things that marked 2015 for me

This was an incredible year for me, and it was just as exhausting, and looking back now - it feels like it was three years packed into one. It was a milestone year for me, not in a big and glamorous way - a gradual change of things and behaviors not so obvious to other people, but significant to me, is what left the biggest mark. I don't have the intention of doing a retrospective here - honestly these are not the things you'd find interesting. Instead, I decided to highlight small things that marked my year in one way or the other.

1. A PHOTO

Sadly, I didn't get to spend much time behind the camera this year. But there was that one occasion when I said 'we are doing this photoshoot no matter what' and I'm glad we did. It was our anniversary shoot, you know, when I forgot how my camera works at all. Fun story and the photos I really really love.

2. THE NEWS
There were many tiny little victories this year, and there was this (bigger) one that made me so excited I wanted to tell everyone - I became a web journalist for Harper's BAZAAR Serbia. It's an honor, and it's so humbling to be given an opportunity like that.

3. THE BOOK
I'm ashamed to say, but besides the professional literature (sigh) I didn't really have time to read as much as I'd like to, but I still managed to steal some time and dive into some amazing books. Two of them were Bukowski's - 'Women' and 'Ham on Rye', the latter one being my favorite. His writings are so raw and honest and bursting with pure emotions, so now I finally understand the hype. Also, I realized there are far better Bukowski quotes than those excessively shared all over Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. If only people bothered to actually read the books...

Salon5, Belgrade

Salon 5 is a small restaurant in the old part of Zemun, placed in a cozy, saloon apartment. It's a mix of a gastronomic concept and a showroom space - with design furniture, art pieces and photographs hanging on the walls, as well as owner's personal collection of books and records on the shelves. It's unlike any other place in Belgrade, and it's ranked #1 in the restaurant scene of Belgrade by Trip Advisor. And there's even more to say about Salon 5...

Knit dress

If I could wear an outfit over and over again during the colder months, it would be this one. And honestly, I'm fighting the urge to actually wear it day after day. Without the coat, it's a three pieces outfit, it easy to get dresses and it's so cozy and warm, while it still has chic vibe. And really you're in a cotton cloud. And on heels. It doesn't get better than that.

Also I wanted to draw your attention to the exhibition dedicated to the life and work of the great Serbian scientist and inventor, Mihajlo Pupin, opened at the Historical Museum of Serbia in Belgrade. The author of this exhibition is Aleksandra Ninković Tasić, and it's incredibly informative and inspiring, and with the use of modern technologies it's an interactive exhibition. It blew my mind that something like this is made in Belgrade (it made me really proud because it's amazing, and made me sad because it's an exception rather than a rule in my city, and also in our schools we learn very little about this amazing Serbian man, which is a shame!!!). However, if you have a chance, I recommend you visit this exhibition, it's opened until February 20, 2016.
Hoping for more things like this to happen in Belgrade and Serbia in the future. People are craving for cultural resurgence!

Did you know you were free?

There's this one topic that's been tickling my mind lately for quite some time, and in the light of certain recent events even more so. And the question is - why do we, as women, accept and live up to certain stereotypes? That's a question that is not asked often enough, if at all. On the other hand, what we do hear very often are complaints about women being objectified, women not being treated equal to men and so on. Now, don't get me wrong, I am a feminist by definition. But as a woman and feminist, it saddens me to see what most women set up as their goals and what they aspire to.

 I would dare to say that women of today are quite shallow. Just walk into any drugstore and you'll see that 95% of the beauty and vanity products are designed for women. Yet, there's this popular opinion that this role is somehow imposed on us by the society. That's where we get to 'certain recent events' I mentioned - Essena O'Neil story that went viral. Essena, in her dramatic video confession advocates that social media is 'evil' and somehow it 'makes' you design yourself and your life to be likeable. Honestly, I can't agree on that. We are all free to choose our own aspirations. We are free to choose our idols. To set our own goals. Never have I ever felt the pressure to do my full make-up every single morning, and take pictures in order for people to like me. If I did feel that way, I would consider myself an unstable person.

How deep is your love?

Gathering all my strength to end this year in a productive manner (because it really was productive from the beginning). I don't know if this spring that is happening in mid November is helping or making everything worse, because all I want is to just go out and spend all day under the sun, but I keep myself from doing that because the book (and lots of work) are waiting for me, so I just end up sad. It is nice to see sunshine even through the window, but I don't know. I did let myself enjoy the weather for two days of complete zen, and I swear it felt like the world stopped turning. Now I'm thinking about buying a mini zen garden (something like this), but not sure if that would relax me or make me go nuts. Also I want one with white frame, but can't find it anywhere. Confused is what I am these days, indeed, but that's what spring in November does to your head I guess...

la vie est belle

I'm in a desperate need of new lens and sun to not be setting at 4p.m. Blogging this way is nearly impossible. However, it's such a beautiful day outside, the weather is perfect, so I feel it's rude to complain about anything today. Seriously, the air is so crisp, the light is incredible, and the sun shines so intensely, you'd think it's the most beautiful spring day, not mid November. Can't help but feel a sudden surge of optimism, hope you feel it too.

Enjoy the photos taken at my favorite spot in town, and have a fabulous Monday!

dark side of the moon

Some people will only love you as long as you fit in their box. Don't be afraid to disappoint.

Guerlain Ne m’Oubliez Pas Perfume - the return of exclusivity

In place and time where everything is mass-producted and available to everyone, new fragrance from Guerlain - Ne m’Oubliez Pas is the last man standing for exclusivity.

This perfume's availability is limited strictly to Champs-Elysées boutique in Paris. In other words, no, you can not buy it online, or anywhere else in the world. As an epitome of exclusivity, Guerlain makes an anti mass-consumtion statement with its hard to get luxurious product. And it's a bold statement in the world of social media and online everything. It's risky but that's what makes Guerlain an icon!

And just as I was banging my head over news such as 'Models taking selfies at D&G fashion show' and 'Reem Acra presents bridal selfie sticks' (it agitates me the way all the designers try to appeal to digital generations - just imagine what it means when a fashion blogger says that!) - Guerlain brings the smile back on my face and hope back into my heart!

Foto credit: monsieurguerlain.com

Pick(s) of the week... Florals!

1. Dress - Valentino
2. Dress - Valentino
3. Bag - Gucci
4. Shoes - Valentino
5. Shoes - Valentino
6. Dress - Marni
(click to shop)

Florals in autumn are not exactly a groundbreaking concept, but I am a fan of everything unexpected and unusual. Floral print may not be my thing, but this dark, goth glam version makes me want to cover myself in it - from head to toe! Unexpectedly enough, this is my favorite fall/winter trend! How about you?

Story about a dress

It happens very rare that you get to see me in a body hugging silhouette (read: it never happens) because i prefer slightly oversized clothes most of the times. Wearing tight clothes makes me conscious about all of my body parts and it makes me overly critical to myself and that is not a recipe for feeling good about yourself, right? But let me tell you, this dress is a game changer! There is something incredibly sexy about tight, black, all covered up dress! It makes me feel part like a superhero part like movie heroine. And I feel good wearing it even though, all covered up, it doesn't really hide anything. 

Bohemian Rhapsody

For the last month and a half, I swear the stars aligned to mess with my head. My schedule became so tight, that more often than not I had to literally run from one appointment to another. All at the same time, I started statistics classes (so that I could pass my exam), I became web journalist for HB and my colleague went to vacation for two weeks so I had more job to do than ever before (and that's just a part of what was going on). Speaking of tight timetable, I had to squeeze my bday celebration in 3 hours straught! Literally, I had three hours before I had to rush to statistics class. There were many moments when I would laugh at my rotten luck. I didn't even get annoyed, it was beyond ridiculous the way Marfi screwed with me. Finally, it coincided that Harper's BAZAAR first anniversary party was the night before my exam... like seriously? Who's doing that to me and why? Before, I would go bananas and cancel everything, but not anymore. Party the night before an important exam? Challenge accepted! Of course I passed it (like a boss)! Go ahead Marfi, what else do you have in store for me? I can take anything!

Golden hour

This skirt is made of perforated suede, and too bad you can't see it well in these pics, because it looks amazing! This is a great example of an outfit that can take you from day to night. I wore this to work, with flats and a cardigan thrown over my shoulders, and then switched to nude heels and a fancier bag for moms bday lunch, as you can see in pictures. 

On the Rocks

With the last set of photos from Greece, I'm taking a moment to appreciate the fact that in this exhausting year, I did have 10 days of complete relaxation and joy. If it looks like I'm constantly complaining, I'm not. I'm just amazed by how much my capacities surpassed my own expectations, and how far determination can take you. If September is a beginning of a new cycle, I can tell it's going to be a good one!
Enjoy my favorite set of photos, taken on my favorite beach, by my favorite person in the whole world! ♥

Gnezdo Organic

Monday is a great day for new beginnings, so today I'm starting a new category on the blog! I've already mentioned that there's much I want to do, and a lot of it has to do with taking this online place of mine to another level. 'Cool places' is a category that's been on my mind for a long time, because Belgrade is becoming more and more rich with really cool restaurants and coffee shops, and I'm a sucker for these. I'll start these series with one great concept- Gnezdo Organic restaurant - go ahead and read bellow what they have to say!

New chapter

One of the things that's been cooking up during August is that I became web journalist at Harper's Bazaar Serbia. Can you imagine how excited I am? No, I don't think you can. It was an opportunity that I just could not miss, so cheers to that!

City girl

vest - Express

shirt - H&M

shorts - H&M

bag - Parfois

sneakers - Adidas

/ph. Stefan/

These days are so weird and confusing. One moment I feel so incredibly inspired and motivated, and just a few hours later I feel completely drained, and all I want is to sleep this tiredness away until I feel like human being again. However, I use those inspired moments as much as I possibly can, I make plans and lists, and write down ideas, I dream and work to make those dreams a reality. There is so much I want to do, and me being me, I want to do everything at the same time, so it takes lots of discipline to keep myself from doing that. Step by step is the way to go. Time flies by too fast anyway, so the future I dream of will arrive in a blink of an eye.
Stay inspired!
Love,
A.

Pick of the week... silk scarf!

It's always the little details that make the most difference, and give that wow effect. Tiny silk scarves are coming back big time, and for a reason! They'll make any basic outfit chic and bohemian, and très très cool! Choose basic, high-quality garments, and casually throw on your silk scarf - the result is a very chic (and low-maintenance) look, without even trying. 

Oh, and it's a great DIY idea!

Greek

Bellow the knee lenghts are maybe a little critical for me, because I'm not the tallest gal, and my legs are, khm, specific. But you know, it only happens once in a million years that I fall in love with the dress, so much that it's beauty makes me forget about my imperfections! And I adore it just as it is, making it above the knee is not an option. Besides, forgetting about your flaws is so liberating and refreshing and... healthy! Society and the media makes us strive for something we are not, and in such a subtle way that we don't even notice it. But once the pressure is off, you'll be able to see there's more than one mold for beauty!

Lady is a Tramp

It's funny how whenever I dress up, Lady is a Tramp starts playing in my head. I mean it can be cool, and I love doing it from time to time. It just feels like costume, kind of. I refuse to fake and pretend I'm something I'm not. So it only happens once in a long time.

But grown-up clothes like, elegant, sophisticated, toned-down clothes - God I love that! Since my teen years I loved that kind of clothes and wanted to wear it but felt ridiculous in it. So I carefully collected pieces, and waited to feel mature enough for them. And at 26, and more importantly, with all that's behind me - I do feel mature enough. I've earned my pretty clothes.

Pick of the week... Culottes!

Culottes... they definitely are a trend that's not easy to follow. The first impression might be they only look good on a model silhouette - but that's not true! Trust the girl who's not tall (read: short) and has slightly crooked legs - I feel so stylish in them! After months of weighing pros and cons, yesterday I got my first pair at Zara, and I'm already looking for another one because now it's all I want to wear.

What do you think?

into the blue

Honestly, I can't believe it's been more than a month since I came back from Greece. I cherished those moments of peace, because I knew it's going to be hectic once I'm back. But I couldn't even imagine all the things August is going to throw at me. Both wonderful and challenging. It's a storm around me, but I'm at peace. Because my mind is set, and I'm determined to succeed. Now, let's take a deep breath, and prepare for September!

Colorless...

"To be irreplaceable, you need to be different."

Obsessed with... Chloé Faye bag!

Chloé Faye

Something that doesn't happen that often, is that I fall for a designer bag. I'm not a bag person at all (team shoes!!!) but every once in a while I go crazy for a certain bag. This past months it's been two bags even! After Ralph Lauren Ricky, I fell in love with the gorgeous Faye bag. It's a perfect mix of bohemian, luxurious and rock chic, which kind of hits the soft spot with me. It's on my bag-wishlist, and I don't even have a bag-wishlist haha!

What do you think? Any bag crushes?

Love, A ♥

Signs

I have this quirky habit of buying a birthday present to myself every year. It goes way back, and I can't even remember how it started, but it's my little intimate way to celebrate what I've achieved in the past year, and to mark the beginning of the new cycle. This year, after a really tough period, I'm proud of where I am compared to where I was this time last year. So I decided I want an over sized, powerful, Cleopatra kind of necklace, and while I was on a hunt for the perfect one, I was contacted by Happiness Boutique, and offered to choose a statement necklace of my choice. It took me 2 seconds to spot this perfection, and I took it as a sign. I tend to find the meaning in every little coincidence in life, another habit of mine. I've been working really really hard, so I rightfully took this as a sign that I'm doing fine. That I'm on the right path. So when I put my Cleopatra necklace on, I'm reminded of the strength I have, and the power I have to shape my destiny the way I please!

Stay positive,

Love, A ♥

Golden

To run. I've been running away my entire life. And the truth is, it is always myself that I'm running from. It took almost 26 years for me to realize that, guess I'm a slow learner. But the hard part is changing that. To come out clean, to be completely honest to both yourself and others - is to be free. And I've been yearning for freedom for a long, long time.

Thursday, what a great day to change your life!

Pick of the week... wooden sunglasses

Woodzee Kate

Among all the cool shades, the ones that got my attention this summer are the wooden ones. I haven't seen something so cool in quite a while to be honest! The design is simple - should I say classic? - but the texture of the wood makes them really stand out. Perfect summer statement piece!

wind

It happens so often lately that I don't know what to write here. I feel like describing my outfit or spilling some pretentious shitty advice on what to wear, doesn't do justice to this online home of mine. I have this idea of sharing stories and experiences with you, fashion being just an accessory to all that. But my mind is constantly, tirelessly swirling with thoughts, and I can't seem to articulate them into words and sentences. At this point in my life, I'm so preoccupied with job, and studying, and blogging, and dozen more things, and I constantly consider what else I could squeeze in. My mind is restless, and I love being busy as it truly makes me happy, but from time to time I start feeling exhausted. At the moment, I feel like great things are just around the corner, and I have the strength to move mountains. You'll just have to forgive me that I'm speechless sometimes, it's really loud in my head.
Stay hungry, stay foolish ♥

Obsessed with... knotted sandals

In the previous outfit post you've seen me wearing Birkenstock look-a-like slides (that I'm in love with), but these Massimo Dutti nappa knotted sandals have completely stolen my heart! I'm sharing them here with you, in a desperate attempt to stop myself from rushing to the store to get them! Also, I'll make this a regular column - once a week I'll share my fashion picks with you, and I hope in comments you'll also share your picks with me ♥

Summer in the city

Ever since I came back from Greece, I can't stop fantasizing about living by the seaside. It was never my thing before, 10 days by the sea in the summer were usually more than enough (even when I was a kid), but now it really started to grow on me. Being so casual about my clothes, and hair and (non-existing) makeup is just one of the things I brought back with me.