Indigo Rush: Discovering Sustainable Textiles in Bali

While staying in Ubud, Bali for more than two weeks, I enjoyed finding hand-dyed indigo garments here and there. They were certainly standing out from other pieces at local boutiques. The blue color was vibrant and the texture of the natural fiber pleasant to touch. 

The process of turning green leaves into brilliant blue dye through fermentation dates to ancient times. It’s performed in India, Southeast Asia, South America, Japan, Europe as well as West Africa. Natural fabrics made of linen, bamboo or cotton are used for this process, as synthetic fibers do not have pores to hold on to indigo. The marriage of natural fabric and non-toxic dye is an example of a beautiful sustainable textile.

If you are in Bali, I highly recommend that you keep an eye out for these vibrant blue pieces. They are little bit more expensive than other textiles but totally worth it. You may also check out my favorite stores, such as Ikat Batik and Manik Bali in the heart of Ubud, or look at my picks on Etsy.com:

1. Organic Hand dyed Indigo Blue Alpaca Yarn

2. Indigo Pigment for Natural Dying

3. Indigo Linen Shawl

4. Indigo Batik Cotton Dupatta

5. Indigo Wine Gift Bag

6. Indigo Block Printing Kit

7. Indigo Beach Bag

12 Travel / Style Essentials for your Trip to Bali

Spending a month in Bali was the experience of a lifetime. It’s a fairy tale-like island with inspiring art, yoga retreats, a thousand temples and breathtaking waterfalls. It will always have a special place in my heart.

I prefer practicality and value versatile pieces when I travel. Lots of solids, bright shawls & coconut oil are always in my suitcase. I also shop for local crafts and textiles while traveling, so my suitcase is usually half empty with a room to bring things back.

Certain things I’m listing here are available in Bali’s local stores and markets; however, if your time is limited and you’d prefer to be prepared, you may find these tips particularly useful. 

Lightweight Tees & Leggings

Before throwing tees & leggings into your suitcase, check out the label that indicates the fabric content. Make sure that it’s made of natural fibers. Lightweight cotton or lycra blend clothing is ideal for a hot, humid climate. 

Mosquito Repellent

Bali is known for many insects, including dangerous mosquitoes. Avoid their bites! I purchased my mosquito repellent in Bali. It has a pleasant orange scent. Lemongrass and tea tree oil are also natural mosquito repellents. I added them when customizing argan and jojoba body oil at one of the local shops. When indoors, I also use natural mosquito repellents, such as sandalwood incense sticks and oil.

Blotting Papers

High humidity is no friend to my combination skin; therefore, I like using blotting papers every few hours or so. Mostly over my T-zone where I get shiny. These papers also quite effective with keeping my phone screen clean.

Coconut Oil 

Why bring tons of beauty products when all you need is coconut oil? This oil is so versatile. It can be used as a makeup remover, sun protection agent, hair conditioner and even deodorant. Coconut oil also is known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and moisturizing benefits. 

Sandals and Sneakers.

I like both sandals and sneakers to have some sort of Velcro fastening. They are so convenient when going to yoga studios, swings, waterfalls and massages.

Cotton Shawl / Poncho / Scarf

Bali is about trips to waterfalls, beaches and pools. I find a poncho or shawl made of cotton or linen or a blend of both is a good investment. It can be used as a towel and provide protection from the sun. You’ll find plenty of these around the island, including beautiful handmade batik pieces. 

Swimsuits

Bring 2 swimsuits. If you are size L or larger, I recommend that you bring your own swimsuits to avoid spending time hunting for them. Local sizes run significantly smaller and size L, the largest size available, is equivalent to American size M. 

Sunscreen

No comments needed. You will need at least 30 SPF for adequate protection. 

Linen / Cotton Shirt Dress 

A solid shirt dress made of natural fibers is very useful when travelling. It can be a stylish dress or amazing beachwear. Wear it with various belts, jewelry and accessories. 

Light Raincoat / Parka 

During the wet season (October through May), occasional rain showers are quite common and it’s always great to have a very light parka or raincoat. In Bali, plastic ponchos are sold everywhere. Most of these are not durable and are not made with eco-friendly plastic. Rather than acquiring new plastic, bring your own raincoat. 

Full-length Statement Kaftan

I loved having my full-length statement kaftan when traveling to Bali. It was a perfect piece to take my outfit from temples to the beach.

Reusable Water Bottle 

Bring your own reusable water bottle, especially if you practice yoga. I purchased mine at one of the local yoga studios. I use it for cold distilled water and my favorite honey-lime-and-ginger tea.

ShopDrop: The App that Navigates Sample Sales and Discovers Amazing Brands

Hope that you all are having an exciting holiday season!

A few days ago, I had a chance to attend a shopping event where I discovered a great app that helps users navigate sample sales within New York City.

Being one of the most expensive cities in the world, New York forces people to look for discounted products, yet, finding sample sales can be frustrating and time-consuming. In addition, the brands are overloaded with an excess of products and don’t reach the right people.

The founder of ShopDrop, Estee Goldschmidt, found a great solution to these problems by creating an app that does the bargain hunting for you. After attending the event, I downloaded the app and was excited to see upcoming sample sales of La Perla, Helmut Lang, Dannijo, Marc Jacobs, John Hardy and many other of my favorite brands.

With one click of the button, I was able to send a few sample sales to my phone calendar. The app also has options to RSVP, check-in and leave comments regarding user experience. Also, within just a few clicks, you can share your favorite events via text, email them to your friends or share them across your social media platforms. Overall, I think the app is very user-friendly and useful for any budget fashionista.

Edun – one of my favorite sample sales

$15 Etienne Aigner clutches (original price $65)

$15 Etienne Aigner clutch (original price $65)

3 Deepa Gurnani headbands for $25 (Original price around $150 each)

Miista Shoes starting at $35

Lastly, the app not only lets you enjoy savings, it allows you to discover brands which you’ve never known. Many of the sample sales also curate cause-related actions. For instance, I discovered an amazing brand Aday, which offers modern basics. It sent 10% of its proceeds from its sample sale to FabScrap, a fabric recycling company. The company also accepted unwanted or slightly used clothing to donate to Wearable Collection.

As ShopDrop grows, I’d love to see more cause-related events and collaborations. Also, I’d like to see the app curating sample sales in other fashion capitals of the world.

Happy bargain hunting!

Fall Color Therapy at the Grand Opening of Michal Golan’s Studio Boutique

I love fall for its vibrant colors, crisp air, cozy sweaters and the anticipation of holidays to come.

Lately, I’ve been struggling with severe jet lag and post-travel blues after coming back from a one-week family reunion in Istanbul, Turkey. I have to tell you that it was an absolute joy and tremendous source of inspiration to discover the visual richness of designer Michal Golan.

Last week, I attended the grand opening of her Boutique Studio located on the edge of Garment District and Hell’s Kitchen. I loved the down-to-earth vibe of the event. (If you are a frequent jewelry shopper or event hopper, you probably know how intimidating some of those places and events can be!) And, of course, it was a pleasure to meet the designer in person, her assistant and some of her family members.

Michal’s inspiration comes from galleries, museums and street style. She also has a deep fascination with archaeology and ancient civilizations, as demonstrated by her use of symbols and hieroglyphics. Her collections include stunning eye-catching hamsa hands, crosses, evil eyes and other religious jewelry within the price range of $38 to $150 that could be a unique budget-friendly gift idea. I also loved her adjustable beaded necklaces, statement earrings, and pendant pins. Designer’s Earth Collection with its warm color palette is one of my favorites. Inspired by ancient Tribal Art, it’s made of African turquoise, carnelian and 24K gold electroplated over brass.

Handcrafted in New York City, each piece Michal Golan jewelry marked with designer’s signature and come with a lovely colorful pouch that will keep your jewels safe. I recommend checking her website for the more detailed design process and care guide. 

My post would not be complete without mentioning the designer’s mosaic artwork and home decor pieces.  From intricately designed vases to miniature jewelry boxes, they surely will liven up your space this holiday season!

Berenik NYFW SS18 Presentation

Highlights from New York Fashion Week Spring Summer 2018

While running some errands before my trip to Istanbul, I finally was able to take some time and reflect on the entire Spring Summer 2018 New York Fashion week with a fresh and different perspective. The greatest thing about NYFW is that during this particular time of the year the streets of the city seems to be more alive and exciting than ever.  Many locals come back from their vacations and there are more visitors than ever from various parts of the world. During this time of the year, there are more boutique and store events held in the streets of Soho, pedestrians look more dressed up than usual and overall, the city is filled with spirit of joy and celebration.

For me, it’s also a great opportunity to network with other influencers and industry insiders. An insightful chat with a PR woman about her daily life in the image analyst profession, a discussion about the athleisure trend with a PR intern and a small talk about upcoming projects over a glass of wine with a friend-artist from LA are always refreshing and fun.

So, here are the highlights from New York Fashion Week SS18 I’d like to share with you:

Sports and Glam

No matter what season it is, the athleisure trend seems to be here to stay and worth the investment. In case of you are tired of wearing your track pants, take a close look at Hakan Akkaya’s collection for inspiration. It  features on-trend athletic designs such as utility pockets, straps and stripes. It’s striking fusion of office, glam and active wear is absolutely wearable for both day and night.

 

Poetic Justice

I can’t resist mentioning LAN Yu SS18 collection this season again! Her maxi beige and lilac coats inspired by the Victorian era and Romanticism were absolutely stunning. Satin, velvet, silk and lace were at the center of the stage at the LAN Yu SS18 presentation. The entire collection was as always very feminine, yet modern and chic,  offering a wide range of beautiful pastel colors.

Dance in The Rain

Jarel Zhang, another emerging designer, offered a mix of bright colors and monochrome looks. I love the presence of both: innovative spirit and consumer awareness. The focal points of the artist’s collection were ultra-modern coats with oversized sleeves that are fun, chic and timeless. I think a very lightweight but well-protected coat that shields one from wind chill and rain is a must-have piece for any modern woman, especially if she lives in humid climate.  One of my favorite looks is the sheer red full length parka.

An Island Escape

Lastly, you have a choice whether to dance in the rain or escape to an exotic island. Cindy Monteiro’s SS 18 collection with its Cape Verdian vibes will inspire anyone to wear white clothes, enjoy chamuças and walk barefoot on the sand. Her fusion of natural materials into modern design makes her garments undoubtedly stunning, comfortable and  timeless.

Cindy Monteiro SS18 Image Credit: Instagram User @_evanliu

 

For more images and inspiration from NYFW SS follow me on my Instagram account @stylingontheedge

From Paris with Love: Review of the Rebecca Minkoff Fall 2017 Collection

At last, we’re in spring and I know that you share my enthusiasm.
To celebrate the beginning of the season, I headed to Paris — city of light, love and haute couture. I just got back.

While there, I took in Rebecca Minkoff’s Fall 2017 Collection, which was previewed in the Tomorrow Ltd. showroom in the heart of the city. 

If you love velvet, you’ll certainly appreciate this New York designer’s collection. Purses, accessories and simply adorable flats made from this beautiful fabric. Velvet is a hot trend that won’t go away for some time. I particularly love velvet mules.

I adore the designer’s wide selection of jeweled guitar straps to customize handbags. Very. Clever. Idea. Chic suddenly becomes practical in that you may have one bag and simply change the straps to match outfits. This is particularly useful for travel. All you have to put in your suitcase is ONE bag and few different straps for different looks.

You can also accessorize your bag with a Power Puff Pompon D’Alimentation, which has a USB and iPhone cord designed into it. You can give your phone a charging boost wherever you are.  Perfect accessory for every city fashionista! It certainly saved me in Paris, given my constant use of social media, Google Map and Uber ride applications. I highly recommend to to visit Rebecca Minkoff’s website for more gadgets and tech accessories. 

In signing off, I’d like to reiterate that the Minkoff collection is exquisite. It’s romantic, yet it has an edgy vibe. I think every woman can find something exciting that fits her personal style and taste from the new line. What do you think of it?

 

Lan Yu Fall / Winter 2017 NYFW: A Dreamlike Nostalgia for Suzhou

NEW YORK, NY – FEBRUARY 10:  Lan Yu Fall / Winter 2017 RTW: The Shows at Gallery 1, Skylight Clarkson Sq on February 10, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for IMG Models)

NYFW Fall / Winter 2017 : Diversity, Futurism, Modern Romance and More…

 

 

Hi everyone!

It’s finally getting warm here, in New York City! It’s been a tough month for me, as I’ve been trying to recover from bad cold, while balancing my job and freelance work.

Lately, I’ve been also debating whether I should change the name of this web page and focus on writing reviews about fine jewelry (the industry in which I work) or start anew with a photography blog focusing on fashion and design.

That said, attending the ready-to-wear fall/ winter 2017 New York Fashion Week and appreciating the diversity of amazing emerging designers, inspired me to return to this blog. Also, I find myself coming back because of the community I have here with all of you. I’m so grateful to my followers for supporting me on my journey. Without you, everything would be meaningless.

So, here are the highlights from fashion week that I’d like to share with you: 

Hakan Akkaya was on point this season. Predominantly consisting of black, his collection questions freedom and celebrates sexual, racial and gender equality. 

The aesthetics of Mémère’s premiere collection by Sarah Julia LeBlanc satisfy the exquisite taste of any romantic fashionista. Featuring thousands of white roses scattered throughout the presentation space and ethereal-looking models, the collection was inspired by the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi, which is centered on the acceptance of transience and imperfection. 

 

Photo Credit: Dan Lecca

A dreamy vibe and feminine looks were also predominant at Lan Yu’s runway show.  She is one of Asia’s most influential designers. The opulence of fabrics and soft mint hues of the collection were particularly striking. Please, check out my next blog post for details. 

Berenik, founded by a Swiss designer and painter, featured 50 diverse artists performing contemporary dance, which reflected its overall diverse nature and the freedom of dance improvisation. The blend of Scandinavian aesthetics, classics, athletic fashion and contemporary streetwear incorporated into the design make the collection accessible for women of any age and sizes. 

Denibi, a fashion house based in Barcelona, presented a striking collection featuring futuristic minimalism and African heritage. Denibi symbolizes a utopia for creatives. A place is created where individuals are able to push themselves to the fullest of their artistic ability with like minds and limitless possibilities.

Spring Summer 2017 Men’s Fashion Week: Nick Graham, Kenneth Ning and More!

I hope you are having a great summer and enjoying your summer vacation breaks to the fullest. I am a bit late with New York Fashion Week: Men’s SS17, due to my crazy, unpredictable schedule. Yet, better late than never!

I’ve always been attracted to certain men’s jewelry and accessories and once in a while I like to borrow from the men’s section. I think a strong masculine piece such as a structural blazer, men’s briefcase or men’s watch can add an effortless edginess, chic, and conservatism to the overall feminine look.

So, here are my favorite moments from New York Fashion Week: Men’s SS17.

1. I’ve loved Nick Graham’s innovative approach to creating a fashion show. The dazzling event allowed attendees to dive into the glamorous, prerevolutionary 1950s world of Cuba. Its world-class cabaret and club, Tropicana, was especially highlighted. 

The use of a striking visual presentation versus a traditional runway show was intriguing. It provided bloggers and editors with more time to analyze details, so they could create better content, while fully enjoying the 1950s Havana vibes. One of my favorite looks: effortlessly chic rolled pants, camo scarf, and retro sunglasses.

2.  I also found the Artistix and Andy Hilfiger “Equality” line to be quite inspirational. In particular, I liked the abstract prints by Artistix founder Greg Polisseni. I’d like to see more of these elements and prints incorporated in women’s clothes.

Photo Credit: Jason Konrad

3. Designed in New York and handmade in London, Passavant and Lee briefcases have such a sleek and modern look, combined with traditional craftsmanship. Functionality and timeless style are the key of this brand. I’d certainly recommend checking their website for product details.

Passavant and Lee NYFW: Men’s SS17 Presentation

Instagram User @stylebykish

4. Refreshing hues of navy and red and unexpected tropical prints in Parke and Ronen collection were a breath of fresh air during the men’s fashion week events. I also found checkered shirts tied around the waistline a la the ‘90s quite exciting and worth stealing.

Photo credit: Getty Images

5. Also, I loved Kenneth Ning’s innovative designs and military chic inspired by Stanley Kubrick’s 1987 British-American war film, “Full Metal Jacket.” The contrast between models’ emotionless faces and the rebellious deconstruction of designers’ garments was particularly striking. Three words would describe Kenneth Ning’s Men’s SS17 collection: edgy, innovative and effortless.