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artspace11275201418 · 1 year ago

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"How home decor Design Change Impact on Society and Economy", Let us discover this occurrence.

Of course! Changes in the style of home décor can have a big impact on the economy and society. Interior design trends are subject to industry innovation, economic factors, and consumer behavior.

They frequently reflect broader cultural movements. I'll go into great detail here, examining the fascinating interactions among society, economics, and home decor design.

Evolution of Home décor Design:

Advances in technology, cultural shifts, and societal ideals are all visually reflected in home décor design.

It has passed through several historical periods over time, each with its own unique aesthetics, materials, and styles.

These changes reflect cultural influences and preferences, from the slick minimalism of current design to the lavish adornment of Victorian eras.

1. Impact on Society:

Identity Expression:

People can express their personalities, ideologies, and preferences through home décor design.

It is a vehicle for self-expression and reflects individual stories.

For example, varied styles highlight originality and inventiveness, while minimalist designs may reflect a desire for simplicity and functionality.

Comfort and Well-Being:

As design principles change, comfort, wellness, and functionality become more important.

The increased emphasis on environmental consciousness and well-being in society is reflected in the preference for natural lighting, ergonomic furniture, and sustainable materials.

3. Social contact:

By creating areas for social contact, home designs affect how people behave in public.

Open-plan designs encourage unity and inclusivity, while private areas permit reflection and seclusion.

These patterns may strengthen or weaken family ties by encouraging or obstructing communication.

Economic Influence:

1. Market Demand and Consumption:

Consumer behavior and market demand are greatly influenced by home décor trends.

Trends towards eco-friendly materials, smart home technologies, or retro styling influence many industries by driving demand for particular goods and services.

2. Industry Growth and Innovation:

As home décor evolves, industries continue to innovate.

It encourages innovation among manufacturers, designers, and architects, which results in the creation of novel materials, methods, and goods.

Growth in the economy is stimulated by this innovation cycle.

3. Employment Opportunities:

Due to the dynamic nature of home décor design, there are jobs available in a variety of industries.

A wide range of skill sets are in demand, from architects and interior designers to craftsmen and craftspeople, which promotes economic stability and employment generation.

The Changing Landscape:

1. Technology Integration:

Experiences with home decor are altered by the integration of technology, such as augmented reality and smart home appliances.

Customers can now imagine and customize locations with the use of virtual design tools, completely changing the way the industry approaches client engagement.

2. Sustainable Practices:

A rise in environmentally conscious home décor has been attributed to growing environmental awareness.

Customers are looking for eco-friendly designs and materials, which is pushing enterprises to use sustainable production techniques and lessen their influence on the environment.

3. Global Influences:

As a result of increased access to a variety of design ideas, globalization has influenced trends all around the world.

Globalized design is shaped by fusion styles, which combine traditional components with modern aesthetics as a result of cultural contacts.

In conclusion:

home décor design is a dynamic field that goes beyond simple aesthetics to become a powerful force behind both economic progress and societal transformation.

It is positioned as a dynamic catalyst for both individual expression and more significant cultural shifts due to its ability to reflect, influence, and adapt to societal norms.

Design, society, and the economy are interdependent, and their continued evolution will surely affect our living environments, way of life, and the entire planet.

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#Home décor Design #Cultural Movements #Technology #Historical Periods #Victorian eras #Ideologies #Archive of Dreams #Environment-friendly #Ergonomic Furniture #relationships #festivals #mindfulness #stress #emotionally resilient #healing magic #personal development #social connectivity #reflection and renewal

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indgem · 1 year ago

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Excited to share the latest addition to my #etsy shop: Handcrafted resin statue of liberty Miniature Resin Figurine showpiece for home décor

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craftsbazaar · 1 year ago

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#string art #craftsbazaar #home decor #christmas gift #christmas #festive décor #santa claus #diy craft #wall decor #string art gift

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asidian · 4 months ago

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Set breakdown time! Next up: Niko's room.

As before, I've circled the points of interest and numbered them to make them easier to talk about. Cool? Cool. Let's do this!

1: Niko's mom's name! This part is her and Niko's surname. The kanji are 佐々木.

佐 – sa, meaning help or aid

々 – an iteration mark. When you see this, basically it means "exactly what the last one said, one more time." So another sa meaning help or aid

木 – ki, meaning tree

It's really neat that they picked a last name for her that doubles down on her role in the narrative. Just like Niko is there to support and help other characters in whatever way they seem to need, her surname hammers it home by including 佐 not once but twice.

2: Riza (リザ) Niko's mother's given name. Somewhat odd here is that it's written in katakana and not kanji. Without getting sidetracked too much (you can pop over here to read more if you're interested) most Japanese people write their names in kanji.

Katakana seems like a bit of a strange choice here, unless a) Niko for some reason doesn't know the kanji for her own mother's name (weird, given that she's in high school) b) her mother is a foreigner (a possibility; foreigners usually write their names in katakana) c) the set designer/whoever prepped the letters didn't know the appropriate kanji for "Riza" (seems unlikely, given how accurate all the rest of this is) or d) some sort of personal habit. An interesting side note is that her letter to Niko also puts Niko's name in katakana.

3: Cutesy stationery, used for marking your place in a document or book

4: A cute blue purse!

5: Watermelon! Judging by the shiny material and placement near the other bag, I'm going to guess this is another purse

6: Niko's clothes :>

7: Pink luggage

8: Lots of instant noodles

9: A rice cooker

10: Rice vinegar

11: This girl LOVES her some plants

12: Probably food items…? The one on the right looks like it might be a five-pound bag of rice, but I don't recognize the brand

13: Lots of unwashed dishes

14: A toaster oven

15: Chopsticks

16: A cute octopus pillow. I think I saw someone mention that it's from Ikea :>

17: She often leaves dirty dishes sitting on the bedside table

18: A painting of what seems to be a skyscape

19: Brightly colored pillows

20: Metal art in the shape of a moon

21: A decorative window hanging

22: More plants :)

23: Candles

24: Her tv

25: Cute pens with pompoms on the end

26: Regular tape

27: A cute cat statue

28: Marble Pop Ramune, strawberry flavor. Ramune is a type of soda that's a popular festival drink in Japan. It's sealed with a glass marble and you have to pop the marble down into the little catch basin before you can drink it.

29: Anime wall décor

30: Fruit jelly cups. In Japan, small gelatin based snacks like this are popular. They're tiny, about an inch tall, and you eat them in just one or two bites.

31: Niko's laptop. She has stickers on it

32: Washi tape! It's decorative Japanese tape, often with bright colors and patterns, used for crafting.

33: A lot of cute magnets, including the bunny one, which serves double-duty as a kitchen timer

34: Niko's grocery list. The only thing on here that's here because she wants it is strawberry ice cream. The rest of the items, licorice tea, manuka honey, and Epsom salts, are all natural remedies. She's been trouble-shooting how to get rid of the effects of the sprites. She knows she's sick, but not why

35: Cutesy craft supplies! Sequins, glitter, and pompoms

36: More washi tape!

37: Niko's manga collection. She is that particular brand of organizational mess that does not put her numbered volumes in order. She has made an exception for the series that makes a complete picture when you line them up, though

38: More plants :)

39: Manga posters! Issho is one of the series that she has on her shelf

40: A decorative jar

41: Little metal bird sculptures

42: What seems to be the only framed picture in her room. The angle is wrong to see what the photo is, but it's interesting that they added just one in here. Maybe it's her family…?

#dead boy detectives #dbda #niko sasaki #edwin payne #jenny green #meta commentary #set design #netflix

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etheries1015 · 11 months ago

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Wishing you a happy birthday!

Featuring: Diasomnia!

General warnings: Gender neutral reader

TW: None!

Your birthday has arrived, and all of Diasomnia brought it upon themselves to organize a party for you to celebrate their beloved prefect! what role did they play? <3

Malleus

Prepared the date, time and organized the event. Not without leaving an impression before hand, of course.

Malleus was not unaccustomed to birthdays, for he had three humans in his life that he found to be incredibly important to celebrate the day of their birth. Silver, Sebek (although half), and now, you. You had become an essential part of his life, a staple of companionship, and the thought of a short human lifespan had caused him to treat birthdays almost as lavishly as his own would be back home. When you stepped up onto ramshackle, you first noticed the...increasingly large amount of gargoyles and rocks. These rocks were not any rocks- they were sparkling jewels. You hadn't even known the name of most of these, but they sparkled like no other and you were ecstatic. The next thing you noticed was the colorful decorations. The entire building was covered head to toe in streamers, balloons, and décor of all sorts. Even the gargoyles were wearing party hats. Upon entering your dorm, you heard a loud cheer of "happy birthdays!" Around you.

Malleus was the first to approach you! The tall fae had a smile that lit up brighter than the stones that were placed outside, gently grabbing both of your hands into his own.

"welcome to the celebration, Child of man. I have prepared a party for you, I hope you do not mind I invited myself into your dorm without permission, however you I had taken in account you had stated I am allowed over whenever I please. I hope you do not mind this intrusion." Ah...his heart melted at your smile, he was certain it was the most beautiful thing he had ever seen in his entire life. You reached up to give the prince a kiss upon his cheek, much to his surprise. His cheeks took on a rosy hue, and a chuckle of satisfaction left his lips.

"I thought this was your birthday, yet you bestow a gift to me instead? How interesting. I shall return this gift to you," He bent over to plant a kiss on your cheek as well, you couldn't help but feel an overwhelming sense of affection as you engulfed him in a hug.

"I hate to interrupt you two," Lilia chuckled amusingly, "but I do believe we have presents our prefect need to open!" You looked over to the pile of presents that seemed to reach the top of the ceiling...glancing over at Malleus with your jaw slacked open, he simply took your hand to lead you to the presents he had collected.

"You have a very limited amount of birthdays to celebrate the short life you live, thus you deserve only the best of gifts. I also wish to speak to you alone after the festivities...if you will have me. But for now enjoy the company of those around you and be cheerful as we rejoice another successful year you have made it to be. Happy birthday, my beloved (y/n)."

Lilia

The decorator and game organizer!

It was obvious to you that the bright and playful decorations were none other than Lilias doing. The streamers, the hats, the balloons with silly sayings was just the thing he would do. When you stepped into Ramshackle, the first thing you got was a burst of confetti. EVERYWHERE. Loud cheers of 'happy birthday!' surrounded you, along with sparkles, confetti, and all sorts of fun little things to boot. Lilia was the first to approach you, excitedly telling you all of the little things he did to decorate.

"The décor should represent how we feel about you! You're bright my little bat, always lighting up the room and making a statement among the students." You hugged Lilia tightly and gave an earnest thanks, Lilia responding with a light chuckle and petting your head.

"Although, I insisted on making a cake for you. It's a shame Silver had the grand Idea of having me plan out the decorations for this celebration! Although, I did do a fantastic job, wouldn't you say?"

"You did, Lilia. Thank you." He flashed you a toothy grin and continued to sing your praises, expressing his fondness for the outfit you had chosen, and how you presented yourself. Lilia had been sure Malleus knew to invite all of your close friends in the school, making it a point that everyone you were close with was there to celebrate your special day. You were handed one present after another, and the red eyed fae refused to leave your side. He insisted that he wanted to spend every second with you, for he was being thorough in making sure you had a smile on your face and never bored.

The fae gasped and grabbed your hand, twirling you around and insisting you join in on the dance floor. You had tried to reject him, but Lilia would not take no for an answer.

"The night is young! Let us dance to our hearts content and enjoy good food with this great company! It's not every day you turn (age.) Human life is short, and you should enjoy it as much as possible. Do not fret over looking silly, just be yourself! Do that, and your life will surely prosper. Happy birthday, little bat."

Silver

Responsible for creating a cake that was certain to be the star of the show!

When his father insisted on making a birthday cake for you, Silver was quick to interject and insist he decide on the decorations while he makes the cake for you. Silver knows your tastes inside and out, and he was determined to make a cake worthy of your birthday!

But unfortunately, he did get his fathers sense of cooking. Albeit his food always turned out significantly better, there were...quite a few bumps in the road. Following the recipe to a T, he did lack some form of common sense. Forgetting to crack open the eggs...trying to get the flour out of the bag only to accidentally cover himself head to toe in it...falling asleep while it was in the mixing bowl...let's just say by the end of it, although the cake decorated beautifully and taste heavenly, the kitchen was a disaster and his person a matching set.

He actually didn't get the cake to you until after the party started. He ran into Ramshackle with the cake in hand, panting slightly as he made his way to the table of food. Lilia greeted his son and complimented his handiwork, stating he had made it just in time for the cake to be handed out.

"I'm sorry I'm so late (y/n)," Silver said, "The cake took a little longer than I thought. My apologies." You gave him a genuine smile and told the silver haired boy it was alright, to which he returned the smile in full and gave you his birthday wishes. Upon cutting the cake, Silver insisted you were the one who must try it first! Cutting a generous piece, he lifted the fork to your lips.

"Here, tell me what you think," Your lips covered the fork and you swear you saw stars. He knew exactly what you liked and baked it practically to perfection, to which he replied by holding the fork to your mouth with another bite waiting for you.

"I know you can feed yourself, but you don't have to. It's your birthday, let me spoil you a bit. Oh, and I have a present for you, too. Today is celebrating you, and father says birthdays are a time to make sure someone feels completely spoiled and special, so it's okay to indulge in presents and be selfish a bit, so make the most out of it. Happy birthday, (y/n)"

Sebek

Finding the right present!

He didn't have much to do with the planning and decorating of the party, but instead he made it his mission to find the perfect present for you. Something that you would surely remember and keep for the rest of your short life! Something you look at and is reminded of him, something that will always make you smile.

He would rather die than admit any of that out loud, though.

Sebek was notorious for hiding any mushy emotions, masking it with loud declarations of knightly duties, determining that mingling with someone in any capacity, much less a human, would hinder his duty to protect his king. Anybody could see a mile away that he was going to extreme lengths simply to see to it you would be satisfied with a gift he could come up with for you. Even a week prior they could see his poor skills of hiding as he watched you from the "shadows," Taking note of what you ate, the things you did in your free time, and the jewels or clothing you wore.

Being questioned why he was up at 3 in the morning sitting in front of Sams shop, he would simply deflect his intentions under a rouse of collecting something his king needed that was upmost importance, and was going to be 100% certain that he would be the first to collect the stock they had before anyone else could take it.

Did Malleus really have the need for such items...?

When the party had commenced, Sebek loudly insisted that you open his present first, standing tall and proud with a blush upon his cheeks he handed you a... rather large box.

"I have gathered all the necessary herbs for your survival! I noticed your favorite tea/drink and made sure you had ample supply in stock ready to go, too! This weapon? It's important that you can protect yourself when I- u-uh anyways! Look, there are plenty of other great remedies in there taught to us by master Lilia! You must take proper care of your body and mind for your fragile human body, If you have questions on how they are to be used, I'll help you. Happy birthday, human!"

~~~

Happy birthday @hanafubukki !!! <3 From Etheries and the Diafam!

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simspirationbuilds · 27 days ago

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This month, my amazing friend Bambi and I teamed up to deliver this charming Christmas-themed set so you can bring the magic of the season to your Sims' homes! My part of the collaboration includes beautifully crafted furniture (good for any season), a cute Christmas tree adorned with shiny ornaments, and a frosted classic fireplace, while Bambi focused on creating some stunning décor pieces to create a festive wonderland! Make sure to check her work our and please consider supporting xx

Patreon Early Access

#sims 4 cc #sims 4 #sims 4 custom content #simspirationbuilds #sims #simblr

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usagii-bun · 3 months ago

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sunset berry tea. zhongli x reader

✦....summary: in which zhongli tries out a new tea shop in liyue.

✦.....warnings: none!

✦.....word count: 1.1k

The small tea shop nestled along the busy streets of Liyue had quickly become a haven for its patrons. To Zhongli, however, it had become something more—a quiet retreat from the responsibilities and the endless history of the city he once governed. He had first noticed the shop a few weeks ago, its subtle charm standing out among the bustling market stalls. Today, curiosity led him inside.

The chime above the door tinkled softly, and you glanced up from the counter where you were brewing tea, your hands steady and practiced. Your eyes caught sight of a tall man with sharp amber eyes and an air of calm about him, his expression serene as he scanned the room.

"Welcome," you greeted with a warm smile. "What can I get for you today?"

Zhongli approached the counter, his gaze briefly flicking to the menu before resting on you. "It is a warm day today. Perhaps you could recommend something refreshing?"

You chuckled softly, the sound light and pleasant. "I’ve got just the thing. I’d recommend our Sunset Berry Tea. It’s fruity and pleasantly sour, and the cold brew is perfect for this weather."

"That sounds perfect," Zhongli replied, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips.

You turned to prepare the drink, pouring the mixture of berries and herbs with careful precision. As you worked, Zhongli’s gaze wandered over the tea shop’s décor—soft Sumeru influences interwoven with Liyue’s aesthetic. It was clear this was more than just a shop to you; it was a piece of your home, brought to the bustling streets of Liyue Harbor.

When you returned with the tea, Zhongli accepted it graciously. He took a sip, his eyes closing briefly as the cool, refreshing flavor washed over him.

“This is exceptional,” he praised, setting the cup down gently. “A drink perfectly suited for dispelling the heat.”

You grinned, a sense of pride blooming in your chest. "Thank you. I learned everything from my father. He ran a tea business in Sumeru, but I decided to bring a piece of that here to Liyue. I’ve always admired the culture and wanted to start fresh."

Zhongli listened attentively as you spoke, your passion evident in the way your eyes lit up with each word. You rambled on about the tea, your father’s craft, and how you had come to love the traditions of Liyue. What began as a simple conversation became a habit—a ritual of sorts. Zhongli would come by the tea shop regularly, each time eager to try a new brew and to hear you speak about your life and the things that fascinated you.

In turn, he shared his own stories—little pieces of Liyue’s vast history and its rich culture. The more time he spent with you, the more he realized how much he enjoyed your company. There was a warmth in the way you spoke, a sincerity that made him feel more human—less like the ex-Archon burdened by millennia of memories.

Over time, he couldn’t help but notice how your hair sometimes fell in different styles, how you tried new shades of lipstick that complemented your features. He would feel a faint flutter in his chest whenever your eyes met his or when you smiled at him in that gentle, unassuming way.

As the Lantern Rite approached, the city buzzed with excitement, the streets filling with vibrant colors, lanterns hanging from every corner. One afternoon, as Zhongli was finishing his tea, he hesitated, the words lingering on his lips before he spoke.

“The Lantern Rite is always a magnificent occasion,” he said, his voice calm as always. “I was wondering if you would care to accompany me to the festival? It would be an honor to share the evening with you.”

Your heart skipped a beat, warmth flooding your cheeks. You hadn’t expected him to ask, but the thought of spending the festival with Zhongli made your chest tighten with excitement. “I’d love to,” you replied softly, your smile bright.

---

That evening, the streets of Liyue were filled with the soft glow of lanterns. The sky was painted with hues of gold and crimson as the sun began to set, casting a magical light over the harbor. You and Zhongli strolled through the festival together, the air buzzing with the sounds of music and laughter. Street vendors lined the roads, offering a myriad of treats and delicacies.

“Have you ever tried these?” Zhongli asked, gesturing toward a stall selling golden shrimp balls. You shook your head, and he bought a pair, handing one to you. The crisp exterior gave way to a warm, savory filling, and you smiled as you tasted the delightful combination of flavors.

As you walked, you talked about everything and nothing at all—the culture of Liyue, the beauty of the lanterns, and the stories that had been passed down for generations. Zhongli’s deep, soothing voice mixed with the sounds of the festival, creating a comforting backdrop to your evening.

There was an ease between the two of you, a natural connection that neither of you could deny. And as the sky darkened, the first fireworks began to burst above, painting the night with brilliant colors. You both paused to watch, the lanterns floating up into the sky like stars.

Zhongli turned to you then, his gaze soft and warm. “May I ask you something?” he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

You looked up at him, your heart fluttering in anticipation. “Of course.”

“There’s something I’ve been feeling… recently,” he began, his amber eyes holding yours. “Whenever I’m with you, I feel at ease. I find myself wanting to be around you more often, and I believe…” He paused, his expression growing tender. “I believe I’ve grown quite fond of you.”

Your breath caught, and you felt a flush rise to your cheeks. “I… I feel the same way,” you admitted, your voice quiet.

Zhongli took a step closer, the space between you shrinking. “Would it be all right if I kissed you?”

His question hung in the air, the gentle hum of the festival fading as your heart raced in your chest. You gave a small nod, your voice failing you.

With a soft smile, Zhongli leaned in, his lips brushing against yours in the softest, most tender kiss. The fireworks above crackled and burst into brilliant colors, but all you could focus on was the warmth of his lips against yours, the way your heart seemed to soar with every second.

When he pulled away, his thumb brushed your cheek, his expression soft and affectionate. “You have brought a light into my life,” he murmured, his voice like velvet. “One I did not expect to find.”

Your heart swelled, a smile tugging at your lips. “I could say the same about you.”

Hand in hand, you continued to watch the fireworks, your hearts intertwined beneath the glowing lanterns of Liyue.

author's note: this is just a little warm up writing for me as i have not written in a while, next work is al haitham x fem reader (professor x student) but reader is also a cam girl, so if anyone is interesting for that fanfic do let me know and I'll add ya to the tag list <3

#zhongli #zhongli x reader #genshin impact #genshin x reader #genshin fanfic #genshin impact zhongli #genshin zhongli x reader #fluff

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yan-lorkai · 2 months ago

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.⁠｡⁠*⁠♡ Day sixteen: Helping Riddle, Cater and Trey decorate

.⁠｡⁠*⁠♡ A/n: Do I like how this turned out to be? No. Am I going to post either way? Oh, absolutely, sometimes I write random things, and y'all love it for some reason???

The garden of Heartslabyul was alive with the colors of autumn. Pumpkins of all sizes, painted in rich oranges and deep blacks, lined the stone pathways, casting long shadows as the sun began to dip below the horizon. Lanterns hung from the hedges, their flickering lights gently illuminating the crimson roses and casting a warm glow over the space. The air was crisp, carrying the faint scent of freshly fallen leaves and the promise of a cool evening.

You stood in the center of it all, a spool of ribbon in hand, taking a moment to admire how everything was coming together. It had taken hours of work and you teasing Riddle just for a little fun, watching his cheeks being painted red as he fumbled and stuttered, but the transformation of the garden was nothing short of magical.

You felt a sense of pride as you looked around, catching sight of him near the garden arch, carefully arranging a display of jack-o'-lanterns.

His movements were precise, his focus unwavering as he adjusted each one until they were perfectly aligned. He had told you thousands of times about how the jack-o'-lanterns couldn't be wrinkled or hung at the wrong angle, according to the queen's rules.

Riddle glanced up, noticing your gaze lingenring over him. His lips curled into a small, almost shy smile as he met your eyes. “You’ve done a wonderful job, Prefect,” he said, his voice carrying across the quiet garden. “I expected nothing less from you, even if you're quite troublesome sometimes.”

You felt a warmth spread across your cheeks at his word, giggling at his praise mixed with his disapproval. “Thanks, Riddle. I’m glad you think so. And that you let me help."

That you let me join the festivities, that I could give suggestions, that I could help, you concluded mentally. You felt almost at home, where you used to help decorating for Halloween, where you used to go out for trick or treating.

"Sit down for a moment, you seem tired," Riddle patted your shoulder almost affectionately. The sun would set in a few hours and you were all tired after exhausting hours of getting things ready for Halloween, you didn't object to the idea.

You sat down in one of the many empty seats, your posture impeccable at the table, otherwise Riddle would scold with you while you watched Cater and Trey work.

They had been tasked with draping faux spider webs over the windows and doors of the Heartslabyul dorm, adding an eerie touch to the otherwise elegant décor. Cater was on a ladder, stretching the delicate threads across the frame, while Trey stood below, ensuring they were evenly distributed.

“Hey!” Cater screamed at you, his usual playful grin on his face as he waved. “How’s it going over there? We’re almost done with the spooky stuff!” He flashed you a wink, his smile bright, though his eyes lingered on you a moment longer than necessary, as if trying to capture your reaction.

“It looks great,” you replied, smiling back. “You guys are really nailing it.”

“Of course we are,” Trey said with a chuckle, adjusting his glasses as his hair fell over his face. “We’ve got to make sure everything’s perfect, right?” His tone was light, but there was a subtle seriousness beneath it, a quiet determination to ensure that every detail was exactly how it should be.

Riddle, meanwhile, was still watching you. His eyes softened as he approached, his footsteps quiet on the stone path. He carried a crimson ribbon, its rich color vivid against his white gloves.

“I'II place this on the garden arch,” he said, a thin line of sweat running down his forehead. “It will be the finishing touch.”

You took the ribbon from him, your fingers brushing against his. There was a fleeting moment of contact, and you felt a spark, a quiet sense of connection that made your heart skip a beat as you looked over the ribbon. It was pretty and red, like his hair, soft too, you realized. Riddle’s gaze was steady, almost intense, as if he was trying to convey something without words.

“Its really pretty,” you said softly, nodding.

With that, smiling, Riddle moved to the arch, carefully unwinding the ribbon and looping it around the top, tying it into a neat, elegant bow. The ribbon fluttered slightly in the evening breeze, catching the last rays of sunlight. As he stepped back to admire it, he felt a presence beside him. Trey had followed his friend, in case he needed some help.

Meanwhile, Cater, ever the lively one, had been darting around the garden with his phone in hand, snapping photos and recording the progress of the decorations. He seemed to be everywhere at once, offering compliments and cracking jokes, but every so often, his focus would land on you, his playful energy shifting into something more.

“Come on, darling, let’s take a quick selfie!” Cater called out, rushing over with his phone raised, already posing with his signature grin. “We’ve gotta capture this moment — before everything’s done, right? Ater all, it's your first halloween with us.”

You hesitated for a second, but the next thing you knew, Cater had slipped an arm around your shoulders, pulling you close for the picture. The flash of his phone lit up your face, capturing the image of you standing beside him, half-smiling, in the midst of all the Halloween preparations.

“Perfect!” he exclaimed, showing you the picture before turning his phone to you once again. “We’ve gotta take more of these tonight. Maybe once the lights are all set up, huh? We’ll make it look super spooky. Tell me what's your costume later, kay?”

Riddle glanced over, his brows furrowing slightly as he adjusted the ribbon on one of the fences. “Cater, this isn’t the time for distractions. We need to focus if we’re going to finish the decorations properly. Some ribbons are crooked.”

Cater shrugged, slipping his phone back into his pocket. “Don’t worry, Riddle. We’re almost done anyway.”

Riddle didn’t respond, but his attention shifted back to you. His gaze lingered as you continued working, his sharp eyes noting every movement, every detail. There was a weight to his presence, a constant pressure that reminded you of how much he needed things to be perfect—not just for the dorm, but for you.

The minutes stretched into the evening, the sky darkening as the last touches of decoration were put in place. Trey had finished lighting the pumpkins, their warm glow casting dancing shadows across the garden. Cater had tied the final ribbons, their vibrant colors swaying gently in the breeze. And Riddle, satisfied that everything was exactly as it should be, stepped back to take in the full view of the transformed garden.

“It’s perfect,” Riddle said, his voice filled with pride. He looked to you, his expression softening in a way that was rare for him. “Thank you. We wouldn’t have been able to do this without your help.”

You smiled, feeling the weight of his praise settle on your shoulders. “I’m just glad everything turned out well.”

Trey walked over, standing by your side as he took in the scene. “You really brought everything together. It wouldn’t have been the same without you."

The warmth in his voice was undeniable, but so was the possessive undertone. Trey had a way of making it seem like you were the most important part of the team, but it always came with the reminder that you belonged here, with them. He, like Riddle, needed to know you were close, that you were safe.

Cater bounced over, his usual energy undimmed. “This is totally gonna be the best Halloween Heartslabyul’s ever seen! And hey, you’re the star of the show, as always,” he teased, nudging you playfully.

You nodded, though the constant attention made it hard to relax, your cheeks keep getting warmer. Their affection was overwhelming at times, always there. No matter how festive the decorations or how playful their words, you couldn’t escape the feeling that you were the centerpiece of something much bigger, something much more controlling.

As the night deepened, Riddle gave a small nod of approval. “We’re finished here. Let’s head inside. There’s still more to prepare for tomorrow, and I want everything to be flawless.”

You followed them back toward the dorm, the glow of the pumpkins illuminating the path. The garden was a testament to your hard work, to Riddle's obsessive care over every detail — and over you, as he kept you closer all day. Even as you walked, you could feel their eyes on you, a reminder that, in Heartslabyul, you were never truly alone.

Not even on Halloween.

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call-of-daydreams · 8 days ago

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𝐵𝒶𝒸𝓀 𝒮𝓉𝑜𝓇𝓎- 𝒥𝑜𝒽𝓃𝓃𝓎 𝒾𝓈 𝒞𝒶𝓉𝒽𝑜𝓁𝒾𝒸, 𝓈𝑜 𝒽𝑒 𝓁𝑜𝓋𝑒𝓈 𝓉𝑜 𝑔𝑜 𝒶𝓁𝓁 𝑜𝓊𝓉 𝒻𝑜𝓇 𝒞𝒽𝓇𝒾𝓈𝓉𝓂𝒶𝓈. 𝐻𝑒 𝒽𝑒𝓁𝓅𝓈 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝒹𝑒𝒸𝑜𝓇𝒶𝓉𝑒 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒽𝑜𝓊𝓈𝑒, 𝒷𝓊𝓉 𝒽𝑒 𝒶𝓁𝓌𝒶𝓎𝓈 𝒾𝓃𝓈𝒾𝓈𝓉𝓈 𝑜𝓃 𝒽𝒶𝓃𝑔𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒞𝒽𝓇𝒾𝓈𝓉𝓂𝒶𝓈 𝓁𝒾𝑔𝒽𝓉𝓈.

𝒞𝓌: 𝐹𝓁𝓊𝒻𝒻, 𝓅𝓇𝑒𝑔𝓃𝒶𝓃𝒸𝓎 𝓇𝑒𝓋𝑒𝒶𝓁

Johnny had always been a fan of the holiday season, particularly the Christmas festivities. As a devout Catholic, he loved celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ and spreading the joy and cheer of the season. And one of his favorite traditions was decorating the house for Christmas.

For Johnny, hanging the Christmas lights was always a must. "No one does it like me," he'd say with a grin, patting his chest in pride. But it wasn't just about being the best at it, it was about feeling the magic of the season and creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere in their home.

Every year, Johnny would drag out the boxes of Christmas decorations from the attic, a childlike excitement in his eyes. "It's time to get festive," he'd say with a chuckle, rummaging through the boxes and finding his favorite string of lights.

You, his wife, would watch him fondly as he went about his task. He would hang the lights outside on the house, wrapping the eaves and outlining the windows carefully, humming carols under his breath. And once they were done outside, he would move indoors to string the lights on the tree, the fireplace, and any other surface he could find.

As he worked, Johnny would occasionally turn to you and say, "Can you bring me the tinsel, baby?" or, "Do you think this looks even?" His focus was solely on getting the lights just right, his tongue peeking out the corner of his mouth as he concentrated.

Finally, when the lights were hung to his satisfaction, Johnny would step back and admire his handiwork, a proud smile on his face. "There," he'd say, his chest puffed out. "That's how it's done."

The house would be transformed into a winter wonderland, the lights casting a soft, warm glow throughout the rooms. And as you looked around, taking in the magic of the season, you couldn't help but feel thankful for Johnny's enthusiasm and dedication to making their home as festive as possible.

"Are you going to take all this down after christmas?"

Johnny nodded eagerly, his hands shoved in the pockets of his jeans. "Of course, baby. Wouldn't want the house to look like Christmas year-round, now would we?"

"You probably wouldn't mind it"

Johnny chuckled, a guilty look on his face. "You know me too well," he admitted, a grin tugging at his lips. "I do love the holiday season, but I guess I'll have to settle for just one month a year."

"Besides," he added, taking a step closer to you and wrapping his arms around your waist. "I think you'd get sick of it pretty quickly."

"I wouldn't but it would take the magic out of this time of year. Plus I wouldn't get to see my handsome military husband use his muscles yearly."

Johnny's chest puffed up at your compliment, a cocky smile on his lips. "You just like seeing me lift heavy things and reach high places," he teased, his hands sliding down to give your hips a playful squeeze.

"Well, it certainly doesn't hurt," you replied with a coy smile, looping your arms around his neck. "But I also like seeing you all festive and jolly. It's a nice change from that tired military man all the time."

"Hey, I can be serious and festive at the same time," Johnny protested, feigning insulted, despite the smile still tugging at his lips. "I can put up the decorations while silently judging your taste in Christmas décor"

"What's wrong with my Christmas decor?"

Johnny's eyes widened in mock shock, as if offended by your question. "Oh, I don't know. Maybe the fact that you insist on putting up that gaudy inflatable Santa next to the front door every year—"

You rolled your eyes playfully, swatting him on the chest. "That Santa was a gift from my grandma! I have to put it up every year."

"Plus she knows how much you love Christmas which is the whole reason she gave me that Santa." You continued.

Johnny chuckled, unable to argue with that logic. "Okay, fine. The Santa stays."

He leaned closer, his eyes gleaming with mischief. "But the elf collection in the living room is another story—"

"You contribute to that collection every year so don't even."

Johnny's shoulders sagged in mock defeat, a sly smile on his lips. "Guilty as charged. I do seem to have a habit of buying those little elves every time I pass by the Christmas section at the store..."

"Yeah, and I quote "I brought it because it made me think of you." Sound familiar?"

Johnny rubbed the back of his neck, looking sheepish. "Alright, alright, you caught me. But can you blame me? Those elves are adorable."

"You just said that you didn't like them"

Johnny chuckled, wrapping his arms around you tighter. "Baby, I just said I didn't like the elf collection. Doesn't mean I don't adore those little buggers. I do have to admit, they are pretty cute."

"Plus, they do remind me of you," he continued, his voice turning teasing. "Short and feisty."

You slap Johnny's chest playfully "On another note, I have a semi-early Christmas gift for you."

Johnny's eyes widened, a mixture of curiosity and excitement in his gaze. "A gift for me? And early, too? Christmas came early this year, I guess. What is it?"

"How do you feel about kids?"

Johnny's eyebrows shot up, clearly not expecting that question. He paused, his hand rubbing the back of his neck, a thoughtful look on his face. "Kids, huh? Well, I mean, I've always thought it would be a nice idea, you know, to have a little one running around someday. But...are you trying to drop a hint here or something?"

"Stay here, I'll be right back." You say as you disappear into the bedroom

Johnny watched you with a mix of confusion and curiosity as you left the room. He stood there in the living room, his mind racing as he tried to figure out what you were up to.

He waited anxiously, his gaze darting between the empty doorway and the boxes of Christmas decorations surrounding him. The suspense was killing him. "Babe, what are you doing in there?" he called out, his voice tinged with impatience.

You walk back into the living room holding a small box "Here you go"

Johnny's eyes widened as he saw the small box in your hands. A mixture of emotions flashed across his face - surprise, anticipation, and a hint of excitement.

He took the box tentatively, his fingers lightly cradling it. "What is it? Can I open it now?"

"Yes, you can open it now."

Johnny's heart seemed to skip a beat as he looked down at the small box in his hands. He carefully opened it, his movements slow and measured.

When the lid came off, Johnny's breath caught in his throat. Inside the box was a single item that made his eyes widen and his heart skip a beat.

It was a positive pregnancy test.

Johnny's mind seemed to go blank for a moment as he stared at the small stick, trying to process what it meant. He looked up at you, his eyes wide and filled with shock and disbelief. "Is...is this real?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

"Yes... and I would like an emotion from you so I know how you're feeling about this."

Johnny's mind was still reeling as he processed the news. A mix of emotions ran through him - shock, surprise, a hint of worry, but also a growing sense of happiness and excitement.

He looked up at you, meeting your gaze with a mixture of awe and joy in his eyes. "I...I don't even know what to say. I can't believe it. We're...we're going to be parents?"

Johnny's words were shaky, his voice thick with emotion, as he began to fully grasp the implications of the positive test. He placed the box down and took a step towards you, his eyes searching your face. "Are you sure? This is...this is real?"

“Yes, it’s real Johnny. We are going to be parents.”

Johnny's heart was pounding in his chest as he heard you confirm the news. He wrapped his arms around you tightly, pulling you close into his embrace. "We're gonna have a baby," he breathed, his voice filled with a mixture of joy and disbelief.

He buried his face in the crook of your neck, breathing in your familiar scent. "I...I can't believe it. I'm going to be a father. We're going to be parents." He repeated the words, as if trying to make them real.

"We're going to be parents" You confirm

Johnny held you tighter, his arms almost crushing you to his chest as the reality of the situation sank in. "A baby," he whispered, his breath warm against your skin. "We created a life."

He lifted his head, pulling back just enough so he could look into your eyes. His gaze was filled with a mixture of awe, love, and a hint of trepidation. "Are you...how do you feel about this? I mean, I know we talked about kids, but now that it's real, are you..." He trailed off, unable to find the right words.

"I'm...I'm a bit scared," you admitted, your voice slightly shaky, but also filled with a hint of excitement. "It's a huge step, you know. It's going to change our lives forever. But...but I think I'm also excited. I want to be a mom, Johnny. I want to have a family with you."

Johnny's heart swelled at your words, a wave of reassurance washing over him. "We can do this," he said, his voice firm and determined. "We're a team, remember? We've been through so much together. We can handle this. "His hands ran up your back, holding you close again. "I promise I'll be there for you every step of the way. We'll do this together."

He pulled back slightly, a smile tugging at his lips. "Plus, you're going to be a kickass mom. I can already tell."

You couldn't help but chuckle, some of the tension from before melting away at his compliment. "And you're going to be a pretty darn good dad," you replied, resting your head against his chest.

Johnny beamed at your words, his arms wrapping around you tighter. "Damn right I will be," he said, his voice filled with determination. "I'll protect our little one with everything I've got. And I'll do my best to make sure they know how much we love them."

"Even with you being away with the military?"

Johnny sighed, the weight of his job suddenly heavy on his shoulders. "Yeah, I know it'll be tough," he admitted. "Being away on missions, especially when the baby arrives...it's gonna be hard. But I promise you, I'll do my best to be there as much as I can. And we'll figure it out together, okay?"

"We'll get through it, baby," he continued, his voice filled with determination. "And our little one is gonna know how much we love them, no matter where I am or what I'm doing. We're in this together. You, me, and our baby. We're a team."

He pulled you close again, his arms encircling you once more. "And when I'm home, I'll make sure to spoil you both rotten."

You smiled into his chest, feeling a wave of reassurance wash over you. "You better," you replied, your voice filled with mock threat. "I'll hold you to those promises."

Johnny chuckled, his hand gently rubbing your back in a soothing motion. "Oh, don't worry," he said, a hint of mischief in his tone. "I always follow through on my promises, especially when it comes to you and our baby."

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noideabutsims · 7 days ago

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Donut Co. Christmas Cozy Rugs Simmers, Deck the Halls with Donut Co.'s Christmas Cozy Rugs! 🎄✨

'Tis the season to be jolly, and what better way to spread holiday cheer than with a set of festive rugs that'll make your Sims' homes feel extra cozy and magical?

Donut Co.'s Christmas Cozy Rugs are here to transform your Sims' floors into winter wonderlands. With 16 enchanting designs to choose from, there's a rug to capture every heart and spark holiday joy in every room.

Imagine your Sims gathered around the Christmas tree, presents piled high, a warm fire crackling in the fireplace, and their toes sinking into the soft, plush pile of a festive rug. From jolly snowmen and whimsical snow globes to classic wreaths and delectable cookie wreaths, these rugs are the perfect finishing touch for your holiday décor.

So, ditch those boring old carpets and let Donut Co.'s Christmas Cozy Rugs bring a touch of holiday magic to your Sims' homes. Download them today and let the festive fun begin! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Some images have my reshade on - anything tinted BLUE is NO reshade!*** If you are interested in my reshade, or want to see how much it changes the color - you can find it here: https://www.tumblr.com/noideabutsims/763209634729345024/remember-those-days-reshade-preset-guess-what?source=share ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Has 16 swatches New mesh

All of our CC can be found by typing " Donut " into the search bar! Name: Donut Co. Christmas Cozy Rugs Buy Mode Description: "Transform your Sims' homes into cozy holiday havens with these festive rugs! They're so soft and plush, your Sims will want to spend the whole season curled up by the fireplace, sipping hot cocoa, and soaking in the Christmas cheer.

With 16 enchanting designs to choose from, there's a rug to capture every heart and spark holiday joy in every room. From jolly snowmen and whimsical snow globes to classic wreaths and delectable cookie wreaths, these rugs are a feast for the eyes and a treat for the feet. So deck the halls and let these cozy creations transform your Sims' homes into winter wonderlands!" Will be releasing more content soon! stay tuned! ❤️ (NOT affiliated with EA or Maxis in any way! We just make CC!) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ DOWNLOAD: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/posts/118457782 Curseforge: https://legacy.curseforge.com/sims4/build-buy/donut-co-christmas-cozy-rugs Google Drive: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NNHpkqqerPhtSlkD21hiJlVBBu06qNKu/view?usp=sharing ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Due to financial issues and our promise of never paywalling our content; We have to ask that you guys download on our curseforge if you are willing and able. Just using their site to download makes us be able to have at least a small income that helps us when things get tough - however no matter where you download; we genuinely appreciate every download regardless!! If you can, you can find our curseforge here!: https://legacy.curseforge.com/members/the_lady_gaia/projects

Download it today and let the color explosion begin! 🌈✨

@alwaysfreecc @maxismatchccworld

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fujostore · 29 days ago

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FujoVerse Holiday Special

It’s that time of year again! Use code FOLGERS_SEASON for 15% off across all our sites (and join our Patreon for an even deeper 25% off discount)!

Check out the links below ⬇️ have the happiest of holidays 🥂 and thank you for your ongoing support! 💜

For the 2024 FujoVerse Holiday Special, we’ve revamped our store to include items from the FujoCoded campaign, including t-shirts, tote bags, stickers, and more.

Use code FOLGERS_SEASON for 15% off!

Looking for the classics? The BobaBoard merch of Folgers Seasons past has moved into our FujoCoded store, too! From stickers to charms, from washi tape to emoji sets, there are plenty of Boba-tans to bring home for the holidays.

And of course there are the much beloved FujoBoards, which (especially when paired with your favorite snacks) are sure to be the star of any décor. Choose your favorite cheese paddle, from YAOI to BLORBO and beyond!

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Want an even deeper discount? Become a sustaining monthly supporter to receive 25% total off your order! Tiers start at $3/month, and every bit adds up to support our mission: building a kinder, more diverse, more collaborative, and more weird internet.

If you would like to show off your FujoVerse merch, please do tag us on socials—we’d love to see how you decorated in a festive fujin way!

Bluesky

Fediverse (blorbo.social)

Twitter

or right here on Tumblr dot com, @fujostore

Please help us boost this post (like to charge, reblog to cast) 💘 Thank you!

#bobaboard #fujoverse #fujocoded #black friday #cyber week #fujoshi #fujin #fudanshi

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mlleclaudine · 4 months ago

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En couverture de Vanity Fair: Noémie Merlant, portrait d'une actrice en feu

by Norine Raja - Vanity Fair France, July 24, 2024

Tragic, comic and now erotic: Noémie Merlant continues to prove that she can play anything, including a radically contemporary version of Emmanuelle. But how do you reconcile sensuality and feminism in an era that leaves so little room for nuance? Norine Raja asked her.

Suddenly, the interview’s soundtrack changes drastically. At the café terrace where we're chatting, the lyrics of Maître Gims give way to an electro remix of the familiar melody of Bella Ciao.

Is it a sign? The music seems to have anticipated Noémie Merlant's thoughts: «At one point, I felt trapped. Now, it's like this song: freedom, freedom, freedom!» she says to the beat of the chorus. Has she reached the point of total emancipation? «Not yet, but I’m getting there», she says with a smile.

On this June afternoon, the actress is back home in the Paris suburbs after having attended two festivals in a row – Biarritz and Nantes – to present her second feature film as director, Les Femmes au balcon. Espresso started, unfussy outfit, bag casually laid on the floor, hair in a ponytail. She weighs her words, relishes the silences. Then, the next minute, she rivets you with her electric gaze and makes her point with total conviction. Just try to pigeonhole her. She’s got a 14-year career under her belt and as many different roles: a rebellious teenager in Les Héritiers (2014), a naive aristocrat in Le Retour du héros (2018), a trans man in A Good Man (2020). «She's a perfect blend of precision and abandon», said Céline Sciamma, who directed her in Portrait de la jeune fille en feu (2019). «She can play a powerful woman, but also hint at vulnerability», adds Audrey Diwan, winner of the Lion d’or for L'Événement (2021), who has just directed her in Emmanuelle – more on that later.

Because she remains an enigmatic figure in the public eye, no persona seems too outsized for her. Think she’s limited to dramatic roles? She displays unexpected comedic flair in L'Innocent (2022), in which she plays Louis Garrel's brash best friend: twinkling eyes, a mischievous attitude, raucous laughter. Her feigned nervous breakdown in a highway restaurant is unforgettable. The role (finally) earned her the César for Best Supporting Actress in 2023. Audrey Diwan hasn't forgotten that performance: «Every time she smiles in this film, she turns the world upside down.»

That same year, the filmmaker was working on a remake of Just Jaeckin's Emmanuelle, the famous erotic feature film of the Giscardian era. At the time, Noémie Merlant had never seen this landmark of 1970s sexual revolution, the first installment in a 15-part saga. So she met the director without any preconceived ideas or images. She was inspired by the character. «She must be exhausted in her search for pleasure», she suggested to Audrey Diwan, who offered her the role before the meeting was over. She insisted on watching the original film after shooting was done. Her verdict? «It's a disaster. The first part is interesting, with this open relationship. But then there's a storyline with Emmanuelle and an older man. She gets raped in front of him...»

The film has aged badly, but the 2024 version is free of any misogyny. The look and feel have been modernized. Replacing the postcard Thai décor and its whiff of orientalism is a luxurious Hong Kong setting. Not a young woman pandering to the desires of others, but an ambitious thirtysomething in the throes of self-discovery. A complete reinterpretation, in other words. I hesitate to ask: was she afraid to embrace this character and her sultry aura? She dismisses the idea out of hand: «That never even occurred to me. What interests me these days is working with women directors who are seeking to redefine representations of women, their imagination, their sexuality.»

Céline Dion, her idol

Sorority was Noémie Merlant's guiding principle, long before she became aware of or defined the concept of female solidarity. The daughter of a pair of real estate agents, she grew up in Rezé, a town of 40,000 people near Nantes, in a happy household where television held center stage. Evenings were spent watching Buffy the Vampire Slayer and crying over Titanic, she admits with a touch of embarrassment. Like thousands of French people, we'd like to tell her. She is very close to her mother and older sister, who suffers from a disability. To avoid adding to her parents' burdens, Noémie learned not to take up too much space. After years of therapy, she's come to realize: «It's nobody's fault, just the dynamics imposed by society. And then, at the same time, school teaches you not to make waves, society tells women to be well-behaved.»

So she found other means of expression. She was a soloist with the Nantes Conservatoire choir, and dreamed of following in the footsteps of her idol Céline Dion. She also practiced ballet and modern jazz for ten years. Her father was convinced that Noémie was destined for a career in the arts. One day in the mid-2000s, he saw an advertisement for the Cours Florent and encouraged her to try her luck. The 17-year-old was scared, but eventually let herself be convinced. She headed for the capital, where the transition was rather brutal. «When I arrived, I was thinking: “I don't know anyone, I have no culture... What am I going to do?”» She compensated for her imposter syndrome with a thirst for knowledge. Here she lists the directors she needed to catch up with: Bergman, Cassavetes, the great Italian filmmakers like Visconti. And reading? «There's nothing to be done about it, I just can’t», she says frankly.

At the same time, she pursued modeling to «earn money, even if you only got paid in clothes», she says pragmatically. She did photo shoots, fashion shows, and trips without really thinking about it. She didn't want to «bite the hand that fed her», and would realize only much later the full extent of the toll this experience took on her. The «Shut up and look pretty», the memory of being sexually assaulted by a photographer, the feeling that her body was no longer her own. To the point where she weighed only 45 kilos. «That gave me a massive eating disorder, which I'm still trying to overcome. I was anorexic-bulimic for almost ten years. I'm not any more, but I'm still hypervigilant about what I eat, and I'm always careful not to let myself go.»

There was only one thing to do: get out of the fashion world as quickly as possible. Sometimes, it's all about meeting someone. In 2013, the actress auditioned for Les Héritiers, a film by Marie-Castille Mention-Schaar inspired by a true story. It tells the story of how a teacher enrolls her most unruly pupils in a history competition, an experience that will change their worldview. Noémie Merlant was 24, but looked young enough to play the class rebel, wearing a leather jacket and with headphones on. On set, the filmmaker was impressed by her talent and intense presence.

Filming with Desplechin

A year later, another text message: «Would you be available to meet? I'd like to talk to you.» [Mention-Schaar] offered her the role of an average young girl, radicalized by jihadists, in Le Ciel attendra. To prepare for the role, Noémie Merlant met with teenage girls in the process of deradicalization, and tried to understand their mindset. «We found girls from all social backgrounds, cultures and religions. For many of these teenagers, there was the feeling of being misunderstood by society, but also frequently the beginnings of anxiety about death and shame. The desire for an ideal, for something unconditional, even in love stories.» The film was released in a volatile context, less than a year after the attacks on November 13. But the actress took a cleareyed view of this phenomenon, which she believed revealed youth in search of meaning.

This total commitment paid off: in 2017, she was nominated for a César in the Most Promising Actress category. In an interview filmed around this time, she appears smiling and fulfilled. Well aware, too, that the road ahead is fraught with pitfalls: «The hardest thing is to maintain self-confidence, even when you don't believe in yourself, or when you have periods of emptiness.»

What was Noémie Merlant dreaming of at this very moment? When asked about whom she’d like to collaborate with, she almost mechanically cited Arnaud Desplechin or Abdellatif Kechiche. She didn't know it yet, but the revolution would be born in a female microcosm. In 2019, the young woman played a painter hired to create the likeness of an aristocrat (Adèle Haenel) in Portrait de la jeune fille en feu. Céline Sciamma's fourth feature is an incredibly intimate costume drama: a manor house, a cliff overlooking the sea and just four characters. At first, the actress was confused by the script: «Conflicts are nonexistent or immediately defused.» The absence of dominance hierarchies unsettled her: there were no saviors or anyone being saved; there were creators but no muses. «Just a gentleness and a wonderful equality. And in spite of everything, there’s an exciting story full of surprises. That's what makes it so powerful.» A head-on collision between two great actresses, where their eyes meet, sizing each other up, caressing each other. Like when Noémie Merlant’s character places a mirror between her lover's thighs, then sketches her self-portrait.

A box-office success across the Atlantic and a critical triumph, the film was in the running for ten awards at the 2020 Césars. But on the evening of the ceremony, one name brought all the tensions into focus: Roman Polanski. The director, who is currently facing several rape allegations, had been nominated in several categories for his film J'accuse. French cinema had never been so fractured. Adèle Haenel, who revealed that she had been molested as a child by director Christophe Ruggia, was in shock. For her, honoring Polanski was tantamount to «spitting in the face of all victims». No one heeded her: the filmmaker won the prize for best director, to the applause of part of the audience. «Someone shouted: “Well done!” recalls Noémie Merlant. It was clearly a response to Adèle's speaking out.» In protest, the cast of Portrait de la jeune fille en feu left the auditorium, after shouting a resounding «Shame!» In the wake of her commitment, Adèle Haenel announced her retirement from cinema in 2023. Has Noémie Merlant thought about following her example? «It wasn't easy to keep going, she acknowledges. I admire Adèle's courage. But staying is also a way of continuing the fight.» The actress has no illusions about the seventh art. No promotional newspeak, no generalities or shortcuts in her remarks. Even when she salutes the «extraordinary people» she has worked with, she qualifies that with «but that's not always the case». You get the sense that she is torn between the desire to talk about her difficult experiences and the fear of endless controversy. She mentions «casting directors, actors, who promise you things». How do you recognize them?  «Thanks to my experience as a model, I'm like a fish that spots the hook before the worm.»

Portrait de la jeune fille en feu «changed everything» for her. She set off in search of more meaningful roles. She reassessed her place not only in cinema, but also in the world. She reflected on «patriarchal oppression», confronted the traumas that resurfaced. «Even my relationship dynamic no longer suited me.» She left her partner at the time and moved in with Sanda Codreanu, a friend from the Cours Florent. She hesitates over the precise terms, but speaks of «escape» and «sanctuary». In this haven, words flow freely and bodies are liberated. They laugh as much as they talk about the violence they've suffered. She, who used to move from one relationship to another, embraced a new perspective on relationships. Why should romantic love count for more than friendships? Why force yourself to have sex to please the other person? Noémie Merlant now knows what she wants... or rather what she doesn't want. These days, she's in a «healthy, unstructured» relationship. She adds: «We're not afraid to experience things separately. The important thing is that each of us is fulfilled.»

The Cate Blanchett method

Recovery also involves the body. Onscreen nudity doesn't bother her. «There are fewer and fewer actresses who agree to undress, which I understand. But I don't have any issue with it, so I'm happy to go for it. I think there are things to explore and advocate for in this freedom.» She asserts her willingness to explore eroticism and sexuality through the eyes of other directors. Female desire in all its forms is a common thread running through her filmography: she develops an attraction to an amusement park ride in Jumbo, plays a writer infatuated with a libertine photographer in Curiosa.

For a long time, sex scenes had been reduced to a few lines in a script and improvised on set. In Jacques Audiard's Les Olympiades, the ballet of bodies is carefully designed. Playing a thirtysomething woman who becomes fascinated by a camgirl, Noémie Merlant was coached by choreographer Stéphanie Chêne. She learned to abandon dialogue in favor of her gaze and body language. For the first time, she thought about her character's movements. «It allows you to feel safe and to work with respect above all else. And so you can go further, seeking precision through imagination.» Farewell to the good little girl. She avoids tyrannical filmmakers, those who push the actors' limits. At one point, when a director tried to manipulate her to extract emotions, she almost walked off the set. «I made him understand that I was making this film above all for pleasure and for creativity, and that I couldn't accomplish anything with that kind of method. In the end, it turned out well, but I wish I hadn’t had to go through that.» It was like revenge for all those outbursts she’d had to swallow.

Behind the camera, Noémie Merlant has also chosen irreverence. In her second feature, Les Femmes au balcon, she imagines a Marseilles-style Rear Window, somewhere between comedy and outright gore. The pitch: three girlfriends have fun spying on their mysterious neighbor across the street, with whom they develop a relationship that goes beyond exhibitionism. It was difficult for her to find an actress who would agree to film naked, until she came across the luminous Souheila Yacoub. One question nagged at her: how to film a body without sexualizing it? First, by disarming the issue with humor. «Right from the start, I give the viewer a heads-up: “Here you go, boobs. Now that you've had a good look at them, let's move on.”» She also uses the expression «shirtless» for women, a way of denouncing double standards. There's no idealizing of her heroines' bodies. She films them in their everyday lives, in positions that are not always flattering, and welcomes a touch of vulgarity. «It's a form of sincerity as well.»

Taking risks is finally paying off. In the last couple of years, Noémie Merlant has turned a corner in her career. Like Marion Cotillard, Adèle Exarchopoulos and Juliette Binoche, she is now sought out by foreign filmmakers. In 2021, Todd Field sent her the script for Tár. And for a significant role. She plays the assistant to a famous orchestra conductor, starring opposite Cate Blanchett – and speaking perfect English. An intimidating experience? Idolization is not her style: «It's important to demystify people who are in the limelight.» Still, she took the time to observe Cate Blanchett in action. The way she handled a complicated sequence shot or filmed the same scene twenty times without complaining. Her ability to juggle lessons: piano, German, baton handling. «There's no mystery. It's all about the love of the craft, precision and the quest to relinquish yourself to the role.» She adds, a bit idealistically: «Often the ones who succeed are also good people... Not always, but I prefer to tell myself that.»

Yet Noémie Merlant has no desire to sacrifice her whole life for her profession. For a long time, she took one role after another, as if for fear of missing out or being forgotten. These days, her priorities have changed. «I want to do Qua-li-ty», she says with a smile and a funny inflection. Wouldn't this be a good time to enjoy it, too? Her financial situation now allows her to help her family. She has adapted her house to accommodate her father, who has been in a wheelchair since having a stroke in 2009. She has helped her parents find a new home, and paid for outside help to relieve her «very exhausted» mother. How does her father view her success today? «He's very, very, very proud. He tells himself that he was lucky, because it might not have worked out.» He follows every step of her career, keeping track of every press article. «He's definitely going to be handing out Vanity Fair to all his friends.» You can sense her admiration for this close-knit clan, for their ability to face adversity. A few years ago, she took out her camera to film them in their daily lives, around Christmas time. She has started editing, but still has some work to do. Recently, she went back to the rushes, but hasn't managed to finalize the project. Perhaps it's too intimate. I propose a hypothesis: what if she had primarily sought to freeze time? She continues: «There's something interesting about the way they talk, the way they live, with a lot of humor and joy in spite of everything. I want to share this story, because it can do a lot of people good.» Could this be the next step toward freedom?

[Please don’t repost this anywhere, in part or in whole. Feel free to reblog, or at least cite your source and provide a link back here. Asking permission would be nice in an ideal world, but I’m a realist – I know far too well how easy it is to appropriate stuff on Tumblr. I would be the first to admit that my translations are not perfect – there are some words and phrases that simply do not drop neatly into an equivalent in English, and I constantly fix typos and make changes or corrections in older posts – but they do take a lot of work and time. Thanks for understanding. - C.]

h/t @morningmightcomebyaccident - thank you, Grey!

#Noémie Merlant #Les Femmes au balcon #Emmanuelle #L'Innocent #Portrait of a Lady on Fire #Céline Sciamma #Les Olympiades #TÁR #Vanity Fair France #July 2024 #thank you‚ Grey!#long post #my translation

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