{style inspiration | how to : mermaid pearl hairpins at chanel}

. . . when the chanel spring 2012 ready-to-wear collection graced the runways of paris, there was a collective gasp at the magic underwater kingdom created by karl lagerfeld -- there was lightness and seashells, but most astonishingly lovely, were the iridescent pearls glistening from chignons and following the curvatures of necks and down plunging backs . . .



. . . and after happening upon a few beautiful backstage photos of the show recently, a few golden hairpins laying about on the dressing table, and some pretty pearl beads were all the inspiration necessary . . .

[how-to instructions below] x
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{colour inspiration | spring things : perfect pink}

. . . astonishingly, very nearly at the month of march, two months of the new year passed already, and already, windows have been open to the late-winter air that is now, nearly imperceptibly, tinged with the promise of blossoming magnolia trees and longer, sun-drenched days ahead, and so, for today, it's away with wintry things, soft flushed cheeks, and a dash of perfect pink across the lips . . .



[images: tayane leão by j.r. duran for vogue brazil january 2012 / stylist: giovanni frasson / hair & makeup: max weber via studded hearts /// photography by a girl, a style via my girly side]

{valentine's inspiration | pure romance : [a little] naughty & nice}

. . . and how it is thursday already is pure madness, but happily, that means valentine's day is next week, and so, chocolate truffles and champagne, baies and gardénia and satin, silk, and chiffon, in the spirit of pure romance . . .

{p.s.} another look below x

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{take me away № 10 | holiday etiquette : part two}

Whether you are traveling or will remain at home this Christmas, it is always thoughtful to think of those whose services you require on a regular basis, for a well-mannered traveler is always grateful for good service.



Beyond a spoken thank you, tipping is essential in many cases, and for services above and beyond, a handwritten thank you note is always an elegant and appreciative touch.



As for your regular go-to services at home, it is a wonderful gesture to acknowledge their continuous service during the holidays . . .

[as a follow-up to {take me away № 08 | holiday etiquette}, in this article, sarah discusses the topic of tipping while traveling and provides a useful reference guide]

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Red Lipstick on Madison Ave

This gorgeous woman looks perfectly elegant in her trench coat, paired with a set of pearls, and a touch of red lipstick. Her wonderful smile puts the finishing touch on this chic look.