Tea Cozy

One of a set of four, this Japanese tea cup is carved from a single block of Keyaki wood (shizen-boku). Prized for it's density and dramatic swirling grain, Keyaki is the most costly of the Japanese woods. The picture of elegant simplicity, it's a practical work of art. ($40)

Sailor's Tattoo

Roomy enough to use as a beachtote or weekender, the large-sized totebag from Seabags is the perfect carryall. Made from recycled sails, it's designed to take a beating so you can count on enjoying this bag for quite some time. The sailor's knot on the rope handles are an elegant touch. This is also a bag most men wouldn't mind hauling about as well.($145)

Rosebud...

Tired of hearing the exclamations of delight when your co-workers receive flowers from their lovers on the job? Well quit sulking and get yourself some flowers — blue roses will do. Adorn yourself with finery befitting a princess, like this gold and turquoise ring. The polished gemstone is hand-carved into the shape of a rose and cleverly set in twisting 18kt gold vines. This flower can be enjoyed for a lifetime and won't wilt, turn brown, and die. Take that lover boy! ($1,705)

Hat Check

"I realized early on in my career as a milliner that most women had lost the art of wearing a hat with confidence." - Louise Green
The above quote is so very true. When do you ever see women wearing real hats? How many hats do you own? Definitely more popular in the South, especially amongst the Sunday set — church ladies own atleast six! All of the hats at Louise Green Millinery are handmade, like this funky fresh straw English rider. ($162)

Norma Jeans

Vintage copycats My BabyJo have these delicious Marilyn Monroe style high waisted stretch denim jeans in stock. Finally, a pair of jeans which allows you to embrace your curves without the danger of 'crack attack.' Possibly the only wardrobe item both you and your mom will agree on, go ahead and get her a pair too! Really. When was the last time she bought a pair of jeans? Guaranteed to be ten times more figure flattering than skinny jeans, they have a one button snap closure and cherry appliqué on the front right pocket. ($85)

Three Card Monte

I recently became acquainted with the Getting Things Done (GTD) method of time management. I haven't read the book, but from what I gleaned online it's pretty simple; mostly involving checklists and writing everything you need to get done on a 3x5 note card. This simple concept has made the author millions; and book accessory company Levengers has capitalized with these pre-printed note cards. Choose from To Do cards, Project Planner Cards, Seven-Day Planner cards or a combination of the three. A 51 card sampler of all three sells for $8.

Eskimo Booty

With the weatherman predicting triple digit temperatures for this coming week it may seem a bit premature to begin the search for new winter boots. But never the one to follow social mores, I came across these beauties in my quest for "Eskimo boots." Mukluks are traditional soft Eskimo boots, often fur-lined with and made of sealskin or reindeer skin. Now that the trend has reached it's peak and begun it's inevitable popularity decline, the time to swoop upon this modern moose hide variety is now. It's 20 times less bulky than last year's rabbit fur version — with the added appeal of not appearing as if you've strapped road kill to your feet. Weather proofing costs extra, D'oh! — but it's still a reasonable purchase for $250.

Wardrobe Wakeup Call

Punctuate that stack of boring blue denim with a bright splash of color from California-based brand Denim of Virtue. The purple skinny leg jean hearkens back to a time when crayola colors and acid wash were all the rage. Get your Salt 'n Pepa on with an asymmetrical hairdo, high-top Reeboks, gold chain, and of course the B-girl stance. ($190)

Sock-a-Bye, Baby

That's right, these socks go past the knee up into thigh territory. Sure to keep your gams warm once the weather turns, stock up now on these super-fly cotton and spandex socks. A few inches of ribbing at the top keeps them up, fold or scrunch down for a variety of looks. Get a pair in all 11 colors — a worthy investment at $10 apiece.

Caramel Sundae

Coach, The Brooklyn Museum and the Metropolitan Museum are but a few of the big rollers snapping up Bonnie Cashin clothing for research and display. This classic leather wrap trench is a prime example of her no frills take on outerwaar. Superior construction paired with quality butter-soft leather. The wide aviator collar and matching original belt in excellent condition makes this a vintage must have! A worthy wardrobe investment, this 70s era trench will never loose it's style. ($495)

Cat Woman

There's something slightly subversive about this cat covered cardigan. Which is probably exactly what the designers of Swedish brand Mjolk had in mind. Made of pure, super fine 8 gauge wool, Dr. Huxtable may have loved it, but you should vamp it up Dita Von Teese style. Mix in a black silk bustier, wiggle skirt, pompadour, superchunk Dior platforms, fishnets, a dash of naughty and smidge of spice. A bewitching look for Amy Winehouse methinks.($335)

Nouveau Riche

If ever invited to a Gatsby themed party, my costume begins with these shoes. I'd drink Champagne like water and Charleston the night away in these gold, reptile-embossed leather maryjanes. The cutout details on each side are complimented by black leather piping and a shapely 3" stacked wooden heel. These Miss Sixty pumps are currently on Clearance at Victoria's Secret for $90.

Sake Sake Now

A perfect housewarming gift, non? The Velma orangey-red color is kickin' and, the sleek design on this ceramic sake set is decidedly sexy. Pearl River's got it for $32; browse the sake section for a multitude of options. Add a warm Japanese rice wine, I'm sure your local wine store will have a small selection because the flavor is spreading.

Daughter of Shanghai

I've never worn a corset, to be all trussed up doesn't seem very appealing to me. But not having a super-tiny 22" waist to fit into vintage couture is becoming an issue, and I realized that a girdle or corset was the reason. Women 60 and 70 years ago didn't just have tiny waists, they had help! It was all just an illusion, so I searched and found this pale green Chinese brocade corset by What Katie Did, suitable for a varity of cup sizes, and modestly priced for a handmade garment. (£119/$239)

Mustard Lovers Unite!

Summer is finally here and we're all working out trying to get fit while the sun shines. If you're like me, you're beginning to feel your age, and a good tub soak is the usual remedy. Epsom salts will retain it's place under the sink, but Dr Singha's Mustard Bath, ($10) has just taken the place of honor. Based on an Ayurvedic herbal formula, it smells wonderfully pungent and will actually clear your sinuses. The Mustard Rub, ($17) is a blend of organic and essential oils that you must insist your massage therapist use. Buy in bulk because this product isn't in many stores.

Tally Ho?

Is this tobacco-colored Burberry rubber riding boot pretty or ugly? I really can't decide, but I am very, very intrigued. Can it double as a rain boot? If it can withstand horse manure can it also withstand torrential downpours? The rainy streets of Manhattan of late have become a venue for an unofficial cool rain boot competition. If it's not an Aigle or Tretorn then it better be something equally pretty and/or interesting. Tuck in a pair of jeans, pop the collar on a Lacoste Polo and splash away with first prize. ($256)

Hard Candy Shell

The last time I traveled by air I was forced to check my overstuffed expandable soft case rolly-bag. After 15 minutes of scanning a sea of identical black bags rotating on the baggage carousel, I realized my bag was lost. It was later delivered by cab with a damaged wheel. This incident has convinced me it's time to crossover to the Heys hard shell. I wont be able to pack as much, but that's probably a good thing and my belongings will be protected. Stand out in a crowd with this stylish case, currently on sale for $68.

Causing a Fracas

Quite possibly the most intoxicating floral scent ever created for a woman, Fracas is at the top of my fragrance list. During humid 90 degree Brooklyn days, this handy Fracas Eau de Parfum Roll-On is a girls best friend. Apply to pulse-points and that subtle sheen of perspiration will smell of tuberose and gardenia. Reapply daily for best results, comes with a handy velvet case for protection from the million other things cluttering your handbag. Reasonably priced at $25, this package is only available at Sephora.

Glamour Gal

Every girl needs an elegant lady dress for those inevitable social engagements which pop up each summer. From vintage copy cats Trashy Diva comes this classic cut silk swing dress. A subtle floral print on heavy weight silk crepe de Chine hearkens Fifties era Glamour. The fitted bodice helps to enhance the cleavage by emphasizing the waist; and the knee length circle skirt is made for twirling on the dance floor. Throw a Pashmina 'round your shoulders and do the damn ting! ($195)

Lemon Drops

Semi-precious stones aren't exactly gems of great value, but they sure are purty and several tiers above those synthetic pretenders. Citrine is a crystalline quartz, a rather common material, but add brilliant facets and 14kt gold wire and you get these lovely ear baubles. ($78)

Gleaming the Cube

Searching for that perfect high school graduation gift? Continue the tradition of giving trunks with this classy cedar and stainless steel cube variety. This handsome locking trunk can withstand the weight of one quarterback or two cheerleaders. The future co-ed can lock and store expensive electronics and such, plus it can double as seating or a side table. This stylish cube will remain relevant for years and is a worthy investment for students of any age. Costs $115, plus $5 more for an engraved nameplate.

Leopard Lady Love

Retro style is my absolute favorite, and this leopard beret represents the 40s era to a T! Modeled by modern pin-up Bernie Dexter, this is the head gear for any girl who has ever been described as "sassy." Get your inner Marilyn on by accessorizing with a slinky top and wiggle skirt. When I get dressed I usually begin with shoes, but in this case I'm building my outfit around the hat. Handcrafted in British Columbia, this faux fur beret is a definite must have! ($110)

Yellow Fever

Perfect for a Manhattan roof-top party, this ruched silk tube top from Arden B is cool mustard sophistication. It has a sweetheart neckline, complimentary to bust sizes A to D, and a frilly silk ruffled panel front and center. Pair with denim, earthy arm bangles, dangly earrings and super-hot high heel mules. Fully lined in cotton with a side zipper, this top will get you through many hot summer nights. Just make sure you're not photographed twice in this memorable number. ($68)

Plan B

If your cellphone ever went on the fritz or was lost you understand the value of having a good old fashioned hard copy. The classic little black book is a stylish way to keep your numbers just in case your SIM card has been crispy fried to perfection. With "Little Black Book" embossed on the patent leather cover, this makes a perfect gift for a friend or yourself. Perfectly priced at $25 from luxury catalog Vivre, this one's a no-brainer.

Yellow Polka Dot Bikini

This fully lined retro-style bikini is a definite head turner. Your admirers won't be able to stop humming the tune to the famous song. A large gold center ring holds the bandeau top together. The hipster cut bottoms are gathered on each side with convenient drawstrings; show a little or a lot, it's up to you. Add Ray-Ban sunglasses, a floppy hat and plenty of sunscreen for beachy keen perfection. ($148)

Spy Girl

This Claret silk and French lace bra and hipster from lingerie couturier Spoylt is super sexy. The utility garter is the icing on the cake; couldn't you imagine Jennifer Garner wearing this in an episode of Alias? Each item is sold separately and the total is $305. Pricey? Of course! Luxury ain't cheap, especially the handcrafted variety. Made in London, this is one of the premiere lingerie brands.

Bridesmaid's Dream

Looking for a dress that will please both the bride and the bridesmaid? Check out this lovely silk corsage dress from MaxStudio for $298. Perfect for a summer wedding, this 100% silk chiffon dress hits right below the knee. Don't leave your bridesmaid in tears over some ugly off the rack bridal store nightmare. This dress is a keeper and can be worn long after the wedding.

Shakespeare in the Parka

My favorite part of this oversize double-breasted denim parka are the 3/4 length gathered sleeves. So very French, so very feminine. It's a lightweight jacket that can take you through the occasional chilly or rainy mid-summer's night right into fall. Pair with skinny cropped leggings, flats, a smart cap and some killer shades.
Oh la la! ($315)

Techno-Color

While flipping channels this morning, I came across Joan Rivers on QVC hawking her Techno-Color Sport Link Watches. Made of acrylic and stainless steel with fake bling on the face, they're super cute and remind me of the 80's Swatch watch. Fun for summer, I wouldn't mind having one or two to stack alongside some plastic bangles. Like totally dude! ($60)

Ghost Face Killah

I've been coveting this amazing Philippe Starck chair since I saw it in my DWR catalog; I recently got a chance to rest my butt on an actual Louis Ghost Armchair in the Macy's lingerie department. How random that they have one.... It's actually very comfortable. There are about a half dozen tints, and my favorite of course is the ice blue, which looks a bit lavendary. So the question is: How much is too much to pay for what is essentially a plastic chair? ($362)