Black Swan

I finally got to see Black Swan this weekend... and it lived up to expectations. Dark but beautiful. I had been waiting to see it for a little while and it definitely didn't disappoint! Some seriously creepy and unnerving scenes, not what you would initially expect from a film about a subject so elegant and beautiful as ballet. The genius way in which some scenes were shot, made you nervous about things so small as clipping fingernails. The costumes were stunning too, designed by Kate and Laura Mulleavy of Rodarte -lucky Miss Portman! (who by the way was absolutely perfect)

note. I will never pick my fingernails again!

(Source: Black Swan, illustrations by Rodarte)

Harper's Bazaar

Harper's Bazaar is not my usual choice of glossy, but after a quick flick through I couldn't resist it's totally beautiful editorial spreads.

I really love the expressive use of typography throughout, particularly within the title pages of a number of the features, for example 'The Firth Factor' (which reminds me I MUST watch A Single Man). I think the experimental mixture of upper and lower case with italic and roman type is very interesting, it gives the pages a real style and edge whilst maintaining a sophisticated look.

I was also drawn to the S/S Collection pages which uses the most stunning location and vibrant colours, making me hungry for some sunshine! (photography by Norbert Schoerner)

In the bottom image I have picked out some pages which demonstrate the lovely use of a graphic device, which is like a signature to the magazine. Used for framing titles, bits of information or simply as a decorative interest. It is used both in full and in part, and in blocks of colour, or multiplied over an image. An unusual shape, and really lovely touch.

(Source: Harper's Bazzar Feb 2011)

Cupcakes

Yum.

Books for 2011

Now, I'm not a big one for new years resolutions, but I do plan to read more books this year! Since leaving uni I have really missed having access to hundreds of design books, so I think its about time I grew my personal library. These are a few I am particularly keen to get my hands on ...