BIJOU LIVING

Jul 26, 2009

Jul 23, 2009

13 ways to be more Desireable

open a bottle of champagne without making it pop
iron your shirt
polish your shoes
get out of debt
cigarette butts are litter
daisies are not sexy
paper napkins are not acceptable
never show up at a dinner party empty handed
tell someone they're flying low, have stuff in their teeth or have toilet paper on the bottom of their shoe
Beethoven is sexy
barter at the flea market
never be the first to arrive and the last to leave
seduce someone in the kitchen (learn from the kitchen scene in 9 1/2 Weeks)

Design Lover: Pyrex 775X Flameware Coffee Percolator

vintage percolator coffee maker image Stacy Reynaud

Designed in 1952, the Pyrex 775X series of Flameware coffee percolators are an American mid-century icon. The percolators are made of glass and stainless steel and come in various sizes. The 775X percolator consists of a glass pot, glass cover, glass pump spindle tube, aluminum basket bottom and cover, and glass inner basket. A simple, beautiful and useful piece of design. Pictured above is my coveted 7759 B that I picked up at a charity shop in mint condition for $30. Don't be afraid to use your vintage Flameware percolator when you find it. **Note - your coffee will need to be ground extra coarse.

How long do you think it will take before Philippe Stark comes out with his version?

Related Posts:
Design Lover: Silvia Stave Modernist Cocktail Shaker
Design Lover: Hamilton Beach Juice Extractor
Design Lover: Charles Martin AD 11 Light

Jul 22, 2009

John Cage: Renaissance Man

The works of John Cage gave artists the permission to do anything they will - to break down the old and construct the new. To Cage, knowledge was limitless. He is praised by critics as a pioneer of electronic music and one the most influential American composers of the 20th century. Below is a piece entitled Dream (1948), written during what some refer to as his phase of 'Oriental quiescence'.

Jul 21, 2009

Vintage Calvin Klein

Calvin Klein

1982

Quote of the Week - Hardy Amies

Scarf wearers are born, not made.

Jul 16, 2009

Design Lover: Silvia Stave Modernist Cocktail Shaker

The story behind a piece can greatly influence the value.

For over sixty years, design enthusiasts incorrectly attributed this modernist cocktail shaker to the head of the Bauhaus metal workshop, Marianne Brandt. However, the original drawing for the piece surfaced and was confirmed, shortly before her death in 1994, by Swedish designer Silvia Stave to be hers.The piece also appears in the original 1930 catalogue for C.G. Hallberg, Stave's employer.

Stave is noted for her assured, serene, unbroken, and undecorated designs. Confident in her talent and understanding of the art of silversmithing, Gustav Hallberg quickly promoted Stave to Director of Design for Hallberg's. She went on to win an award at the 1937 Paris International Exhibition.

In 1996, an original of the above cocktail shaker sold at auction for $11,675 (price adjusted to 2009 currency rate).

Silvia Stave's modernist cocktail shaker has been reintroduced by Alessi. Available online.

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Design Lover: Fredrick Färg
Design Lover: The Bahaus Birdhouse

Jul 15, 2009

10 Things You Should Know About Desert Boots

The inspiration
Chupple Sandal and WW II Dutch Army Boot

the idea for the Desert Boot started taking shape during WWII when officers began having boots made for them in the markets of Cairo
the comfort of the boot was inspired by the moldable leather chupple worn by Indian troops on the North West frontier and admired by Western officers from the Western Desert visiting Burma
based loosely on the style of the Dutch voortrekker boot that was introduced to Western Desert warfare by the South Africa division of the Eighth Army
created on the original army boot last (the original wooden form used to shape the shoe) that provided comfortable footwear to the Eighth Army
created by Clarks in 1949 by bringing the moldability of the chupple together with the strength of the voortrekker boot and the comfort of the combat boot
first Clarks shoe to be marketed in America
over 12 million Clarks Desert Boots have been sold worldwide since their creation
the boot was launched at the Chicago Shoe Fair in 1950
construction of the Desert Boot has remained virtually unchanged since its inception
the Desert Boot celebrates its 60th anniversary this year

1950s Reissue

Jul 13, 2009

6 Different Ways to Tie a Shoe

Classic crisscross - outside, inside, outside and tighten from the bottom
Combination crisscross - an easier version of the classic. Outside, outside, outside and tighten by pulling laces.

Spaced crisscross - X-pattern eyelets in the center.
Horizontal lacing - Bring one end straight up to the top of the eyelet, lacing the other end in the desired effect.

Zigzag - one end straight up to the top of the eyelet, but the other end laces in a crisscross pattern.
Horizontal underlacing - outside down, inside up across, outside down.

Tips:

Experiment with shoes or boots with any number of eyelets.
Hint --> combat boots are fun.
Pull the laces up so the longer end is on the right. When you tie your bow, twist the longer end twice around the first loop before pulling it through.
Cotton laces tie better.

Vintage Missoni

Missoni
1984

Quote of the Week - Susan Sontag

Fashion becomes the discovery that anything is all right if worn by the right person. Susan Sontag

Jul 9, 2009

12 Do's and Don'ts for Dining Out

Don't

start eating before anyone else is served.
gesture with silverware.
lie to the waiter saying everything is okay when it is not.
snap your fingers for attention.
order for your partner unless they have given you permission.
lay anything on the table - including your phone.
order a vodka paralyzer before dinner.
talk to your menu - the waiter is beside you.
wear your running shoes and distressed denim unless you're at a concession stand.
get drunk.
hold your cutlery in a death grip.
settle for anything but the best.

give compliments where compliments are due.
fill out the comment form - management really does read them.
keep your voice down.
use your napkin often.
send your wine back if it is unacceptable.
tip 20%. More if the service is outstanding. The waiter has to share that tip with the bartender, bussers, host, kitchen staff, floor supervisor and management.
break off a small piece of bread, butter it and eat it. Don't butter the whole thing at once.
look the waiter in the eye.
place your napkin on your lap as soon as you sit down. When you're finished your meal use your napkin, fold it loosely and place it on the table.
pull the chair out for your female date, wait until she's seated then sit down. If this is too old fashioned for you at least wait until she takes her seat before you sit down. If you're out on business wait for the women to be seated then take your seat.
rise to shake someone's hand if you are introduced.
get your bearings straight on manoeuvring a typical table setting.

Jul 8, 2009

Design Lover: Harry Bertoia Bird Chair

Harry Bertoia won his first award (a scholarship) in 1932 at the age of seventeen. Yet another scholarship followed which enabled him to study at Eliel Saarinen's design school, the Cranbrook Academy of Art. The accolades continued throughout Bertoia's career. He was awarded the American "Designer of the Year" (1955), a Certificate of Merit, from the American Institute of Architects, the AIA Craftsmanship Award (1956), the Gold Medal from the Architectural League of New York (1955-56) , the Design Center Stuttgart Award from West Germany (1962), the Fine Arts Medal from the Pennsylvania Association of the American Institute of Architects (1963), the AIA's Critic's Award (1968), and an honorary doctorate from Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania (1976).

Bertoia worked briefly with Charles and Ray Eames and collaborated with Florence and Hans Knoll. It was while working with the Knoll's that Bertoia developed the iconic Bird chair and ottoman. Made from molded chromium-plated steel wire, the chairs are still being made and marketed by Knoll today. There are variations on the basic model but the original design has not changed much. Like all classics, it is what it has always been.

Dimensions:
Bertoia Bird Chair: 40.25" H x 38.5" x 33" D
Bertoia Ottoman: 14.5" x 23.5" W x 17.25" D
Available online at Knoll.

Related Posts:
Design Lover: Mariano Fortuny Desk Lamp
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Jul 7, 2009

How to Paint Your Front Door

Next to the mantle piece, the front door is probably one of the most popular backdrops for family photos. It is also the first impression your home makes on visitors and passersby. I like to think of the front door as the gate keeper that both guards and greets. Sprucing up your front door can be an economical way to add some zest to your home or, don't make me say it -> curb appeal.

Some things to consider when planning for your front door redo:

give your door its own special character such as, but not limited to, a contrasting colored trim, French tile numbers, or a brass lion's head knocker
bushes, plants or vines such as honeysuckle not only add a welcoming scent but also soften any imposing lines leading to your door
your door should be of the same period or style as your home
if your front door is actually on the side or around the back, a path, canopy or entrance courtyard indicate this is the way to the main entrance
your front door is an extension of you and your family. It welcomes visitors into the home you've created out of a house.

A selection of front doors from Vancouver's West End:

Jul 6, 2009

1989 Went back to the future with Nissan Figaro

I grew up in a body shop. My father restored Camaros, Corvettes, T-Birds, 57 Chevys, you name it. When we spotted this car we were both curious. Initially, we thought it was a vintage Italian model but the rear brake light and window markings convinced us otherwise.

Nissan Figaros were a limited edition coupe (20,000) produced for Japan's domestic market in 1991. The Figaro came in four 'jewel' colors, each representing a season. The model here is Emerald Green (Spring). The other 'jewel' colors were Pale Aqua, Lapis Grey and Topaz Mist (the rarest).

The Figaro was designed by Shoji Takahashi for the 1989 Tokyo Motor Show under the slogan 'Back to the Future'.

As for speed, let's say the Figaro is a perfect car for motoring around the city. Fuel economy 7.4 L/100 km. Fuel capacity 40 L (11 US gal.; 9 imp gal). 3 speed automatic transmission.

A sliding soft top is standard on the Figaro, as is extremely water repellent paint and white leather interior.

Eric Clapton's Figaro is for sale.

For more information on the Figaro check:
Figaro Cars Are Us
Figaro Owners' Site

Versace Men 1992

Versace
1992

Quote of the Week - Christian Dior

Individuality will be always one of the conditions of real elegance. Christian Dior

Jul 2, 2009

How to Choose Eye Glass Frames for Your Face Shape

Eye glasses have been a celebrated fashion accessory for men since the late 1950s - think of iconic photos of Yves Saint Laurent, Buddy Holly, Woody Allen or John Lennon. As of late, the trend in eyeglasses has moved from the inconspicuous frameless glasses to the obvious, bold frames with oversize lenses. There are wire frames and heavy frames in oval, round, hexagonal, octagonal, square or what have you. Find a pair that proportionally suits your face, like you would a hat, and the frame will flatter your positive facial features. Think of the image or look you want to create for yourself.

Round face - angular frames
Square face - long narrow frames
Diamond face - wide wire frames
Oval face - you're perfect go for anything
Large face - large frames
Small face - small frames
Large nose - heavy dark frames
Dark circles/wrinkles - heavy substantial frames

Vintage Yves Saint Laurent

Yves Saint Laurent

1980

Related Posts: Style Quiz 1 Style Quiz 2 Style Quiz 3

Jun 30, 2009

Sheila White - The Mysterious West Coast Potter

I came across Sheila White's ceramic sculptures by way of John David Lawrence, proprietor of DODA Antiques in Vancouver, British Columbia. The only pieces I have seen of White's are of birds such as owls and robins. All the pieces are heavily textured, simple and beautiful.

collection of Stacy Reynaud

I've searched for information on Sheila White but have come up empty handed. I am assuming that she was a student of Thomas Kakinuma at the UBC Extension Department between 1955 - 1968. The pieces I own are marked with White's stamp and one has Kakinuma written in ink.

Her work is highly regarded among collectors of BC Pottery. Watch for it.

Related Posts:
Thomas Kakinuma
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How to Remove Wine Stains and Other Delicacies

Many delicacies we enjoy, such as wine, pomegranates, coffee, strawberries, pecans and chocolate can leave behind a stain reminisce of a random tattoo from some lost night in Vegas. You can lay blame on the tannin found in each.

Absorb stains before they set by using the tip of a white paper towel to soak up excess liquid. Never scrub or press with the towel, this will ruin the fabric's texture. If your garment reads DRY CLEAN ONLY do not try to remove the stain yourself - take it promptly to your cleaner.

If your garment is machine washable try the following to remove the stains left behind by the delicacies above:

Absorb excess liquid with a white cloth or paper towel
Soak the garment in cool water
Put detergent and white vinegar on the stain
Wash out thoroughly with water
Air dry

If the stain persists, wash the garment with detergent and appropriate amount of bleach in the hottest water the garment can withstand.

Jun 29, 2009

Trends - Terrariums

Ace Hotel Portland
stacy reynaud

... and miniature gardens.

Landscaping on a Lilliputian scale provides a unique method for indoor gardening in smaller bijou living spaces. Made popular in the Victorian times (then known as Wardian Cases after an accidental discovery by the surgeon Dr. Nathaniel Ward), the terrarium garden offers an inexpensive way for both the beginner and expert gardener to express their green thumb while evoking curiosity and conversation from viewers. Try the style in your small living space.

Quote of the Week - Oscar Wilde

We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars.
Oscar Wilde

Quote of the Week - Albert Einstein

5 Best Ways To Make a Good First Impression

A dark colored, well tailored blazer
You can spend $200 or $2000 on a blazer but if it doesn't fit properly you'll look like a buck fifty.
The man 5'9" and under should go for the short. Your blazer shouldn't look like a tunic.
Although sized according to chest, the blazer should fit properly in the shoulders. If you can see your deltoids it's too small.
The old adage is, if a man wants one jacket in his lifetime make it a dark blue blazer.

A good haircut
Find a stylist that knows you and your style. My husband pays more for a haircut than I do. His justification is that if he went to another stylist, he'd look like a cheap used car salesman with a comb-over. Seeing as your partner should complement you when you're out together I'm willing to hold off on a pedi to keep him looking and feeling sexy. You may not notice it but glances go straight from your face right to your shoes. Which brings us to our next point:

The finest quality shoes
Your shoes should be the most expensive, highly crafted piece you're wearing. Good shoes can make an inexpensive outfit look like a million bucks. Black wing tips like those by Salvatore Ferragamo, Tom Ford or Ermenegildo Zegna are safe and timeless.

A classic watch
The wrist is an area for chic understatement. Don't be too aggressive or too skimpy. Some recommend building your watch collection to mix with your wardrobe. To start, go for a classic in steel, silver or white gold like a vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual, Van Cleef & Arpels Latérale or a classic Timex Mercury.

Proper pants (including denim)
By 'proper' I mean those that suit your body type. Not everyone can wear skinny jeans or drain pipe trousers. If you're tall, stay away from pinstripes. If you're short, choose pants in dark fabrics. Most importantly make sure your pants are hemmed properly: Pant Hems - What You Need to Know

Related Posts:
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Pant Hems: What You Need to Know
How to Tie a Skinny Tie

Jun 28, 2009

Glass Plates Reborn: Digichromatography

Ural Owls - 1910
Sergei Mikhailovich Prokudin-Gorskii

from the author's personal collection

Russian photographer to Tsar Nicholas II, Sergei Mikhailovich Prokudin-Gorskii, captured black and white images on glass plate negatives using red, green and blue filters. He then presented the images in color using a light projection system and the same three filters. Thanks to digital technology and a process called digichromatography we are now able to view Prokudin-Gorskii's glass slides in brilliant color, the way he intended them to be. In layman's terms digichromatography involves scanning the glass negative then editing it with image editing software. Grayscale becomes RGB, layering and cropping are tackled and finally any retouching of the image is completed. That is a very brief primary explanation. Please see the full details here.

Jun 25, 2009

Style Inspiration: François Truffaut

French filmmaker François Truffaut

1932 - 1984

Jun 24, 2009

Vintage Gianni Versace

Gianni Versace

1980

Jun 23, 2009

Design Lover: Hamilton Beach Juice Extractor 932

For 69 years, the Hamilton Beach Juice Extractor Model 932 has been the main squeeze on the countertops of discerning chefs, bartenders, and juice devotees.

It refuses to be squeezed out by the competition.

Patented a year after the disbandment of Bauhaus in 1933, the influence of the school is reflected in the 932's streamlined design and superior craftsmanship - it's known to last a lifetime.

The extractor's rack-and-pinion gearing can exert up to 2000 lbs of pressure, ensuring fresh juice without the pulp.

A classic appliance that's easy to use, good-looking and durable.

Jun 22, 2009

Quote of the Week - Le Corbusier

Talent is not enough if it cannot be backed by strong character.
Le Corbusier