Tuesday, July 31, 2007

Robe de Chambre

ruffle robeIt's very interesting to see how other people live, for instance a French woman I knew had a very eclectic bathroom. Dried flowers, tons of expensive skin products like Jurlique and Decleor, and a lovely silk kimono hanging from a hook, a page right out of an Anthropologie catalog. Miles ahead of my Neutrogena and frumpy comfort robe. Step it up a few notches by replacing said frump with this luxurious short ruffle robe. Giving you a reason to utter the classic line, "Excuse me while I slip into something a bit more comfortable..." ($150)

Monday, July 30, 2007

Little Miss Sunshade

Battenberg lace parasolRemember when Diddy's former valet Farnsworth Bentley was always in tow with that huge sun blocking umbrella? Well this summer, create a sensation with this lovely Battenberg lace parasol. The ultimate Victorian ladies accessory has been embraced by celebugoth child Kelly Osborne, to help keep her pale skin Vampire fresh. Alternate colors are classic black, white, ivory, and red. Perfect for outdoor weddings, Valentine's and Easter celebrations, and Civil War battle reenactments. ($40)

Sunday, July 29, 2007

America's Next Hand Model

One Minute ManicureI like products with immediate results and One Minute Manicure is one of them. You can probably mix this up in your kitchen, but who has the time? Made from dead sea salts, emollient and essential oils, simply massage onto dry hands, feet, elbows and knees to see and feel the difference. Strike a pose in the mirror because ugly cuticles and wrinkly hands will be a thing of the past! ($28)

Saturday, July 28, 2007

Hey Shorty

Bermuda shortsBermuda, best known for it's treacherous triangle also invented the short pant, known as Bermuda shorts. Considered appropriate business attire on the island, perhaps you can get away with wearing these denim versions with heels on a summer Friday. Made in California, by denim guru Serfontaine, get 'em while you can. ($165)

Friday, July 27, 2007

Monty Python

python platform sandalsSqueeze into your sexiest wiggle dress and throw those hips like Sophia Loren when you step out in these python platform sandals. British designer Emma Hope appreciates vintage stylings, and here you can see that influence. High quality Italian craftsmanship and reinforced buckle holes ensure long time wear. (£379/$520)

Thursday, July 26, 2007

Shoe Loves Ya Baby?

Velcro sneaker walletUsually I don't like to talk to anyone when jogging, not because I'm rude or in the zone, but because I can barely breath much less hold a conversation. But today, someone complimented my supercool sneaker wallet. It attaches to laces with Velcro and has a zipper compartment large enough to hold a set of keys, a few quarters and some folded bills. ($10)

Wednesday, July 25, 2007

Berrylicious

strawberry charm necklaceAlthough you can still find the imported variety, the local strawberry season is coming to an end. Strawberries and cream, strawberries and balsamic vinegar and strawberry shortcake are quite delicious, but here's a variety that won't wither on the vine. Made of pink sapphires and 14kt rose and yellow gold, this yummy strawberry charm necklace stays fresh year round. ($1,375)

Tuesday, July 24, 2007

Petticoat Junction

white eyelet skirted bikiniIt may be late in the season, but the beaches are still open and the temperature's still high. So take advantage of all of the summer sales, like this white eyelet skirted bikini, marked down from $168 to $50 at Free People. A sexy combination of demure meets provocative, the hot pink lining peeks through the eyelet.

Monday, July 23, 2007

Beauty Classic

Smith's Rosebud SalveYou can't mess with a classic — which is why Smith's Rosebud Salve, has been using the same formula since 1892! Packaged in a vintagey reusable tin, it can be used on chapped lips, dry hands and elbows, diaper rash and even bug bites. Makes a great stocking stuffer. ($6)

Sunday, July 22, 2007

Green Tea

Cast Iron Melon TeapotDelight your guests and bring texture into your boring kitchen with this traditional Japanese tetsubin (cast-iron teapot). The delicate, raised design and special green glaze is cast into a realistic looking cantaloupe. Spoon loose tea into the stainless-steel mesh infuser for the perfect pot of tea each an every time. ($75)

Saturday, July 21, 2007

Sexy Back

blue velvet vintage gownGet ready for your close-up in this red carpet-worthy vintage blue velvet gown. Play the part of the flirtatious southern belle and dazzle the masses with the flash of sequins and beads arranged in abstract patterns on the silk halter-style bodice and sash ties. The bestest part of the gown is the back, two thin panels of velvet dramatically extend from nape to waist. 360 degrees of fabulousness! When the celebs do vintage, they go to TheFrock.com for museum quality gowns such as this 1930s confection. Lovey! ($2700)

Friday, July 20, 2007

Florence Mills

Florence MillsForgotten stage star Florence Mills was one of the first black international superstars of the early 20th century. Here, in a beaded and embellished flapper dress, she was the first black woman featured in Vogue magazine. A child prodigy, she took the stage at the age of 4; singing, dancing and acting. Simultaneously conquering Europe with long production runs in Paris and London while helping to usher in the Harlem Renaissance by headlining Broadway shows, her life ended tragically at the age of 31.

Thursday, July 19, 2007

Tougher Than Leather

zip top leather satchelWith the appearance of a tangle of roots and vines on a forest path, this truly unique satchel has an earthy vibe. Complimentary to summer frocks and willowy 60s ensembles, the Italian leather on this zip top purse is perfectly tanned and weathered for a vintage look. ($1,445)

Wednesday, July 18, 2007

Gussied Up

50s style party dressThis lovely frock walks the fine line between beautiful and gaudy. Tiers of lace, an attached skinny belt, and ribbon embellishments on the bust decorate the teal and black print. An incredible amount of confidence is required to pull off this 50s style party dress. Accessorize with a dramatic wide brim hat, black lace gloves, matte red lips, and blue patent leather pumps. ($385)

Tuesday, July 17, 2007

Oil-rich

Mario Badescu drying maskForehead turning into an oil field this summer? Draw out excess oil with this drying mask, it literally cleared up my "heat bumps" overnight. Spread a thin layer over problem areas before bed and wake up with dramatically clearer skin. Dot on pimples and experience the magic. The Kaolin clay leaves a bit of residue on pillowcases and your pores, so follow with a toner. Geepers, it's my favorite product of the moment! ($18)

Monday, July 16, 2007

Wristy Business

leather wrist clutchLike an oversized corsage, this brilliant leather wrist clutch holds the nitty-gritty while remaining secure on your carpus. A perfectly functional and unique accessory for a night on the town. ($158)

Sunday, July 15, 2007

Rock Em, Sock Em

socks with heelsWhen's the last time you saw someone wearing socks with heels? Probably not since Jem and the Holograms, but it's still a great look. The difficulty in replicating this look is finding socks thin enough to fit your heels; look to the hosiery department. Like thread counts for sheets, dernier is the density measurement for hosiery. The lower the dernier, the more light and sheer. These socks are 40 dernier, that's right at the low end of the heavier weight yarns, perfect for heels. 70 plus is getting into compression territory, worn mostly by nurses, they actually improve circulation and help prevent varicose veins! ($7/$60)

Saturday, July 14, 2007

Mexicali Rose

silk halter dressRelease your inner Frida Kahlo in this lovely multicolor silk halter dress. Find a fiesta to attend because this dress was made for flirting, salsa dancing and generally being the center of attention. ($218)

Friday, July 13, 2007

Zora Neale Hurston

Zora Neale HurstonNot a lot of people know this, but Zora Neale Hurston was a hat lady. I don't have any hard evidence, but in nearly every photograph I've seen, she's wearing a hat. Usually tilted to the side, sheilding her face. These people are rare, I don't know any at all — the hat people. I've recently enjoyed the pleasures and attentions of wearing a hat, but better than shoes? Better than chocolate?

Thursday, July 12, 2007

Double Clutch

bright clutch purseFair trade company, Mad Imports, employs local artisans on the island of Madagascar to create lovely and unique fashion accessories. This bright clutch purse was one of their first designs, the carved wooden handles rest perfectly in the curve of your palm. The boa bog tree design is hand embroidered onto the raffia and cotton body. ($78)

Wednesday, July 11, 2007

The Silky Way

silk charmeuse blouseIf M.C. Escher had designed women's clothing, I'm sure he would've decorated a blouse exactly like this. The intricate construction includes contrast stitches, cross stitches, silk chiffon pleats and shirring. Whether you pair this silk charmeuse blouse with jeans or a pencil skirt, my only suggestions are fire-engine red lipstick and heels the same color. ($168)

Tuesday, July 10, 2007

Palm Reader

palm print silk dressFlowy and demure with a flash of funk is what this dress is about. Made of silk chiffon, you'll have to break out the full length slip for this diaphanous dress. The waist tie, made of silver leather, adds a pop to the otherwise muted palm print. The triple tier solid bands of fabric near the hem add more detail to what would otherwise be a boring shift. ($481)

Monday, July 9, 2007

Autobag, Transform!

chevron travel bagNo doubt inspired by the classic cartoon, designer Kim White transforms vintage fabrics from old furniture and car seats into fabulous bags. Yep, seats from automobiles — like a clutch made from a 1983 Camaro, or this red chevron travel bag from a 1979 GM. Black leather handles and trim with sturdy metal feet and zip top round out the details. This bag is definitley more than meets the eye. ($380)

Sunday, July 8, 2007

License to Grill

table grillFirst there was the tiny hibachi grill, great for small families. Then there was the George Forman grill, which of course isn't really a grill since you plug it in. Now we have this beautiful charcoal table grill, the next gen of hibachi. Made of porcelin and stainless steel, it's sleek, stylish and portable. Perfect for shish kebab and munchies at the park picnic. ($300)

Saturday, July 7, 2007

Geta Clue

traditional Japanese sandalThey may appear to be the results of a tryst between a clog and a flip flop, but the Geta is actually a traditional Japanese sandal. These Western-style versions have a smaller heel and rubberized soles; an interesting alternative to the Dr. Scholl's classics. Hai! ($60)

Friday, July 6, 2007

Bed Dressed

cotton eyelet nightieWhatever happened to getting dressed for bed? Yes, waking up with mussed hair in a BF's tee shirt can be cute, but a sweetly sexy cotton eyelet nightie is better. Lightweight cotton is essential for hot summer nights, which is why fine linen importer Lartisana went to India for these handmade confections. Adjustable straps, ribbon bow ties and lace at the bust and hem round out the details. Bulk up your bedtime wardrobe and get one in each color. ($48)

Thursday, July 5, 2007

Hemp for Victory

hemp denim pencil skirtHemp denim and coconut buttons? Sounds like something Mary Ann whipped up on "Gilligan's Island" — this hemp pencil skirt was handmade by enterprising Moroccan women through ethical clothier Amana. They train, pay fare wages and ensure ethical working conditions to their artisans for creating clothing made from organic and natural materials. (£50/$68)

Wednesday, July 4, 2007

Glove Affair

silk crochet glovesAdd that touch of class to your summer frock ensemble with a pair of white gloves. But not just any gloves mind you, a pair of silk crochet gloves. A two-button closure is on the inside wrist, the length is perfectly prim at 2" above the wrist, trimmed with a scalloped detail. Purchase in bulk as these are the only silk crochet gloves I've been able to find online. ($14)

Tuesday, July 3, 2007

Northern Lights

Swarovski crystal tiaraAnyone living the glamorous life knows that the tiara is the ultimate bejeweled accessory. Precious gems and metals atop one's head is usually reserved for the blue bloods. Cop this Swarovski crystal tiara topped with clear bezel-set and navette-cut crystals, add an H.R.H. before your name and nobody will ever know the difference. Tell them you're the crown princess of Zamunda. ($475)

Monday, July 2, 2007

Mary Jane Girls

round-toe patent leather mary janesDelman shoes, the recently resurrected brand, were once famously worn by Marilyn Monroe and Marlene Dietrich to name a few. These classic black 3" round-toe patent leather mary janes look like exact vintage reproductions. 1/2" shorter than the pointy Manolo Blahnik version this shoe is decidedly less for $299.

Marilyn Monroe

Delman mary jane pumpsPeople used to dress a bit more formally when traveling by plane, quite the luxury in 1954. And for a movie star, the choice travel accessories to be photographed when disembarking are a black mink stole, leather coat casually thrown over shoulder, Saks Fifth Avenue hat box and Delman mary jane pumps. Now besides the slight dip in the vance, can you tell the difference?

Sunday, July 1, 2007

Minty Fresh

mint green crocodile hoboColombian born Nancy Gonzalez designs distinctive bags for women who enjoy a unique brand of luxury. Handcrafted in her native land, Nancy specializes in working with the superior exotic crocodile and snake skins in unexpected colors like this mint green Cayman hobo. This bag pops, yet the braided strap and deep gathered pleats are the classic details which keep it from appearing gauche. Especially made for those days you find yourself wearing all black. ($2,750)