The ballerina

Sticking to the theme of footwear, I simply have to report about the little princess of all shoes.

I must admit, I did not always admire her. When my mother started collecting these utterly adorable, always amazingly comfortable and highly versatile little ladies, I considered her old-fashioned. It was not until 4-5 years ago that I finally came to appreciate the sophistication and elegance of the ballerina.

When in doubt about what to wear as an accompaniment to your outfit - to the office, to a party, to a lunch, for a run downtown or on vacation - the ballerina is always the right choice. She will be your loyal, quiet and good-looking partner, never letting you down even after a long working day or a busy day outside.

Let me introduce you to the list of my favorites. Oh là là!

These little beauties were found on www.asos.com

Pretty ballerinas never cease to impress me. Their choice combined with affordability is fabulous.

Since Catherine Deneuve wore hers in "Belle do Jour", these are considered classic. No wonder.

Tod' is always a great choice. Their comfort and quality are exceptional.

As already reported, Unuetzer's recent colorful collections are a must-have for any lady.

Zara offers affordable and always stylish ballet flats - this year in great bright colors.

Just like Roger Vivier, Ferragamo's Varina has become famous thanks to a true style icon- Audrey Hepburn.

Finally, Marni offers a beautiful ballerina with bows - on both ends! AAAH

Summer colors from Unuetzer

Loving this summery darling ballerinas from Unuetzer. The colorful elements make these cuties suitable for any occasion - combined with black pants and a blouse in the office; lunch in a light breezy dress; cocktails in the evening in jeans and a blazer à la 1980s. Want, need, must have! NOW.

More bows

Found these little beauties in a cute store in Munich - wanted to share!

Cuteness

I found these beautiful bags on one of my favorite blogs www.theneotraditionalist.com.

The author has an amazing taste and finds the most fantastic pieces ever!

Get these on www.netaporter.com

It's tea time - well, not just yet

As much as I have come to appreciate a cup of latte macchiato, tea will always be my one and only love when it comes to spending a quiet cozy afternoon.
There are exactly three brands, that make exceptional tea and to which I will always be faithful. Kusmi tea and Mariage Frères from Paris as well Clipper Teas from the UK.


All three brands offer premium quality tea (admittedly, at a premium price - but worth every cent spent!!!)  in  beautiful packing, which is, let's be honest, quite important :)

www.kusmitea.com

www.mariagefreres.com - make sure you check out their beautiful tea house in the Marais District in Paris - a MUST-HAVE for any tea lover!

www.clipper-teas.com

Literary

Next to Bernhard Schlink, whom I have learned to admire lately, I absolutely fell in love with the French genius Romain Gary. His emotional Promesse de l'aube has become one of my favorite novels of all times. In this book, Romain tells the story of his childhood, which was reigned by his jewish mother's overwhelming love and faith in her offspring's great future. To live up to her dreams, Romain has made sure to realize all of her prophecies, including becoming a World War II aviator, film director, diplomat and above all, novelist. Beautifully written, touching piece of art.

Une pharmacie francaise

I love french pharmacies! Primarily, because they are not just pharmacies, but basically parfumeries selling good quality natural french cosmetics. Whenever I spend some time in France, I always pay a long visit - much to amusement of my company - to a parashop or a similar institution- to get acquainted with the latest discoveries in the world of natural beauty.There are a number of products that I have discovered there - I will collect the best ones in a separate post - including the beloved brand Compagnie de Provence a while ago while living in Paris, which is worth an exclusive entry.


I love their pure, stylish and colorful packaging, which serves as a bright accessory in my plain white bathroom. To hold the name "Marseillaise", the ingredients of french cosmetics must be natural, so this one promises to be really healthy! And pretty to look at :).

http://www.compagniedeprovence.com/

Unfortunately, they do not ship outside of France, but a number of boutiques around the world do sell a selection of their products. In Paris, check out their boutiques in the 6th and 9th, respectively.