Merci, Paris / Aurelie Bidermann

An indigo storm hit me as I walked into Merci, Paris, birds flying in a beautiful space circled indigo blue clothing, table wear, napkins, and cushions. Its not often that a theme, or colour can take over very large space, spanning over anything you could wear or use in the home, but at Merci nothing is impossible. I wouldn't say that the essence of the store is something that I personally identify with, as it is neither harsh, angular, slick, glossy or alternatively ornate and vintage, which is the styles I prefer and often like to contrast in one image, image or vision, however I can see that Merci has huge appeal and is great for the modern disconcerning customer. Definitely worth a visit if you are in the area.







I loved these gold Cowry earrings by Aurelie Bidermann. Cowrie shells are are often used in jewellery, associated with the beach but also symbolic of money. The shells were used for centuries as a currency in Africa. Huge amounts of Maldivian cowries were introduced into Africa by western nations during the period of slave trade. The Ghanaian unit of currency known as the Ghanaian cedi was named after cowry shells. Starting over three thousand years ago, cowry shells, or copies of the shells, were used as Chinese currency. They were also used as means of exchange in India. The Classical Chinese character for money originated as a stylized drawing of a cowrie shell. Also they are also viewed as symbols of womanhood, fertility, birth and wealth. The symbolism of the cowry shell is associated with the appearance of its underside: the lengthwise opening makes the shell look like a vulva or an eye. There are alot of hidden signs in life, so next time you pick up one of these on the beach on holiday...its not just a shell!