Some recommendations to cover a couple of senses, since I am busy with work, applying to universities and planning out my life in general. Reading, listening to music and visiting museums and cultural events tend to relax my brain and have me see matters in a more logical and clear manner.

–This John Hopkin’s The Art of Chill is perfect on a spring evening with a glass of wine, an afternoon picknick in the park or just in the tram on one’s way to work for all the regular Joe’s among us (…like me!).

Also, these pictures of Sofia Coppola are a treat to the eye, as she is an inspiration on defining style and staying true to one’s self.

This New York Times article shows the author’s favourite streets in twelve cities in Europe. A witty read with breathtaking visuals of some of the finest places in Europe (I agree with the choice of Madrid).

For my fellow Amstellodamois; the Matisse ‘Oase’ exhibition in the Stedelijk Museum is a beautiful and tasteful selection of some of Matisse’s most colourful paintings, set up in a manner reminiscent of the last Matisse exhibition in the MoMa. Go early to avoid crowds and children on a school trip.

If you’re just as much as a voyeur like me (alas, I admit) then these Vanity Fair ‘My Stuff’ articles are a pleasant read.

I’ve finished The Marriage Plot by Jeffrey Eugenides not too long ago and found the story modern, refreshing and a realistic take on the double-layered intertwining relationships that people have.

I am currently obsessed with Haruki Murakami’s IQ84; the chilly writing and obscure plot make me want to finish it in an instant.

Spring wardrobe dissection

Life certainly catches up with you when you least expect it. After having been in a rut for the last couple of days due to wanting to completely overthrow my life I have settled down again a bit and can focus again on the day-to-day passing of things. Anyhow, I have tidied and re-arranged my wardrobe and have noticed that I still own too many pieces of clothing, half of them which I really do not need. Whether it is sentimental, or rather aesthetic I just happen to clog them in my wardrobe, making it look unnecessarily full. I plan on selling heaps over the summer, but here is where lack of time chimes in unfortunately.

So, to come back on the topic of my wardrobe; I have lately only invested in three basics, all of those three basics to be honest. First piece is a navy blazer by A.P.C., which I’ve found online and would be a staple piece in my wardrobe. Second object of purchase is a black cashmere jumper, which is an upgrade of my wool black jumper that is falling apart. Third purchase is a black Chanel pantalon which I’ve found online for quite a steal and is perfect for smart wear and also my first real black pantalon.

Since all three items happen to be basics that I actually wear for work I wonder if I should count them in my five items I want to buy for spring. Since I prefer being a bit strict I will, leaving me with two other items I can invest in if I feel the need.