Monday, August 31, 2009

Vintage Find of the Day




So art deco...so chic. Fall in love with this vintage Coro bracelet. The once-very-famous costume jewelry maker has hallmark pieces dating back to 1900. This is likely from the 40s and is a true classic. Make it yours for $165 at www.poshvintage.com.

Stripe Chic


Looking for a little twist on the classic blazer for fall? Try this adorable striped jacket. Its contrasting cuffs and pockets give it a little boost in the sophistication department and make it oh so cute.

Wear it with black cigarette pants and flats for day. But, don't be afraid to wear it at night either - with towering gladiators and some great jewelry. Add a splash of color with a bright handbag.

(On sale now for $99 at www.modernamusement.com).

Friday, August 28, 2009

Vogue Chic



As seen in the September issue of Vogue, this gorgeous Elliott Puckette print can be yours! A limited edition (of 200 prints) has been made exclusively for Conde Nast, which makes a new Puckette much more accessible than normal.

Trained in New York and known around the world, Puckette creates beautiful abstract paintings that are calming and never harsh. She creates a strong line of flowing, movement in all of her work and her use of color is wonderful.

(To purchase this print go to www.condenaststore.com and search under Elliott Puckette).

Thursday, August 27, 2009

eBay Find of the Day



In excellent condition and quite cute, check out this Hollywood Regency style, faux bamboo desk on eBay. It could also make a great console given its height (about 30 inches). The seller will pay for packing the item and shipping is added to the overall cost. It's currently bidding at $160. Very cute.

(See item number 390083528114
, or visit artcollector-usa's store on eBay).

Get Ready For Fall Chic


Number one on my list of must-haves for fall - a pair of over the knee boots. Check out this adorable pair from Nine West for $149. They are a very close replica to the current Chloe version, with a much more appealing price tag. Back to school never looked so cute.

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Art Chic



One of my current faves on www.ugallery.com is Farm House by Rachel Miller at The University of the Arts. This sizable piece would look great in a coordinating bedroom, study or entry way. And, for $300 it's guaranteed to be a good investment.

Not familiar with www.ugallery.com? Check it out for an enormous collection of original artwork created by trained art students around the country. Prices are just as compelling as the talent exhibited by all the artists.

Vintage Chic



This is my vintage find of the day. A colorful, purple rhinestone bracelet, complete with safety clasp. And, the bracelet is in excellent condition! Purple is not a common color found in jewelry and this little gem of a piece could make an outfit. It can be worn layered with other gold bracelets or would do just fine on its own.

For $32, it's a bargain!

(Check out www.jacksonjewels.com and go to item number 9022).

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Baggu Chic



For all of you Breton stripe shirt lovers out there, here is the perfect reusable shopper for you. Made by Baggu, these stylish over the shoulder bags come in three different sizes. The smallest (my fave) is perfect for lunch or a pair of shoes and is equally as cute as a casual handbag! The medium and large sizes are great for any assortment of goodies and will keep you looking sharp - even if you're hauling around 30 pounds of groceries.

If blue and white stripes aren't your thing, then choose from an incredible collection of bright solids and stylish patterns. You'll love what you find at www.baggubag.com.

Tuesday Delight

Monday, August 24, 2009

Rocker Chic



Every mother needs a rocker, and here's the best alternative for anyone who wants something far different from a bulky glider or an old fashioned Hitchcock. The Eames designed rocker (it even sounds cool). Originally created by Charles and Ray Eames in the early 1950s, these rockers are the ultimate in modern mom chic. And, they don't spare in the comfort department either. Add a little sheepskin for more cushion, or a decorative pillow for a splash of color and this rocker will become a family fave.

(Available at Design Within Reach. Not really in a position to pay DWR prices? Try the affordable reproduction version at www.moderndose.com).

Lorelei Handbags - Gilt Group


Hurry to get this darling lizard embossed leather clutch from Lorelei for $88 on the Gilt Group website. It's the perfect evening accessory and orange is the color to be seen in for fall!

Need a little outfit inspiration? Pair this bright clutch with a black blazer, boyfriend jeans and a pair of cutout heels or booties. Et voila - the perfect ensemble.

(Go to www.gilt.com and see Lorelei Handbags on sale now).

Beyond Chic



Seen on the arms of stars like Charlize Theron, Anne Hathaway, Reese Witherspoon and Demi Moore, Beyond Yoga's charitable canvas tote is a practical and chic choice for the gym or for grocery getting. Proceeds from the totes benefit, The Art of Elysium, an organization that brings art to the lives of children living with serious medical conditions.

(To learn more and purchase your own tote, go to www.iambeyond).

Love That Look



Rachel Roy says hello to fall with this understated and chic combo. She paired one of the it items of the fall season (a sequin jacket) with a basic striped t, and it looks great. Try your own version with skinny jeans or dress it up with a black skirt and black tights.

(Want a statement sequin piece for fall? Try the Sequin Boyfriend Blazer in Bronze at TopShop; www. topshop.com).

Sunday, August 23, 2009

Baby Chic



If you have not already, check out Rikshaw Design for some of the cutest and most refreshing baby linens available. Created by a Ralph Lauren alum, these hand block-printed designs are easy to fall in love with. Not looking for baby linens? Check out their line of cute accessories including bibs, burp cloths and animal-shaped pillows - the perfect gifts.

(Sold directly through www.rikshawdesign.com).

Saturday, August 22, 2009

Clutch Chic



This is no ordinary envelope. Designed by Patricia Field, it's one of her latest hip accessory creations. And, it's an easy option for jazzing up an ordinary outfit for going out. Also comes in silver and black! So Carrie.

(Purchase your own at www.patriciafield.com for only $54).

eBay Find of the Day



Make this Mawi Dome Hammered Box necklace yours! It's a unique 20" necklace strung with blue pearls and adorned with a red Swarovski crystal pendant. New and in the box! Currently bidding at $175.

(Go to www.ebay.com and search for item number: 250484877832).

Friday, August 21, 2009

Hat Attack



Save your skin and show a little style with an adorable straw fedora that will get you through the remaining sunny summer days and the all those to follow in fall. Try this one by Hat Attack - perfectly feminine and chic.

(All yours at www.hatattack.com).

Cocktail Ring Chic


Late August is the perfect time to keep summer colors alive in your wardrobe. Do it by choosing accessories in the colors you love. Try this blush opal stone ring. It's great for dressing up an evening outfit, or for wearing everyday. And, the price is right!

(Make it yours at www.theoutnet.com and search Monica Vinader opal facet ring. Enjoy!).

Thursday, August 20, 2009

Thursday Delight



(Photo courtesy of the NYT; taken of designer David Jimenez's kitchen).

Sunday, August 16, 2009

Delicate Chic



A little hippie, a lot chic! Scosha is an Australian born jewelry designer who has created a line of delicate and unique jewelry that may suit the free spirit in all of us. She uses a mix of recycled cottons, leather and antique textiles for each of her pieces and some are decorated with simple gems, some are not. One of my faves - this braided turquoise fly line adorned with a single gold bead. Looks great layered or on its own!

(Shop for Scosha at www.shopflick.com or see www.scoshanyc.com for a list of retail outlets in the US).

eBay Find of the Day



What better way to add a little whimsy and style to your family room. Or, use it in a nursery for a more modern look.

This ceramic elephant end table is new and has a Buy It Now price of $145 (with shipping in the United States at a flat rate of $15!).

(Go to item number 350240200733 at www.ebay.com).

Saturday, August 15, 2009

Converse For Kids



Slip on Converse. Oh so cute and oh so practical. Offered in a range of sizes, starting at infant 6, these are the best back to school blues I've seen.

(To purchase and see other colors available go to www.milkshop.com).

Friday, August 14, 2009

Daily Art



Follow miss Kelley MacDonald on her journey as an artist. Kelley keeps a lovely blog that she updates 3 - 6 times per week with small format oil and acrylic paintings - dailies as she calls them. Her work is original and her subjects are inspired by her every day life in New England.....at the beach, with her dog, in the yard, and among friends. Her work is for sale and always delightful. Enjoy!

(See www.kelleymacdonalddailypaint.blogspot.com).

Friday Delight



Someone is not afraid of color. J'adore.

(Amanda Nisbet design).

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Summer Chic



Channel your inner Rachel Zoe with this vintage Morton Myles layered dress. It's oh so chic, and it looks as comfortable as it does cool (as in - divine). What a great look for dinner out with your husband. Do you die!? Ha ha.

(Size 6/8 and found at www.marionmercer.com).

Glam Chic


Here is a necklace to drool over. Made by Mannin, it is of 18k recycled gold and reminiscent of something wonderfully old, yet perfectly modern for a glam mom. It would make a great, everyday signature piece. Or, it would work plenty well on its own for special occasions. To see it and other stunning jewelry pieces go to www.manninstudio.com.

(Want a much lower-cost alternative without giving up style? Check out www. extasia.com for its incredible variety of cameo and intaglio jewelry).

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Do As The French Do



In need of a little beauty regime pick me up? Try Carita Fluide De Beaute 14. The signature product of the old French beauty brand (founded by a pair of sisters more than 60 years ago) offers one-stop-shopping for face, body and hair care. It's an ultra-nourishing dry oil meant to strengthen and protect the surface of your face and body and leave it feeling and looking smooth and supple. It will do the same for your hair, too!

(To order go to www.caritadirect.com).

Discount Chic



Not quite ready to start buying your new token pieces for fall? Neither am I. Take advantage of all of the summer fashion discounts to be had. Try this cute crochet collar tank from The Outnet. It would be equally cute with white jeans and high heels for evening or over a pale skirt and flats for daytime.

(Available in size Large at www.theoutnet.com - the AKA NY Crochet Collar Blouse).

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Tuesday Delight

eBay Find Of The Day




This solid, 14k yellow gold vintage ring is a statement piece indeed. Its smoky quartz color is perfect for fall! The seller indicates that it's a size 6.25, and can be re sized to fit the lucky new owner. Currently bidding for $134.99.

(See www.ebay.com, item number 270438678797).

Monday, August 10, 2009

Keep Your Baby Warm


Check out this wonderfully cozy and sweet blankie for the baby in your life. This 100% cotton, hand loomed number is so darling. I have a friend in London who gave birth to a little guy this morning and I think this will make the perfect gift!

(For other adorable gift ideas for babies and children check out: www.blablakids.com).

Love That Look



A crisp white dress for summer - perfectly chic. Try your own version of this fabulous look. Pay close attention to the details (pairing a bold shoe with a coordinating handbag and wearing minimal jewelry) and your white will be sure to stand out wherever you are.

(Already have a white dress? Try a daring pair of heels - the Pour la Victoire beige patent leather Felicia pumps at www.bluefly.com).

Black and White Love



Add a touch of black and white modern to any tabletop or shelf space in your home. This handmade ginger jar is a great accessory on its own or filled with a bright bouquet of flowers. Don't you love it!

(Check out www.emiliaceramics.com for a variety of canisters and jars for your decorating needs).

Sunday, August 9, 2009

New Twist on Espadrilles


Here's a summer shoe that will take you into fall. The leather espadrille. Comfy and quite durable in leather - a new take on the classic linen or canvas version. Try them in an array of colors (including tropical pink, orange burst and indigo blue) at www.talbots.com - for only $23 a pair!

Monday, August 3, 2009

Cire Trudon


Treat yourself to a delicious Cire Trudon candle. Made of 100% natural ingredients, these candles are sure to make a statement with their incredible scent. And, don't be shy about using the gold embossed glass long after the candle has finished burning. They make great pencil holders, bud vases and drinking glasses - just to name a few ideas!

(Get your taste of France in a Cire Trudon at www.shopcielo.com).

Sunday, August 2, 2009

Dog Lover's Delight


In need of a gift for the pooch in your life? Try a Cotton Rope Toy from Harry Barker. These large, colorful (100% cotton and chemical-free dye) toys are sure to be a treat for any dog who likes to chew. The cotton knots that keep it together are meant to come un-knotted, cleaning the active chewer's teeth in the process. What better way to floss a dog's teeth!

(See www.harrybarker.com for a variety of dog loving accessories).

Bold Wallpaper



Small spaces are the perfect opportunity for bold wallpaper. This Given Campbell version is one of my favorites. And the details are just right! I would like a powder room just like this one.

(To be inspired, check out www.givencampbell.com. Photo courtesy of Given Campbell website).

Saturday, August 1, 2009

The Drake


This may not be the it bag of the season, but it's classic and chic and will stand out among a sea of trendy handbags. The Drake, made by BOYY is one of the cutest totes I've seen - and oh, so practical. It comes in five colors, including bright red and a striking turquoise.

(Make it yours at www.boyybag.com).