Stylish quote

"The most challenging part to dressing well is knowing how to be elegant while being casual."

Umberto Angeloni

 

Photo source: Elle Germany June 2011

Russian top-models: Inna Zobova

The day Inna Zobova was born her parents were told that their baby girl had a hole in her heart and was given 13 years to live. Full stop.

Three decades later, on a rainy October morning I was meeting Inna to talk about her life, modelling and projects she’s been working on recently. Dressed in a black sweater and trousers, beautiful elegant watch on her long wrist, blond hair, soft eyes, gorgeous smile… She is every inch of a top model who walked for Armani, Thierry Mugler, Valentino, Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Issey Miyake, Yohji Yamamoto, Balenciaga, Hanae Mori, Marc Jacobs, Nina Ricci, Hermes, Sonia Rykiel, Kenzo, Givenchy, Dries Van Noten, Vivienne Westwood and Christian Lacroix, appeared in dozens of campaigns from Dior, Armani, Hermes, Cavalli and Malizia to Wonderbra, L’Oreal, Nivea, Sephora and Gallery Lafayette and was photographed by the most influential fashion photographers for Vogue, Elle, Allure, Marie Claire, Glamour, Amica, L’Officiel and Glamour. A superstar.

We go to the very beginning, to the childhood of a kid who, until she was operated aged 6, had “a heart that was too big to fit” her chest. Whenever I read about it on the web, the story is presented as very dark and tragic, so I ask Inna what it was like back then… “I was a very active child,” she recalls. “So I had to be restricted, not run too fast, avoid exercise – there was always somebody to hold my hand…” As she continues it becomes very clear that Inna, no matter how delicate she looks, is fearless and strong and there was no way heart pain or anything else would stop her from living her life the way she wanted. “I never felt like an outcast – if we had a fight at school I’d always hit back just like any normal kid would” she laughs. Then her voice softens as she talks about her mum: “She was the one who lived with a constant reminder of my health problem, it was the hardest time of her life.”

Every year was precious and for a very long time nobody would make any solid plans about the future. Inna dreamed of ballet having fallen in love with performances in Bolshoi Theatre, Tchaikovsky and “The Nutcracker”, but the reality meant that she could never be a ballerina.

“When you live with a hole in your heart, you just have to deal with it.”

And so they did… With a laughter and a smile and a few sweet jokes. For a while Inna thought of becoming a vet and work with animals that she adored, but once the school was done with, she entered MGGU (Moscow State University for the Humanities) to study psychology and anthropology. She did some modelling as a side project to earn some money, won “Miss Russia 1994” and came 12th in the “Miss Universe” competition.

These were the first steps into the world of fashion that soon became a part of her life. In the mid 1990s Inna moved to Paris to work as a model and was surprised by the offers that followed. Viva Paris was the only one that didn’t promise to make her a super star overnight, but assured the young Russian that they would do everything in their power to make her a good model. “Becoming a part of Viva felt right. I was very serious about everything they told me and I owe them a lot. From learning about model management and working in the industry to becoming good friends – we’ve been together for 15 years now, it’s a long journey.”

When I ask her for advice on becoming a successful model, she explains: “Modelling is a business, just like any other business, so must be taken seriously. It is essential to find the right agency, the one that believes in you. Lets be honest, 70% of making it to the top depends on the agency and its strategies of creating a top model. Any good model agent knows the rules and how to apply them in order to get the results. That is why there are models who work for decades, reach the top and maintain their position for years and there are others who get into the industry to make quick cash and leave. Before you do anything else – find the right agency.”

In 2002 Inna Zobova became the next Wonderbra girl following the steps of gorgeous Adriana Sklenarikova and Eva Herzigova. “I didn’t want to go to the casting, but the agency made me. I came, saw all these 600 girls, turned around and left. I said to myself “I am not going to sit here wasting my time”. Two hours later I received a call from the agency. “They want you to be there, they want to see you tonight”.

The process of choosing the right girl took days. “When I came to Wonderbra, it was the time of Kate Moss, the grunge was out, the pin-up Wonderbra image was dated and very different from everything portrayed by Vogue and the fashion industry in general. As somebody who did a lot of runway shows and editorials I knew that straight away. They chose a slogan for me, “No body is perfect” and we shot the campaign. When I saw the photos I told them that I didn’t like the result. “If you want young women to buy your product, you need to make it more natural, sensual and strong, not pin-up style,” I told them.

I knew this project meant a lot of hard work and the times were changing, but at the end, we had 4 wonderful years together.”

Although Inna had to leave University after two years, she never stopped leaning and after moving to France continued her studies Sorbonne and currently attending art history course in the École du Louvre. “Eventually I will graduate. It’s not even about having a degree. I think, most importantly is to never stop learning, all your life, no matter whether you are following your initial path or change it adapting to your life, so your brain doesn’t go stale.”

Being an intelligent model certainly has its advantages including a brilliant career in the fashion industry, movie acting and several projects including “Russia’s Next Top Model” where Inna was invited on a role of a fashion expert mentoring the young models (apart from good advice she also brought a touch of class to the show) and her own “baby” she is working on as we speak. “It’s a kind of… salad… ” she says about her life, “I don’t follow a certain path.”

She’s been living in Paris for almost as long as she did in Russia. “Moscow is my mum and Paris is my dad”, she says. “I love Paris and its magic and charm. The beauty of Paris with its monochromatic streets draws you in. It’s very cultural, a little bit snobbish, very intellectual and doesn’t accept or open up to everyone. But for those who stay, Paris gives an air of freedom like nowhere else.”

I jump on one of my favourite subjects as soon as Paris is mentioned… The Parisiennes… Since Inna is often referred to as the “Russian Parisian” in the media, I simply have to ask if she could share any style secrets.

“French style is always about being a little bit imperfect that, in reality, takes a lot of thinking and planning.” she begins. “And, of course, colours. Living in Paris made me realise that fuchsia and blonde hair don’t go together, but the colour would look beautiful on a brunette. Everything about this country is very subtle and everything, its beauty and culture, takes time to understand.”

It was in Paris where Inna met her partner, film director Bruno Aveillan. In 2007 the couple welcomed their new born, Maceo. Becoming a mother was an emotional experience: “After I got Maceo I realised how strong I could be, I turned into this oak tree,” she smiles, eyes filled with love. “It felt as if I had a mighty power inside that gave meaning to everything I’ve done so far.”

And so after a whirlwind of projects and a successful career spanning over almost two decades, Inna is still unstoppable and full of fresh ideas.

She is currently working on a new TV project as a producer. “My team (the same one that made “The Artist”) is very supportive and believe in me and, although being a producer is something very new to me, I hope to make it work, to prove to everyone including myself that I can make a brilliant show from scratch.”

She also works with the Heart Fund, a charity that provides resources to disadvantaged children born with heart disease. The mission felt incredibly personal to her… “I thought of flying over to Haiti in December when the 14 children have their surgeries, but am not sure I am ready to enter the operating theatre yet. Thinking of it brings back memories I thought I no longer had. It touched me too deeply.” – she confesses.

And just like the little girl from the past, she still doesn’t make any plans for the future. “I know too well that plans never work. I hope I will have enough energy to complete the projects I am working on and that’s as far as I can go…”

 

Photo source: courtesy of Inna Zobova, Vogue Russia 1998, Burberry campaign, Vogue Germany

Autumn delights

In my books November was always a month of hibernation. It felt as if the world would slow down wrapped in a thick blanket of fogs. It was a month of rain, clouds and cold wind – none of which have never been appealing. And then one day, just an ordinary day, like many other ordinary days, I realised that there’s no point of getting depressed about the weather or lack of sunshine – November, just like any other months of the year, is the time to live and enjoy life as it comes.

All it takes is a few cosy layers that would keep you warm indoors and protect from the elements when the rain and wind seem unbearable, a huge scarf that makes you feel happy, a few scented candles that bring a feeling of warm comfort to your home, a cup of hot cocoa (or chocolate if you like) and a pile of good movies, books and magazines to bury your nose into when the world outside becomes dark and unwelcoming. And then you realise that November isn’t that bad after all and really is worth living, not existing through it.

Photo source: Elle US September 1999, ???, Pirelli Calendar 1995, Vogue Italia March 2000, Max Mara Fall 2004 campaign, Flikr, ???, Michael Aram Candles, Max Mara Weekend Fall 2012 campaign.

Stylish quote

“Fashion is more a way of living life with your roots, and finding your own true self, then having a logo to put on your back.”

Christian Lacroix

( source )

Photo source: Elle Italia October 2008

Natalia Vodianova in Elle Denmark 2000

Very young Natasha photographed for Elle Denmark in 2000. I loved the words Elle team used to describe the story: “Allure. Spirit. Elegance”. Such a perfect way to sum up everything French style is all about.

Photo source: Elle Denmark September 2000

Autumn statements: animal motif jumpers

I often wonder how a certain design turns into a must-have fashion item. While the whimsical reindeer sweaters only saw the light of day at Christmas, the growling Givenchy and, later, adorable Burberry motifs suddenly made us want to fall back into innocence and really embrace the trend. Perhaps it’s got something to do with the inner child or a stylish effort for not taking yourself too seriously…

I chose some of the sweetest ones today – their soft cuteness instantly puts a smile on your face and allows you to express love to a certain creature. Whatever reason you have for wearing one of those jumpers – embrace it: combine with a pencil skirt or smart trousers and structured coat or, just like Burberry did, peplum jacket for work, full skirt, lady-like bag, platform laced ankle boots and trench (again, very Burberry) for lunch  or jeans and duffle coat for weekends and walks in a country. Just don’t leave them in a draw until Christmas day.

Click to buy: 1. Portland fox intarsia merino wool sweater by Aubin & Wills (£125) + similar one by Peter Jensen, 2. Owl intarsia cashmere sweater by Burberry Prorsum (£895), 3. Horse angora mix jumper by Warehouse (£45), 4. French hen sweater by J.Crew (£80), 5. Swan jumper by Miss Selfridge (£39), 6. Doe embellished jumper by Monsoon (£49), Sequined puppy sweater by Muveil (£382.12), 7. Badger jumper by Dorothy Perkins (£30), 8. Fox print jumper by Marsha at Joules (£69.95), 9. Ivory poodle jumper by Dorothy Perkins (£30), 10. Sequined puppy sweater by Muveil (£382.12), 11. Scottie dog angora-blend jumper by Wallis (£20), 12. Horse intarsia cashmere wool sweater by Jaeger (£120) + similar ones by Joie, C Wonder and Wildfox

Not every sweater made it to the post, but you can find them on-line. The list includes squirrels, zebras, baby leopards, mummy leopard, blue birds, peacocks, bunny, rabbit, giraffe, elephant, owls (1 and 2), cats (1 – 2 – 3 – 4 - 5) and more dogs (1 – 2 – 3 – 4 – 5) Did I miss anything?

Photo source: Elle France August 2012

Ciate Pink Duo for Breast Cancer campaign

Ciaté is one of those brands that any woman can easily fall in love with. The first thing you notice about their nail polishes is the bottles – they are incredibly pretty (in a chic way), each finished with a black satin bow. Next you realise that the varnishes come in a rainbow of shades, so you definitely find the one that suits your personality. And then you learn the important details – the British brand was founded by Charlotte Knight, a celebrity nail artist who knows all the industry secrets when it comes to beautiful manicure; the polishes are free from toluene, formaldehyde and dibutyl-phthalate commonly known as the “toxic trio”.

It is the free-from part that made me try Ciaté a few years ago and I am still using their polishes and brilliant fast drying top-coat that I blogged about before.

This month Ciaté site turned pink to support the Breast Cancer Awareness campaign. In addition Charlotte also created a limited edition beautiful pink duo made of Pinkalilly (Pink Twilight) and Pinkaboo (Pink Jewel) for you to buy, so whenever a kit is sold, 20% will go to the Breakthrough Breast Cancer charity.

“The fear of breast cancer is something that heartbreakingly affects women globally. We are delighted to partner with the charity by infusing two of our signature shades with the powerful Breakthrough Breast Cancer pink. Our aim is to empower and inspire other women to support this tremendous cause by declaring their support with a beautiful nail polish.” said Charlotte in a press release.

You can order the duo on Ciaté official website or buy it in Selfridges where you will also be treated to a free Ciaté manicure at the Selfridges Pain Shop when you make your purchase.

In addition, you may also want to read my last year post on how to reduce the risk of the disease by making a few simple changes to your diet and lifestyle.

Photo source: Elle Russia March 2010, Ciate press release

Weekend shopping: special deals and beautiful finds

Once upon a time, when I still had my original blog, posts about special deals and finds were a part of it. Not too frequent to become a nuisance, they were a useful addition for those looking for bargains and treasures.

Since I did make a decision not to blog in weekends, I decided to utilise the Saturday space for this kind of posts in case you feel like treating yourself to something special or simply browsing while enjoying your morning coffee. Just as before I am not going to bombard you with them every Saturday – that really WOULD be a pain, but maybe once or twice a month depending on the response.

Let me know what you think of this idea – the feedback will be much appreciated.

* Wallis is currently running mid-season sale offering up to 50% off selected items. If you spend £30 or more you can also get free worldwide delivery with a code TREAT30. Do check their jewellery selection – they have a few very pretty things there (those rings are only £2).

* One of my old-time favourites, Anthropologie if offering 15% off until mid-night tonight. Enter BRAVO15 at the checkout. I noticed that they are now selling Chanel’s Little Black Jacket book – that certainly makes a special gift.

* You can also get an extra 40% off Tibi, Donna Karan, Missoni, Chloe, Stella McCartney, Jil Sander and more at TheOutnet when you check out – this is a huge saving, so don’t miss in case you’ve been lasting over one of those gorgeous things. The white selection really is stunning and worth having a look at – after all it is going to be the colour of Spring/Summer 2013.

* Get 10% off top brands this weekend at Harrods – perhaps, treat yourself to one of their exclusives like this Terry de Gunzburg perfume. Those bottles look like pieces of art and the fragrances include notes of amber, almond, gardenia, fig, rose, ylang ylang and vanilla.

* The Ready Set Sale is now on at Macy’s. You can also receive an additional 15% off with code DEALS.

* Although I have already tweeted about it a couple of days ago, I would like to mention that Bastyan sale is full of timeless gorgeous classics and you just have to have a look before they sell out.

* Matches is also giving you a free delivery worldwide until midnight on Sunday when you enter FREE08 at checkout. I love Matches – what about you? For treasures, remember to check their style steals.

* If you are after a beautiful bag or looking for gorgeous accessories, definitely stop by Monnier Freres. Right now they are giving 30% as a part of their Dream Days campaign. This Marc Jacobs bag can be yours for less than £300.

* Oasis and Dorothy Perkins are also having mid-season sales offering up to 70% their collections.

* Once you sorted the clothes, remember to visit my all time favourite Kurt Geiger Mid Season Sale – if you love your shoes or looking for perfect ankle boots, you will have a lot of fun choosing your next favourite pair. You get studs and bows, crystals and sequins, leather, suede and satin, wedges and pumps – anything and everything you can think of is there.

Have a wonderful weekend!

x

Photo source: Elle US August 1990

Passion for fashion: 5 looks under £200

A few days ago I heard about Passion for Fashion competition hosted by moneysupermarket and since then I spent hours and hours every evening putting together five looks each costing less than £200 in total.

When I was picking items for each look my main rule was combining the high-end pieces found on sales with high-street items that would complete the look without costing a fortune. This simple trick has always worked for me because, for some reason, a clever mix somehow made less expensive choices look more designer’y. Of course, treasure hunt would often take a bit longer, but fashion challenges are always so exciting to complete!

The results are below – please let me know what you think.

The office look began with the dress. I loved the shape so much that it clicked as a must-have. I then added a bit of energy with touches of oxblood by pairing the dress with a beautiful waterfall jacket and statement ring. The shoes were a sale’s find – you’ve got to have the right shoe to feel confident and beautiful.

Where to buy: Striped knitted wrap jacket by Warehouse (£80), Dogstooth printed dress by Dorothy Perkins (SALE! £22 was £38), Patent lock bag by Oasis (SALE! £20 was £38), Attack black leather pumps by Carvela at Kurt Geiger (SALE! £49 was £120), nude Class tights by Levante (£6.00), textured faux stone statement ring in Cherry/Gold by Forever 21 (£3.90), lipstick Made for Me in Natural by L’Oreal (£8.19)

The first date for a real modern princess who likes living on a budget. I’ve already shared my thoughts about dressing up for dates, but in case you’d rather not to read several posts, the brief is that you’ve got to look feminine, feel comfortable and, seriously, forget about jeans and trousers and wear a dress AND colour. I know we all believe in a power of LBD, but men do have an ability to appreciate beautiful colours and first date gives you a perfect opportunity to stand out and really really capture his attention (mind and heart).

The dress was chosen for its comfortable fit but very sensual look (nobody can resist silk). Then I topped it up with a classic blazer to keep my princess warm. The lace booties compliment lace details of the dress and the nail polish is to be used for your tootsies, so there’s a little touch of colour in those peep-toes.

The clutch, floral bracelet and fruity perfumes add a very romantic touch.

Where to buy: classic blazer by Mango (£34.99), floral applique silk dress by Vanessa Bruno Athe at theoutnet (SALE! £63.00 was £180), lace ankle boots  by Forever 21 (£27.75), all over pansy & lace envelope clutch by Accessorize (£32.00), flower finger cuff bracelet by Miso at Promod (£7.00), nail varnish in Shiny red by OPI (£11.00), lipstick Made for Me in Natural by L’Oreal (£8.19), perfume VIP for Women by Bjan at Cheapsmells (£11.95 was £30.70)

Oh, the good old outdoors! Perfect time to wear a bit of merino, the sweetest gloves and wrap yourself up in an adorable duffle coat. The bag and boots are found on sale.

Where to buy: Extra fine merino round neck sweater in off white by Uniqlo (£19.90), skinny jeans by H&M (£19.99), navy bonded duffle coat by Miss Selfridge (£65.00), colourblocked crochet scarf by Forever 21 (£8.90), Fox fingerless gloves by Forever 21 (£4.90), leather & canvas bucket bag by La Redoute (SALE! £22 was £55), Special white ankle boots by Carvela at Kurt Geiger (SALE! £59.00 was £160)

For a casual outfit I thought of a young Parisienne who loves classic Breton stripes, red lipstick and Isabel Marant. Since authentic Marant would never fit into £200, I just shopped around a little bit.

Where to buy: Breton striped top by Jaeger at House of Fraser (SALE! £48 was £80), skinny jeans by H&M (£19.99), herringbone coat by Mango (£39.00), Lock tote bag by Oasis (£40), dark red wedge high tops shoes by River Island (£40.00), iridescent heart charm bracelet in gold by Forever 21 (£3.15), Colour Riche Lipstick in True Red by L’Oreal (£8.69)

And now we are off to a party! Another Vanessa Bruno Athe dress that just begged me to be picked! Next stop was Zara where I spotted gorgeous ankle booties. The duo reminded me of Dolce&Gabbana baroque collection for Autumn/Winter 2012-13, so I did a little bit of browsing and returned, happy and pleased, with a pair of most perfect earrings, simple suede clutch and some neutral, but straight to the point, make-up. The hair would have to be up to open up the shoulders and show off the earrings – it’s so very sensual and playful.

Where to buy: Love & Beauty Essential Mascara (SALE! £1.99 was £3.15) + High Shine Lip Gloss (£1.65) by Forever 21 (£2.64), Strapless grosgrain satin dress by Vanessa Bruno Athe at theoutnet(SALE! £87.50 was £250), studded ankle boots by Zara (£89.99), Cut out teadrop earrings by Forever 21 (£5.65), Leather quilted & studded purse by ASOS (SALE! £12.00 was £15.00)

I must admit, I haven’t had this much fun for a long time. Playing with outfits reminded me how much I enjoy creating fantasies of my own, so I have a feeling I am going to make it a frequent feature on the blog from now on.

Photo source (main): Elle Russia November 2010

Stylish quote

“Anyone, anyone, anyone can be wildly attractive. Fitness, grooming and an open heart can do way more than any designer dress.”

Rick Owens

Photo source: Elle France 2004

Stylish quote

“Perfection is never achieved, so you need

to go on working.”

Azzedine Alaia

 

Photo source: Gisele Bundchen wearing Alaia in Elle US January 2003

Autumn transition pieces: white sweater

Transition pieces. They are like best friends and comforts blankets all-in-ones. Reliable wardrobe companions that take you from one season to another in style and comfort.

Take the white cable-knit sweater. It’s not just a classic piece -  this life-saver goes with practically anything. You can wear it with jeans and Converses, then swap the trainers for kitten heels and jeans – for cigarette trousers for a smarter look.

Or wear your softy with a skirt creating at least three different outfits – wave “Good bye” to summer by pairing the sweater with a long silk floaty skirt or palazzo trousers, combine with a pencil skirt and classic pumps for work, leather or full skirt and booties for a coffee date. Once those options are tried and tested, practice the all-white trend that will be one of the hits in Autumn/Winter 2012/13 or cocoon in wide wool trousers, oversized coat and an optional chunky scarf.

Photo source: Vogue Paris November 2011, L’Officiel Singapore March 2012, Elle UK August 2012

Stylish quote

"Style is wearing an evening dress to McDonalds, wearing heels to play football. It is personality, confidence and seduction."

John Galliano

Photo source: Dior Couture in Elle Russia December 2010

Forgotten supermodel: Valeria Mazza

Although she is still well-known in America, on this side of the Atlantic many seem to have forgotten about Valeria Mazza, the Argentinian model who walked down the catwalk together with Linda, Naomi, Claudia and Cindy, was one of the original Versace girls, graced covers of fashion magazines, starred in campaigns of the biggest fashion houses and was Valentino’s muse.

The blue-eyed girl was born in 1972, in Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina. When she was 14, a friend of the family helped Valeria get her first modelling job. The very first fashion show took place in Paraná, her home city.

After finishing high school Valeria moved to Buenos Aires to study Occupational Therapy. Since she was a teen, the girl made it her mission to help people with disabilities, so her choice of study course didn’t surprise anyone.

While studying Valeria and working as a volunteer, she continued modelling. Her first job was for Caro Cuore, a Buenos Aires-based company.

In 1992 Valeria moved to the States, but spent a lot of time travelling to Milan and Paris where she worked for Armani, Valentino, Dolce&Gabbana, Dior, Versace, Ralph Lauren and Ferre.

In 1995 Valeria was discovered by Paul Marciano and became a new face of Guess.

More campaigns followed… Versace, Donna Karan, Caractere, Escada, Halston and Chanel – a supermodel-worthy list, indeed.

No matter how busy she was, Valeria never stopped helping Special Olympics organisation and in 1993 was appointed its international Ambassador.

In 1996 the Sunday Times and El Mundo papers conducted a survey among their readers in order to select the one hundred 20th century most important women. There were only two models in the final list: Valeria Mazza and Claudia Schiffer.

In the same year she appeared on a cover of Sports Illustrated alongside Tyra Banks and continued building her impressive modelling portfolio working for Elle, Vogue, Cosmopolitan and Glamour as well as many Latin American glossies.

In 1998 Valeria Mazza met her future husband, Alejandro Gravier. They married on 9 May and welcomed their first new born, Balthazar, in 1999. Since then Valeria gave birth to three more beutiful children, two boys, Tiziano and Benicio and a girl, Taina.

Soon after the wedding Valeria and her husband as she were honoured with an invitation to the Vatican. The model attended a ceremony on the occasion of the first year of Mother Teresa of Calcutta’s death. Valeria and her husband met John Paul II during this ceremony. She then became the first model that the Pope received officially. In 2006 Valeria and her family travelled back to Vatican for the second visit. On this occasion, the Pope Benedict XVI received her and her family in a private audience.

Her family life didn’t stop Valeria from modelling. She appeared in more than 350 magazine covers worldwide, starred in more than 30 TV ads of Lux, San Pellegrino, Villavicencio, Pepsi and Falabella, among others. She also made a few TV appearances including MTV Latin America, Domenica In, San Remo’s Festival, Scommettiamo Che? and Come Sorelle in Italy and Esta noche invito yo, her own show in Latin America.

In addition to modelling Valeria developed her own make up line, VM Beauty, which includes perfumes, lotions and make up and became a columnist for Viva magazine.

In 2007 she flew to Milan to take part in a fashion show against anorexia organised by National Chamber of Fashion. After the show 30 models including Valeria Mazza received the “Giusto Equilibrio” (Exact Balance) award, because she is considered a reference of beauty and health in the fashion world.

Photo source: ?, Versace Atelier Spring/Summer 1996 campaign, Giorgio Grati 1996 campaign, Guess 1996 campaign, Halston campaign, Versace 1996 campaign, Escada Sport campaign, Cosmopolitan UK July 2000, Elle Mexico June 2010

Reference: valeriamazza.com.ar