oleh admin | Agu 12, 2024 | fashion and style, home decor, home decoration ideas, home design, interior design
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The late fashion icon from Chanel opened his own bookstore named 7L, which was replicated in The Karl Lagerfeld Hotel in Macau. Meanwhile, Pier Djerejian-Shiever, an interior stylist based in New York, consults for Hyatt and Rosewood hotels regarding books used as decorative items.
The selection of books you showcase in your living space reveals more than just your individual preferences; they also eloquently convey your sense of style and sophistication—pardon me for the play on words.
In Victorian times, having a lavishly filled library with numerous books represented the epitome of elegance for affluent homeowners. Today, however, owning a thoughtfully selected collection of coffee table books is considered indispensable in every tastefully decorated residence.
“Incorporating books into interior design isn’t novel; however, as individuals face overflow from their bookshelves or private collections, many have begun experimenting with coffee table displays within their living spaces. This trend has evolved and moved upscale, now seen in places such as high-end hotels,” explains Pier Djerejian-Shiever, a New York-based interior stylist who counts major hotel chains including Hyatt and Rosewood among her clientele.
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Books have become coveted items among both thinkers and connoisseurs. It’s common to see celebrities flaunting their personal libraries in publications such as Architectural Digest. The late fashion icon Karl Lagerfeld was an avid bibliophile who possessed more than 300,000 volumes; this passion led him to open his own bookstore named 7L. Prominent publishing houses like Assouline and Taschen have capitalized on the trend by producing visually appealing yet educational books designed to enhance both public and private settings.
“Books serve as powerful visual indicators of a homeowner’s areas of interest. They instantly convey information about someone’s passions… acting as a discreet but potent means of influencing others’ perceptions of the individual,” explains Valeriane Moyersoen, the international sales director at Taschen.
As books have transformed into more of a decorative element, crafting the ideal coffee table “display,” as Djerejian-Shieber refers to it, requires some skill. Although personal preferences should guide your choices and can encompass various subjects like art, design, fashion, and cuisine, aesthetic aspects are just as crucial.
Just like a well-organized library typically sorts books by alphabetical order, subject, or author, there’s usually some method to the arrangement. However, with your coffee table collection, anything goes. It has become trendy to organize or pile up books according to color or size — think of those eye-catching travel-themed volumes from Assouline that create striking visual displays perfect for social media posts. Yet, professionals recommend opting for a more natural and unforced appearance instead.
Alexandre Assouline, who leads operations, branding, and strategy for Assoulin, expresses his fondness for “a structured form of disarray.” He enjoys assembling various groups while deliberately disregarding norms through the use of varying dimensions and hues.
He enjoys placing various objects next to his books, arranging them either horizontally or vertically. This method introduces an eclectic and aesthetically pleasing component to the space, resulting in a vibrant and distinctive presentation.
Although candles and home scents are common choices, additional suggestions encompass petite plants or blossoms to introduce elevation and vibrancy. Meanwhile, ceramics and various art pieces can further reflect your individuality. Djerejian-Shieber suggests incorporating board games into the mix if room permits—these frequently encourage dialogue and interaction just as effectively as reading materials do.
“The coffee table plays a central role in the social area. When advising my clients, I recommend they view the table from above to grasp its size and proportions more effectively. It’s important not to make the table feel overcrowded since functionality remains crucial. Ultimately, you should ensure there’s enough room for a drink,” she explains.
If you have enough area, books can function not only as decor for coffee tables or bookshelves but also as functional elements within the room. A popular trend involves arranging them into stacked columns that highlight significant items like fireplaces. You could place a piece of wood over these piles to create a temporary console table. Additionally, they can act as chic platforms to lift up decorative pieces on shelves, including statues, potted plants, or vases.
There’s no need for your book collection to be limited to living rooms or libraries. Today, many individuals are displaying their favorite reads in unconventional spots like kitchens and even bathrooms. Professionals recommend selecting lighter fare for these zones, such as Taschen’s Gourmand Series.
Djerejian-Shiever mentions how delightful it is to find cookbooks or any literature related to cuisine nestled among piles of mugs and dishes in the kitchen. Joke books and travel guides make perfect additions to the bathroom shelves. Whenever visitors stop over, he enjoys handpicking several books they can flip through during their downtime in the guestroom.
Finally, feel free to shake things up and alter your displays periodically.
“Never bore, always excite” remains one of my favorite mantras, and I consider it both significant and applicable to modern-day design,” explains Moyersoen. “Books ought not to remain static or collect dust; instead, they should be regarded as dynamic entities that you can rearrange however you wish. It’s perfectly fine to display a book prominently, enjoy discovering it, grow tired of it over time, place it on a shelf, and swap it out for something else—only to perhaps revisit and rediscover it again in the future.”
Suggestions for arranging your books at home
1. Older and hard-to-find books appear more natural, adding character to your bookshelves, whereas novels can bring additional charm to your displays.
2. Rather than using color-coded displays, try out a monochromatic scheme or opt for books featuring distinctive textures or cover designs.
3. Do not dismiss bookends; they enable experimentation with various heights and depths, and are available in contemporary materials like acrylic.
4. Merge vertical and horizontal spines for a more haphazard appearance.
5. Convert your bookshelf into a display stand for various decorative items.
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oleh admin | Jun 12, 2024 | fashion & style, fashion and style, hairstyles, natural hair, women's fashion and style
Ladies love trying out new things with their tresses. These explorations usually have underlying reasons and vary across different phases in their lives. Should you find yourself in an era where embracing your natural locks is the trend, consider it fortunate as numerous styles await discovery. The initial move towards this journey involves mastering the art of styling your natural hair impressively.

The majority of natural hairstyles can be classified as protective styles. Nonetheless, prior to selecting a protective style, it’s essential to understand that maintaining healthy hair involves more than just choosing an appropriate hairstyle—it also depends on your diet and the products you use. With this in mind, what is the best way to manage your natural hair?
Ways to Style Natural Hair
Regardless of whether you opt for updos, twists, braids, tapered haircuts, or mohawks, ensure each style appears neat so as to appear graceful. Consider these top hairstyles suitable for natural hair; they may just make you adore your tresses even more:
1. High puff
Looking to enhance your natural hair? A high puff is a simple wash-and-go style for those who love their natural locks. If you’ve got longer hair, it should easily fall into place. For individuals with shorter hair, adding extensions of similar texture can help achieve this look.
2. Braid out
This is an awesome hairstyle if you’re bored with straightening your locks. The curls stand out and add visibility. You don’t have to stress over the length or texture of your hair since various hair types lend a unique appearance to all individuals.
A key guideline for maintaining this hairstyle is to ensure your hair is well-moisturized each time you step out of the door.
3. Creating flat twists followed by a twist-out style

If you’ve had the big chop and are now beginning to grow out your short hair, consider trying flat twists followed by a twist-out. This hairstyle is simple to upkeep and can last longer than anticipated. Additionally, it doesn’t require much effort when getting ready to go out since properly executed twists won’t come undone easily.
4. Twaid out

Have you ever considered combining twists and braids? Twaidouts might be just what you’re looking for. Begin bybraiding your hair and then transition to twist-outs halfway through. These styles are both comfy and versatile, suitablefor laid-back environments as well as more formal occasions. To keep everything neat in dressier settings,tie your hair back using a ribbon.
5. Low puff
Minimal puff styles are perfect for women seeking a subtle yet elegant appearance. This haircut is versatile as it complements any ensemble. To achieve this style, simply give your hair a thorough washing, gently brush through it, and apply some gel.
The great part is that you don’t need a stylist for this since numerous online videos can provide guidance.
6. Box braids

Box braids will remain faithful to you and enable you to style yourself in whatever way you prefer every morning.
All African American women concur that box braids fall into the category of ‘go-to’ styles that they opt for periodically. They represent the epitome of natural hairstyles for Black women.
7. Natural tapered cut

Achieve that sleek tapercut and keep the sides neat, and you might just rediscover your affection for shorter locks. Many dismiss this style due to the common belief among women that it requires significant upkeep and suits only specific hair types. However, this is truly one of the top short natural hairstyles for African American women.
8. Hairstyle with curls swept to one side

African American women have an advantage since even simple hairstyles can appear sleek with minimal effort. To get a neat side-parted Afro, simply brush your hair and use either a curl sponge or curly lotion to add definition. There’s nothing quite as stylish as a naturally beautiful Afro adorned with tight curls.
9. Afro
Can anything be more effortless or delightful than sporting an afro? It truly embodies authenticity, femininity, and naturality. Simply rinse, apply some oil, and let it be. The afro style ensures you make a statement. People admire your locks and celebrate the allure of African hair.
10. Flat twists updo

If you’re dealing with thinning hair, consider trying a flat-twist updo; you’ll be grateful to the natural hair deities. This style is ideal for women with shorter locks, especially those who prefer more natural appearances.
11. Bantu knots

Bantu knots are delightful. They captivate with their ability to transform an individual’s look completely. Whether they’re petite or large, tight or loose, these hairstyles embody femininity and all its nuances. Whenever you spot someone wearing Bantu knots, understand that she embraces her identity and celebrates the allure of textured hair.
12. Natural flat twists

Natural flat twists are popular protective styles for Black women who prefer something less elaborate. Add an intriguing twist by incorporating horizontal sections alongside the standard vertical ones.
13. Afro puff
Wear that afro puff with confidence, treating it like a professional hairstylist would, and enhance its style by sweeping it to one side. Afro puffs are simple to create; all you need is a comb and some hair product. If your hair is short, opt for an extension that complements your natural hair color and texture.
14. Senegalese twists

If you’re an avid follower of box braids, then you’re aware that her twin sister, Senegalese braids, offers similar style benefits. In many cases, Senegalese braids outshine box braids due to their ease of installation and removal.
15. Blow out
Are you looking to make your fine hair seem fuller and more voluminous? Consider trying out this blowout technique. It’s been popular across the last fifty years and continues to be favored by many African-American women. This hairstyle also works well with wavy locks.
16. Multi-coloured braids

Enhance your hairstyle with over three vibrant colors in braids. This look benefits from larger braids, making them stand out even more. Opt for the most vivid shades available if you desire maximum attention. Smaller braids offer versatility, such as incorporating a bob haircut style.
17. Mini twists

This style is considered timeless, particularly for those who like relaxing at home or casually strolling through their neighborhood. Mini twists can be characterized as both straightforward and stylish. When properly cared for, they stay tidy and presentable.
18. Inverted cornrows

Step away from traditional cornrows and discover the allure of inverted cornrows. This style offers one of the most effortless appearances and demands minimal upkeep. Consider trying this hairstyle if you prefer easy-to-manage, brief, and authentic hairstyles for African American women.
Upside-down cornrows should be braided tightly so they do not loosen after just a few days. Additional accessories like beads or thread are unnecessary because your hair creates the finest cornrows when left in its original state and untouched by straightening tools.
19. Perm rod set
A wavy and springy hairstyle can make you feel feminine and light-hearted. Opt for a perm rod set to display your locks at their fullest volume. This method is ideal particularly if you prefer avoiding direct heat from hot rollers or a curling iron.
A permed hairstyle featuring blonde or golden tips can enhance your appearance. This is among the simple and natural hair options for African-American girls.
20. Undercut cornrows

Thin at the top and voluminous below, undercut cornrows lead to an impressive cascade of curls. This style cleverly uses the contrast created beneath for visual effect, with the arrangement of braids forming a striking design. Adding some loose strands on the sides can enhance its appeal even further.
21. Micro braids

If someone decides to get these braids, they should be prepared to wait. Each braid has to be precise, smooth, and uniform in size. When done by a skilled hairstylist, your braids will be versatile enough for dressy occasions as well as casual events.
If you’re looking for a durable hairstyle that can last for an extended period, micro braids are ideal. They offer simplicity both in styling and maintenance, particularly when it comes to keeping your edges healthy and well-maintained.
22. Afro-centric Bantu knots using natural hair

Various styles can be achieved with Bantu knots, such as positioning them at the forehead area while letting your natural hair cascade down at the rear. This dual-purpose look ensures all eyes will follow you around. Enhance this style further by adding some beads for decoration.
23. Braided bun

A woven chignon atop your head is an essential for every woman. It enhances both your visual appeal and personal style. These intricate updos transform your hairstyle into something decidedly more sophisticated than usual.
Final word
The art of styling Afro-textured hair is both fascinating and captivating. With countless styles to draw inspiration from, each caters to different textures found among Black women’s hair. Relax; if you’re considering how to manage your natural curls, rest assured there’s a look suitable for every individual.
LIFEHACK.co.ke posted an article featuring stylish cornrow braids for men seeking a contemporary yet classic hairstyle. Cornrows have gained significant popularity lately, notably within the realms of fashion and mainstream media.
Cornrows offer such versatility that numerous factors should be considered when choosing an appropriate style for someone. Therefore, what are the top cornrow designs suited for men? Discover them here.