laBerlina

the sound of summer

2010-07-18T11:42:00.010+02:00

I have yet to meet someone who genuinely flat-out does not like music. It connects people, helps us through tough times and quickens us when emotions are soaring.

Connected to the latter is the well-known phenomenon of striving for "the perfect holiday soundtrack", which generally hits sometime in the sunny months of June and August.

In the past years, I've put endless efforts into assembling a playlist that is of a light and stimulative nature, works both by the poolside and during longer car rides and reminds me of fun and carefree days with friends without being distinctly associated with previous events or travels. This year, in line with my newfound hang loose-attitude, I've decided to skip endless hours of record sampling and found someone else to do it for me:

The people at RCRD LBL (free MP3 a day, anyone?) have teamed up with Saludos and produced the ultimate summer holiday mix cd. Available as a free download, Cheers to the Summer: 2010 Summer Soundtrack includes tracks by Mishka, The Like, Femi Kuti, White Denim, The Drums and many others. Simply enter your email address, and you will receive the compilation as a .zip file, which can easily be copied into an empty playlist folder in the music player of your choice.

I'm already hooked to my new favourite summer track: The Sunshine Song by The Candle Thieves. Don't miss out on this grand opportunity to lay your hands on free music NOW!

PS: If you don't feel like sharing your email address, you can also stream the playlist online.

(all images by Soludos/RCRD LBL Cheers to the Summer)

.HBC Couture - Designer Scouts II

2010-07-11T19:18:00.011+02:00

Originally determined to skip Berlin Fashion Week as a whole (courtesy of the blazing heat that Berlin seems to be blessed with these days), only the Designer Scouts event at .HBC could lure me out of my air-conditioned appartment, dressed to the nines and ready for four hours of fashion, music, drinks and good conversation.

Here's the short film of the shows which I shot and edited:

(click here for higher resolution and better quality)

*For more photos of the event, check out the official Designer Scouts website. You might also be interested in my post on the previous show which took place in January.

travelettes flea market

2010-07-06T14:53:00.012+02:00

Berlin is known for it's variety of Sunday morning flea markets and the hidden treasures that can be found at these. Mauerpark, Boxhagener Platz, Neukölln: no tourist goes back home without having obtained a little something to show off to friends and family (What, a 10€ handsigned Iggy Pop vinyl AND Levi's denim cut-offs for just 2€?).

Last Sunday however, there was an addition to the classic Berlin flea market repertoire: the 1st Travelettes.net flea market, themed Holiday. Since Travelettes is an online travel magazine/blog for girls, only ladies planning a trip in the near future could participate and sell their stuff. With a 1-month surfing trip throughout Europe lined up for myself, I was slightly intimidated by the rest of the sellers, many of which were planning to explore Australia, India or Thailand.

Nevertheless, it turned out to be an incredibly pleasant day. Katja Hentschel, journalist and mastermind behind the entire function, did not only provide the perfect holiday playlist to set the mood, but also supplied us with enough coffee and snacks to last the day. Visitors were able to browse through heaps and heaps of vintage clothing and shoes, self-made jewelry and accessories, as well as enjoy cold drinks at the bar or receive a 1€ manicure at the door.

Thanks to the enormous amount of positive feedback, there may be another flea market at the end of August - so keep your eyes open!

More photos and video can be found on the Travelettes website.

sideseeing berlin: take a stroll

2010-06-04T12:55:00.002+02:00

Who's in for a little fashion, art and music this sunday? Sideseeing is an open air market/fair comprised of numerous stalls selling self-made jewelry, fashion and design items by local designers. It's known for attracting a colourful crowd of people, delicious refreshments and an entertainment programme that's just as awesome as the items for sale ;)

Come and check it out! This Sunday, 13:ooh - 2o:ooh at Maybachufer Neukölln (more info on the sideseeing website).

MELT! picknick

2010-05-30T11:23:00.003+02:00

As I'm typing these lines, a mere 140km away from Berlin in the city of steel Ferropolis (near Dessau), Melt! resident DJ Markus Welby is already serving the first course of finest electro tunes. The musical banquet that Melt! Picknick rightfully can be described as will continue with Simina Grigoriu, a brunette bombshell who happens to double as first-class techno DJ and producer. And if the weather permits and (the predicted) heavy rainfall doesn't bust the party, these phenomenal acts will be followed by none other than Fritz Zander, Fritz Kalkbrenner and Robag Whrume. The grand finale a.k.a the cherry on top of this electronic feast will be a live set by the great Paul Kalkbrenner. Ever since Berlin Calling, this Berlin-based DJ has created a name (or shall we say legend?) for himself even outside the spheres of electronic music and Berlin underground parties, and made his way into mainstream. Whether that's desireable or not remains questionable, his bank account is certainly thanking him.

And while I'm sitting here in Berlin, receiving text message updates about the awesomeness of Melt! picknick by friends and secretly wishing that it would start raining so I'd have at least one teensie reason to be glad about getting stuck in Berlin (for personal reasons), I'll definitely round up a few photographic and video impressions post-picknick to share with you what we may have missed out on.

Ps. It just started raining cats and dogs...

tonight! don't miss out!

2010-05-21T19:19:00.003+02:00

the sunny side of life

2010-05-20T19:47:00.011+02:00

"We start to party when others go to bed!" a Norwegian tourist proudly proclaimed last weekend, leaning against the bar at Zur Möbelfabrik, sucking on his Vodka Lemon and feeling oh so Berlin. I daresay it's not very unconventional to begin a night by catching the last S-Bahn (during the week) or running into a Kaiser's supermarket just before it closes at 24:00h to stock up on whatever will last you through the night. What many visitors and tourists are unaware of, however, is that here in Berlin we don't wait until the sun goes down to have a good time.

Especially in the summer time, all sorts of festivities and celebrations draw crowds of young and old to the streets of Berlin. The first of May - traditionally a day of street riots and political protests - nowadays also encompasses street fairs and open-air parties all throughout Kreuzberg and the Wrangelkiez. This year, one could enjoy some fine electro tunes in front of Luzia (Oranienstraße) and around the Spreewaldplatz (Görlitzer Park).

Last fall, 350 participants attended an anti-climate change demonstration which doubled as a silent rave party throughout the streets of Berlin-Mitte. While political activism and environmental consciousness stood at the forefront of this event, the tunes of legendary Dr. Motte and Dj Dirty Doehring (Bar 25) caused every electro-loving Berliner's heart to skip a beat.

Among the annual Karneval der Kulturen and Bergmannstraßenfest (which are coming up this and next weekend), there's a bunch of low-key and semi-secret rave parties taking place in and around Berlin all throughout the summer. To figure out the when&where, keep a lookout on the internet (Facebook; Berlin-based blogs such as IHeartBerlin.de) ...or simply ask one of the many hipsters milling around Görlitzer Park ;)

Having said that, I would like add that these parties rarely end when the sun sets... so even if you prefer spending the daytime hours in bed (and can actually afford to do so), you won't miss out!

what summer is all about...

2010-05-18T13:54:00.002+02:00

this one's for all the ladies out there...

2010-05-18T12:55:00.005+02:00

"He who moves not forward, goes backward" (J.W. v. Goethe)

:
I probably don't need to lecture anyone on the profundity of Goethe's thoughts, although I would like to point out how applicable these can be to our personal life from time to time. I started to give free reign to my thoughts and creativity here at la Berlina little over a year ago and only recently decided that it was time to try something new, something different. In a flash of inspiration, I wrote a piece entitled "The 101 on Open-Air Festivals", which - to my great delight - was published on travelettes.net only hours later.

Launched by the Berlin-based globetrotting photographer and journalist Katja Hentschel, Travelettes is an online travel magazine/blog aimed specifically at the needs and interests of female travellers. It's the place to read about local fashion trends and insider's shopping tips, get the low-down on cheap accomodation and good eats, and figure out when and where to party - and with whom. Whether you're looking for advice on how to score super-cheap flights or how to pack light (for real!), a travelette may just have the answers you are looking for!

"The travelette gets a manicure on Monday and Tuesday will go off to hike in the Himalaya. She does not conform to conventions and thinks Paris Fashion Week is just as exiting as stomping through the Amazon rain forest in rubber boots. She worries about matching colors but laughs off mosquito bites." (travelettes.net)

I've been avidly reading the articles on travelettes.net even before I started contributing myself, and have come across a number of helpful pointers - the latest being Jaclyn's series of posts on couch surfing (see here and here).

Without further ado, I recommend you check it out and, if you share our love for travelling/journalism/photography, consider contributing yourself!

melt! klub weekender: LCD Soundsystem à Berlin

2010-05-17T13:15:00.011+02:00

Anyone still convinced that all Germany has to offer is bratwurst and beer has clearly never been around long enough to experience what its really like around here. Another common misconception amongst travellers is that the only place to have fun in Germany is in larger cities like Munich, Hamburg and of course BERLIN. Au contraire: especially if you're considering to stop by during the summer, it might of interest to check out one of the many open air music festivals traditionally located in smaller towns and villages.

A true gem of the German festival scenery is the Melt! festival, which takes place annually in Ferropolis, the "city of steel" (near Dessau, Germany). The lineup for Melt! 2010 (July 16 -18) is no less impressive than that of the past 12 years. Among popular indie rock acts such as The XX, Miike Snow, Bonaparte, Johnossi and Two Door Cinema Club, a multitude of legendary DJ acts will heat up the crowd (can you spell Booka Shade, Tiefschwarz or C-R-O-O-K-E-R-S?). If you're still not convinced, check out the entire line-up here.

Anyone unwilling to leave the comfort of good old Berlin for some good music and Melt! atmosphere had the opportunity to check out the Melt! Klub Weekender, which took place May 6 -8 smack in the city centre. After performances by "Errors" and "Yacht", no other than LCD SOUNDSYSTEM took the stage and played an incredible (almost) 2 hour set. Walking home that night with the 1/2 drum stick that hit me during the Errors set and humming "New York I love you, but you're bringing me down", I knew the 20€ for a Melt!Klub day-pass was money very well spent.

stage jam-packed with equipment

Errors frontman Simon Ward
LCD Soundsystem

happy birthday ♥

2010-05-04T20:24:00.007+02:00

When I wrote my first post for laBerlina a year ago, I had no idea what I was getting myself into. No idea about the press accreditation I would soon receive for all kinds of events in and around Berlin. No idea about the after-show parties I'd attend and the contacts I'd make there. No idea about the sweetness of Fashion Week and goodie bags and getting to see Berlinale films for free. No idea about the video I would shoot of a Silent Climate Rave here in Berlin that would spread across the internet in no time. In short: I hadn't yet realized that I could apply my love for writing, photography and artistic production and create something that other people considered interesting and worth reading.

Thus, I extend my utmost thanks and gratitude towards everyone that's supported me along the way. A big thanks goes to my family and friends for encouraging and inspiring me. Another thank you to all of the PR assistants and event planners who gave me a shot by putting me on their guest lists. But most importantly: a big fat thank you to everyone that actually takes the time to read the mess I create around here! I have received a lot of wonderful feedback from friends and friends' friends around the globe - merci beaucoup!

I haven't been posting for a while, mainly because I was preparing for important exams and because I've become involved in another project, Travelettes.net, which I will make sure to introduce more thoroughly soon. With exams and stress behind me and a wonderful summer ahead, I can't wait to start writing again regularely.

With that in mind, muchas gracias para todo y hasta pronto!

H A I R.

2010-03-20T16:27:00.002+01:00

Hi Barbie!
Lily Donaldson, shot by Matthew Donaldson

darling, i think there's a chinese family standing in our bathroom.

2010-03-14T19:32:00.001+01:00

"Florals are for middle-aged women with weight problems."

2010-03-10T19:35:00.012+01:00

There are few designers that have influenced the fashion industry to the extent that Karl Lagerfeld has. Thus, reading the above statement on his twitter a few months back almost made me re-consider last year's spring break purchase, a floral dress I bought during my stay in beautiful Vienna. Then, however, I decided that even a creative genius like Mr. Lagerfeld can be wrong every once in a while ;)

And since yesterday was one of the first sunny and not-so-freezing days here in Berlin, I decided to be "brave" and take my baby for a walk around town...

you be my matt, i'll be your kim.

2010-03-05T20:26:00.006+01:00

Thanks to Last.fm, I have discovered many brilliant artists which otherwise may have remained unknown to me for a long, long time. Today, one of the site's suggestions to me was Matt&Kim, a musical duo from Brookly, New York. Check out their fantastic song (and corresponding video), Daylight. It's been stuck in my head all day...

be there or be square.

2010-03-01T19:06:00.003+01:00

because they are all so cute i want to put them in my pocket.

2010-03-01T18:58:00.001+01:00

culinary cinema

2010-03-01T17:28:00.011+01:00

As a kid, I repeatedly refused to try peanut butter & jelly sandwiches because I was convinced that there could be no way two so seemingly different things could go well together. Imagine how distraught I was when, at the age of 14, I reluctantly had a tiny bite of my sister's pb&j sandwich... and realized I had just tasted one of the best snacks of all time!

I share this anecdote because I firmly believe that some facts exist simply to be proven wrong. Like the fact that when you go to the movies, you should eat popcorn. Or nachos with cheese dip. And lots of candy on the side. I remember various instances at which I exited the cinema feeling like a junkfood wastebasket, not at all content with myself. Little did I know that one day, I would be introduced to the concept of 'culinary cinema'.

The idea is simple: participants first attend the private screening of a selected film, which is preceded by introductory words of the film's director. Afterwards, they take part in a group lunch (or dinner), which is prepared to match and reflect the previously seen film.

My friends and I went to see The Rainbow Warriors of Waiheke Island, a documentary by the dutch film maker Suzanne Raes. The movie tells the story of a group of first-generation Greenpeace activists, who set sail on an old barge with the intention of protecting mother earth from the dangers of nuclear waste transports, whale hunting and other risky businesses. Scene snippets from old Greenpeace film archives are contrasted with coverage of the former crew member's live's today. The focus of the film lies not only on an accurate depiction of the activists' lifestyle in the seventies and eighties, but also on the detonation of two bombs in 1985 which had been placed on the ship by french secret service agents, destroying the vessel and killing a crew member.

After seeing The Rainbow Warriors of Waiheke Island, we enjoyed a meal prepared by Wam Kat, peace activist and former crew member of the Rainbow Warrior himself! Although his days of sailing the seas are over, Wam Kat is still a vehement peace activist. He works as a cook at political protests and demonstrations around the world, and has recently publish a book entitled 24 Rezepte zur Kulinarischen Weltverbesserung (recipes for improving the world through culinary means). Subsequently, the 3-course menue which he prepared for us consisted entirely of vegan and wholefood products. My personal favourite: vegan apple crumble. Hmmmm!

.Q & A session with Raes and Wam Kat

99fire film award ceremony: review

2010-02-24T17:49:00.011+01:00

"I was just in it for the thrill, the concept is so unique" one of the contestants told me at last week's 99fire films awards ceremony in the Berliner Admiralspalast. Admittedly, he did look very snug: suited up, free drink in hand, and surrounded by prominent figures of the German TV- and film industry. Probably a little more exciting than the average German twenty-something's Thursday night...

The grand prize of 9.999€ went to Sofia Bavas and her crew for their film "Zinkowski - Gegen den Rost der Welt". Further awards were given out in the category "Best Camera" and "Best Idea". All winning submissions can be viewed on the 99fire films website.

Bavas and her crew receiving their award from German actress Bettina Zimmermann.

filmtastic.

2010-02-24T16:42:00.007+01:00

It's times like the Berlinale when you wish the day had 48 hours and things like school and work didn't exist: a world in which all you had to do was sit back in the red velvet seats of a cinema, armed with pocorn and ready to enjoy the screening of yet another brilliant film.

Sadly, this dream world is as far away from my reality as it could possibly be at this point in time. Final exams are inching closer and closer, and leisure has become I vaguely remember from Christmas break. But - enough with the whining, life is too short to waste it with complaints and self-pity! That in mind, I ventured out of the coziness of my apartment and into the snowy city to see what this year's Berlinale had to offer.

Apart from attracting esteemed figures of the international film industry, the Berlinale also serves as a great platform for up-and-coming film makers. I was able to watch Zona Sur (directed by Juan Carlos Valdivia), the first Bolivian film ever to be part of the Berlinale. While Zona Sur has already been screened at various international film festivals and can boast a number of award nominations, hispanic cinema remains underrepresented in our culture - which is a shame, considering the masterpiece that Zona Sur can rightfully be described as. I shy away from trying to summarize and analyze the film, since it's images and dialogues speak far louder than the written word can.

To find out more about the film, visit the official website.

maybe i should open up a bakery?

2010-02-14T19:35:00.001+01:00

breakfast in new york

2010-02-13T16:58:00.000+01:00

99 seconds...

2010-02-11T20:52:00.008+01:00

... isn't a lot of time. Barely enough to eat a Snickers bar, and not even close to the time it takes for my internet browser to open after I restart my computer. 99 seconds can pass so quickly, unnoticed and insignificant.

Sometimes, however, 99 seconds is more than enough time. Take the 99 fire films award, for example. It was created in 2009 and serves as a platform for everyone willing to dive into the creative pool of film making. Amateur directors and film fanatics are just as welcome as anybody else to register online and participate in the competition.

This year's registration is already closed - and time has run out! Competitors had exactly 99 hours to produce a short film on a specific topic, which has yet to be revealed. Nine lucky finalists will present their work at the official awards ceremony in the Admiralspalast Berlin on Thursday, Feburary 18th. The winner of the 99 fire films award will then receive the prize of - you guessed it - 9.999€. Further prizes will be awarded in the categories 'best camera' and 'best idea'.

Screenshots of the winning submission of 2009, "Schlafstörung":

This event is running simultaneously to the Berlinale, Berlin's international film festival, which I will soon be reporting back from - so keep comin' back for more ;)

when i cruise the streets of berlin, they are filled with music

2010-02-03T20:05:00.005+01:00

soul food

2010-02-03T18:08:00.014+01:00

Previous to my first culinary experience at Satyam, I had associated Indian cuisine with chicken tikka masala, mutton madra and a lot of bathura (baloon-shaped fried bread). Today, I stand corrected. Indian cuisine by no means needs to include some form of meat to be rich in taste. In fact, all of the dishes offered at Satyam are strictly vegetarian and organic and can be prepared vegan upon request. The menue includes soups, salads, tofu and vegetable dishes, and specialties from southern India.

However, eating out at Satyam is more than just a treat for the tastebuds. Before placing their order, customers are invited to take a simple multiple-choice test, thus defining their Dosha-type. Upon learning which of the three elements of Ayurveda they match most closely, guests may also order from the special Ayurveda menue.

Most notable about this restaurant are quite frankly the staff and the kindness with which customers are treated. You can expect complimentary chapatti and extensive assistance in choosing from the menue, should you need any. The ayurvedic mindset conveyed at Satyam is very sincere. Upon delivering our compliments to the chef, the latter responded, "the food will always taste good if it is consumed by kind and polite people". Delicious food and a feel-good atmosphere - what more could one ask for?

Satyam is open daily, from 11:30h - 24:00h. It is located on Goethestraße 5/ Ecke Knesebeckstraße, 10623 Berlin. Main dishes around €7. For more information, simply stop by or have a look at the website.

stop motion sensation

2010-02-01T15:03:00.007+01:00

I hadn't heard of Oren Lavie until my good friend Jacob messaged me the link to this video, accompanied with the words "why can I see you doing something like this?". It's good to know that I have friends who know me quite well, because I developed an instant liking for Lavie's work upon watching Her Morning Elegance.

A quick Myspace search (yes- some people still have Myspace...) revealed that Oren Lavie not only works as a singer/songwriter and director, but also as a playwright and "writer of funny books for sad children". Lavie further discloses that he often daydreams, almost always has cold feet and "enjoys squeezing big worlds into small spaces". Her Morning Elegance is the first single release of Lavie's debut album The Opposite Side of the Sea and was recently nominated for a 2010 Grammy Award in the "Best Short Form Music Video" category.

For more information and a few fun facts about the video production, have a look at Lavie's Myspace blog or his web site.

fake freckles

2010-02-01T13:18:00.007+01:00

Spotted on the runway for Tillmann Lauterbach, Mens Fashion Week in Paris. As seen in the film "Männer mit Make-Up" by Nathalie Weiss, the freckles were airbrushed on with a self-made stencil. Makes me wish it was summer again!

take the A-TRANE

2010-01-31T14:07:00.008+01:00

There are few things you can do on a Saturday night out with the family that involve getting home at 2:30 am. Apparently, hitting Berlin's best jazz club is one of them.

Last night, the A-trane was filled to the brim with jazz lovers anticipating the performance of Torsten Goods, one of Germany's leading young jazz guitarists. Goods can boast an impressive resumée despite his mere 28 years of age. During his studies, which he completed at the renowned New School University in NYC, Goods played with and learned from the likes of John Scofield, Jack Wilkins, Mike Stern, Peter Bernstein, Howard Alden, Frank Vignola and Les Paul. He was the only European finalist in the "Thelonious Monk Jazz Guitar Competition" in Washington (2005) and has performed throughout Europe, Asia and the USA. As one of his biggest musical influences, Torsten Goods names the Grammy Award-winning American jazz musician George Benson, who also inspired Goods to sing along to his songs.

Instead of simply promoting his newest album "1980", the much-acclaimed jazz musician and his band presented a musical potpourri of jazz classics. Despite the dazzling effect that his silky-smooth vocals and virtuosic guitar playing had on the audience, Torsten Goods did not claim the limelight. He left plenty of opportunities for his band members to impress equally as much. The on-stage communication between Goods, Olaf Polziehn (piano), Christian von Kaphengst (bass) and Martijn Vink (drums) further illustrated how good live performances are the product of mutual respect, passion for music and of course, talent.

Surprise guest of the night: the much celebrated German trumpet player Till Brönner. While tickets to one of Brönner's concerts may internationally be priced at $40 or more, it is not uncommon for him to spontaneously stop by the A-trane for an on-stage jam session. Welcome to Berlin, baby!

top- Torsten Goods and band; bottom- surprise guest Till Brönner

berlin is a snowy mess right now

2010-01-28T18:07:00.003+01:00

(image courtesy of gruntpig on flickr.com)

my friend tenzin...

2010-01-28T17:41:00.007+01:00

... has an incredibly good taste in music. Every now and then, he sends me links to new music videos on Youtube. And every now and then, I am amazed.

In this particular case, I have to admit I was already a big fan of the Cold War Kids when they released their first album Robbers & Cowards in 2006. Now, the boys are back with their newest EP, Behave Yourself. Thanks to Tenzin, I'm currently hooked on Audience, one of the songs off the record. Not only is it an absolutely catchy tune, the music video is incredible. Enough with the talking - see for yourself:

Michalsky, Lala Berlin and Kaviar Gauche

2010-01-25T21:10:00.014+01:00

Fashion Week the 3rd: Friday's Michalsky Style Nite was yet another event which took place outside the Mercedes-Benz tent on Bebelplatz. While Michalsky, Kaviar Gauche and Lala Berlin ranked among the most-hyped shows at the MBBFW in June, this season the three labels deliberately dissociated themselves and pooled together for a breathtaking showcase in the Friedrichstadtpalast.

Naturally, the choice of location allowed for a very extravagant and elaborate runway setup. Impressive audio installations and light effects topped off the spectacle. However, it seems as though Michalsky's futuristic catwalk and the 'human disco ball'-performance preluding Kaviar Gauche's show outshone the actual fashion designs that were presented. Sensory stimulus en masse or just a massive overkill? You decide.

(click on 'HD off' for a better view)

.(images via welt.de and Vogue.com)
.

.HBC Designer Scouts

2010-01-23T17:34:00.019+01:00

Berlin Fashion Week is about much more than just the big white tent on Bebelplatz. In fact, a lot of its charm lies in alternative off-site events, like the .HBC Couture: Designer Scouts runway project.
On Thursday night, the art space/party venue was jam-packed with an eclectic and terribly fashionable crowd of artists, hipsters, journalists and fashion-lovers. In between the three sets of shows, one could enjoy a free drink or two (spotted: unknown woman stashing numerous bottles of Becks beer in her handbag) or mill around and get acquainted with the other guests, which included the likes of Katja Hentschel, Jan Joswig and nearly every fashion blogger I can think of. Amongst the designers who presented their work were Starstyling, JuliaandBend, von Bardonitz, Don't Shoot the Messengers and A.D.Deertz.

As soon as the last model had stepped off the runway, the doors of the former Hungarian culture institute also opened themselves for the general public: party tiiime! I had the pleasure of meeting Gerlinde from Vienna and Julia Stelzner, both journalists and hobby-bloggers themselves. My personal highlight of the evening: getting photographed for an American fashion magazine's "Berlin Streetstyle" story. To top it all off, this morning I discovered a shot of myself and my 80ies-style silver blouse on LesMads, my all-time favourite blog! Oh, what a night...

A couple of shots straight from the runway (yay for front-row seating!):

Sverige i Berlin

2010-01-23T14:32:00.016+01:00

After three consecutive days of roaming the snowy streets of Berlin, visiting showrooms, gallery openings, fashion shows and after-show parties, I have found a little bit of time to reboot and recapitulate the hustle and bustle of Berlin Fashion Week.

On the agenda for Day 1: a series of shows at the Showfloor Berlin, themed "eco chic" and exclusively featuring Swedish designers. As with rock music, children's books and cheap furniture, the Swedish are pioneers in eco-friendly and 'sustainable' fashion design. Although I only managed to stay for the first two shows of the night - Matilda Wendelboe and Righteous Fashion - I was pleasantly surprised by what was presented on the runways. Wendelboe and the Malmö-based designer duo behind Righteous Fashion proved that fairtrade and eco-friendly does not have to equal bland cotton dresses or back-to-Woodstock hippie chic.

4 minutes

2010-01-20T00:24:00.010+01:00

The following short film was created by students of the Institute of Fashion and Textile Design at the University of the Arts Berlin. It features original designs by students of the university and doubles as an homage to a newly emerging medium: the 'fashion film'. In my humble opinion, this production is a highly aesthetic blend of visual and audio stimuli. Chapeau!

Throughout Berlin Fashion Week, "4 Minutes" will be screened in the Galeries Lafayette (Friedrichstraße 76-78, 10117 Berlin).

.

Coming Up: Berlin Fashion Week

2010-01-14T19:57:00.023+01:00

Come January 20th, the city of Berlin will once again be swarmed by international media, designers, models, celebrities and of course, fashion bloggers. Thaaat's right, it's Berlin Fashion Week!

Unless your name is on the A-list or you know how to crash like Selma Fonseca, scoring an invite to the shows and/or after-parties may prove to be somewhat difficult. But do not resort to your couch to eat Ben&Jerry's and sulk all week long... at least not yet. This is Berlin, after all!

Various cultural establishments are hosting events and parties open to the public that will definitely be worth checking out. During the last Berlin Fashion Week in June 2009, my friends and I managed to see an assortment of shows, hang out in the Campari Design Loft at Alexanderplatz (open bar, anyone?) and visit the showrooms at the Adlon Hotel. Needless to say, nights out that week were more than just a little crazy ;)

Here's your chance to soak up a little Fashion Week-atmosphere for yourself... I proudly present:

The La Berlina guide to Fashion Week for non-invitees

Opening Party & Showrooms by ProjektGALERIE
Throughout Fashion Week, the ProjektGALLERIE Berlin is once again hosting a variety of showrooms. Stop by on January 19 for the Vernissage and booklaunch ("My Fashion Diary" by Marc Schumann) or to indulge in a little nightshopping (until 1am). The showrooms are open January 20 - 23, 11:ooh - 20:ooh and will represent the Autumn/Winter 2010 collections of 30 international designers. Located @ HOF96/ Lucas Carrieri Art Gallery. Torstrasse 96, 10119 Berlin.

Edgy Hairfashion meets urban Fashion Wear
Up-and-coming photographers Emir Eralp and Miguel Villalobos have collaborated with stylists from "Sebastian Professional" in a series of shoots. The result is admirable and can be viewed in the Fashion Lounge Café at Collegium Hungaricum. January 20, 10:00h - 19:00h (Fashion Lounge Party on January 21, 18:ooh - 24:00h). Dorotheenstraße 12, 10117 Berlin.

Comme Ci, Comme Ca: Designer Scouts After Show Party
While the actual runway show is invitation-only, anybody that can dazzle the bouncers is invited to attend the after-show party at the .HBC. Just like most parties that go down at said gallery, this event promises to be legen... wait for it... dary! January 21, doors: 23:00h. Karl-Liebknecht-Str. 9, 10179 Berlin.

Fashion in Film: Fashion Week Cinema
2009 was probably the year of fashion-inspired movie releases. I'm thinking The September Issues, Marc Jacobs and Louis Vuitton and Brüno... although I'm not too sure whether the latter actually qualifies. Either way, there's a plethora of amazing movies that revolve around fashion, art and aestheticism. Hollywood productions, documentaries, short films - you name it, the F.C. Magnet is screening it! January 20 - 24, first film of the day usually starts at around 17:00h. Check the online program for more information. Veteranenstraße 26, 10119 Berlin.

Closing Party by ProjektGALERIE
Why must all good things come to an end? While I certainly do not know the answer to that question, I can assure you that the closing party on January 23 at ProjektGALERIE will end Fashion Week with a BANG! The event is co-hosted by the Blind Date Swingers Club (a monthly mix cd exchange) and the .HBC, where it will be taking place. Put on your dancing shoes and get ready for a number of live acts that will blow your mind! Doors at 22:ooh, entrance is €8. Karl-Liebknecht-Str. 9, 10179 Berlin.

2010-01-12T20:35:00.001+01:00

because we all have secret ambitions of working as bartenders in Sao Paolo some day.

2010-01-10T15:15:00.003+01:00

found via valetmag.

2009: totally gone GAGA?

2010-01-07T23:57:00.010+01:00

Due to the plethora of "2009 in review"-posts that are currently circulating the blogosphere, I decided to cut it short on words for this one and let the images speak for themselves when addressing something that - by all means - couldn't be ignored in 2009: newcomer Lady Gaga and her wardrobe.

Apart from the singer's musical success and the constant rumors regarding her sexuality, Lady Gaga's bold and sometimes bizarre fashion sense repeatedly landed her in the headlines of international media. While many critics proclaimed her to be tasteless and even colleagues may have shaken their heads in disbelief, international designers such as Roberto Verino or Prada listed the young blonde as a big inspiration for their newest designs.

Noticeable about Lady Gaga's choice in wardrobe (apart from the amount of skin revealed) is definitely her predilection for

big shoulders à la Balmain

and the Thierry-inspired 'origami' dresses.

Alongside the tremendous amount of extraordinary dresses (most of which she claims to design and sew on her own), Lady Gaga seems to also own innumerable pairs of oversized sunglasses.

Whether we like it or not: 2009 would not have been the same without Lady Gaga. Who knows, maybe we can expect a whole decade of Gaga-ism?

Ps. Just to be fair - some of Lady Gaga's biggest fashion blunders:

the new tea experience.

2010-01-03T22:27:00.021+01:00

A decade ago, coffee shops were the new up-and-coming thing. Thanks to Starbucks, a Venti Caramel Macchiato to go was all we needed to appear cosmopolitan and en vogue when strolling down the streets. Experts and trendsetters quickly discovered that combining this with a super stressed-out facial expression was the key to looking like the next Mary-Kate Olsen.

But- as we all know, trends come and go. What's hot in one second is cold in the next. And while there is probably not a single neighborhood in Berlin which does not boast a Caras, Balzac, Starbucks or other kind of coffee shop, a new type of establishment is already gaining ground. Why? Because this decade is all about healthy living!

CHAJA - 1st TEA to go recently opened its gates on Oranienburger Straße 27. Located right in the city center, where the streets are always bustling with tourists and locals alike, the CHAJA shop invites you to step inside and revive both body and soul. Forget that lunchtime caffeine-fix and opt for a Bubble-Tea, Matcha Latte or one of the delicious snacks instead. Discover tea in all of its facets, "hot or cold, pure or perfumed, with milk or without - here you'll find the very best teas for every time of day, every mood, and every taste".

Since its official opening on December 6th, CHAJA has been offering a grand opening special: 0,4L Chai Latte for €2,00. Better drop by soon until the offer expires ;)

2010-01-02T00:57:00.002+01:00

c o u n t i n g d o w n

2009-12-30T23:56:00.006+01:00

Loud music. Champagne. Fireworks. Dinner for one. Dancing.

Whatever your plans for New Year's Eve may look like, forget the hype and pressure about ending '09 with a bang and starting the new year off perfectly... I've heard way too many stories about people stuck on their way to the "party of the year" and forced to celebrate the beginning of the new year on a bus/train/random street. The best times are those which you spend in good company, so make sure you're surrounded by the people you love (and love to party with). Add good food and a little champagne for the obligatory toast... and let the good times roll!

For everyone who will be in Berlin tonight, I can highly recommend stopping by the legendary VILLA party (and afterhour) or the Kings & Queens masquerade at the HBC. For more information about either, check out the 'I Heart Berlin' blog.

If you're still unsure about what to wear, just remember that this may be one of the few nights of the year where anything goes. Well, almost anything. Leave your leopard leotards at home and think flashy! Sequined tops are always a good bet, although throwing on a cocktail dress and rounding off the outfit with a pair of funky stilettos will do the job as well. Once you have overcome that last (very tricky) obstacle of finding the perfect NYE outfit, you're good to go!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

2009-12-25T15:05:00.002+01:00

Think home-cooked food, heavy snowfall, good company and a festive atmosphere... can it get any better than Christmas? I wish you all happy holidays and a jolly good time with your beloved. La Berlina will be back in time for some NYE updates ;)

Until then, ho ho ho!

Last Christmas (I listened to bad music all the time)

2009-12-20T13:24:00.012+01:00

A couple of weeks ago, one of my friends said, "I just heard 'Last Christmas' on the radio... that means it's officially holiday season!" I thought about what she said for a while, and gradually, my initial reluctance made way for accepted defeat. No wonder we're exposed to the same old song every year if there's no good alternatives around... right?

Wrong. There are plenty of contemporary artists that can take on Mariah Carey and WHAM any day. Throughout the past years, I've been compiling some of my personal favourites and burning CDs with them for my friends. At the top of the list is Ron Sexsmith's "Maybe This Christmas" - I've been hooked ever since this song came up on The O.C. a couple of years ago. If you're wondering why Lady Gaga made the cut, just listen to the song... it's hilarious. (although you should wait until your relatives have had plenty of eggnog before you start playing this!)

Who knows, one day our combined efforts may succeed in banning "Last Christmas" from TV & radio stations for good ;)

All I Want For Christmas...

2009-12-15T14:07:00.018+01:00

Yes, it's that time of year again. Those of us who don't spend 99% of their time procrastinating and trying to avoid the inevitable will already have an assortment of neatly wrapped gifts and matching christmas cards stored away in the back of their closet. Everyone else - it's crunch time!

In case you're not only in dire need of wrapped pleasantries for the family, but also lacking creativity to come up with ideas for these, La Berlina is here to save the day. Trust me, I know what it's like to suffer under the annual 'socks & underwear' set that mothers love to give.

See below for an assortment of unique gift ideas that will make your brother's self-made carwash coupon seem extremely unoriginal... (Undoubtly the biggest advantage is that all items can be ordered online and shipped internationally = you won't have to leave the house at all!). Click on the images to enlarge them.

1. The Bubble Calendar: a poster-sized calendar with a bubble to pop every day ($20.10)
What do your little sister, Aunt Marge and Grandfather Larry have in common? There's a child deep down inside all of them! So chances are, they will still love popping the bubble-wrap more than what is actually wrapped in it. Why not treat them to the truly one-of-a-kind 2010 Bubble Wrap Calendar? You can order it from the folks at bubblecalendar.com, who will ship it to you for free! (International shipping is free for orders of 2+ calendars).

2. Miniature Chairs Jewellery Stand (€53.00)
Away with dusty cases full of tangled-up necklaces! This cast iron mini-sculpture will display all of your mother's jewellery in a visually pleasing fashion. Available via Urban Outfitters Online Shop

3. 'Math Sucks' Tshirt by Wildfox (€80.00)
Supposedly there's people out there who actually enjoy battling fractions, algorithms and puzzling equations. I'm not one of them, and maybe your cousin Trudy isn't, either? In that case, she'd probably love this tshirt. Just remind her not to wear it to her next calculus quiz. La Berlina assumes no liability for failed exams due to agitated teachers. Order online

4. Fridge Magnets 'Ransom style' (€14.00)
Ever looked into the fridge and realized that your little brother secretly ate your vanilla yoghurt - again?! By giving him this set of fridge magnets, you will be able to write anonymous notes on the refridgerator door, threatening to devour his peanut butter snacks should he commit such a felony again. Yeah, it's more a present to yourself than to him but, hey, who said that's a bad thing? Via Urban Outfitters Online Shop

5. Undercover Laptop Sleeve (€33)
Disguised as a worn, oversized envelope, this laptop sleeve will ensure that nobody steals your older sister's brand-new macbook. The case is padded for protection on the inside and sports a velcro closure. Buy now

6. 1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die (€27)
Does your dad take great pleasure in bragging about what a music expert he really is? If yes, you're not alone. Do him a favour and surprise him with this 960-page collection of album reviews from over 5 decades. He'll be able to boast about having listened to at least half of these records already, and educate the rest of the family on the milestones of music industry history. Make sure to take this away from him again at one point or he won't stop rambling about how great Woodstock was... Published by Universe and sold via Urban Outfitters Online Shop.

7. Rock 'n' Roll Pen (€13)
Who said your dad was the only one with a good taste in music? Give your boyfriend this electric guitar-style ballpoint pen and he will declare his undying love for you. Also available in saxophone- and keyboard shapes.

[In case you didn't notice yet, Urban Outfitters is THE place to look for novelties and out-of-the-ordinary present ideas!]

Heaven Can Wait

2009-12-12T21:40:00.001+01:00

climate action #2 this Saturday! (12.12.2009)

2009-12-09T17:23:00.006+01:00

A while ago I reported back from an alternative type of demonstration here in Berlin - the Silent Climate Parade. The event turned into a huge success, international media coverage and a daily increasing amount of fans on the event's facebook page followed shortly thereafter.

(can you spot La Berlina in this shot of the Silent Climate Parade?)

Now, the boys are back. In light of the current climate summit in Copenhagen and the World Wants A Real Deal global day of action on December 12th, it is time to take a stand in the fight against climate change. While the event's organizers once again aim to combine political activism with tons of fun and a kickass soundtrack to back everything up, the concept of climate action numero dos differs slightly from that of the previous event.

After signing up, you will be sent a link to download the audio file that will be used during the demonstration. Transfer this file onto your mp3 player and bring it along on Saturday. Not only will you be listening and dancing to the same music as everyone else, you will also receive important instructions on what to do next... this may include chasing other participants who have dressed up as CO2-molecules ;)

All in all, the event promises to be another big success in raising awareness and protecting our environment. Register now and get all of your friends to join in the fun! More information can be found on the official website or on the event's facebook page.

London.4 - Dress Me Up!

2009-12-07T17:17:00.007+01:00

"Ever wished you could borrow a dress from Kate Moss for a big night out?"

Thanks to Topshop, this dream turned into reality for a number of London-based women. Between November 26th and December 6th, customers of Britain's most popular High Street retailer had the opportunity to hire dresses that had previously been donated by selected starlets. The benefit of splurging on one of the dresses for an unforgettable night of glamour (besides the fact that all profits went towards charity) was undoubtly that all worries about other girls showing up in the same outfit could easily be eliminated! An excerpt of the Topshop holiday season catalogue explains just how easy it all was:

While I was unable to hire one of the glamourous gowns (previously owned by Scarlett Johansson, Dita von Teese and many others) myself, browsing through the robes, feeling the different textures of feathers, sequins or tulle, and imagining what kind of events these had been worn to proved to be exciting enough. Photography was strictly forbidden, but I managed to secretly capture the lovingly decorated interior of the miniature fashion temple that had been set up inside the store on Oxford Street.

London.3 - no cinderella story

2009-12-05T11:53:00.005+01:00

Sometimes, life is unfair and we can't do anything about it. Plain and simple.

I had to learn this lesson the past weekend while shopping in London with my friends. Apart from literally scrutinizing every single article of clothing in one of the many vintage shops, we came across a tiny shoe store on Camden High Road that sells low-priced imitations of popular designer pieces. Shoe heaven, so to speak. I was enraptured until I realized that they only carried sizes 36 - 39 (EU). Too bad I'm a size 40 and the shoes tended to run small. Subsequently, I had to sit and watch while my good friend Muriel treated herself to these gems.

Perfectly suited for dancing the night away in one of Berlin's many underground clubs (and not freezing to death on the way back home in the early morning hours), these £30 dark brown faux leather boots would have been the perfect addition to my ever-growing shoe collection. Looks like I'll have to wait and hope for a miracle...

PHOENIX @ La Blogotheque (Take Away Show)

2009-12-05T11:17:00.002+01:00

Alright, so there's some impressions of London I'd still like to share... but in the meantime I couldn't focuse on my studies until I hadn't done my share of spreading the following three videos on the web. 2009 just wouldn't have been the same without Phoenix. Now, the talented young lads have cooperated with La Blogotheque in Paris, and the result is captivating. Sit back and enjoy!

London.2 - inSpiral @ Camden Lock

2009-12-02T17:55:00.015+01:00

Clearly a magnet for tourists and locals alike, Camden (one of London's 32 boroughs) can't be fully discovered in merely one or two hours. Along Camden High Street and around Camden Lock, you will come across a plethora of little shops and market stalls, offering everything from scented candles to black leather plateau boots to fresh fruits and vintage records. Chances are you'll find funky gifts for everyone, grandparents and flatmates alike, if you just take the time to browse a little.

When entering Camden Lock, your eyes and tastebuds will most likely be overwhelmed by the variety of foods and beverages offered at the little stalls lining the alleyways.

No insider's tip but certainly a highlight of the area is the café/bar/shop/lounge inSpiral. Situated on 250 Camden High Street right across from Camden Lock, this venue is unique in its concept and implementation thereof.

"inSpiral combines personal and planetary health with creative media to achieve positive conscious change in a fun way for all!"

Apart from offering a great array of vegetarian and vegan dishes (ever tried hemp millet fricadels or vegan tiramisu cake?), inSpiral hosts parties and events every weekend... Why not pop by the Social Sunday Open Mic session and have a couple of organic beers while you're at it?

If you're still not convinced that is place is a must-see, take into consideration that this is one of the few locations in central London that allows you to have an amazing time while simultaneously benefiting your local community and our planet earth. Idealistic? No way. 100% of the electricity consumed at inSpiral comes from renewable engery sources. All packaging is either biodegrable, recycled or otherwise ecofriendly. None of the staff members own a car - most of them cycle to work!

Captivated by the concept and low-spirited because you live nowhere near London? Do not despair. The brand-new inSpiral website not only features an online shop and radio station, but also offers its advice on how to be ecofriendly and posts news and updates via the inSpiral blog.

London.1 - an interest in fashion

2009-12-02T00:12:00.003+01:00

While the weekend spent in London included more than enough opportunities for shopping, sightseeing and discovering the local clubbing scene, I managed to dedicate a good amount of time to something which my mother would refer to as a 'good investment for the future': touring universities. And although that implied spending a lot of time in cozy common rooms, indulging in biscuits and coffee and chatting with various members of the faculty and the administrative staff, I was also delighted to gain an insight into what real uni life boils down to.

Just for the heck of it (and because the Journalism Department wasn't giving tours that day), I travelled straight from Stansted airport to visit the Open Day for Fashion Design at the Harrow campus of the University of Westminster. What I encountered was a group of open-minded, independent-thinking and friendly students, sputtering with creativity. I also learned more about fashion, its history, and the complexity of tailoring than Vogue could ever teach me. If you get the chance to attend a similar event at the university of your choice, go for it! Trust me, it'll be worth it.

Bye-bye Berlin, hello London!

2009-11-30T16:04:00.002+01:00

Kitsuné Maison Compilation 8 (&party)

2009-11-24T19:06:00.003+01:00

The new compilation is out, and once again it features only the best of new releases. Not only is the cover design pretty damn cool, but seeing the list of artists featured sent me straight to amazon to order a copy for myself :)

Among my current favourites, The Drums and Le Corps Mince de Francoise, the record also features French Horn Rebellion, Slagsmalsklubben, My Tiger My Timing and many more...

For a sneak preview, either visit the Kitsuné website or check out the funny promo video:

I wish I could keep this hidden from everyone else as I myself won't be in Berlin this weekend to join the fun, but there's a Kitsuné party @ Ritter Butzke this weekend that promises to knock your socks off. Various DJs that are also represented on the new compilation will be spinning, so if all of my advertisement for the CD didn't convince you yet, go and see for yourself!

fashion forward: winter '09

2009-11-23T21:16:00.008+01:00

Last year, it was all about funky colored tights. I bet every girl could search her closet right now and come across at least one pair of turquoise or neon pink tights. Whether you paired them up with a black dress or something a little more daring, don't deny that you, too, followed the trend (it's ok- I think we all did...).

However, right now all of that is literally Schnee von gestern as the German likes to say. Fall/winter 2009 is about a little more skin - and with that I mean net tights, lace tights and half-transparent tights with prints on them. Designs this season are clearly a little more girly and less edgy, although that depends on what you choose for the rest of your outfit.

So far, Topshop seems to sport the best selection. Among my favourites are the all over heart tights and the regal net tights for a plain look. If you're not afraid to show some color, go for the vintage lace tights in dusty pink or the forest scribble net tights. With prices ranging from £8.00 - £12.00, you'll also have plenty of cash left to splurge in the shoe department ;)

Happy shopping!

Butterflysoulfire - CLOSING SALE

2009-11-12T19:24:00.000+01:00

Paris ou Berlin?

2009-11-10T18:54:00.006+01:00

When talking about the modern art exhibition "Dysfashional", this question does not need to be posed. Until November 29th, magazine cut-outs, various live installations et tout le bataclan can be found in the Passage du Desir in Paris. And - voilà - come June 2010, the fashion exhibit will grace Berlin with its presence.

Rather than focusing on past designs, trends or the evolution of fashion, "Dysfashional" aims to capture the everything surrounding the actual clothing: inspiration, public opinion, press coverage and the influence of fashion on society are only some themes that the various works of art address.

“Dysfashional tackles the seemingly frivolous yet vital realm of fashion by examining the approach of designers and artists from various backgrounds, bringing us closer to a world in which the protagonists are not the objects but the creative process itself.” (Luca Marchetti, one of the show's curators// via TheMoment)

Exhibiting artists include Hussein Chalayan, Antonio Marras, Maison Martin Margiela, Gaspard Yurkievich, Sissel Tolaas, Marc Turlan, Raf Simons and many more. See the official website for more information regarding opening hours, ticket prices etc. One thing's for sure - I can't wait until June!

magazine cut-out by Marc Turlan, photo via Colette

"Mt. Blushmore", live installation featuring Lagerfeld, Versache, Wintour and Galliano

2009-11-08T22:06:00.000+01:00

Vivienne Westwood Anglomania Wrap Coat

2009-11-05T21:16:00.007+01:00

While temperatures are slowly but surely decreasing, it's time to invest in something that'll keep you warm AND still look fashionable. All. Winter. Long! Think about it, finding a stylish winter coat that doesn't make you look like Frosty the Snowman or a big fat penguin isn't as easy as it sounds... I myself have been struggling with this over the past couple of years. Part of that goes to the fact that, even if equipped with a Canada Goose original heli-arctic parka, I'd still be freezing my ass off.

But what happens when you go on an outdoor-date or some event that requires you to stand outside in the freezing cold for hours? Would you like to be caught wearing that skiing jacket your mom bought in the 80s, just because 'it's soo warm and cozy'? Thought so.

Thus, I present to all ladies out there, my absolute favourite as far as this season's winter coats go: The Vivienne Westwood Anglomania Wrap Coat. It's a wool blend coat in a muted gray. The neck is draped, making the coat flow smoothly to the waist, where it can be tied with a broad belt. Besides a cute pattern on the inside lining, this coat features wide arms (perfect for when you're layering sweathirts below it) and large side pockets. I'm in love! Good thing this gem only costs $1438, right?

For more details or to order an early christmas present for me, visit La Garconne.

have a seat.

2009-11-03T23:50:00.004+01:00

Autumn in New York City
image by Naruto via flickr.com

takka takka takk.

2009-11-02T23:04:00.009+01:00

Cafés full of people staring at their macbook screens are no longer a rarity. If you see somebody sitting in a café by themselves, that person will most likely be engrossed in a magazine or hacking away at the keys of their laptop. Stockholm, Prague, Valencia, Boston - it's all the same!

However, Berlin wouldn't be Berlin if it didn't have a funky concept to cater to everybody's needs. Feel like grabbing a cup of coffee and sewing a dress on the side? No problem. All you need to do is bring the fabric and step into "Stitch 'n' Bitch". Located on Wrangelstraße 80 in Berlin-Kreuzberg, this snug little sewing-café offers its customers access to one of ten sewing machines and a generous work space.

Founded by a Dutch lady named Linda about 3 years ago, "Stitch 'n' Bitch" is popular with all kinds of folks: whether you're letting your creativity flow on a kaftan-style gown or just need to fix a hole in your favourite jeans, everybody's welcome. The experience is currently worth 5€/hour, which seems fair considering the kind advice you will receive from employees at any point in time. Opening hours are Tuesdays through Saturdays, 13:oo - 22:ooh.

apple curry chicken (yum!)

2009-11-02T22:49:00.006+01:00

Soup Culture
Kurfürstendamm 224
open Monday - Saturday, 12-19:30h

DIY Halloween Masquerade

2009-10-29T16:43:00.010+01:00

It's that time of the year again! Admittedly, there's only so much you can still do in preparing the world's best Halloween costume, as October 31st is only two days away. So, unless you've got a naughty nurse costume hanging in the closet or some pretty creepy hobbies that you keep hidden from mom and dad, it's crunch time!
Do not despair, there's plenty of cool ideas one can come up with even on a short notice. An option that proves to be both low-priced and easy to make is a do-it-yourself mask. A masquerade is a glamourous way to dress up with little effort involved. What you wear with it is up to you, so feel free to either go over-the-top in a fancy cocktail dress or stay casual with a black shirt and a pair of Levi's.

What you will need:
- a plain paper/plastic mask (usually priced at around 3€ & available in all shapes/colors)
- sequins, glitter, ribbons, trimming,... anything appealing you find around the house/at the next department store
- feathers (always look nice and give the mask a more extravagant feel to it)
- glue (you'll have a hard time without this one)
- a little bit of creativity

Now... get crazy! Perhaps it would be a good idea to make some sketches on a piece of paper before you start glueing stuff onto the mask. Also, think about which color spectrum you're looking at. Gold, red, dark green (looks good with peacock-feathers!) and black usually look more glamourous than blue or pink, which are more flashy. However, sometimes sticking to just one color plus a little gold or silver can create a nicer effect than going overboard on the colorwheel. The two images below are great examples of masks that seem rather simplistic at first, but reveal intricate design and complicated handiwork at a second glance.

in retrospect: rave for the environment

2009-10-27T15:22:00.011+01:00

I didn't go to the parade to take great photography or shoot award-winning film material. I participated because climate change is a very important issue to me, because I think taking action is always better than simply discussing a matter and its pressing importance. I took part because it sounded like a great idea to spend the day dancing through Berlin with my friends and 350 other people.

Therefore, don't get your guns out when you watch my cinematic snippets of the event.

I was temporarily traumatized after handing back my headphones and finding myself without the tunes of Dirty Doering, which explains why my imbecile self conducted the interview with Peter Esser in German, rather than in English (as I had originally planned). Apologies go out to anyone not understanding a word of what he's saying.

Enough with the rambling ... enjoy!

hey mamaa, i wanna go surfing!

2009-10-22T16:55:00.003+02:00

make a change - have a party!

2009-10-22T16:01:00.012+02:00

These days, raising awareness works best when firm conviction for your cause is paired with creativity and some kind of appeal for pop culture... On Ocotber 24th, people all over the world will come together and protest against the sky-rocketing amounts of CO2-emissions global industries are still producing. Here in Berlin, the protest will take place in form of a Silent Climate Parade.

The concept is simple: 350 people may pre-register online for a limited amount of headphones. These will be distributed at Potsdamer Platz (in front of the Ritz) at 14:ooh on Saturday. Come 15:ooh, the legendary Dr. Motte (Love Parade, anyone?) and DJ Dirty Doering (Bar25) will feed these babies with finest electro beats - and you will start dancing! All participants will follow an eco-powered vehicle from Potsdamer Platz all the way to Alexanderplatz. For the exact route, click here. Nobody except those wearing the headphones will be able to hear a thing, so curious and confused looks from passersbys and tourists should be expected!

Here's your chance to engage in a good cause and have tons of fun while you're at it. The 350 haven't been reached yet, so registrations are still welcome on the official website.

See you on Saturday!! ;)

SEVEN SWEATERS

2009-10-21T23:57:00.008+02:00

When it comes to vintage fashion, you either hate it or love it. Belonging to the latter group of people, I was absolutely stoked to find out my favourite thrift store here in Berlin was having its annual fall clear-out sale. Armed with some nutribars and a 1.5L bottle of evian water, I attacked racks and boxes and scrutinized every item on display. On my way home three hours later, I had 2 gigantic bags full of garments, shoes and handbags sitting next to me in the car... and only spent about 20€!

Among the clothes were seven sweaters, 1€ each. I've finally had some time to properly combine them with the rest of my clothes to test out their 'full potential', if you will... :)

For a more detailed look, simply click on the image to enlarge it.

2009-10-18T19:11:00.002+02:00

ein ♥ für blogger

2009-10-16T18:30:00.019+02:00

Following a tradition that's been established throughout the past few years, I will share with you 5 of my favourite online blogs. Why? There's a good amount of great blogs out there that you'd really enjoy, if you knew about them. Someone, I don't know who, started this a couple of years ago... I love the idea!

Anyways, here's the deal: Everyone keeping an online blog may use this day to honour 5 of his personal favourites. No restrictions on content or language... just go for it!

5 of my fave sources of inspiration (and procrastination, for that matter...)

1) Le Coolcats Blog - selected DJs and artists signed by the french record label ED BANGER share their thoughts and impressions of day-to-day life.

2) GLAMCANYON - if you've never seen Katja Hentschel's amazing photography, you're either not from Berlin, lacking an internet connection (unlikely, as you're currently viewing an online blog) or have been shacked up at home for the past years. This is one of her many projects, a streetstyle blog focused mainly on people in and from Berlin.

3) Dirtyglam - written by a young swedish girl. Concentrates on fashion, lifestyle and aesthetic photography. Ellen (that's her name) makes great 'inspirational collages', as she likes to call them.

4) Emma Nygren - having gained national media attention and popularity through this blog, Emma Nygren is now featured in the online version of the swedish ELLE and a regular at events surrounding the swedish fashion and lifestyle scene.

5) LesMads - Last but not least, LesMads! Theirs was one of the first german blogs about fashion, culture, lifestyle and art. If it weren't for LesMads, I probably wouldn't be writing a blog myself right now. Hint hint: extremely girly ;)

getting ink done

2009-10-15T22:14:00.003+02:00

Have you ever considered getting a tattoo, perhaps during your 'rebellious teenage years'? A surprisingly large amount of people actually answers that question with 'yes', while the number of people that end up pulling through with it is considerably lower.

There's numerous reasons against getting a tattoo, the most convincing ones probably being the fact that finding employment proves to be more difficult and that... well... once you've got a tattoo, you've got it for a lifetime!

Wait- not neccesarily! A new trend emerging from (guess where...) the United States is the UV tattoo. UV tattoos are done in a special flourescent ink (colors range from titanium white to hot pink) and can only be seen under blacklight. While they've been around for the past 15 years, UV tattoos seem to be becoming more and more popular these days. They're easy to conceal during daytime and a great conversation-starter for nights out clubbing.

Negative aspects include heightened risks for allergic reactions and the fact thatUV tattoos are usually about 20% more expensive than the regular job. Decide for yourself and see below for some examples.

Ps. No worries, I myself am not planning to get ink done anytime soon ;)

picture of the day: which way are we gonna go?

2009-10-05T20:59:00.001+02:00

affirmation of taste

2009-10-04T13:40:00.003+02:00

Admittedly, the image accompanying my post on the overknee trend wasn't mindblowing, nor a qualitative highlight. To my defense, it was taken with my webcam as I am temporarily camera-less. However, I promised a follow-up... and while I am still unable to produce valuable photography, I did recover a couple of images from the web affirming my previous prediction. See below for streetstyle snapshots from the the Dior show at Paris Fashion Week.

Oh, overknees! ;)

Images via LesMads.

Je suis tombée en amour avec...

2009-10-04T13:33:00.001+02:00

you can't rush art.

2009-09-25T20:29:00.006+02:00

Calling all lovers of contemporary art: the international art show art forum berlin is well underway here in the lovely capital of Germany. Make sure to take your time and check it out before Sunday, the 27th of September.

Now in its 14th year, the art forum berlin will once again host galleries from all over the world, presenting many works of up-and-coming international artists. Information regarding opening hours, tickets, a list of exhibiting galleries and more can be found on the official website. Don't miss it!

COOL AND BORED (0:47)

2009-09-23T20:04:00.000+02:00

Keep 'em coming: Overknees

2009-09-22T15:33:00.006+02:00

Already emerging in last year's fall/winter trends were overknee boots, as spotted on various runways and the american television show Gossip Girl.

A variation of this trend was made popular by the spanish fashion icon/designer Trini Gonzalez, who promoted the look through her fashion blog toutlamode. They were in coming last season, and they are definitely here now: overknee stockings! See below for a first feeble attempt and make sure to check back for more refined updates at a later point in time.

my personal highlight of Dockville '09...

2009-09-09T00:14:00.002+02:00

Dockville '09

2009-09-08T23:32:00.016+02:00

Had the pleasure to attend an open-air festival for music and art this summer, together with my best friend Pia. It took place in a district of the german city Hamburg which can best be compared to NYC's Williamsburg. Ironically, the german version is called Wilhelmsburg - kinda similar name as well, eh?

Anyhow, the performances ranged from alternative/indie rock to electro to experiental indietronic and beyond... highlights included swedish Miss Li, the german trash-electro group Mediengruppe Telekommander, Dan Le Sac vs. Scroobius Pip, Beat!Beat!Beat!, Marcus Carp and international acts such as Metronomy, Bonaparte, The Whitest Boy Alive, William Fitzsimmons (for those sun-filled afternoons) and MGMT!

Apart from the musical performances, one could enjoy the various contemporary art installations to be found all over the festival area (some of which you had to 'discover' first), revive your inner child while playing on the musical playground, screenprint your clothes, create DIY beats or just kick it with a bunch of lunatics and crazy people ;)

In For The Kill (La Roux)

2009-08-26T22:08:00.002+02:00

Sommerpause

2009-08-26T20:59:00.008+02:00

La Berlina is back from summer break, reunited with Europe's loveliest capital for yet another year. But where did I escape to while - even here in Berlin - temperatures were sky-rocking high?

Stops of the La Berlina European Surf Summer:

Moliets, France
San Sebastián, Spain

Hvide Sande, Denmark

Postcard from Paradise - my summer '09.

fashion factory

2009-05-07T22:20:00.003+02:00

Believe it or not - Vienna actually has one of the niftiest flea markets i've ever seen. That's probably because it takes place in combination with the daily "Naschmarkt", which literally translates into "nibble-market" - a.k.a. you're being offered tiny bits of food to nibble on from all of the market stalls you pass. But that's only on a side note...

I bought a pair of incredibly hideous, leopard-print, cycling shorts for 1€ which I took home with the intent of performing a miracle. Back in Berlin, my ancient sewing machine and 15 minutes later, the ugly rag had transformed itself into a funky leopard-print stretch skirt... see for yourself :)

P-R-O-M

2009-05-05T19:56:00.004+02:00

It's that time of year again... when spring slowly starts to fade into summer, and the end of the school year nears. Amidst final exams, college decisions and graduation, the high school Senior will have to complete one more daunting task: finding a prom date.

If you're extremely popular and have drop-dead gorgeous looks, the hardest part will be choosing from amongst the many offers you've received. Everyone else will be scurrying to find the perfect match before all the good ones are already taken... My advice: go with someone you will feel comfortable around. So what if there's that Junior chick that you've been dying to get with all year? The awkwardness of you two having dinner together or doing the waltz for three hours most likely won't be worth the pretty picture of you two hanging on the kitchen refrigerator.

Once you've found the perfect escort, round up all of your courage and creativity. Yes, you've heard me right: thinking of a funky way to ask out your chosen one will, in the case of a rejection, at least leave you with a fun memory. Scientific studies have furthermore proven that the likeliness of a rejection decreases exponentially as the creativity of your invitation increases.

Hmm, sure! So that last bit might have been bogus, but I can only recommend an out-of-the-ordinary prom invite. Check this video to see how I asked out my date:

Ps. In case you were wondering - he said yes ;)

teddy's tee

2009-05-03T21:34:00.005+02:00

A classmate of mine is moving back to the U.S. and therefore getting rid of a lot of her stuff. She's been selling a couple of items from her wardrobe via facebook, and I managed to snatch this shirt. I'm quite happy with my pick, what do you think?

l'après-midi

2009-05-03T20:49:00.004+02:00

New Blog, new luck :) I wanted to start this off with a song that's been running through my head all day long - and all of yesterday, too, for that matter...

The original piano piece is entitled "Comptine d'un autre été: l'après-midi" and was composed by Yann Tiersen. It's well-known due to its feature in the Amélie movie. There's been several remixes of this piece; the one found below was done by a dj called Jay Haze. It's a masterpiece in my eyes... nobody else has yet managed to add to the magic of the original without taking away from the beauty and purity of it.

Minimal toujours! Enjoy...