Beauté Review ~ Louboutin Nail Lacquer

When I read Christian Louboutin was coming out with a nail lacquer, I quickly ordered a bottle and anxiously awaited it’s arrival.  Louboutin stated he wanted the bottle an objet d’art and that it is.  The architectural ombré bottle features multiple facets and is inspired by classical balustrades found in 17th and 18th Century European buildings.
The 7″ cap is modeled after Ballerina ULTIMA, the tallest heel designed by Louboutin, while the triangle-brisled brush is intended to create a flawless finish of pigmented laquer free of pesky bubbles.  The timeless rouge shade is inspired by the iconic red sole of every Louboutin shoe and the formula is free of free of toluene, formaldehyde, and DBP.
“The red sole was born from red nail polish. I am giving back to beauty what the shoes took from the nails many years ago.” –Christian Louboutin
For my review: One coat provides enough opacity while two creates a patent-like effect for nearly a week.  My manicure remained chip-free, only showing a hint of wear along an edge or two.  Keep in mind, I use CND Stickey as a base coat and believe this formula is mostly responsible for my manicures lasting as long as they do.  I do, however, believe this formula is exceptional as well and will last, as it should be at $50 per bottle.  This isn’t chump change and my Dior and Chanel polishes seem to somewhat be thrifty in comparison.  My manicurist is impressed with the polish also.

“Christian Louboutin nail colour encourages the wearer to take her time and enjoy the pleasure of the object as well as the pleasure of colour.” –CL

Louboutin nail lacquers come in an array of beautiful shades and the bottles are meant to be displayed and admired.

xoxo,

B

7 Things on My October Radar


Bonjour mes amis!  I hope you had a wonderful weekend.  We had fun with autumn activities, but ended with Bella under the weather.  I’m staying home taking good care of my best girl and hoping she feels better soon.  It’s hard to see our little ones sick, isn’t it?

As with any season comes a list of “wants and needs.”  Autumn is my favourite with all of the layers, various boots, shoes, and coats.  I’m especially loving pink coats, anything that sparkles, and over the knee boots.

1 – I love this necklace by Xevana and the price point isn’t bad, plus you can layer them.  Other styles here, here, and here.

2 – I have an addiction to beautiful lingerie.  Addiction.  This bodysuit is beautiful and definitely on my wishlist for October.

3 – I’m smitten with this coat by Ted Baker.  The soft pink colour and tailored fit make this a classic.  Similar here and here.

4 – I really love linen tanks and tees.  They’re perfect under fall jackets and have a great drape while keeping their shape.  I love this one, this one, and this one, similar here and here

5 – With cooler temps moving in, faux fur is one of my favourite things to decorate with.  I place throws, pillows, and blankets on almost all of our sofas and beds.  The soft colours of these are perfect for the dove grey, black, gold and white colours in our bedroom.

6 – I layer several bracelets and this one by Jules Smith is stunning.  Other styles I love herehere, and here.

7 – Stuart Weitzman is one of my favourite boot brands.  They’re timeless and excellent quality.  Here, also love the heel on this one, similar here.

What is on your October radar?

Wishing you a wonderful week!

xoxo,

B

Bon Weekend, Plus Couture Cocktails

Happy Friday and bon weekend!  I hope you had a great week and wonderful autumn weekend planned.  As always, it flew by in a flurry and I’m ready for weekend activities.  There isn’t much on the calendar for us other than seeing grandparents and hoping to find fun October activities in the city. 

Hidden Paris Photography Walking Tour.
This cocktail is really delicious and I always love a classic cocktail, plus it pretty and delicious!  I love crème de violette paired with lemon, and the maraschino liqeuer gives it a wonderful added flavour.
Couture Cocktails

The Aviation
Aviation cocktail by HonestlyYUM
Aviation Classic Cocktail Recipe by HonestlyYUM
Aviation Classic Cocktail Recipe by HonestlyYUM
Aviation Classic Cocktail Recipe by HonestlyYUM

Ingredients:

2 oz gin

1/2 oz maraschino liqueur

3/4 oz lemon juice

1/4 oz crème de violette

edible violet for garnish

Directions:

Add all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice.

Shake for a full 10 seconds.

Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

Garnish with an edible violet and enjoy.


Wishing you a beautiful weekend!

xoxo,

B

Photo via here and recipe here

Autumn Fashion Inspiration: The Tartan Scarf


I’m not really one to follow trends per se.  I typically spot things each season that I like but not because it’s something to have but rather that I like it and can incorporate it into my wardrobe.  While perusing Pinterest, as I typically do, I stumbled upon a this autumn look that I’m smitten with…

.
I really love this scarf.  Her ensemble is basic but the scarf pulls it together and gives it a pop of colour.  Similar scarf here, here, a classic here, and also love this one and this one.

xoxo,

B

Design Inspiration: Lauren Conrad’s Penthouse

This photo of Lauren’s home office caught my eye ~ the bright orange sofa, vintage typewriter and phone, and French chair.  Stunning!  I was intrigued to see more and was not disappointed, the girl has style and a wonderful interior designer!

Lauren Conrad
The rug is made from recycled silk saris. “I always gravitate toward feminine details,” said Conrad. “On a garment it’s a bow; on a sofa it’s tufting.”
Lauren Conrad

I love Lauren’s use of bright colours in her home.  Many people are afraid of bright colours, however, a few pops done right like this custom tufted banguqet and orange sofa make a home feel bright and cheery.  I plan to incorporate this Eero Saarinen table in my kitchen also.
Lsuren Conrad - The Bathroom

To be honest, I’m not fond of anything in this bath other than the bathtub and paneling.  It’s a nice room but the chair looks uncomfortable and the lights along the mirror make it look too “Hollywood”  rather than a home.
Lauren Conrad
The living room is designed in neutral shades with complements of black and gold.  I love the tufted sofa. 
Lauren Conrad - The Fireplace

Lauren added a brick veneer that was whitewashed to look more aged. The chimney-less fireplace is decorative and burns alcohol.
Lauren Conrad - The Bar
Lauren Conrad - The Dining Room

The vintage dining table and chairs pair well with the contemporary lighting.
Lauren Conrad - The Kitchen
I really love her kitchen ~ casual and airy.  I have the same hedgehog measuring cups displayed on her bottom left shelf.  I love them and they make cooking more fun.
Lauren Conrad - The Closet
Lauren Conrad - More of Conrad's Closet
Her dressing room features mirrored and glass sliding doors, stacked vintage luggage, and small chandelier.  As always, I love the French chair.

What do you love about Lauren’s Beverly Hills penthouse?

xoxo,

B

If you would like help in creating a home you love, please contact me at Brenda@atelierdhautedesign.com
Photos via here

Delightful Recipe: Caprese Ravioli with Roasted Tomato Pesto Sauce

Bonjour mes ami’s!  Here is a little appetizer I made for a dinner party awhile ago and it was a huge hit.  I make it from time to time and shake up the ingredients a bit but the original is delicious and I get so many compliments when I make it.  It’s really quick and easy, especially with store bought pasta sheets.  It would also be perfect for a main course.

Caprese Ravioli with Roasted Tomato and Pesto Sauce

Ingredients:

Quality pasta sheets, or you can make from scratch
Pre-roasted grape tomatoes
Mozzarella balls
Fresh basil
Pesto sauce
Lemon zest
Balsamic glaze {optional}

Tools:

3″ pasta cutter, or any size you prefer
Cut pasta and wet the edges, layer filling in center {be sure the tomato is not too juicy as it can cause the ravioli to be too wet}, then crimp edges together with a fork close to the mozzarella ball so it doesn’t slide around.  Place in pot with boiling water until tender and let drain on cloth.
To save time, use good quality store bought pesto, add a few roasted tomatoes, a little lemon zest, mix together and spoon all over.  You can also drizzle your plates good quality balsamic glaze.
xoxo,
B
If you would like help in creating a home you love, please contact me at Brenda@atelierdhautedesign.com
Recipe via here

Bonjour Monday, Plus a Venetian Wedding

I hope you had a wonderful weekend!  The weather has been beautiful the past weeks which makes being outdoors imperative – sunset champagne toasts after a bicycle ride, night out with the girls, and a little relaxation…  

George Clooney and Amal Alamuddin might just be the best looking married couple... ever.
I’m sure you’ve heard the eternal bachelor, George Clooney, was married over the weekend to love and human rights lawyer, Amal Alamuddin.  The intimate ceremony took place at the Aman Canal Grande Luxury resort in Venice on Saturday.

.

The festivities began on Friday afternoon as the glamorous couple rode down the canal…
.
… the groom left dinner at Da Ivo restaurant as the couple spent the evening separately with their friends and family.
.
Clooney enroute to the wedding ceremony.
.

Leaving their resort on Sunday as a married couple.  I am swooning over Amal’s Giambattista Valli dress.
George Clooney and Amal Alamuddin leave The Aman Canal Grande Hotel
.
A close-up photo showing both Amal and George's wedding bands, as well as more detail on her stunning Giambattista Valli dress. via @stylelist

The beautiful details of Amal’s dress.  I also love the simplicity of her wedding band.

They looked incredibly happy and each ensemble they wore was impeccable.  There are not photos yet of the wedding dress, however, Vogue reportedly has the rights to the photos.  Rumors are that the dress was designed by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen.  I can hardly wait to see it.

Wishing you a wonderful week!

xoxo,

B

If you would like help in creating a home you love, please contact me at Brenda@atelierdhautedesign.com

Photo via here and here

Bon Weekend, Couture Cocktails, Plus Exciting News

Bon weekend!  I hope you had a wonderful week and an even better weekend planned, or perhaps no plans and a weekend of repose.  This has been a busy week and we have a full schedule but planning a champagne toast to the sunset this evening after our bike ride.  I love that moment of watching the sun go down across the lake… beautiful and peaceful. 

Couture Cocktails



  • Limoncello-Gin Cocktail with Grilled Thyme

  • 2 large sprigs fresh thyme; more for garnish
  • 1/2 fl. oz. (1 Tbs.) fresh lime juice
  • 1-1/2 fl. oz. (3 Tbs.) gin, preferably Bluecoat American Dry
  • 1/2 fl. oz. (1 Tbs.) limoncello, preferably Averna Limoni di Sicilia
Prepare a gas or charcoal grill fire for direct cooking over medium-high (500°F) heat. Grill the thyme sprigs until fragrant and lightly charred, about 15 seconds. In a mixing glass or cocktail shaker, gently muddle the grilled thyme with the lime juice. Add the gin and limoncello and fill the shaker with ice. Stir well. Strain into a chilled rocks glass filled with fresh ice, garnish with thyme, and serve.
~ Exciting News ~

Do you remember my foster Frenchie, Mac?  He will be in the teaser for his dad’s show, Hell on Wheels, tomorrow night.  Be sure to watch him!

Is that not the most beautiful smile?  He sure made me feel loved when he looked at me like this!


Wishing you a most beautiful weekend!

xoxo,

B

If you would like help in creating a home you love, please contact me at Brenda@atelierdhautedesign.com

Photo via here, recipe via here, Mac photo via Moi

Wanderlust: Prince de Galles Hotel, Paris


While on the subject of Paris {when are we not?}, the Prince de Galles hotel, in Paris’s 8th arrondissement, recently underwent a $100 million renovation, courtesy of Pierre-Yves Rochon. 


Built in 1928 by architect Arfvidson for Charles de Galles, the Prince of Wales and son of King George V of England, during his annual visits, the 159-room hotel on Paris’s Avenue George V was built on chaillot quarries and inspired by the Decorative Art exhibition in 1925.  It reopened last summer after a two-and-a-half-year, $100 million redo overseen by designer, Pierre-Yves Rochon.  Rochon is known for his work at the Peninsula Shanghai hotel, London’s Savoy, and Four Seasons, all of which have won rave reviews, as well as restaurants for chefs such as Joël Robuchon, Alain Ducasse, Paul Bocuse and Gérard Boyer.  The firm has offices in Paris, Chicago, and Shanghai.  

Prince de Galles Hotel Lobby
The lobby’s rich Macassar ebony furnishings are complemented by gold light fixtures and details.





The hotel has so many beautiful details… above are some of my favourites.

Extravagant details fill lavish Paris hotels, but it’s rare that a property embraces the city’s Art Deco decades, however, Rochon decided to return the building to its roots.

Prince de Galles Courtyard
The courtyard features towering palms and restored mosaics that highlight the hotel’s original detailing.
Rochon specifically targeted the 1930s, which he describes as a period “that is not yet very modern, but between the classical and the contemporary. It is really the difference between the past and the future.”

Prince de Galles Bar
The centerpiece of the hotel’s Bar, Les Heures, is a stunning chandelier with a modern twist in the Deco style.
Giving a nod to the hotel’s original design, Rochon designed a tightly tailored ‘tour de force’ of polished Macassar ebony, black Saint Laurent marble, wrought-iron filigree, and gilded accents. For the fabrics, he and his team perused vintage textile books and samples while he designed much of the furniture and lighting himself while taking inspiration from icons of that era, such as Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann.
Prince de Galles Corridor
The corridors feature Deco-era photography, as well as for the carpet and wall coverings.
“When you close a hotel and then open it back up, you need to have something different,” concludes Rochon. “It would have been possible to design a contemporary hotel, but I was thinking it’s not necessary because you have so many hotels that look the same—just the name changes. But here, the hotel has character.”

Prince de Galles Guest Room
A guest room’s mix of patterns is paired with glossy black finishes, pops of colour, and Macassar ebony.
I’ve always wanted to stay here, or at least stop by for a cocktail.  Did you know, while in Germany for his military training in the 1960’s, Elvis Presley caused quite a stir when he walked through the lobby of the hotel. 
xoxo,
B
If you would like help in creating a home you love, please contact me at Brenda@atelierdhautedesign.com

Via here, here, and here

Back to top