This spring feels different for me fashion-wise, and honestly, I think it’s because this is the first season where I actually understand what truly suits me. If you missed my blog post about finding your personal color blueprint, definitely read it because it completely changed the way I look at clothes, makeup, jewelry and overall style. Once I figured out my color type, suddenly everything started making sense. I realized I naturally look and feel better in soft muted tones like dusty rose, ivory, olive green, cream, blue-gray and gentle pink shades, and surprisingly, I stopped buying black almost completely. For years I thought black was the safest and most elegant option, but now I can clearly see that softer colors make me look more alive, fresher and honestly more like myself. My wardrobe this spring is basically turning into one big palette of muted pinks and soft neutrals and I am completely obsessed with it.

I’ve been ordering pieces lately (from Vinted mostly!) that really reflect the kind of style I genuinely enjoy instead of just trends I see online. I love this mix of minimalism with personality. A little bit boho, a little bit hippie, a little bit old money elegance, but still very personal through accessories, jewelry and the small details that make an outfit feel individual. And honestly, at 36 I finally feel like I’m becoming who I was always supposed to be, not only as a person but fashion-wise too. There’s something really freeing about understanding yourself better and no longer trying to fit into aesthetics that never fully felt natural. I want my outfits to feel effortless, soft, feminine and lived in, not overly styled or forced. Right now the weather still doesn’t fully allow me to wear all these spring outfits outside yet, so for now this is more of a little preview of the vibe before actual spring arrives. If you want to see more, check out my Instagram for fashion reels or TikTok where I’ve been posting outfits together with little quotes and thoughts I’ve been loving lately. Now let me show you the vibe before spring finally catches up with my wardrobe. 🌷

XO, Zuzi 💋

There’s something about French girls that feels almost unfair. As if they were born with a quiet manual the rest of us never received. They somehow know how to look great even on their worst days. Feminine without trying to be sexy. Chic without being polished. Magnetic without being loud. No heavy makeup, no performance, no urgency to be desired – just presence.

Lately, that presence has become my icon. My current ideal. The nonchalant French girl who knows exactly what she’s doing and doesn’t need anything fake to feel bomb. 💣 It didn’t really start with a haircut, but the haircut made it visible. My hair was damaged, tired, overworked, so I cut it. A refresh on the surface, but underneath it felt like a reset. A quiet decision to let go of something that no longer felt like me.

In therapy, my therapist asked why the change, why the cut. I gave her the practical answer first – damaged hair, a need for refresh. Then the real one followed almost without thinking: I don’t feel like a sex symbol anymore, I feel like a French girl. She smiled and said it was interesting, because French girls somehow just know how to look feminine and magnificent even without makeup. And that, she said, is a sex symbol itself.

That sentence stayed with me. Somewhere along the way, we got it wrong. We learned that femininity had to be loud, perfected, exaggerated, consumable. That being desirable meant being constantly on, constantly performing softness, beauty, effort. Filtered, polished, explained. We didn’t lose our sensuality – we outsourced it. Overthought it. We got lobotomized.

The French girl doesn’t ask for permission to be attractive. She doesn’t chase validation or perform confidence. She doesn’t try to be effortless – she simply allows things to be a little undone. She walks, exists, lets herself take up space without apology. And that’s exactly where I find myself right now.

I’ve been strolling through Prague with a new camera, capturing small moments – a coat falling just right, messy hair in cold air, a beret, reflections in windows, quiet streets. No posing, no trying, just observing. Just being. I think I’ve found myself in this look, in this energy. Less “look at me,” more “I know.” Less sex symbol, more woman. And paradoxically, that feels more powerful than anything I’ve worn before.

I met an old friend the other day. We chatted for a bit, nothing deep, just life in passing. And when we said goodbye, he paused, looked at me, and said: “Wow, I love this era for you. Very ‘I cut my hair and remembered who I am.’ Chic, reflective, a little rebellious. Very French-girl-who-knows.” And honestly, that might be the most accurate mirror I’ve been handed in a long time.

XO, Zuzi

You know when you have an outfit all picked out, ready for the stylish weekend... and then the sky decides it’s not on your side? Yeah, that was me this weekend. I had this look lined up for a cute outing, maybe a stroll, maybe a little espresso date. But nope, the rain came down like it was something personal (you OK, heaven?). But did that stop me? Pfft. Please. As if.
Cue: fashion moment, but make it indoors. 🔥

This week, I met up with my fellow content creator friend for a little coffee date and cute snaps — just how we like it. We specifically met up with the plan to take some nice analog pics, and oh my god, we ended up at the most wonderful Japan-themed café in Prague 6 called Café SOFA. We had never been there before, and I’m telling you — it was the best decision. The space? Super spacious and cozy, you literally get your own little bubble at your table. It didn’t feel crammed or loud at all. The staff was kind, and I ordered a sakura strawberry matcha which was just as dreamy as it looks! 🌸🍓💚 Total 10/10 experience for a first visit. (Play this as you scroll — it’s the vibe.)

Hello my lovely readers! 💛

Today is officially the warmest day of the year so far — a glorious 29°C (that’s 84°F for my American friends!) — and I could feel the summer just begging to be welcomed. Naturally, I reached for an outfit that perfectly matches this energy: sunny, soft, fresh, and just a little bit playful.

The weather’s finally warming up and it’s starting to feel like summer is tiptoeing in, isn’t it? This past weekend, I found myself gravitating toward my comfy, airy dress—the kind you just want to float around in when you’re at home, windows open, and the breeze smells like green things waking up. Light, breathable fabrics have been saving me lately—linen, soft cotton, gauzy blends that feel like wearing a gentle cloud. One of those lazy afternoons, I threw on one of the new necklaces I just made—amber-colored mineral chips with this adorable little golden starfish. I was showing it to my boyfriend in the living room and next thing I know, he’s casually clicking away with the camera he just happened to be holding (as he does). And honestly? The snaps turned out kinda cute. Totally unplanned, but that’s when the best stuff happens, right?

I love when jewelry can be the focal point of a simple outfit. This necklace is such a statement piece. It totally elevated my easy home look—just a flowy dress, no shoes, messy hair, and a piece that sparkles just enough. I’ll share the photos below so you can get a peek. If you’re curious to see more of the pieces from ViolkaBeads, come hang out with me on Instagram. And if you don’t see the one you’ve fallen in love with on my Etsy, just shoot me a direct message. I’m happy to ship worldwide and I love connecting with people over a shared love of sparkly things. ✨

Last summer, we discovered the hidden gem that is Rab, Croatia – a place where the crystal-clear waters and radiant coastlines offer the perfect backdrop for unforgettable summer memories. This stunning island gave us a blend of adventure and pure relaxation, from serene bike rides through lush parks to stumbling upon secluded beaches where the only footprints in the sand were ours. 💙 

One of our favorite moments was stumbling upon a secret beach at the end of a beautiful bike ride through a coastal park. With the sun shimmering on the Adriatic Sea and the gentle sound of waves in the distance, it felt like a scene from a dream. It was the perfect spot for a spontaneous jewelry photoshoot, where I got to showcase one of my handcrafted pieces from the ViolkaBeads summer collection. 🌺✨

This long necklace, with its vibrant beads and summer vibes, is a true statement piece – perfect for pairing with a bikini for a beach day or layering with a flowy sundress for those dreamy sunset dinners. The best part? I just recently listed this unique piece on my Etsy shop again! But be quick, because every piece I create is one-of-a-kind, crafted with love and a bit of wanderlust. 💫

There’s something magical about slipping into a vintage white dress – the kind that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a sun-drenched, bohemian daydream. My latest find is this gorgeous vintage white ruffle dress with intricate lace details, which I recently snagged on Vinted. It’s originally from an American boutique, used just once for a photoshoot – a size M, but it fits me perfectly, just the way I love it: a little flowy, a little boho, and oh-so-romantic. I paired it with my new ViolkaBeads pieces - a brand I’m sure you all know by now). The delicate, ocean blue-inspired pieces – both the earrings and the necklace – add that perfect touch of charm. You can find them on Etsy, and trust me, they have a way of making even the simplest outfits feel special.

Vintage dress from Vinted, ViolkaBeads jewelry. 

At the beginning of last week, I introduced you to one of my two new swimsuits—now, here’s the second one! Green and blue, two iconic colors that, to me, evoke the essence of a luxurious Summer. Just like the first two-piece, I paired this set with another Violka beaded necklace and bracelets—yes, my own handmade jewelry line, where every piece is unique. I can’t wait to rock this blue beachwear this season, and hopefully, I’ll have plenty of opportunities to do so! For a beach cover-up, I’ll go with either a crisp white shirt or a breezy white cotton kimono. And of course, don’t forget the essentials—sunglasses to protect your eyes and plenty of sunscreen! Do you wear jewelry to the beach? I’d love to know! 💙✨

The Timeless Appeal of Vintage Swimwear: Why Elegance Always Wins Over Trends

In a world of ever-changing fashion, vintage swimwear remains a statement of timeless elegance. Choosing a retro-style bikini isn’t just about wearing a swimsuit—it’s about embracing a legacy of sophistication, confidence, and effortless charm. When you slip into a vintage-inspired bikini, you're channeling an era when glamour was effortless, and fashion celebrated the female form with grace rather than excess. Think of Marilyn Monroe’s iconic high-waisted bikinis, Brigitte Bardot’s playful polka-dot swimsuits, or Elizabeth Taylor’s sultry yet refined beach looks. These women exuded confidence not because they revealed more, but because they carried themselves with an aura of mystery and class.

Want to Chase the Sun with a Retro Flair? Here’s My Go-To Styling Formula. 🌞 

The first warm sunrays of Spring are finally here, and I can feel Summer calling my name! There’s nothing quite like that shift in the air—longer days, golden-hour magic, and the excitement of planning beachside escapes. My style is always evolving, and this year, I’m leaning into an elegant, vintage-inspired swimwear aesthetic that feels less like a simple swimsuit and more like a statement outfit.

For my first sun-soaked moment of the season, I’m slipping into a retro-chic swimsuit that gives me all the Old Hollywood glamour vibes. The silhouette is timeless, sophisticated, and something I can easily pair with my favorite wardrobe staple—a crisp, basic white shirt. Not only is it effortlessly stylish, but it’s also super practical for sun protection. Pro tip: on especially hot days, I dip my white shirt or tee into the ocean before throwing it back on, and let me tell you—instant refreshment! 💦

Thrifted Finds and Holiday Vibes ✨🎅

I hope everyone had an amazing Christmas and is still soaking up the peaceful holiday vibes as we countdown to the New Year! This in-between time is perfect for reflecting, relaxing, and enjoying the magical coziness of winter. Are you planning a getaway for New Year’s? Maybe heading to the mountains for some winter sports, or keeping it low-key with family and friends? Whatever your plans, I hope they’re filled with warmth and joy. Speaking of warmth, let’s talk winter outfits. Recently, I styled a look that perfectly matched the enchanting winter wonderland around me. Picture this: trees covered in a frozen mist, their branches sparkling like crystal in the minus-degree weather. The vibe was pure magic. ❄️

I wore a cozy cable-knit cream sweater with buttons that give it a subtle vintage charm. Paired with black tights, knee-high boots to keep me warm, and my favorite thrifted vintage coat, the outfit struck the ideal balance of style and functionality. To top it off, I added a pair of uniquely shaped gifted earrings and cute black earmuffs—because, let’s face it, not everyone loves hats, but nobody wants cold ears!

So... Everything is almost ready at home. ✨ I’ve baked some traditional cookies, decorated the house, and I’m currently watching Some Like It Hot. The holiday spirit is in full swing, and I’m so excited to have a peaceful Christmas this year—hopefully. It’s on my terms, somewhat, without the family gatherings that often stress me out, so it should be nice and cozy. I won’t lie; sometimes I feel sad that I don’t want to spend the holidays with my family. But I can’t help it. If you know, you know. If you don’t truly want something from the bottom of your heart, you shouldn’t force it because, in the end, it will always backfire. I feel like the progress I've made in therapy could easily be undermined, and I would end up feeling like I'm back at square one when I'm at my parents' house. If that makes sense. 

But I’m fine; I really am. 🥂 I’m definitely not crying in the corner, reminiscing about what could have been. I’m creating my own reality, and this year, I baked Christmas cookies with such ease. I ordered all my gifts online and simply picked them up at the local post office. Easy! I also treated myself to some cute clothes for the season. Although I still have to watch my diet after experiencing food poisoning at the beginning of December, I’m focused on buying healthy foods and taking plenty of vitamins. I’m slowly becoming the person I want to be—the person I needed as a friend while growing up and learning to adult. I’m starting to be okay with myself and my needs and routines. And that, my friends, is the greatest gift I could give myself this Christmas.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned this year, it’s definitely the power of manifestation—how much of what happens in our lives stems from the energy we put out into the world. One day, while riding a tram in Prague, I came across some photos of Marilyn Monroe. I remember thinking, Wow, what a beauty. That iconic look! I wish I could embody even a fraction of her elegance and femininity. Maybe I should try curls? Maybe I should embrace a more classic, glamorous style? Her timeless allure was simply captivating. Fast forward to the next day: I was sitting in a job interview, and I got the position. A few weeks later, an email landed in my inbox with an invitation to a company party. The theme? Hollywood Stars. 🌟 It felt like the universe was nudging me to step into that energy I’d admired so much. This was my chance to channel Marilyn, to shine, and I wasn’t about to let it pass me by. I took it seriously—and I embraced the moment fully. 💃

As we step into the colder season, I find myself drifting back to my Summer memories. 🌞 I’m so grateful to have plenty of pictures from my travels! Here are a few snapshots from Croatia. This time, we opted for a countryside stay at an Airbnb, and these gorgeous views quickly became our daily treat. Oh, how I miss that vibe. 🌳🏡 

Originally, I took these photos as product shots for my brand, ViolkaBeads, but looking at them now, I can recall so much more—the heat of the day, exactly what I had for lunch, and the pure joy of being surrounded by cows, chickens, and lush, green scenery. 🐔 Taking photos of my jewelry brings me so much happiness. I love the chance to model and showcase pieces that I’ve designed and crafted myself; it’s incredibly rewarding to be the face of my own brand. There’s something so fulfilling about capturing the unique details of each piece and seeing my vision come to life in the photos. Changing up the scenery is also so important for creativity. Exploring new places and immersing myself in different settings always gives me fresh ideas and new perspectives. When I come back home, I feel recharged and inspired, ready to dive into new designs with a renewed sense of creativity. ✨

Un gelato, per favore. 🍦 I love Italy. I think I fell in love with Italy when I was around 9 and went to a Summer camp there. I remember visiting Rimini and Ravenna, enjoying the sea, beach, sunny days, worrying about nothing. But only when I grew up a little and went back there, I was able to appreciate the real genuine beauty of this country - including food, architecture, and passionate hearts of the Italians. Throughout the years, in my adulthood, I visited Rome, Macerata and surrounding areas, Lago Di Garda and Dolomites. My dream is to see Lago di Como soon!

I would so love to go back there this year, hopefully I can make it. ⛱️🌞 When you say Italy, it instantly gives me butterflies, I imagine a peaceful Summer by the water. Summer means Italy to me. And that is why I got Italy vibes when doing this photoshoot on the first hot day of the season. 

My whole outfit is thrifted (mostly on Vinted), except the green Reserved top. 

When I showed to one of my best friends (Sarah Willow Knitwear) a knitted buckle hat picture on Pinterest, I think that she has started making it right away in that moment, in her head at least. 🌈 I bought this pink colorful yarn a few years ago when I attempted to learn knitting, but I only tried once with my friend, and I was just not ready to enter this era yet. (Lacking patience!) It seemed so difficult to me, I decided to stick with just beading for now. Maybe in the future?

Anyways, I love that knitted fashion is becoming more and more popular again these days. I see more and more young girls wearing handmade pieces and it is making me so so happy. I feel that this boho / hippie style suits to almost everyone. To this look with a gorgeous knit buckle hat (thanks, Sarah!💖), I also added a knitted top from Vinted, pants I bought years ago on sale, thrifted shoes and my own ethno handmade beaded necklace (ViolkaBeads).

Hello! I would love to invite you to check out my Etsy shop. 📿 Not so long ago, I got back to my jewelry making passion (If you know me for a while, you know...) and I am currently creating new pieces, when I have free time. All of them are unique and one of a kind. You can find all my work at @violkabeads Instagram as well. Feel free to request a custom piece if you desire a unique handmade bracelet, pair of earrings or necklace made with love from me. 💗

This red pair of beaded earrings is one of my latest creation. I had a very creative mind that day, and wanted to make something really extra, that would make a statement at first sight. Let me know what you think. I was thinking of maybe doing these in many different colors if you guys were interested.

Everyting I am wearing in this post was thrifted.

This is the year that I've finally managed to pose with blooming magnolia trees, my life is complete now. 🌸 This was such a perfect day. My friend Vlasta picked me up at home and we headed to Pruhonice Park. The mission was clear - take as many pictures as we can while having a goo time, and I was planning on switching out my looks a few times, to create a lot of new content for my blog in just one day. ✨ So, stay tuned, there will be more outfits coming soon! By the way, we managed to get a delicious ice cream, watch koi fish in the pond and lizards, talk about pretty much anything and everything, grab a tasty lunch and tan in the Spring sun. What more to wish for? 

What was I wearing? Bershka sweater, thrifted vintage cowgirl shoes from Vinted, handmade knit buckle hat made by my friend Sarah and Versace Denim Couture jacket (also thrifted on Vinted).