Belgium: A.F. Vandevorst

July 20, 2014 | Design & Culture by Ed

A.F. Vandevorst is a brand I knew before, but I have never been too interested in it. Until I visited Belgium. First of all, you need to know these two simple equation: A.F. = Filip Arickx, while Vandevorst = Ann Vandevorst. And these two are quiet, cool couple, which created a Belgian, red-crossed brand which may be easily spotted thanks to it’s characteristics. Over the years, the duo’s influences have ranged from S&M-tinged clinical uniforms (such as the SS 2007 nun habits, SS 2008 PVC trenchcoats, FW 2014 army cargo, and their signature red cross logo) to German artists such as Joseph Beuys and choreographer Pina Bausch, and a week spent with the Samburu tribe in Kenya (SS 2012). Looking at their archives, I am impressed- the brand is so sophisticated and interesting. But it always keeps it’s specific, dark-romance style.

Belgium: BRUGGE WALK

July 17, 2014January 5, 2024 | Design & Culture by Ed

What to love about Brugge? For me, the fact that it’s the most romantic (sorry, Paris), elusive and charming place on Earth. You may walk through the 19th century built streets, feel the warmth of all the citizens and eat tones and tones of mussels and waffles everyday… as Brugge (and Belgium) has a lot of to offer, here is a little introduction with my photos of the favourite places in this beautiful city!

Milan: BULGARI Hotel

August 21, 2013August 21, 2013 | Design & Culture by Ed

Yes! This is the best hotel in Milan- THE BULGARI HOTEL & RESORT! This place is bringing up biggest fashionistas during fashion weeks, super-stars and many more. I am always feeling so relaxed after few days here… Located in the centre of the the city, it’s just few steps from Giorgio Armani imperium with Armani Libre, Armani Cafe, Armani Fiore, Armani Tech, Armani Perfumes, Armani Blah-Blah and Blah plus hundreds of Pradas and Guccis. But that ain’t important for the moment. The hotel is owned by Bulgari (yes, this Bulgari) and it is simply a state of luxury! The rooms are all beautiful decorated with chocolate, beige and black colours, all supplied with Bulgari books. In big lobby you shall get some cold tea, and the breakfasts… Oh the breakfast… They are great. You won’t find better place in Milan for great relax!

Tuscany: Carrara

August 19, 2013January 5, 2024 | Design & Culture by Ed

Carrara is the city of marble in Tuscany, where biggest amounts of marble are found and used from the local mountains. It sounds kind of normally, but in reality and landscape around looks destroyed and devastated- the mountains are simply peeled off! For sure there is no ecology in that… But the city looks fantastic. It is very old, but you shall find modern marble sculptures everywhere, that looks cool. And there is also this church made all out of marble… It all makes me think of Balenciaga by Alexander Wang AW13 collection inspired with marble form!

Tuscany: Fiacchini Boutique

August 18, 2013August 18, 2013 | Design & Culture by Ed

The Fiacchini boutique in Forte dei Marmi that is a sea resort in Tuscany, is a great space that will for sure catch an eye of every fashionista. With it’s artistic interior full of rabbits, skulls and human anatomy decorations, this store sells hot labels like Celine, Equipment, Saint Laurent, Balmain, Fausto Puglisi and much more with many independent, less know Italian labels that the names I can’t recall. With champagne bottles all around, it feels here very modern and youthful, the clothes full of chic and trend and of course, the best, with individuality!