogs are back for summer 2010, according to Elle. Is it good or bad? Not quite sure..Let's face it, they are not the most comfortable shoes to walk in. But they are effortles, and quick to jump in when you need to nip out of the house for those lovely Franch Martini's by a beach bar! They work with dress or jeans and for colder days you can wear thick stockings with them.

Old favorite, the good old parka can be turned into

something fresh looking by clever styling. Combine

unexpected textures such as a military parka

with a romantic lace mini dress. And tie a funky belt

on the waist. Wear with high heels.

Oh dear God... need I say more? My granny had similar pants in the 80's. Apparently the printed trousers are so hot again according to Elle. These are by Acne.

Can you over Accessorize? ;)

2010-03-19T01:54:00.006+02:00

I wish the summer was here already! Or at least a trip to Thailand or Bali! The summer collection from Accessorize is always to die for. I love the bold, hippy, ethnic jewellery especially. Here are some of my favorites from 2009!

... And here is a peek at the summer 2010 collection, inspired by Mexico....

Paris at spring

2010-03-19T00:59:00.014+02:00

Four sun filled spring days in Paris with Marjo, sun (was correctly forecasted), flea markets (Marche aux Puces), Paris fashion week show, (which we unfortunately missed), shopping, shopping shopping...

My favorites shopping place was definitely at La Vallée Village. In France fashion is as indivisible as Moët & Chandon - and nowhere is this more evident than at La Vallée Village - designer clothes outlet 40 minutes from Paris. In addition to getting lovely lemon cakes and cafe au lait from the cafes close by, here, shoppers with savoir-flair discover all their favourite brands.

My favs were Antik Batik, Cacharel, Dolce & Gabbana and Missoni stores, which sold everything at a fraction of their normal retail price. Beautifully displayed in smart boutiques in a sophisticated yet relaxed setting. Parisiennes are renowned as great investment dressers, and this is where they come to discover key pieces that will turn heads for season after season. I found this GORGEOUS dress by D&G (see pic) for 1000€.

Another great find was a designer outlet boutique Mouton á Cinq Pattes. (19. Rue Grégoire de Tours 75006, Metro: Odeón) I found a Alberta Di Ferretti silk "tutu" skirt for 50€, a friend found Hugo Boss suit. It is a tiny shop filled with desig

ner pieces such as Galliano and Moschino as well as less well known designers. I could have spent half a dy there browsing. Everything was discounted already and we also got an additional 50% discount at the cash point! yey!

In the evening after all the "hard work" shopping, a French gentleman friend of ours had booked a table at Barrio Latino... ya ya ya! ♥ And no evening In Paris is complete without a glass (or two) of Moet et Chandon. ;) What a wonderful weekend! Thank you my dear friends! :)

My favorite pieces from the Sonia Rykiel for H&M collection

2010-02-21T00:46:00.011+02:00

The Rykiel model frizzy curly hair (which is apparently so "now" according to Elle) you get by wrapping small partings of moist hair into a tiny knots with foil and then leave it over night... ;)

H&M Fashion studio

2010-02-21T00:06:00.005+02:00

In the H&M new Fashion studio you can create your own outfits on a virtual model of your choice. It's quite a handy tool to accesorize your outfit. This makes it easier to invent different outfits with few main pieces like here I did with a pink tutu skirt and black leggings for day and night. ;)

My favorite trends for summer 2010 blue nailpolish

2010-02-19T16:36:00.004+02:00

Blue and green nailpolish are so hot! Many different brands are selling them right now. Teal is the new black! If you are into manicures, get your tips done with a darker shade... Lovely!

My favorite trends for summer 2010 Over the knee socks

2010-02-19T16:23:00.004+02:00

I love the Sarah Jessica Parker look in Paris with over the knee socks, loose cardigan and a clutch bag. Be careful though it's easy to end up looking overtly slutty/and or school girlish. Keep the top part of the outfit classy and loose, like Carrie does!

My living room

2010-02-08T09:26:00.003+02:00

Always keep your faith in love. Its the greatest gift from the man above

2010-01-23T00:58:00.003+02:00

Winter wonderland

2010-01-22T23:24:00.002+02:00

winter dreams by lolitocha featuring Irregular Choice shoes

Items in this set:
Irregular Choice Women's Spit Spot Boot - Free Overnight Shipping &..., $340
MUKLUKS WE004 GREY UPPER LEATHER -, 145 GBP
Faux Suede Platform Pumps, $86
Eternal - Mini Heart Crossbody Bag - Guess, $57
Lulin - Croco Stamped Patent Mini Clutch - Guess, $53

I have been looking for a perfect winter jacket for years! And I finally found one. It's by Mackage.

Hat box heaven

2010-01-22T18:04:00.005+02:00

I will follow on the foot steps of Sarah Jessica Parker, and fly off to Paris with the cutest hat box luggage by Marc Jacobs. The limited edition hat box was only available for VIP customers of the Marc Jacob's store, but I managed to get one on Ebay! :) If you are lucky, you might be able to find a vintage one from flea market. Bon voyage!

Rocking winter

2010-01-22T00:51:00.001+02:00

Rocking Winter by lolitocha featuring Melissa shoes

Items in this set:
I Love LA Vest, 22 GBP
Women's Mongolian Fur-Trim Shearling Hooded Jacket - Forzieri, $2,200
Over Dyed Indigo Jamie Jeans, $80
High Waisted Basque Hotpants, $60
Alexander McQueen Leather peep-toe boots, $1,150

My pre Xmas trip to New York...

2010-01-05T00:31:00.016+02:00

I went to pick up my French Bulldog Dita from New York just before Christmass

New addition to our family

2010-01-04T23:52:00.005+02:00

Dita aka Daystar's Aphrodite, travelled all the way from USA, Michigan via Dallas and New York to Helsinki Finland! She is settling down in the Finnish winter wonderland, and albeit she does feel the cold easily, she loves playing in the snow with my older dog Becky. Dita's mama is US Champion Daystar's Baby Ruthie and papa is US CH Daystar's Apollo. She is a star! :)

What a splash of paint can do!

2010-01-04T23:45:00.004+02:00

I painted the dull white bathroom wall lilac. What a difference! I love it. Luckily my landlord is lenient and I am allowed to do what ever I want with the flat... almost? hehe...

Sex and the City 2 trailer

2010-01-04T22:01:00.002+02:00

Sex and the City 2 film is coming out 28th May! can't wait... :)

Happy New Year 2010!

2010-01-01T17:54:00.003+02:00

Both dogs, Becky and Frenchie baby Dita on the sofa and nobody is barking! :) The Kilim rug was a find from the flea market, the blue patterned cushions from a sale for 5€ each!

Sonia Rykiel for H&M

2009-12-03T01:29:00.001+02:00

Sonia Rykiel is one of my fav designers... AND on Saturday 5th December her collaboration collection with H&M will be in the Stores... !

Geekiness is now cool!

2009-11-22T02:10:00.004+02:00

Finally one high street store has capitalized on the geeky glasses that seem to be more fashionable than ever now.

These cheap and cheerful glasses are from asos.com but you can make some pretty geeky finds in flea markets as well. Just make sure the glasses have clear glass, or adjust the specs to your own eye sight in the optitans. Otherwise you might get dizzy feeling and eye distortions... :D

Quick update with wall stickers

2009-11-08T20:27:00.005+02:00

Wall stickers are a quick and cheap way to personalize any room. They are safe to use, even if you are renting, as they are totally removable.

It's amazing what a difference a lick of paint and some classy wall stickers can do! I found soma really pretty ones from Ebay with almost any text you can imagine. And the price was not too bad either, they start from 15 dollars or so.

Koolaburra - the Uggs updated

2009-10-11T23:16:00.007+03:00

Bored of Uggs? Well the Australians updated the classic sheepskin boot with a twist.

With every pair of boots you carry a message; Sometimes you just can't decide whether you are feeling naughty or nice...

Maybe Rockn Roll on Monday, Love Life Tuesday?,

Glamorous bathrooms gorgeous dressing tables

2009-10-02T22:12:00.007+03:00

Sometimes the little things make a huge difference. Splash of colour in the bathroom wall can really make the bathroom moments even more so refreshing..

Calm and colourfull bedrooms

2009-10-02T22:06:00.008+03:00

I am in the proces of getting a French Bulldog... ;)

Four poster beds

2009-10-02T22:02:00.009+03:00

When one day, I will have a huuuge bedroom, I will get a four poster canopy bed... :)

Zara home

2009-10-02T21:57:00.005+03:00

I just absolutely adore the autumn 2009 Zara home collection... It's so homely, cosy and so mee! :)

French Martini

2009-08-03T01:36:00.003+03:00

I used to love drinking this scrumptious cocktail in London. However, even then bar tenders don't always know how to do it.

Here is the secret recepe:

Vodka
Chanbord liquer
Pineapple juice...

It's so yummy, and as soon as I find the perfect glasses so serve them, I will host a French Martini and Kir Royl party!

My new flat!

2009-07-23T21:34:00.005+03:00

I finally found a lovely new flat right in the center of Helsinki, so plenty more space! It has got old wooden floors, Parisian style bathroom with bath tub and large windows. My first buy for the flat was this adorable 40's pink arm chair for 40€ from a fleat market and the KIlim rug for 15€! What a bargain! :)

Shoe storage

2009-06-15T18:10:00.002+03:00

Finally found a storage shelf for some of my shoes in the hallway! It was 7€ from Fida, and fits perfectly in the nook in my tiny entrance hall. :)
From left to right;
Top: Pink Vivienne Westwood, purple sandals from Rio De Janeiro, Lady Dragon by Vivienne Westwood, Marc Jacobs boots.
Middle: Turquise snake skin sandals Zara, Fringe boots Dinsko, blue sandals Marc Jacobs, pink sandals Ebay, gold boots Irregular Choice.
Bottom: Vintage boots Uff, skull trainers Ebay, flower shoes Zara, Vintage boots x 2 Ebay and Uff.

Ofelia second had market

2009-06-13T00:20:00.007+03:00

Had again a lovely weekend selling in the Ofelia second handmarket in Gloria Helsinki! :) Sold a lot of stuff as my beloved Moshino Jacket, Dior fishnets to a loving home! :) Lots of stuff still to sell, will be heading to Hietsu flea market this summer many times!

My apartment featured in Glorian Koti magazine <3

2009-06-13T00:03:00.006+03:00

Miami vibes

2009-05-13T15:00:00.006+03:00

I got this pink rattan bed head from Fida flea market for 15€! I love the exotic Florida vibe it brings to my flat! Basket is from Moko, lamp also from Fida. Bedding Designers Guild.

Summer weddings <3

2009-05-09T00:34:00.012+03:00

wedding outfit by lolitocha on Polyvore.com

I already bought 3 dresses to my friends' wedding, but when I saw this Coco Ribbon dress and the feather bag in Asos, I just had to get them!!.. At least a girl will have many options to choose from. ;) A vintage style flower fascinator from Ebay will finish the look! :)

dreamig... by lolitocha featuring Jessica Kagan Cushman bracelets

The gorgeous green dress with the bow is by Betty Jackson available at asos.com. The heart bag is the oh soooo expensive Marc Jacobs heart bag which I am one day going to get my hands on. Jessica Kagan Cushman bracelets are so adorable I want them all! Vivienne Westwood Lady Dragon shoes are made of recycled plastic, and with the price tag, they are not only good for your wallet, but also good for the environment.

One sunny day

2009-04-29T21:37:00.008+03:00

I think my dog enjoyes my new Designers Guild Tatami bedlinen as much as I! :)
I found a pair of antique chairs from a flee market. They need to be re-upholstered once I find the right fabric.

Some shows are just too pretty to keep in the closet! From left to right Vivienne Westwood's Je Kid and Lady Dragon shoes. Hello Kitty soft toy was a gift from a friend from a trip to Japan, and the books have followed me from all over the world.

It was love at first sight

2009-04-29T21:21:00.004+03:00

Amidst the economic crises I am doing my best to keep the wheels of economy rolling. I bought this gorgeous Marc Jacobs dress from Ebay. It was a total bargain about 60 euros. Normal price is apparently somewhere in the region of 700! The shoes are Vivienne Westwood and bangles in my wrist also Marc Jacob's.

Rock chic

2009-04-06T23:33:00.010+03:00

Some hot finds from Ebay.

Vivienne Westwood biker jacket 55 €, Marc Jacobs boots 120€, Marc Jacobs heart purse bag 110€
Marc Jacobs hobo bag 40€, Amplified Rolling Stones t-shirt, Shorts Chloe 15€

Wedding dress

2009-03-31T00:39:00.007+03:00

For my friends wedding in May I thought of wearing a fabulous Chloe dress, that was seen on Micha Barton, my new Vivienne Westwood Je kid booties with black stockings, Moschino satin bomber over it if it's cold and a vintage handbag and a black Marc Jacob's bubble chrystal ring. What do you think? :)

Summer outfits... <3

2009-03-31T00:28:00.006+03:00

Although it's snowing outside, I thought of putting together some lovely summer outfits that I recently purchased from Ebay...

Moschino Vallet

Miu miu retro classes

Marc Jacobs top

Skirt Paul & Joe

Boots Marc Jacobs

Rock bedroom

2009-01-31T14:36:00.003+02:00

It's funny how good old and new can look together. Old Sex Pistols posters work so well with Designers Guild bedding! Lamp is the classic Verner Panton's, Kilim rug Urban Outfitters, Moroccan leather pouffee Graham and Green and the lovely antique-Style ceramic table lamp at Spiegel.com.

Rock bedroom - by lolitocha on Polyvore.com

What happens backstage?

2009-01-21T18:16:00.006+02:00

Are the stories about what happens backstage in concerts true or just legend? I went to find out. Read about it in January issue of Soundi.

Photo by: Laura Mendelin

Mix your own collages

2009-01-16T21:56:00.006+02:00

Dream living room by lolitocha

Lolita 4 by sara_sara

you're ugly on the inside by moonpiglet™

www.polyvore.com is a great site where you can mix and match images from anywhere on the web, to create art, outfits, interior designs, or any kind of collage. You can browse and shop thousands of fab looks created by other users! Great for planning that dream interior, without spending a penny!

Going to San Francisco wearing flares and braids in my hair

2009-01-10T12:16:00.014+02:00

A very good friend of mine,fashion designer Mario Cadenas (from the Project Runway first season), predicts that next summer the 70's flowy tops, chunky heels and flared jeans will be huge. I love the Woodstock style, a bit of a hippy at heart as I am. I will be heading to San Franciso in this gear from www.asos.com. Siwy flared patch jeans, Meghan Fabulous silk bustier tunic top, and a braided hair band. Peace and love <3.

Read about Mario's new project SiameseMK designs in my interview from
http://www.hs.fi/haku/?kaikkiSanat=mario+cadenas

Mario dedicated one of his Pin-Up/ punk inspired t-shirts for me, titled "Kitty Von Bang"! (blushing) :)

These hot t-shirts are available from Mario's site www.siamesemk.com

Vintage fascinators - the cherry on top

2009-01-10T00:32:00.014+02:00

Vintage inspired fascinators, those cute "mini hats" haven't been this popular since the 40's. Burlesque style headress makes a perfect accesory to a summer party or a wedding. If Dita Von Teese wears them, you can't go wrong! I will get mine from www.ebay.co.uk to wear with a lovely dress in my friend's wedding in May!

Haute hippy

2008-12-30T00:01:00.006+02:00

This picture was taken of me by the "Paparazzi" arriving at the Make Up Store fashion party "Whisper" in Ahjo on Bulevardi, Helsinki.
The outfit was truly "vintage chic"; the sheepskin coat was 6 euros from the flea market Uff, the bag 1 euro from Fida outlet, and the vintage boots were 16 e! Watch out for the vampires...

http://www.makeupstore.se/fifi/showcase.php

A rock star who fears umbrellas, women, himself and me, yet does not fear performing to millions - Perttu from Apocalyptica

2008-12-29T16:51:00.006+02:00

Finnish metal band Apocalyptica recently made Finnish music history by becomming number one in the BDS- ja Mediabase Active Rock US single charts with their single "I don't care feat. Adam Gontier". Apocalyptica was originally known to play Metallica covers, ironically they beat up even Metallica on the lists! I interviewed Perttu Kivilaakso about their succes. Welll done boys!

http://www.hs.fi/kulttuuri/artikkeli/Apocalyptican+hurja+ei+en%C3%A4%C3%A4+sekoile/1135241683220

http://www.hs.fi/viihde/artikkeli/Apocalyptica+Metallican+ohi+USAn+listoilla/1135241366064

I interviewed Dita Von Teese for Elle

2008-12-29T16:35:00.012+02:00

I got to interview the lovely queen of Burlesque, Marilyn Manson's Ex, Dita Von Teese for December Elle Finnish edition. She told me, that she buys many of her clothes from vintage shops, jumps on a trampoline at home, and shops at Ebay. Check it out! ;)

http://www.elle.fi/lehti/2008/_a85245/joulukuu+2008++nro+1208/

Retro etnic

2008-12-29T16:15:00.010+02:00

Next summer the fashion will be getting influences from the 60's and 70's. Believe it or not, the flares are back, Siwy, 18th Amendment and DVB jeans are allready doing it.
Also interiors are following the retro theme. Go retro etnic in year 2009 with large prints, colour and patchwork, like these Urban Outfitter lovelies...

www.asos.com
www.urbanoutfitters.com

Missoni autumn

2008-10-07T01:48:00.010+03:00

My new Missoni towels and cushions give a spark of colour in a dark autumn season.

The rug in the lobby was a found from the flea market. It was knitted by this old lady, and cost 6€! I have seen similar rugs sold in Moko for 60€! huh...

The large floor lamp was also a find from the flea market. The wires need to be changed but it's absolutely fab. I am not sure who is the designer, but an Antique store estimated that it could be Danish origin.

I got the Hello Kitty as a birthday gift from Tokio!

Anatomy of Harajuku Lolita dress

2008-08-22T15:44:00.004+03:00

There are certain rules of dressing when it comes to the so trendy now, ”Lolita” dress code. Gothic lolita is the most common dress style, but almost as popular is the ”sweet Lolita”, definitely one of the cutest and most colorful. It has all the traditional lolita elements but with a more wider choice of colors, like light pinks, baby blues, deep red, deep blue, black, and even sometimes colors like lavender, canary yellow and mint green. This is also where you'll find the most fluff and frill. Sweet Lolita themes often are influenecd by fairy tales like Little Mermaid, Sleeping Beauty, Little Red Riding Hood, Cinderella and Snow White.

Picture: Hannele Piirainen

Autumn Missoni Look

2008-07-16T12:38:00.003+03:00

The look for my flat for autumn will be inspired by Brasil and who else does the warm vibrant colours that better than Missoni.

Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb Eau de Parfum The Sweetest thing

2008-07-07T15:17:00.003+03:00

Ooh lalaa this is the sweetest parfum I can think of. Opulent yet light and flowery, profusion of tea, bergamot, sambac jasmine, orchid,freesia, rose and patchouli, has the power to make everything seem more positive...

But with the price tag of 100dollars per bottle, until now I have been just dreaming about it... Maybe someone will get it for my birthday? ;)

Bring some summer inside

2008-06-18T14:22:00.001+03:00

The weather might not be so great outside, but I brought some summer inside.

Retro Coca-Cola glasses

2008-05-31T14:07:00.005+03:00

I don't normally eat in MC Donalds, but I had to this time, just for these glasses. I love the retro inspired Coke glasses that they give out with meals. Luckily a friend game me also 2 of them! Urban Outfitters sells similar ones, but with texts such as "slut" and "Douchebag" in them... haha.. ;)

Planning for my summer birthday

2008-05-31T13:50:00.003+03:00

I am planning to have my August birthday in the garden, with paper lanterns, cushions, and 5m sari fabric as the "ceiling". I already ordered the paper lanterns and the fabric from Ebay. I have lots of colourfull cushions, which I am going to use on the seatings, as here with Designers Guild cushions.

J'aime Rio <3

2008-05-30T23:44:00.006+03:00

Read about my adventures in Rio De Janeiro favela Acari in City.

with love from Brasil <3, Annika Väisänen

http://www.city.fi/artikkeli/Tervetuloa+slummiin/2684/

Patchwork quilts <3

2008-04-10T13:37:00.005+03:00

I love the new trend for handmade look quilts and cushions that Urban Outfitters and Ikea have picked up.

Here my friends authentic patch work quilt in Rio De Janeiro favela which I love.

Brazil meu amor

2008-04-05T23:16:00.005+03:00

My new Brazilian inspired 20sq m nook in Helsinki

2008-04-05T22:56:00.014+03:00

My apartment featured in Deko magazine

2008-04-01T16:05:00.013+03:00

I got a bit of a schock (albeit a pleasant one), in the news agent, when I saw my apartment in the front cover of the interiors magazine Deco! :)

My flat was also currently featured in the fashion magazine Trendi www.trendi.fi.

Livingroom after styling

2008-04-01T15:55:00.002+03:00

Graham and Green <3

2008-02-06T03:45:00.000+02:00

I'm in love with the new Graham and Green white metal and carved furniture. Seriously considering ordering it from England.

New Year new projects

2008-01-15T03:19:00.001+02:00

This year, my apartment is finally finished and it's time to leave it behind. I am going to move to a new apartment, in the oh so fashionably boho chic Punavuori, in Helsinki. I am going to have a chance to put in a new kitchen and this time I am going to make it retro glamorous with vintage accents such as a retro fridge and a retro espresso machine. The bottom cupboards are going to be Ikea Udden and glass shelves on the top.

2007-12-28T21:17:00.000+02:00

I am in love with Ed Hardy, the LA born tattooist label. It's huge in US, and I guess will be soon in Europe too...http://www.donedhardy.com

My white xmas

2007-12-14T03:28:00.000+02:00

My dresser

2007-12-14T03:15:00.000+02:00

My granny's dresser circa 1950 got a new lease of life when I varnished it dark and changed new handles from Ikea. I use it as a laptop and a night table now.

Table lamp is from Urban Outfitters, frame from Day, bag is Guess, Diptyque candle from London. Photo courtesy of Martti Järvi.

Hallway after styling

2007-12-14T03:11:00.002+02:00

Picture courtesy of Martti Järvi

Bedroom before and after...

2007-12-14T02:58:00.000+02:00