A Wonderfelle World

Destination Inspiration: Hotel de la Paix

wonderfelle — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 04:44:35 +0000

I’ve been dyyying to share this hotel since I came across it on Mr. and Mrs. Smith last week because it looks absolutely AMAZING. Admittedly, I’m not particularly familiar with Siem Reap, although apparently it’s a pretty popular tourist destination if you happen to be headed to Cambodia… and if that’s the case you really have no excuse to not stay at the Hotel de la Paix. Dubbed “a cool and calming oasis amongst the eclectic surrounds of Siem Reap,” this 5 star hotel certainly looks ideal for a relaxing getaway…

Ancient Khmer influences meet modern art deco elements throughout the hotel design, while understated elegance sets the underlying tone… well that and the Buddha Bar tunes preloaded on your complimentary iPod. Seriously.

Let’s just pretend you’re jetsetting off to Seim Reap – and since you’re fabulous of course you’ll want to enjoy your welcome cocktails in style… Maxi dress + cardi wrap = my fave travel combination. (I’d also like to take this opportunity to voice my strong belief that it is NOT OK to wear pjs/sweatpants/uggs when you’re traveling. I will never really understand this. Never.)

T-Bags Embellished Jersey Dress, K Karl Lagerfeld Jersey Cardigan, Chloe Cork Wedge Sandals

The hotel pool is this stunning moat-like body of water… Click here for a full screen panorama, it’s completely dreamy.

I’m loving the modern look of the Arts Lounge where you can feast your eyes on some Cambodian art and even enjoy tea time (with a twist)!

Calvin Klein Jersey Tank, Elizabeth & James Sequin Skirt (LOVE!), Tory Burch Liotta Cotton Jacket, Miu Miu Patent Leather Slingbacks (NEED!)

I have a feeling this courtyard is where magic happens…

If you’re lucky you can snag one of 3 loungy swing chairs (err, beds?) and feast on authentic Khmer curry while admiring the pretty people. Because apparently this is where they hang out.

Miu Miu Iris-print Jersey T-Shirt Dress, Zimmermann Gitana Printed Bikini, Jimmy Choo Phoenix Espadrilles

And of course, the guest rooms don’t disappoint! (Check out these duplexes too)

Totally cheesy but this looks like the stage for my ideal date… massages, a glass of wine while enjoying the dipping pool, and dinner for 2. I die, happily.

Oh and did I mention rooms here start around $300 per night? Not bad considering this place was €1745 per person, per night… And that makes me want to cry.

Desire + Acquire

wonderfelle — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 05:00:23 +0000

A few readers who I happen to hang out with in real life have expressed a desire for more posts with items they can actually afford… and while I might not think $600 ballet flats are impractical (if they’re really, really pretty), my addiction to retail therapy isn’t limited to designer duds and one-of-a-kind creations with wedding dress prices. So here’s to my featuring 3 things we can all afford on Tuesdays… or at least trying!

Gilliann Ankle Strap Platform in Purple Suede (on sale for $50) – Yes, please. They look wayyy more expensive than they are – and they’re hot. period.

Sequin Hinged Enamel Bangles ($28) – I’ll take one in every color! Really, why not…

Calypso Iona Dress (on sale for $30) – Easy, breezy and perfect for spring. Maybe with some nude shoes?

My Style Monday: Faves

wonderfelle — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 04:52:01 +0000

A couple weeks ago Miss Sophie of Les Anti-Modernes tagged me to share some of my most-worn and valued pieces making an interesting point that this exercise “brings to light the depths of sartorial experience beyond just coveting beautiful, ‘fashionable’ things…your favorite dress, jacket or pair of shoes embodies memories and has transformative powers that make it special beyond its materiality alone.” Deep, right? Choosing which items to pick wasn’t easy at all, but here’s what I ended up with…

Chanel sunnies and Kors wool coat – The past few months I’ve rarely left my apartment without wearing these things. My eyes are super sensitive to sunlight (especially in the AM) and the coat’s been a necessity since the winter was FREEZING in DC.

St. John Collection dress – Knit dresses are definitely one of my wardrobe staples and my mother and I came across this perfectly form-fitting purple python print beauty on a shopping trip with my aunt – and all 3 of us walked out of the store with it! I’m telling ya there’s magic in this fabric – I don’t know what it is about it, but it fits like a dream and gives me instant confidence, even on fat days!

Ciao Bella boots – When I bought these a few months ago, I wasn’t sure how I felt about the caramel color. I thought the boots would either go with everything, or go with nothing – turns out they go with everything and I’ve been wearing them nonstop! They’re ridiculously comfy which is key since I walk everywhere…

Gemma Redux, Prima Donna, F21 and gifted necklaces, Louis Vuitton Palermo GM – I’ve been loving mixed metal necklaces and anything big and chunky for a while now and these are some of the ones I wear most often. The Gemma Redux was a birthday gift from Z, the chunky gold necklace was a present from my friend J’s store Prima Donna, and the layered gold necklace was a present from my mom. The bag was a present from Santa and is the perfect size for all the “stuff” I carry around.

Of course now that I’ve posted all of these I’m thinking of all of the items I didn’t pick and want to start over… I didn’t pick a pair of pretty heels because I honestly couldn’t choose which ones were my favorites. Same with my cocktail rings, I’m wearing them all constantly! We took photos of a few other things that didn’t turn out as well, but I’d also include my American Apparel leggings in black boa, Chanel 2.55 jumbo bag, and a nude lace Silence and Noise skirt that is unabashedly feminine…

What items would yall choose as your most-valued/treasured/worn? I’d love to know!

Etsy Find Friday: CLF by Claire La Faye

wonderfelle — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 23:06:23 +0000

Life got in the way of blogging this week, in some good and not-so-good ways… I really wish there were 3 more hours in the day sometimes - 1 more hour at night to get all the things done I try to squish in after my work day, 1 more hour to sleep, and 1 more hour in the morning to not feel like I’m groggily rushing off to start the day…

Have a restful weekend everyone! I think I’ll start the weekend with a little nap now, but here’s some eye-candy for you to enjoy from CLF by Claire La Faye’s Etsy shop…

I’m sort of in love with this Parisian Princess Dress… there’s an organic glamour about it that just makes me swoon.

And here’s a similar shorter version in pink!

Destination Inspiration: Eskaya Beach Resort

wonderfelle — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 05:01:20 +0000

Remember when I said I NEEDED to feel the sand between my toes?! Well I’m excited to be heading to the Philippines for a bit of a family reunion and besides spending some time in Manila, we’re going to Bohol which = beach time! Unfortunately… this isn’t happening for a few months (sighhh, insert pouty face) so until then, here’s some island inspiration for you!

I can barely look at swimwear right now since 1) I can’t shop and 2) vacay is so far away… but I’m loving the DVF String Bikini, Tara Matthews Bead-embellished Bikini Set, and Pucci (yes please!) Printed Triangle Bikini.

I have no idea where we’re actually staying, but I literally googled beach resorts in Bohol and found the Eskaya Beach Resort and Spa …Helloo gorgeous. Found in Panglao, the southernmost tip of Bohol, this boutique style all-villa resort is apparently great for people looking for peace and serenity (read: no childrens’ activity pool and no all-you-can-drink package marketed to college kids) – what I want on my vacation is pure relaxation, so it sounds perfect to me!

The thatched villas are distinctly Filipino “with a splash of modern amenities” (Wi-Fi, flat screen TVs, running water…)

Check out this free standing bathtub – it’s such a modern fixture to have in a villa don’t you think?!

Light, airy tunics perfect for lounging around or throwing over your swimwear: Calypso Sima Tunic, Allegra Hicks Iman Caftan, and DVF New Edie Mini Dress.

Each villa comes with its own pool (obviously)! This is a garden-view option…

And an ocean-view option… infinity pool AND whirlpool. Are you drooling yet?

These fun florals are kind of amazing. Resort attire, date-worthy, wedding season – who really needs an excuse? DVF Beach Tabalah Caftan, Tibi Silk Asymmetrical Maxi Dress, Tibi Silk Bandeau Dress.

Hopefully I’ll be able to share photos from where we’re actually staying in a few months, but until then… who’d like to enjoy me in dreaming?

Turquoise & Nude

wonderfelle — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 04:13:41 +0000

Since I gave up shopping for Lent, I’ve been making mental notes of things I really want to buy as soon as Easter comes around… Not on the list? More little black dresses, black work skirts, or black shoes. Enough is enough and wasting shopping funds on things I ALREADY HAVE just seems silly when there are a ton of other pretty things I could spend money on!

What is making the list? I’m still trying to narrow that down… but a couple things I definitely feel my closet is missing (NEED for spring!) are a turquoise bag and nude(ish) shoes.

I would love, LOVE the Balenciaga Arena Classic Day or really the Balenciaga City in Cyclade… but the Rebecca Minkoff Mini Nikki or Marc by Marc Jacobs Flash Leola Hobo (via Mandy of Life in the Fashion Lane) are both about half the price of the Balenciaga bags and still gorgeous!

I’m still looking for the perfect nude shoes as well – or really, more of a light-to-medium tan (thanks mom and dad for my inability to ever be pale) – I’m not sure that any of these are exactly what I’m looking for but I know I want a peep-toe platform, probably in a patent leather… Pictured are: Vera Wang Lavender Label Sherry Platform Pump, Kate Spade Glenda, Kate Spade Cammie, and Jessica Simpson Astor Pump.

Did anyone else give up shopping?! Even if you didn’t, what’s on your must-have list for spring?

One more thing on my list… a VACATION. Seriously. This girl needs sunshine and sand between her toes

Etsy Find Friday: Alexandra Grecco

wonderfelle — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 05:08:07 +0000

I’m a huge fan of the romper/jumpsuit/onesie especially of short and sassy variety… so when I came across Alexandra Grecco’s Etsy store I was immediately smitten.

Midnight Tea Onesie ($98)

How retro fabulous is this?? Also available here in teal.

Artaire Silk Onesie ($98) and Embellished Gingham Onesie ($72)

These definitely make me want to frolic in field! Not that I’ve ever done this, but I imagine this is what I’d want to wear during such an activity…

Pickford Onesie in Eyelet ($198)

This is my fave I think, vintage inspired eyelet + bows (and pockets!)… yes please.

Now if only spring would come around already so I had an excuse to wear any of these! Have a lovely weekend everyone… what are you up to? I’m looking forward to my new dining chairs arriving tomorrow (this is HUGE, no more sitting on the couch to eat!), a visit from our college buddy R, and checking out Eric Hilton’s newest reggae scene (I hear the jerk chicken is delish)!

Destination Inspiration: Grand Melia Hotel Colon

wonderfelle — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 02:43:10 +0000

I missed last week’s Destination Inspiration because I was too busy just being here… but I found this hotel a couple weeks ago while searching for some romantic travel packages for a Valentine’s inspired post and its too cool not to share. (and now that I’m practically settled, I’m dying for a vacation again!) The Gran Melia Colon luxury hotel in Seville combines contemporary furnishings with a nod to Roman antiquity and an underlying quirkiness. Perfect for a romantic getaway and even though V-day’s over, let’s just pretend…

Nanette Lepore Poison Love Dress in Rouge/Noir

red rosebud chairs in the lobby + a modern twist on a floral print + petals in the tub by candlelight

Jay Godfrey Chambers One Shoulder Dress Two Tier Skirt in White/Black/Arizona Tan

clean modern interiors + soothing neutral color palette + relaxing outdoor terrace (swoon)

Nanette Lepore Capture Me Dress in Black

horse lamp (?!) in the bar + textured print with visual layers + stunning neo-Baroque facade by night

Who would have thought that the lobby in the first photo would be found in the same hotel as pictured in the last photo?? The site describes the hotel as having “an aesthetic that finds meaning in contrast, playing historical reverence against a wry, modern wit.” Its such an eclectic mixture of design elements but it all seems to work together and that’s what I find most inspiring about this hotel! Not to mention, Seville is just stunning… quiero mucho!

My Style Monday: If You Were A Shoe…

wonderfelle — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 12:53:59 +0000

A few comments on this post last week inspired me to wonder what shoes other bloggers would chose to represent themselves and so I asked some of my favorite ladies, “what shoe would you be?” I am thrilled to share their responses with you because while each and every shoe is beautiful, they are all incredibly different as well!

Analiese of Tulips and Tea

Prada Espradille Wedges

“If I were a pair of shoes, I would be this pair of Prada espadrille wedges. Understated, yet elegant, these would lend an air of quiet sophistication to jeans yet pair just as beautifully with my favorite cobalt blue jersey knit dress. The earthy taupe color and graceful shape suggest an aura of organic simplicity.”

Bess of Style Sparkler

Christian Louboutin Glitter Pump in Fuxia

“If I were a shoe I would definitely be the Christian Louboutin Glitter Pump in Fuxia. My style is constantly changing but two things remain consistent: my love of glitter and the color pink. My go to outfit has always been classic dark jeans, a basic tee, and a really great heel!”

Christen of La Rue Neuve

Dries Van Noten High Heeled Sandals (Spring 2008)

“Dries is my all-time favorite designer. He isn’t too feminine, too urban or too ethnic but he uses all of these elements in his designs. This shoe embodies all of these. I love that there is an ankle strap making the high heel more comfortable. The beading is undeniably ethnic-inspired which is what I am most attracted to but the sparkle is eye-catching as well. I also like that they can be worn day or night. A great shoe, easy to wear and versatile? What else could a girl want?”

Erika of Cafe Fashionista

Frye Jane Stich Boot in Redwood

“I will admit that choosing my footwear counterpart sounded like a simple task; however, it was nothing of the sort. It wasn’t until I had weighed the value of everything from wedges to ballerinas that I came to the conclusion that, if I were a shoe, there is really no question about it… I would be Frye’s Jane Stitch in Redwood. While it lacks the sparkles, sequins, or imaginative, fairytale aesthetic so often associated with my personality; the Jane Stitch harbors a chameleon-like ability to weasel its way into any style situation, making them an ideal accompaniment to all ensembles – be it flirty frock in the summer or sinewy skinny jeans in the winter. Besides, they’re “a little bit country, a little bit rock ‘n’ roll.” Precisely the way I like to think of myself!”

Grace Like Kelly

Charles by Charles David “Spicy” Pump in Red

“I picked out a pair that I actually own, and when I was shopping with my friends they all saw it and said that’s so you… so it only seemed appropriate. If I were a shoe, I’d be “Spicy”, this shoe is sultry, feminine and playful all at the same time. It’s classy and accessible, like me.”

Jessica of Style Obsession

Prada Criss-Cross Sandal in Brown

“Unapologetically classic, yet unstuffy. Prada’s Criss-Cross Sandal epitomizes my style with its understated sophistication by day. But with a simple change of a dress, it can transform into something sexy and undeniably chic.”

Katy of Tangerine Hearts

Christian Louboutin Candy Lace & Satin Spike Pump in Black

“I chose this shoe because it has serious attitude but combines ultra feminine features like the bow and lace with toughness from the studs and zipper details. Just like this beautiful shoe I have a tough exterior but my girly side always shines through! It’s a classic shoe with a fierce twist and I love that!”

Kristin of BonBon Rose Girls

Carven Suede Pump in Black

“I would be these fabulous Carven pumps. The platform and strong heel make them sturdy enough for me to be able to carry the dude around without feeling like I was going to keel over and send us both tumbling, plus they would be equally at home with a sundress or jeans…my wardrobe staples!”

Thanks ladies! If you love their shoes, I’m sure you’ll love their blogs too For everyone else, what shoes would you be? It’s a fun idea to think about!

Outblush Guest Post!

wonderfelle — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 21:15:56 +0000

In a perfect world I’d really love to own the entire Miu Miu Spring 2010 collection of shoes… but unless someone decides to be reaaaally generous to me (or I win the lottery), this is never going to happen. While these might be the shoes that complete my life, I’m more than mildly obsessed with another pair that you will LOVE too (if you have great taste, of course). So head over to Outblush to see my Special Guest Post on some beauties that are perfect for Spring!