All of us at GUDDE MOIEN and TIMELESS PIECES are wishing you  A VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR filled with Good Health, Joy and Sweetness. Thank you for all your support in 2012.  

MENG HAUT ASS DAT WAERT! (The skin you're in ..)

#MUSTHAVE #DONTLEAVEHOMEWITHOUTIT #SPF #GUDDEMOIEN

There are some beauty products I can easily do without (blush f.ex.) BUT I NEVER leave the house sans Sunscreen (and nor should you)

I am a light-skinned Northern European, using SPF is a MUST. Over the years, I tried many products before settling for these two:

1) Face, Neck - CHANEL UV Essentiel Complete Sunscreen SPF50
Chanel describes this as the “skin’s guardian angel”. It is oil-free and lightweight with a pleasant non-obtrusive smell. It is not chalky (although it contains Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide) and glides on easily. The only drawback is the price tag: $55 1 fl oz

2) Rest of the body - Anthelios by Laroche-Posay. I purchased Anthelios suncare products in France long before the FDA finally approved their sale in the US. High SPF, fragrance/paraben free, water resistant and tolerance tested on sensitive skin. 

Anthelios products are recommended and endorsed by the The Skin Cancer Foundation and by many dermatologists. Reasonable price range.
Only drawback: white residue on my face and my pores tend to get clogged (even with the Fluide and the Mineral) (doesn't happen with the Chanel UV Essentiel)

Both Chanel and La Roche-Posay offer a vast range of sun care products. Check them out.

D’KLEEDER MAACHEN D’LEIT! (Paris – part 2)

I am not a fan of fast fashion chains (I highly recommend reading "Overdressed" by Elizabeth L. Cline) à la H&M, Forever21, Old Navy, Zara, etc. For one, the ethical issues (pollution, toxic chemicals, labor rights and conditions…) are hard to ignore. Moreover, I prefer investing in my wardrobe, making sure my garments have a great fit and stand the test of time. Quality over quantity!

This said, if you are on a budget, shopping at a value retailer is often a solution and truth be told, at some point or another, most of us have bought inexpensive staples. The trick is to find items that hold their shape, don't shrivel or fall apart after the first washing/dry-cleaning and are able to endure a few fashion cycles. Enter Massimo Dutti (owned by Zara's parent company Inditex).

I visited their Champs-Elysées location and was pleasantly surprised:

a) Gorgeous window displays; an inviting, sleek store design

b) Staff was extraordinarily nice and helpful

c) Large selection of clothing, footwear and accessories (men, women, kids)

d) Free tailoring on full priced items

e) The clothing is on trend rather than trendy, very wearable and well-made (high-end fabrics f.ex. cashmere, silk, etc. but not top quality (there is a reason why a Loro Piana sweater retails for $600+) and all within a comfortable price range ($100+ sweater and shirts; $200+ blazers; $300+ coats)

From a stylistic point of view, Massimo Dutti is a cross between Banana Republic (classic cuts) and J.Crew (colors and choice) paired with an European sensibility.

I bought a tweed & leather jacket and a silk tunic and wore them later in the evening to great acclaim. While I might not become a regular Massimo Dutti customer, I will definitely check out their recently opened Midtown NYC store  (their first venture in the US) and the exclusive-to-NYC limited edition collection. 

Massimo Dutti currently has over 270 stores in 23 countries. 
Luxembourg location: 37, Grand Rue, Luxembourg-Ville 

If you don't have a boutique in your area, shop online. 

(article first published on Gudde Moien Facebook page on October 19, 2012)

OP D’REES! (Paris – part 1)

Ah Paris, my home for so many years and the city of my ancestors (my genealogy traces back to three generations of Parisians). To say that I love the City of Lights would be an understatement. 

One of my guilty pleasures is shopping at the Para-pharmacy. These French drugstores are treasure troves stockpiled with top-notch, no nonsense creams, lotions, balms, sunscreen and heavenly perfumed soaps. Next to the now-ubiquitous brands like Caudalie, Nuxe, LaRoche Posay, T. LeClerc, Vichy, Embryolisse (lauded by every blogger worth his/her name in print) etc. you can find lesser known, no frill skin and health care products at very affordable prices. Luckily I visit Paris several times a year for business and pleasure which allows me to stock up regularly on my beauty products and discover new must haves.

First up, AMILAB:

I purchased the Baume a Levres (Lip Balm) and the Lait Corporel Peaux Normales et Seches (Body Lotion for Normal and Dry Skin). Both are terrific and at 3 resp. 9 € a bargain!!

- The lip balm has quickly become one of my favorites. It is very hydrating (I use it at night) with a light orange scent. A runner-up but not a substitute for my all time favorite Brew lip balm (read my review) from Skincando. 

- The body lotion for dry skin is non-greasy, absorbs quickly and leaves my skin soft to the touch. This is an effective moisturizer and a  great everyday lotion.

Amilab products can be found in most para-pharmacies f.ex. www.matroussapara.com  or www.amazon.com (US customers)  

Next, ROGE CAVAILLES:

I have rarely used traditional bar soap as I suffer from dry and hyper-sensitive skin prone to dehydration and irritation until I discovered Rogé Cavaillès Savon Surgras Extra Doux Amande Verte (Extra mild Green Almond Surgras Soap by Rogé-Cavaillès for sensitive skin)

“Specially formulated for washing sensitive and delicate skin while respecting the cutaneous integrity. Rogé Cavaillès is the historical brand for body hygiene. Acknowledged leader for more than 80 years, the brand has dedicated its expertise and seriousness to the quality of its products, for the care of sensitive skin.”

The scent is pleasant and not overpowering, my skin felt surprisingly soft and moist without the usual tightness. Well worth 4 € (very inexpensive compared to Kiehl's (a skincare company I am very fond of) and much more luxurious than US drugstore brands Eucerin or Aveeno.

Available at most para-pharmacies throughout France f.ex. www.lecomptoirsante.com

US customers: a limited range of Cavaillès products can be found on Amazon

Last but certainly not least, URIAGE:

I am a regular thermal water user regardless of the weather (within reason of course, I don't spray my face with water in sub-zero temperatures but limit the use to the indoors).

Having hypersensitive, Rosacea-prone skin means anything and everything can irritate my epidermis (too hot, too cold, too dry, etc.). Thermal water, in most cases, has a calming effect.

I have used for years La Roche-Posay, Avene and Vichy sprays to mixed results (some leave a film on my skin, others might dry it out) but when the cute French pharmacist recommended Uriage Eau Thermale pour Peaux Sensibles especially formulated for someone like me who also suffers from various allergies I immediately put it to the test. To my surprise, Uriage water calmed my Rosacea-induced flare-ups within minutes without leaving a sticky residue. It also helped me avoid major embarrassment when I suffered from a sudden sneezing attack in the middle of the cosmetics floor at Les Galeries Lafayette. Call me a convert, from now on only Uriage thermal spray will do.

From the Uriage website:

"For 20 years, Uriage Thermal Water has been packaged at the source to offer you its many benefits, every day!

Properties

Uriage Thermal Water is packaged at the source, in a clean room environment; with no added preservatives or fragrance, it fully retains its natural wealth and original purity.

Assets

Uriage Thermal Water is a skincare water for daily use, a powerful cure treatment of trace elements and minerals, a source of radiance for your skin.

A treatment water to moisturize

This is the only thermal spa water with moisturizing benefits, thanks to its high concentration in minerals similar to the skin’s NMF (Natural Moisturizing Factors).

A treatment water to relieve

Redness, irritation, diaper rash, minor surgical procedures, itching, sunburn, razor burn for men.

A treatment water to protect

With its anti-free radical power.

A treatment water to soften

Its filmogenic property leaves the skin soft and velvety-smooth.

A treatment water to improve makeup wear

In the morning and at any time of the day!"

6,20 € for 300 ml at www.monguidesante.com

US Customers can buy it at www.omorfiashop.com 

Model: Hannah S.; ALL RIGHTS RESERVED 

ECH SINN ZERECK! (Did you miss me?)

Copyright www.123rf.com

I finally returned from my various trips (Istanbul, Paris, Mexico and a hectic 24-hour-stay in Luxembourg). My team and I have posted regularly on the Gudde Moien Facebook page and kept you apprised of my/our latest discoveries, finds and impressions.

We are looking forward to sharing more incredible experiences with you.

  

MIR MUSSEN DORIWER SCHWAETZEN! (Let’s talk shop ..)

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At GUDDE MOIEN we believe in being fair, honest and transparent in our dealings with our readers, followers and advertisers.

The FTC (Federal Trade Commission) requires bloggers who review products to disclose any connection with advertisers, including, in most cases, the receipt of free products and whether or not they were paid in any way by advertisers (Blogs, Facebook, Twitter, etc.).

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THANK YOU FOR YOUR INTEREST!

BELLEG MAIS NET SCHLECHT! (Cheap thrills ..)

I am not a regular GAP customer but on a recent visit I discovered these super skinny twill camo pants for $59.95.

Camo is a print that can easily be incorporated with fall colors. These pants are stretchy, soft and very comfortable. They have zippers (leg opening) and fit more like leggings than pants.
This is a great pair for the $$ and they have been sold out in most stores

http://gap.us/TTWi9S

ENG WELL AFFAIRE! (Where the wild things are ..)

“I have never met a leopard print I didn’t like!” (Diana Vreeland, Editor-in-chief Vogue, (1903-1989) 

Here are my fall picks: (Note: No leopards were harmed in the making of these items)

Collage © 2012 TIMELESS PIECES,LLC. All copyrighted photos belong to their rightful owners 

1. J.Crew Leopard chiffon dress $288; 2. Lanvin Leopard encrusted enamel necklace at Browns $2,153; 3. J.Crew Leopard Bracelet $58/piece; 4. Wildfox Couture Leopard Spots Roadtrip sweater $117/piece; 5. Jil Sander Red Leopard Calf hair flats at Ssense $695; 6. Agent Provocateur Leopard Print calf hair driving gloves at Net-a-porter $500; 7. Alexander McQueen Green Leopard and Skulls printed silk scarf at Montaigne Market $425; 8. Kate Spade Show your spots ring $39 (sale); 9. Christopher Kane Leopard print leather clutch at Opening Ceremony $700; 10. Illesteva Leonard 2 Safari sunglasses $260; 11. Wallis Leopard print Ponte skirt $52.

AUS ITALIEN! (From Italy with love)

On a recent trip to Tuscany and Umbria (Italy) (more on this later), I came across these adorable key-holders in assorted shapes and styles, made of Tuscan leather by Italian craftsmen.   What makes them special is that they are entirely handmade using vegetable-tanned Vacchetta leather and featuring ancient stitching techniques (typical of this region).

These whimsical and unique key-ring ornaments make perfect host/hostess gifts and at this price (€8-10  - $13-$15/piece) are an affordable indulgence. 
Rather than using them for keys, I prefer hanging the charms on my bags as decoration (a popular custom in Japan and Italy).

I purchased the Coccinella (Lovebug) and the Corno Portafortuna (Italian red horn) for Good Luck, the Gallo Nero for a friend who is a wine aficionado (the black rooster is the symbol of Chianti Classico) and the Pinocchio for my little niece.

In case a trip to Siena or Florence is not in your cards anytime soon (although I highly recommend it) you can purchase the key-rings online at these stores:

http://bit.ly/ORx3Px

or here

http://bit.ly/TgnUTH

(article first published on Gudde Moien Facebook page August 8, 2012)

Until next time, 

DANZT NO MENGER PEIF! (Let’s dance ..)

“Dance like no one is watching. Sing like no one is listening. Love like you've never been hurt and live like it's heaven on earth.”

Video courtesy: Kowadiz -- "Wou gees de" (where are you going?) and YOUTUBE.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rv1G9RBXeyU 

VIR MECH! (Shoes are my drug of choice ... seriously..)

                                                   
GOOD LORD!! I almost fainted .... I MUST. GET. THESE!!  

I know, I know they look very ELVIS PRESLEY during his Las Vegas period but they are simply awesome.

Keep everything else simple, straightforward and monochromatic, your accessories to a minimum and let them (literally) shine.

Pair them with skinny pants, an INHABIT cashmere sweater and a Burberry coat.

Miu Miu Glitter-finished Chelsea boot Net-a-porter.com

http://bit.ly/Og923M  $750

ALL MENSCH GEET OP D’SCHUEBERFOUER! (Ticket to ride ..) 

Ever since I was a kid, August has been my favorite month of the year. It meant celebrating my birthday (and my brother's) (read: gifts, cakes and parties), unadulterated time with my Beloved Boma at her vacation house (read: pure happiness), eating copious amounts of ice cream, enjoying long summer days with no alarm clocks and most importantly a temporary escape from the drudgery of school. But the incontestable highlight of every August was a visit to the “Schueberfouer” (Shoo-ber-fhour), a large folk fair that takes place in the heart of Luxembourg City. This popular festival (originally a shepherd's market) was founded by John the Blind in 1340. You read correctly: this is the 672^nd Schueberfouer! Talk about a long-standing tradition. 

The “Fouer” for me was a veritable wonderland consisting of live pony carousels, antique merry-go-rounds, endless roller coasters, a giant Ferris wheel, novelty games, implausible carnival acts, a mesmerizing luna park, persistent street vendors, and too-numerous-to-count food merchants and restaurants, in other words, heaven!

Today it hosts over 270 attractions, is spread over 3.5 km (2 miles) and attracts about 2 million visitors.

A trip to the fairground was never complete without indulging in the regional specialties like “Gebakene Fesch” (baked fish), “Gromperkichelcher” (fried potato cakes), “Waffelen” (waffles with strawberries and whipped cream) and the ubiquitous nougat.

This funfair, emblematic of the city and the country, was an exciting, magical place for me as a child and even after all these years, I am happy to say, it has lost none of its luster.

Schueberfouer 2012
August 23 - September 11
Place du Glacis
Luxembourg-Ville

Video courtesy of Superjams featuring eXemo (all musicians from Luxembourg)  "All Mensch geet op d'Schueberfouer" (Everybody goes to the Schueberfouer)

DEI SINN FLOTT! (Sweater matter ..)

Washington, DC is not my fashion nirvana but it definitely has its share of new and upcoming designers.

One of my very favorite is Pico Vela, a high-end knitwear company founded by Nicole Alfieri. Nicole is no stranger to the fashion industry; before launching her own label, this Parsons School of Design graduate, has worked with national and international brands (I am very partial to the lovely tops and exquisite dresses she designed for PUA Naturally but more on that later).

Venturing into the knitting world was a natural move for this talented artist with her minimalistic approach and unfussy esthetic. The same sensibility she brought to designing her ethereal tops she now applies to her knit line.

Calling Pico Vela’s creations mere sweaters is not doing them justice. Not only are they beautifully crafted (knit on hand machines by a collective of artists in the US) with a real woman’s body in mind, they are also expertly executed, fashioned from the highest quality, natural-fiber yarn available (merino wool, linen, cotton, bamboo, etc). The easy-to-wear tops drape effortlessly and have just enough detail without being overly ornate or busy.

I don’t know about you, but I lust for one of her cocoon jackets (my love of cardigans is well documented  ...) and for a boxy sweater from the Fall/Winter collection.

Pico Vela designs can be found at these fine retailers and boutiques.

Prices range from $200 - $400 

For wholesale inquiries please contact Nicole through her website

Copyright © 2012 pico vela. All rights reserved.  www.picovela.com