A Tucked Away Pleasure: Parazit

Hidden down the busy street of Karlova right off Old Town square sits Czech design shop Parazit.

Parazit is one of the best shops in Prague to buy Czech designed goods and also happens to sell them at a reasonable mark up that caters more to the Czech wallet than the foreign one.  It’s a small, cramped space filled to the brim with both established and emerging design talent.

The store, which brings in new products every month sells  its designers, which for Prague, is a rarity.  “I have asymmetrical tunics there,” says Czech womenswear designer Zuzana Vesela, “and I am constantly needing to make new ones to sell to the shop. They can’t keep them in stock.” Zuzana Vesela isn’t alone, Eva, the owner of Parazit tells me besides Zuzana Vesela her books and porcelain pieces are constantly being purchased by tourists; mainly from Asia.

A treasure trove of original Czech fashion

There are pieces at the store that are hard to find outside of well-know Etsy-look-a-like, Fler.cz, but Eva does her best to make sure those great artists are stocked. There are over 100 Czech and Slovak designers and students who are here, many of them are exclusive to Parazit and quite a few have been with her since the beginning.

With Christmas around the corner we suggest you skip Old Town Square and its wash of cheap goods and head straight for Parazit instead.

 

Porcelain brooches that have been hand painted with a unique design. Eva tells me they are a favourite among Asian customers.

Animal brooches ready to spice up any winter jacket

A bit bric-a-brac in feeling complete with the gold mine of items you can find.

Journals for keeping track of your many adventures.

Plastic flower statement rings!

 

 

The Woman Behind the Fashion Truck

 

Words: Madeline Chestnut

Photos: The Fashion Truck Prague Facebook page

Heather Horton is bringing a new idea and approach to the ever growing world of Czech fashion.

The Fashion Truck, was born and inspired by a recent trip to Miami, Florida where she saw an entire street lined with trucks moonlighting as mobile boutiques.

Upon moving to Prague, Heather travelled to Switzerland using most of her savings to purchase a vintage Mercedes fire truck and make the mobile boutique a reality. As are most Kafkaesque stories, the truck repeatedly broke down before making it out of the city limits of Geneva and it was then that the truck in question was towed back to Prague.

After what we can only assume would have been a lot of terse words said to the Mercedes, Heather has managed to create a car that not only works, but is a true boutique on wheels. There are hard wood floors, funky wallpaper, curtains, a fitting room and believe it or not, you can actually stand in the truck and browse the selection of clothing available on hangers.

The truck opened its back doors for business in June at the Náplavka market and Heather is hoping to find a permanent spot there every week where you can find, “conservative clothing with a quirk.” Price points for her imported and hand-made garments are 500czk for shirts to 1000 czk for jackets and dresses.

The future goal for The Fashion Truck Prague is to have a home base in Prague, while continuing to travel to neighbouring European cities once a month. Eventually, Heather hopes to open a standing boutique in the city centre while maintain the life of the truck on the side.

You can catch The Fashion Truck Prague August 18-19 at the Pilsen Fashion Days market in Pilsen, Czech Republic. Follow her on Facebook and check out her online store for more information.

A Day in Prague 2

Words: Madeline Chestnut

Filled with expats and young professionals, Prague 2 is worthy of a stop on your Czech adventures. As the yuppie epicentre, you will find worldly people, most of whom speak English.

Shop til’ you drop

If you are in Prague it is an absolute must to shop. Treat yourself, you deserve it! Browse through a short selection of my favorite shops.

NILA– A Little Bit of This, a Little Bit of That

NILA is an eclectic boutique that sells a little bit of everything. The store is located in a charming area lined with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants and is away from the hustle and bustle of the main streets. As you walk in the door, you are greeted by an infectious boho vibe with walls full of earth-toned clothes, handmade wooden shoes, home goods, and beauty products. This store is all things BOHO, eclectic and trendy. Shop women’s, men’s, and children’s clothes.

Address:  Korunní 806/91, 130 00 Praha 2

Hours: Mon-Fri: 10:00 – 19:30, Saturday: 9:00 – 15:00

Photo credit: Jane Bond Facebook page

Jane Bond Special– Get Ready for the Sock Hop

Looking for 50’s inspired dresses, full skirts, and A-line cuts? Jane Bond is your place! Have fun thumbing through racks of dresses, both made by Jane Bond and other labels. This small store is a breath of fresh air and a fun, historical exploration in fashion history.

Address: Slezska 48, Prague 2

Hours: Mon-Fri: 10:00 am – 19:00 pm, Sat: 12:00 pm – 18:00 pm

Photo Credit: Papelote Facebook page

Papelote– Not your everyday paper store. 

This paper store is tucked away on a quiet street, right on the edge on Prague 1, but no where near the crazy tourists areas. Papelote is a local Czech paper store stocking only Czech artists. Choose between post cards, hand-bound journals, pencil bags, little works of printed art, and all other kinds of paper goods. This store may be  small, but one could get lost for hours in there perusing through delicate goods.

Address: Vojtěšská 9, Prague 1, 110 00

Hours: Monday-Friday 11:00–19:00, Saturday 12:00–18:00

Lunch time!

Once you have worn your wallets out a bit,  meander your way to Americká street for some good eats.

Photo Credit: Zazibar Bistro Facebook page

Zanzibar Bistro is the perfect place to sit down and have a nice lunch. Every day they have a unique lunch menu with two options ranging around 120Kč. Located in a quaint square with a central fountain and children playing, sit out on their lovely patio and enjoy a grilled veggie plate with a crisp white wine or beer. Walk around after lunch for another glass of wine at one of the surrounding wine bars. 

Address: Americká 15 Prague 2

Hours: Mon-Thu: 8:00 – 23:00, Fri: 8:00 – 00:00, Sat: 10:00- 00:00, Sun: 10:00 – 23:00

Get a much needed mid-day sugar boost

Every one has their guilty pleasures, whether it be pastries, caramel lattes, or ice cream; we all have them, so why ignore them? Here are a few places to fulfil you sugar addiction.

Photo Credit: Marthy’s Kitchen Facebook page

Marthy’s Kitchen

Inspired by the French countryside, Marthy’s Kitchen is a charming, homey little cafe and one that has won rave reviews on TripAdvisor as well. Indulge with a slice of cheese cake or a pastry and get a much needed afternoon espresso or look through their lunch menu; you know, in case you are still hungry after Zanzibar. If you find yourself that way during dinner time, stop in for a full dinner menu.

Address: Vinohrady, 120 00 Prague 2

Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:00- 22:00, Saturday-Sunday: 9:00- 22:00 

Photo Credits: Vanille Facebook page

Vanille

For your one stop ice cream shop, make sure to hit up Vanille. Vanille is the key to all of your sweet tooth needs. With indoor and outdoor seating, enjoy a hefty 20Kč ice cream either there or walk and sit in the nearby park in front of the Namesti Miru cathedral.

Address: Náměstí Míru 13, Prague 2

Hours: Mon-Fri: 7:00 – 20:00, Sat: 9:00 – 20:00, Sun: 10:00 – 20:00

Dinner is served

While on the topic of food, here are our dinner suggestions.

Photo Credit: Becca Leite 

Pizzeria Grosseto

When your afternoon is done and you are ready to sit down for dinner, try Grosseto. The pizza menu is unreal and cooked to crispy perfection, but if pizza isn’t your thing there is plenty more to choose from. Make sure to sit on the patio to the side of the restaurant. There is an outside bar, and two layers of seating.

Address: Francouzská 79/2, 120 00 Praha 2-Vinohrady

Hours: Mon – Sun: 11:30 – 23:00

Photo Credit: Sapori Facebook page

Sapori

For a taste of Italy in Prague, Sapori is your stop. With a fine menu of meats, fish, salad, and savoury pastas, enjoy dinner inside atop white table cloths or on the patio. Of course, the white table cloths can only mean one thing- expensive. If you are budget dining, this might not be the place for you.

Address:  Americká 875/20, 120 00 Praha 2-Vinohrady

Hours: Mon-Sat 11:00-23:00

Finally a Teenager: 13 Years of Fashion with Designer Kateřina Geislerová

WORDS: MADELINE CHESNUT

In celebration of 13 years of fashion, runway shows, and collections, Czech designer Kateřina Geislerová had a little celebration to show off her work, where she has come from and where she is going. I popped down to Showroom V Kotcích to take a look. I was impressed and inspired by some  looks, while others were an instant flip through on the rack. While I enjoyed comparing the collections through the ages, I almost enjoyed the stories behind her journey as a designer a bit more.

Kateřina left home when she was 18 for schooling as an interior designer. Her passion for line, shape, color, and textiles was obvious, but her route was not. Down the line a professor saw the potential in Kateřina’s work and steered her away from interior design and into the world of fashion, thinking that it would be a much better fit. This inspiring professor actually purchased Kateřina’s first collection that she made as a designer (insert “awwww” comment). And the rest is history as they say… sorry for the basic girl phrase, but it was fitting.

So, after 13 years, what can be said about the evolution of Kateřina’s work as a designer? A few thing are for sure; she loves her structure, she loves obscure lines, and most evident: she is consistently inspired by menswear.

 

This skirt, while obviously not super wearable was a fun tip into the mind of Kateřina because this was one of her early exploration in flirting the with ideas of recreating menswear. Made from men’s trousers, I’m not sure how this would hit the bum in the most flattering way, but still- supper interesting thought.

And another one. More men’s wear is shown with this long vest. While asking about the Czech market, Kateřina’s publicist explained to me that this piece was very popular with Czech woman because of their sense to wear modest, not, “look at me” clothing.

Yay we finally have some pattern, folks! While it was few and far between, I will give your eyes some much needed stimulation with a rare splash of pattern and color, but don’t get used to it. It is sure to say that throughout her 13 years, Kateřina will almost always stick with solids.

When asked what words described Kateřina’s inspiration and style, her kind publicist instantly replied with the words, “femininity and structure.” It is clear that Kateřina’s training and eye for interior design both play a role in the construction of her garments.

I was a bit confused by the comment about femininity and accentuating the female physique after seeing a few too many less-than-flattering pieces that would give a shapeless, lumpy figure to even the slimmest of toothpicks.

So, what is on the table for year 14? Maybe pink silk and burnt orange? Who really knows, but lets hope that Kateřina Geislerová continues with feminine, flattering lines, and leaves the bags at home.

Where to Drink with the Fashionable Prague Society: Top 10 cocktail bars

We knew we needed to update the list of Prague’s most fashionable cocktail bars, but we also knew that the Top 5 wouldn’t cut it!  Of course, we have the old favourites with hockey players and roof top views, but we’ve added a few more speakeasy style bars, bars that take cash only and ones that have been winning international awards. So, grab some friends, dress to impress and enjoy the latest that the cocktail scene in Prague has to offer.

Cash Only Bar – where low lights, cash only and fantastic cocktails combine. Photo Credit: Cash Only Bar Facebook Page

Cash Only Bar– The almost twin sister bar to the notorious “Hemingway’s”

The sister bar to Hemingway’s, Cash Only Bar maintains the same level of class and sophistication – and most importantly mixology-  but it’s a much more relaxed place where you can kick your shoes off. When Hemingway’s is full to the brim or when you want a fully non-smoking bar, Cash Only is the next best thing. Enjoy live music and bar snacks as you sip on mixology magic and are waited on by bartenders who have memorised the cocktail dictionary and are eager to whip up anything that you can imagine.  Prices are similar to Hemingway’s so if you go in thinking this might be a cheap joint I’m afraid you’ll be disappointed. More importantly the bar is, as it’s name would say, is cash only.

L’Fleur Cocktail Bar Photo Credit: George Nemec from L’Fleur Bar Facebook Page

L’Fleur Bar – A Menu To Get Lost In

L’ Fleur is located at the bottom of the heaving party street Dlouha and is located more or less next to Tretter’s Bar (a favourite place to watch celebs and hockey players). The updated space, which has been everything from a retail store front to multiple failed bars seems to have found a winner with furnished leather tufted booths and a set up that encourages intimate conversation. Choosing a drink that suits your fancy isn’t a problem, as their menu is a lengthy 27 pages long. If they don’t have what you are looking for one of their bartenders is sure to know it.If the alcohol gods created it, L’Fluer probably has it.

Public Interest where the fashionable crowd comes for relaxed cocktails  / Photo Credit: Public Interest Facebook Page

Public Interest– For counter-culture cocktails

Public Interest, with its grungy, industrial, and counter-culture vibe draws artists, writers, and other creatives; mainly those that work in the fashion and pr industry. The place is incredibly small and the music is pretty terribly – especially for a place that oozes cool and makes some pretty fine cocktails. It’s non-smoking however and if you can make a reservation and get a seat, the bar is absolutely worth a trip. Enjoy cocktails from 170-350 Kč.

A signature cocktail from Prague 7’s Elbow Room. Photo Credit: Elbow Room Facebook Page

Elbow Room – Prohibition Never Felt So  Good

If you can manage to talk yourself , or friends, to heading over the bridge you’ll encounter this prohibition themed bar. A ubiquitous staple in cities like London and Paris, Elbow Room is making a name for itself under the glow of green lights. Order a “lime in the coconut” and shake it all up in Letna’s hottest new bar, trending as #1 on foursquare since their opening in January. A quote from their “classics” menu pretty much sums it up: “Love makes the world go round? Not at all. Whisky makes it go round twice as fast.”

Prolog Exceptional Cocktail Bar – Posh cocktails in Prague 5. Photo Credit: Prolog Exceptional Cocktail Bar Website

Prolog: The Exceptional Cocktail Bar– The glitzy cocktail bar you’ve been dreaming of

Prolog bar is basically a synonym for posh, though located across from the Andel metro station may seem otherwise. With twinkling lights, leather tufted bar stools and gold accents, this bar looks more at home in Mayfair than in Prague, but we love it all the same. Enjoy the low banter of a bar setting while sipping on one of their 21 signature cocktails- I plan to try every single one of them before my dying day. If you are feeling a bit risqué, try one of their seven deadly sins cocktail: Wrath, Greed, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Sloth or Pride. The cocktails are truly a craft, with pristine execution and dainty garnishes atop. Prices ranging from 85Kč to 395 Kč.

Anonymous Bar, where drinking is an adventure. Photo Credit: Anonymous Facebook Page

Anonymous Bar– “Give a man a mask, and he will show you his true face”- Guy Fox

Take an adventure to the unknown and unlock the secretes behind Guy Fox through undisclosed menus and hidden messages. In fact, reading the menus becomes an adventure in itself from black light only menus, menus that require a magnifying glass and randomly a View-Master menu that unlocks the secret ingredients.The drinks are extravagant and come staged in ways that you can’t imagine: in grenades, in circus themed toys, or an IV drip bag. Making a reservation is crucial, as this is something that everyone wants to experience.

Cloud 9 Sky Bar & Lounge- a view from the top Photo Credit: Cloud 9 Sky Bar & Lounge Official Facebook Page

Cloud 9 Sky Bar & Lounge- Drinking under the Stars

Located at the top of the Hilton Hotel, Cloud 9 offers rooftop views, plush sofas, and a DJ spinning tracks long into the night- it’s the perfect starting point before heading into town. Order a refreshing Mojito on the terrace, overlooking a drop dead view, while being surrounded by men sporting the latest fashion trends, waxing poetically into a woman’s ear. While it may be a bit of a trek away from the city centre, this chic rooftop bar is worth it. Signature Cocktails are 170CZK while others range from 120-200CZK respectively.

Tretter’s Bar – where things never change. Photo Credit: Tretter’s Bar Facebook Page

Tretter’s Bar – Cajole with hockey players, celebs and wanna’be fashion models

It’s the swank hang out for high-worth individuals and professional sports players. Don’t be surprised to see Czech celebs and your favourite Czech hockey players at this bar, smoking cigars and drinking cocktails in the off season. The bar staff is well versed in cocktails which means if you want it, and it’s obscure, they can probably make it. Prices are similar to cloud 9, but with an ambience based around Paris in the thirties rather than a modern, skyline view.

Black Angel’s Bar – the poshest speakeasy outside of the 1920s. Photo Credit: Black Angle’s Bar Facebook Page

Black Angel’s Bar-  Speakeasy in Old Town

Slip back to a time when cocktails were served in their correct glasses with hand-made ice cubes and bartenders had more than just charming good looks. Named one of the Best 50 Bars in the World by the Sunday Times, it is still a favourite for the local crowd- though tourists have caught on. During the weekend there is a piano player and singer who serenade the Gatsbyesque crowd with her sultry voice and his bygone era tunes. Everything about Black Angel’s- the chandeliers, the tables, the menus are chic.  It looks pretentious, but with prices that are affordable for all, it’s one of the best deals in the city.

Bugy’s Bar – the original fashionable crowd hangout Photo Credit: Bugy’s Bar Facebook Page

Bugy’s Bar – An American-Style Cocktail Bar with Czech Flare

When the fashion events end, this is where the editors and beautiful people go. Models, editors of fashion magazines, and celebrities all venture to this small space to drink fanciful cocktails and sip foreign wine. It’s the bar that introduced the mojito to the Czech public and was ranked as one of the best cocktail bars by Newsweek International. Cocktailicious (delicious cocktails made by Bugsy’s) prices start at around 135CZK for short drinks, Sake Cocktails around 160-190CZK.

How to Wear SS16 By Czech Designers

WORDS: Madeline Chesnut

More often than not, the looks coming down the runway, strapped onto size zero little nothings, can be extremely daunting. I often find myself thinking, “who the hell would actually wear that,” or “how would this look transition from the runway to real-life?” Designer’s experimentation can be out there and hard to imagine, but you have to think of these looks as art and self expression- though most of them probably wouldn’t sell in a store. After weeding out the “interesting” designs, I have pulled a handful of my favourite looks from the SS16 Mercedes-Benz Prague Fashion Week shows in the determination to show you that some looks are a lot more achievable than one may think. With a few accessories, one’s imagination can start to rationalise Czech designers and gain the confidence to add a runway look to their wardrobe. Set aside your plain white T and jeans and try something new!

The first look that grabbed my attention was this rose coloured Odivi maxi dress. I was inspired by the ease that this look has- the “I’m not trying too hard” look, which in reality, took a few hours of readjusting and getting the hair and the makeup just right. Beside that fact, this look could be easily accomplished and would be perfect for a day running around the city, shopping or grabbing coffee. An Olivia Burton watch (one of my personal favourites) would be perfect paired with a slouchy Chloé bag and stylish Adidas trainers.

Another casual city look that could transition well into every day life is this long cardigan by Monika Drapalova. Perfect for throwing over a basic outfit on a day where you want to hide a bit. Wear with Ancient Greek Sandals, Mui Mui shades, and a Saint Laurent bucket bag to run errands in a comfortable, yet fashionable manner.

Jakub Polanka helps you pull off the market perusing weekender look with a funky wrap jacket full of colour,  and a striped pattern; an essence of exploration. Pair with Carvel trainers, and an Aspinal of London cuff to add colour and personality. Don’t forget a Tory Burch back pack to tote around a fresh loaf of bread from the farmer’s market or handmade jewellery from an art festival.

How adorable is this classic, 50’s housewife dress? Finish off the look with a blush Rebecca Minkoff bag, tan brogues by Dune London and an Olivia Burton watch- I told you she is my favourite.

Did someone say GNO? For those nights when you want to leave your worries behind and get lost in cocktails, good conversation, and bae-watching, make sure to doll yourself up in something short, something black, and something with sass. This ensemble by Michal Kovacik, along with Aquazzura stilettos,  Kendra Scott earrings, and a Valentino clutch is the recipe for a good night.

Whether you have a hot date or a date with yourself to some extravagant event, this dress by Zuzana Kubickova is sure to be a jaw dropper. This beautifully detailed tea length dress, paired with classic Mary Jane Jimmy Choo’s, a Brunello Cucinelli statement necklace, and an Alexander McQueen clutch is an achievable run way look.

It’s summer time in the city, so when you are ready to chill out and relax, make sure to slip into a Jakub Polanka tunic, Miu Miu shades, Funky Espadrilles by Steve Madden, and a fedora by Heidi Klein- because no one likes a burnt hair part.

And when you are dreaming of pool days and sun tans, Katerina Geislerova gives us the look. Be playful as you lounge by the pool in a a fedora by Sara Designs, bright Linda Farrow sunnies, and a Hawaii inspired tote by Kate Spade New York- too cute to take in.

 

NILA: A little bit of this, a little bit of that

WORDS: Madeline Chesnut

Tucked away at Korunní 91 in Prague 2, NILA is an eclectic boutique that sells a little bit of everything. The store is located in a charming area that is away from the hustle and bustle of the main streets and is lined with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. As you walk in the door, you are greeted by an earthy vibe with walls full of earth toned clothes, handmade wooden shoes, home goods, and beauty products. This store is all things BOHO, eclectic, and trendy.

Women’s clothing dominates the clothing selection, specifically dresses and blouses. With the boho look comes lots of linen, lots of slouchy clothing, a few bulky blanket sweaters, and garments that aren’t too fussy to wear. Dresses and blouses fell under a price point between 990 Kč for basic T’s on to 5000 Kč for other items.

NILA focused on all things black and white with stripes all over.. oh and loads of denim. But only denim shirts, no pants. hmm. They had very little pattern play, unless you were looking at dishes or throw pillows.

And on the the very limited men’s section featuring more denim, and black and white stripes. You and your boyfriend can buy matching outfits.

They were loving these wooden shoes, and they are available in almost every color of the rainbow. The hand-made, wooden sandals are very harmonious with their clothing collection and could probably be paired with any outfit that you find on the rack. They looked pretty comfortable and I’m feeling the granola vibes.

These neutral booties were very well made, and super cute. Would be perfect paired with jeans and a chunky sweater for fall. And once again- you and your boyfriend/ girlfriend can twin it up in your matching pairs.

Once again, NILA gives you the tools for constructing the ideal BOHO outfits with a felt fedora hat, detailed with a leather band. If this doesn’t scream BOHO, I don’t know what does. These were the crowed favorite, as I watched many woman at the store opening fawn over them and check themselves out in the mirror while sporting the look. Prices range from 2490 Kč to 3990 Kč and are available in men’s and women’s sizes.

The dishes were probably my favorite item in the store, which is probably a bias remark as I am a little obsessive compulsive when it comes to dishes. This was where the pattern, color, and personality of the store was emphasis. Painted pottery always draws me in, and NILA’s was at a pretty good price point between 350- 1500 Kč.

These cups were too funny, and I would love to see the look on my guests faces as I ask them to play pin the panties on the naked lady while drinking a cup of tea. At 1590 Kč a set, they are sure to add a conversation starter to a party.

I appreciate that NILA stocked their store with a little bit of everything. This is a perfect place to find dishes for a summer party, birthday gifts, a summer outfit, beauty products, chunky gold jewelry, journals, shoes…. and on and on and on.

Zdenka Imreczeova: Where Basics Are Anything But Boring

WORDS: Madeline Chesnut

Yesterday I had the pleasure of attending the opening for Czech designer Zdenka Imareczeova’s new collection. Within minutes of walking through the door to her showroom, I wanted to buy almost everything on the rack. Tank tops, blouses, dresses, skirts, and other items lined the walls and I didn’t know where to start. After playing dress up for about an hour, here are the looks that I can’t stop thinking about.

The basics

 The collection was comprised of great basics that could be worn every day, dressed up or dressed down. Each blouse had an interesting detail, like a tie in the back or ties on the side, and most were made of a jersey knit blend that felt amazingly soft to the touch (personally I loved the micro modal blend). Zdenka said that inspiration for some of the collection- the blouses in general- came from elements seen in menswear, much of which you could see in the structure of the blouses and dresses.

The dresses, oh the dresses.

The updated LBD you’ve been waiting for.

We can all agree that a black dress is a necessary component to every wardrobe, and this spin of a classic cut with buttons down the front, tailored sleeves, a tie around the waist, and paneling in the front is a chic number. Wear it with flats while grabbing an afternoon coffee, or pair it with heels to meet friends for cocktails.

The mixture of a soft color with a traditional shirt dress silhouette and full skirt is really working for these two dresses. Contrived of a light cotton blend, both of which have a draw string tie at the waist, these dresses would be comfortable and breathable for walking running around on a hot summer day.

This great number in linen can be worn untied for a casual, oversized look, or synched at the waist with a matching tie. In addition to the linen dress there were multiple styles of shirts and blouses, as well as a very chic circle skirt with an elastic band an ideal situation on this inevitable “fat” days.

Tickled Pink

Adding a burst of colour to a monochromatic collection for Spring/Summer 2016

The pink wall; the best wall. It seems very fitting that I am about to rave about the pink wall on National Pink Day. Yes, it is National Pink Day, and yes, it is a real thing.While I love a good basic, the colour pink is probably the highest on my list and this rose shade is really working for me. These garments were a soft, jersey blend and had fabulous pleated detailing. I really enjoyed discovering how Zdenka played with the idea of pleating throughout the collection. The pleats give another level of texture and interest.

I wanted to take this jersey knit cardigan home is ways that I can’t explain. The long ties in the front could be left hanging, for an elongated effect, or tied in different ways. Throwing this over a pair of jeans or slacks is sure to spruce up any outfit and make a colour statement.

The verdict? After not visiting Imreczeova and her collections for quite sometime it is nice to see her use more colours and more feminine, non oversized silhouettes. Impressed is an understatement! Thank you Zdenka Imreczeova for an impressive new collection and we very much look forward to recommending your garments and your studio to all who ask.

LEM’s “Monochromatic”

WORDS: Madeline Chesnut

Czech designer by the name of Lucie Erban Mares (fashion label LEM) is presenting a little something different to the fashion world with her 2016 collection called “Monochromatic”. The collection has an assortment of different garments from sleeveless silk blouses to funky polyester coats.

“Characteristic of the new collection is layering of silhouettes on a monochromatic color scale. The garments will be elegant and simple, the choice of color only underpinning the readability and contrast of the overall design.” -LEM

The inspiration for her collection comes mainly from the reflections and colors that mirrors give off. The monochromatic color waves are derived from photographing the mirror’s surface and picking out shades of white, gray, and black. A mixture of different hues gives off the impression of movement, shape, and dimension. The idea of mimicking mirroring is not a new concept for LEM, as it was seen in her previous collection.

Once the images of mirrors are taken, Lucia Erban Mares then prints the images onto fabric. The use of snaps was seen repeatedly, and the garments could be worn and morphed in different ways. The jackets above and below are made with a polyester exterior and a cotton blend interior for a comfortable fit.

LEM’s experimentation with shape and angle was extremely interesting to explore. This jacket lays in such a different way, and the symmetry and color variation is intriguing. That snaps up the front make for an easy fit.

LEM’s silk blouses were my favorite pieces in the collection. They have great line play, a soft texture, and are beautifully tailored. LEM quotes that, “Inspiration came from a mirror interspace in which elementary designs were reflected, multiplied and deformed.”

The sleeveless silk tops were the highlight of the blouses. This tuxedo inspired blouse has clean lines, a cropped back, and snaps that allow the owner to choose how they want to wear it.

LEM repeats the idea of mirroring with folds over the center axis and layering of fabric. This blouse is extremely versatile and would be a perfect staple item in any closet.

Alongside the blouses was an array of coats. This grey coat, made from a blend of cotton and spandex is reversible and doubles as a solid black coat (seen below). The labeling down the back is a special touch and reads “LEM”. The matching tie at the waist is the perfect finishing touch to emphasis the waist and pull the look together.

Overall, “Monochromatic” is a beautiful collection with the perfect balance of simplicity, elegance, and the perfect touch of edginess.

What To Wear For Wedding Season

WORDS: Madeline Chesnut

Tis the season for pastel colours and talks of love. As the summer days roll by, your mail boxes are probably filling with wedding invitations. Whether you are the bride, a bridesmaid, or an attending guest, wedding season proposes wardrobe challenges for all who are involved in the special day, and figuring out what to wear can sometimes be a burden. To lift some of the burden off of your sun-kissed shoulders, I have created vignettes for what to wear to a summer wedding.

The Bride

The bride is the star of the show on her wedding day and choosing the perfect wedding dress is in the running for the most important wardrobe decision that a woman will ever make.

A traditional white dress with clean lines will always be in style as it is feminine, polished, and looks beautiful coming down the aisle. This two pieced dress by Czech designer Zuzana Veselá is a great option for practical brides because it has a detachable skirt. The silhouette looks flawless together, but can easily be transformed with a shorter skirt for a bride who wants to dance the night away at her reception.

If white isn’t your thing, this grey, silk dress by Zuzana Veselá, with a subtle stripe, is perfect for your wedding. Paired it with Belgravia stone suede pumps and an Apm Monaco cuff makes for a chic, fashion-forward look.

Many brides choose to celebrate their day on a beautiful sandy beach with the background noise of waves crashing against the shore. This short wrap dress, paired with Pedro Garcia sandals is perfect for a sandy setting.

The Bridesmaids

Every bride needs her bridesmaids. They are the glue that holds the special day together and they accentuate the bride. The bridesmaid kit helps you put together a beautifully harmonious look that will tie everything together.

Soft peach is all the rave in the wedding world for an accent color. Match a simple, yet flattering dress by Zuzana Veselá with Kendra Scott earrings,  a bangle by Kate Spade New York, a fun hair accessory, Dune London heels, and matching coin purses as a present for your lovely ladies.

The Flower Girl

Flower girls add the sweetest touch to a wedding ceremony with their cuteness overload. Let the little girl shine in a child’s size of Zuzana Velesá’s bridesmaid dress along with adorable flats from Selfridges and a dainty pearl bracelet from Little Girl’s Pears (the name is just as adorable as the bracelet).

The Guests

Skimming through your closet looking for what to wear to a wedding can take ages. There are so many unspoken rules and finding the appropriate get-up can be stressful. Let me help you out by showing what I think is best to wear as a guest.

Don’t be afraid to bring a pop of color to the wedding! I am in love with this vibrant cocktail dress by Zuzana Veselá. Throw it on with an Olivia Burton watch, a Micheal Kors clutch, red Aquazzura pumps, and Greener Grass Design earrings for a look that will transition flawlessly into the reception.

This breezy layered dress screams wedding with its pastel colors and soft appeal. Pair it with fun pumps by Aspinal of London and a wrist full of bangles.

The final look is perfect for any summer wedding. This Zuzana Veselá dress is sure to keep you feeling comfortable and put together. The addition of a Dian Von Furstenburg clutch, Dune sandals, and Erickson Beamon earrings is sure to complete the look.