Aubrey and Alla

A couple of nights ago I watched the 1923 silent movie depiction of 'Salome'. As if watching the majestic Alla Nazimova in motion wasn't enough, the sets and costumes were inspired by Aubrey Beardsley, who is probably my favourite artist/illustrator of all time. You can see his monochromatic influence throughout the movie, which more than makes up for in visuals what it lacks in sound.  Natacha Rambova is the lady behind the sets and costumes. She was a beauty herself, with impeccable taste.

You can watch the whole movie here. 

I went a little screen-capping crazy...

Promo shot of the pearl draped outfit which was impossible to screen-cap   

P.S. I'm aware I didn't blog all through the winter, I had lots going on! I moved into a new (old) flat late last year; decorated; bought the kitten of my dreams; and just recently became an Auntie. Things should calm down soon. 

France 2012

After a long absence, hopefully a somewhat normal service shall resume here at House of Harps. I've been busy finding, buying, decorating and moving into a new flat. We're nowhere near finished yet but I will try to find the time to update when I can. For now, a few snaps from my summer holiday to the south of France. The summer months aren't terribly exciting for me- I prefer the layers and warm colour palette of Autumn and Winter- but I did my best to maintain elegance during the intense heat!

^ the villa we rented came with a cat; pretty awesome idea. Mischka thoroughly enhanced the holiday.

^ trompe l'oeil paintings covered this town

^ my Zara sandals sparkled so much in the sunshine

^ really thin château 

^ spot of shopping in a 1920's fringed shawl converted into a blouse

^ pretty badass car... the couple driving around in this looked like they were having the time of their lives. 

^ inappropriate bikini shot... the water was so so blue

^ my boyfriends Liberty bug shirt I bought him for our anniversary.