coffee + cre8tive {oct 9 '06}
Crisp autumnal air encircled me as I window shopped yesterday, coffee in hand, delighted with the carefully arranged displays at Noa Noa . Sundays are especially sacred in Germany because the week takes a well-deserved pause from the 6 busy days that preceeded it in preparation for the next. Sundays here are based on tradition - family, religion, togetherness, rest.
Whether it's sharing cake and coffee with your loved ones, visiting a museum, exploring paths in the forest, or strolling the near-empty streets with only a few cafes to welcome you inside, Sunday taps you on the shoulder and reminds you that it's time to reap what you've spent the whole week sowing. So relax and enjoy.
If you've not yet heard of Danish designers Lars and Harald Holstein of Noa Noa, prepare to fall deeply in love with their charming collection. Noa Noa produces two affordable collections every year for women and little girls, along with two smaller collections for Summer and Christmas. I was inspired to see their soft muted tones, emulating the natural beauty of Denmark, from its countryside to coast. Pastel hues of heather, plum, charcoal and pale blue paired with stronger ones in sunflower, fuschia, military green, even a slight appearance by black itself.
Peering into shop windows, I couldn't help but notice how many outfits can be translated into decor. I imaged the layered scarves held in place by a simple jeweled brooch as multiple flowing sheer panels, perhaps one in pale butter and the other in blue, held by a favorite patterned sash, a delicate brooch of clear crystals to accent.
Using your imagination is one of the easiest and most inexpensive ways to train your design eye and stimulate your creativity. The more imaginative you become, the better taste you will form. As you start to disect what you see, imagine it used in a different capacity altogether. You can simply edit something with your mind, reflecting on how you'd prefer it to be arranged, allowing your imagination to wander and expand. Freedom comes from frequently training and stimulating your imagination. Consider how creative children are, often is this not based upon thier lack of fear coupled with their rich imagination?
My motto: Look at everything differently - see more than what is simply laid before you. Imagine, believe, overcome, create, expand.
Noa Noa
Lister Meile 52
Hannover Germany
Tel: 0511/5687422
Partial collection is also available at clothing boutique Ey Linda, Lister Meile 31.
(images from noa noa)