Chanel pearl necklace

The only faux pearls I would consider wearing are from Chanel. I am not a huge fan of Majorica pearls even though they are supposedly good quality man-made pearls (in other words ... faux!). But there is just something special and inexplicable with Chanel pearls. It could well maybe that I just adore the CC logo with the little faux pearls inticately placed in the logo. Chanel pearls are made of glass, not plastic, and are coated several times to give you a sheen similar to real quality cultured pearls.

Chanel pearls come in different sizes and styles. With each season comes a new creation. I personally prefer the classic long single strand that goes just right above the belly button. The pearls are of varying sizes and the CC logo and lock comes in either silver or gold plated. This style of necklace can easily be dressed up or down and goes perfectly with jeans and a T-shirt ... très chic!

With proper care, Chanel pearls can last a lifetime.

For a peek at the various Chanel pearl necklaces this season, visit www.chanel.com

Bottega Veneta Montaigne Bag

For those of you looking for an everyday bag, I highly recommend the Bottega Veneta Montaigne woven bag. It's mostly a handheld bag, but the handles could be adjusted for different lengths so that you can also put it on your shoulders (that is if you're not wearing a coat ... otherwise, you have to be quite skinny). The side flaps can also be unclasped so that the bag becomes bigger, and I personally prefer it that way! The Montaigne is a good size as you can easily put all your everyday necessities, including a small bottle of water, a book and, if you're like me, an umbrella! Lined in suede leather, the Montaigne has a zipped pocket inside and another pocket to hold your mobile phone. In addition, the Montaigne has five "feet" at the bottom, which is really good to avoid dirt and scratches. The Montaigne also comes with a lock and a clochette to add a bit of character.

I tried the Montaigne in different colors: ebano (dark brown), noce (light brown), magnolia (light pink) and quarzo (pink). I personally prefer the ebano as it is such a versatile color. However, the magnolia and quarzo are perfect for spring and summer. I just wish that they also make it in limo (grey-etoupe).

Service at Bottega Veneta is also excellent (I purchased my Montaigne at the Bottega Veneta boutique in Zürich)! I initially bought another bag, but it had a bit of a problem. The personnel were very apologetic and ensured me that they wanted me to be happy with my purchase. I then decided to get the Montaigne instead of the other style and I am really quite content with the overall experience.

Even though the woven leather makes Bottega Veneta bags appear delicate, they hold extremely well over time. I have another woven bag and a wallet that have been through everything and have used for several years. They are still in perfect condition!

For more information, visit www.bottegaveneta.com

Ballet shoes made for walking

If you're looking for comfortable shoes for walking, Pretty Ballerinas offers high quality ballet shoes in different colors, designs and leathers. One of my favorite designs is the Natassia (see photo). I personally have these and they are extremely comfortable. Many trendsetters talk about London Sole or French Sole as the epitome of fashionable ballet walking shoes and think that other companies are just copycats. Pretty Ballerinas, however, belongs to the Jaime Mascaro group that already started to manufacture hand-made ballet shoes since 1918 in the tiny mediterranean island of Menorca, Spain. I would consider Pretty Ballerinas as the Spanish counterpart of Parisian ballet shoe maker Repetto.

You can order Pretty Ballerinas online at their website www.prettyballerinas.com. Shipping to Europe costs only 10€ and takes about one week. Shoe sizes range from 35-42 and certains models also come in children sizes and adults sizes 43-44.