Sophisticated Spectra

An Artistic Leap: Anthony Vaccarello's Berlin Show with Saint Laurent

June 13, 2023 in Fashion & Style by Charlotte Sinclair

Anthony Vaccarello's most recent Saint Laurent men's show in Berlin painted an aesthetic tableau of exceptional tailoring, bare shoulders framed by delicate silk or chiffon sleeveless shirts, and a broad-shouldered silhouette. In the age of social media, hints of the show's direction were gleaned from Vaccarello's Instagram, even before the audience's planes had landed. A film clip from the 1950 French short film, Un Chant d’Amour, and the collection's title, "Each Man Kills the Things He Loves", gave followers a breadcrumb trail leading to the show's inspirations.

Luis Barragán's Casa Gilardi: A Modernist Masterpiece Rooted in Color

June 13, 2023 in Design & Décor by Julian Everett

In the heart of Mexico City, amidst a vibrant cityscape, stands a modernist gem from the 1970s that continues to captivate architects and design enthusiasts alike - Casa Gilardi. Designed by Luis Barragán, a leading figure in modernist architecture and the only Mexican to win the Pritzker Prize, the house is a testament to Barragán's innovative approach to space, light, and most notably, color.

Toby the Grey Dog: The Delightful Star of Stephen Hanson's Poster Series

June 19, 2023 in Photography & Visuals by Julian Everett

If you are a dog lover and a fan of beautiful, charming illustrations, then you're going to fall in love with the delightful poster series by British artist Stephen Hanson. The series spotlights Toby, an adorable grey dog who melts hearts and lightens moods with his captivating adventures.

Anticipating Key Trends in the Jacquemus Show: Hairstyles, Square-Toe Ballet Flats, and Bubble Micro-Skirts

June 20, 2023 in Fashion & Style by Julian Everett

As we eagerly await the Jacquemus show, some captivating style elements hint at what may be the focal points this season. From innovative hairdos to distinctive footwear and daring apparel, it's clear that the fashion house is pushing the boundaries once again.

Les Jardins d’Etretat: A Historic Restoration by Alexander Grivko

June 22, 2023 in Travel & Destinations by Charlotte Sinclair

Les Jardins d’Etretat is a remarkable garden nestled in the town of Étretat, Normandy. It was lovingly restored in 2016, on the site of the existing garden of the Villa Roxelane, which dates back to 1905. This restoration, covering an area of 1.5 hectares, was achieved in record time, less than a year and a half. The park's design was inspired by the first French oyster farm of Marie-Antoinette, located at the foot of the Étretat garden in the waters of La Manche. Today, Les Jardins d’Etretat is recognized as one of the "Great Gardens of the World".

"Acne Studios Spring 2024 Menswear Collection: A Grand Tour in Style"

June 22, 2023 in Fashion & Style by Julian Everett

Jonny Johansson, Acne Studios' creative director, embarked on a transformative Grand Tour, which inspired the Spring 2024 menswear collection. Johansson's journey to Venice last October wasn't just for the art, architecture, and Thomas Mann vibes; he aimed to examine the psychology behind changing one's attire when traveling, dressing differently to portray a different alter ego.

Globe-Trotter's Sweet Tribute: Winnie the Pooh Luggage Collection Celebrates Disney's Centennial

June 23, 2023 in Design & Décor by Julian Everett

Globe-Trotter, the British luxury luggage company, has unveiled a collection specially designed for the Japanese market, paying tribute to a beloved childhood icon. The launch coincides with Disney's 100-year anniversary and features the whimsical charm of none other than Winnie the Pooh.

Courant Sauvage: Luxury Beach Umbrellas for Perfect Summer Aesthetics

June 26, 2023 in Design & Décor by Charlotte Sinclair

In recent weeks, Sophisticated Spectra has been filling up with photos of branded beaches with bright sun loungers and umbrellas. The correct and photogenic selection of these items can significantly help a hotel (and, as we now understand, a fashion brand) in promoting on social networks. A good beach umbrella is expensive, and there are luxury players in this genre. One of them is the French manufacturer Courant Sauvage in Landes. The price for their umbrellas in fruit sorbet colors with thick fringe (immediately reminiscent of the luxurious resorts in Slim Aarons' photos) reaches up to €1000. The company works with suppliers of the best materials in their class, many of which are included in the list of France's Living Cultural Heritage. Courant Sauvage also accepts individual orders, although it is worth taking care of this not at the peak of the season.

Kim Kardashian West in Skims Faux Leather Collection by Steven Klein

June 27, 2023 in Models & Actresses Photos by Charlotte Sinclair

Kim Kardashian West is once again in the spotlight, this time for the campaign of her own brand, Skims. The campaign introduces Skims' faux leather collection and features Kardashian West herself.

Burberry's New Resort Collection by Daniel Lee: The Devil is in the Details

June 29, 2023 in Fashion & Style by Charlotte Sinclair

Burberry's creative director, Daniel Lee, has introduced a new resort collection that masterfully balances boldness with elegance. The collection presents an array of unique features that have never been seen before in the brand's repertoire.

Alexander McQueen Debuts Home Decor With Candle Collection

July 1, 2023 in Design & Décor by Julian Everett

Fashion house Alexander McQueen is venturing into the home decor market with the debut of a luxury candle collection. Made from black mineral wax, the collection reflects the brand's well-known affinity for balancing contrasts and pushing boundaries.

Anna Maria Ofstedal Eng's Sculptural Aluminum Table for Ferm Living Inspired by Natural Forms

July 4, 2023 in Design & Décor by Charlotte Sinclair

Anna Maria Ofstedal Eng has created a sculptural aluminum table for Danish brand Ferm Living.

Gentle Monster and D’heygere's Innovative Jewelry-Eyewear Capsule Collection

July 6, 2023 in Fashion & Style by Charlotte Sinclair

Fashion brands Gentle Monster and D’heygere have come together to push the boundaries of design and functionality with their latest capsule collection. The collaboration presents eyewear frames with an ingenious touch - they are adorned with elements from rings and stud earrings, blurring the line between accessory categories.

A Lighthouse Among The Dunes: The Transformation of Rubjerg Knude"

July 7, 2023 in Travel & Destinations by Julian Everett

Rubjerg Knude lighthouse, nestled amidst breathtaking dunes on the northwest coast of Denmark, has been given a new lease on life. The lighthouse suffered significant damage in 1968, with the landscape steadily eroding its structure and visibility over the decades. However, in a recent revitalization project, BESSARDs STUDIO and JAJA Architects have reimagined this historic landmark, transforming it into a breathtaking spectacle.

The Attico's Branded Beach in Ibiza: The New Apex of Fashionable Leisure

July 9, 2023 in Travel & Destinations by Charlotte Sinclair

The Attico, the Italian luxury fashion brand known for its avant-garde designs and high-profile collaborations, has once again pushed the boundaries of fashion branding. This time, they've taken their stylish influence to the shores of Ibiza, branding a beach with their signature aesthetic.

The Iconic Flame House of Dornach: A Testament to Rudolf Steiner's Vision

July 11, 2023 in Travel & Destinations by Charlotte Sinclair

In the tranquil town of Dornach, Switzerland, an architectural marvel stands as a testament to the multifaceted genius of Rudolf Steiner. This building, known as the Flame House, was erected in 1914 and is as much a source of intrigue today as it was over a century ago.

Kirsten Dunst Collaborates with Coach for Unique Collection

July 12, 2023 in Fashion & Style by Julian Everett

In an exciting and unexpected match, actress Kirsten Dunst and her brand Observed by Us are set to release a collaborative collection with Coach. The collection is teeming with the recognizable design aesthetics of Observed by Us, notably the drawings and illustrations by artist Jessica Herschko.

Kingston Custom Celebrates BMW Motorrad's 100th Anniversary with the Custom R 18 "The Crown"

July 13, 2023 in Design & Décor by Charlotte Sinclair

BMW Motorrad celebrates its centenary in grand style with a special custom version of the R 18 named "The Crown." The renowned German atelier Kingston Custom, led by Dirk Oehlerking, took the helm in creating this masterful two-wheeler.

American Pop Culture in the 1970s and the Aesthetics of Playboy Covers

July 15, 2023 in Photography & Visuals by Julian Everett

The 1970s in America was a time of immense cultural transformation. It was a decade marked by the birth of new music genres, the rise of a counterculture that challenged societal norms, the continuation of the civil rights movement, and the impactful emergence of feminism.