Blogger du Jour: Viva Luxury

Talk about inspiration! We were blown away when we stumbled upon the blog Viva Luxury by model Annabelle Fleur. This girl’s photos are, in a word, stunning, and her glam, luxurious (of course) yet playful look is so perfectly chic it makes us just a teensy bit jealous. We’re especially crushing on the way she flaunts sparkle for day and rocks a hi-lo hem.

We had to find out more about the beauty behind the blog, so we asked Annabelle to spill the deets on her style influences and share some fashion tips! 

Which Viva Luxury look is your fave?

Photographer credits: Emil S 

STYLUST: Who and/or what inspired you to start Viva Luxury?

ANNABELLE: A few years ago I was working with a wonderful footwear designer who always made comments about how much she liked the way I dressed. One day—I remember it like it was yesterday—we met at her studio, and she suggested I should start a fashion blog. Until that moment the thought never crossed my mind, and to be completely honest with you, I was somewhat reluctant at first. Yet her eternal optimism and energy were so infectious, I just couldn’t help getting inspired to start a blog. I think what solidified my decision to start blogging was something she liked to say, which was “Dare to dream, Annabelle; only those who do, succeed in this life.” I am eternally grateful to her for her advice, support and, of course, for believing in me.

STYLUST: Who and/or what inspires your personal style?

ANNABELLE: I was about 10 years old when I saw Breakfast at Tiffany’s for the first time. And it was certainly a pivotal point which helped to shape my sense of style. To me, Audrey Hepburn is an epitome of elegance and grace, and the fact that I prefer soft and feminine looks is in large part due to her influence.

STYLUST: What clothing piece would you consider a must-have in every girl’s closet?

ANNABELLE: A pair of great jeans is probably the most versatile piece of clothing. Easily updated with accessories to look fashionable, you can dress jeans up with a great blazer, pair of heels and a fabulous clutch or wear them with a pair of flats, slouchy cashmere tunic and a tote bag for a more casual approach.

STYLUST: What are some of your key warm-weather items?

ANNABELLE: For me, summer is all about color, versatility and lightweight fabrics. I am always on the lookout for a flowy dress, which I can throw over a bathing suit or dress up with a pair of heels. I am also completely addicted to silk tunics, preferably in bright colors, which look very chic thrown over a pair of skinny jeans or super casual paired with shorts and gladiator sandals. Finally, no summer wardrobe is complete without a pair of shorts, and with all the great color, texture and style variations Spring/Summer 2012 has to offer, for me, it’s the key warm-weather item, great for a day at the beach or a night out with my friends. 

Photographer credits: Emil S 

STYLUST: Do you have a pair of shoes you’re totally obsessed with?

ANNABELLE: Ah, that’s a tough one. To be completely honest with you, I am obsessed with all shoes in general. It seems I am always either in the process of buying a new pair or thinking about which ones I am going to get next. Over the years, I’ve acquired quite a substantial collection, which at this point threatens to take over my entire house. But if I had to think really hard, I would say that my favorite pair is Giuseppe Zanotti colorblock platform sandals, which are surprisingly comfortable despite the sky-high platform. Gorgeous and wearable is always a winning combination.

STYLUST: If you could live in any other decade, what would it be?

ANNABELLE: I think I am pretty partial to the ’50s. To me, the ’50s signify the return to femininity, luxury and elegance. When I was a little girl, I used to spend a lot of time with my grandmother. She was quite the fashionista and had an amazing collection of vintage jewelry and clothing. Her evening gowns from the ’50s were always my favorite. Beautifully constructed from silk chiffon and velvet, they were more than just dresses to me. Each dress came with a story about a party or celebration my grandmother attended, and I remember thinking the ’50s must have been the most magical time. 

STYLUST: What’s on your current playlist?

ANNABELLE: Completely obsessed with “Video Games” by Lana Del Rey and “Somebody That I Used to Know” by Gotye at the moment.

STYLUST: Any words of advice for someone looking to start their own blog?

ANNABELLE: Funny, I get this question a lot, because starting a blog may seem intimidating at first. So, the best advice I can give is to stay away from trying to obtain perfection from the very beginning. A blog is something that evolves and progresses with you and is rather reflective of your own growth. Getting too hung up on details may prove to be distracting and take all the fun out of the experience of blogging.

~ by bebe on May 17, 2012.