What does a fashion student in Italy do? Visit leather factories and learn from the experts of course!

The perks of being a fashion student in Italy is that you get to learn first hand from the leading experts and most well know fashion houses of the industry. And what are the Italians certainly experts in? LEATHER, of course! One of the many hands on, out of the classroom experiences my program offered were visits to local leather factories and authentic leather workshops. One of these was a visit to Piero Tucci in Florence, Italy.

Here we learned about several parts of the leather product cycle, from understanding different levels of quality, hide selection, prepping, inking, embossing, and even the cut and sew process of assembling hand made products. While reading about these processes can be informative, authentic hands on learning from the experts is priceless.

There is nothing like seeing the process of raw material being transformed into a beautiful piece of craftsmanship. Italians are all about quality, down to the last detail. And walking through the process in which quality is chosen and then elevated to art is a truly unique experience.

Info

Comment

Colors of Brazil - Adriana Barra

During a trip to Sao Paulo, a local friend took me to visit a lovely boutique by Brazilian designer, Adriana Barra.

www.adrianabarra.com.br

I was immediately blown away by the vibrant patterns and colors.

Her mix of stark black and white with splashes of color was unique.

Every piece was full of life.

Her collections convey the positive energy, fun and freedom of the Brazilian lifestyle.

A breath of fresh air among many muted and simplistic designs trending. It was like walking through one life-size, colorful piece of art.

With a background in several creative mediums including, fashion design, interior design and photography, she left no detail untouched.

From the interior decor, to the rolls of raw fabric, the entire shop displayed her clever knack for visual art. I was delighted to learn she also studied in Florence, Italy as I did.

A truly unique and memorable visit in Brazil. Adriana's vision kept me wanting more.

Info

Comment

Style Profile: Michelle de Matheu

"I show that clothes are a vehicle, a SECRET LANGUAGE. It expresses your personality, thoughts and feelings. "

Golden Globe Favorites 2015

Here are my top 3 favorites from this year's Golden Globe Awards. I mean really the single look I'm obsessed with is Jennifer Lopez in Zuhair Murad. One of the most talked about looks yet, JLO is always on the top of my fave list. I love that she is never afraid to go after that wow factor. She embodies the idea of a movie star/ rockstar. Okay, yes fine I've had a girl crush on her since Selena but who wouldn't! She's gorgeous and always keeps the red carpet interesting.

Overall the color palette varied quite a bit. Everything from neutrals, to pastels, metallics to clean black on black. There was a a lit of sparkle detail and also several opted for the nude and blush tones. The mermaid train is one of my all time favorites so happy to see tons of it this year.

Jennifer Lopez, in Zuhair Murad Haute Couture

Info

Comment

EMILIO PUCCI - Cities of the World Limited Collection Scarves

This Fall, the fashion house Emilio Pucci launched a very special collection of exclusive scarves, call the Cities of the World. These beautifully designed pieces, showcase six of the most amazing international cities across the world: Paris, New York, Shanghai, Florence, Rome and Hong Kong. Each design is a a special hand drawn print that highlights the unique culture and style of these iconic cities, while incorporating the signature vibrancy of colors well known to the Pucci brand.

These gorgeous scarves are only available in limited quantities and can only be purchased exclusively at the Emilio Pucci Boutiques or online store.

Check out these beautiful works of art HERE

I SO want one of these super chic scarves, of course my eye is on the Florence piece as Firenze will always have a special place in my heart.

A truly unique piece for any travel and fashion enthusiast.

The Cities of the World Collection is just THE accessory must have for all those living at the intersection of Fashion and Travel, like myself.

A girl can only hope the House of Pucci will expand the collection to feature even more amazing cities across the world. How great would it be to collect these to celebrate all the memorable cities you have traveled to?! And one for your home town too of course!

Dear Mr. Peter Dundas, a San Francisco backdrop would be nothing short of gorgeous with one of your colorful designs!

Sincerely, Stelavie, Where Fashion and Travel Intersect

Info

Comment