Meet Pippi! I finally got a toy poodle. 🐶🐾

Honestly, this feels a little unreal to write because this has been one of those “one day” dreams for years. I’ve loved these tiny curly dogs forever. I remember seeing toy poodles all the time when I lived in the States almost 10 years ago and being completely obsessed with them already back then. Every single time I saw one, I was like: yep. That’s the dog.

But I kept telling myself the same thing over and over:
not yet.
timing isn’t perfect.
later.
one day it’ll happen naturally.

And somehow it actually did.

Spring this year has been very “almost.” Almost warm enough, almost sunny enough, almost time to put the big coat away. These photos are from that February (My Bday Month! 🎂) / March transition phase where you stop wearing gloves but still leave the house checking the weather app just in case. 🌤️

I wanted to post these sooner, but life lately has been busy. A lot of new things are happening, most of them internally, actually. The kind of changes you don’t really notice until one day your routines, mindset or even the way you spend your mornings feels different. Yeah, something like that.

Visually though, not much changed. Still brunette, still bob (kind of - it's growing...), still dressing in layers because spring weather has serious commitment issues. One thing is different though: I got a toy poodle puppy named Pippi. 🐻 But I’ll tell you more about her next time because she’s already become a full-time personality trait.

For now, just enjoy the photos. I think they explain this in-between-the-season transitioning better than a long caption ever could. This ALMOSTspring has looked like new nails & coffee runs, walking more,

 running errands, supporting local artists, theme scrapbooking with my bestie, filming a lot of new ASMR content for my YouTube channel, reorganizing life quietly in the background, and trying to find balance between being busy and actually enjoying things.

A few things I’ve been loving lately during this weird in-between season:
• long walks with no real plan
• gem stickers for a unique sparkly look
• weaing colorful bags that feel comfy
• buying flowers just because
• doing whatever the F I want
• spontaneous coffee dates
• gym first thing in the morning, then work!
• slowly getting back into routines that make life feel better

Anyway, soak up the pics. Consider this a little life update disguised as an outfit dump. 💖

I fell into the color palette rabbit hole.
And came out finally feeling aligned with myself.

I wasn’t trying to change my style. I wasn’t even trying to improve my looks. I was just doing what most of us do at the end of the day, scrolling on TikTok without much intention, half-present, half-curious. One video turned into another, and suddenly I wasn’t watching dance trends or outfit hauls anymore. I was watching people talk about color. About undertones. About why certain shades make someone look alive while others quietly drain them.

It felt oddly specific. And uncomfortably accurate.

Before I realized it, I had fallen straight into the color theory rabbit hole. Soft seasons, muted palettes, low contrast versus high contrast. At first it sounded complicated, even a little obsessive. But the more I watched, the more something clicked. These women weren’t transforming themselves. They were aligning. And that’s when I understood that what I had been feeling for years wasn’t a lack of style, taste, or effort. It was disharmony.

I had clothes. I had nice pieces. And yet, something always felt slightly off.

So I did this thing. I uploaded my photos to ChatGPT and asked these questions: 

• What is my overall coloring (hair, eyes, skin tone) described in detail? • How would you describe my body type? • What aesthetic aligns naturally with my features? • What textures suit my overall vibe? • What color palette would define my personal brand? • What era would I visually thrive in? • What archetype fits my appearance (fairy, muse, mermaid, scholar, etc.)? • What actresses have similar features to me? • What celebrities share my coloring? • What fictional characters look like me?

What came back surprised me. It wasn’t just a list of colors or a style label. It was a clear explanation of my natural coloring, my contrast level, the textures and tones that work with me instead of against me. For the first time, someone wasn’t telling me what was trendy or flattering in general, but what made sense for my face, my skin, my presence.

After removing my hair extensions and eyelash extensions, everything suddenly felt very… real. The first few days were a little strange. I would catch my reflection and pause for a moment, almost as if I needed time to recognize myself again. I felt lighter, more exposed, a bit out of my usual comfort zone. And yet,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ underneath that unfamiliar feeling,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ there was something surprisingly pleasant.

What I loved the most was the sense of relief. The feeling that I didn’t have to keep up with anything anymore. No maintenance schedules, no constant checking, no quiet pressure in the back of my mind. Just me, as I am, moving through my days. Washing my hair became quick and simple, almost meditative. Styling it took minutes, not effort. There was something very freeing in that simplicity.

The lashes were a slightly different story. Suddenly, mascara became part of my mornings again. At first, it felt like extra work, something I wasn’t used to anymore. For the first few days, I didn’t wear any mascara at all. I honestly felt a bit like a bird without feathers –⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ vulnerable, unfinished, unsure.

But then something shifted. 💫

I started using a lash growth serum, and little by little, I began to feel more comfortable with my natural face. And here’s something I didn’t expect: when you really get used to yourself without makeup, even something as simple as mascara becomes powerful. The contrast is beautiful. The effect is WOW. I genuinely recommend experiencing that –⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ allowing yourself to be bare, and then choosing enhancement instead of hiding.

At that point, I felt good. Calm. And most importantly, I felt pretty to myself. That quiet, private feeling of liking what you see –⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ even when no one else is watching. That matters more than anything.

Life otherwise went on in its usual rhythm. Errands. The gym. Coffee with friends. And also coffee just with myself, because we absolutely deserve our own company too. I had a photoshoot with my photographer friend (get excited, photos coming soon). I ate lots of good food –⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ I caught a cold, and pho has once again proven to be both comfort and medicine.

And to finish this whole French bob chapter properly, I painted my nails and toes red. A small detail, but it somehow tied everything together. A quiet nod to the whole French-girl moment I seem to be living right now.

Tell me –⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ what have you been up to lately?
I really mean it. I’d love to know.

XO, Zuzi ✨

Last time I wrote about scrapbooking, it was from that familiar place of excitement mixed with good intentions. You know the kind – new notebook, a clear vision, a spark… and then life happens and the notebook stays half-empty.

This time felt different. 👯‍♀️✨

I spent an afternoon scrapbooking with my best friend. We’ve been friends for over 15 years now – two adult women, no kids, just a shared love for creating things, talking (or not talking), and being fully ourselves together. There’s something deeply comforting about that kind of friendship. No performing. No explaining. Just womanhood, sisterhood, and a quiet “I’ve got you.”

This meetup was a freestyle scrapbooking session. No rules, no pressure, no outcome in mind. Just paper, glue, scissors, stickers, old magazines, washi tapes, memories, and whatever wanted to emerge. And it was so good that we decided to give this ritual a bit of structure going forward: every next session will have a theme. I’ll come up with one and my friend Veronika will bring her own topic as well. I can already feel how special this is going to become. A tradition.

We’re also… very much obsessed with stationery. Stickers, papers, notebooks, washi tapes – you name it. Buying these things is almost a hobby on its own. And usually, I start a new notebook with big dreams and never quite finish it. But something clicked this time. Knowing we’ll meet every month, that there’s time dedicated just for this, just for us, makes it feel doable. Lighter. Real.

Some things are surprisingly hard to do alone. Even the things you love. Having a friend – a true partner in crime – changes everything.

I baked a pie. We had coffee. Her cute little pooch “helped” us by sitting directly on my notebook and insisting on being part of the process (obviously). We scrapbooked for hours. Sometimes chatting, sometimes completely silent. Time flew by in that gentle, almost sacred way it does when you’re fully present and safe in someone’s company.

When we finally stopped, we both felt good. Calm. Filled up.

So this is me saying it out loud, for myself and for you:
Do this more often. Create with your friends. Make time for hobbies that don’t need to make money or sense. Sit together in silence. Let dogs sit on your notebooks. Romanticize these moments.

I highly recommend it. 💛

XO, Zuzi

Christmas has a way of slowing time down. 🎄 The lights are softer. The air feels heavier with memories. Home smells like something familiar you didn’t know you missed. This year, I’m really allowing myself to be here. Not rushing through the holidays, not performing joy, not escaping into distractions – just being present with the atmosphere, the quiet moments, the laughter, the pauses in between. Sitting with a cup of something warm. Listening. Breathing. Letting the moment land.

I know that for many of us, Christmas isn’t only cozy and magical. It can be heavy. Emotional. Triggering. Especially when family time becomes overwhelming and old patterns suddenly resurface – roles you thought you outgrew, expectations you never agreed to, emotions that don’t make sense but still hurt. If Christmas feels hard for you, I want you to know this: nothing is wrong with you.

Okay, confession time: every year I tell myself “this Christmas will be simple!”

And then… I end up deep-diving Pinterest like a woman on a mission, saving photos that make my heart physically expand –⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ fireplaces, snowy cabins, old-money Christmas parties, puppies in cable-knit sweaters (don’t judge), vintage movie scenes, and those ridiculously perfect spa-getaway views.

So today’s post is basically my Christmas brain on display.
A few mood-board photos that just do something to me –⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ a bit romantic, a bit nostalgic, a sprinkle of luxury, a lot of coziness. My personal recipe for the perfect holiday vibe. ❄️

I promised myself I wouldn’t go full Christmas mode too early…
…but honestly? I’m already halfway there. And after this photoshoot? I’m gone.
So consider this your first tiny dose of Christmas vibes from me –⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ because trust me, there’s so much more coming. I’m taking it slow, giving it to you piece by piece, so we can all enjoy this magical build-up together.

Ever since I was little, I dreamed of a proper Christmas photoshoot –⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ the kind you see in movies.
A decorated tree glowing with warm lights, a fireplace crackling in the background, soft blankets, golden ornaments, the whole hygge fantasy… and someone kind, gentle, patient behind the camera. Someone who makes you feel safe and beautiful.
This year, I finally got it.

Thanks to my lovely friend Aneta, one of the sweetest souls and, honestly, one of the most talented photographers in Prague. I still can’t believe how perfectly she captured the energy I wanted –⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ soft, warm, a little dreamy… and a little “Zuzi”.
If you want to get into the Christmas spirit, scroll down.
I’m warning you… it’s starting. And I’m starting to feel Christmas. 🎁✨

I say it every year, but I’ll say it again – Christmas hits differently when you actually choose things that bring you joy, peace, beauty, or comfort. This season isn’t about excess or pressure. And it’s definitely not about buying things just for the sake of it. It’s about choosing with care. Slowing down enough to notice what makes you feel good – what supports you, inspires you, and fills your space with a little more light. ✨ This isn’t about being materialistic – it’s about being intentional.

So here it is: my personal little treasure map of things I want, love, or really need this season.
Some practical, some dreamy, some purely because they make me smile. Sooo... If you’re looking for gift ideas, something to lift your own spirits, or just a reason to treat yourself (which I highly recommend), feel free to borrow anything from this list. 🎁

Because you deserve to feel held, happy, and fully you – this season and beyond. 🎄

🍂 Don’t we all love fall?

The cozy layers, the rush of fresh inspiration, that little “second wind” after a slow summer. Suddenly it’s time to pull on soft sweaters, wrap up in scarves, and breathe in crisp air filled with the scent of apples and cinnamon. It’s the season of pumpkin patches and weekend farmers’ markets. Of baking pies and sipping spiced tea while the oven warms the kitchen. Of long candlelit evenings, hand-crafted wreaths, dried flowers, and little DIY projects made from nature’s gifts – pinecones, chestnuts, branches and colorful leaves.

Right now, my Pinterest wall is overflowing with mood boards full of caramel-colored knits, rustic tablescapes, velvet pumpkins, cozy corners and forest walks. And honestly? This time of year I love it most. Let’s explore this year’s fall inspiration together – in mood boards that celebrate everything we adore about the season.

Source of inspiration: Pinterest

🍂 Fall Is Knocking – and I’m Actually Happy About It

There’s that crisp, golden whisper in the air again. Even though summer felt like it sprinted past me – wasn’t it just June yesterday? – I’m surprisingly at peace with the change. I’m not built for sauna vibes anyway; give me twenty degrees Celsius and a light breeze and I thrive like a well-watered houseplant. And oh, the wardrobe change! Layers, boots, tights, chunky knits, candles, fallen leaves, moody fall foliage, and long evenings with that hint of nostalgia. If the end-of-summer blues hit you too, lean into the rituals: swap iced coffee for warm matcha, pull out your favourite coat early, rearrange your room for that cozy vibe. It works wonders.

🍂 Hey loves,

Do you feel it too? That little crispness in the air that makes you want to pull your sweater a bit closer and sip something cinnamon-y? Fall has officially tiptoed in, and I swear it’s bringing a wave of the coziest nostalgia. I don’t even know why – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠but every falling leaf feels like a little memory (?).

Right now, I’m totally living in my autumn daydreams. Picture this with me: a chunky burgundy knit sweater (the kind you could nap in), a soft suede bag swinging at my side, and sunnies that give “main character strolling through fallen leaves” vibes. It’s all on my wishlist, and I’m manifesting every single piece into my reality –⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ because why not?

Want to see my Spring to Summer Wishlist (aka My Dreamy Little World in a Flatlay)? Grab a popcorn. 🍿🌸☀️🌿

You know when you look at a photo and it just feels like your happy place? That’s exactly what this little layout is for me — a collection of my current faves, dream finds, and wishful “add to cart” moments that totally capture the transition from spring to summer. I swear, if I could crawl inside this aesthetic and live in it, I would. Pinky promise.

So here’s what I’m loving right now, what’s in my cart (or already in my life), and a few tips if you, like me, are trying to romanticize your everyday — even if it's just sipping juice from a fancy glass while you water your plants in cute boots.

As Winter melts into Spring slowly but surely, the world around us transforms in the most beautiful ways. The crisp, icy days give way to soft blossoms, longer sunsets, and that unmistakable feeling of renewal. These past few months, I’ve been capturing little moments—some cozy, some vibrant, all special. And today, I’m sharing them with you. These are snapshots I haven’t posted before (well, unless you’re following me on Instagram—then you might’ve caught a sneak peek). So, grab a cup of tea, scroll through, and join me in this quiet transition from cold to warmth, from winter’s stillness to spring’s soft awakening. 🌸

P.S. Looking at these 30+ photos from my phone now, I’m realizing it’s basically all about food, fashion, and cosmetics. Works for me! 🙈

At the start of 2024, I remember attempting to create a mood board. I even went old-school, cutting images out of actual magazines with scissors. But, as it often happens, I tucked it away in a drawer—and you know what they say: "What goes in the drawer, stays in the drawer." Life got busy, and other distractions took over. For 2025, though, I’m determined to take a different approach. I want to truly create and visualize the year I’m manifesting. And let me tell you—I’m manifesting the best year ever! They say if you can dream it and visualize it, you can make it happen. There’s no reason why the things we desire can’t come to us in this lifetime. Right? As for my mood board, it doesn’t need much explanation. Honestly, I’d like to keep most of the details to myself. But I’ll share this: the vibe for 2025 is all about abundance, independence, growth, and true personal fulfillment, and I can already feel it starting to unfold for me. ⭐

Christmas Party Coming Up? Here Are 3 Holiday Outfit Ideas for Any Office Christmas Gathering: From Casual to Extra Festive! ✨ 

The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes a flurry of office holiday parties, post-work get-togethers, and family gatherings. Whether you’re heading straight from the office or transitioning to a festive evening event, finding the right outfit that feels both professional and celebratory can be a challenge. Luckily, with the right touches, you can easily turn your workwear into a chic, holiday-ready ensemble. And don’t forget to express your true self, too!

In this post, I’ve put together three stylish looks that’ll take you from desk to dancefloor, no matter your style or the vibe of your gathering. These looks are all about balancing elegance with a touch of holiday cheer. And don’t worry, I haven’t forgotten about your shoes—your office heels can easily transform into something festive with just a few tweaks. So, let’s dive into these holiday outfit ideas that will ensure you shine this Christmas season. ⭐🎅

1) That’s a Wrap! 🎁 

Got a unique style and want to stay warm? Nobody’s going to be mad at you if you show up in a cute knit outerwear! Just add a little festive bow to your jeans, throw on some star-shaped earrings, and you’re all set! This casual look is definitely one of my favorites—it's something I’d wear any (holi)day. 

The holiday season is here (can you believe Christmas is just one month away?!), and it’s the perfect excuse to refresh my phone accessories! 😁 I recently treated myself to two fabulous phone cases from Whimvoy, and let me tell you—they’re total game-changers. Imagine festive Christmas vibes combined with chic wristlets that turn your phone into a statement piece as stylish as your outfit. I couldn’t wait to start using them, so I snapped a few lifestyle shots to show them off. Let’s dive into the details and see how these cases add a little extra sparkle to everyday life! 

Hey friends! 🎄 

Christmas is almost here, and I’m feeling that festive excitement! ✨ Every year, I like to put together a little wishlist—not just for gifts, but for all the things that make the holiday feel like Christmas. These aren’t just “wants” but essentials that keep the magic alive for me. So, here’s my Christmas list of must-haves, from cozy comforts to sparkly decor and accessories, and a few thoughts on making the season feel extra special. Let me know what’s your favorite item on this list, I’m genuinely curious! And yes, this year, I’m adding a toy poodle puppy to the wishlist! 😁 It’s been on my mind for a long time, but the timing just hasn’t lined up yet. Fingers crossed, maybe next year will be the one where this dream finally comes true! 🐕

As a true Christmas enthusiast, I've always loved the magic of holiday decorations, and there were years when I couldn’t resist going all out. But recently, I've discovered the charm of a minimalistic approach to Christmas decorating—keeping it cozy, simple, and just traditional enough. 🎄 For me, it’s about creating a warm atmosphere that complements my home without overwhelming it. It’s amazing how a few well-chosen decorations can transform a space and capture the spirit of the season without the need for excess. The beauty of minimalistic Christmas decor lies in its simplicity. Think understated wreaths, natural greenery, soft twinkling lights, and a few classic ornaments that don’t demand attention but create a cozy ambiance. I love that these choices are effortlessly compatible with my everyday decor, adding a subtle holiday touch without the need for a complete style overhaul. This approach allows each piece to shine, from a vintage ornament passed down through the family to a simple garland that brings nature indoors. 💫

What I've come to realize is that we are the ones who set the tone for our homes. With so many trends and colors, it’s easy to get swept up in what’s "in." But really, Christmas decorating should be about what makes us feel the joy of the season. Whether that’s a traditional red and green palette, minimalist whites and silvers, or natural wood accents, it’s our personal touch that brings out the holiday magic. Creating a space where we feel happiest is what makes the season feel authentic. Ultimately, embracing minimalistic Christmas decor doesn’t mean sacrificing the festive spirit. For me, it’s about creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere with simple touches that remind us of what we love most about this season. After all, it’s not the number of decorations that counts, but the warmth and joy they bring into our homes. 🎅

I still remember the early days of my friend's handmade soap company. 🧼 I’ve known Veronika, the creative force behind this project, for about 15 years, and she’s one of my closest friends. Throughout the years, she’s been incredibly supportive of my own craft—jewelry making—and has always encouraged me to take it further.

Today, I want to give her some space on my blog to showcase what she’s accomplished over the past decade with her business. She started out making soaps by hand, literally on her knees, and today she offers a wide range of cosmetic products on www.almarasoap.cz. I am so proud of her! She had a vision, and she’s taken it this far. Of course, it’s no longer a one-woman operation. Many people are now working behind the scenes, especially during busy seasons, to bring her creations to life. I invite you to explore her unique collection of artisan soaps, body scrubs, hair care products, candles, bath salts, and so much more. ✨

I’ve had the chance to try most of Almara’s products, from soaps to body scrubs, and it’s always been an amazing experience—so pleasant on the skin and a delight for the senses. I can personally recommend them because I know these products are made with genuine love and care.