Sunday, May 29, 2011

A 99th Birthday Celebration: Grandpa Edmund

On the day of my grandpa's 99th birthday this past May 1st, he got ready to boogie down.  His children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, extended family and friends all came together to eat and be merry in celebration, but what we didn't expect was such a bangin' party!  Grandpa visited the dance floor (of the amazingly 80s restaurant ballroom) on several occasions, showing off great moves we didn't even know he had and provoking us to let loose with him.  At one point his cane became a prop which was being swung back and forth, à la the famous Mr. Peanut.

This photograph is one of my most favourite from that day.  In his prime growing up in Poland, my grandpa was a great skiier.  For his birthday gift, the grandchildren decided to enlarge, mount and frame his most prized personal portrait: himself as a handsome and vibrant young man holding his balance with two poles whilst kicking his skis high up in the air.  Upon unwrapping the gift, he proceeded to reminisce of the wacky old days when these tricks were second nature, and then he jokingly began to hop up with his cane, pretending to do the trick once more.  I still laugh thinking of this moment! 


For Grandpa Edmund's 100th birthday, I hope to organize a gallery exhibition of the many photographs he has taken over his lifetime.  My gramps began his lifeling career as a photographer in Poland in the 30s.  Photography is still his passion to this day, and even at 99 years old, his camera is often found strapped around his neck.   

Saturday, May 28, 2011

Biko Web Exclusive: SWEET SUMMER SOLSTICE

In anticipation of sweet sweltering days to come, we've got you covered with the perfect summer go-to piece.  You'll only find the Rock Crystal Necklace for $45 through the Biko online store.... it normally sells for $89!  Each slice of crystal is dipped in gold, and no two stones are alike. They each come strung on a sparkly brass ball chain with your choice of 26" or 32" lengths.  And don't wait too long: this deal runs only until the Summer Solstice (June 21st, the longest day of the year).


Special Sidenote: By the way, if you visit the Bicyclette Boutique booth (#368) at The Clothing Show this weekend, you'll be able to choose your very own Biko Rock Crystal Necklace in person (for $45)!   AFTER this weekend, it'll TRULY be available only via the Biko online store.

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It haunts me so
those summer nights
in dim lit homes

where music flows
and tempers flare
and lullabies fill the air

Monday, May 16, 2011

Still Life in Motion: Animated Gifs

I realize animated gifs have been flying around the web lately (again), but I couldn't help myself here.  I'm really inspired by these two images in particular, so I just had to post them.  Also, I saved these so long ago and I forgot to file their source... forgive me.  Enjoy!

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So beautiful and radiant.  Loving the subtle necklace movement too.
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Who doesn't love a levitating woman?  Especially one from the good old days.

Thursday, May 12, 2011

I want an Abici Bicycle

...Yes I really do.  I pretty much drool whenever I visit the Abici website, and I cannot wait for the day I have one of these babies to myself!

Abici bicycles are handmade in Italy, and are "simple and harmonious with... retro simplicity and hi-tech features... [making them] recognisable and pure".

As you may know by now, I'm a stickler for good branding/design, attention to detail and presentation.  These bikes have it all.  In addition to loving their logo, I really enjoy the evolution graphic found on the site's intro page.

My Abici model of choice is their Granturismo Donna, available in several gorgeous colours.  I still can't decide on which colour to go with, but it's a toss-up between the purple, olive, light blue... um, I think I'm about to list every colour.  I'll have to make up my mind upon seeing them all side-by-side in real life.



Thursday, May 5, 2011

Photography & Graphics Inspiration//Obsession

These images are many, but I must admit I'm obsessed with each and every one of them, and thus I cannot cut the list down any further. All images here are sourced from one of my new favourite photo blogs Forever Foxy, where you'll find links to the original image source.  Happy scrolling.
 




























Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Location Hunting: Metropolis Living

Although rainy and dreary, today was a very productive day.  I met with my graphics team (Karolina and Neil of The White Room) to brainstorm lookbook shoot ideas.  We became so location-inspired that we took our meeting on the road over to the Junction to scout some industrial chic backdrops. While we decided that this was NOT what we will end up with (final photoshoot location is currently a well-kept secret), we couldn't help ourselves in the awesome new Metropolis Living store.  I'm totally crazy about this new store, and will be paying a visit again very soon. 

Karolina inspects the tall industrial ruler (far left), which she and Neil bought!
We all fell in love with this black globe.... I'm still thinking about it...
Fun with vintage lettering!
So much to see.  I could spend hours in here.
Currently on the lookout for similar vintage glove forms, but smaller.
This sign/logo is my least favourite part of the store.