lollygirl, lollygirl, oooh lolly lollygirl!

They say that good things come in small packages--and the new line of lolly.brand tees for little girls is NO exception!

A few weeks ago, lolly.brand debuted a new line of tees made especially for lolly.girls. These irresistible tees are baby blue and feature the lolly.brand signature cupcake logo in hot pink. Now little girls can be just like mama, nieces like auntie, little sisters like big sisters--you catch my drift. Of course, these littles have an identity all their own--hence the unique color scheme of these tees, compared to the grown-up style.

But now Lolly (yes, I am officially speaking in third person) is itching for some neon of her own--and her Essie punchy pink nails just aren't cutting it! So there may be a hoodie design in the making, featuring fluorescents for the not-so-little lolly.girls--but shhh, that's neither here nor there.

In the meantime, think of the little lolly.girl in your life--and put a smile on her face! Cupcakes and/or tee shirts--or, better yet, cupcakes on tee shirts--should do the trick!


Image: Hannah is wearing the lolly.brand tee for kids, available in sizes 2T, 3T, 4T, 5/6, and 7 for $15 each. Available now by emailing Lolly at ilovelollybrand@gmail.com. This style is also coming soon to the lolly.brand website so stay tuned at www.lollybrand.net!

Summer of Chanel

In his New York Times interview on Tuesday, fashion legend Karl Lagerfeld was apparently in the mood to talk about Coco Chanel. This seems apropos, given that, under Steidl Photography International, he recently published a book of photographs of HRH, Coco Chanel, during the summer of 1962.

The book is entitled Mademoiselle: Coco Chanel/Summer 62 and targets a period that--in hindsight--is somewhat bittersweet, particularly in light of Lagerfeld's observation that it was "her last summer as the queen of fashion." The images selected for the book come from a collection of photographs taken by photographer Douglas Kirkland when he was on assignment in Paris for the American magazine, Look.

As you may know, j'adore Chanel--so I couldn't be more excited for this book. I feel it's an interesting opportunity to observe images of Chanel during a transitional period--for her personally, as well as for fashion at large. The best part is that, as viewers, we can find ourselves guided by Lagerfeld's observations (in both his written introduction and photograph captions) towards a better understanding of Chanel as a person, a designer, and a house of couture.

Lagerfeld writes, "Images left behind are in the end stronger than truth and facts." As fashion faces yet another period of transition, I can't imagine a more fitting time to embrace this story in pictures. As always, all hail Chanel!

Cover image from Mademoiselle: Coco Chanel/Summer 62, courtesy of Amazon(www.amazon.com); the book is available online--and is now on sale for $29.70!

Lulu-love

Last night, for the first time ever, my sister and I ventured to the Baron Baptiste studio in Cambridge for 90 minutes of power vinyasa yoga. If you've never been, this means 90 minutes of yoga practice in a heated room--so we were a little intimidated but decided to be brave.

Despite the distraction of sharing a corner with a fellow practitioner whose breathing resembled that of Darth Vader and who sweat like she was made of water, we loved it--it was challenging, invigorating, and a great overall work out. Having felt a number of stresses in our lives recently, it was exactly what we needed.

Of course, in between downward facing dog and warrior pose, we couldn't help but observe our classmates. As Annie remarked afterwards, "It was Lululemon up the wazoo in there!" Truly, it was. While I'm historically a Nike girl, I couldn't resist investigating the athletic apparel hotspot currently known as Lululemon...

Originating in British Columbia, the store was founded by Chip Wilson, who fell in love with yoga after his first time practicing. Chip felt inspired to revamp yoga apparel, after noting the inappropriate use of cotton clothing for sweaty power yoga (true!--so I learned). Favoring the more technical athletic fabrics, the first Lululemon store opened in 1998 in Vancouver. Clearly, the frenzy has grown since, and now Lululemon has an undeniable hold on fashion-forward exercise apparel.

On that note, after perusing the online selection, my crystal ball tells me that it is likely I will become a Lulu-lovin' Lolly. At the top of my list are: the Dance Pulse Wrap, the Yogini Pants, and the 5-Year Tee:

• The pants are perfectly contoured for a comfortable fit, while remaining breathable during an intense practice.


• The elongated silhouette of the tee is ideal for stretchy poses, when (if you're long-torsoed like us Warner girls) you find your midriff showing--whether you want to or not.


• Then, at the completion of your practice, when normal room temperatures feel practically artic after the tropical highs of the yoga studio, you can cozy up into the Dance Pulse Wrap.

With just a few key items, you're well on your way towards becoming a yoga star--and looking mighty fine in the process (added bonus!). So between now and next Wednesday, don't be surprised to find me browsing the selection at Lululemon. I mean, I can just see myself in those pants! Until then, fashionistas, namaste and be well.

Images courtesy of Lululemon, online at www.lululemon.com. Apparel: (1) Dance Pulse Wrap in heathered charcoal, $98; (2) Yogini Pants in charcoal, $96; and (3) 5-Year Tee in caribe, $49--all available from Lululemon.

Need Therapy?

With my impending move on my mind, thoughts of floor plans, furniture, linens, and accessories have been swirling through my head with increasing speed. Obsessive? Absolutely. In need of some therapy? Of course!--which is why, with each passing day, I find myself anxiously awaiting my daily email from Apartment Therapy.

If you don't know about Apartment Therapy, then allow me to be the official welcome wagon. Apartment Therapy is a website devoted to "saving the world one room at a time," running features on design-savvy living spaces around the nation. Their official mission is helping people make their homes more beautiful, organized and healthy by connecting them to a wealth of resources, ideas and community online--which, by extension, means inspiring both homeowners and renters to create a serene dwelling where they can relax, entertain, and generally feel at peace. Umm, yes please!

Today's Apartment Therapy email featured the "Best Northwestern Homes," and I fell in love with "Erin and Melanie's Sunny Mission Oasis," a 750 sq-foot apartment in the Mission District of San Francisco. Once again demonstrating the way that fashion is very much alive in the home, this living room scene implemented blue and brown, one of my very favorite color combinations. I am mesmerized by the contrasting textures, the way their soft blue sofa and plush rug play off of the classic hardwood floors, sleek and modern coffee table, and tall, skinny corner book shelf. The bright white walls and streaming natural light add a freshness to the space, further complimented by accents in various shades of blue. In the same way that I can envision myself in an amazing pair of heels or a perfect pair of jeans, I can totally see myself living in--and loving--this space.

Of course, I immediately began to think of how I might recreate a similar aesthetic in my own home-to-be. I feel that Erin and Melanie got it right with their careful pairing of textures: rich, dark wood with brightly colored plastics and soft, luscious fabric. The same principals are at work here as when putting together an outfit: a delicate balance of color and texture working together to create the overall look.

In my own living room, my husband and I absolutely adore our small, espresso-colored leather couch. In our apartment, we have matched our couch with dark wood bookshelves, a dark wood coffee table, and a neutral sisal rug. When we graduate to a larger space in our new home next month, we are looking forward to adding more color and mixing textures for a more balanced effect.

For Christmas from my mother, we received an armchair, newly upholstered in a soft neutral fabric with a brilliant lime paisley print swirling through-out in a raised velvet. Since it doesn't fit in our current home, we are anxious to put it to use! It is quite the statement chair, and I'm looking forward to the fierce contrast it will offer to our more traditional couch. Of course, it also suggests a fabulous color scheme: lime green and espresso brown. I couldn't be more excited to get to work. T minus three weeks!--Can you tell that I'm counting?

Even if you're not moving, it's so much fun to gaze upon your home decor with a critical eye. Are you utilizing the full potential of the space? What accessories could complete your vision? How does a room make you feel? Chances are, a little (apartment) therapy could do you some good. For suggestions and inspirations, be sure to visit Apartment Therapy online at http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/. After all, if you can't feel zen at home, then where can you?



Images courtesy of Apartment Therapy, available online at www.apartmenttherapy.com.

Seeing Studs

My love affair with studs began at the age of sixteen, when I took the train to Central Square's own (albeit somewhat sketchy) Hubba Hubba to collect a bag of silver cone-shaped studs to embellish my favorite black hoodie. Since then, I'd like to think that my taste has become somewhat more refined, but the rock star inside of me still loves studs. So you can imagine how happy I've been to see studded heels, belts, and handbags from reputable houses of couture gracing miles and miles of runway and red carpet alike.

While I know I've been riding the Burberry bandwagon lately, why stop now?--especially when Burberry Prorsum has embraced the effortless pairing of studs, spikes, and high fashion. In fact, I'm currently loving the Studded Ankle Strap Pumps from Burberry, a classic black patent peep-toe heel made totally fierce by the silvertone pyramid studs encrusting the heel and ankle strap. At first glance, this shoe is all demure sweetness, but from the back?--hello, vixen! This shoe is fit (pun totally intended, obvi) for the naughty and nice in every fierce fashionista.

Speaking of naughty, despite the fact that New York Magazine's fabulous fashion blog, The Cut, poked fun at Burberry Prorsum's line of overly spiked handbags last fall, I still love them anyway--The Cut and the spikes! Recently, however, Burberry has toned things down a bit, favoring more subtle hardware over borderline weaponry. The Burberry Women's Studded Plates Leather Clutch, for example, fuses the soft look of a traditional clutch with the edgy detailing of flat metallic studs along the periphery. If you're unsure about studs, think of this clutch as "studs for beginners"--definitely edgy but a bit more understated.

Seeing studs? Take a lesson from celebrity fashion plate, Rachel Bilson. Her studded Christian Louboutins add a definite punch, taking her classically pretty look to the next level. If you're from the still-unsure-about-studs camp, notice the way her fully-studded Louboutin shooties blend naturally with dark wash jeans and chic brown leather jacket, as well as her traditional black pants and blazer.

Believe it or not, there is a certain versatility with a statement piece like studded shoes, or a studded belt. In fact, perhaps the biggest misunderstanding when it comes to incorporating studded apparel and/or accessories into an outfit is the idea that the overall look will be over-the-top. While this is an option that I fully support, there are times when less can indeed be more--as demonstrated here by the lovely Miss Bilson.

We all know there's nothing like summer love, so let fashion be your guide this summer, my fearless fashionista friends--and be a stud by wearing some!

Images in order of appearance: (1) Burberry Studded Ankle Strap Pump $650, available from Nordstrom (http://www.nordstrom.com/); (2) Burberry Women's Studded Plates Leather Clutch in silver, on sale for $556, from Bloomingdales (http://www.bloomingdales.com/); (3)Rachel Bilson, photo courtest of Dress Like Starz (www.dresslikestarz.com).

Under My Umbrella (ella...ella...)

I realized that, during yesterday's discussion of rocking the rain, I neglected to mention the obvious: the point is to stay dry. Of course, trench coats and rubber boots are ideal weapons against a cold, wet rainstorm--but let us not forget the value of an umbrella.

While driving to work this morning in what seemed like an apocalyptic torrent of rain, Rihanna's catchy "Umbrella" pulsed appropriately through my brain like my own internal soundtrack, making me think of umbrellas (obvi). Then it hit me, like a bolt of lightning (don't worry--not literally): what a fun fashion accessory! I mean, I just adore my Burberry umbrella--a well selected Christmas gift from my husband during our courtship. I find it utterly fulfilling to guard myself from the weather with something that's functional, yet chic.

While Burberry may or may not have a trench coat monopoly, when it comes to umbrellas, other designers also cater to the weather-conscious fashionista. I have searched high and low and come up with my top 3 favorite umbrellas, offering rainy-day fabulousity at every price point.

1.) From the ultra-mod Marimekko comes the Omena White Umbrella, a classic white umbrella with a charming red apple print. I am admittedly a huge fan of all things Marimekko, but what I like about this umbrella in particular is its young, whimsical look. Can't you just picture yourself in pigtails with red Hunter wellies and this very umbrella? Too cute for words. Price tag: $32

2.) Spell it out with the Standard Supply umbrella from Marc by Marc Jacobs. This sturdy green and black umbrella makes its function known through neon green letters circling round. I like the contrast of the more traditional base pattern with the bright neon alphabet graphics. So edgy--and so typical of Sir Marc, my favorite above favorites. Price tag: $58

3.) Mark your territory with the Monogram Umbrella from the Horchow Collection. Select from apple green, raspberry, or aqua, and then add your first initial in contrast script so there is no mistake about who is in charge. This umbrella screams preppy--and is absolutely irresistible. Price tag: $19

While I can't imagine actually singing in the rain, the right umbrella might make me happy enough to do so. What better way to brighten a grey day than a little pop! of color overhead? But don't worry if you forgot yours at home--I'll let you stand under my umbrella (ella...ella...eh...eh...).

Images in order of appearance: (1) London Underground art print $59.99, from AllPosters (http://www.allposters.com/); (2) Omena White Umbrella by Marimekko, on sale for $32 at Finnish Gifts (http://www.finnishgifts.com/), image from http://www.oaknyc.com/; (3) Standard Supply Umbrella $58, from Marc by Marc Jacobs, available at Nordstrom (http://www.nordstrom.com/); (4) Monogrammed Umbrella, on sale for $19 from the Horchow Collection (http://www.horchow.com/).

Rock & Raining

In the last fifteen days, we have seen a total of three sunny days, and in the next ten days we are expected to see another two. This is not a good average, especially for a girl who requires sun to stay sane--and whose hair will remain totally out of control when faced with near constant humidity. So what's a girl to do? I've decided that I have no choice but to rock the rain.

My decision certainly begs the question: is it possible to rock when it's raining? During the summer after my first year of college, I took a road trip to Vermont to see Phish's own Trey Anastasio with one of my best friends, Bekah, and my younger brother, Ben. That summer was much like this one is (at least so far): rain, rain, and more rain. Yet, we managed to embrace the rain, go barefoot in the mud, and--quite literally--rock. So I can attest that it's certainly possible to do so; it just requires a bit of effort.

Don't worry; I'm not suggesting that you should start listening to Phish or embrace an all-natural lifestyle. I'm only arguing for a certain amount of preparation and protection against the elements. My secret weapon? Smart fashion. Think about how happy and fulfilled you feel when you wear your favorite outfit, or a pair of really killer shoes. Now, try to recall how confident and fabulous you feel when you walk out of the salon, post cut-and-color. This feeling of fashion-forward invigoration is totally possible in the rain with a few wise wardrobe choices:

1.) Wellies for the weather: Check out fashion it-girl, Kate Moss, who braves the mud at Glastonbury mud in her black Hunter wellies. Her look is chic, yet completely weather-friendly. You can easily steal her look with your own pair of Hunters (which are available in a rainbow of colors) and an oversized black belt.

2.) Free your hair from frizz: From my personal favorite, Frederic Fekkai, comes the Coiff Perfecteur Anti-Frizz Silkening Creme. According to Sephora, this product is designed to "frizz not, whatever the weather or styling state." If your hair is anything like mine, then this product is worth its weight in gold and well worth the $25 price tag.

3.) Take on the trench coat: This one is a non-negotiable; any fashionista worth two cents understands the value of a good trench coat. Growing up with a very dapper grandfather, I learned early on of the Burberry trench coat and dreamed of the day when I, too, would be able to tackle the elements in stylish comfort. For my birthday last summer, I was thrilled to become the proud owner of my very own--at long last! Of course, yours need not be Burberry (though I can't imagine anything better); in fact, I'm also partial to the Banana Republic Classic Trench. But whatever brand you choose, a trench is an absolute MUST when it comes to surviving inclement weather in style.

4.) Fake it 'til you make it: While we know that spending hours in the sun with your face surrounded by a foil reflector is no longer a savvy beauty regime, we all love a little sun-kissed glow. Of course, when the skies are dark and rainy, that becomes slightly problematic. Thanks to Trish McEvoy's St. Tropez Bronzer, we can fake it 'til the weather allows it. According to the beauty gurus at Nordstrom, Miss Trish designed this amazing bronzer "with the ideal proportions of pink undertones to mimic the prettiest, naturally tanned complexion." Priced reasonably at $32, you can capture that irresistible beach glow from the comfort of your home--even when there's a storm brewing.

While I would like to believe that little orphan Annie was right, that the sun will come out tomorrow, it never hurts to be prepared. A fashionista has to be able to look her best, regardless of thunderstorms and hurricane warnings. You know what they say: when it rains, it pours--so pour on the style, lady, and rock the rain!





Images in order of appearance: (1) Burberry advertisement, from Burberry (http://www.burberry.com/); (2) Kate Moss, photo courtesy of the star/style/celebrity fashion blog, Celeb Fashion (www.celebfashion.co.uk/); (3) Burberry advertisement, from Burberry; (4) St. Tropez Bronzer by Trish McEvoy $32, available from Nordstrom (www.nordstrom.com).