Smythson Leather Notebook: Things I Have

In what seems like an oxymoronic product offering, Smythson (the storied English stationer) has created a small notebook embossed with the word "Recessionista". Now, it just so happens that I am on the hunt for a small leather notebook... and this one, despite it's humourous messaging, fit the bill.

Of course I have plenty of notebooks, but nothing that is compact enough to fit in my bag for those moments when you're inspired and need to write something down! This delivery from Smythson accomplishes that. I was of course drawn to the Fuschia leather. The tongue-in-cheek sentiment on the front just made me smile.

I picked mine up at colette (yes another Paris purchase), but they're now on sale at the Smythson website. Check out the rest of their fun pieces!

Damir Doma Infinity Jacket: Things I Want

I really like Damir Doma's draping and sheaths and wraparound pieces... there is an implied comfort in being cocooned but also an edginess and sophistication in the construction.

Recently an e-mail popped in from LN-CC about their site's sale -- and I noticed Doma was listed as one of the designers on offer. So I went over and found this amazing infinity jacket. Now the Pound to Dollar conversion is not the most agreeable, so I'm not sure I can make this mine just yet. But I love it!

Check out the rest of the Damir Doma pieces on sale at LN-CC: http://www.ln-cc.com/men/damir-doma/icat/damirdoma/

Forage Plaid Bowtie: Things I Have

Bowties. This holiday season I have doubled the number that I own! In addition to the great Carrot & Gibbs tie from my Mom, I received this fantastic Forage tie from my good friend Jamie.

I wasn't familiar with Forage before, but from their website it seems they do a lot of vintage inspired ties. And the Forage brand is connected to a great group called "Something's Hiding in Here" that features a lot of quirky & fun products.

This tie is perfect for Spring -- lightweight and a great green/yellow plaid. I can't wait to try it out at a garden cocktail party.

You must check out their other ties -- the 1940's yellow plaid is also pretty sweet!

Bowtie from Carrot & Gibbs: Things I Have

One of my Christmas gifts was a bow tie... but not just any bow tie, it is a bright paisley number that has buttons to adjust the size and is made in Boulder, Colorado. Tres bien!

From Carrot & Gibbs, this tie is a great addition to my growing collection and definitely has more pop than anything else I have.

I wasn't familiar with Carrot & Gibbs until now but their website has a great selection of their wares, plus tips on how to tie your tie and a list of historical figures who favored this particular piece of neckwear.

Supra Hightops: Things I Want

Bring on the hightops! I just keep finding pairs I love and until my budget allows me to stock up on Pierre Hardy and Lanvin, I think Supra may just be the perfect thing.

While in Paris (I'm now sadly en route back Stateside) I ran across a shop called Black Rainbow, in the Marais. It was totally my kind of space: minimal, stocked with Bathing Ape, decks, and some great high tops.

These babies from their holiday collection totally caught my eye. I really like Supra's back panel around the heel and the side detail. And all of their shoes were around 100 EUR. Can't go wrong!

So now I love Supra (check them out here) but I also had to investigate this Black Rainbow. Turns out their shop on Rue des Archives is just one facet of the company... they are also a creative agency, design their own collections, and operate an online store and blog. Boom!

Stay tuned for more on Supra, and if you can tell me more about Black Rainbow, I'd love to hear it.

Leather Espadrilles: Things I Have

Okay so it may be cold and rainy in Paris, but I now cannot wait for summer. I just bought some leather espadrilles!

Two summers ago, in the South of France, I bought a pair of espadrilles for 5 EUR. I've worn them constantly since then and as a result have worn them out. So I knew I'd need to pick up a new pair before warm weather arrives...

Then today I was walking through the Marais and saw a shoe repair shop with espadrilles stacked in the window. I went in and of course bought a new pair of canvas ones, but they also had some in leather.

They are amazing! Can't wait to rock them out on the beach!

Tweed Hat by Flechet: Things I Have

I'm not normally a big wearer of hats -- I have two, one black wool (from Agnes B) for winter and a brimmed hat from Engineered Garments that I wear in the summer. But the other day I was at BHV in Paris and saw this amazing tweed hat.

Sure I felt a bit like I was in "Newsies", but it fit me perfectly and it's made in France by a Parisian brand started in 1859.

The brand, Flechet, was begun by Gabriel Flechet in 1859 and at one point had 700 employees. I liked the idea of not only supporting local industry but also that this can be my new cold weather hat. The wool is thick and warm and perfect for winter days in the city.

Here's a little more info, If you want to know about Flechet (en francais).

Kitsune x James Heeley Candle: Things I Have

I'm committed to leaving Paris the way I came -- with carry-on baggage. So my purchases must be small + selective. Last night I popped into colette, the ever cool concept store that was packed with people clamoring for last minute gifts.

I saw some amazing things (loved a short sweater vest by Henry Holland), and they had a fantastic display upstairs for Christopher Kane.

But I decided on walking away with just a couple of small items, one of which was this candle done by Kitsune in collaboration with perfumer James Heeley. It's mint scented, which I found to be really refreshing, and I loved the sophisticated subtlety of the black glass.

Kitsune is all over the place these days with fantastic collaborations, so it was great to see one more. And great to see colette supporting fellow French labels.

The colette website is where you can find out more info on the candle collab, but be warned, you will start drooling at all of the other items they have on offer.

Thom Browne in Wonderland: Things I Love

So this *might* be my second Thom Browne related post of the week, but don't judge. The man is just kind of amazing. And this shoot for Wonderland is such a perfect expression of Browne's character and aesthetic. I'm only slightly obsessed...

Although I can't decide which I prefer between the sharp black & white shots with paper hats and masks, or the glossly colorful ones.

I've written in the past about this collection and how much I love the infusion of nautical icons. I also think the sequined plaid jacket is brilliant. Browne took one of his mainstay prints and the sequin monster just threw up all over it. I love it.

You must go to The Fashionisto and check out the full editorial.

Moncler Gamme Bleu Padded Blazer: Things I Want

File this one under: When I win Powerball. I am of course a Browne-ophile (of course meaning those who have long obsessed over Thom Browne). And I've already written on how his collaborations with Moncler really do marry together the best attributes of both brands. Such a great extension, and one that I feel has also really lifted both of them.

Now comes this padded blazer which is just fantastic. Navy (a Browne go-to color), with the signature Moncler padded stitching and right shoulder emblem.

As I head to Paris this weekend I think this is one piece that would definitely make it's way into my bag. But alas, I'll just have to lust after it for now...

Check out a few more shots at Selectism!

Florsheim by Duckie Brown Wingtips: Things I Want

There are a pair of Gucci loafers I've had for almost 8 years. They are by far my favorite shoes and I continually take them into my local shoe repair to get them cleaned or re-soled. Sam (the owner of said shoe repair) warns me that one day he won't be able to fix them and I will have to just replace these amazing loafers that I've walked in all over the world.

So in an attempt to see what could be a viable replacement, I've started scouting shoes. I recently came across some items from the Florsheim by Duckie Brown collaboration, and have to say there were some good options! I've always enjoyed Duckie Brown's collections for their own label and their work with Florsheim is a great extension of that.

Of everything I saw, these laceless wings were my favorite. They come in a variety of colors but I'm partial to navy. I really like the detailing, keeping these like a traditional wingtip. But then they've left out the laces and put in an elastic tongue, which I think gives the shoe that subtle design pop.

You really should check out the rest of the collection (the brogues were also pretty awesome), here at the dedicated Florsheim by Duckie Brown website. Happy shoe hunting!

Hayashi x Vans Hightops: Things I Want

Another pair of shoes for me to salivate over. Feeding into my ongoing obsession with hightops comes this collaboration between Japanese artist Taka Hayashi and Vans.

I love the mix of materials (the leather outer piece really makes the whole shoe). The additional details are also really nice -- the loop on the top (which always helps me pull the shoe on), the design on the toe, and the texture on the leather piece.

Well done for Vans and a great item I'd love to add to my closet!

Check it out here on Hypebeast!

Tweed Coat by Billy Reid: Things I Want

I guess I'm going to be on a Billy Reid kick this week. It is all because of the shop Bloomingdale's created for his wares... everything appealed to me!

I've already written about the Levi's x Billy Reid wool coat I bought. What I didn't tell you was that I was equally tempted by this awesome tweed sports coat.

I tried it on over and over, finally putting it on hold. But alas, I did not go back to make it mine. Yet.

The coat had great construction, fit me perfectly through the shoulders and wasn't too boxy (a dilemma I often face). I loved the warmth and roughness of the tweed. And for an added bonus, I loved the colorful striped lining. This is a piece I could easily put into frequent rotation!

You can also check it out on the Billy Reid website, along with the rest of his F/W collection. Oh and I wouldn't say no to some of his bowties either!

Bootlegger Khakis from Bonobos: Things I Have

You might get tired of hearing me talk about Bonobos. They rock. Their pants (and shorts) are amazing. The fit is incredible and the funky fabric linings keep me smiling whenever I wear them.

So since I've been on the hunt for some new cotton pants that are good enough for work, but that I can also wear casually, I headed to the Bonobos site.

Their site is super easy to navigate, and they make it really simple to select your pants based on fabric, fit, and color. I just picked up these Bootlegger khakis and love them...

You should do yourself a big favor and check out their offerings. Bonobos has expanded from pants into suits, shirts, and they also curate goods you'll love from other labels. These guys do it right!

Levi's x Billy Reid Coat: Things I Have

There has been a lot of talk lately about Billy Reid. He won GQ Designer of the Year and then just recently was named the winner of the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund. Those are some pretty big nods!

Coming out of his GQ win, Reid did a collaboration with Levi's. I hadn't actually seen any of it in store yet (I pretty much shop for a living, how did this escape me?), until I was at Bloomingdale's this week (more on that later -- I was impressed with the array of labels they offered).

Today I went back and tried on a piece from the Levi's x Billy Reid collection that had caught my eye, a thick black wool coat. It was amazing.

It's a short coat, hitting at the waist, and has great structure around the shoulders so fits perfectly. I tried it on with just my t-shirt, with a hoodie, and with a sweater and it looked great with each.

Needless to say I grabbed it and ran, and am now super excited to wear it as the weather gets colder. All in all, there were some really great pieces from both the Levi's collab and Reid's signature line. And I will now keep checking into Bloomingdale's to make sure I see the next arrival!

Go to Reid's website and see this and the rest of his great work. And congrats Billy on all of the recent accolades!

Cape from BBC: Things I Want

Okay, don't laugh. But I have been sort of fascinated with capes for a while now. I even convinced my friend Jamie to try one on at Uniqlo (the armholes were too high). But there is something about the flow and the flexibility of a cape that intrigues me.

Luckily one of my favorite labels (the Pharrell fronted) Billionaire Boys Club has come out with a pretty rockin' cape.

Camel is (in my opinion) the best color for a cape, totally versatile. This one comes with a hood, which is the only part I'm not too sure about... but I'll have to try it on to see!

BBC has a store in SoHo and you can read more about this cape at Hypebeast.

Vincent Schoepfer Spring 2011: Things I Want

A couple of years ago I came across shots from Vincent Schoepfer's lookbook, right around the time he started showing at Capsule. I thought the photos were really fun & playful, and the clothes looked right up my alley.

Since then I've been following the season-by-season merriment that Vincent puts out and I have to say he does a great job keeping it whimsical!

Now I was recently going through his latest collection and I really love the athletic nature of the shoot and the pieces, a couple of which reminded me of Alexander Wang's whole 'football' theme last year.

I've included my favorite below -- the quilted stitching of the shirt, with the mesh shoulders. So cool! I want it!

Check out the rest of the collection here at Fashionisto, or go to the designer's website and enjoy his past collections too!

Karl Lagerfeld Voodoo Doll: Things I Have

Yes, I bought a Karl Lagerfeld voodoo doll. But I need to learn the opposite of voodoo... where I can channel positivity and even further fashion brilliance via my doll.

This story started two days ago, while I was in Brazil on a business trip. Walking through a department store at the Iguatemi Mall, I came upon a pop-up shop full of curious items. It is apparently an extension of Sao Paulo Fashion Week and was chock full of accessories, design gadgets, and voodoo dolls.

They had Audrey Hepburn, David Bowie, Madonna, Lady Gaga (in her bubble dress) and of course the Kaiser. I just couldn't resist. And not only is Karl keeping me company as I continue my trip, I figure he can become my own talisman, who I photograph at each of my global destinations.

And to start it off, here he is pictured on the window sill in my hotel room in Buenos Aires. Hola Karl!

Osklen Shoes: Things I Want

Ever since my first trip to Brazil, I've been a fan of Osklen. They have a really casual surfer vibe (not surprisingly, as the brand was formed in Rio) and to me their stores always smell like the ocean.

They also have some really unique techniques in making their wares... I'm a big fan of their fish skin shoes, something that you won't see anywhere else and they are using local Brazilian products (I have a rockin' pair of high tops).

Well I'm in Sao Paulo again right now and yesterday I spent a good amount of time trying on things at Osklen. Found some great t-shirts, a pair of really nice linen shorts, and a PVC tote bag that is perfect for the beach. But of course the one thing I wanted the most, I could not have. These shoes below...

I loved the mid-high top, the elastic on the side to just pull them on, and the worn canvas feel to them. But the bunched up fabric on the top (Osklen calls it "wrinkled") is what I found to be the coolest design feature. I tried on a size 44 but they were, as expected, too big.

The quest continues (maybe I'll get to another Osklen store before I leave Brazil). But you can check them out here on the website: http://store.osklen.com/loja/produto-27866-47-bota-iate-wrinkle-lona-stone.aspx

Bom dia!

Lanvin for H + M: Things I Want

As many of you know, this is not my first time drooling over an H + M collab... you may remember (perhaps as fondly as I do) the time I stood on Queens Road in Hong Kong to try and snag a piece from the CdG collection. And I was successful!

So now of course comes the collection done by Lanvin and I cannot wait! Today I finally saw photos of both the women's and men's pieces and they were, in a word, exquisite.

For me I really want one of the tuxedo jackets, a pair of the shiny blue shoes, and this amazing navy coat. Please retail gods... let me have it!

I love this coat because of the length, the simplicity of the design (at least what I can tell from the photo) and the gold buttons. Perfect for winter (when it does finally arrive).

Now, check out all of the photos here at NY Mag -- complete with prices so you can start saving. And begin to figure out how long you'll have to camp out in front of your local H + M to get some of this goodness.

Bon courage!

Jacket from Billionaire Boys Club: Things I Want

Okay, so for all of my high-browed talk about couture and color and coordination I am admittedly a sucker for something garish and contrasting. One summer I only bought shirts that had a floral theme. Yes, seriously. Luckily Paul Smith was doing some fun stuff that season.

So in that vein, I am always attracted to pieces from Billionaire Boys Club (brainchild of Pharrell Williams). It started last year with their hunting pattern jacket that I could not stop thinking about. Never got it but wow that could have been amazing.

Well now I've seen this wool check double-breasted jacket they have released and I kind of love it. Granted it's not as eye catching as the hunting jacket, but the fairly subtle (and large) check, the embroidered horse, and of course the double breast which adds some flare to the whole thing.

I could see myself rockin' this with some worn jeans and brown boots.

I found this via Hypebeast (quelle surprise!): BBC Hunting Jacket... go check it out!

Sweater by Gant Rugger: Things I Have

What can I say... Gant is blowing up right now! What a resurgence into the U.S. market. Between their Collection line, Rugger, and the amazing pieces from their collaboration with Michael Bastian (the subject of a future "Things I Have" post), Gant has really leveraged the prep/trad trend, the clamoring for heritage, and the exact right price point to keep customer engaged.

Last month I was in New York and visited the Gant Rugger store on Bleecker. While small, it exuded a great sense of the brand. I initially was so enthralled with the lacrosse print green sweater from the MB collection but at the Rugger store I felt the cream and blue sweater shown below had more versatility. I was sold.

I think the fit is great. The warmth of the wool is a bit much for the L.A. weather but I am sure my winter travels will take me to a worthy climate.

As you can tell from this glowing report, I would suggest you check out the Gant Rugger website: http://www.gant.com/gantrugger/#/collection but for sure find a store near you that carries the line. It is on fire and you'll quickly see why!

Enjoy!

GQ Russia September 2010: Things I Love

One of my favorite blog discoveries is The Fashionisto, which scans and shares amazing editorial, new models, and fashion photography from around the world. I know I've referenced them many times before, and I couldn't resist another turn when they recently posted shots from GQ Russia's September issue.

I mean this whole spread is just amazing! First of all they're using a face I keep seeing around, and who is definitely growing on me, AJ Abualrub. He is just so versatile in the looks he pulls off!

Second, they pulled in some simple and clear pieces that really showed off Fall 2010, with looks from Tom Ford, Phillip Lim and Prada (shown below). In fact the pic I posted here is a coat I have been obsessing over for a while... Prada just outdid themselves with this one.

You have to check out the rest of the photos at: http://thefashionisto.com/aj-abualrub-james-hampson-helge-gjerstad-by-walter-chin-for-gq-russia-september-2010/#more-76529. Enjoy it!

Kitsune S/S 2011: Things I Want

I've long been a fan of Parisian based label Kitsune. I still dream about the shoes they collaborated on with Pierre Hardy. And their super fun promotional videos for new collections (Video by Kitsune).

So now... they've released images from their S/S 2011 collection and I love it! Casual, fun, man about town with a slight European flair.

My favorite look was definitely the two toned jacket, shown below. I love the soft colors and the light to dark contrast.

Check out the rest of the collection at Selectism: http://www.selectism.com/news/2010/07/22/kitsune-springsummer-2011-collection-the-reporter/.

Enjoy!

Dior Couture Fall 2010: Things I Love

So the Fall 2010 Couture shows just happened in Paris... Givenchy, Armani, Chanel, Elie Saab, and more. But I think hands down the most amaaaaaazing collection was from John Galliano for Christian Dior. Amazing.

The whole collection was floral (as was the set) and you got inspiration of petals and colors and textures. The models had their heads wrapped in cellophane (like a bouquet perhaps?). And their hair was flipped and high and beautifully styled.

I've pasted a couple of my favorite looks below:

Total brilliance!

Check out the rest of the collection at Style.com: http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/F2010CTR-CDIOR

Chair from Canada: Things I Have

Falling into more of 'design' than 'fashion', here is a new chair I bought for my bedroom.

I walked passed the store OK over the weekend and saw the chairs displayed outside, in a bevy of colors. Gray, blue, green, and of course my favorite... yellow! I couldn't resist! I stopped by the store three times that day (luckily it is around the corner from my house) to look at the chair and then finally had to buy one.

Knowing me, it wasn't much of a decision on which color to get. I loved the brightnesss of the yellow and knew immediately it would sit in the corner of my bedroom (as pictured below).

The salesman told me it is made in Canada and that the design has been produced since the 50's. The plastic seat just fits onto the ring-shaped frame, and then you are set to sit.

Now, yellow was my first color choice but I may go back and get more of these chairs. Then the quandry will become, what color is next...

In the meantime, check out OK's website for more home and gift inspiration: http://okstore.la/gallery.php

Thom Browne S/S 2011: Things I Love

Where do I begin... I think I've written after every single Thom Browne show to say that I wish I could have been there. It is so much more than just seeing a collection -- it is an experience. From his Pitti show with 40 models sitting at desks, to showcasing a S/S collection at an indoor swimming pool, to models sleeping on cots to open the show... Thom does it all!

This season he moved the show for his own line (versus the collection he does for Moncler) to Paris. And he put the models in spacesuits. And they had yellow glitter lips (an evolution from his last NY show where they all had a black striped down their lips). And it all looked amazing!

Really liked the variation on the jacket and shorts -- a lot of stripes, use of Thom's core palette (white, blue, red, gray) and a very playful streak.

I've included photos from two of my favorite looks... sharks and some fun yellow madras. And while I want both, I know Thom's price points and firmly believe these will remain in my dream closet, and not my real one.

You can check out all of the looks at Style.com: http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011MEN-TBROWNE. You can also see a video of the show from the T Magazine blog: http://tmagazine.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/06/28/now-screening-thom-browne-2/.

Enjoy!

Porter x Adidas Sneakers: Things I Want

As you know from past posts, I am addicted to Porter. I don't know what it is... oh wait, I do know. It is the bright colors, the use of plastic and vinyl, and the great designs. The Porter wallet in my back pocket attests to that!

And I've been obsessed with high tops the past year... so this collab between Porter and Adidas is calling my name.

Love the back zipper, love the quilted sides, love the color (perfect for Fall). Gimme these shoes!

Porter is still not easy to find Stateside, so I may have to order these from Japan. Hai!

Check 'em out at Hypebeast: http://hypebeast.com/2010/06/porter-adidas-originals-nizza-high-green-tanker/

Theory Sportscoat: Things I Have

On last weekend's shopping excursion I tried on a great sportscoat from Theory. I've been addicted to sportscoats the past couple of years and now have a nice array in my closet.

This one from Theory was nice and light (for Spring), blue and white stripes, and fit me so well. Actually everything from Theory fits me well... often when I wear their dress shirts I am asked if they were custom tailored for me.

So how could I pass this up, especially given it was on sale. Well... I didn't.

I got mine at Barney's (aka Mecca), but you can look at it on the Theory website: http://www.theory.com/mens-sportcoats-royden-emanate/A0184125,default,pd.html?dwvar_A0184125_color=BW3&start=3&cgid=sale-mens-sportcoats

Check it out!

Armani S/S 2011: Things I Love

Fine... when you start a show with Evandro Soldati on the runway, you have my attention. Although lately the Brazilian is everywhere!

But I was actually really intrigued with Armani's showing for S/S 2011 -- the leather, the military influence, and even the unitards.

In the look below (avec monsieur Soldati), I love the rolled leather pants (that do look like leggings), the buttoned up shirt, and light jacket. In fact going through images from the show, I was mesmerized by the number of looks that were completely black. Part of me wanted to say -- Giorgio, this is for S/S! But I still love it.

You must must must check out the rest of this collection... the Armani team pulled it out!

http://www.style.com/fashionshows/complete/slideshow/S2011MEN-EARMANI?loop=0&iphoto=0&play=false&cnt=103

Brown Wingtips: Things I Have

So I did a little shopping this weekend. What can I say... it's been a while, and Barney's was having a fab sale. I stocked up on some great deals -- functional pieces that I know I'll use!

One of the first purchases I made yesterday was a new pair of leather lace-ups. I've been looking at wingtips for a while now, and these (made in Italy) fit so well and I loved the rich brown color.

Since I feel like I'm always obsessed with casual shoes (especially high tops as of late), this dressy pair will be a welcome addition to my closet. Check 'em out on Barney's website: http://www.barneys.com/Wingtip%20Blucher/500455173,default,pd.html.

Shorts from Bonobos: Things I Have

I have been looking for a new pair of shorts for a while now. Everything I've seen has either been too long, too tight, too expensive.

Then I took a look at the Bonobos website and found they had a small but colorful selection of shorts. Since I l-o-v-e my two pairs of Bonobos cords, I figured I'd give their shorts a try.

I settled on the Crabby Shacks, a washed red color. Except when I was ready to buy, they were out of stock. So I submitted my e-mail address and was notified when they had more available. Then, the first size I ordered was a bit too small. Urgh. So I exchanged them (with free shipping!) for the next size up, which fit perfectly.

This weekend I wore the shorts for the first time and LOVE them! They are the most comfortable things... and I adore the Hawaiian print on the pocket linings, always a nice detail from Bonobos.

You can go here to pick up a pair of Crabby Shacks for yourself: http://www.bonobos.com/store/item/crabby_shacks, or go to the general Shorts page to see the other colors and styles: http://www.bonobos.com/store/cat/shorts.

Enjoy!

Jil Sander S/S 2011 at Pitti: Things I Want

This year at Pitti Uomo, Jil Sander was invited to do the special presentation (an honor Thom Browne had last year... I'm still salivating over it!).

And after seeing photos and video today of the show, let me just say that Raf Simons turned it out! What an amazing collection for Spring 2011! While the label's namesake has been rockin' and rollin' over at Uniqlo (with her J+ collab), I think Raf has been doing a great job at invigorating both the men's and women's lines (plus the new Navy line).

I love the solid bright colors, the layering of colors, the striped knits, and the floral motif. I am seriously pining for purple shirt and green pants below. And the light pink jacket. And the purple shorts. And...

I shared a few of my favs here, but please do check out the rest of the show: http://blog.wearethemarketblog.com/?p=6647. And a great review from Esquire: http://www.esquire.com/blogs/mens-fashion/jil-sander-pitti-061710.

Anna Dello Russo T-Shirt: Things I Love (and Want)

Ack! I am dying right now at how badly I love these Anna Dello Russo t-shirts! They are amazing!

I came across them this morning on Fashion Week Daily, which linked me to Yoox, who told me they are sold out. So sad.

I love seeing the street photos of Anna at all of the shows, seeing the inside of her closet, and more recently reading her blog: www.annadellorusso.com.

Let me know when the shirts are available again and I will be first in line! Trust!

Sandals from South Willard: Things I Want

Just the other day I was walking past South Willard (yes, it's in my neighborhood) and made a mental note that I needed to pop in. I think it's a great store, small but carrying a well edited selection of labels.

Today I was perusing their website (after seeing a link to it from Valet Mag), and came across their selection of summer sandals. Leather sandals made just for South Willard. And I think they are awesome!

It was tough to select my favs, but I think these brown ones win. While I like simplicity in sandals, the additional straps really make the design. And at just over $100 they are a great deal for handmade, leather sandals.

But they do have other styles and colors, so go to their website and check them out: http://www.southwillard.com/collections/accessories/hand-made-sandals/. Now!

Things I Love: My Wallpaper* Cover

My good friend John turned me onto Wallpaper* magazine many years ago... but I've only been a subscriber for 2.

I really enjoy the breadth of design, fashion, travel, and lifestyle topics they cover and especially the in-depth looks at various countries and markets.

For the August issue, Wallpaper* gave subscribers the opportunity to design their own cover. Using pre-selected patterns, copy, images, and colors you could put together your own creation.

And... here is mine!

It won't arrive until end of July, but I love it already... and what a brilliant idea (I am still trying to figure out how they'll print and bind unique designs for each person).

Duffel from Herschel: Things I Want

Always on the lookout for new luggage, but especially for a nice weekend bag. I mean, I think I only have four or five already, so an addition to the collection is most welcome.

Yesterday I came across this great duffel from Herschel and have to admit I was sold on the shoe compartment. Great way to keep your (often dirty) shoes away from the rest of your items, and keeps them accessible as well.

I also really liked the leather handles and the contrasting navy blue color of the bag.

Now unfortunately the bag is not available until July 1! But for now read more about it at Hypebeast: http://hypebeast.com/2010/06/herschel-2010-springsummer-collection-duffle/.

Ombre Denim Shirt: Things I Want

I guess this is me jumping on the color-dipped bandwagon that seems to be everywhere right now. But I really liked this denim shirt from Opening Ceremony -- it's a classic shirt with a fun (but still subtle) twist.

Of course given my penchant for color, I wouldn't mind if the bottom was a bright yellow fade... but that's me.

As is this shirt is great to pair with some shorts, roll up the sleeves, and head to the beach. Or I'd wear it to work with my APC khakis.

Here's the link to Opening Ceremony, where all of your ombre desires can be met: http://www.openingceremony.us/products.asp?menuid=1&designerid=362&productid=19047

Pray for Fashion: Things I Love

I think this sketch speaks for itself!

Another brilliant creation from What I Saw Today: http://designerman-whatisawtoday.blogspot.com/2010/05/pray-for-fashion.html

Rich Magazine's First Issue: Things I Love

One of the blogs I read, Coute Que Coute, always finds amazing fashion spreads from magazines around the world. This one, from the first issue of Rich Magazine in Japan, I thought was so compelling and touched on such a variety of themes.

From the life sized pearls, to the glittery Balmain-esque jacket, the shots were so well styled and really intriguing.

Below I've included a couple of my favorites. The whole hat series was awesome but I particularly liked the mask (is that Lucille Ball?) with the bowler hat (and one mouse ear), and the glossy red lips of the model.

And here I loved the color, the fabric, the draping...

Check out the rest of the shots here: http://coutequecoute.blogspot.com/2010/05/introducing-japanese-rich-magazine.html.

Enjoy!