Before you hunt down the crop top culprit, read on about how this unsettling trend may bring out the NEW you!  The great thing about this trend is that there are several ways to wear these midriff showers, and different types and variations to give a try.  If you are very confident with your body and don’t mind getting some extra attention, then I would go with the bandeau type.  Yes, people are actually purchasing and wearing swimsuit-style bandeau tops for a day of shopping and brunch.  Most of us, unless we are workout buffs or were on the last season of ANTM, cannot pull this off without constantly looking down, worried about what is happening below head-level.  For us working women, a simple midriff bearing, corset-crop may be the perfect option for us.  This allows us to show just enough skin without feeling like we work in the Red Light District, and in addition, lends us the sexy appeal only crop tops can offer.  If hitting the work scene, slide on a blazer and a long pleated skirt or dress pants, to have an outfit that makes you feel like you’re on the runway, and look like it, too.

Most people think there’s nothing they can do about this “water crisis.” What doesn’t affect us seems almost nonexistent. However, water is not an unlimited resource and, therefore, should not be treated like one. There are numerous simple ways to help someone halfway around the world get clean water.

One of the easiest and most fun steps to conserving water, saving money, reducing your carbon footprint, and supporting the development of sustainable water infrastructure projects for those in need is by using a Hydros filtered water bottle. These bottles made of recycled materials, have a built-in filtration system that purifies water quickly in a sleek, lightweight, portable, BPA-free, dishwasher safe container that comes in cool colors like orange, pink, yellow, and blue. These bottles go for about $20 to $30 each and a dollar from each purchase goes to fund clean water projects in another part of the world. With Mother’s Day just days away, this is a gift that keeps on giving.

Another cool way to always have filtered water on hand is with Bobble bottles. If the Hydros bottle were the valedictorian of a high school class, the Bobble would be president of the art club. These bottles, also made of BPA and phthalate-free plastic, have an interesting wobbly effect due to their curvy shape, which kids of all ages love. The filters on these bottles come in a variety of pop colors that will go perfectly with the colored jeans you’re wearing this spring.

Filtered water bottles are just the first step you can take toward water conservation and help lower the number of plastic bottles that make it to landfills everyday, which is 60 million presently. It will also save you tons of money, too.  Seriously, when you add up the total amount spent on plastic water bottles that get trashed after one use, you’ve thrown away thousands and even millions of dollars in some cases. Over half of our body weight is made up of water. We need it to live. Feel good about the water you drink with a filtered water bottle. It will be one of the coolest things you do this summer.

With summer around the corner, your vacation plans confirmed, and all of the tourist attractions mapped out, the only thing missing is that underwater camera you have been meaning to buy.  This summer, instead of shelling out the cash for an expensive and bulky underwater camera, opt for the more modern approach: an underwater iPhone case.

Since nearly 130 million iPhones have been sold to date, it’s not a surprise that a surplus of different cases have surfaced within recent years, making the iPhone more durable and sought after than ever.  Many offer the promise to protect, while others are meant to simply bring on the bling.  Nonetheless, if you are looking for a protective shell that literally protects from all damage (sun, water, shock, etc…), then there are plenty on the market to choose from.  The most popular brands on the market right now that allow you to dive and snorkel, iPhone in hand, are LifeProof and OtterBox.  You can even watch videos of actual customers performing dives and snorkeling all while capturing the footage on their iPhone.

If you rather listen to your favorite band while doing the backstroke, then there are underwater headphones as well that will keep your ears in tune and your voice afloat.  And if you don’t like holding your phone, buy a clip, attach to your clothing or swimsuit, and problem solved!  The different variations of what helpful and handy accessories you can purchase are limitless and the inventory continues to grow.

For those of us who are more convenience over quality, opt for the underwater case.  The case is convenient and can also be easily removed if you want your phone to go bare after your fun-filled day.  Not only does the iPhone have great capability, the quality of pictures isn’t too bad either; it’s also much easier to upload the pictures to FaceBook and Instagram.  So go ahead, get your underwater mermaid on with peace of mind.  After all, Instagram is slacking in the underwater pictures department.

Get some bang for your buck!  For under one-hundred dollars, you can snag one of these top-of-the-line protectors.  Most of the more reliable brands also offer a complete, one year warranty, so make sure you do your research.  Usually the warranties are completely free and all you need to do is register your product.  Hey, money can’t buy everything but it sure can buy a phone that stays intact and in good condition.  So with the smoldering heat, stay cool in the water with a protective iPhone case that is dunk-proof.

We have all been perpetrators and culprits of talking about a friend’s party and how it went so wrong; what he or she didn’t do right and what we could do better. Now it’s time to prove it.  Follow these guidelines to keep your guests happy and the food finger-lickin’ good.

Get It Together

The single most important thing about hosting a party or event of any sort, is planning.  First things first, know your limit.  If you are hosting the party in your home, be sure to put a limit on the number of people invited. You don’t want a line forming outside of your house and you don’t want all of the food and drinks gone by the time you sit down. The more the merrier is only true until you’ve got six people waiting for one bathroom and guests eating off their hands because you ran out of plates!

You’re Evited

Sending out invites is very important if you want your party to turn out amazing.  It goes hand in hand with planning because this is the number you base your menu from.  Going green has never been easier with digital invitations.  Design away and make people feel like you took some time with the invite.  You can also create an event on FaceBook and have people RSVP that way.  Remember to always reconfirm attendance a couple of days before the event, since last-minute changes usually occur.

BBQ Never Tasted So Good

Once you have an estimate on the number of guests attending, you can start planning your menu.  This is the best part because you should always go for the foods you like and of course have a variety for those vegan and picky-food eaters.  It’s easier to plan the menu in the order in which people typically eat, which assures you will not miss anything.  In addition, always buy more than you need and if you are really nice, you can even give your guests takeaway boxes!  Here are some ideas for what menu items to go for.

• Drinks – alcohol-friendly? Make sure to have beer, sangria, wine and a specialty cocktail (maybe frozen margaritas?!).  If it’s a party sparing the alcohol, go for the Arnold Palmer (½ iced tea, ½ lemonade), gingerale, and plenty of water.
• Appetizers and finger foods – Everyone loves chips and salsa, fruit salad, veggies and hummus, and the traditional bbq smokies.  Serve a few of your favorites on platters and they will go fast!
• Main Course – The beauty of a BBQ is nothing is ever on time, and no one seems to care.  So go all in, skip the pre-formed hamburger patties, and make your own!  There are great recipes for marinade and if you shape them the night before, you will skip all that prep time.  Include hotdogs, boneless chicken breasts, kebabs and baby back ribs.  Also have some veggie burgers just in case someone prefers those.
• Dessert – This should be the easiest part.  Just grab some Italian ice or gelato and bring it out after everyone has finished eating.  Try pairing with fresh berries and home-made whip cream.  You can also go the traditional route and bake a home-made apple pie and cherry cheesecake as well.

Decorate It

Put everyone into great sprits as soon as they walk into your house.  Have streamers, banners and even balloons to signify the holiday and the arrival of summer, while also cherishing and remembering those people we have lost.  To stay mosquito-proof, spray the area the morning of the party and light tiki torches and citronella candles during the party to keep your guests bug-free.

BBQs are meant to be gatherings where friends and family can get together and have a great time.  Have activities for your guests to embark on such as Frisbee, croquet, card games and dominoes.  Crank up the music (but not too loud that guests cannot hear one another), with a portable ipod player so guests can play their favorite songs and dance ‘til they drop.

Tips

• Don’t forget the condiments!  You will be surprised how quick a bottle of ketchup goes.
• Ditch the straws.  No one uses straws at their own house, and neither should you.  Save the earth!
• Prepare dishes ahead of time that don’t require a grill!  The night before is perfect for making potato salad and baked beans.
• Don’t drink and drive!  If your BBQ is an alcohol environment, make sure there are sober drivers or have guests take cabs home.  Better safe than sorry.
• It’s all good if you have the three “F’s”:  Friends.  Family.  Food.

Did you know dark chocolate has special moisturizing properties and white sugar makes a great natural exfoliator? You probably already have most of these ingredients at home, although they can also be found at any grocery store for just a few bucks.

Until recently, chocolate was nothing more to me than a sweet indulgence. However, when I learned that it could actually be good for you, I started incorporating chocolate into my daily diet in many different ways. Pure cocoa has powerful antioxidant properties and loads of important minerals, which is why it can work wonders for skin rejuvenation and protection. My favorite hydrating chocolate facial mask smells good enough to eat, but I’ve learned to resist and use it as a calorie-free treat for my skin.

This simple treatment involves mixing two melted chocolate bars, milk, sugar, and a dash of sea salt. My favorite for this is World Market’s 72% Dark Chocolate, which comes in a set of two bars. It is less than $5 and due to the high concentration of cocoa, has all those wonderful cell-protecting and moisturizing benefits. Make sure to let the chocolate mixture cool before applying to your face. Leave it on for about ten to fifteen minutes or until it begins to harden. I like to sit back and let gravity do the work as it dries. Wash the mask off gently with lukewarm water or a moist towel and finish with a mild face lotion, like Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Moisturizer.

Another one of my favorites is probably the easiest facial mask you’ll ever come across. It’s perfect for a quick pick-me-up before a night out or if you just want to brighten up your skin for a few minutes in the morning. All you need to do is mix one tablespoon of raw organic honey and one of cane sugar. Apply a thin layer to the entire face in a circular motion and leave on for a few minutes. Honey is nature’s antiseptic and is ideal for healing and restoring skin cells, while sugar opens the pores and stimulates blood circulation. Your skin will be clear and radiant.

Who says you have to spend hundreds of dollars at a top spa to get glowing skin? Head to your kitchen and whip up your own facial masks. You’ll know exactly what’s going on your skin and feel good about all the natural vitamins and minerals your face will eat up.

Every year mothers are asked what they want for Mother’s Day, and every year a majority of them answer with, I don’t want anything. If you believe that, then you are one of those people who also believe that women don’t like to be sent flowers, which is a total lie.  Not only will she resent you for the entire year, think that you love your dad more than her, but she will expect something amazing the following Mother’s Day for your prior year’s ungiftedness, so please, don’t walk down that dark alley.

Here are the top 5 Mother’s Day gifts that will surely keep you on her good side.  Don’t share these with your siblings; you wouldn’t want them to steal your light!

1. Spa, spa and more spa! – Anything that has the word “spa” in it is a sure winner.  Moms love to be pampered, and what better way than to check her in to an all-day or weekend spa retreat.  The services range from manicures and pedicures, to hot stone massages, to a deep cleansing facial.  If it’s a top-notch spa (which it should be), mama will be sipping on Moet and thinking about how great of a gift you gave her.  This is the type of gift that if you ever need her help and she is reluctant, you say, “Remember that one Mother’s Day when…?”
2. Flowers are pretty, so is your Mom! – Every woman loves flowers, mothers included.  So this Mother’s Day, spring for a beautiful bouquet that accents her beauty.  Please don’t go to the online flower dealers and opt for the “super saver bouquet,” there is a reason these are on sale.  Buy a more elegant, expensive bouquet so your mother doesn’t investigate exactly where and how much the flowers were, which will leave you looking like the cheap son/daughter.
3. Yum…Sweets! – You can never go wrong with ordering mom’s favorite sweet dessert.  Whether it’s miniature cupcakes, specialty chocolates, or those fruit and chocolate covered edible arrangements, one thing is for sure: her sweet tooth will be satisfied.
4. Light it up! – One candle, two candle, three candle, more!  The more sweet smelling candles you get for mom, the better.  Smell goods are mom’s favorites, but usually, she doesn’t have the time to go shopping for them and when she does, she opts for extra toilet paper and detergent.  Surprise her this Mother’s Day with a gift that will light up and last for hours!  If you’re stuck on what color and smell, just go with what you like and she is sure to love it!  No one has ever heard of a candle that didn’t get used.
5. Ding, ding! At your service! – The house always needs cleaning and your mom could always use the help.  For one day, week, month or year, surprise mom with a gift she’ll be sure to use…a cleaning service!  From laundry, to dishes, to vacuuming, a cleaning service is the perfect gift to get mom away from the household chores, and time for her to have some fun!

Tips

Don’t wait until the last minute to get mom a gift.  Everyone in this world is busy, so if you find time to log on Facebook fifteen times a day and show up to your virtual, fantasy baseball meeting, then you have time to get a thoughtful, timely gift for the person who brought you in to this world. Trust me, moms can tell if the gift is rushed.

Strapped for cash but want mom to know you are still honoring her on her special day?  Make a date night for you and her.  Invite her over to your place or drive over to hers, make her favorite dish, put on a movie, and actually talk to her about what is going on in your life.  Nothing says love to a mother like some good ‘ole QT and gossip.

There you have it, one perfect list of gift ideas for one perfect Mom!  You will be sure to have mom all smiles (and maybe some tears) this year, and that’s what it’s all about.

Some of the more conventional summer cocktails, like Margaritas and Piña Coladas, are more flash than class and are loaded with unnecessary calories and artificial ingredients. If you’re not a fan of drinks the color of radioactive fluid, like me, try your hand at a few naturally flavored cocktails infused with fresh fruits and fragrant herbs.

The traditional way to make a summer cocktail is with a fruit base. For an easy, light, and refreshing drink that will impress your friends and family try a blend of frozen cherries, mint leaves, a bit of sugar, a shot of dark rum, black cherry flavored seltzer, and a dash of lime juice. This is not only refreshing, but also has the antioxidant power of cherries and is lower in sugar than most bright red cocktails.

Fresh grapes also make delicious cocktails and produce a beautiful ruby colored drink. Simply add plain seltzer, good quality vodka, honey, and lemon juice to pureed grapes. Seltzer has zero calories and honey is a natural sugar.

An even cooler option is a cucumber cocktail made with rosemary, gin, lemon juice, and agave syrup. Agave is naturally sweeter than table sugar, so you’ll only need a drop. It also has a lower glycemic index than regular simple syrup, which makes it a much healthier alternative to other sweeteners. This cocktail is like an adult version of homemade lemonade.

However, if you must have your piña colada fix this summer, try blending “lite” coconut milk with fresh pineapple, pineapple juice, and a shot of light rum. For extra creaminess and a bit of twist, add a few bananas to the mix. It will be so delicious, you’ll never ask for the thick yellow sludge of a cheap happy hour piña colada again.

So gather up some of your favorite summer fruits, be creative, and remember to drink responsibly!

Powder vs. Liquid, Gel, Cream

Choosing what type of bronzer to use can be a chore of its own.  With so many options out there, your bound to get lost in the maze.  But if you stick to what your skin needs and looks best in, you will achieve that perfect look.  If you have oily skin then stick only to powder.  The exception to this rule is if you find a great primer, then you can try the gel bronzer to achieve that dewy look.  If you have more dry or combination skin, then score with a great liquid, gel or cream, which not only gives you that glow but adds moisture at the same time!

How to find the Right Match

Never go more than two shades darker than your natural color!  The exception to that rule is if it’s Halloween, then you can do what you want.  From there, follow this advice to choose the color that is right for you.

If you have fair to pale skin, choose a rose or peach infused bronzer, even try blush if you are very pale, and pull off that damsel in distress look.  If you have medium tan to olive skin, then go with gold and shimmer bronzer for the earthy look.  And for dark skin, stick with the darker, mocha infused bronzers for extra glow.

Bronzer ain’t bronzer if you don’t apply it right! Make sure that you use a blending brush; short, light-weight and fluffy. If the brush bristles are too stiff, the bronzer will go on streaky, and no one wants to look like a bronze zebra.

Once you have decided on your bronzer type, and your brush, it’s time to apply! This is when the power of three becomes so important! You want to bronze your forehead, cheekbones, jawline, and neck.  Your starting point should be right below your hairline on your forehead, swooping down through your cheekbones (hit your nose of course), and curve again down to your jawline and sides of neck, drawing a three on each side of your face.  This will leave you with a sun-kissed look, minus the UVA and UVB rays that demolish your skin’s health.

Tips

If you are going for a dewy finish rather than the satin-finished look, try a bronzer gel over a face primer.  Facial primers go great after your morning moisturizing regimen and work by blocking oil and minimizing pore appearance.  Just apply about a quarter size all over your face and Hello Flawless!

If you must wear foundation, please don’t put on a liquid, gel or cream bronzer.  It will make your face look very shiny (not in a good way) and primer cannot save that mess.  If you are a liquid foundation-goer, stick to a powder bronzer.  If you wear a powder foundation, then slip on the gel bronzer before applying the foundation so it sets and isn’t too bold.

If you are new to the bronze game, start with a powder and leave the gel and liquid to the rookies.  It is difficult at first to master, so I recommend practicing before you perform a sales pitch to potential clients.

Less is better. More people notice you (in a good way), the more natural you appear.  Hey, no one said you have to go Blake Lively on everyone, but if the question ever pops in to your head, am I wearing too much makeup? Then the answer is, YES.

Last but not least: if you have practiced and still don’t have the look that you want, get help. MAC stores are always around, and who doesn’t use MAC? Just walk in, ask them to show you how to apply bronzer – the normal way (no one wants to have as much makeup on as a MAC employee) and take mental notes. Good Luck!

After many hair color changes, times that I thought I could pull off that Beyonce blonde hair, I was a hot mess with a pile of straw on my head. I was on the mission to find the perfect deep conditioner, to wake my hair up and give it life.  After taking early morning and late night trips to the nearest beauty supply store, my search would always end up in disaster; either empty-handed or settling with a hair mask packed with unhealthy, synthetic ingredients, sure to do more harm than good.

Hours of searching left me with the most popular haircare regimens: at-home hair treatments from the most natural ingredients.  With so many treatments to choose from, I had my hand in picking the few I thought would work best for my unruly mane.

My favorite solution to fight overall dry and brittle hair:  Coconut oil!  This oil fortifies and moisturizes each strand to give your hair a natural glow and contains key components those salon brands lack.  One of them, Lauric acid, is present in coconut oil and is used for the prevention of hair loss.  It works against the roots and scalp and acts an antimicrobial agent.  Coconut oil also has vitamin E, which we all know is the go to vitamin for hair, skin and nails.  Got dandruff but too embarrassed to walk up to the counter with a Head & Shoulders bottle?  Coconut oil to the rescue!  It acts as an anti-dandruff agent as well, because of the various fatty acids it contains.

Start by going to a nearby organic market, such as Whole Foods, and purchasing a jar of extra virgin coconut oil.  There are many brands out there, but the most popular and sought after are Nutiva, Spectrum, Nature’s Way and Tropical Traditions.  Grab some honey as well, as it helps with attracting and locking in moisture and is a natural hair lightener.

Coconut Oil Hair Mask

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Shower cap
• Hair clips
• Hair brush (optional)
• Gloves (optional)

Directions

Mix the coconut oil and honey is small bowl.  Part hair into four parts for easy application.  If you choose, use gloves, grab your brush (or use fingers), and start applying on hair.  Once your hair is completely covered, place shower cap on.  The longer you leave on, the better.  I recommend leaving it on overnight.  In the morning, lather up with your favorite shampoo and start styling your beautiful tresses.

Tips

• Conditioner works great when applied to damp hair.
• Try air-drying instead of a scorching hot hair dryer.
• You may need to try several hair treatments before you finding a moisturizing routine that works for you.

Ikea has built a name for itself through years of sky-high sales of compact furniture and stylish home goods. It has reached a milestone recently, however, with its announcement of the Ikea TV, a seamless combination of technology and design. The Ikea TV, known as Uppleva, merges LED television, Blu-Ray, Internet, and bass speakers into one neat unit. Aesthetically, it is an impeccable looking piece of furniture, but behind the white, gray, or blue drawers are all the electronics you need for a complete entertainment station. Rather than having all the cables for several different electronics snaking their way around the floor and back of furniture to reach a power outlet, the Ikea TV has them cleverly tucked away into the stand, invisible to the outside world. It also has one remote to control all audio and visual devices. You’ll no longer have to dig through the couch cushions before sitting down to find the TV, cable box, and audio receiver remote  just to watch your favorite show again.

With its sleek appearance and multiple functions, Ikea is competing with the innovation of Apple in its integration of visual appeal and technological advancement. However, Ikea is not claiming that Uppleva will be the best quality television, but rather the best overall experience. The software for the Ikea TV is manufactured by TCL, the Chinese company that operates as RCA in the US domestic market. Some say TCL is substandard compared to Samsung or LG, for example. Yet, at the reasonable prices for decent quality Ikea is known for, this may not deter consumers who are looking for a smart TV and cabinet in the near future. Unfortunately, the Uppleva TV is not expected to release in the U.S. before 2013.

For many people, the best aspect of Uppleva may be that, like any other piece of furniture from Ikea, it comes in one box for easy transport and assembly. Just remember to have your Allan wrench handy.

Today’s variation of boat shoes spans from traditional to unconventional. The original Sperry Top-Sider, brown leather with tan laces, is still a top choice for style and comfort. However, the Sperry brand has intelligently taken notice of the increasing popularity of boat shoes among people under the age of 50 and designed boat shoes that meet the demands of their younger, more hip market. Sperry collaborated with brands like Milly and Band of Outsiders and now offers a vast selection of styles and colors of boat shoes, including woven metallic leather, neon, madras, seersucker, multicolored sun bleached canvas, and even leopard print. This is not your grandfather’s boat shoe (unless your grandpa is extremely cool).

For a more exclusive shoe, Jimmy Choo, the iconic shoe designer who is known for sky high heels and statement-making patterns, recently released his own version of the boat shoe. While the colors are classic, this one has several one-of-a-kind features, combining interesting textures and luxurious materials. Most of the shoe is covered in deep blue denim, but the top and back are wrapped in caramel-colored crocodile leather. The orange laces and low-top athletic soles give it a modern, sneaker-like feel – the kind of loafer Kanye West might wear. Overall, it is a fantastic looking shoe.

Other brands like Buttero and Visvim Shoes create modern, high quality boat shoes, as well, proving that this style is timeless, ageless, and limitless. Boat shoes are like the United Nations of footwear, serving a diverse range of sizes, shapes, and personal tastes. They’re perfect with skinny jeans for ladies and laid-back chinos for guys.

Whether you live on a boat or miles from a body of water, boat shoes are a must-have this summer and choosing your favorite one from the many options available will be as fun as wearing them.

The best way to add a bit of effortless glamour this season is with an oversized floppy hat. The super wide brim will protect you from rays at every angle, but more importantly is feminine and beautiful, allowing only a portion of the face to be seen. Floppy hats are a great way to top a maxi dress and are even better for shielding hair and skin from too much sun. For a bolder look, try floppy hats in bright colors like fuchsia and neon orange or a color-blocking pattern. However, keep in mind that the classics never go out of style.

Another favorite this season are cloche hats. The latest models of this retro style are so sleek and original. If hats could tell a story, this one would be of an independent, progressive woman who isn’t afraid to make a statement. Try one with an asymmetrical brim for a modern, yet adorable look.

Our favorite of all for 2012 hat trends is the panama hat, which first appeared as an American style after President Theodore Roosevelt wore one on a trip to the Panama canal. Paul Newman also favored these hats and, more recently, Johnny Depp has been seen wearing one on numerous occasions, on and off the red carpet. The most authentic of these are handmade in Ecuador, but you don’t have to go all the way to South America to snag one. Goorin Brothers makes a genuine straw panama hat for both guys and girls that will add a smart dose of sophisticated swank to a warm weather ensemble.

Fortunately, these days you don’t need to be attending a British wedding or the Kentucky Derby to be fashionable in a hat. This season’s hat trends are so fresh and chic, all other accessories become nearly insignificant.

Skinny and brightly colored jeans are not the latest fashion craze, by any means. Yet, coral jeans have recently been in the limelight, due greatly in part to a certain British princess who was not only seen wearing them, but also running and playing sports in them, as well. Kate Middleton greeted the UK’s Olympic team in London just a few weeks ago in a pair of coral jeans.First, she dressed them up with navy heels and soon changed into a hoodie and sneakers, keeping the coral bottoms consistent all the while. She may have been showing off her field hockey skills with the athletes at Olympic Park, but it was the jeans that really scored big that day.

Just hours after photographs hit the press, sales of colored jeans rose nearly 90% at British clothing shop, Asda, proving that this trend is here to stay. Just to be clear, the Dutchess’ jeans are made by J Brand.

Using celebrities and style icons for inspiration is a good idea, but to truly wear these jeans well it is important to make them your own, choosing a fit that works best for your body type and personal style. A slim fit elongates even petite legs and hugs all the right places below the waist. Whether you’re going for cocktails at a rooftop lounge or a Sunday picnic at the beach this summer, make your outfit effortless and chic with a pair of coral jeans.

The teams selected (University of Arizona, Baylor University, Men’s and Women’s team from University of Connecticut, Duke University, University of Florida, University of Kentucky, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Syracuse University) sported the new “Platinum” uniforms earlier this year and were chosen for having won National Championships wearing Nike apparel and footwear in the past. Although critics have noted that the color of the uniforms is closer to gray than platinum, the new gear has several contemporary additions and innovative detailing.

For these uniforms, Nike combined performance with a little bit of swagger. The letters and numbers on the jerseys are shiny and reflective, standing out more than traditional uniforms. Across the front, certain teams have shortened names, such as ZONA (for Arizona) and CUSE (for Syracuse). The school’s logo on the back of the jersey is larger, spanning from shoulder to shoulder. Another unconventional choice is that the player names are under the uniform number. Above the player’s number are stars, representing the years of past championships won. Team logos are sharper and accent colors are brighter, as well.

Besides the design, there is another especially unique aspect to these uniforms. They are made almost entirely of sustainable, recycled materials. The shorts are made entirely of recycled polyester and the jerseys are constructed of a minimum of 96% of it. Both top and bottom are made lighter weight than the previous Hyper Elite uniforms, allowing for greater mobility.

In continuation with Nike’s commitment to sustainability, they have estimated that their use of recycled polyester in 2011 equates to 440 million PET plastic bottles, which is enough to cover 12,000 basketball courts.

The Nike Hyper Elite Platinum uniform is superior to traditional basketball shorts and jerseys and has truly made these nine college teams stand out. However, for some of the more subtle differences, you may need to take a closer look.

Many NFL players, industry insiders, and fans greatly anticipated the release of the new Nike-designed gear, especially after new college football uniforms like those in Oregon and Denver hit the fields. There was an expectation of total aesthetic reinvention on the national level among many fans. However, ultimately functionality won over aesthetics. The decision to change uniforms comes down to team owners who are notoriously conservative, especially with respect to their property. Although Nike is in charge of designing uniforms, they must construct them around strict NFL criteria.

On the surface, the Nike “Elite 51” uniforms, named in honor of Nike co-founder Bill Bowerman, appear practically identical to the previous models by Reebok. However, while colors and emblems have largely remained true to tradition, the revolutionary Nike updates are clearly more sophisticated in both construction and technology from head to toe.

For starters, a Pro Combat base layer that is now drier, lighter, and cooler protects players and comes in three forms for varying weather conditions. The “hypercool” option deflects sweat away from skin allowing for faster evaporation in warm weather. For players in lower temperatures the “hyperwarm” option not only draws sweat away, but also entraps heat. Lastly, the “hyperstrong” alternative with flexible padding built into “critical hit zones” provides optimal protection, while allowing for greater mobility through the use of ultra-lightweight fibers.

The new jerseys are constructed of a lighter and drier fabric called “Flywire,” a combination of mesh and stretch materials that provide ventilation and a “lockdown fit” simultaneously. The same groundbreaking tensioning system technology is used in Nike shoes. From a players’ perspective, the new fit is especially important as it keeps them from being grabbed by the jersey and slowed down. This hydrophobic material retains its original shape throughout games and gives players greater freedom of movement.

The uniform designers at the Nike Sports Research Lab in Beaverton, Oregon combined different types of mesh ventilation in the exact zones on the uniform where athletes need extra breathability. Additional padding is also woven into other areas that require more impact protection, such as the pant, which eliminates the need for extra layers and bulk. These keen designers also researched points on the uniform with a higher probability of tearing and used a more taut, four-way stretch material in these zones.

The response from the players was resoundingly positive. Ndamukong Suh of the Detriot Lions stated, “The range of motion is the biggest thing for me. I can have my arms go to the side and then be able to reach. The custom, form fit is adjustable and that is great, especially for a guy like me.”

Nike left no detail overlooked from helmet to sock, which have an added arch, heel support, and strategic cushioning in place. Gloves also have a more modern and stylish feel by incorporating airline-caliber aluminum and better grip. For extra cool, the gloves form the team logo when put next to one another.

This is not the end for the Nike uniform makeover. Nike’s global creative director, Todd Van Horne has said that as more teams realize the benefits of technical changes, they will be more open to aesthetic transformations, as well. It will be interesting to see how Nike further evolves the NFL team looks and, to a greater extent, sports gear in the future.

The photograph shown in this post is original from Nike’s Facebook page.

There are three main types of wheelbarrows, which are categorized primarily by their capacity. Light duty, or home use, wheelbarrows are used for things like light gardening activities and transporting small materials. These are the most common type of wheelbarrow produced. Medium duty wheelbarrows are for moderately heavy jobs, such as those used by professional gardeners in a nursery. However, heavy duty wheelbarrows are designed for large construction sites and generally have a larger pan, which is mainly for industrial use. These are also known as a contractor’s wheelbarrow.

Besides their size and capacity, wheelbarrows also differ in construction. Some have two wheels, while others are made of polypropylene, instead of steel. In modern times, there have even been electric powered wheelbarrows, like the Honda HPE60 or the Troy-Bilt Motorized Wheelbarrow.

The tires of a wheelbarrow are generally pneumatic, semi-pneumatic, or non-pneumatic. This simply defines the level of air in the tires. Pneumatic is like a bicycle wheel that requires air to be pumped in. Non-pneumatic tires are made of solid rubber and will not deflate due to the absence of air tubes; therefore they do not require manual inflation.

In order to enhance the longevity of your wheelbarrow, like any tool, some maintenance and attention must be paid to it fairly regularly. If the wheelbarrow has a hollow frame, it is important to store it facing down so that water does not enter and rust the frame from within. Additionally, in order to protect the pan and frame, a light hosing down should suffice after each use to keep the wheelbarrow clean and free of chemicals and free radical substances that may induce rusting or damage the exterior of the wheelbarrow. Don’t forget the tires, which should be cleaned and oiled regularly, as well. Many high quality wheelbarrows have a painted or epoxy-enameled coating. If you have one that is already starting to rust, simply sand down the area until the metal is exposed and coat with a layer of spray paint.

It is no coincidence that wheelbarrows have been in use for thousands of years. They are extremely useful and simply make life easier. With a few easy steps, your wheelbarrow will serve you well for many years, too!

Audio mixers are determined by the number of channels, so a 24-channel mixer will produce a wider variety of sounds than a 12-channel mixer. The channels are usually arranged in rows on the mixer. At the top of the mixer will be a “gain” or “trim” knob, which controls the input volume and quality of the sounds. The equalization tool on the mixer eliminates unwanted noise, such as feedback, which produces a better, clearer sound. The tone knob enhances high or low frequencies. In addition to others, almost all sound mixers will have auxiliary outputs that bring out one sound while toning down another. This is especially useful if you have a vocalist on one microphone and a guitarist on another and you want to hear more of one or the other, for instance.

Sound mixers have a wide variety of uses. Professional DJs use them for live performances and film editors use them during post-production work. If you are not ready to take the plunge and spring for a professional mixer quite yet, Pyle Audio makes a mixer that connects to iPods, called the I Mixer. This fun and easy to use device mixes sound effects with special programs using DJ Scratch simulation. The dock on the mixer works with all iPod models and charges it while it is connected, as well. You can be a DJ with virtually no prior experience and spin for your friends with this nearly handheld device.

If you’re looking to get into the music or film industry, become a professional DJ, or just learn to scratch on your own, a professional sound mixer is the place to start. They range in quality and price, but remember it is always best to start small and work your way up and have fun!

A pressure washer is essentially a hose connected to a water pump that is driven by a gas or electric motor. It shoots out water from a gun at high speed and pressure making cleaning easier and more efficient. Pressure washers are ideal for cleaning siding, brick patios, or a wood deck. Usually a chemical solution is added to the pressure washer to help dissolve dirt and thoroughly clean the surface. However, it is important to use the right chemical combination to prevent permanent damage to the surface. Also, since there are different pressure levels, nozzles for spray patterns, and temperature settings for the washer, it is also crucial to know which ones are best for your cleaning purposes.

If you are cleaning the vinyl siding of a house, set the washer on low pressure and use a mild detergent. Hold the washer at a 45 degree angle and move the hose in a steady, sweeping motion starting at the top and working your way down. Usually less is more with a pressure washer, so it is always good to start on the lowest setting. Be careful around windows and make sure to cover up any electrical outlets, furniture, plants and anything else besides the vinyl siding that should not be washed prior to pressure washing.

Brick patio surfaces can get very dirty over the colder months. Now is the best time do pressure wash it and get it ready for warmer weather and spending some time outdoors. The nozzle with the largest spray pattern is perfect for overall cleaning of a patio. A more powerful setting can be used for cleaning in between the brick. Wood decks can be more delicate, but the same sweeping motion of a washer on low pressure can work well. Depending on the type of wood that is being cleaned, detergent may not even be necessary.

Now is a great time to start some maintenance on the exterior of your house. After reading the manual carefully and knowing the type of surface you want to clean, pressure washing should be a relatively easy and painless task. So, get out there and say goodbye to old man winter!

There are several different types of nail guns that serve various purposes. A framing nail gun is best used for large construction jobs, like framing houses, because it is the largest and most powerful nail gun. The nails used for this type of gun are also larger and heavier, ideal for a more solid structure at a greater scale. Another job where a nail gun comes in handy is for nailing shingles to a roof and there are specific nail guns just for this task. For example, the Paslode Cordless Roofing Nailer is known for its speed and precision, however it is for the more seasoned handyman with extensive construction experience.

Hiring someone to install new floors can be very expensive, but it is a rather uncomplicated job to do yourself, provided the right tools. One of the most highly recommended tools for installing floors is the Freeman Pneumatic Flooring Nailer, which is ideal for installing different types of flooring. It is lightweight, easy to use, and will not mar your floor.

Before using any kind of nail gun, it is important to learn to handle one with care. It can be too easy for an uninformed user to cause self-injury or even injure someone else. Also, knowing which nails to load the gun with is imperative.

A nail gun can be a very useful tool that saves both time and money.  Just be sure you are using the right type for your needs and take any necessary precautions before starting the job. For more information check out Pronto’s nail gun buying guide.

So, where do you begin? The first step is checking your soil. If you have unhealthy soil, you will have an unhealthy lawn. You can test it yourself using a soil testing kit from a home and garden store or contact your state cooperative extension office who may check it for you at little or no cost. If these options do not work for you, many landscaping and private companies provide such testing services. This is an important first step that indicates what is in your soil and what it might need.

The next thing you should do is to figure out what type of grass seed you need for your dream lawn. This is highly dependent on the climate of your geographic area and also the type of grass you prefer. If you already like the grass from previous years, simply take care of it with the proper fertilizing and watering treatments. However, if you are constantly competing with the Jones’, why not start up a chat with your neighbor and get an idea of what he or she is using. This will give you a better idea of what will work best for your lawn (and possibly get you an invite to their summer barbeque). Pay special attention to shady areas of your lawn and be sure to choose a seed that will work without much sunlight for those spots.

After choosing some nourishing grass seed, it’s time to roll up your sleeves, get in the dirt, and start planting some new grass. You’ll need to start by loosening up the soil with a rake and then spreading the grass seed evenly over the entire area. You can do this by hand or with a spreader for larger areas. Then, you must cover it with a light layer of treated soil. Next, water this area, but be careful not to overdo it. Too much water will drown the seeds and too little will keep it from growing. If you have bald patches of grass that need to catch up with the rest of the lawn, continue to keep this area moist until it is the same length as the surrounding healthy grass.

Lastly, in order to maintain your beautiful lawn, you must fertilize it properly. Fertilization is what keeps lawns lush. Fertilizer is best distributed throughout your lawn using a broadcast or drop spreader. Broadcast spreaders cover more space, while drop spreaders can provide greater accuracy. It is best to consult with someone at your local garden shop or home goods store for this.

Once your lawn is given the proper treatments and a little TLC with seeds and fertilizer, you can sit back, relax, and watch your old lawn blossom into a beautiful blanket of green, but don’t wait before it gets to warm! Early spring is one of the best times of year to treat your lawn. It’s a great, rewarding way to spend some time outdoors this season!

Shop for Lawn Mowers at Pronto

• Briggs and Stratton Lawn Mowers
• Poulan Pro Riding Lawn Mowers
• Honda Lawn Mowers

Ecote is a brand owned by Urban Outfitters. Before Urban Outfitters was the conglomerate it is today, it started out in a humble part of Philadelphia as one store known as Free People back in the 1970s. As more consumers caught on to the idea of having more freedom in their clothing choices, the brand grew rapidly. When demand increased dramatically, the proprietors of Urban Outfitters decided to create a wholesale line, which came in the form of brands that have become very well-respected today, such as Bulldog, Anthropologie, Cooperative, and Ecote.

As a brand, Ecote is for the anti-fashionista. It is casual and gives off a carefree vibe. Ecote is for the adventurous girl, who doesn’t care what other people think, especially in regard to what she’s wearing. This image is perfectly represented in the backpacks, above all other apparel under the Ecote label. Most of the backpacks are made of sturdy canvas and have hardware details and leather trims. They defy norms of conventional backpacks with prints inspired by indigenous tribes and earthy colors and textures. Ecote also offers gorgeous leather backpacks, for higher end customers. The tooled leather backpack made entirely of soft, camel colored leather is a personal favorite.

Ecote backpacks are perfect for strolling through a big city or to take for a day of surfing at the beach and everything in between. They are cool and original and make messenger bags look so last season.

When perusing through dresses for girls, the levels of quality and style range greatly.  However there are a few unique brands that meet high standards for both criteria. One of our favorites is American Princess, which is a company that makes dresses for every girl who wishes she could live in castle. They come in a variety of colors and designs, but stay true to the classic princess silhouette.

With spring just around the corner this is the perfect time to look for a new dress for the special little girl in your life. They also make gorgeous Easter and First Communion dresses. Wedding season is also just around the corner and an American Princess flower girl dress will look stunning coming down the aisle.

One of the most fun parts of dressing a little girl is deciding from the infinite options of adorable pint-sized dresses. From the American Princess collection, there is really no going wrong.

For those just learning to ride, some of the best training bikes on the market right now are manufactured by Huffy Bicycles. Huffy knows how to please both parents and kids by making high quality bikes in a variety of fun themes. One of the most popular is the Disney Princess Girl’s bike, which is decorated with all the famous Disney princesses along the frame, streamers, and a handlebar bag in the shape of a princess’ carriage.

Another highly coveted bike is the red Huffy Cars 2 Kids Bike for boys.Like the princess bike, it has characters from the movie along the frame and handlebar bag that resembles a race kit. This holds cones and flags inside so he can pretend he’s on a real racetrack! The seat is adjustable and the training wheels are easily removed when the little rider becomes confident enough to balance the bike on his own.

However, the ultimate in cool is the Huffy Tactic Bike, which surpasses other kid’s bikes in looks with its sleek dark green frame and decorative plaque under the handlebars. The padded seat with a glossy finish provides extra comfort and wide training wheels ensure greater stability. This is one sharp looking ride!

Watching a child learn to ride their first bike is a time to cherish because before you know it, you’ll be buying them their first car.

To avoid future embarrassment, it is best to go with a tasteful and timeless dress. For girls this means conservative silhouettes, understated details, and age-appropriate cuts. Equally important, is to keep bows, frills, and ribbons to a moderate level. A dress like this can still be cute and fun without being tacky or overshadowing a sweet little girl. These dresses do not have to come with a high price, either. Bonnie Jean makes adorable dresses for girls that are high quality as well as affordable. They are feminine and classy.

For a truly festive look, the Bunny, Chick, or Easter Egg Tutu dress are perfect. The top is simple with little more than a cute bunny face, yellow chick, or two pastel colored eggs. The bodice is attached to a tutu with some minor satin details along the bottom edges. Of course, if you’re looking for a dress to wear again on another occasion, Bonnie Jean Easter dresses come in a variety of colors and designs. Another favorite is the two piece lime green and black floral print dress that comes with a matching cardigan. However, the favorite might just be the pink and white asymmetric one shoulder dress, which is as sweet as marshmallow peeps!

One benefit of a classy dress is that it can be passed down or reused again in the future. Some of these gorgeous dresses can even be saved as keepsakes. While your little girl will probably look lovely in just about anything, keep it classy this Easter. She’ll thank you for it later on!

A Disney Easter basket will keep any little guy or girl delighted and busy! Certain classics will never go out of style, so a basket of Mickey Mouse toys is always a safe bet. Boys will not be able to resist a Toy Story basket, which can include a Buzz Lightyear action figure or toy alien. The movie Cars is also very popular with the little guys and this basket can contain actual toy cars from all the characters in the movie. Little girls who spend their days singing tunes from Cinderella and dressing up like Belle from Beauty and the Beast, will adore a Disney princess or fairy basket. Additionally, more practical things like sippy cups, lunchboxes, and backpacks will be useful and make lunchtime for your special little one more fun.

Easter baskets can be fun as well as educational. More creative and thought-provoking basket stuffers can be things like coloring books, art supplies, or puzzles. Children who are interested in math and science will appreciate a basket of math learning cards or a chemistry kit. If you’re feeling extra generous, there are numerous learning laptops and education video games for kids. The possibilities are unlimited.

Unlike Christmas or birthdays, Easter is about token gifts and remembering all of the great, priceless things we have such as friends and family. The baskets are just a treat from the Easter Bunny to bring smiles and laughs.

There is also a market for canvas backpacks amid modern, but practical men and women. For guys, the canvas backpack is as chic and ultramodern as suede bucks and fitted chinos. They offer a casual, unpretentious feel without compromising quality or style (or a high price tag), like those from Levis or Cole Haan.  Companies such as Petunia Pickle cater to moms who are too cool for diaper bags. Their beautiful multi-purpose boxy bags, for example, provide women on the go high functionality through innovative design.

It’s almost hard to believe the bags are constructed of canvas as they are covered with hand-embroidered details, which are turned into lively patterns. They are easily converted from messenger bag to backpack; the ideal bag for anywhere from office to playground. Elitists are not excluded from the temptation of bags from this humble textile, either. Luxury fashion houses, like Diane Von Furstenberg, Ralph Lauren, and even Alexander McQueen, turn the once pedestrian backpack into swanky haute couture. With bold colors, unique prints, and intricate detailing, these backpacks are refined versions of their humble counterparts that those with deep pockets and discerning tastes can enjoy.

The canvas backpack has experienced a dramatic evolution in the past few decades. Once known as the “rucksack,” an inferior product that provided army troops a durable, hard shell for holding bare necessities, the canvas backpack has found a prominent place in the fashion world. Whether shopping on a budget or with an American Express black card, there is a canvas backpack for everyone.

Winners will be announce on ‘Cyber Monday’ the 28th of November!

What appears to be an old novel under your arm is actually a purse clutch. It’s an ingenious idea, especially for book lovers, and style lovers alike. Each clutch comes with a beautiful silk lining and a gold plated clasp. It’s elegant and quirky at the same time. Who says you need the library to appreciate good literature? Choose from the classic novels: Great Expectations, The Importance of Being Earnest, and the Great Gatsby. It’s a hefty price tag, but unless you posses some serious DIY skills, you’d be hard pressed to duplicate these kind of results. Now if the good people at Kate Spade would like to mail one my way, I promise an in-depth book report on each one.

Blue is one of those colors that always ends up in the must-have list for fall and winter. It makes such a strong statement and is flattering on all different shades of skin. They say purple is the color of royalty but blue makes me feel like a million bucks. It also has a subconscious soothing quality which is why I’m guessing it ends up splattered on the majority of bedroom walls. So here’s a few items that have got me feeling blue (in a good way!).

I just got the new IKEA Fall catalog in the mail and it was brimming with inspiration. The thing you have to remember with Ikea is that moderation is key. As much as we all want our places to look meticulously organized and perfectly color-coordinated, you do NOT want your place to look like a catalog. If you outfit your entire home/apartment in everything from one store, it’s going to feel sterile. That being said, I heart Ikea and always will. This candleholder caught my eye due both to it’s cheerful color and its organic shape. The site says it’s mouth blown and I believe it. Just add a sweet smelling candle and a vase of blue hydrangea’s and wait for the zen to start flowing.

My beach days are numbered so it’s time to phase out the peachy-keen tone I’ve been rocking all summer. I believe the shade was something called Boca Raton so I think it’s time to cease channeling aging sun-worshipers down south and graduate to a more urban color. It’s no longer teenagers sporting the bold nail colors these days. Turquoise, yellow, Grey, you name it, they’ve all developed quite a following this past year. Polish by Butter London reminded me of a Crayola crayon fresh from the box. They always had the best names, like Cerulean Blue, or Cornflower. While I won’t be getting a matching Mani-Pedi with this bold color, it’s nice to mix things up and make a statement.

Us mere mortals sometimes have a hard time pulling off one big block of color like Ms.Hendricks above, but that doesn’t mean you can’t experiment with color altogether. Even a little dose can perk up an outfit. This Leather Wrap Bracelet by Gorjana can be worn with almost anything. The leather bracelet has been big this season and has evolved past its more masculine rocker roots. And I’m a longtime fan of Gorjana, they make really beautiful and affordable understated jewelry. I’m looking forward to fall where I expect nothing but blue skies ahead.

While Hepburn was famous for her killer pants, and masculine style, in the movie, The Philadelphia Story, she gets to dance about in gowns while the leading men fight for her affections. One of my favorite outfits from the film, was an elegant twist-front dress she basically wears as a swimsuit cover-up. I can’t say I’m quite as glamorous at the beach, but she looks like a Grecian goddess in white robe. This type of knot-front draping has been popping up all over the place in different interpretations. The draping and style make a flattering cut for anyone since gives you the appearance of a small waistline and the extra twisted fabric gives you some breathing room in the front since it’s usually made from stretchy soft jersey fabric and not body-hugging satin.

This knot-front dress by Akiko is a great modern twist on Hepburn’s style. Obviously it’s showing off a lot more skin, but hey this ain’t 1940 anymore. I also love the vibrant color and pleating on the bottom for even more vintage influence. This is definitely a more cocktail-friendly version, but you don’t want to go too long in length or else people might ask if you you’ll be attending a prom theme party later that evening.

For something a little less flashy but with the same attention-grabbing twist, this knot dress by Nanette Lepore is a virtual vertigo to the eye. I never thought I could even dream to afford Lepore, but her new laid-back line, Oonagh, is chocked full of budget-friendly and no less fashion forward pieces. The pattern on the dress is really interesting and the colors are muted so as not to be too loud. And it’s a great alternative if you don’t want show off so much skin. I guess you could do this one for day and the turquoise one for night. After all, if Ms. Hepburn can undergo multiple costume changes in one day, why can’t you?

]]> http://shoptherapy.pronto.com/2010/08/18/all-knotted-up-in-style-twist-front-dresses/feed/ 0 http://shoptherapy.pronto.com/2010/08/16/back-to-cool-a-fall-fashion-wishlist/ http://shoptherapy.pronto.com/2010/08/16/back-to-cool-a-fall-fashion-wishlist/#comments Mon, 16 Aug 2010 16:20:34 +0000 Laura Smith http://shoptherapy.blog2.pronto.com/?p=4822 I’ve been a terrible lazy blogger lately, what with it being summer and all. It’s hard to get a tan when you’re cooped up inside. So I haven’t done my “lust list” in a while and I considered it well overdue. Not that I haven’t been shopping, or web window shopping, there’s been plenty to lust after this summer. Jeffrey Campbell shoes being numero uno, lots of retro swimsuits, and flirty sundresses galore.  And though sale season is upon us, I know that fall is right around the corner and everyone has to go back to school or back to reality and a desk in my case. While my Trapper Keeper shopping days may be behind me, I still get excited at the prospect of doing some back to school shopping. It may be on my dime, but I can’t help but get a little excited when I start to see tweed blazers, corduroy everything and knee socks start popping up in stores. So here are a few things that might make the end of summer a little less bittersweet.

As a brand I used to only associate with my high-school years and casual watches, Fossil has really been stepping up their game. I flipped through their fall catalog and fell in love with this Jerri print Dress. It’s got a vintage style that I love and I can imagine myself wearing it to work and cocktails with some sweet mary-jane platform pumps. You can take the librarian out of the library but you can’t take sexy out of the librarian. They also had some great leather satchels I wouldn’t mind stocking up on. The dress comes into two different prints, but the purple print one gets my vote.

Leave it to Urban Outfitters to have some cheeky school supplies. The line is called “Trompe-l’œil”, which is French for ‘deceive the eye’. Which is an artistic technique for using realistic looking pictures to make something appear to be three dimensional. So you’ve got laptop cases that look like keyboards, and flat pencil cases which appear to be office objects like scissors and pencils. It’s a cute theme and makes for some pretty nerdy-chic accessories. My favorite is this laptop sleeve patterned off old school composition notebooks. It makes me feel like I’m still just a hardworking student at heart.

That’s right folks, the “bootie” trend is not going anywhere. It’s here to stay,  just in different incarcerations. I’ve been in the market for a pair of ankle boots that have heels but don’t involve me risking my life and livelihood walking up the subway stairs. I like to imagine that if I were a lumberjack by day and style maven by night, these boots would be a nice compromise between my two polar lifestyles. They’re by Dolce Vita so naturally I wanted them instantly. I already own a couple pairs of boots from them and they have never let me down. Not only is their style spot-on, but their shoes stand up to the wear and tear, rain or shine.  This brown lace-up pair has a nice collegiate feel to it and would look great with some ribbed tights. I have a love/hate relationship with tights, but I am scarily actually looking forward to wearing them. I’ll probably curse the day they were invented in a later post. Stay tuned.

Having already mastered the perfect print dress, Tracy Reese works the same magic in the housewares department. Her budget-friendly spin-off line, Plenty by Tracy Reese, includes this set of folk-art inspired hand towels that come in an array of bold colors. And at less than $15 a piece, I can afford to buy the whole set. It’s always good to have back-up towels so you don’t gross out your house guests.

Being a sucker for graphic prints, of course I scooped up these Vintage Kitchen Utensil hand towels. Each towel pictures a different kitchen gadget which your Grandmother probably got as a wedding present.

I love the whimsical style of the illustrations but at the same time I’m glad I don’t have to wield any of these actual tools in my kitchen. I can barely work my garlic press let alone this medieval looking egg beater. They even tell you what each tool is, just in case you’re worried about having instruments of torture hanging on your towel bar.

Now that I can actually dry my hands in the bathroom, the only thing I missing is more square footage! I think Delta airlines has more bathroom space than me.

Rule # 1 Polyester is Not your friend

I’m a great lover of vintage, so when I came across a backless golden colored dress at one of my favorite thrift stores, I thought it would be perfect for our friends’ lakeside wedding last summer. While I got to strut around pretending to be Joan from Mad Men, only after spending one hour in the heat did I realize that there’s a reason why 100 % polyester dresses got phased out. They’re hot as hell. That man-made fabric can certainly stand up to the test of time, but against humidity, it never stood a chance. Don’t make the same mistake as me, and stick to fabrics that allow some breathing room, like this Garden Party Dress by Rachel Pally. Made with modal, otherwise known as artificial silk, it absorbs moisture easily and feels like you’re wearing nothing at all. Plus this festive print reminds me of a summer fireworks display, without of course, distracting guests from the real main event, the wedding!

Rule # 2 Be Aware of Length

I know maxi dresses are all the rage this season, but unless you’re going to a beach wedding, I’d leave them at home. After all, a wedding is a pretty formal affair. You also don’t want to be mistaken for one of the bridal party while wearing a full-length gown. That being said, it’s important not to go too far in the other direction. A cocktail dress is fine, but flashing your friend’s elderly Nana when you sit down is something to be avoided at all costs. This cheerful polka dot wrap dress from Leifsdottir is the perfect length for any summer soiree.  It hits above the knee, but the draped front gives the appearance of a longer length. I love the fun ruffles and it’s a much more interesting silhouette than your basic sundress. And with a name like “sparks fly”, I hope the groomsmen are a charming bunch.

Rule # 3 Embrace Color

I think we all know better than to wear white to someone else’s wedding, but I also think black is such a cop out color for festive occasions. Maybe for a fancy black-tie affair, but for summer engagements, take advantage of the sunny atmosphere and get some color in your life! Whether solid or an interesting print, you can save that little black dress for all your other occasions. This one-shoulder print dress from French Connection has a lot of things going for it. The print reminds me a lot of an impressionist painting, and the slouchy one shoulder and tie waist really make it stand out in a sea of cocktail dresses. I think it straddles the line between casual and formal perfectly, so you can wear it, even after the nuptials are over.  And if you’re hesitant about your lack of tan against a bright color, pick a darker shade or a cool pattern to make it pop on even the palest of complexions.

Rule # 4 Put on Your Dancing Shoes

If there’s one thing you can expect at a wedding, it’s lots of dancing. I once made the mistake of wearing stiletto sandals and spent half the night sitting at the reception table resting my poor tortured soles. And lord help you if it’s a garden party and you’re stuck with your heels in the grass. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, wedge shoes are a girl’s best friend. And lucky for you, there’s more options than ever to choose from. Whether it’s an espadrille sandal, a peep toe pump or a cut-out sandal, they give you the height without the foot pain. I’ve got my eye on this white leather number from Faryl Robin. This way I get to spend more time on the dance floor and less time making small talk with someone’s drunk uncle. Did someone say Conga Line?

Ok, I know what you’re thinking. Dry shampoo really? Isn’t that for people who are too lazy to wash their hair everyday aka me? Or for those times when you’re backpacking through Europe and spray a little Psssssst (instant shampoo), since there’s no time to wash your hair while you’re seeing the world?! Unlike the dry shampoos of old, all the new products out on the market today are much more sophisticated than your basic baby powder.

Faux Dry by Blow is a lightweight powder that seamlessly blends into your hair, absorbing grease and moisture, and gives it new bounce and life. It’s perfect for in-between washes, or if you just need a little pick-me-up before going out for the night. Even if you’re hair is clean, spray a little at the roots to get increased volume. It’s also great for giving washed hair some texture, and makes it easier to style. It does it all! And unlike a lot of dry shampoos, it won’t look like you have grey or white hair after you mistakenly over apply a la Kate Moss. So now that the cats out of the bag, you know where to find your own bottle.

Just like its predecessor, Lonny is filled with page after page of beautiful homes, beach bungalows, and endless inspiration. After flipping through their most recent issue, I fell in love with this room. A lot of times when people hear the word modern when applied to home decor, they immediately think all slick white interiors and uncomfortable looking furniture. I’m glad there are rooms like this, to break the assumption that color can’t be used in a fun and modern way. First of all, I would probably take out a loan just to make these studded headboards mine, and secondly, these stand-out shape print pillows make we want to decorate my whole apartment just using my old geometry book.

These silk pillows from All Modern, reminded a lot of the ones from the magazine, with their bright contrast design, and intricate shapes. They’re a great addition to any blah bedding, or to throw on your favorite chair. Its design is something akin to a kaleidoscope or a magic eye, I can’t quite decide. Either way, it’s certain to stand out in your house. Since I’m a lover of bold color, these will go with my orange sheets nicely. There’s a reason so many athletic teams have brown and orange as their team colors, they’re a dream team when combined.

Look at this gang. It makes me want to pack a suitcase and assemble some partners in crime for a mystery getaway. While I love all of these summer styles, the one I covet most the the red-headed gal in the middle with the killer heels. While I’m not one to sport cropped trousers with a tube top, I’m willing to give it a try. I also wouldn’t mind some vintage steamer trunks and a cat to walk on a leash.

Initially I tried to track down a starch white strapless top, but every one of them was embellished with zippers, bows, you name it. But I think this Eyelet Corset Top will do just fine to help recreate my perfect summer outfit. It has a great 50’s inspired sweet heart neckline and some great boning underneath to give it its slimming shape. Plus what’s more summer inspired than white cotton eyelet fabric? Nothing, that’s what. Leave it to Anthropologie to make a lady feel like a lady.

Now that the top is taken care of, it’s time to work our way to the bottom part of this ensemble. Cropped trousers are the for those of us who are scared of harem pants but still don’t want to have to wear jeans as our only alternative. They’re sharp. come in varying lengths, and their high-waist style is suitable for many body types. These Sarouel Trousers from ABS Luxury perfectly mimic the illustration’s Katherine Hepburn style pants. It’s the kind of traveling while elegant style, everyone should aspire to. The balance of ladylike frills on top with gentlemanly bottoms, is a style match made in heaven.

Ugh yes I know, MORE red shoes. You would think I was Dorothy the way I collect red footwear. While I was leaning toward these drool-worthy tie-up heels from Loeffler Randall, I decided to stick with the theme and find something to match the cartoon version of myself. Modcloth is known for their decidedly retro style, so of course they’re the first place I looked to find some vintage looking, pin-up pumps. Plus all of their product names are ridiculously adorable, such as these ‘Pump Up the Jams’ Pumps. Just an FYI, if you have a knack for coming up with nicknames and you like free stuff, they often host a “Name It and Win It” Contest, for who can come up with the best product names. Anyways, while the idea of traveling in heels may not seem ideal, I can attest to the fact that anything with a stacked heel like these are a breeze to walk in, there’s a reason why they were so popular back in the day. They’re just as sassy as stilettos minus all the trips to the podiatrist. Now that I found some illustrated style inspiration, I may resort going back to paper dolls for fashion practice.

I’ve had my eye on this Daytripper Dress, (from QuikSilver no less), for some time now, and now it’s on super sale. Who knew the same people who outfit surfers and supplied me with endless hoodie options during adolescence, would churn out such a stylish womanswear line. It’s the perfect option for summer, made with lightweight material and a loose cut, to allow some breathing room during this sweltering summer. The length is long enough so you won’t have any unfortunate wind-related accidents, and the roll up sleeves let you customize their length. Now all you need is a woven belt to wrap it all up.

For a more luxe version of a similar shirt dress, there’s this Belted Caftan from Brochu Walker. The similarities are striking to be sure, I guess this is the more grown-up version, made with 100% cotton and paired with Proenza Schouler heels. Like the one above, this caftan has some series slits up the side similar to a bathing suit cover-up. But the casualness is balanced out by the dress shirt style pockets in the front and the belted waist. Both options are great, I guess it depends on what your fashion budget is. Some of us are bargain hunters and others collect designers like they were vintage baseball cards.

Fantasy

The French labels were really the kickstarters of this trend, with Celine and Chloe leading the way, did any of us really stand a chance of resisting the simple chic design and supple leather? I know huge label bags are on the out (i.e Louis Vuitton) but if someone wants to give me a gift certificate to Net-a-porter for this Chloe Cross-Body Hobo, who I am to say no? What’s great about this trend is due to their size, a weight is literally lifted off your shoulders. Who says fashion requires trips to the chiropractors. With various styles, colors and accents, there is literally hundreds of options to choose from.

Reality

Ok, I know Marc Jacobs isn’t exactly a steal, but it’s certainly a fraction of the cost of the Chloe one with just as much style and swagger. While the bucket bags are all the rage right now, I’m a big fan of the understated turnlock bag from Marc by Marc Jacobs. It’s simple flap design and lock remind me of the cherished hand me downs I’ve received from my Grandmother, a true clotheshorse. It’s probably one of the few things in the Jacobs family that’s under $200 and I could see myself wearing it everyday, for it really does go with every outfit. Or you can chalk it up to me being a Scorpio and my fascination with locks and secrets. Fate, innate style, whatever the case may be, I know a winner when I see one.

As the same suggests, this style features masculine tailoring but cut to flatter a woman’s body. They also seem to be a fashion bloggers’ staple du jour recently. Whether it’s fine silk or crisp cotton, the boyfriend shirt never falls to make you look put-together. I love anything with a wide collar, a loose fit, and a pocket in front. There are certain designers that are known for killing it in the menswear for woman department. Rag & Bone make beautifully tailored garments at “investment” prices. Theory also makes basics, not so basic anymore. And somewhat newbie label, Equipment is churning out some enviable pieces as well, as shown above.

For a similar look that’s a little more wallet friendly, there’s this linen blouse from Banana Republic. It comes in an array of colors and at $60, you could probably afford to get one in each color. It’s been hotter than I humanly thought possible in New York City the past couple of weeks, so when I see words like silk, linen, sheer, I can already feel myself getting cooler. So as much as you love your boyfriend’s button-down that you sneak away when he’s not paying attention, it’s now time for you to invest in one of your own.

Have you noticed I love the color red yet? For someone who has red hair, I have an inordinate number of red items in my closest. This over-sized pullover sweater from DKNY combines two of my favorite trends this past season: off the shoulder and knits. It has a bold nautical vibe and would certainly add punch to any outfit. I love her breezy white pants too, but I’m too much of a slob to keep those things stain-free. What can I say, I love condiments. It also comes in black, if you’re looking for something a little more appropriate for night time.

If you’re really looking to show some skin, this cropped crochet tank leaves little to the imagination. The intricate knit pattern is really quite beautiful and if you’re not ready to bear it all with just a bra underneath, add a skinny camisole of any color for your own take on it. The designer, Kelly Bergin is known for her retro-inspired lines, and this tank definitely reminds me of a modern day flapper. I tracked it down at Revolve Clothing, which I now lovingly refer to as: the place where all my money goes.

On a recent trip out West, I learned my lesson when it comes to dressing for air travel. Layer, layer, and than layer some more. It’s was a million degrees when I left New York, and I knew there would be similar weather waiting for me in Los Angeles. So I wore a long tank with a light cardigan, slip on flats, and thought I was ready to go. I quickly realized that the conditions inside a plane cabin were quite similar to being inside a meat locker; cold and confined.

While I folded my arms to generate body heat the entire flight, my travel companion snuggled up in her wrap cardigan and slept soundly the whole way. Needless to say I learned my lesson, and as soon as I got home, I started browsing around the perfect wrap cardigan to be my future travel companion.

Unlike a boyfriend cardigan, these newest wraps are still long in length, but are usually made of soft jersey with an asymmetrical finish at the end. Plus you don’t have to fuss around with buttons when you want to warm up. Just wrap yourself up in the softness with this black version by Splendid. Long known for their great basics, I have a Splendid dress that feels like I’m wearing a nightgown. I must say, they have really cornered the market on unbelievably soft material. And if you get hot, just slip it off, bundle it into a ball, and voila instant travel pillow.

For those people who’s entire wardrobe doesn’t consist of black clothing like myself, here’s a cute summery version of a wrap. from Bloomingdales in-house brand, Aqua. This nautically inspired wrap comes with a tie waist for some nice structure and is a great layering piece to include in your wardrobe. I like the way they have it styled here with a casual tank and skinny jeans. If you want to go for extra comfort, pair it with some soft stretchy leggings. I DARE you not to nap the whole way.

Take A Seat

Leave it to the Brits to make something so practical look so dandy. Brooks England has been making fine leather biking goods since 1882 and if anything they just get better and better over time. They sell everything from saddles aka seats, bike bags, tool kits, and even custom handlebars. A longtime favorite among hardcore cyclists, they’re known for their durability and style. This leather seat is great for road bikes and like anything leather, the longer you use it, the better broken in it gets.  I’d trade in my old silicone seat for this comfy leather version any day.

A Tisket, A Tasket

Does anything epitomize lazy summer days more than a bike basket? Granted they’re on the girly side but I mean, just look at it. You cannot deny the cuteness and usefulness of a wicker bike basket. This Kate Spade one first caught my eye, but until the magical bike fairy appears with $325, I’m gonna snag this one from Urban Outfitters at a fraction of the cost. Perfect for carting around market buys or fresh flowers, this woven basket comes with adjustable straps so it will fit onto any bike type. It makes me want to move to France, subsisting on wine and baguettes alone, and my little turquoise bike.

Lock it Up

I know I promised all frills and accessories, but if you’re gonna ride a bike, you’re gonna need a lock. As a former victim of bike theft,  I realize the importance of having a good lock. And this is coming from someone who’s handlebars were cut off while the bike was locked to my front step! Granted not everyone is living and riding in the bike theft capital of the country, so the New York City Chain Lock, may be more than you need. If you don’t want to ride around with a giant chain that almost weighs 10 lbs, I suggest the Kryptonite U-Lock from REI. It offers the same heavy duty protection but can be easily clipped onto your bike’s lock holder while you ride, worry free. I almost want to get the Kryptonite’s “Fahgettaboudit” just so when people express concern for my bike I can respond with, “FAHGETTABOUDIT!”

Ring My Bell

Another cute accessory but also good for safety purposes, is the bike bell. You may have left your streamers and banana seats behind in your driveway days,  but bike bells are not just for kids. I love this one by Electra featuring the artwork of one of my favorite graphic artists of all time, Alexander Girard. This cheerful sun graphic and loud bell let’s people know ahead me, that I’m coming through. It’s important to remember, just like car horns, bike bells are to be used in moderation. Otherwise you might make enemies in your neighborhood with your constant ringing.

Happy Riding!

Movie Muse

To begin my hunt for the perfect set of drop earrings, I remembered these killer fringe earrings that Natalie Portman wore in the movie Closer. It’s weird that I still remember her ensemble so vividly even though the movie came out 6 years ago. Her dark bob and statement earrings perfectly encompassed  her man-eating ways. To achieve a similar look, I looked for anything long with a unique shape.

With their Walmart days long behind them, the Olsen twins have been whipping one stylish collection after another with their labels the Row and Elizabeth and James. Always understated but also with a little bit of flash, these drop earrings from their Elizabeth and James collection stand out with their mixed metal combination.  A combination of sterling silver with a gold plated inlay, it mixes easily with any outfit and its simplistic shape is timeless.

While I love being eco-friendly I’m not so keen on “green style”.  Most of it involves recycled safety belts and tacky hemp items. So when I saw these dangle Triangle Earrings from The Harbinger Company, I knew they were onto something. Made from sustainable bamboo, these earrings look like something you would find in a Geometry textbook.  Their intricate cut-out design and lightweight feel make them the perfect summer accessory. Plus I’m falling more and more in love with the new independent web store, Moxsie, who’s now offering crazy discounts to new customers. I’m sure you’ll soon be falling for them too.

They combine all of my favorite elements of style: good construction, comfortable insole, and the versatility to match almost everything I own.  It’s an easy way to incorporate the nude trend that’s been going strong this season.  I might just splurge on the natural and black pairs. A girl always likes options. While I’m usually a flats girl, wood heels have always been a breeze to walk in and they stand up better to wear and tear since there’s no pin in the heel. After walking up and down city streets for the past 4 years, I know what type of shoes tend to last. And with all the money you save, you can snag a new summer dress to go with it.

When pouring a beer, you’re bound to get a little foam or “head” on top, but this is a good thing. The foam acts as a net, trapping all the byproducts of the fermentation process. In layman’s terms, it increases the aroma and captures all the spices and other ingredients used in making the beer. Plus it looks good.  So whether you’re a veteran beer drinker or looking to branch out, here is a brief list of the types of glassware to choose from. Bottom’s up!

Pint Glass

The most versatile of beer glasses, the pint glass works for a wide variety of beer types. It’s the main reason why it’s sometimes they only glass offered in bars. It works great for any type of ale, stout, lager, and many more. I like the English style of this six piece set from Sur La Table which works great for entertaining larger parties. I like their simplicity and the fact that they don’t have logos slapped on them. Apparently you’re not supposed to chill your glassware due to the condensation diluting the taste, but if it’s sweltering hot outside and my apartment doesn’t have A/C that glass is going in the fridge!

Snifter

Commonly used for serving cognac and brandy, the Snifter glass is good for serving any type of beer with a strong aroma, particularly ales, stouts, and lambics. In the name itself, “sniff” implies how it is to be enjoyed. The wide lip allows you to hold it up to your nose and fully take in the smells of each beer. While this act seems a little pretentious for beer drinking, there’s no shame in enjoying handcrafted brews. Someone just needs to make a movie like Sideways for beer drinkers and then we too can be unabashed beer snobs.

Pilsner

I always feel like I’m getting the royal treatment when someone serves me a beer in a tall pilsner glass. The presentation of it classes up whatever beer you serve it in. Great for showing off rich red lagers or fizzy pilsner beers, this flute-like glass makes any beer you pour into it, good til the last drop. It’s often served with the Czech beer  Pilsner Urquell, because the name of the glass actually comes from the Czech town of Pilsen where the beer originated. Pick up this elegant pilsner glass set from Macy’s and start sipping.

Mug/Stein

The oldest style of beer glass, the mug or stein is for those times you know you’re not driving anywhere. They come in many shapes and weights but one thing they all have in common, they’re great for clinking together for cheers. While some prefer the traditional heavy stein styles, I love these faceted dimple mugs from Libbey Glass.  It almost feels like you’re drinking beer out of your grandmother’s crystal. These are for people who like to drink with bravado, which I like to think, is everyone.

I was inspired by this breezy beach shoot by independent designer Wiksten, of how a simple tee or dress can become something that really stands out. While I won’t be breaking out my scissors just yet to achieve the same look, I found a lot of other shoulder skimming options I’ll be living in this summer.

How much do I love Swedish style?, let me count the ways. While known for creating the perfect pair of skinny jeans, the Scandinavian brand Acne Jeans , also makes straightforward and stunning clothes. This Flynn Dress is an interesting take on the little black dress, with elongated cut out shoulders and slouchy fabric. Feel free to pair it with some wild shoes since the simple black silhouette could be pretty much worn with anything. While I can’t achieve their perfect bone structure and golden tresses, I’ll settle for the Swedes stylish imports.

For something a little more budget friendly, this Myne Naomi Dress from Shopbop has the same cool cut-out design, but is a little less severe looking with its sweet floral pattern. It also features a universally flattering drop-waist and a cool drop V-shape in the back. It’s certainly a lot more adventurous than your basic summer sundress. Perfect for a backyard BBQ or a night on the town!

What I love about her designs is the way she infuses humor into them. For instance, I first came across her work when I picked up a Verameat ring with a dinosaur trying to eat a fried chicken drumstick. Not the first image that comes to mind when you think of costume jewelry but if funny man Zach Galifianakis is on board then so am I. And he’s not the only celeb sporting her one of a kind designs. Not all of her pieces are so avant garde. She also makes nautical inspired jewelry that’s delicate looking but a style statement nonetheless. She’s one of those people that’s does everything from start a band, to live on both coasts and last time I ran into her, live in Paris. Verameat’s certainly got it going on.

A Little Bit of Ruffles

I’m breaking my one of my cardinal style rules here. Normally I turn up my nose to anything pink or ruffled but this ruffled riceflower tanktop really won me over.  The amount of times I mention Anthropologie you’d think I was there spokesman but sadly I am not.  This Ruffled Riceflower Tank was on display in their local store and the more times I walked by it on the way to work, the more it enticed me and I had to make it mine.  The floral pattern is nice and subtle and the back is gorgeous. Now I just need some cute shorts, a big brown belt and I’m ready to play in a field of wildflowers.

Exotic Hair Treatment

Our hair really gets the most abuse when it comes to beauty routines. We iron it, curl it and blow it into submission every day. After months of frying my hair I was stuck with some pretty scary split ends and I decided enough was enough and cut it all off. If only I had heard of this miracle hair treatment beforehand, I might have held onto those 10 inches. This Moroccan Hair Oil line has been getting rave reviews and a ton of press since its release. Formerly a backstage beauty secret, it now has legions of adoring fans. The key ingredient is Argan Oil which has been used by Moroccan women for centuries to combat the country’s hot native climate. It boasts a whole list of benefits: controls frizz, strengthens dry or damaged hair, nourishes the scalp, and adds sleek and shine. That’s quite a claim to fame! It’s the perfect secret weapon to get those locks beach ready.

Breakfast is Served

Everyone gets asked the question, if you had the choice to eat one last meal, what would it be? And my answer every time is eggs. Whether for breakfast, lunch or dinner I could eat eggs anytime of day. And there’s so many different ways to prepare them! With over 40 different recipes, you’re sure to become the brunch master after flipping through this Eggs Cookbook from Williams Sonoma. Learn how to make the perfect strata, quiche, and breakfast burrito. Plus there’s tips on mastering the basics like frying, poaching and scrambling. Whoever says they skip breakfast has obviously not read this cookbook.

I Want My MTV

Before MTV was home to Speidi or high brow shows like the Jersey Shore, they had an amazing line-up of animated shows from Beavis and Butthead, to Aeon Flux and of course my personal favorite Daria. It’s crazy to think it came out 13 years ago, but after a very long wait, this groundbreaking show was finally released on DVD. The poster girl for any High School outsider, Daria was a unique character to exist on TV.  With the help on some spot-on writing, she delivered the best one-line zingers and never apologized for who she was. This series set now feels like a time capsule with its “cutting-age” 90’s soundtrack and dated pop references. But the series itself is timeless, because as long as high school still exists, there will always be a Daria at every school.

Made with the same quality recycled cotton as their trendy totes, these backpacks come in a whole rainbow of colors and can easily fit all the essentials you’d need for a day trip or even your gym gear. And with its easy snap closure you don’t have to worry about breaking zippers or dealing with buckles and other hardware when you’re in a rush. So if you don’t wanted to fell weighed down by a bulky handbag this summer, just slip on one of these babies and you’re ready for anything.

This matching set of Best Friend pouches from Rebecca Minkoff are perfect for bi-coastal buddies. A modern version of a friendship necklace, each pouch features half of a complete heart. They’re perfect for holding spare change for trips to the laundromat, loose cosmetics, or odds and ends when traveling. I’m a longtime Minkoff fan for both her covetable handbag collection and her cheeky accessories collection that brought us the “Trust Fund” pouch or “Can’t Buy Me Love” pouch. Pick up a set for your BFF, it always pays off when your birthday comes.

But in the spirit of spring cleaning and keeping up appearances I’m finally going to invest in a new wallet. The problem is there are so many and often they are on the pricey side for something I just amass receipts in. Designer wallets tend to outlive their cheaper counterparts but as I rule I don’t buy anything that has logos all over it. It’s just not my thing. So here’s one I fell in love with that also passed my personal litmus test.

This trifold wallet from Linea Pelle is pretty much everything you would need in a wallet. I like to be able to quickly access my credit cards and Subway card without fumbling with zippers or digging through a change purse. The trifold style could possibly fit your whole life in there George Costanza style and it doubles as a wristlet with a handy leather loop. It comes in 7 different colors and its size makes it the perfect travel companion. It’s pricier than maybe some of the more basic options, but what I’ve realized over the year is, you get what you pay for.

Blame my Philadelphia upbringing or unnatural attachment to old things, but I love Colonial style. The best part of this pair is they’re not actually running on oil. I love good design but I love fire hazards a lot less. This modern plug-in version also features a dimmer switch so you can obtain that candlelit atmosphere quill pen in hand or not. While I count Ben Franklin as an inspiration for a lot of things, style muse was not something I expected. You gotta hand it to Pottery Barn for their excellent antiques inspired housewares collection. It’s like Craigslist without the middle man.

Infusing their signature classic style with a modern twist, I was surprised by the urban feel it had. They have a cute little Sartorialist, capturing that effortless street style. If you’re looking to freshen up your spring wardrobe or just like free stuff, Lands End Canvas is teaming up with Lucky Magazine to give their Facebook fans the chance to win a $100 gift card. All through the month of May, all you have to do is click the Like button on their Facebook page and you’re eligible to win. I’ve already eyed up a few key items I wouldn’t mind magically showing up in the mail. This Suede Bucket Tote being one of them, and these sandals aren’t too shabby either.

While I can’t say I’m looking forward to swimsuit season, these cute suits aren’t as intimidating as a Brazilian bikini. I’m a bag fan of this sporty bandeau style and it comes  in eight different colors so you can’t complain about a lack of variety. Now if only her six pack came with the suit, I’d be all set for summer. Check out the rest of their new summer styles and start making your wish list!

I like to think that Vers caters to the sophisticated nerd. You know the one that enjoys fine wood finishing just as much as the 14 function remote control that goes with it. Designed to be compact in size but large in sound, it’s the perfect bookcase speaker that will suit any room. Each speaker system is custom engineered and takes over a week to build. They also use eco-friendly materials such as sustainable eucalyptus and pine wood to produce the speaker casings; which results in a low impact to the environment and a cleaner sound due to the rigidness of the wood. (You learn something new everyday). Their mission statement is actually quite informative and they also design other gadget cases for the iPod Touch and the new iPad.  The Vers 2X comes with the choice of 5 different wood finishes, but no matter which one you choose, they’re all guaranteed to sound amazing.

Playsuit

The playsuit, the jumpsuit, the romper, it goes by many names but still has the overall same affect. It seems people can’t bother themselves with wearing separates any more. Oh you wear shirts AND shorts at the same time? How adorable. This is a trend I have been fighting for a long time. To me rompers remind me of the playground. They were always a little too infantile for my taste. But as someone who owns what is essentially a little boys top with robots all over it, I can’t really call something out for being immature. But like with any trend, there are many ways to interpret it. The Simple Molly playsuit by the British fashion label, Motel looks luxe with a tailored collar, abstract print and sweet little shorts. I am so happy the faux separates look came back. It looks like an effortlessly paired outfit except really it’s just one thing you can throw on. Now if only I could steal her bangs as well as her style, then I’d really be in ship-shape.

Vans

Some people associate Vans with teenage skaters, cutting school, and those pesky kids you always see smoking on the corner. And while the brand continues to have its authentic skating roots, they still put out some awesome shoes for any age. I’m not a big sneaker person. I have an aversion to laces and sometimes socks. I’ve professed my love for slip-ons before and I’ll do it again. There’s just something so cheerful about red shoes,  they can brighten your mood anytime you put them on. That Dorothy chick was onto something. These “lo-pro” sneaks are the perfect casual go-to shoe. I love the candy stripe tongue that just barely peaks through. They’re perfect bike-riding shoes for summer.

A Fine Frenzy: Bomb In A Birdcage

I can’t decide if I’m obsessed with Alison Sudol aka A Fine Frenzy,  because of her beautiful voice or her amazing hair/style. Either way, I’ve been playing her new album, Bomb in a Birdcage, on repeat much to my boyfriend’s annoyance (although secretly I think he likes it). I fell in love after watching her plucky video for the single, “Electric Twist” which you can watch on her homepage.  In the video I also spotted her wearing a zodiac shirt by Wildfox Couture, another great LA export. A brand well worth an entire post on, stay tuned.

Sweet Shades

There are certain fashion items I refuse to “invest” in.  I understand the appeal of designer sunglasses, the practicality not so much. It’s hard to find a pair of shades that suit your face shape, so after I finally found a pair I promptly sat on them and was heartbroken. Good rule of thumb, if you find something you love, but at least two of that same item. With sunglasses, you might want to buy 4. One for losing in the ocean, another for breaking in your purse, a third for blowing off your head, and the fourth for safe-keeping. Summer is quite hazardous apparently! Of course the mod-lover in me fell for these retro style shades by French Connection. They’re the perfect shape, they come in fun colors and their under $50. They meet all my criteria so naturally I’ll have to get multiple pairs. Next up on the lust list: a sunglasses case.

When I hear the word espadrille I think of towering wedge shoes with all sorts of ribbons, peep-toes, and other adornments, but MyMu shoes are quite the opposite. After spending summers in Buenos Aries growing up, designer Gabriela Lanardonne loved the way locals wore espadrilles with any kind of outfit. She wanted to bring that casual style to the states and so MyMu was born. These canvas shoes comes in all kind of fun color combination’s and lively patterns. Their lookbook shows these shoes being worn pool-side and with cocktail gowns to show off their versatility. Personally they look like the perfect sidewalk shoe for getting around the city. Each one has a braided sole made of of jute, so they’re not prone to wear and tear. I’ve been eying up these black and white diamond slip-ons to suit my summer escapades. They’re the perfect alternative to leather flatswhich frankly limit my frolicking capabilities.

Located in the sprawling space of Chelsea Market, it first seemed like an odd location for a retail store. Sure you got your cured Italian meats, fresh lobster from the seafood place, multiple bakeries and now some feminine frocks to feast your eyes on. Let me say, the space is beautiful. I think Anthropologie takes a very unique approach when it comes to designing their stores.  From the moment I step into one of them I feel like I’ve entered some exotic market bazaar/art gallery/prop set. Their new location is covered with ornate tile, spiraling staircases, and a very obvious ocean theme. There’s even a boat bed! Who wouldn’t want to take a nap in that?

Although Anthropologie is a chain store, each one of their locations is different. Each store has a team of artists who come up with rotating concepts. So along with the boat there was plenty of paper maché oceans and all sorts of bric-a-brac. Naturally being in this kind of stimulating and colorful environment makes me want to buy stuff, and buy things I did. Although it’s a new store, they still had a whole room devoted to the sale section downstairs. I do love a good bargain and I struck GOLD on my first visit. I’d been on the hunt for one of staples of the season, a denim button down shirt. The one I found had that perfect sun washed look and even though it looked like denim it was made out a silk-like cotton, so there was no stiffness or bulkiness. And did I mention I got it on sale for $9? Yes the shopping gods were smiling down on me that day. Then it was onto the home section. While I don’t normally buy many clothes there,  I go gaga over their housewares. I mean how many spoon rests does a girl really need? So of course I couldn’t leave without scooping up a scented candle to greet my shortly arriving out of town guests.

This Illume Anemone Jar will class up any bathroom. It comes encased in a beautiful white glass jar and smells great without any overpowering floral scents. All in all it was a very successful field trip indeed.  So if you find yourself in the New York area, it’s well worth the trip.

As someone who was told by a bouncer “lady you need a smaller bag”, after frantically scrounging around for my ID, I am totally the stereotypical woman who carries around their life in their bags. I can’t help it, stuff tends to just pile up. While most of the bucket bags in stores now are more edgy, this canvas bag from Lucky Brand is lightweight and matches a spring color palette perfectly. To be honest I haven’t been inside a Lucky Brand store since high school. While I won’t be shimming into any of their low-rise jeans nowadays, their accessory line has been spot on lately. Even their jewelry has a cute vintage appeal to it. So if you’re a pack-rat like me, sport your big bag with confidence. After all, you’ll be the one your friends will come crying to when they need your Shout wipes or compact.

While it seems silly to most guys that women actually “iron” their hair, it’s something that I guarantee can be found in most women’s beauty arsenals. Most of the straighteners on the market today are quite versatile and are mostly used just to smooth unruly hair rather than flatten it to Cher-like proportions. The can range in price from under $50 to the Cadillac of irons, the GHD Professional which usually runs over $200. Having been blessed with crappy in-between hair, (it doesn’t know if it wants to be straight or curly) I have tried many different versions over the years. A roommate of mine had the GHD straightener and while it worked great, it certainly wasn’t worth its hefty price tag. After checking out some reviews, etc I settled on the T3 SinglePass Iron and boy am I glad I did. I could go on about “Tourmaline” technology and infrared heat, all I know is that it works great. It heats up to its full temperature before I’ve even taken a second sip of coffee. And like the name says, it only requires a single pass over your hair instead of tiring out your arm going over the same section over and over again. So if your looking to tame your mane and fight off the humidity of summer, I can personally vouch for this miracle tool.

If you’re not familiar with ASOS, they’re an international fashion store and fashion source turned into one. Each month they debut their own online magazine which is filled with colorful spreads, beauty tips, seasonal trends and interviews with Hollywood’s and Britain’s ‘It” girls.  You also have the option to “shop the magazine” so as you flip through you can click on any product you like and it instantly takes you to your product of choice. It’s highly addictive, and I anxiously await it every month.  Kaya/Effy was the perfect choice for the cover, her character is your typical Catholic school girl, who wears a uniform by day, then sneaks out into very scandalous outfits by night.  Her youthful freckled look get the goth and glam treatment on many an episode.  If you’re looking to tap into your inner teenage rebel, think anything that’s black, studded, or body conscious.

The rocker look has been going strong and now that temperatures are on the rise so are the hemlines.  Just like ubiquitous little black dress, I think ever girl also needs a little black skirt. This metallic silk skirt from ASOS is both flirty but has a bit of an edge to it. Remember you’re looking for something not to wear to the office but something to get into trouble in. The metallic finish is great for nights on the town, and there’s two little pockets in front to hold all your back-up beauty essentials. That black eyeliner isn’t going to apply itself! Check out the rest of the magazine to spin Effy’s bad girl style and be sure to watch SKINS, you’ll thank be later.

Blame the summer I worked at the bank, but I have a serious soft spot for these stuffed leather couches you can find in stately bank lobbies or your grandfather’s study. They’ve got this classically beautiful look, and I love the quilted style and those old fashioned studs along the edges.  So naturally I fell in love with this Tufted Leather sofa upon first sight. I was pleasantly surprised by the low price tag, and it comes in multiple sizes to fit any room. When buying a leather couch, there’s always some pro’s and con’s. Con: You better have air conditioning because you’ll have a tough time de-sticking yourself from the couch after a late-night movie. Pro: They’re a cinch to clean, just a damp cloth and most spills will wipe right off. I’ve lost many a slip cover to accident prone friends with an affinity for red wine. So now that I have my dream couch, I just need to stock up on some Edison light bulbs and my Victorian study look will be complete.

One of my favorites of the collection, are these Scrimshaw coasters. I may have never been a boy scout, but I sure do appreciate a nice sailor knot. I can just picture myself sipping on some Dark and Stormy’s, and polishing off some Lobster Bisque.  This playful set also has a unisex appeal so it would look good in both a bachelor pad or a woman’s stylish studio.  All you need are some anchor themed tumblers, and you’re ready to host a clam bake.

This

It’s true, the gladiator sandal is here to stay, but toned down significantly. You don’t need to look like you’re going into battle to appreciate a little criss-cross style.  This studded pair from J.Crew combines preppy style and downtown edge with a zipper back for extra ankle support. It comes in three different shades of vachetta leather (hence the price tag) to accommodate any number of spring outfit pairings. So if you’re not quite ready for the open-toe bootie sandal trend just yet, stick with this stylish number and let your feet breathe.

That

How could I not love a color called, “Look Rich, Be Cheap“. The color combination of purple and gold is usually only found at high school basketball games and graduation ceremonies, but add some glitter and it somehow works.  Pair any sort of metallic or glitter polish with matte leather sandals, and you’ve got yourself a winning combination. It may not be beach weather yet, but at least your feet are ready for it.

Inspired by his favorite vacation spots like Palm Beach, Big Sur, and Capri, these stylized candles provide a subtle scent to your home. Which will come in handy when my Dad visits soon and I need my place to smell like a vacation spot rather than like someone who cleans only once in awhile.  These candles are just one of the things I love by Jonathan Adler.  Everything he makes is genius from quirky vases, animal lamps, to colorful textiles. His fan base may be largely older women on the Upper West Side, but if you make hashish candles, you’re pretty gangster in my book.

Colorful Ceramics

It happens every time I get an Anthropologie catalog in the mail, their lush settings an beautiful photography make me want to escape into their artfully created dreamworld. Their housewares section is what always blows me away and their new batch of ceramics did not disappoint. As soon as I laid my eyes on this earthenware pot, I knew it would be coming home with me.  Its sunny yellow color is just what my place needed to usher in the spring season. And I love the jungle leaf pattern that’s carved into the design.  Now if only choosing its new plant inhabitant would be as easy.

Iron Clad Accents

If you really want your houseplants to prosper you gotta give them room to grow. These wrought iron tote shaped planters are the perfect upgrade for a sprawling plant. They come in a variety of sizes so you can use them for all your indoor gardening needs, whether it’s to display a bouquet, or plant some spring bulbs. And their handles make them perfectly mobile to suit your picky decorating schemes. They’re just one of the many options that online gardening headquarters, Yardiac, offers. It’s a great start if you’re a beginner like me, whose previous gardening knowledge consisted of , “water it so it doesn’t die”, and that’s about it.  Happy Planting!.

But as part of my greater Spring cleaning effort, I decided to ditch the duds and treat myself to some fancy lingerie. I also have officially sworn off push-up bras, since they’re usually ill-fitting and feel silly after the age of 25 (or 18, looking back).  After a couple hours of “product research”, I’ve found some great go-to brands and styles for a lingerie upgrade.

Bodas

This sheer tactel bra from Bodas feels like a second skin and appears seamless enough to wear under anything. Its sheer design gives it a sexy appeal without all the unnecessary bells and whistles. Plus you never have to worry about uncomfortable underwire and straps digging into your skin by the end of the day and leaving some not so attractive marks.  And it’s invisible under those sheer blouses that everybody’s sporting these days. Who wants to have to wear a slip or cami under everything, this isn’t 1950.

Eberjey

If you’re also looking to phase out your padded bras, the bralette is the perfect alternative. Its stretchy fabric still provides support but it’s thin enough to make you forget you’re wearing a bra in the first place. Which is, let’s admit, our ultimate goal. This Sienna bralette from Eberjey is great for its chic lace design and budget price tag. They consistently made high quality lingerie that’s still comfortable enough for everyday.

Elle Macpherson Intimates

I can’t guarantee that this bra will make you look like a supermodel but it will definitely make you feel like one.  This contour bra from Elle Macpherson Intimates is the most structured out of the three but still feels more delicate than padded armor. It combines thin lining with a lace overlay for that perfect happy medium between bralettes and push-ups. I also love the nude color which looks great on any skin tone. This one gets high marks for both fit, style, and support.

And most importantly, if you’re going to buy nice bras and underwear be sure to wash them in a lingerie bag to make them last. You don’t want to ruin all your intimates with just one deadly wash cycle!

Military Jacket

Blame the nineties revival or my penchant for army/navy stores but I’ve emailed myself like 10 military jackets at this point.  It’s insane how many jackets I own. It’s like I need one for every color combination and temperature variable. Not that any of them are actually warm, but I love them all just the same. This one from Tommy Hilfiger has been leading the pack though. I love its loose European cut.

Shiny is Good

I have a weird relationship with jewelry. It’s something I almost never buy and I always forget to put it on before I leave the house. Most of the stuff I own is passed down from my grandmother, who’s collection is almost of Elizabeth Taylor proportions. I usually wear the same simple stuff everyday and then it hits me. I become obsessed with a ring or a necklace to the point where you’d think I wear more bling than P.Diddy. (Sorry old 2000’s reference). While crystals aren’t usually part of my style vocabulary, I would wear this Zindra Double Ring from Dannijo every damn day.  It’s pretty without looking too princessy.  The band made of oxidized silver gives it a nice rough around the edges look, and the double band style looks uniquely modern.

Zeus – Say Us

If you’re looking to mix up your playlist a little bit, (give Lady Gaga a rest won’t ya?) I cannot hype the band Zeus enough. Heavy on the Beatles influence in the best possible way, all these gents can sing their asses off and harmonize beautifully with plenty of heavy guitar riffs as well.  They share a label and often the road with fellow Canadian bands Feist and Broken Social Scene. I’ve been playing their new album, Say Us, non-stop. And be sure to check out their quirky music video for the single, Marching Through Your Head.

Bottoms Up

And of course, for my inner child that still has a soft side for cute animal themed items, these mugs make the list.  These upside down animal mugs from Fred Flare make drinking coffee every morning seem more fun and frivolous then necessary and habitual. I mean just look at them, you can just feel yourself saying “Awww” silently to yourself. When flipped drinking side up, their little ears act as stands and then after your done, flip them back over for continuing cuteness. Stay tuned for future wishlist ramblings.

While her style could be very masculine she always looked refined. Not bad for someone who grew up an orphan and created her own empire. Like so many Parisian women, she had her effortless style staples, which were anything but basic once given the Chanel touch. She really did exemplify the style concept of taking something simple and making it your own.  So if your taste leans more classic than trendy today, gone tomorrow.  This film is chocked full of inspiration for even day to day looks.

Striped Tee

They come in all varying styles and colors but you can’t deny the staying power of the classic striped tee. I would say about 60% of my closet is striped something, so I have to admit I’m partial. They’re just so fresh and French looking. No need to add a beret that would be overkill, but style it with some dark denim or cropped trousers for the complete look. I’ve already started stockpiling some new ones for spring.

Fancy PJ’s

I’m feeling sleepy just looking at these piped pajamas, and I mean that in a good way. The only sleepwear that gets use at my apartment is a pair of well worn sweatpants. But leave it to Coco to rock the most luxe looking pajamas I’ve ever seen.  This silk piped version from Tuttle looks remarkably similar to the ones in the movie. Now if only they came with a butler bell and a cigarette holder, then Sundays in bed would never be the same.

Pearl Necklace

And here we have a photo of the real Coco, who obviously had a real love affair with pearls. Pearl necklaces are kind of a funny accessory. I always feel like you have to be a certain age to wear “real” pearls and anytime I’ve attempted to wear them, I feel like a little girl playing dress-up. But with costume jewelry, you don’t have to worry about carrying your whole paycheck around your neck. And feel free to apply perfume liberally, these babies aren’t going to turn crazy colors if you do. This Kate Spade necklace really won me over with it’s cute little bow, which makes it look less matronly. Oh Coco, you’ve taught me so much.

Known for their whimsical printed melamine patterns, French Bull features a whole line of serveware, tableware and even picnic sets. Their new spring line makes me want to throw a garden party in my non-existent garden.  Their printed serving sets are both design conscious, incredibly affordable, and easy to clean after your party is over.  They’re great for salad tossing or serving desserts. The best part about melamine is, it’s more resistant to absorbing food and liquid so you can use them over and over again. Say adios to those stuffy silver hostess sets. Check out the rest of French Bull’s collection for everything from blankets, laptop cases, and even kid’s stuff.

Splurge

This Orrefors Glass Decanter would even make Don Draper proud. It makes me feel like I’m a cutthroat business executive looking to savor a strong cocktail at the end of the day.  Made of sturdy crystal, and a hand cut grid pattern, it makes for a stylish centerpiece for my fledgling home bar. Add a pair of Old Fashioned glasses and it’s bottoms up.

Steal

If you’re a fan of the retro look but not the wedding registry price tag, this decanter from Pier 1 has the same classic appeal for less than $20!.  Being an avid collector of old perfume bottles I naturally gravitated to the ball stopper style. This is a great alternative if you’re looking for something less Michael Douglas circa Wall Street. With all this talk of cocktails, I thought I’d share one of my favorites. It’s easy to make and turns  cheap vodka into the nectar of the gods.

Earl Grey Infused Vodka
5 Earl Grey Tea Bags
1 liter of Vodka
Newman’s Lemonade (or brand of your choice)

Place the teabags into the vodka and leave it in for 4 and a half hours. Remove the bags, and mix with Lemonade and ice. Voila!

Concealer

It’s a fact, most of us don’t get enough sleep, myself very much included, but that doesn’t mean our late nights have to show up on our face. Under circles are a troublesome problem for everyone young and old, and the easiest way to give your appearance an instant pick-me up is under eye concealer. Being fair skinned, dark areas show up that much more on my skin but now I have a secret weapon. Amazing Concealer to Go from Sephora. It packs quite a punch even using very small amounts. It comes in every skin tone and covers up dark circles flawlessly without looking caked on. You can build the type of coverage you want and it also works for blemishes. If they every discontinue this product, I will picket outside of Sephora.

Face Wash

You’re probably thinking to yourself 50 bucks for a cleanser, has she drank the Kool-aid and fallen off the deep end?  And I understand it sounds ridiculous. I’ve been using drugstore face wash for years and it dries out my skin every time.  With the exception of Cetaphil. But I digress. The only way your skin will survive this winter is exfoliation.  If you’ve got sensitive skin like myself those microbeads or apricot seeds or whatever they call them tends to be a little harsh. That’s why this rice-based microfoliant from Dermalogica works so well. A got a bottle of this stuff in a gift bag and have been hooked every since. It really does last a long time, you only need a thumb size worth of this powder and it turns into some magical cleansing paste that instantly brightens your complexion. I would honestly testify in court on the effectiveness of this stuff. If you want to try it out first, it also comes in travel size. Even my Mom uses it, and you know what they say, Mother knows best.

Foundation

I first discovered Kevyn Aucoin products when I saw his amazing celebrity transformations in a magazine from his book Making Faces. He transformed celebrities into old Hollywood icons and even made over his family and friends.  He seemed to have a real grasp on what worked for everyday women. So naturally when his cosmetics line came out I wanted to give it go. And I was not disappointed. His soy-based foundation feels like a second skin. It has great coverage and has that “dewy” finish you always ready about in lady mags. A close runner-up is Stila’s Illuminating Liquid Foundation.  It’s also great for winter because it has a moisturizer and highlighter built in. Plus it never gets greasy and makes your skin look like it’s been Photo-Shopped in person.

Moisturizer

At one of my old beauty writing gigs I was given a free jar of some pretty pricey moisturizer. It was actually made by a vineyard, cost over $100 and came in a fancy ceramic jar. It looked quite out of place next to the rest of bargain basement beauty buys. I stretched out this lotion for a year, it was like caviar in a jar and I swore I would never find anything like it again. Until now, with Yes to Carrots Moisturizing Day Cream. It was an impulse buy at the drugstore and now I keep it stocked at all times. I always knew carrots were good for your eyesight and if you ate too many of them, your skin looks like it’s been hitting the electric beach too many times, but man it works wonders for your skin too. Its rich formula keeps skin hydrated all day and never gets oily or starts to flake. It’s that perfect combination that keeps me coming back every time.

Hearts are all fine and dandy, but this symbolic infinity symbol bracelet goes a whole lot deeper. Made with sterling silver and red suede, this simple yet beautiful bracelet is to give to someone who’s in it for the long haul.  It’s a great way to say something big, with something so small.

For something on the lighter side, these hilarious charm necklaces from Refinery 29, are perfect for newbie relationships. Each one is printed with a cute saying and even some a bit on the naughty side.  From sweet sentiments like “With Love” to more cheekier statements (literally) like “Wonder Buns”. If she’s got a sense of humor and a great sense of style, these pendants can do no wrong.

Yes I know, another bracelet but it’s not my fault that bangles are the hottest thing since sliced bread this season. Plus this bow bracelet by Kate Spade is so cute can you blame me? It also has a hidden engraving on the inside that says “all wrapped up”. This flirty bracelet is great alternative to giving lingerie. You know it will fit, and you don’t have to contemplate cup size with a random sales assistant. I’d say it’s a win, win.

I love the idea of stacking rings because it feels like you get multiple gifts in one.  These handmade rings from Kevia come in a set of six and you can choose between a set of sterling silver or mixed metals. I love the versatility of this style so you can wear a simple band or stack them as high as you please. Just be sure when wrapping up a ring, to put it in a mini bag and not a velvet box, you don’t want to give people the wrong idea!

Joining the ranks with other beloved brands like Rachel Comey, Steven Alan, and Charlotte Ronson, Sunshine and Shadow brings their unique geometric shapes and pop-art palette to the mainstream. Featuring little mini dresses, silk skirts and even a jumper,  each design uses luxe fabrics at a fraction of what their original line costs. It’s a great way to rock a print if you’re not into this spring’s floral explosion.  For something from their original line, this silk print tank is perfect for layering under blazers.  Be sure to checkout their Spring Lookbook for extra eye candy.

Incase makes sleek, practically bulletproof, colorful laptop and all kinds of gadget cases.  I got their hardshell version, but it also comes in neoprene, that stretchy fabric used for wetsuits. It clips on easily into place and prevents my computer from getting scratched, spilled on, and prevents overall wear and tear. They also feature amazing collaborations with different artists that are ongoing.  My favorite is with illustrator Steve Harrington, presented by Arkitip magazine.

Not all laptop bags have to scream “I’m a professional lady leave me alone I’m working”.  It’s time to step away from those black nylon messenger bags that look like they’re straight out of an IBM recruiting video circa 1995. For something that will also protect your laptop, but can also be used as an everyday bag, leave it to the lady of professional chic, Kate Spade. The handles are long enough on this tote so it doesn’t feel constricting, and the quilted design is perfect for toting your gadgets.  And it’s candy-pink color is sure to lift your spirits come Monday.

Clockwise: ASOS Clint Worker Boot, Chelsea Crew Ankle boot, Frye Erin Boot

While you may not be ready to pull out your old Dr Martens out of storage just yet, the worker boot trend comes in many forms. And the best thing about all of them is, they’ll last you all the way through winter AND the one after that.

I felt a little juvenile after lusting for these worker boots from ASOS when I learned that none other than Little J, aka Taylor Momsen from Gossip Girl was snapped wearing them. Everyone’s been a little nostalgic for grunge lately, and Ms.Momsen is only adding fuel to the fire.

For a more girly twist on the trend, this lace-up ankle boot from Piperlime is a great interpretation. With a stacked heel and some fancy brass closures, it’s more first date than hauling lumber. Or maybe both!

A great unisex look, these lace-up leather ones from Frye are perfect for the girl who likes to steal shirts from her boyfriend. Made with premium leather and suede detailing, they go great with some rolled jeans or a faded dress. They also come in this creamy caramel color to help your transition into your spring wardrobe.

There’s nothing worse then after a long trip, trying to track down your nondescript black suitcase at baggage claim.  Whoever designed black rolling luggage must be raking it in right now, because that’s all you see these days. So when I eyed this coordinating set from TravelGirl, it was like a breath of fresh air.  This 6-piece set has everything you need for any trip. Whether it’s a lightweight duffel for a weekend jaunt, or a rolling duffel for jetsetting, there’s a bag for everything.  So no more exploding lotions or wet laundry ruining your travel plans. Plus you’ll be sure to spot your suitcase from across the terminal!

Continuing the trend of packing with prints, is one of my favorite accessory brands, Lesportsac. I don’t know any other brand that updates their pattern choices more often then these guys. I swear every 3 months and I see another cheerful print popping up on the street. And since I already have one of their wallets,  a wristlet, and a backpack, I might as well add some luggage to the mix. This wheeled carry-on is the perfect size for over-packers like myself who like a lot of storage room, but don’t want to pay the extra $20 to check a bag. I’ve come close to missing numerous flights because the bag check line was almost the length of the terminal.  This bag will ensure fuss-free flying in style.

While the beret has been in vogue now for oh, centuries, this slouchy knit version from Fossil has the same French feel with a modern twist.  It’s colorful stretch design suits most, especially for people like me with have trouble with fitted hats. And it’s a total bargain so feel free to stock up. Just tell yourself you’re being practical.

I’m normally not much of a brand loyalist, but I’ve finally given in to my Eugenia Kim addiction. As an accidental hat maker, Eugenia is single-handedly reviving the millinery business. Celebrties and boutiques alike clamor for her cold-weather creations.  They can get pricey, but these hats are handcrafted out of Alpaca wool and well worth the investment. This cable-knit cap is one of my favorites for it’s military look and the extra sunshade it provides. Snatch one up for yourself at nearly half the price and be the envy of all your friends.

This fringed scarf from Love Quotes is the perfect length for draping over basic tees and flowy dresses. It’s a big hit among the Hollywood It Girl list, being spotted on Rachel Bilson, Hillary Duff, and Nicky Hilton. And it comes in tons of colors, so you’re sure to stand out in a sea of grey and black.

Seeing Double

I’ve lusted after ANYTHING Missoni for while now, but could never muster up the funds for their fine Italian wares.  Their signature zig-zag pattern can be seen on dresses, accessories and their especially drool worth housewares line.  It epitomizes both bohemian chic and Italian flair for color.

So while I won’t be splurging on their scarf just yet, this playful zig-zag scarf from Alloy is just the thing to satisfy my designer yearnings.  Its pattern is spot on, and it’s made with thick knit, so my neck won’t suffer from my sartorial choices. Plus it’s less than $20!, so I can use all that money I saved for my future Italian vacation. Arrivederci!

One of their most popular products, the Expedit Bookcase is by far their most versatile product. It can be customized in many ways to fit your organizational needs. It can act as a room divider for a large living room space, a craft headquarters, media center, and an art display. Just a quick search on Flickr, and you’re sure to be inspired by the different ways people use the Expedit.

Figur Rug, Blomster Vase, Klippan Loveseat

One of my favorite things about going to the Ikea store, is not the showroom, but the housewares section filled with all sorts of colorful odds and ends. Their textile collection changes all the time and one of the newest editions is the Figur Rug.  The colors are rich but the pattern is modern. You could have the beige-iest house on the block, stick this in your living room, and you wouldn’t have to paint a single wall. Its sort of Austin Powers meets Jonathan Adler.

I’m not much of a green thumb, but that doesn’t mean I don’t appreciate some flora and fauna around my home.  I love this glass Blomster vase because of it’s sleek shape and cute printed pattern. Flowers are feminine enough without displaying them in some girly vase with floral patterns all over it.

When I first moved into my new apartment, one of the purchases I put off for the longest was the couch. We needed one badly, having finally evolved past our dorm style futon, but man are they expensive.  And they tend to run on the larger size. With square footage being limited, I wanted to find a cute loveseat big enough for two people. While some of the couches from Ikea were a little too simple for my taste, the Klippan series offers up a wide variety of slipcover options for pickier people like me. And the sticker price was shocking, in a good way.  Now we can actually watch movies together rather than separately on some hand-me down chairs.

Just because you don’t own a Harley doesn’t mean you can’t rock some serious leather gloves.  Studs have been popping up on everything this year from bags, to shoes, to even jeans for that irresistible rocker cool.  Made with 100 percent lambskin leather, these gloves ate both warm and stretchy, so you can continue to stay glued to your Blackberry.

Color Theory

Martin + Osa Cashmere Glove,  J.Crew Cashmere-Lined Leather Gloves

I like black coats because they go with everything, but sometimes after I’m all bundled up with my black boots and black purse, I look like I’m headed to a funeral. Instantly brighten up your look with these colorful gloves.  This long cashmere set from Martin & Osa are great for those 3/4 length sleeve coats that were so popular this year. For something a little more luxe, I love these cashmere-lined leather gloves from J.Crew. Not only are they irresistably warm, but they come in every color in the rainbow to boot. I’ll take all six please!

The biggest advantage a cast iron pan has, is it’s ability to store flavor. Every time you cook something, its flavor seeps into the pan. And the more you cook with it, the more layers of flavor it retains. And since you’re not supposed to wash them with soap, you’ll never have dish detergent becoming an ingredient in your next recipe.  As an added bonus, these pans come pre-seasoned to kick start all your culinary conquests. First up, skillet pizza!

From left to right: Ashton Sutton Clock, Kikkerland Will Return Clock, Nextime Glass Record Clock

For those who like the art deco look, these cool sunburst style clocks were hugely popular in the Fifties, but still have a classic appeal.  I like this one from Ashton Sutton for it’s spot-on retro design, and wallet friendly price.

Looking to spice up the kitchen? This cafe clock reminds me of what you see in the window of local luncheonettes.  But unlike those cardboard copies, this one actually keeps time. Although you can still pretend you’re “on break” every time you peek at it.

As a  music lover,  this old record clock fit in perfectly with the rest of my vinyl collection. Luckily it’s made of glass, since I know how unreliable real vinyl can be.  And it features a cute printed saying “Spinning Time”, which will be my new excuse when I’m late again.

Jewel Tones

Ah I am such a sucker for purple. It may not go with all skin tones, but it makes me feel like a million bucks. After all it is the color of royalty. Jewel tones are been going strong since the holiday season usually popping up in satin cocktail dresses and party shoes. The problem is, satin is not very forgiving on curves, so unless you’ve already worked off your post holiday weight,  I suggest the more forgiving silhouette of this silk and chiffon tie waist number.  It’s tailored enough for work, but fun enough for going out on the town. Just add some textured tights and you’re ready to go.

Nautical

Who says you can only wear nautical pieces during the summer? French women do it year round and call it “classic”.  I can never own enough striped pieces so naturally I made a beeline for this Breton knit dress from Topshop. If you’re unfamiliar with the term Breton, this stripe styled originates from the Brittany province in France. A coastal area of course!  Top this with a classic blazer and you’re ready for an afternoon of croissants and long walks.

Pretty Prints

I’ve professed my love for prints before, and I’ll say it again.  They never go out of style and every season someone declares that “prints are back!”.  While I’ll have to settle for window shopping with the masters of print like DVF, and Marc Jacobs, I can always rely on French Connection to bring the runway to reality. Combining the one-shoulder trend and abstract print, this polka dot dress really caught my eye.  And for being almost half off , it may even go home with me. Florals may be too spring, but geometric shapes are street chic year-round.

Arc Lamps are popular for their versatility and dramatic flair. Perfect for both reading nooks and dining areas, they take up little space but can light up a whole room. This Arc Lamp from CB2 has both a sleek design and features a dimmer switch on the base, so you can set the mood with just the tap of your foot. And for being just shy of $200, it’s a great deal on a piece of statement furniture.

For something more on the quirky side, I love this Spotlight Floor Lamp from Adesso.  Turn your living room into a sound stage with this antique-looking lamp, reminiscent of the studio lights from old Hollywood.  You could almost mistake it for a sculpture and not just a lamp with it’s unique tripod design. It’s a great home addition for any creative types or wannabe creative types with a flair for drama.

And last but not least, this simple but pefect Kulla standing lamp from Ikea. Where would we be without Ikea? I know my apartment would be half empty still and my credit card bill much more embarassing then it already is.  Even if you’re skeptical about the sturdiness of their bigger furniture items, you gotta hand it to them on their housewares section. This lamp is one of the best things I ever bought. It’s sleek, goes with everything, and features a little extension bar that dims the light to three different settings with the slightest touch. It’s also survived many moves and still doesn’t have a scratch on it. It comes in white and black and fits perfectly into any corner, just dying to be flipped on.

If you’re still using your old beat-up blanket, it’s time to upgrade to a duvet this winter. It will change your life I swear. And if you’re allergic to down, which a lot of people surprisingly are,  Bed Bath & Beyond makes fantastic hypo-allergenic synthetic comforters for way less than the real deal with the same weight and softness.

Leaning towards a more simple look, I’m a big fan of Unison’s geometric design from 2Modern. My bedroom tends to be the place where all the clutter gets dumped, so even when I just make the bed, the room automatically looks put together. You can always punch up the look with some cool accent pillows, which let’s face it, ladies have a tendency to accumulate.  It’s like the shoes of home design, you can never have too many.

And for the romantic set, nothing feels and looks more welcoming then this pin-tuck cover from West Elm. Made of organic cotton, this cover can turn any bed into an old world sanctuary.  You may be too old for a princess bed, but pair it with a wrought iron bed frame and it will make you feel like you wake up in a Victorian novel every day.

Being that the space is mostly beige, I wanted to steer clear of the more traditional window treatments and look for something with a punch of color. Usually my go-to’s are Urban Outfitters and Anthropologie for the younger urban set, but the boyfriend wasn’t feeling the feminine and flowery patterns. We even made a field trip to fabric store mecca Mood, made famous by Project Runway, but were completely overwhelmed. After a lot of head scratching and pattern overload, we decided to go the DIY route and use a shower curtain as a window curtain.

It’s sounds a lot crazier than it looks. A lot of shower curtains these days are made out of canvas or cloth rather than flimsy plastic, so it won’t look like we’re trying to storm proof our windows. I love the playful illustrations on this curtain from CB2. You just cut it in half, hem the top if you don’t like the grommet style, and viola!, new curtains. And so as not to go overboard on prints, I’m going with some flowy sheer curtains from West Elm, great for those lazy Sunday mornings.

Classic and chic, the navy Asiri gives us the impression it would feel at home draped over the shoulders of an impeccably garbed ski bunny warming by the fire in a Swiss chalet.  But our couch could use some waffle knit love, too.  Looks aren’t everything as the cashmere option is soft enough to send last year’s Snuggie into early retirement.   If we weren’t already smitten, the sumptuous bundle uniquely rolls away into its sturdy leather holster – equal parts rugged and refined.  Adjustable black leather straps provide the stylish mode of transport that only a $475 blanket deserves.  Impressively impractical, the holster seems to serve more as a blanket accessory than protective case for the pricey cover-up, but the look is really working for us.  Best of all, since things soft are universally adored, the Asiri is a perfect gift for that last guy and girl on our list – should we feel inclined to share the warmth.

This badass is rocking the Jack Sparrow look full on. If you see him hanging around on October 31, you should buy this dude a drink or some bird seed for his parrot (not pictured).

Stay away from this man. If he offers you anything, call the cops.

Go ahead, turn to the dark side. Bust out a little early 80’s* nostalgia with this two piece Darth Vader mask. Forget those Transformers nerds and their crappy sequel.

Darth Vader 2 Piece Costume Mask, $14 to 61 plus tax and shipping

* We’re still refusing to acknowledge any crappy Star Wars movies that came out after 1983.

We realize its perhaps a little early for Halloween costumes, but lets be honest — you could dress your dog up like this every day of the year and it would never get old. Maybe a little smelly.

Zack & Zoey Monkey Costume, $17.77 plus tax and shipping.

Pronto Style

Pronto Style brings you the latest fashions from top brands and stores at the best prices. Find discounts of up to 75% from top online stores such as Bloomingdales.com, Shopbop.com and more.

Pronto Style is crazy about fashion. Whether is the latest designer handbags or the perfect summer dress, you’ll find them all in one great place. Find the latest clothing and shoes for women and men plus all the right accessories including jewelry, watches, belts, designer sunglasses and more. Shop what’s always hot. Check out the latest dresses on sale!

Pronto Home

Redesigning the kitchen or checking prices on furniture? Pronto Home is your new destination for all things home and garden. Find all the top home and garden products from stores like Crate & Barrel, Herman Miller, West Elm, Target and much more.

Compare prices on home appliances, see hundreds of couches and sofas, or find the perfect bathroom light fixture all in one place.  What’s great for summer? Check out the incredible new barbeque grills from Weber, complete with all the must-have features for cooking the perfect steaks.

Pronto Tech

Get serious about your gadgets at Pronto Tech. Get great discounts and prices on the latest large-screen TVs, laptop computers, netbooks and other hot items. Top categories include digital cameras, laptops, MP3 players, GPS systems, and Wii games and all feature items on sale from top stores online.

Why shop one online store for your next LCD TV when you can shop all of them? Browse by your favorite electronics brands, check out the latest video games and more!

We’re wrapping up our TOMS Shoes Wrap Boots giveaway tomorrow at 5:00 PM EST!  Enter the contest now!

Best Buy recommends rocks speakers as one of the best Dad’s Day gifts this season (don’t forget! June 21st!), and we totally agree. The perfectly camouflaged wireless speakers are a great addition to any backyard barbeque! Check out Pronto’s array of colors and sizes – there are enough to beat out your childhood rock collection. And way less heavy, too.

Shop Rock Speakers here

and more Father’s Day ideas here

A strappy wedge is the perfect shoe to take you from Spring to Summer and on to Fall. The sturdy wedge makes them comfortable for everyday wear, and the strappy details can work work for day or night. We just bought the Aldo pair at right (they’re on sale!) and they’re perfection.

And if you’re up for a splurge, don’t forget this similar style by Chloe!

Aldo Maune Shoes, $140 $99

Bronx Shani Wedge, $149

June 3rd is National Running Day so get your summer off to a healthy start with a scenic jog or some treadill time. And some new stylish workout gear can go a long way for motivation! We’re really into the sexy yet practical Nike ‘Flirty’ Sports Bra – it’s sturdy enough to support but the delicate colors and thinner straps could definitely give you a jumpstart on that summer romance!

Under Armour Jacket

Nike Flirty Seamless Sports Bra

Under Armour Shorts

Add a little glamour to a dull room with this long hanging lamp from West Elm. The sea-side inspired piece is affordable @ $259 and can brighten up a room in seconds!

Spring nail colors are in and we love NARS blue lagoon shade! Gorgeous, fun, and perfect for a day in the sun! Get this limited edition nail polish now!

We love tie dye and comfort and we found both wrapped up into one pair of amazing TOMS shoes! 

Don’t forget to check out our giveaway with TOMS shoes vegan wrap boots! 

Simply style an outfit on Pronto.com and enter to win!

The “IT shoe” of the season is now on sale!!

We’re pretty excited about this weeks music releases! Phoenix, Manson, and Grizzly Bear? Yes please!. Even Mandy Moore’s new album is a contender. Her new, mature, adult contemporary vibe is a welcomed distraction from her bubble gum pop days. Give it a listen!

Whose album are you listening to right now?

Marilyn Manson – The High End of Low

Mandy Moore – Amanda Leigh

Grizzly Bear – Vackatimest

Phoenix – Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix

Once you get a little bit of that golden tan there is nothing better than showing it off with a light-colored dress!
Which is why we love this nude tunic by Generra. The circle details are darling and the lightweight cotton dress is easy to throw on and run out the door! Pair with the multi-color heels by Charlotte Russe for the perfect summer look!

The fantastic editors over at She Finds, the go-to site for online finds, have put together a list for Shop Therapy of what they think are this summer’s essential pieces.
1. A maxi dress
The vibrant, flowy look demands flat sandals, so with a no-heels policy, there truly is no option that’s more comfortable.

2. Nude flat sandals
They’ll go with everything in your summer wardrobe, and they’re comfortable to boot.

3. Little black jersey dress
These versatile dresses are easy to wear and effortless to accessorize for day or evening.

4. Sunglasses with personality
Oversized, aviator, ‘80s-style or embellished, find a pair of shades you really love – with any luck, they’ll be by your side for the rest of the season.

5. A summery tote
With its hobo shape (or lack thereof), you can stuff almost anything into American Apparel’s Cotton Canvas Tote.

6. Built-in bra tanks
We like to wear as few layers as possible in the summer – these tanks, like this thick-strapped one – can serve as outerwear and underwear for small- to medium-busted women.

7. Cheap, bright jewelry
Nothing says summer like a colorful, playful bauble you got for less than $30.

8. A straw clutch
Straw is so much more appealing than leather for a summertime going-out bag.

9. A not-quite-one-piece
With more coverage than a bikini but less than a one-piece, various forms of these cutout swimsuits have been showing up at all kinds of high-end and mass-market retailers.

10. A summer hat
With the sun beating down, don’t leave it to your SPF to protect your face and scalp –a cool hat will keep you burn and wrinkle-free through September.

Check out Shefinds.com for daily trends, great finds, and deals!

Style blogger Rumi Neely of Fashion Toast dons her model hat for this months Revolve Clothing Style Guide. She played dress up in some of her (and our) favorites from Revolve like this Blue Life Departure Tee and much much more.

Shop more Revolve Clothing here!

“Picture yourself in a boat on a river…” The Beatles may have had something there. We’ve seen the fedora come and go and the floppy sun hat loitering around, but the new shape in hats is… drumroll please… the boater hat. It’s a classic silhouette, but the mini boater hat from Pixie Market was the first to re-catch our eye, now we can’t stop spotting them on the style-set in the streets.

We love this perfect straw boater hast with grosgrain ribbon from Brooks Brothers & suggest you give this new/old shape a try.

Classic Boater Hat with Grosgrain Ribbon, $148.50 @ Brooks Brothers

Urban Outfitters is having a massive sale on some great inventory! Tons of mens, womens, and home products are marked down to $5 (or less), so it’s the perfect time to stock up on your favorites. We love these Burnout Swirl Tights and at $4.99 we may just get them in both colors. Oh the possibilities…

]]> http://shoptherapy.pronto.com/2009/05/27/urban-on-sale-for-499/feed/ 0 http://shoptherapy.pronto.com/2009/05/26/giveaway-toms-shoes/ http://shoptherapy.pronto.com/2009/05/26/giveaway-toms-shoes/#comments Tue, 26 May 2009 18:44:05 +0000 Jaclyn J http://shoptherapy.pronto.com/?p=3371

One of the lucky ones with a pool this summer? Dress it up with cute pool accessories! We love these nautical beach/swim/pool accessories from Target to give your pool some character or bring to your next pool party. There are tons more pool accessories and pool games on Pronto. Cheap & lots of fun.

Nautical Swim Ring, $9.99

Nautical Beach Ball, $11.99

The perfect gift for the art lover in your life,Graffiti World: Street Art from Five Continents, explores the universal phenomenon of street art and the people behind it. “Though there is still a level of lawlessness involved in some who practice in the traditional way, many of the murals shown are commissioned works of “urban art.” The frequent use of nicknames and disguised photos shows that often these artists are still “underground” even as their art form becomes more recognized.”

We have been looking for a fantastic straw shoe that looks modern and we think Report Signature’s Lucie does the trick! The adorably feminine shoe also comes in a crazy rainbow pattern that would look killer with a LBD this summer!

Save your skin from fake baking & the potential trauma of self-tanners. Go for a brozer that looks natural, offers sun protection, and washes off at the end of the day. Here are a few bronzers by some of our favorite brands to get you started on your summer glow.

MAC ‘Lustre Drops’ Bronzer

Smashbox ‘Photo Finish’ Bronzing Primer

Bobbi Brown All Over Bronzing Gel SPF 15

Clarins ‘Instant Sun Light’ Summer Glow Face Palette SPF 15

Refinery29 inspired us to hunt Pronto.com for an incredible selection of picnicware at equally great prices. Practical folding tables, blankets-in-a-bag, and lots of utilitarian baskets with dinnerware. We suggest you start planning summer picnic asap – we know we are!

Picnic Baskets

Picnic Blankets

Table in a Bag

What are your travel plans this summer?

shop more passport covers here!

Who doesn’t love MIMOBOTS?

MIMOBOT designer USB flash drives are the world’s first character-based USB flash drive collection.

Mimobot and Pronto.com have teamed up to giveaway a MIMOBOT to whoever has the most creative/funny/interesting submission of who they think would be a great person to be MIMOBOT-ized!

(It could be your grandma or the President of the United States!)

Leave your submission in the comments on this post! Winner will be announced  June 5th! Good Luck!

Shop Mimobots

Learn more about Mimoco

Lots of highly anticipated releases this week! From Dane Cook (ok, not really music) to Eminem, May is a big month in music. So whose album is making it into your summer hits rotation?

Dane Cook – ISolated INcident

Eminem – Relapse

Kate Vogele – A Fine Mess

Greenday – 21st Century Breakdown

We love finding great deals! We have been on the hunt for cute and affordable BOHO dresses for summer and we found them at Delias!

The Lanie Halter is light-weight and adorable (Bonus: we spotted a similar dress at a boutique in soho for $200!) and the Valerie Dress which is a gorgeous vintage-style frock are both under $50!

Get them while their hot!

The biggest beach trend this summer may have you wishing you could cover up – but in the best way possible. Beach cover-ups are being upgraded from the average sarong or oversized tee, to detailed tops and tunics. We love these 3 options from Urban Outfitters that could easily work their way into your wardrobe off the beach!

Silence & Noise Peep Back Dolman Top

Silence & Noise Exaggerated Cowl Tunic

Billabong Cross Back Beach Tunic

“It’s probably a given that you’re going to get a lot of looks on your wedding day. And trust me, in all your beauty, there’ll be a lot to look at! There’s nothing plain Jane about these kicks — these picks are so detailed, they’ll knock your socks off. Your shoes, although away from the focus, can still be a highlight of your wedding look. If you’re looking for a way to play up a simpler style you may have chosen for your gown, hair, jewelry and other accessories, don’t exclude your shoes from the running of being your best wedding accompaniment. If not for a short gown and stems to get your feet noticed, these shoes will draw attention to your pretty polished toes even with a sneak glance from under a long, ballroom-style gown. Foot fetishes aside, these bridal shoes will make your feet the most coveted in the room!”

Check out the full slide show of shoes at  StyleHive 

Much like an eclipse, sales at Net-A-Porter are rare and amazing! Start shopping!

The new Nikon CoolPix L100 is more sophisticated than the average point-and-shoot and more compact than a clunky DSLR – and the reviews are great!

Read more & shop here!

“This camera is inexpensive for it’s class, lightweight, has the latest technology, and is extremely beginner- and user-friendly. It is the perfect camera for someone who wants something more than a basic point-and-shoot but doesn’t want to spend the money on an SLR” Amazon.com

“Just the best digital camera I ever bought. Talk about clear pictures and so easy to use, good going Nikon great product…” Amazon.com

“Its a good solid, nice looking camera and feels fantastic in the hand…” Cnet

Nikon CoolPix L100, starting at $250.00

Frederick Fekkai Beach Waves

Ever wonder how celebs get those effortless beach waves? It’s more than just air drying! Check out Frederick Fekkai’s Beach Waves Spray which an exclusive AquaNutrients technology blending marine botanical extracts and sea water that providing conditioning, protection from environmental impurities, and moisture. Also check out Beauty.com’s hair care consultation tool to find out which products are perfect for your hair!

Whilst browsing for our favorite designer, Alexander Wang, we came across the typical providers of goods ( Shopbop, Otte, Oak, etc.) but WAIT! We spotted Bluefly.com offering discount Alexander Wang! We had to share… Enjoy!

Alexander Wang white cotton blend bib front top
Alexander Wang butter crepe pleated front shell
Alexander Wang ivory embossed silk button front top

Shop all Alexander Wang

Etiquette 101 says to always send a handwritten thank you note for every gift you recieve. That goes for you too, grads! We love targets selection of Thank You notes, especially these black & white ones. They are simple, and get the message across. And as always, the prices are great.

shop Thank You notes from Target.com

We love Essie’s new Neon collection is simply awesome. The bright colors will stop people in their tracks just to say “Woah! Cool nails!” And we should know, we’re wearing Funky Limelight right now.

Since nail color trends come and go with the seasons, this mini 4-pack from Nordstrom let’s you try out all the colors for $17. They would make a great gift, too.

Essie Neon Mini 4-pack, $17 Nordstrom

This is a trend that is admittedly difficult to pull-off, but if you’re daring enough to try, there are lots of options out there! The plus side to a manufactured pair of ripped leggings is that they probably won’t continue to shred, and have a cleaner look. If you don’t want to spend a lot on the trend, there always Forever 21, but if you’d rather go the DIY route, all you need is a simple pair of thick black leggings and scissors!

Is this a look you would try? We think it could work for a monochromatic look that is more covered up, paired with some great black boots.

David Lerener Ripped Leggings, $99 on Shopbop

Leyendecker Ripped Leggings, $125 on Shopbob

Cut Out Leggings, $12.80 at Forever 21

Bamboo Towels, from $3.95 at CB2

Shop lots more Bamboo Towels here

By now Baby G watches could be categorized as vintage! We love this slim square watch it has a 90s feel yet a modern design! The Casio Baby G Slim Square watch is only $60 (we think it looks more expensive!). Casio has done a great job at re-creating vintage watch favorites to make them more modern!

Shop more watches

Finding the perfect blush is not as easy as one might think. Which is why we were so excited when we found Allure Magazine’s guide on how to choose and apply the perfect blush!

 Find the guide after the Jump…

Allure Insiders’ Guide: How to Choose and Apply Blush 

Color test. To find the shade that flatters your skin tone, gently pinch your cheeks and match the blush to the color you get. You can also try one that’s half a shade darker than your favorite neutral lipstick. If you have acne or a ruddy complexion, try a tawnier shade so the blush doesn’t call attention to the redness. Either way, shimmery blush almost never looks natural.

Add the cream. I tell novices to start with a cream blush because it goes on sheer and it’s easy to blend. The exception is if you use also a powder foundation or loose powder on your face; always keep makeup textures consistent so they don’t clump.

Fan yourself. Dense brushes—the ones that typically come with blush—are tricky and tend to create a big, sloppy chunk of color in the middle of the cheek. I use a fan brush for both cream and powder formulas. The thin hairs blend color seamlessly.

Product placement. When I’m working on a client, I smile so she’ll smile, which accentuates the best part of the cheeks to apply blush. I put the highest concentration of color just outside the fattest part of the cheeks—not directly under the eyes. You don’t want the concentration of color to be too close to the nose or the temples, because that look screams “too much blush.”

Build it up. The more layers of makeup you wear, the lighter the blush should be. Conversely, if you apply blush to bare skin, it will soak in and be more diffuse, so you may have to use more for the same effect.

Psychoanalyze your friends in this Rorschach inspired Ink Blot tank from Forever 21. It’s easily the most entertaining shirt we own and we’ve found everything from a bear to a spider to Frank the Bunny from Donnie Darko within the graphic.

So what do you see?

Ink Blot tank, Forver 21, $16.90

Jazzi has put together a list of some the best grad gifts under $100! From practical gifts like a set of sheets to more humorous gifts like Dr. Seuss’s “Oh, the Places You’ll Go! ” you can find the perfect gift to show that special student  how proud you are!

The good folks over at Flip continue to take a good thing and make it even better. The new Flip UltraHD is still pocket sized, you-tube ready, and has the easy-to-navigate features we love – but this new camera kicks everything up a notch. The LCD screen is bigger, picture is sharper, sound quality has improved and colors are brighter.

And with perfect timing for summer adventures, we say a big “Thank You, Flip!”

Flip UlraHD camcorder – $199

You know all those wires near your desk that are tangled, wrapped around your computer, and are making your desk look ugly? We found the perfect solution in the USB Tulip hub. Four USB
high-speed ports are included, with red tulips housing each one. Compatible with most USB plugs, for both Mac and Windows systems.One part adorable and another part practical this might be the best $22 you ever spend!

Shop more USB Hubs

Via Stylehive: Is there anything more quintessentially New York chic thanDiane Keaton’s wardrobe in Woody Allen’s classic ode to love, “Annie Hall?” Trailblazing and iconic, Annie Hall’s style wasboyfriend before there was boyfriend: mannish trousers, waistcoats, tailored blouses, bowler hats, wingtip oxfords, and oversize blazers created a look that was part English country gentleman, part West Village bohemian. Even more fashion-forward? The look was pretty much Diane Keaton’s own creation.

According to movie lore, the film’s costumer, Nancy McArdle, was at best dubious about how Keaton’s look would appeal to moviegoers but at Woody Allen’s vehement insistence, Diane’s quirky, personal fashion sense was allowed to remain and become Annie’s own. McArdle worked closely with another fashion icon, Ralph Lauren, to design the costumes, including Annie’s signature polka-dot tie. Thus, fashion inspiration for the ages was born. 

Read the rest of the post and how to get the look over at Stylehive

Looking for an inexpensive way to say you care? Look no further than a digital picture frame keychain! This is the perfect gift for your mom, dad, boyfriend, girlfriend- it’s actually great for everyone! Prices range from around $9- $39 depending on size and quality. So if you find yourself stumped for gift ideas often, be sure to pick a few of these ups!

Silk Scarves have been a mainstay in fashion since the 50s! Whether tied around your neck or tied in your hair these scarves add the perfect amount of style to any outfit! Get the scarves from left to right ( all under $40): Green, Yellow, Red, Blue Paisley!

Here’s how our editors wear their head scarves:
1. Fold scarf diagonally in half so it forms a triangle
2. Roll the scarf from the point to the longer side of the triangle in one- inch sections
3. Grab the two ends, flip your hair over and place center of the rolled scarf at the nape of the neck and then flip hair back.
4. Lift the two ends upwards and wrap around the top of head till the two ends meet at the nape of the neck
5. Tie Knot.

A friend of mine pointed out some wood wallpaper at a restaurant we went to last week and we both gushed over how fantastic that would be in our cramped studio apartments. Imagine waking up and being surrounded by trees (in NYC no less!). We found some fantastic wood wallpapers @ Pronto in light shades, medium rugged shades, and darker shades!

Get shopping now for dresses under $50 

Top-siders, a brand of casual shoe with a nonskid sole, initially for wear on boats, are making a comeback in a big way! City dwellers are switching out their beat up Converses for these fun, preppy and summery shoes. Once a typically male shoe, Sperry (the ultimate purveyor of Top-Siders) has created lots of great styles for women as well!

Shop Top-Siders for Men
Shop Top-Sider for Women

Start shopping Shopbop now!

What is more fun than a night of karaoke with friends? Nothing! Talk about the perfect gift for pretty much anyone, even the shy songstress. The perfect ice breaker and entertainment when you have a group of friends over, we say get the singing machine for mom for Mother’s Day, Dad for Father’s day, or even you favorite GRAD!

Well we found the perfect alternative in this dark denim military style jacket from Betsey Johnson.

The jacket has the perfect amount of button detail and a gorgeous triangle hem. Find it on sale at Zappos!

Shop more military jackets.

Tuxedo night shirts inspired by classic menswear combined with a feminine twist are the most adorable way to hit the hay!
Our favorites are the Calida Mix and Match Tuxedo Front Night Shirt and Natori’s Women’s Pajama Cassandra Sleepshirt. These are also perfect for lounging around the house on a gloomy day ( like today).
Shop more pajamas

Sunglasses are one of those things that you can never find when you are looking! Well lucky for you our editors put together a roundup of over 30 styles of sunglasses for the summer. Ranging from $10 to $300 we chose what we think are the most stylish and fun sunglasses on the market! Enjoy!

Kingston Rossdale, watch out! Your kid could be the next Mozart, Louis Armstrong, or Flea (or at the least be that much better at Rock Band when it’s time to graduate) with these awesome baby instruments. These are so adorable you could get them all and have baby jam sessions in your living room (Advil not included).

Check out my Kids Bop list here!

Styrofoam, paper, and plastic can’t outshine bamboo. Besides just looking better, bamboo dinnerware is reusable, biodegradable, contains no dyes, and won’t buckle, bend, or break!

All-Occasion Veneerware Bamboo Plates, $10 amazon.com

The one on the left is $19.99 and part of Target’s Mossimo collection! The suede flap and fringe hobo is a steal!

The bag on the right is the Botkier Morgan Hobo Handbag ( A big hit last Fall so much so that the purple has sold out and it is only available in Black and Yellow!)

Shop More Fringe Handbags

We loved the ruffled Christian Louboutin footwear on the Phillip Lim catwalk, loved it equally so when Britney Spear’s sported them throughout her “If U Seek Amy” video. Now a new crop of frilly footwear is popping up for Spring/Summer from casual sandals to evening pumps.

Asos Frill Front Pointed Shoe, $70

Pour la Victoire Zipper Frill Sandal, $198

Shop Bloomingdales for Mother’s Day and get $25 off select items!

We’ve fallen head over heels for MAC’s new summer glosses. The color is sheer, the gloss isn’t too sticky, and it stays on for hours! There’s an extra dose of shimmer added (or “dazzle”) that we were scared of at first, but once on, it really gives your lips new dimension in the light!

Try MAC Dazzleglass Lipgloss – $18, Nordstrom

We sent out our Editors to find the best gifts under $150 for this Mother’s Day!

Here is what they found:

When shopping for Mother’s Day gifts, it’s easy to assume that shelling out cash means showing you care.  Regardless of price, Mother’s Day is really all about being thoughtful. Whether you spend $20 s on a Savannah glass jar candle or $50 on a jewelry box ,  pick a gift that’s memorable. If you’re not sure, start finding things that remind you of her, that should set you on the right track!

So you’ve got a few bucks in your pocket and want to show your Mom how much you care. You’re thinking of doing something a little more extravagant, but you’re not sure what? When in doubt, you can always fall back on the classics, like Williams-Sonoma plate sets, Patricia Green slippers  or any cookbook by Martha Stewart. However, if she’s a little less than domestic, why not give her a colorful scarf from Spiegel, or a versatile Nine West bag.

 If you want to do something a bit more expensive, it’s impossible to go wrong with a silver bangle, an Ann Klein watch or a Kate Spade clutch.  However if you want to take a bit of a chance, you might consider giving her an iPod Nano, a colorful Samsung digital camera, or even a pocket organizer. She may stubbornly insist she doesn’t need it and refuse to buy it for herself, but if you buy it for her … that’s a whole different story! 

With the incredible, warm weather lately, all I can think of is how much I want to go to the the beach! While I can’t afford a tropical getaway, these brightly colored, tropical themed beach towels, feel like the next best thing!

Shop more Bed Bath and Beyond Towel

Shop More Beach Towels

See my Beach Must Haves

Above are some of our favorite picks (from left to right)

Elizabeth and James Bubble Shorts

Elizabeth and James Riviera Short 

Bubble Shorts

Catherine Malandrino Women’s Bubble Shorts with Tie Waist

And your frosty beverages have to stay cold in an ordinary cooler!

Shop more body lotions

A wise woman once said, “Even as fickle as women can be … they will never tire of flowers.” But what kind of flowers, you ask? If your overwhelmed by the vast varieties of arrangements, look no further FTD and Vera Wang have teamed up to create the crème de la crème in designer floral arrangements. Vera, known for her elegant yet vibrant style, applies her magic touch to these incredibly unique arrangements. While the prices are a bit of a splurge, the quality is truly superior … plus she may even throw in a perfume bottle for good measure!
Shop more FTD Flowers

See my Mother’s Day Gift Guide

See my favorite Mother’s Day Flowers

Our editors think that bowties (and prep in general) are going to be big trends for men this Spring and Summer.

Think LL Bean circa 1990- khakis, bow ties, seersucker and the like. No more grungy hipsters!  

Get this black/white fine pinstripe bowtie shirt at OAK NYC

and shop more bowties 

The heat waves are just around the corner and sometimes blasting the A/C is just not enough! Why not get the adorable Minka rotating retro fans for around $50. Perch it up on your kitchen counter or next to your bed and beat the summer heat in style.

Thank goodness it’s finally spring. Even if you don’t have a garden, you can enjoy a small piece of spring with Crate and Barrel and CB2’s one-stem and hanging vases. They’ll all cost you less than $10 dollars and will lift your spirits on those days when you need to work inside, but really want to be outside!

Shop More Crate and Barrel Vases

Shop More Vases

See my favorite Spring Vases

Shop Bloomingdales now!

The look works for day or night, and the Asos Washed Twill Pencil Peplum skirt at right would be awesome for a day at the office.

Can you believe these are from Forever 21? They have really upped the ante on their handbag collections. I fell in love with all four of these handbags before seeing the price.

And, I ask when are you ever going to find a handbag you love that is also at a price that makes you smile? Rarely Ever! Get to it.

It is almost over, but April is the month that we get little glimpses of the summer sunshine to come, rudely interrupted by bouts of rain and thunder. If you, like me, never have an umbrella when you need one, check out these umbrellas that are so cute, you won’t forget them at home after the jump.

1. Totes Elements Clear Bubble Umbrella

2. MoMa Mini Sky Umbrella

3. Totes Stripe Jumbo Umbrella

4. Multi-colored Swirl Umbrella

5. Red Folding Handle Umbrella

shop more umbrellas here

You probably know the dryer sheet trick to eliminate hair-frizz but have you seen these Hair Sheets by Ted Gibson?

Aside from just eliminating frizz (though they do that too!) these hair sheets prevent over-drying, get rid of odors, and protect your hair from the sun. Perfect for traveling, camping, festivals, post-workout, or for those mornings when there is just no time to shampoo, condition, and blow-dry!

Hair Sheets by Ted Gibson, $24.95/box

]]> http://shoptherapy.pronto.com/2009/04/22/hair-saver-ted-gibson-hair-sheet/feed/ 0 http://shoptherapy.pronto.com/2009/04/22/throwback-room-dividers/ http://shoptherapy.pronto.com/2009/04/22/throwback-room-dividers/#comments Wed, 22 Apr 2009 14:11:19 +0000 Jaclyn J http://shoptherapy.pronto.com/?p=3107 These aren’t your grandmother’s room dividers but they may have been inspired by them! These retro room dividers provide the perfect eclectic piece of eye candy for your room. Available at target get the  Jolie Upholstered Screen-Clove, Polly Upholstered Screen-Dove, Canary Upholstered Screen-Tangerine, or  the Canary Upholstered Screen-Robin Egg.

Shop more Room Dividers.

Earth Month is still going strong over here at Pronto.com.
This week’s giveaway is with Modcloth the adorable indie e-store you will fall in love with! You can win You could win this 100% cotton tee by lifetime clothing and this adorable sustainable tote (value $37)!

All you have to do is sign up for twitter follow @prontodotcom and/or @modcloth by April 26th and tweet the following:

(copy + paste)->   #Prontogiveaway with @modcloth ReTweet to Enter! http://bit.ly/K3SKU

Check out our Editor’s picks from Modcloth.com

WINNER JOE SCHMELTZER!!!!

Chester French – Love the Future

Asher Roth – Asleep in the Bread Aisle

This Spring the skinny jeans are coming off and the short cut offs are coming on! The more shredded the better. We love the True Religion Joey shorts with their perfect amount of fringe. However, the American Eagle cut offs are also great and are a less expensive option!

Shop All Cut Offs

Thanks to brands like iSing, Amazon and Hello Kitty, Technology just got a whole lot more girly. Now, girls can record their own Karaoke with their MP3 iSing, vent about their daily woes with Amazon’s Video Journal and even use their Hello Kitty Radio Communicator to chat with friends and … maybe family too! Not a bad idea for parents who are not quite ready to buy a cell phone, for their tech-hungry girl!

Shop more Girl’s Electronics

See my Favorite Girl Tech Items

Mother’s Day, Sunday May 10th, is fast approaching! While it’s easy to fall into buying the ‘Classic’ Mother’s Day gifts, there’s certainly a big difference between classic and cliché. While heart-shaped necklaces are nice, why not give something that shows more imagination? Here are a few gift classic ideas, that show a little more creativity!
Shop more Candles
Shop more Plate Ware
Shop more Jewelry Boxes
See My Mother’s Day Gift Guide
See My Favorite Mother’s Day Flowers

Yes it is true Tie Dye is back! Dig out those old 90s relics and put them on! Or you could shop new at shopbop who has tons of gorgeous tied dye dresses, shirts, and bags! So put on some Nirvana and your favorite tie dye shirts- the 90s are back!

DVF Silk Jersey Scarf, $65 $39, from Bluefly

It’s Coachella time! If you’re one of the lucky one’s going for a weekend of great music and potential sunburn make sure you remember:

1. Keep it simple.

These boyfriend shorts by Ever are loose and stylish and have pockets for all your fliers & chapstick.

2. Feminine details.

Even though you’ll be sweating like one of the boys, doesn’t mean you have to look like one. Feminine details like the ruffles of this Marc Jacobs swimsuit are perfect for the day.

3. Sun Block.

Sunglasses. You’ll need em (and a good SPF is a must).

4. Accessorize.

Keep it no-fuss with a bangle or two or a headband. A good bag for your water bottle, camera, etc. wouldn’t hurt either.

Have fun!!!

But you have the chance to win! Just sign up for Pronto.com

and you are automatically entered to win

(You can enter if you are already a member)

Good Luck!

Bare floors are no fun! Check out this Peace Rug from Cb2. It’s modern, graphic, and sends a positive message. It would make a great wall hanging too!

Peace Rug, from $199 at CB2

This hot pink handwoven hat from J.Crew is the perfect pool side companion for the upcoming hot summer months! This season it seems wider is better (when it comes to hats-of course!)

Shop more wide brimmed hats at Pronto and keep the sun out of your eyes!

I am in the market for a new digital camera! And I have no idea where to start so I sought some expert advice.
The Result: Sony Cyber-shot 10.1-Megapixel Digital Camera

Find out WHY after the jump

1. Carl Zeiss is like the Ana Wintour of Cameras If his name is associated with it  generally it means it is really good quality
2. 10 Mega pixels is really good.
3. 4x optical zoom also very good.
4.3.5″ widescreen touch-panel Clear Photo LCD Plus display with 912,000 pixels (translation: Big screen in the back!)
5.Burst shooting mode ( For awesome GIFS!)
6. Sleek and Slim and perfect for my pocket book.

Starting at $129.99

The denim jacket is a trend we thought we would just write off (especially since we hadn’t touched one since the 90’s). But alas, it’s springtime and we’ve found ourselves in the market… We’re still not sure about pulling off a full-on denim jacket, and never denim-on-denim, but luckily there are lots of great options out there.

Left: Denim Vest by Current/Elliot; Right: True Religion Jimmy Jacket

shop more denim jackets here

Vipp is a masterfully crafted luxury line of trashcans and houseware from Denmark that has become eye candy for design-fiends everywhere.

The super-sleek, architechurally sound designs cost a pretty penny (prices range from $80 – $500) but if you’re looking to put on the ritz, Vipp would add the perfect finishing touches to your home. Vipp has done many artist collaborations and most recenty unveiled there latest collection inspired by NYC taxis.

For the chance to win $50 @ InhabitatShop.com

Copy + Paste+Tweet the following:
@Prontodotcom is giving away $50 gift certificate for @inhabitat for #earthmonth retweet to enter! http://bit.ly/N7ct

Check out our Editor’s picks from Inhabitatshop.com

Winner is @jaxthatgirl

Our Eco-Tools Giveaway winner: Carly Hess

So you have a witty ironic blog? What’s the next step? Getting a witty ironic coffee table book of course! That is what the LOLcatz phenomenon people did and I am sure they are lol-ing all the way to the bank! I Can Has Cheesrburger by Professor Happycat is only $10 @ Urban Outfitters.
Also for ambitious geeks, Get the Guide to World Domination!

We are loving the sailor stripes on the Saldarini ‘Espadrille’ Stripe Tote at Nordstrom! Not only is this bag only $58 but it comes in 4 amazing colors! Just big enough for a book, a cell phone, and a wallet this bag is the perfect “I’m headed to pool” tote!  Which of the colors above is your favorite? We love the pink!

Winner of the Origins Organics giveaway: Caroline K.

You can still enter our Eco Tools giveaway and  starting tomorrow is our Inhabitat.com giveaway, stay tuned!

I am loving all these chunk belts from Forever 21. And we all know the best thing about Forever 21 is their recession friendly pricing! For Spring everyone should have a staple camel belt, black belt, and one fun belt like the one on the far right. From left to right The Aubrie Waist Belt ,Triple Buckle Waist Belt, and Geometric Croc Belt are all under $12.

Shop more belts.

As Seen on TV – everyone has a favorite. And now they’re all available at Bed, Bath, & Beyond online!

Above are a few we’re dying to try… what are your favorites?

Snap up a pair fast before they’re sold out!

Hey Guys! We are kicking off Earth Month Giveaway #3 with Eco Tools!
Eco tools makes beauty and bath products from natural and re-cycled materials. This Earth month, why not pamper yourself with these affordable, all-around good products?

All you have to do to enter is FAN our facebook page and leave us a little message on the WALL!

Check out our Editor’s Favorite Eco Tools Products!

And Don’t forget about our ORIGINS ORGANICS giveaway which is still going on till Sunday!

While many tea sets may seem too stuffy for the modern belle, we managed to find some great pieces at Target that are both fun and fresh. When putting a set together, remember that modern sets need not be matchy-matchy. Express yourself with your unique selection of patterns and colors! Here are some fun pieces that will help you start to put together the perfect tea party set!

Shop more Tea pots Here

Shop more Tea cups Here

Start some good green habits for your kids by using reusable napkins, utensils, and containers for their lunches, like some other these here:

1. Munchler Insulated Lunch Bags, $32 set of 4

2. LunchBots Stainless Steel Lunch Boxes, $14.95

3. Laptop Lunch Kit, $36.95

4. Gourmet Getaway, $25

Step aside Pollyanna and Amelie, there’s another peppy girl in town. Sally Hawkins stars in this seasons perky flick, Happy Go Lucky. Written and directed by Mike Leigh, Happy Go Lucky is a story about a light-hearted school teacher that manages to keep her head up, even in the face of conflict.
Buy Happy Go Lucky DVD
Shop more Comedy DVD’s

With Spring has come lots of leisurely strolls (walks in the park, walks on the beach, walks on the boardwalk, etc.) and while we’ve got boots & heels covered, our footwear closet has been lacking some easy Spring flats… and we’re loving these Espadrille Skimmers from Old Navy for under $20!

]]> http://shoptherapy.pronto.com/2009/04/07/espadrille-flats-under-20/feed/ 0 http://shoptherapy.pronto.com/2009/04/07/earth-month-giveaway-origins-organics/ http://shoptherapy.pronto.com/2009/04/07/earth-month-giveaway-origins-organics/#comments Tue, 07 Apr 2009 13:30:18 +0000 Jaclyn J http://shoptherapy.pronto.com/?p=2868

Welcome to our 2nd giveaway this Earth Month with Origins Organics-the ultimate organic beauty products!

Are you an eco-beauty enthusiast? Well stay tuned because we have another giveaway coming up on Thursday with Eco-tools.

In the meantime let us know how you are making the earth a better place in the comments and you might win the products pictured above! Good luck!

Winner of Origins Organics: Caroline Kasterine

WINNER of NIMLI Scarf Giveaway: Allyssa K.

Blazers were big for Fall and they are going to be even bigger for Spring! The fashion bloggers loved Mary Kate Olsen’s look when she paired a bright blue dress with a white blazer. You can get one from her line Elizabeth + James or there are plenty of other options available as well!

This watch not only tells time but has a custom record and playback digital style with date, custom alarms and light. Plus we love the retro feel of the faded leather and old school speaker! Perfect gift for that soon to be graduate!
Nixon Dictator Watch

Shop More Watches

I stopped in my tracks when I saw this rug. It’s like a painting on the floor, I would almost not want to walk on it because it is so beautiful! The “Georgia Flower” Rug ranges from $179 – $1,039 depending on size! I think this would look fantastic in a loft or in a shabby chic home, oh the possibilities!

It’s Prom Season! And our editors have been digging through some trends to bring you some of what we think are the must have dresses. Pictured above on the left is a take on the Bohemian Look ( Empire waist gown chiffon, lots of gold jewelry) I styled this look for Lord & Taylor! Other trends we noticed are one should dresses, large bows, and simple black dresses (pictured above on Chelsea from Pink Rock Candy)… Feeling inspired?

Check out our Editor’s Prom Picks

And , get 15% off Dresses (sale and regular priced at Lord & Taylor! )

Check out prices here!

We decided to celebrate Earth Month with giveaways from some of our favorite eco-friendly shops.

We couldn’t think of a better place to start than with Nimli.com which is an online marketplace devoted to providing natural, organic, and sustainable lifestyle products while embracing style and aesthetic. The silk wrap is absolutely gorgeous and super easy to win, just pick your favorite color from the options here and then tell us in the comments below!

And, don’t forget to shop Nimli.com for all your eco-friendly goods!

Check out our Editor’s picks from Nimli.com

Winner Announced: Allyssa K.

Gifts Idea for Kids: Leap Frog Computers

Making child-friendly computers, takes a certain kind of imagination. Leap Frog creates innovative technology that helps children lean interactively. With a full range of educational products starting at $30.00, Leap Frog makes the perfect Birthday gift, for any child.
Shop more Leap Frog Educational Toys products.

Sometimes it is the little details that make all the difference. That is why we love the little buttons we are seeing pop up on this seasons bikinis! They provide a cute addition to an already adorable bikini like the Chloe Polka Dot bikini on the left @ Net- A- Porter for $380 and the Billabong Piped bikini for $100 @ Urban Outfitters on the right(also available in Black!) We are excited to see what other trends pop up as bikini season gets into full swing!

It’s mid day and you glance down at your shirt and EEK! deodorant smudge. No matter how many wet paper towels you feverishly use to scrub the stain out it keeps re-emerging. Well fret no more! GAL PAL garmet deodorant removers have a special formula to get rid of that dang deodorant stain! Plus they come in travel packs…who could ask for more?

The LFD will be a staple for Spring/Summer, what is the LFD you ask? It’s the little floral dress of course! Loaded with bright watery colored patterns these will be your ultimate “throw it on and run out the door” go to! We love the what comes around goes around romper but we have to say the Forever 21 abstract floral tunic is equally as cute for about $210 less. What do you think? Romper or tunic?

Shop more Floral items

Not sure what to get that special someone for their birthday? Anniversary? Graduation?
I think it’s safe to say you can’t strike out with a coffee table book! Everyone loves a good coffee table book!
Here are some of our fool proof favorites:
The Way We Live: In the City (Way We Live)
The Travel Book: A Journey Through Every Country in the World
“the elements of style”
“the principles of uncertainty”

Shop more Coffee Table books

Good thing Forever 21 is way ahead of me! For only $2.80 you can get these adorable and fun bobby pins and add a splash of color to your hair!
Neon Bobby Pins

Check them all out on my ‘OMG Shoes!’ list here!

The dreamy blue colors of this glass is enough to make me want to flee my cubicle and head to Aruba. I found these gorgeous beach glass vases over at West Elm. The pieces are sold separately but I love the set as a whole particularly with the wood pieces so shabby chic!

Spring is in the air and now is time to stock up on all those light floral and cotton dresses! And for $19.99 you can’t afford not to invest in a few of these dress we found over at Target.com. From dark floral to cotton maxi’s from the Mossimo collection Target really is the recession-friendly destination for fashionistas!

Get the Dresses after the jump

Juniors’ Mossimo Supply Co. Racerback Dress – Italian Aster

Mossimo® Black Cascade Ruffle Dress – Blue

Juniors’ Mossimo Supply Co. Shirt Dress – Pink Gingham

Juniors’ Mossimo Supply Co. Surplus Dress w/ Tie – Ebony

Juniors Xhilaration® Smocked Waist Dress – Cream Print

Juniors Xhilaration® Short-Sleeve Top – Black Floral

1. West/Feren Berkshire Bag

2. Wild At Heart Necklace

3. Nine West Women’s Wedge Shoes Cassela

4. Ornate Disk Drop Earring

5. Sam Edelman Women’s Dress Zip Uri Boots

6. Rachel Leigh Jewelry Hippie Chic Headband

Check out these items and more here!

Striped Cardigan

$49 @ Urban Outfitters

or

$23 @ Forever 21

Who doesn’t remember painting Easter eggs as a child? Enjoy Easter time
all over again, with this fun array of crafts and candies!

Find these products and more like them on my list Here

We’ve been told that digital picture frames are “the next big thing” for a while now. But not until recently have we noticed a lot of our friends & family actually owning them. It’s really no surprise given that most consumers shoot 100% digital photography now, and the quality of the frames are finally catching up to the quality of our digital pictures.

Lately we’ve been thinking it’d be kind of fun to keep 2 digital frames – one with all of our friends & family photos, and another with all of our favorite saved fashion photos…

check out digital picture frames & prices on pronto.com

These monogrammed coasters from Bed, Bath, & Beyond could make a fantanstic housewarming gift or forever solve the problem of remembering who placed which drink where. Loves it.

$19.99/set at Bed, Bath & Beyond

As the temperature rises it is time to put away those black and metallic shiny bags you have been rocking all season. One of the Spring’s staple pieces is a white bag and this season particularly a white bag with boho or vintage-inspired details. Here are some of our Editor’s picks:
Portia Shoulder Bag $22.80 @ Forever 21
SEE BY CHLOÉ Zip top tote$795 @ Net- A- Porter
LEATHER STITCH CLUTCH BAG $80 @ TopShop.com
Leather and Suede Lattice Bag $80 @ Topshop.com

We think guys who rock pink are punk! Pink is tough for some guys to pull off but with the right amount of confidence and the right shade of pink ( no pastels!) we think it’s a look worth looking into. We found this hot pink plaid goodie by Homeroom @ Tobi.

Headphonies are by far the most adorable speakers for your mp3 player, with amazing sound quality and ulitmate portability you can bet you’ll love em! Part toy, part practical speaker this is makes for a perfect gift idea! Get your DKE Headphonies for only $30.

I can’t believe I have lived so long without this! I must get a Snoogle!

Check out more Jewelry on my Shiny Pretty Things List on Pronto.com!

BDG Striped Tee

Black Skinny Suspenders

Silence & Noise Harem Pants

Dr Marten Boots

The one of the left is (Drumroll…) Forever 21 and $29 and the one on the right is by Curtsy on Bluefly for $117

Find these clocks and more like them on my list Here

It’s LA Fashion week! While Hollywoods runways tend to slip the mainstream fashion radar, there are a pocketful of LA designers we wouldn’t mind lounging beachside in!

1. Rojas Tease Crop

2. Jen’s Pirate Booty Senorita Dress

3. Daughters of the Revolution Butterfly Dress

Even if green isn’t your color of choice, take advantage of this St. Patrick’s Day sale at Shopbop.com and buy something at a price that will have everyone green with envy!

Apple and Nike, have teamed up to create Nike Plus. This little sensor chip, made by Apple, syncs up to your iPod and enables you to monitor and track your running. You can either place it inside your sneaker, or attach it to your arm! How amazing is that?

Find this product on my list Here

1. Steven Women’s Slip-on Dress Shoes Bessy

2. Seychelles Women’s May Wood Platform Sandal

3. Michael Kors Women’s Hook and Loop Heartbreak Shoes

4. Loeffler Randall Poppy Perforated Wooden Platform Sandals

5. Nine West Women’s Dress Chailyn Sandals

This Sandler Zip Up in Black and Cream by Nicholas K. looks snuggly and fabulous! We say buy for him and then secretly have it for you because it’s cute on your man and even cuter on you! And yes, that model is giving you the eyes, buy me! buy me!

The new Nintendo DSi is Nintento’s answer to the iPhone… minus the phone. It’s not out until April, but you can pre-order yours now from Sears. New features include:

Downloadable Games

Thinner/Lighter Console

2 Cameras (one facing the user, the other facing outward)

SD Card slot

Plays Gameboy Advance Games as well as others

Music Player & Karakoe Music editor (strip the vocals and sing along!)

Lots more

Sounds good to me!

I think I like the length of the ALDO “Hagans” pair better but the Candela Loro Sandal is cute too! Which do you prefer? Or do you hate these all together?

Metal Knot Necklace

Beaded Collar Bib

Studded Satin Necklace

Get it here…

these are all so cute I’m kind of jealous they’re for kids!

1. Beaded Heart-Print Halter Tankini, $15

2. Ruffle & Polkdot Two-piece, $17.50

3. Floral Print Swimsuit, $15

4. Ruffle Trim Floral Swimsuit for Baby, $14.50

5. Heart Print Halter Swimsuit for baby, $14.50

6. Tiered Ruffle Swimsuit for baby, $14.50

Sophia Organic Sateen Duvet Cover & Sham
Ginger Organic Duvet Cover & Sham

I have been looking for a cute laptop back forever! Somehow, finding a bag which is both stylish and functional can seem like mere impossibility. Which is why, we wanted to tell you about these chic top sleeves and bags! Perfect for if you are traveling to SXSW!
Find these Bags and Sleeves on my list Here

Either you love this trend or you hate it! We love it! Go cheap on the trend @ urban outfitters or get your fancy pair of  Splendid’s harem pants over at Net-a-Porter.

Polaroid, the company that first brought us the wonder of instant photography, has now merged the quality of digital with the spontaneity of Polaroid! The POGO, Digital Polaroid has an LCD screen viewer and built in photo printer too!
Find this item on my list Here