Vote for Kitten Heels!

So girls it is time for another poll:) I would love to know if you will be wearing Kitten Heels this winter? They are definitely easier than clogs but also a very different look to the high heels we have been teetering around on for the past seasons.. which is maybe a good thing??

I personally still have to get excited about the mini heel (which will take another magazine or 2)...as I am usually super flat or sky high so cruising in the middle is a new look for me..but dying to know if you are going to be kitten sexy or sticking with your 4 inches??

Some Kitten heels to inspire your vote....

Leather shorts - Autumn Winter 2010

Well incase you have not noticed yet... I am loving leather for Fall Winter! I am also still on the look out for the perfect item! The H&M leather pants were not a great fit by the way... well at least not on me!     

Leather shorts have been making a big impact at retail this week and definitely a must have item for the season. There are lots of different styles ranging from hot pants, boxy silhouette, paper bag waist line to high waisted but for colours I would stick to classic black, brown or tan.

I love the look with opaque stocking, a polo neck and flats....classic but a winner! You can always add a statement necklace to spice things up a bit.

Chloé for tea darling?

What a delightful afternoon...I met up with a friend who I only got to know briefly as she was leaving Zurich to live in Hong Kong and I had just arrived from Hong Kong! Four years later we managed to meet up for tea :) at the trendy Mo Bar of the Landmark Manadarin Oriental hotel. Vanessa is 39 weeks pregnant and looking fantastic! She is a great High Heels and Nappies supporter and as you can imagine there was a lot of "baby talk"...:)

Mo Bar - Hong Kong

But it was not just any tea ....we enjoyed specially designed pastries inspired by Chloé`s signature fragrances..and to top it off we received a special Chloé gift of hand cream and a small bottle of perfume...Tea never tasted this good!

 

The afternoon tea set will be available from 3pm to 5.30pm till the 30th September...so if you in HK definitely pop down for a cuppa!

Lane Crawford - Hong Kong

I nearly died.. (said with a very thick South African accent!) stepping into Lane Crawford is pure torture !! The array of fabulous shoes is magnificent...after seeing many only on line it was awesome to get up, close and personal with many of my true loves but being in Hong Kong....land of tiny feet....they do not stock my size!! Maybe this is a good thing as I would be broke and the credit card would be maxed out so end the day it is a saving grace!... I can hear Philipp sighing with relief:)

The Lane Crawford store within the IFC and Pacific Place Mall are Asia's leading specialty stores, offering the largest assortment of designer brands in Greater China, exhibited in a series of gallery-like rooms. The stores are a fusion of fashion, art and architecture. It is a must when you come to HK and even if you can not buy anything you walk away feeling very inspired!
Service is key and they offer a styling, cosmetic concierge and concierge service to make you feel like a rock star... they will even charge your mobile phone:)

Lane Crawford IFC

Lane Crawford Pacific Place

Got to go back and explore more as they have a stunning range of fashion jewellery which caught my eye.. the credit card is not safe yet!!

Fitness DVD review...Tracy Anderson

Many girls are asking about the Tracy Anderson Post Pregnancy Workout dvd and I promised a review......so here it is..

Tracy Anderson says it is all about waking up the abs and that she definitely does.. mine were so asleep that I could not even do all the exercises but after a couple of weeks I can do almost all of them... but hey, Rome was not built in a day! 

The routines are relatively straight forward offering variations for beginners and are easy to remember so after a while you don't need to play the dvd every time. The routine is all floor work and no dancing around the room so I did the dvd often with Sebastian lying next to me on his play mat. It is obviously easier when he is asleep as it takes a full hour. You need to get an exercise mat and light arm weights nothing heavier than 3 pounds. 

The dvd only has classical music playing in the background which is not very motivational so I would often play music through my computer to get me in the mood.

End of the day the results depend on how often you do it but overall I am so glad I ordered it and suggest you get online now.... as it is the business! 

www.amazon.co.uk

Prepare for take off.....

Yipppeeee...we have arrived in HK!! After 3 days of packing and many nervous calls to friends regarding the big journey ahead we are finally here...and it feels fabulous!

Packing my hand luggage was definitely the most difficult task and just before leaving I decided to pack my handbag reducing my bags to two instead of three. As I needed to push Sebastian in the Maclaren ..and well.... I started to look a bit like a donkey!! It was the best idea as on the flight I had my nappy bag at my feet with all the essentials and then a pull along suitcase stowed away up top with extra nappies, clothing etc for emergencies.

I boarded the flight first which actually worked well and the air hostesses were sweet and held Sebastian while I sorted myself out... I then had two young guys in there 30`s sitting on either side of me.. GREAT I thought, perfect for my first airplane breast feeding experience! I joked with the one guy saying I am sure he was thrilled to be sitting next to us:) But I introduced Sebastian to the row and explained it was our first flight and we were going to to try our best!

Well Sebastian lived up to his promise and was just a perfect passenger... even the air hostesses were saying he was going to become a pilot as he seemed to enjoy the flight so much....entertaining everyone with his giggles, flirty smiles and air kicking out of the bassinet......very cute! After his aerobic act and looking around the plane in total amazement he went to sleep, waking just before breakfast. I even managed to sleep a bit!

I would definitely confirm feeding your baby a bottle during take off and landing.. not sure how someone would breast feed, was so happy I had a bottle! It helps with balancing the ear pressure and also a good distraction. Then you just need to be organized with all your nappies, clothes, blankets etc and wish for the best.! Guess this will be as good as it gets as next time he will be too big for the bassinet and once they start to crawl ..it is a  whole new ball game..:)

Sebastian in his Maclaren buggy....ready for take off...

High Heels and Nappies is off to HK!!

We are off to Hong Kong tonight.. I can`t wait, although a bit nervous for the whole journey ahead but crossing fingers it will go smoothly!! Thanks to everyone who sent great traveling advice!
Lots of exciting news to come from the East... stay posted!!:)
xx

My how times have changed...

Exactly a year ago I was dancing around the Zurich street parade wearing a police hat and sipping champagne with Philipp asking me to arrest him!! :))

Now, being a responsible Mom, I am at home putting Sebastian to bed and thinking it is crazy how much can change in 365 days! Yet there is no other place I would rather be than with my cute little boy.. Street parade can wait.. at least until next year:)

Zurich Street Parade 2009

What I am loving about lace....

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Lace is going to be steaming hot this Winter 2010/11...so hope you get inspired by what I am "loving" about lace...
LOVE: lace and leather.... definitely a match made in heaven this coming winter. I am just crazy about the contrast of feminine, romantic lace against the edgy rock spirited leather. I saw a great pair of leather trousers at H&M for 250 chf (+-230$)..which I am dying to try.... just got to go back without Sebastian..not easy trying on clothes with him! Also saw Joseph had a fabulous pair in there new Ad campaign...love the look!!

LOVE: lace booties and accessories such as lace tights, gloves etc. Feminine, sexy and just a touch naughty! Lace tights are a great and affordable way of up dating your look.

Diane Von Furstenbergs lace gloves are a must...and don`t forget to go and see the Nicholas Kirkwood lace booties at Lovers Lane in Zurich.

LOVE: lace dresses.....got to find the perfect dress.... option to go ladylike and pretty or sexy and edgy by combining it with a killer pair of buckled booties..your choice, as both will rock this winter season.!!

Photo book - Ruth Hofmann photography

A special photo book, complied from some of my favorite photos taken by Ruth Hofmann photography arrived yesterday. I was so excited to unpack the beautiful book which was presented in a black box with gold ribbon...nothing like great packaging to get you excited!!

Looking ever so chic in a high gloss cover which is perfect to protect the book as well as making an elegant statement on the coffee table.

I am over the moon to have such gorgeous photos of Sebastian...Ruth you are a star!! 

The book and cover

Ruth also offers photo story boards mounted on aluminum or canvas, cards and lots more, so be sure to ask her for details. http://www.hofmannphotography.com

Examples of the story boards can be seen below.

Belle and Boo

Charlotte, my ever inspirational friend introduced me to Belle & Boo and they are so delightful I thought I have to share them with you...

Belle & Boo heads up a collection of beautiful artworks from the imagination of  illustrator Mandy Sutcliffe.

Belle & Boo are two of Mandy’s favourite characters. Belle with her bobbed hair, bright eyes and wearing vintage clothing, is insistently curious about the world  around her, and based on elements of Mandy as a child. With her magical imagination Mandy was always surrounded by friends, and together they fulfilled many a daydream. So when creating Belle she gave her Boo - Belle’s adorable bunny rabbit companion and confidant.

Belle, Boo and their friends are offered in a range of beautiful art prints, perfect for a babies or children`s room. I just love the simple vintage and naive style which captures sweet nostalgic moments of childhood. Some of the prints are limited editions, with only 80 or 90 ever made, presented in beautiful packaging. All art prints are offered framed or mounted at reasonable prices of £30 - £60.  View the website for more information and world wide shop locations. http://www.belleandboo.com

A limited edition box of prints beautiful packaged.

An enchanting range of homeware, clothing, paper goods and cute bits and bobs can also be found.

The book 'Bubbles Before Bed' is her latest creation !! It is a story book, colouring book & activity book all rolled into one which will be available in store from September !! 
Lots of gorgeous things, definitely worth a trip to London to meet Belle & Boo!

Shoe madness

Classics will rule next season but there is still a place for something a bit OTT(Over the top)! Even though as Moms we have to be practical rather than striking huge fashion statements everyday.

So for a bit of fun I thought I would show you some wild Autumn Winter shoes. If anything a feast for your eyes....unique design, totally extravagant,  fantastic creativity and maybe a bit of madness:) Enjoy!

Zara home kids - Quilts

We are not as lucky to have a Zara home in Zurich but girls take note as they have some fabulous and affordable linen for kids. 

I looked everywhere in Zurich for a nice quilt or cover for Sebastian`s nursery day bed which was not crazy expensive. Eventually looking online I found Zara had some great quilts and for a change the boy`s selection was nicer than than girls.

I ordered the Chipy star quilt which is reversible with stripes on the back ...so two looks in one!

It was 60 Euros, being so affordable you don`t have to worry if your baby messes on it plus the quality is really nice so I was quiet impressed.
http://www.zarahome.com/shop/de/de/zara-home-kids/category/Quilts+/72501/-1/0

Tip: Have a look around and on various online sites, even if you have to ship to a friend aboard as the selection in Zurich is so small.
http://www.kinderraeume.com/
http://www.kings-and-queens.com/
http://www.thewhitecompany.com/
http://www.serenaandlily.com

Sebastian snuggling in his quilt

Ring trends

I am crazy about rings at the moment and the various new silhouettes  ....we layered and piled on necklaces for seasons and now we will do the same with rings... I love the look captured in the new BCBG Autumn Winter catalogue shot below...a very strong feminine statement...maybe not to be taken one to one but I definitely see embellished hands as a strong trend.

So I have already talked about the long rings from BCBG which were inspired by Repossi, but got to show you the new designs as they are pretty fabulous! Plus they are such a great price - $78 to $118! 

To complete the look you have to add a "double ring"...making the ultimate fashion statement....or if you are not as daring....it is also enough of a statement on it`s own.  I am dying to try one as I am sure it must be a unique feeling to have two fingers locked together... All in the name of fashion I guess!!

Inside info for my Aésop fans!

I am excited to share with my "High Heels and Nappies" readers one of the most celebrated new launches of Aésop: the Perfect Facial Hydrating Cream available in store from 1st September. 

Perfect Facial Hydrating Cream is a vitamin and anti-oxidant rich moisturiser. It contains a superior form of Vitamin C delivered in a potent blend of plant-derived extracts that include Rosehip, Jojoba and Shea Butter. It is ideal for those who live in polluted urban environments or whose skin has been neglected. Despite the deep hydration it offers, the cream is particularly light to wear with a matt and smooth finish. The cream has a unique texture and composition, making it unlike any other Aesop hydrating product.

Perfect Facial Hydrating Cream - CHF 148.00 (60mL).

Sounds rather fabulous and dying to try it myself!! Roll on September!

Vintage fever....

There is serious vintage fever building up for Winter and the new Autumn Winter 2010 Prada video is the perfect way to get you inspired for the season!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Jta-rNNnzk

"Cat`s-eyes" shaped sunglasses are the accessory to capture the vintage look ...and without a doubt going to be the shape of the season.... it is more to find the perfect pair which suits you....happy hunting!!

Prada

Tom Ford  - Anouk

Harpers Bazaar selection, from top to bottom: Marc Jacobs, Tom Ford, Alexander McQueen, Paul Smith, Ralph lauren and Linda Farrow vintage

Interview with Melanie Guenthardt from the fabulous "Lovers Lane" shoe store in Zurich

I am excited to share my first interview with Melanie Guenthardt. A Mother to the gorgeous two and half year old Ava and co - owner of the fabulous shoe store "Lovers Lane" in Zurich....how "High Heels and Nappies" can you get?!!!

Melanie left the banking world after falling pregnant and when Ava was a year old she set out to pursue her dream of opening her own shoe store. Which has injected much needed edge and style into Zurich keeping us up to speed with the latest shoe designers.

HHAN:What makes "Lovers Lane" special compared to other shoe stores in Zurich?
MG: We like to be on top of the latest trends offering a range of shoes from hip and edgy designers who are creating buzz in London. We are excited to be exclusively stocking the amazing Nicholas Kirkwood and Charlotte Olympia this Fall Winter.

HHAN: The interior of the shop is very unique, tell me about the inspiration.

MG: We feel shoes are very sensual and sexy and wanted to create a feminine boudoir environment to capture this mood. The architecture is inspired by the lanes in London. Imagine strolling down a lane at night peering into windows displaying gorgeous objects of desire.

Drawing of shop interior

HHAN: What should a shoe lover except to find when visiting your store?

MG: She will find her dream shoe which will make a killer fashion statement ....yet she can also find comfy flats which are perfect for Mothers who need to be practical yet want to be stylish. In the end of the day comfort is key to all our styles as you want to be able to dance the night away in your 4 inch heels!

HHAN: So lets talk trends, what should we expect for Fall Winter? We are all dying to know what you think will be the "Must Have" shoe and bag of the season, the perfect "investment" and of course the silly "splurge" which sometimes just has to be done!

MG: "Must have" boot: Nicholas Kirkwood lace bootie 

"Must have" sandal: Charlotte Olympia Eve

"Must Have" Handbag: Stella McCartney Falabella Bag 

 

Best investment shoe: Kickapoo Stella McCartney over knee boot

Best Splurge: Valentino red bi-colour sequin clutch     

 

HHAN:Still on the topic of style... do you think your style has changed since becoming a Mom?

MG: Yes definitely, I am much more practical these days. Even though I am now a Mom I still think it is just as important to feel and look good. One thing that has not changed, I still build my outfit around my accessories...a designer pair of shoes sets the tone and can be easily mixed with more affordable clothing labels such as H&M.

HHAN: How do you manage to balance being a Mom and pursuing a career?

MG: I concentrate on the Marketing and PR side of the business so I am quite flexible and can work from home. Ava goes to a day care two days a week and of course I am lucky to have the support of my Mom who looks after Ava when I am away on my buying trips.

HHAN: What advice do you have for other Mom`s out there..

MG: To keep following your dreams, maintain and pursue your interests so you are not always talking about dirty nappies!

HHAN: ...like a blog :))

HHAN: What are Ava`s favorite shoes at the moment?

MG: She loves Pretty Ballerinas, she has a few pairs which she wears all the time!
www.prettytballerinas.com

HHAN: What is your favorite luxury children's brand?:

MG: Mmhh..would have to be Bonpoint www.bonpoint.com

HHAN: And the perfect budget store?:

MG: Definitely Baby Gap...I loved the recent Stella McCartney range ....but it didn`t end up being so budget! www.gap.com

Thanks Melanie, I really enjoyed our chat and discovered we share many of the same views including the love of beautiful shoes!!

So girls..I would definitely recommend a trip down "Lovers Lane"
www.loverslane.ch 

Address: Baerengasse 4, 8001 Zurich