Don't keep "beauty" for later: Live loud, live NOW
When I was a little girl, I was raised with the belief that I must keep some clothes or accessories for special occasions, that each human being on Earth should own at least a pair of "good" shoes or a suit, or anything that can be only worn, like on Sunday at church, while visiting some relatives or friends whom you might need to impress, at a school ceremony, etc.
That created in my mind the belief that only some days are worth being spent in these "good" clothes, that it is not allowed to wear a wonderful dress, those exquisite earrings, or that bracelet you love most on an ordinary day, without any "special occasion", just because you love life so much, you feel the urge to celebrate it daily. Or that I have to be nicely dressed for the others, not for myself.
I don't know if it's because I am almost 40, because I am a mother, or because, since living in the South of Spain, I have been exposed to different ways of slow living, not only through the eyes and hearts of the Spanish people—that means it's not only a matter of culture or nationality but mostly a matter of choice—but I am trying my best to live each day to the fullest.
Of course, that doesn't mean I don't have days when I feel down or when I can't find any joy; I am human, not a robot. Of course there are days when I have my hair looking like it hasn't been washed for a while and I am dressed like a "cave woman", but the best thing is that usually I like wearing items I absolutely love because they empower me.
And I really think that meaningful, beautifully crafted pieces (like jewellery, accessories, or garments) must become part of one's everyday rituals, not just on special occasions. They help you find beauty in everyday life, like small treasures that uplift your moments. If we are not living our lives with integrity and beauty, and if we are not unapologetic about who we are, then what are we even doing here?
We all love making memories; this is what life is about, right? So wear that dress; don't keep too much jewellery for a special occasion. Wear your favourite silk scarf even when you are wearing flip-flops on your feet, whether you are walking barefoot on the beach or doing some earthing on the ground. Put it on your head, around the neck, around your hat, or attach it to your bag. Make this moment, make NOW special. You are special every day; you owe it to yourself to celebrate yourself, to be your biggest cheerleader.
The joy of small luxuries: how living poetically
You might wonder: what do they have in common—nature, craftsmanship, and a countryside vibe? Oh, well, first of all, authenticity and simplicity—the kind that doesn't need to be shown off to be seen, the one that is crafted with soul and tradition, just like the jewellery and the silk scarf I am wearing, all of them signed by FREYWILLE, a 70-year-old brand that encourages an insatiable appetite for aesthetics and culture while also paying tribute to those to whom humanity owes a more beautiful world today that deserves to be treasured rather than simply worn. Something I truly and deeply respect.
A modern nomad: about the freedom of carrying beauty with you
Yesterday's experience with the van reminded me of our road trip to Spain. We only brought with us the essentials, and we realised once again, after the one year spent in France, that we are the kind of people who value less is more but make it high-quality and with a story to tell.
Although most people perceive clothing, jewellery, and accessories as frivolous, I believe they become an integral part of our identity, shape our narrative even before we speak, and possess the ability to empower us. This is why I am trying to only wear brands that are rooted in some values—that are created, not just made— and that are inspired by art, nature, and real people. I strive to wear items that embody the craftsmanship as a divine aspect of the human being.
P.S.: I really hope these photos are also working as manifesting since I have had a driver's licence for almost 10 years, but I am so afraid to drive. I love it, and I want it, but I somehow need to pass this fear of driving.
Many thanks to our dear French friend, Antoine, who allowed me to take these photos with and inside his van.
I am wearing the silk Gavroche scarf, Hommage à Claude Monet, FREY WILLE Monochrome bracelet and Ocean drops, L’amandier rouge éclat earrings.
Also #proudlywearingromaniandesigners @crinabulprich - Limoncello field 2.0 dress - and @decorina_hats.
Please, if you missed the discussion with Ana Maria Conache, Country Manager at FREY WILLE, you can read it here. Ana is also one of the women who inspire me.
In Bucharest, you can shop for your favourite FREYWILLE pieces at one of two stores: Calea Victoriei 63-81, Radisson Blu Hotel, Șos. București-Ploiești 42D Baneasa Shopping City. Of course, online too, here - shop.freywille.com/ro
*This article is part of a fantastic project with a brand that I deeply and truly admire: FREYWILLE.
