Fashion smackdown: Oprah vs. Hermes
Unless you've been living under a rock, I'm sure you've heard about Oprah's skirmish at Hermes (to make a long story short, Oprah tried to enter the venerated Paris store 15 mintues after it closed and was not allowed in due to, depending on the story, a PR event happening inside or a recent "problem with the North Africans"). While the former account has been more or less confirmed to be true, the incident has still, nonetheless, sparked much debate, especially on the Internet. Oprah has, off the record, referred to this as her "Crash" event, and one of the most embarrassing things that's ever happened to her (which I assume to be a slight exaggeration). But in this article by Washington Post fashion critic Robin Givhan (who, by the way, is black) makes several very rational points. One is that Hermes is one of the most expensive luxury brands in existence and this was a (perhaps unintentional) way to weed out "undesirable" clientele (like, say, Li'l Kim) in a sort of fashion Darwinism (as snobby and as racist as that may sound). Another is that Hermes was preparing for a huge event in-store, was taken off-guard by Oprah's arrival, and quite honestly didn't have time to lavish the proper amount of attention on her, even if she claimed she only wanted to pop in and buy a watch. Perhaps the most pertinent point that Givhan calls out is that an employee of the store dared to treat Oprah like--gasp!--a regular customer and not a mega-celebrity. Obviously, Oprah is not used to hearing the word "no." And, no doubt, she'll surely be trashing Hermes and screaming racism when she's back on the air in September (she's already cancelled her most recent Birkin order), and among Oprah's millions of viewers, most of whom can't afford more than a Twilly at the store anyway, "Hermes" is sure to become a dirty word. Which, in fashion's sick and twisted way, is sure to bolster its status as the ultimate luxury brand.
Tuesday, June 28, 2005
Website of the week
I've always had a bit of a green thumb. When I was three, I brought home a jade plant from preschool; that plant is now a five-foot-tall tree that resides on my parents' patio. I also brought home a stick from Arbor Day when I was in second grade; it's now a thirty-foot-tall tree hovering over my parents' house. Within the last few months, I've rediscovered my love of plants, finding that it is quite possible to grow them even in a not-so-sunny New York apartment. Plants are good for you (they release oxygen into the air), and they bring out my inner nurturer. So, in kind of a full-circle way, this week's website of the week is Sprout Home, a Chicago-based store that's all about the urban gardener and the home-garden connection. The nice part though, is that even if you're not so into gardening, there's lots of cool stuff for inside your home as well. The website is simply structured; you can browse by category or search for something specific (of course, I always prefer browsing). The merchandise is a bit on the modern side, and unlike anything I've seen in any other home store. I love all of these Dwell-esque shower curtains; any of these doormats would make an excellent choice; these vintage pillows are unlike any I've seen; and they have an incredible selection of mod, psychedelic plates (my favorite is this delight plate). Outdoor-wise, they've got a great selection of gardening tools and planters; I want to replace all of my dumb terra cotta planters with ones like this small gloss planter, which would go so much better with my decor. The site is also a great source for hostess gifts, which we're all in need of this time of year when we're visiting friends' summer cottages, parents' suburban houses with pools, etc. I think anyone would love this Portugese Gipsi soap, these truly innovative crane chopstick stands, or these seeds for a butterfly garden. So while your fifth-floor walkup studio might not have a rooftop garden or even a terrace, a plant here and there--in cool planters, of course--can make it feel like you do.
I've always had a bit of a green thumb. When I was three, I brought home a jade plant from preschool; that plant is now a five-foot-tall tree that resides on my parents' patio. I also brought home a stick from Arbor Day when I was in second grade; it's now a thirty-foot-tall tree hovering over my parents' house. Within the last few months, I've rediscovered my love of plants, finding that it is quite possible to grow them even in a not-so-sunny New York apartment. Plants are good for you (they release oxygen into the air), and they bring out my inner nurturer. So, in kind of a full-circle way, this week's website of the week is Sprout Home, a Chicago-based store that's all about the urban gardener and the home-garden connection. The nice part though, is that even if you're not so into gardening, there's lots of cool stuff for inside your home as well. The website is simply structured; you can browse by category or search for something specific (of course, I always prefer browsing). The merchandise is a bit on the modern side, and unlike anything I've seen in any other home store. I love all of these Dwell-esque shower curtains; any of these doormats would make an excellent choice; these vintage pillows are unlike any I've seen; and they have an incredible selection of mod, psychedelic plates (my favorite is this delight plate). Outdoor-wise, they've got a great selection of gardening tools and planters; I want to replace all of my dumb terra cotta planters with ones like this small gloss planter, which would go so much better with my decor. The site is also a great source for hostess gifts, which we're all in need of this time of year when we're visiting friends' summer cottages, parents' suburban houses with pools, etc. I think anyone would love this Portugese Gipsi soap, these truly innovative crane chopstick stands, or these seeds for a butterfly garden. So while your fifth-floor walkup studio might not have a rooftop garden or even a terrace, a plant here and there--in cool planters, of course--can make it feel like you do.
Monday, June 27, 2005
The week in shopping
Sale of the week: It's the only one that really matters this week--yes, it's time for the Crazy Sale at my fave shoe store, Sigerson Morrison. Summer shoes are currently 30% off; they go 40% off on 7/5, and 50% off on 7/15. Shop now for best selection or wait for lower prices? Good question. 11-7, noon-6 Sun.; 28 Prince St. (at Elizabeth St.) and 242 Mott St. (Houston & Prince Sts.).
Didn't make it to the Theory sale a few weeks ago? Clothingline is hosting an offsite sale and the prices are even lower. Check website for details. 6/28-6/30; noon-7:45 Tue., 10-7:45 Wed., 10-5:45 Thurs.; Metropolitan Pavilion, 110 W. 19th St. (6th & 7th Aves.), ground floor.
D&G Dolce & Gabbana for men, women, and kids is up to 60% off. Through 7/15; 10-8, 11-7 Sun.; 434 W. Broadway (Prince & Spring Sts.).
The cool, downtown line Zero Maria Cornejo is on sale. Through 7/15; 12:30-7:30; 225 Mott St. (Prince & Spring Sts.).
Yigal Azrouel's pricey dresses and sportswear are on sale. Through 7/31; 11-7; 12:30-6 Sun.; 408 W. 14th St. (9th Ave. & Washington St.).
Clothes and home accessories from MarieMarie, Meg Cohen, Elizabeth Gillett, and more are 30%-80% off (that's $5 and up). 6/28-6/30; 237 W. 35th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), ste. 304.
Norma Kamali's sexy swimwear is a nice 75% off. Through 7/11; 10-6; closed Sun.; 11 W. 56th St. (5th & 6th Aves.).
Super-fancy stationery from Mrs. John L. Strong is up to 75% off. 6/28-6/30; 11-6:30; 20 W. 22nd St. (5th & 6th Aves.).
Spring/summer clothes and accessories are $10 and up at Olive and Bette's sale. 6/29; 8-7; 1070 Madison Ave. (at 81st St.).
Select spring/summer items are 70% off at BCBG.
Spring/summer merch is now up to 60% off at Barneys.
Save 15%-75% at Girlshop's "Gotta have it" sale.
Save 40% at Agnes B's summer sale. Shop online or check website for locations.
Save 40%-70% at Built by Wendy's summer sale.
Save up to 50% at Club Monaco.
Take 30% off your order at Le Train Bleu when you enter code "solstice" at checkout through 7/1.
Save up to 75% at Blush's sale.
Save 10% at Target when you enter code TCTENSAVNGSU through 6/29.
Oh, how we love Lord & Taylor coupons.
Save 25%-55% at Vivre's summer sale.
Take 15% off your order at girly accessories source omondieu when you enter code 206051555 at checkout through 6/30.
Take 10% off your order of $125 or more when you enter code F359AB at checkout through 7/1 at Forzieri.
Sale of the week: It's the only one that really matters this week--yes, it's time for the Crazy Sale at my fave shoe store, Sigerson Morrison. Summer shoes are currently 30% off; they go 40% off on 7/5, and 50% off on 7/15. Shop now for best selection or wait for lower prices? Good question. 11-7, noon-6 Sun.; 28 Prince St. (at Elizabeth St.) and 242 Mott St. (Houston & Prince Sts.).
Didn't make it to the Theory sale a few weeks ago? Clothingline is hosting an offsite sale and the prices are even lower. Check website for details. 6/28-6/30; noon-7:45 Tue., 10-7:45 Wed., 10-5:45 Thurs.; Metropolitan Pavilion, 110 W. 19th St. (6th & 7th Aves.), ground floor.
D&G Dolce & Gabbana for men, women, and kids is up to 60% off. Through 7/15; 10-8, 11-7 Sun.; 434 W. Broadway (Prince & Spring Sts.).
The cool, downtown line Zero Maria Cornejo is on sale. Through 7/15; 12:30-7:30; 225 Mott St. (Prince & Spring Sts.).
Yigal Azrouel's pricey dresses and sportswear are on sale. Through 7/31; 11-7; 12:30-6 Sun.; 408 W. 14th St. (9th Ave. & Washington St.).
Clothes and home accessories from MarieMarie, Meg Cohen, Elizabeth Gillett, and more are 30%-80% off (that's $5 and up). 6/28-6/30; 237 W. 35th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), ste. 304.
Norma Kamali's sexy swimwear is a nice 75% off. Through 7/11; 10-6; closed Sun.; 11 W. 56th St. (5th & 6th Aves.).
Super-fancy stationery from Mrs. John L. Strong is up to 75% off. 6/28-6/30; 11-6:30; 20 W. 22nd St. (5th & 6th Aves.).
Spring/summer clothes and accessories are $10 and up at Olive and Bette's sale. 6/29; 8-7; 1070 Madison Ave. (at 81st St.).
Select spring/summer items are 70% off at BCBG.
Spring/summer merch is now up to 60% off at Barneys.
Save 15%-75% at Girlshop's "Gotta have it" sale.
Save 40% at Agnes B's summer sale. Shop online or check website for locations.
Save 40%-70% at Built by Wendy's summer sale.
Save up to 50% at Club Monaco.
Take 30% off your order at Le Train Bleu when you enter code "solstice" at checkout through 7/1.
Save up to 75% at Blush's sale.
Save 10% at Target when you enter code TCTENSAVNGSU through 6/29.
Oh, how we love Lord & Taylor coupons.
Save 25%-55% at Vivre's summer sale.
Take 15% off your order at girly accessories source omondieu when you enter code 206051555 at checkout through 6/30.
Take 10% off your order of $125 or more when you enter code F359AB at checkout through 7/1 at Forzieri.
Wednesday, June 22, 2005
Masstige Watch!
While I consider myself a fairly open-minded shopper, I avoid Home Shopping Network, QVC, and the like because, really, I think they're kind of gross. Like, tacky cubic zirconia bracelets gross. So even though I read several months ago that QVC was hopping on the masstige bandwagon with lines by cool indie designers Alice Roi, John Bartlett, Liz Collins and Maria Cornejo, I didn't check it out until recently. So now that I finally have, my reaction is...mixed. While quite stylish for QVC, the clothes are a bit on the boring side. Then again, they come in sizes up to 3X (that's a women's 26-28), so this isn't really the arena for avant garde fashion (and, again, it doesn't do much to dispel what I imagine to be QVC's core audience of overweight midwestern housewives). It is, however, a great opportunity to score some designer-ish stuff if you're a plus-size gal. And there is some not-so-bad stuff. I'm definitely ordering this ruffle-trim duster by Alice Roi and this Liz Collins sweater. Um, but that's about it. Let's hope their fall lines are a bit more fun, like all these designers' regular lines.
While I consider myself a fairly open-minded shopper, I avoid Home Shopping Network, QVC, and the like because, really, I think they're kind of gross. Like, tacky cubic zirconia bracelets gross. So even though I read several months ago that QVC was hopping on the masstige bandwagon with lines by cool indie designers Alice Roi, John Bartlett, Liz Collins and Maria Cornejo, I didn't check it out until recently. So now that I finally have, my reaction is...mixed. While quite stylish for QVC, the clothes are a bit on the boring side. Then again, they come in sizes up to 3X (that's a women's 26-28), so this isn't really the arena for avant garde fashion (and, again, it doesn't do much to dispel what I imagine to be QVC's core audience of overweight midwestern housewives). It is, however, a great opportunity to score some designer-ish stuff if you're a plus-size gal. And there is some not-so-bad stuff. I'm definitely ordering this ruffle-trim duster by Alice Roi and this Liz Collins sweater. Um, but that's about it. Let's hope their fall lines are a bit more fun, like all these designers' regular lines.
Website of the week
Inspired by this season's boho-chic look (or bobo, if you will), I've been looking for one of those little horn necklaces. I saw a bunch at Urban Outfitters, but they were kind of cheap-looking, and I haven't had good experiences with Urban's jewelry in the past. Then I found a nice one for, oh, $200 at Shop Intuition, however that was a bit more than I wanted to spend on a necklace that I might not be wearing six months from now. So while I'm all for nice, fancy jewelry, when it comes to trendy stuff, like clothes, the cheaper the better. (And, hey, Coco Chanel loved to mix costume jewelry with the nice stuff.) Enter Alltherageonline, a website full of affordable jewelry that's, well, all the rage. And it's cheap! While I saw a few items that were over $30, most stuff is in the $15-$25 range--so a step above the stuff you'd get at H&M or Forever 21, but not quite as nice as what you'd find in a boutique. So to get started, you can search, browse by category (earrings, necklaces, bracelets, rings, hair accessories, and "other stuff"), shop by price range, and the most ingenious feature ever, shop by magazine in which you saw something. (Let's hear it for cross-marketing!) So, happily, they have a horn necklace, which they call the elephant tooth charm necklace--I like the extra beaded detail. And if I so choose, I can get semi-matching earrings. Other right-on-trend stuff that caught my eye: This beaded necklace puts a funky spin on all those faux-coral necklaces out there; the cloisonette & cameo collar has that cluttered, boho/bobo look; the interplanetary wood bangles are made for stacking; the eshta shimmy and chatter loops have that Indian-inspired thing going on; and I love this beachy-looking shark's tooth bracelet. So, in addition to these incredibly reasonable prices, there's always a sale at alltherageonline; this week you get a free beaded cuff with a $30 purchase, and you can take 15% off a $25 order, 20% off a $50 order, and 25% off a $75 order. Hey, let's hear it for costume jewelry!
Inspired by this season's boho-chic look (or bobo, if you will), I've been looking for one of those little horn necklaces. I saw a bunch at Urban Outfitters, but they were kind of cheap-looking, and I haven't had good experiences with Urban's jewelry in the past. Then I found a nice one for, oh, $200 at Shop Intuition, however that was a bit more than I wanted to spend on a necklace that I might not be wearing six months from now. So while I'm all for nice, fancy jewelry, when it comes to trendy stuff, like clothes, the cheaper the better. (And, hey, Coco Chanel loved to mix costume jewelry with the nice stuff.) Enter Alltherageonline, a website full of affordable jewelry that's, well, all the rage. And it's cheap! While I saw a few items that were over $30, most stuff is in the $15-$25 range--so a step above the stuff you'd get at H&M or Forever 21, but not quite as nice as what you'd find in a boutique. So to get started, you can search, browse by category (earrings, necklaces, bracelets, rings, hair accessories, and "other stuff"), shop by price range, and the most ingenious feature ever, shop by magazine in which you saw something. (Let's hear it for cross-marketing!) So, happily, they have a horn necklace, which they call the elephant tooth charm necklace--I like the extra beaded detail. And if I so choose, I can get semi-matching earrings. Other right-on-trend stuff that caught my eye: This beaded necklace puts a funky spin on all those faux-coral necklaces out there; the cloisonette & cameo collar has that cluttered, boho/bobo look; the interplanetary wood bangles are made for stacking; the eshta shimmy and chatter loops have that Indian-inspired thing going on; and I love this beachy-looking shark's tooth bracelet. So, in addition to these incredibly reasonable prices, there's always a sale at alltherageonline; this week you get a free beaded cuff with a $30 purchase, and you can take 15% off a $25 order, 20% off a $50 order, and 25% off a $75 order. Hey, let's hear it for costume jewelry!
Monday, June 20, 2005
The week in shopping
Sale of the week: Busty gals like me rely on Shoshanna for dresses and swimsuits. No matter what your bust size, get her goods for up to 70% off at this sale. 6/21-6/23; 10-4 Tue. & Wed., 10-4 Thurs.; 231 W. 39th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 4th fl.
Everything for men and women at the oh-so-French A.P.C. is 30%-50% off. 6/21-8/2; 11-7, noon-6 Sun.; 131 Mercer St. (Prince & Spring Sts.).
Rafe New York's nouveau preppy bags and shoes are up to 80% off. 6/23-6/25; 10-7, 11-5 Sat.; 85 5th Ave. (at 16th St.), 12th fl.
For the ladies who lunch, Carolina Herrera and Rena Lange's elegant womenswear is up to 85% off. 6/22-6/23; 9-6:30; Metropolitan Pavilion, 123 W. 18th St. (6th & 7th Aves.), 4th fl.
Need ballet flats? Hit French Sole for the best selection for a whopping 50%-70% off. 6/26-7/2; 10-7, 10-6 Sat., noon-5 Sun.; 985 Lexington (at 71st St.).
While you're in the neighborhood, hit Lingerie on Lex for La Perla, Chantelle, and Cosabella for 50%-75% off. 6/22-8/15; 10-7, 11-6 Sat., noon-5 Sun.; 831 Lexington (at 63rd St.).
Finally, you don't have to haul out to Long Island City for The Conran Shop's annual sale, where discontinued, imperfect, and sample home furnishings are up to 70% off. 6/24-6/26; 10-8; 407 E. 59th St. (at 1st Ave.).
Only Hearts' super-feminine lingerie is $7 and up at this sale. 6/24-6/26; 11-6; 230 Mott St. (Prince & Spring Sts.).
While I'm not usually a big fan of paying to go shopping, Gen Art's shopping event benefits emerging designers like the excellent Double Happiness, Christine Alcalay, and Lorelei, whose wares are up to 40% off. Admission is $20. 6/21; 6-10 p.m.; Puck Building, 293 Lafayette (at Houston).
Hollywould's spring sale is now in effect. 198 Elizabeth St. (at Prince St.).
Take $10 off any $50 order at La Redoute when you enter code 1651-52191-557 at checkout through 6/22.
Save up to 50% at L.A. fave Shop Intuition. FYI, I got an Allison Burns Faithfull bag for $100.
Hit Club Monaco on lower Fifth to celebrate the book "Twins of Tribeca" and get cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, and 20% off. 6/23; 6:30-8:30; 160 5th Ave. (at 20th St.).
Save up to 30% at BoConcept's annual sale through 7/31. Check website for store locations and hours.
Take 10% off your order at Target when you enter code TCSUMMRSALES at checkout through 6/21.
Get this kickass Kate Spade makeup bag and high-end samples with your $150 beauty purchase at Bergdorf's through 6/25. Plus, enter code BEAUTY at checkout for free shipping!
It's the "second take" sale (perhaps the dumbest name ever) at Lord & Taylor.
Sale of the week: Busty gals like me rely on Shoshanna for dresses and swimsuits. No matter what your bust size, get her goods for up to 70% off at this sale. 6/21-6/23; 10-4 Tue. & Wed., 10-4 Thurs.; 231 W. 39th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 4th fl.
Everything for men and women at the oh-so-French A.P.C. is 30%-50% off. 6/21-8/2; 11-7, noon-6 Sun.; 131 Mercer St. (Prince & Spring Sts.).
Rafe New York's nouveau preppy bags and shoes are up to 80% off. 6/23-6/25; 10-7, 11-5 Sat.; 85 5th Ave. (at 16th St.), 12th fl.
For the ladies who lunch, Carolina Herrera and Rena Lange's elegant womenswear is up to 85% off. 6/22-6/23; 9-6:30; Metropolitan Pavilion, 123 W. 18th St. (6th & 7th Aves.), 4th fl.
Need ballet flats? Hit French Sole for the best selection for a whopping 50%-70% off. 6/26-7/2; 10-7, 10-6 Sat., noon-5 Sun.; 985 Lexington (at 71st St.).
While you're in the neighborhood, hit Lingerie on Lex for La Perla, Chantelle, and Cosabella for 50%-75% off. 6/22-8/15; 10-7, 11-6 Sat., noon-5 Sun.; 831 Lexington (at 63rd St.).
Finally, you don't have to haul out to Long Island City for The Conran Shop's annual sale, where discontinued, imperfect, and sample home furnishings are up to 70% off. 6/24-6/26; 10-8; 407 E. 59th St. (at 1st Ave.).
Only Hearts' super-feminine lingerie is $7 and up at this sale. 6/24-6/26; 11-6; 230 Mott St. (Prince & Spring Sts.).
While I'm not usually a big fan of paying to go shopping, Gen Art's shopping event benefits emerging designers like the excellent Double Happiness, Christine Alcalay, and Lorelei, whose wares are up to 40% off. Admission is $20. 6/21; 6-10 p.m.; Puck Building, 293 Lafayette (at Houston).
Hollywould's spring sale is now in effect. 198 Elizabeth St. (at Prince St.).
Take $10 off any $50 order at La Redoute when you enter code 1651-52191-557 at checkout through 6/22.
Save up to 50% at L.A. fave Shop Intuition. FYI, I got an Allison Burns Faithfull bag for $100.
Hit Club Monaco on lower Fifth to celebrate the book "Twins of Tribeca" and get cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, and 20% off. 6/23; 6:30-8:30; 160 5th Ave. (at 20th St.).
Save up to 30% at BoConcept's annual sale through 7/31. Check website for store locations and hours.
Take 10% off your order at Target when you enter code TCSUMMRSALES at checkout through 6/21.
Get this kickass Kate Spade makeup bag and high-end samples with your $150 beauty purchase at Bergdorf's through 6/25. Plus, enter code BEAUTY at checkout for free shipping!
It's the "second take" sale (perhaps the dumbest name ever) at Lord & Taylor.
Tuesday, June 14, 2005
Website of the week
When I was in Boston over Memorial Day weekend, I made sure we stopped at the Diptyque store on Newbury Street. This is one of my favorite places to hit in Beantown, because not only do they carry every scent of candle, perfume, soap, and what-not that Diptyque makes, they also carry cool French stuff that you can't find anywhere else. My most recent discovery is Mariage Freres tea; I bought this vanilla-flavored green tea by them (I am a tea drinker, not a coffee-drinker) and I can't get enough of it. Sadly, Mariage Freres' official site does not do much, like, say, have much of anything. I did, however, find a lovely little Texas-based mini-chain called Sloan Hall that does sell the line online. Sadly, you can't sniff the teas online (part of the fun!), but the pictures and descriptions do help (I have my eye on the Bouddha Bleu, Marco Polo Vert, and the Oriental). They're $18 for a tin (a bit more than Celestial Seasonings, but if you're a tea lover, well worth it), and the tea is loose, so you need an infuser or a French press-type teapot (I have an excellent little one from Bodum on West 14th). As for the rest of the website, they carry a nice selection of candles (including a line of tea-influenced scents from Mariage Freres) and bath products, but since last week's website of the week was bath-and-body-oriented, I won't go into too much detail here. The important thing is the tea, and I find it amusing that the only website that appears to sell it is based in Texas. Maybe I do have something in common with those Red State people...
When I was in Boston over Memorial Day weekend, I made sure we stopped at the Diptyque store on Newbury Street. This is one of my favorite places to hit in Beantown, because not only do they carry every scent of candle, perfume, soap, and what-not that Diptyque makes, they also carry cool French stuff that you can't find anywhere else. My most recent discovery is Mariage Freres tea; I bought this vanilla-flavored green tea by them (I am a tea drinker, not a coffee-drinker) and I can't get enough of it. Sadly, Mariage Freres' official site does not do much, like, say, have much of anything. I did, however, find a lovely little Texas-based mini-chain called Sloan Hall that does sell the line online. Sadly, you can't sniff the teas online (part of the fun!), but the pictures and descriptions do help (I have my eye on the Bouddha Bleu, Marco Polo Vert, and the Oriental). They're $18 for a tin (a bit more than Celestial Seasonings, but if you're a tea lover, well worth it), and the tea is loose, so you need an infuser or a French press-type teapot (I have an excellent little one from Bodum on West 14th). As for the rest of the website, they carry a nice selection of candles (including a line of tea-influenced scents from Mariage Freres) and bath products, but since last week's website of the week was bath-and-body-oriented, I won't go into too much detail here. The important thing is the tea, and I find it amusing that the only website that appears to sell it is based in Texas. Maybe I do have something in common with those Red State people...
Father's Day Gift Guide
Father's Day is Sunday, yes, but many of these websites are offering free expedited shipping so your gift gets there on time. (And for the record, I just bought my dad's gift yesterday.) So, without further ado...
For the golf-loving dad: Just say the name "Arnold Palmer" and my dad's ears perk up. An avid golf enthusiast, he'd love this Arnold Palmer coffee table book from Vivre.
For the business-traveler dad: I travel quite a bit, and on Friday night flights, I've seen many a businessman bust out his own sleep mask, pillow, and/or blanket. Because we all know they never wash those airplane pillows or blankets, help Dad fight germs and get comfortable with this travel set.
For the frugal dad: My dad keeps his coins in a coffee can, then takes them to the bank several times a year (personally, I prefer a Jelly Belly jar). This rich man's bank is a bit more aesthetically pleasing, yet its cost won't break the proverbial bank.
For the outdoor dad: Every dad needs a set of tools for the grill, and this studly BBQ set shows everyone who's in charge. Dad's on the go? Get him this compact BBQ set.
For the dad who has everything: Well, he probably doesn't have a shave gel warmer, right?
For the dad of leisure: If he doesn't have to get up and go to work, he might as well stay in his robe until, well, however long he wants to. This lightweight Threadcountzzz robe is both stylish and supersoft.
For the wine enthusiast dad: If he doesn't already have Sideways on DVD, get him this Sideways gift set, including a bottle of pinot noir and merlot.
For the road-raging dad: If he's in the car a lot, help him fight road rage with a Sirius satellite radio. It's the wave of the future (and, let me tell you, it kicks ass).
For the high-maintenance dad: Make sure his puss looks good on the go with this Jurlique travel kit--it'll at least make Mom happy, since Dad will stop using her travel products.
For any dad: This classic jersey polo shirt from American Apparel comes in a ton of colors and in sizes from XS to XXL. Pick Dad's favorite color and you can't go wrong.
Father's Day is Sunday, yes, but many of these websites are offering free expedited shipping so your gift gets there on time. (And for the record, I just bought my dad's gift yesterday.) So, without further ado...
For the golf-loving dad: Just say the name "Arnold Palmer" and my dad's ears perk up. An avid golf enthusiast, he'd love this Arnold Palmer coffee table book from Vivre.
For the business-traveler dad: I travel quite a bit, and on Friday night flights, I've seen many a businessman bust out his own sleep mask, pillow, and/or blanket. Because we all know they never wash those airplane pillows or blankets, help Dad fight germs and get comfortable with this travel set.
For the frugal dad: My dad keeps his coins in a coffee can, then takes them to the bank several times a year (personally, I prefer a Jelly Belly jar). This rich man's bank is a bit more aesthetically pleasing, yet its cost won't break the proverbial bank.
For the outdoor dad: Every dad needs a set of tools for the grill, and this studly BBQ set shows everyone who's in charge. Dad's on the go? Get him this compact BBQ set.
For the dad who has everything: Well, he probably doesn't have a shave gel warmer, right?
For the dad of leisure: If he doesn't have to get up and go to work, he might as well stay in his robe until, well, however long he wants to. This lightweight Threadcountzzz robe is both stylish and supersoft.
For the wine enthusiast dad: If he doesn't already have Sideways on DVD, get him this Sideways gift set, including a bottle of pinot noir and merlot.
For the road-raging dad: If he's in the car a lot, help him fight road rage with a Sirius satellite radio. It's the wave of the future (and, let me tell you, it kicks ass).
For the high-maintenance dad: Make sure his puss looks good on the go with this Jurlique travel kit--it'll at least make Mom happy, since Dad will stop using her travel products.
For any dad: This classic jersey polo shirt from American Apparel comes in a ton of colors and in sizes from XS to XXL. Pick Dad's favorite color and you can't go wrong.
The week in shopping
Sale of the week: It pains me, but I doubt I'll be able to make the first-ever Y-3 sale; men's and women's apparel and accessories are 60% off. 6/14-6/18; 10-6; Adidas Showroom, 599 Broadway (at Houston), 2nd fl.
If you prefer the real stuff to her Adidas line (or upcoming H&M designs), Stella McCartney's spring/summer line of clothes and accessories is 40% off. Through 7/30; 11-7, 12:30-6 Sun.; 429 W. 14th St. (9th & Washington).
Girly, au courant Farylrobin shoes are 40%-60% off at this sale. 6/16-6/17; 10-7; 595 Broadway (Houston & Prince Sts.), 3rd fl.
Monica Botkier's coveted bags are roughly 30%-40% off at her sample sale (trigger bags are now $370, hobos are $450 and Clyde bags are $350 and up). 6/16-6/18; 11:30-7, 11:30-5 Sat.; 208 W. 29th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), ste. 501A.
Mint's cool-girl clothes are 50%-75% off. 6/15-6/17; 9-7; 252 W. 37th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 6th fl.
Celeb-friendly Me & Ro jewelry is $20-$1.000 at this cash-only sale. 6/16-6/17; 10-7; 407 Broome St. (Centre & Lafayette Sts.), 6th fl.
High-end denim and stuff to wear with it is 30% off at DDCLAB's spring sale. 11-7, noon-6 Sun.; 427 W. 14th St. (9th Ave. & Washington St.).
Girly, girly goodies from Tracy Reese are up to 60% off. 6/15-6/17; 10-6; 275 W. 39th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 11th fl.
Lauren Moffatt's cute, chic clothes are 60% off at this cash-only sale. 6/14-6/16; 10-7; 214 W. 29th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), ste. 1503.
Score cute jewelry, handbags, and scarves for $5 and up at Alexia Crawford's sample sale. 6/15-6/17; 11-7; 35 W. 36th St. (5th & 6th Aves.), 6th fl.
Lovely dresses and separates are up to 70% off at Diane von Furstenberg's sample sale. 6/14-6/17; 9-8, 9-3 Fri.; 260 5th Ave. (at 28th St.), ground floor.
Paris Hilton fave Mara Hoffman's clothing and model Manon Von Gerkan's jewelry are $39 and up. 6/17-6/19; 11-7, noon-5 Sun.; 33 Howard St. (Broadway & Crosby), 3rd fl.
Sale maven Patti Rose has this season's Oscar de la Renta, plus Gucci, Prada, Cavalli, Dior, and more in sizes 2-14 for up to 75% off. Tempting, no? 6/14-6/15; 2-7 Tue., 9-6 Wed.; 124 E. 58th St. (Park & Lex).
Indie labels Cloak, Nicole Romano, Tani Keller and others are 50%-85% off at this joint sale. 6/16-6/19; noon-8; 17 Little W. 12th St. (at 9th Ave.), 2nd fl.
Gerard Yosca's trendy costume jewelry is 50%-90% off at this cash-only sale. 6/15-6/17; 10-6, 10-1 Fri.; 39 W. 38th St. (5th & 6th Aves.), 10th fl.
Gianfranco Ferré semi-flashy (well, he's Italian) menswear and womenswear is $50 and up. 6/16-6/19; 9-6:30, 9-5 Sun.; Metropolitan Pavilion, 123 W. 18th St. (6th & 7th Aves.), 4th fl.
Gifts from Oprah fave Jay Strongwater are $40-$675. 6/16-6/17; 8:30-4; 11 E. 36th St. (5th & Madison Aves.), 2nd fl.
Select home furnishings are 40% off at Crate & Barrel; 6/17-7/17; visit website for store hours; 650 Madison (at 59th St.), 611 Broadway (at Houston).
Trendy-chick clothes and accessories (think Chloe, Matthew Williamson, C&C, True Religion) are 30%-70% off at Intermix stores throughout the city.
Check out PBTeen's awesome summer sale.
Take 20% off any one item at La Redoute when you enter code 1651-37380-1000 at checkout through 6/15.
Enter code CATALOG at checkout at Beautyhabit.com to receive an awesome deluxe fragrance sampler with any $75 purchase through 6/17.
Save 10% on your Target.com order when you enter code TCSAVETENTGT at checkout through 6/15.
This week is Lord & Taylor's private sale, so click here for coupons.
Use code T5FFDB to get free shipping at The Company Store through 6/19.
Hit Bloomingdale's for a private sale, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. 6/14-6/16.
This week, Clothingline has what sounds like an excellent sale: Ben Sherman, Evisu, Joie, Isli and more. Check website for hours. 6/14-6/17; 261 W. 36th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 2nd fl.
Hit the lovely Satya for their two-year anniversary and enjoy 30% off and treats! 6/15-6/16; 4 p.m.-9 p.m.; 330 Bleecker (W. 10th & Christopher Sts.).
Starting this week (6/14 is preview day), everything in Scoop is 40%-70% off.
Sale of the week: It pains me, but I doubt I'll be able to make the first-ever Y-3 sale; men's and women's apparel and accessories are 60% off. 6/14-6/18; 10-6; Adidas Showroom, 599 Broadway (at Houston), 2nd fl.
If you prefer the real stuff to her Adidas line (or upcoming H&M designs), Stella McCartney's spring/summer line of clothes and accessories is 40% off. Through 7/30; 11-7, 12:30-6 Sun.; 429 W. 14th St. (9th & Washington).
Girly, au courant Farylrobin shoes are 40%-60% off at this sale. 6/16-6/17; 10-7; 595 Broadway (Houston & Prince Sts.), 3rd fl.
Monica Botkier's coveted bags are roughly 30%-40% off at her sample sale (trigger bags are now $370, hobos are $450 and Clyde bags are $350 and up). 6/16-6/18; 11:30-7, 11:30-5 Sat.; 208 W. 29th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), ste. 501A.
Mint's cool-girl clothes are 50%-75% off. 6/15-6/17; 9-7; 252 W. 37th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 6th fl.
Celeb-friendly Me & Ro jewelry is $20-$1.000 at this cash-only sale. 6/16-6/17; 10-7; 407 Broome St. (Centre & Lafayette Sts.), 6th fl.
High-end denim and stuff to wear with it is 30% off at DDCLAB's spring sale. 11-7, noon-6 Sun.; 427 W. 14th St. (9th Ave. & Washington St.).
Girly, girly goodies from Tracy Reese are up to 60% off. 6/15-6/17; 10-6; 275 W. 39th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 11th fl.
Lauren Moffatt's cute, chic clothes are 60% off at this cash-only sale. 6/14-6/16; 10-7; 214 W. 29th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), ste. 1503.
Score cute jewelry, handbags, and scarves for $5 and up at Alexia Crawford's sample sale. 6/15-6/17; 11-7; 35 W. 36th St. (5th & 6th Aves.), 6th fl.
Lovely dresses and separates are up to 70% off at Diane von Furstenberg's sample sale. 6/14-6/17; 9-8, 9-3 Fri.; 260 5th Ave. (at 28th St.), ground floor.
Paris Hilton fave Mara Hoffman's clothing and model Manon Von Gerkan's jewelry are $39 and up. 6/17-6/19; 11-7, noon-5 Sun.; 33 Howard St. (Broadway & Crosby), 3rd fl.
Sale maven Patti Rose has this season's Oscar de la Renta, plus Gucci, Prada, Cavalli, Dior, and more in sizes 2-14 for up to 75% off. Tempting, no? 6/14-6/15; 2-7 Tue., 9-6 Wed.; 124 E. 58th St. (Park & Lex).
Indie labels Cloak, Nicole Romano, Tani Keller and others are 50%-85% off at this joint sale. 6/16-6/19; noon-8; 17 Little W. 12th St. (at 9th Ave.), 2nd fl.
Gerard Yosca's trendy costume jewelry is 50%-90% off at this cash-only sale. 6/15-6/17; 10-6, 10-1 Fri.; 39 W. 38th St. (5th & 6th Aves.), 10th fl.
Gianfranco Ferré semi-flashy (well, he's Italian) menswear and womenswear is $50 and up. 6/16-6/19; 9-6:30, 9-5 Sun.; Metropolitan Pavilion, 123 W. 18th St. (6th & 7th Aves.), 4th fl.
Gifts from Oprah fave Jay Strongwater are $40-$675. 6/16-6/17; 8:30-4; 11 E. 36th St. (5th & Madison Aves.), 2nd fl.
Select home furnishings are 40% off at Crate & Barrel; 6/17-7/17; visit website for store hours; 650 Madison (at 59th St.), 611 Broadway (at Houston).
Trendy-chick clothes and accessories (think Chloe, Matthew Williamson, C&C, True Religion) are 30%-70% off at Intermix stores throughout the city.
Check out PBTeen's awesome summer sale.
Take 20% off any one item at La Redoute when you enter code 1651-37380-1000 at checkout through 6/15.
Enter code CATALOG at checkout at Beautyhabit.com to receive an awesome deluxe fragrance sampler with any $75 purchase through 6/17.
Save 10% on your Target.com order when you enter code TCSAVETENTGT at checkout through 6/15.
This week is Lord & Taylor's private sale, so click here for coupons.
Use code T5FFDB to get free shipping at The Company Store through 6/19.
Hit Bloomingdale's for a private sale, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. 6/14-6/16.
This week, Clothingline has what sounds like an excellent sale: Ben Sherman, Evisu, Joie, Isli and more. Check website for hours. 6/14-6/17; 261 W. 36th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 2nd fl.
Hit the lovely Satya for their two-year anniversary and enjoy 30% off and treats! 6/15-6/16; 4 p.m.-9 p.m.; 330 Bleecker (W. 10th & Christopher Sts.).
Starting this week (6/14 is preview day), everything in Scoop is 40%-70% off.
Tuesday, June 07, 2005
Website of the week
Whenever I have guests in town and am doing my perfunctory tour of the West Village (my neighborhood), I love to take them down my favorite part of Christopher Street, between 6th and 7th Avenues. Not only is this stretch incredibly charming and quintessentially "Village", it's also home to fabulous stores like Albertine, Brooklyn Handknit, and one of my favorites, Aedes De Venustas, whose website I only recently discovered. And it kicks ass. I love Aedes itself because it's a transporting experience--with so much good-smelling stuff and its luxe, dark interior, you almost forget you're in stinky ol' New York. Aedes stocks lots of fancy-schmancy European fragrance, skincare, home fragrance, and bath and body lines, from ones you know and love (Creed, Diptyque, Comptoir Sud Pacifique) to ones you've probably never heard of (Cote Bastide, Hierbas de Ibiza, Les Bains du Marais), many of which have been around for centuries. For cult fragrance lovers, there's L'Artisan Parfumeur, Damien Bash, and Nanadebary; for cult skincare lovers, there's grape-based Caudalie, the organic Doux Me, and the homeopathic Jurlique. Shopping is pretty easy; choose from fragrances, home fragrances, skincare, and bath & body, then shop by brand. I'm a huge fan of Jurlique's Rosewater Freshener, great for us sensitive-skin gals; I'm also a fan of this Aesop Rose hair & scalp masque. I'm intrigued by the cult fave Nanadebary perfume and its sexy bottle (great for your dresser), the Costes candle, and Damien Bash's entire line. Now, you're probably thinking, "This is all great, Cheryl, but you're missing a major point: How do I know how anything smells?" Which is an excellent question. For $15, Aedes will ship you seven fragrance samples of whatever you want (details to be read here). They can't send samples of candles, lotions, etc., but they do carry perfume versions of many, so ask for that instead. You also get seven free samples with any order, so you could get an old standby, like a Diptyque candle, and get your samples that way. (See how clever that is?) Um, or you could go to the store and smell the stuff yourself. Either option is equally fantastic and indulgent.
Whenever I have guests in town and am doing my perfunctory tour of the West Village (my neighborhood), I love to take them down my favorite part of Christopher Street, between 6th and 7th Avenues. Not only is this stretch incredibly charming and quintessentially "Village", it's also home to fabulous stores like Albertine, Brooklyn Handknit, and one of my favorites, Aedes De Venustas, whose website I only recently discovered. And it kicks ass. I love Aedes itself because it's a transporting experience--with so much good-smelling stuff and its luxe, dark interior, you almost forget you're in stinky ol' New York. Aedes stocks lots of fancy-schmancy European fragrance, skincare, home fragrance, and bath and body lines, from ones you know and love (Creed, Diptyque, Comptoir Sud Pacifique) to ones you've probably never heard of (Cote Bastide, Hierbas de Ibiza, Les Bains du Marais), many of which have been around for centuries. For cult fragrance lovers, there's L'Artisan Parfumeur, Damien Bash, and Nanadebary; for cult skincare lovers, there's grape-based Caudalie, the organic Doux Me, and the homeopathic Jurlique. Shopping is pretty easy; choose from fragrances, home fragrances, skincare, and bath & body, then shop by brand. I'm a huge fan of Jurlique's Rosewater Freshener, great for us sensitive-skin gals; I'm also a fan of this Aesop Rose hair & scalp masque. I'm intrigued by the cult fave Nanadebary perfume and its sexy bottle (great for your dresser), the Costes candle, and Damien Bash's entire line. Now, you're probably thinking, "This is all great, Cheryl, but you're missing a major point: How do I know how anything smells?" Which is an excellent question. For $15, Aedes will ship you seven fragrance samples of whatever you want (details to be read here). They can't send samples of candles, lotions, etc., but they do carry perfume versions of many, so ask for that instead. You also get seven free samples with any order, so you could get an old standby, like a Diptyque candle, and get your samples that way. (See how clever that is?) Um, or you could go to the store and smell the stuff yourself. Either option is equally fantastic and indulgent.
Monday, June 06, 2005
The week in shopping
Sale of the week: I love love love Inhabit's sweaters, so I will definitely be checking out this sale, where most goods are under $100. 6/7-6/10; 10-7; 1441 Broadway (40th & 41st Sts.), ste. 3101.
Need awesome-fitting pants? Hit Alvin Valley for the goods (plus skirts, jackets, and tops) for up to 80% off. 6/9-6/12; noon-6; 632 Broadway (Houston & Bleecker Sts.), 6th fl.
Get cool clothes from Frenchie Catherine Malandrino for a pittance (well, not quite): dresses are $199, tops are $99-$149. 6/7-6/10; 9-7, 9-5 Fri., 589 8th Ave. (at 39th St.), 2nd fl.
Miguelina's pretty, feminine frocks are $35-$275. 6/7-6/10; 11-6; 20 W. 36th St. (5th & 6th Aves.), 6th floor.
Get fancy knit sweaters from Whim at wholesale and below. 6/7-6/9; 9-7, 9-6 Thurs.; 231 W. 39th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), ste. 1016.
Hey, it must be sweater week! 'Cause it's 90 degress outside! Nevertheless, Autumn Cashmere tees, cardigans, pullovers, and such are up to 70% off. 6/8-6/10; 9-6; 231 W. 39th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), ste. 1006.
For those who like to figure out how to wear their clothes, Issey Miyake's architectural, free-form collection is 40% off. 6/9-7/25; 992 Madison Ave. (at 77th St.), 119 Hudson St. (at N. Moore St.).
Need accessories? Hit Metropolitan Design Group for Philip Crangi, Mark Snider, and Judy Ross for 40%-60% off. Cash only. 6/8-6/9; 9-6; 80 W. 40th St. (at 6th Ave.), 8th fl.
Lowercase-lovin' e. harcourt has soaps, candles, and home accessories for 40%-70%. 6/8-6/12; noon-7, noon-6 Sun.; 219 Mott St. (at Spring St.).
Alice & Trixie (not to be confused with Alice + Olivia) has girly stuff for 50%-80% off (that's $25 and up). 6/7-6/9; 10-7; 231 W. 39th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), ste. 918.
Save 30%-40% on much spring/summer merch at Barneys New York.
Click here for Beautyhabit's June specials.
Summer bedding is on sale at PBteen.
Got a big bonus? Blow it at Kirna Zabete. 96 Greene St. (Prince & Spring Sts.).
Take 10% anything from La Redoute when you enter code 1651-51409-1039 at checkout through 6/10.
Celebrate author Chelsea Handler's book My Horizontal Life at the lower Fifth Club Monaco and take 20% off your purchases. 6/8; 6:30-8:30 p.m.; 160 5th Ave.
Save up to 50% at eLuxury.com's European designer sale.
It's Herman Miller sale time! Save 10% on the entire line at Retromodern.com, Highbrowfurniture.com, and pretty much any store that sells the line, through 6/18.
Take 10% off everything (take that, Herman Miller!) at Design Within Reach.
Save up to 80% at Bluefly's Designer clearance.
Save 10% at Target.com though 6/8 when you enter code TCTENJUNESAV at checkout.
Lord & Taylor coupons. Yay.
Nordstrom's famous Half-Yearly Sale starts 6/8.
The First Call sale at Neiman Marcus is in full effect, and let me tell you, there is some good stuff. My store charge is itching to be used.
Gucci's spring/summer sale started today. Expect mayhem.
Stay at home and avoid the Botoxed ladies-who-lunch when you shop Bergdorf's first-ever online sale. (I hate to say it, but it's even better than Neiman Marcus's sale.)
Sale of the week: I love love love Inhabit's sweaters, so I will definitely be checking out this sale, where most goods are under $100. 6/7-6/10; 10-7; 1441 Broadway (40th & 41st Sts.), ste. 3101.
Need awesome-fitting pants? Hit Alvin Valley for the goods (plus skirts, jackets, and tops) for up to 80% off. 6/9-6/12; noon-6; 632 Broadway (Houston & Bleecker Sts.), 6th fl.
Get cool clothes from Frenchie Catherine Malandrino for a pittance (well, not quite): dresses are $199, tops are $99-$149. 6/7-6/10; 9-7, 9-5 Fri., 589 8th Ave. (at 39th St.), 2nd fl.
Miguelina's pretty, feminine frocks are $35-$275. 6/7-6/10; 11-6; 20 W. 36th St. (5th & 6th Aves.), 6th floor.
Get fancy knit sweaters from Whim at wholesale and below. 6/7-6/9; 9-7, 9-6 Thurs.; 231 W. 39th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), ste. 1016.
Hey, it must be sweater week! 'Cause it's 90 degress outside! Nevertheless, Autumn Cashmere tees, cardigans, pullovers, and such are up to 70% off. 6/8-6/10; 9-6; 231 W. 39th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), ste. 1006.
For those who like to figure out how to wear their clothes, Issey Miyake's architectural, free-form collection is 40% off. 6/9-7/25; 992 Madison Ave. (at 77th St.), 119 Hudson St. (at N. Moore St.).
Need accessories? Hit Metropolitan Design Group for Philip Crangi, Mark Snider, and Judy Ross for 40%-60% off. Cash only. 6/8-6/9; 9-6; 80 W. 40th St. (at 6th Ave.), 8th fl.
Lowercase-lovin' e. harcourt has soaps, candles, and home accessories for 40%-70%. 6/8-6/12; noon-7, noon-6 Sun.; 219 Mott St. (at Spring St.).
Alice & Trixie (not to be confused with Alice + Olivia) has girly stuff for 50%-80% off (that's $25 and up). 6/7-6/9; 10-7; 231 W. 39th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), ste. 918.
Save 30%-40% on much spring/summer merch at Barneys New York.
Click here for Beautyhabit's June specials.
Summer bedding is on sale at PBteen.
Got a big bonus? Blow it at Kirna Zabete. 96 Greene St. (Prince & Spring Sts.).
Take 10% anything from La Redoute when you enter code 1651-51409-1039 at checkout through 6/10.
Celebrate author Chelsea Handler's book My Horizontal Life at the lower Fifth Club Monaco and take 20% off your purchases. 6/8; 6:30-8:30 p.m.; 160 5th Ave.
Save up to 50% at eLuxury.com's European designer sale.
It's Herman Miller sale time! Save 10% on the entire line at Retromodern.com, Highbrowfurniture.com, and pretty much any store that sells the line, through 6/18.
Take 10% off everything (take that, Herman Miller!) at Design Within Reach.
Save up to 80% at Bluefly's Designer clearance.
Save 10% at Target.com though 6/8 when you enter code TCTENJUNESAV at checkout.
Lord & Taylor coupons. Yay.
Nordstrom's famous Half-Yearly Sale starts 6/8.
The First Call sale at Neiman Marcus is in full effect, and let me tell you, there is some good stuff. My store charge is itching to be used.
Gucci's spring/summer sale started today. Expect mayhem.
Stay at home and avoid the Botoxed ladies-who-lunch when you shop Bergdorf's first-ever online sale. (I hate to say it, but it's even better than Neiman Marcus's sale.)
Thursday, June 02, 2005
My last post about bags--I promise
So, yes, I will admit that my new bag kick has been all Bottega Veneta--my new summer bag is a knockoff of their oro cabat tote, as I detailed in this post. I've never really been a big fan of woven leather until now--for some reason, it looks really fresh yet classic to me. There's also a high level of workmanship involved, which makes the bags harder to knock off (as opposed to, say, Louis Vuitton or Balenciaga bags). So while I'm loving Bottega Veneta lately, it is a bit, well, pricey (most of their bags are over $1,000; the oro cabat is nearly $5,000). So I was happy to read about Andrea Brueckner in Daily Candy this week. Made of basket-weave leather and available in three shapes (saddle, tote, bucket) and neutral colors, her bags are like a hipper, more accessible Bottega Veneta. Her woven styles (check 'em out here) are a not-so-bad $325-$515, and as I discovered on her website, she also makes those cool ruffle bags, which are in the $300 range. Much of her line is available now at Active Endeavors, a site that fills me with pride for my native Chicago. So even though I just got my summer bag, I'm already thinking about fall...sign me up for the large hobo in tan.
So, yes, I will admit that my new bag kick has been all Bottega Veneta--my new summer bag is a knockoff of their oro cabat tote, as I detailed in this post. I've never really been a big fan of woven leather until now--for some reason, it looks really fresh yet classic to me. There's also a high level of workmanship involved, which makes the bags harder to knock off (as opposed to, say, Louis Vuitton or Balenciaga bags). So while I'm loving Bottega Veneta lately, it is a bit, well, pricey (most of their bags are over $1,000; the oro cabat is nearly $5,000). So I was happy to read about Andrea Brueckner in Daily Candy this week. Made of basket-weave leather and available in three shapes (saddle, tote, bucket) and neutral colors, her bags are like a hipper, more accessible Bottega Veneta. Her woven styles (check 'em out here) are a not-so-bad $325-$515, and as I discovered on her website, she also makes those cool ruffle bags, which are in the $300 range. Much of her line is available now at Active Endeavors, a site that fills me with pride for my native Chicago. So even though I just got my summer bag, I'm already thinking about fall...sign me up for the large hobo in tan.
Website of the week
As I've already noted, I was in Boston for Memorial Day weekend. And while I tend to rave about Jasmine Sola, there's another store I like to hit on Newbury Street (well, aside from Louis Boston), and, like Jasmine Sola, it also has two branches on Newbury Street, all on the same block. That store is Thom Brown; one branch is all trendy shoes and bags and the other has trendy clothes. The website is chock full of cheap, cheap, cheap trendy shoes, with some clothes thrown in (and even stuff for guys too). You can shop by brand or by style (there are several types of footwear to choose from, but women's apparel and accessories are a bit sparse). Footwear-wise, typical department-store brands like Chinese Laundry and Steve Madden are represented, as well as cool athletic shoes like Gola and Puma, and ultra-trendies Penny & Kenny and Seychelles. Remember Dollhouse shoes from the finale of Project Runway? Judging by this pair, they're pretty cute (and cheap!). Even though I've professed my hatred for espadrilles many times, I'm starting to change my mind, due to supercute styles like this Jeffrey Campbell wedge. These Pink Studio mules are in the so-ugly-they're-cute category (well, unofficially), but they look super-comfy. And I'm definitely ordering this Rebels wedge, an excellent Marc Jacobs knockoff (it comes in pink as well), at a super-nice price ($60 as opposed to $200). Stores like this give me hope that there are fashionable options outside of New York, although NYC will always be my #1 fashion destination. Well, for now.
As I've already noted, I was in Boston for Memorial Day weekend. And while I tend to rave about Jasmine Sola, there's another store I like to hit on Newbury Street (well, aside from Louis Boston), and, like Jasmine Sola, it also has two branches on Newbury Street, all on the same block. That store is Thom Brown; one branch is all trendy shoes and bags and the other has trendy clothes. The website is chock full of cheap, cheap, cheap trendy shoes, with some clothes thrown in (and even stuff for guys too). You can shop by brand or by style (there are several types of footwear to choose from, but women's apparel and accessories are a bit sparse). Footwear-wise, typical department-store brands like Chinese Laundry and Steve Madden are represented, as well as cool athletic shoes like Gola and Puma, and ultra-trendies Penny & Kenny and Seychelles. Remember Dollhouse shoes from the finale of Project Runway? Judging by this pair, they're pretty cute (and cheap!). Even though I've professed my hatred for espadrilles many times, I'm starting to change my mind, due to supercute styles like this Jeffrey Campbell wedge. These Pink Studio mules are in the so-ugly-they're-cute category (well, unofficially), but they look super-comfy. And I'm definitely ordering this Rebels wedge, an excellent Marc Jacobs knockoff (it comes in pink as well), at a super-nice price ($60 as opposed to $200). Stores like this give me hope that there are fashionable options outside of New York, although NYC will always be my #1 fashion destination. Well, for now.
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