coolness

Florence Broadhurst / Kate Spade Spring 2012 Campaign

2012-02-01T14:51:00.002-05:00

Images via Kate Spade and Architectural Digest.

I'm dying over here; the new Kate Spade campaign is sick! Loving that they've paid homage to Florence Broadhurst--designer of extraordinary hand-printed wallpaper in the 60s! Florence's flamboyant style had a variety of influences: her native Australia, Moroccan textiles, Renaissance motif. You know how I feel about a strong graphic statement--the black and cream floral--creamsicle and hot pink? Striking! The last photo is Ms. Broadhurts's Cockatoos, one of her more artistically successful wallpapers.

Susie Bubble

2012-01-27T15:34:00.002-05:00

Susie Bubble & Saga Sig - Mystical Playground from The Avant/Garde Diaries on Vimeo.

Video via Vimeo.

Susie Bubble aka Susannah Lau @ Style Bubble is so thoughtful--I like her vintage Polaroid and she’s a bit of a hoarder—buys items for their sentimental value; I suffer from the same affliction. I agree with her sentiment that it’s becoming increasingly difficult to achieve the avant-garde in fashion.

Purity of Line

2012-01-26T16:30:00.000-05:00

Image via notcot.org.

So clean.

Style Nanda

2012-01-26T14:57:00.002-05:00

Image via Style Nanda.

Loving Style Nanda--chic, chic, chic!

Blood, Bones & Butter

2012-01-22T17:34:00.001-05:00

I devoured Hamilton's page turner on our holiday vacation; food nerds and Prune groupies will love it.

Resolutions

2012-01-21T21:09:00.000-05:00

Image via All The Pretty Birds.

My resolution is to be more glamorous. This stunning shot of Julia Sarr-Jamois is inspiration enough. LOVE her hair.

New Year, new musings!

2012-01-21T20:55:00.002-05:00

Dear ones-

Happy 2012! I pledge to post more often. Last year was all about balancing work, hubby, and a toddler-I've attached our holiday portrait-I adore them so! I feel a renewed since of creative energy and look forward to sharing my thoughts with you.

How cool is this clutch?

2011-10-26T10:28:00.001-04:00

Image via Refinery29.

The clutch won't stop--I also like the t-shirt paired with the midi skirt and pumps--urban prim.

Special Occasion

2011-09-28T12:00:00.001-04:00

Video via BHLDN.

Adore getting dressed up and love to entertain? For all of these interests, visit this quirky and whimsical destination.

Super Talented

2011-09-08T16:40:00.003-04:00

Video via Supima Cotton.

At school, we work with a lot of talented students and one of them, Jusil Carroll, was not only the recipient of the CFDA Liz Claiborne Design Scholarship, but today she just won the Supima Design Competition at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. We'll be able to say we knew her when!

CFDA Design Manifesto

2011-09-01T16:01:00.001-04:00

Image via Council of Fashion Designers of America.

Diane sent this Design Manifesto to the office today. What is the future for art, design, and ideas in an age when practically anything can be copied, pasted, downloaded, sampled, remixed, and re-imagined?

A Day In My Life

2011-08-02T13:49:00.005-04:00

Sketch by Jane Genarro.

A day in my life as depicted by my friend Jane Gennaro. I love that it features my baby, Luba, the comedy/tragedy masks that reference my background in the theater, and my ever present iPhone. So cool!

Japanese Contemporary Art

2011-03-21T16:35:00.003-04:00

Image via Japan Society.

My husband and I traveled to Japan (our first big trip together before we were married!) a few years ago. It was a truly immersive experience and I adored everything about the food, art, and culture so I will most definitely check out Bye Bye Kitty: Between Heaven and Hell in Contemporary Art because I'm super excited about the cut-and-mix proclivities of enfant terrible Makoto Aida.

Paris!

2011-03-04T15:32:00.000-05:00

Image via Fashion Squad.

Delicious!

Iconic Modernism

2011-03-03T17:39:00.000-05:00

Image via T Magazine Blog.

I am a city dweller and, for the majority of my life, have lived in walk-ups or high-rises. If I had to live in a house, my choice of abode would most certainly be a midcentury modern like this steel beauty by Donald Wexler. I'm crazy about the pool too!

Knotted Brilliance

2011-03-02T15:09:00.001-05:00

Image via New York.

Experimental design in my favorite color by Jaclyn Mayer for Orly Genger.

Do It Yourself

2011-03-02T10:31:00.001-05:00

Image via Kate Spade NY Twitter Feed.

I am so into this--they scanned a stiletto and then framed it for their Japan store. I love art that you can do yourself--framing vintage scarves or book covers or blowing up a photo you snapped on your iPhone into a digital print--simple and wonderful.

Icing on your heels

2011-03-02T09:29:00.003-05:00

Image via the COVETEUR.

How yummy; they're Miu Miu.

Paint by Numbers

2011-03-01T16:20:00.001-05:00

Image by Trey Speegle via 20x200.

A popular painting technique of the 1950s, we like the paint-by-numbers genre. This image is based on a backdrop the artist created for Stella McCartney's 2009 runway show.

Cosmopolite

2011-03-01T16:05:00.002-05:00

Image via tibi.

Look at that pretty accordion collar; what a sweet take on the trench.

Peachy Keen

2011-02-24T12:27:00.003-05:00

I'm hungry for spring and lazy days at the cinema.

Picture Taking on the Street

2011-02-23T17:02:00.001-05:00

Image via The Sartorialist.

A stylish shutterbug at London Fashion Week!

Vintage Marimekko Fabric

2011-02-22T14:26:00.002-05:00

Image via Retro Age Vintage Fabrics.

Mod Marimekko from 1973!

Statement Jewelry

2011-02-01T14:14:00.000-05:00

Image via London Fashion Week.

Another testimony as to why bangles always work. Crystals and vintage ivory bakelite-inspired bracelets are in trend. In this instance, more is more.

Mobile Chaplet by Moorhead & Moorhead

2011-01-28T16:01:00.003-05:00

Image via Moorhead & Moorhead.

This image struck me today--what a wonderful place to pause. Designed as a portable space for reflection, conceptually the structure is based on covered wagons that transported settlers to the Midwest--genius, right? The woven canopy is made of thermoplastic composite rods.

Alexander McQueen

2011-01-21T14:43:00.000-05:00

Image via The Museum at FIT.

This Alexander McQueen evening dress is featured in The Fashion & Textile History Gallery's current show at The Museum at FIT. Titled His and Hers, the show explores changing perceptions of "masculine" and "feminine" dress from the mid-18th century to the present. McQueen, of course, subverted gender codes in various ways. From his Fall 2008 collection, this dress consists of black leather, white silk and black tulle.

Yummy Jumpsuit-3.1 Phillip Lim

2010-11-02T09:51:00.001-04:00

Image via style.com.

Phillip Lim's easy elegance always wins. LOVE the bangle.

Simon Doonan for Dempsey & Carroll

2010-09-10T07:56:00.002-04:00

Image via Dempsey & Carroll.

Love Simon Doonan's moxie--so smart of Dempsey & Carroll to collaborate with him--the taglines speak to me personally--particularly "Pickles are the new Macaroons" since I'm preggers! Yes, readers, my husband and I are expecting out first child this fall--which is why I've been pretty silent all summer; I've been busy nesting! Am soooooo looking forward to the vocation of motherhood.

Chanel Ming Le Vernis Nail Colour

2010-09-09T19:50:00.000-04:00

Image via Chanel.

I love September! Fashion week, back to school, and fall is right around the corner! We're loving Chanel's Ming--pearlized, natural, and chic--we're so committing to "pretty" this season.

Benjamin Moore Black Paint

2010-07-25T17:50:00.000-04:00

Image via Loony Magazine.

This bathroom is oh so very chic. I adore black paint and it works so well in tiny spaces. I must find a way to use it one day.

Lisa Congdon: A Collection A Day

2010-06-20T10:29:00.003-04:00

Image via Flavorpill.

Curating is one of my favorite things to do; not really a hobby, but a way of life; a way of keeping track of my interests--a desire to live beautifully and fully. The process of selection and deselection--to scour, scour, scour and edit, edit, edit. What can I say, I love it. Artist and illustrator Lisa Congdon is photographing, drawing, or painting an online exhibition/blog, A Collection of Day, that acquaint you with her current interests. What a great way to affirm your creativity on the daily. The photo above features her collection of mid century paperbacks with super cool design and typography.

Burt Bacharach

2010-04-27T22:11:00.001-04:00

Loving that Glee played tribute to Burt Bacharach tonight. Loved Kristin Chenoweth's faithful rendition of "One Less Bell To Answer/A House Is Not A Home". Next week I'm going to see her sing it live in Promises, Promises (the musical for which Bacharach created the score). I have (nearly) Bacharach's complete library in my iTunes--I think I own everything he recorded with his muse Dionne Warwick. I adore the drama of his music and the way it captures distinct moods and atmospheres.

Billy's Bakery

2010-04-20T23:49:00.001-04:00

Image via Billy's Bakery.

Last week I stood in the rain to buy this cake for my husband's birthday. There's always a line at Billy's--even in the rain. Its Chocolate Cake with Mocha Buttercream. Its the best thing ever--we've been eating it for days--for breakfast and dessert! It feels so decadent. I'm big on birthdays; I feel everyone should have a cake with candles to blow out and ice cream. My husband was like, "But it's just us two," and I was like, "Precisely!"

Heathers (1989)

2010-04-19T22:24:00.001-04:00

This movie never ceases to tickle me--its one of my favorite dark comedies of the 80s. Its commentary on high school social politics and the desperate pursuit of approval (aka popularity) is still acute and the fashion was, like, totally rad.

FENTON/FALLON

2010-04-09T22:40:00.002-04:00

Image via Glamour.com.

Designer of NYC-based FENTON and FALLON, Dana Lorenz, has created an edgy capsule collection for J.Crew that is particularly stellar.

Roger Vivier

2010-04-08T21:50:00.001-04:00

Image via The Paris Traveler.

I've got the yummiest post for you today! Right now (well, after you read this post!) you have got to run over to the Roger Vivier site and see the most amazing video about their new collection--its magnificent! It encapsulates a day in the life and the joie de vivre of a stylish woman who adores Vivier! Its New York, Paris, macaroons, fresh orange juice, croissants, lattes, motherhood, premieres, gallery and museum hopping, dancing, prancing--and the soundtrack is so mod--it makes me want to live, live, live!

Such Great Style! Wedding dress with Oxfords

2010-04-06T15:59:00.001-04:00

This is beyond cool--a breezy wedding dress with Oxfords that appears in this month's Vogue. I love when something like the preciousness of a wedding dress is tempered by something not "sweet"; the shoes are perfect and her hair is a fabulous new take on mod.

Angélique Kidjo

2010-04-05T13:36:00.001-04:00

Image via The New York Times.

This amazing image is from Kidjo's performance at New York City's Town Hall last week--my husband and I were present and it was fantastic. She's such a marvelous, vibrant, energetic performer--born for the stage. Although known for her African and deep global grooves, she sang new songs from her upcoming album OYO that is a tribute to her musical influences. Her take on Santana, James Brown, Aretha Franklin, and Otis Redding tunes were phenomenal--she even sang a cut from a Bollywood soundtrack--talk about fusion--we love Angélique!

Blog Break

2010-03-29T17:32:00.000-04:00

Image via Room Envy.

Hello all--

Sorry I've been remiss in my daily posts; the projects have been piling up on this end--hence, I am taking a blog break to catch up on reading, writing, and homemaking. I'll be back on Monday, April 5th, with great new posts. Enjoy the long holiday weekend!

Milly Paisley-Embroidered Silk Blouse

2010-03-23T23:35:00.001-04:00

Image via Net-a-Porter.

I live in white jeans in the summer; this blouse would be a breezy accompaniment.

Cake Couture

2010-03-22T23:27:00.001-04:00

Image via Style Me Pretty.

The great things about wedding style is that, creatively, the sky can be the limit. I love a strong graphic statement--particularly when its executed in black and white. The cut-outs on this cake are whimsical, add texture, and create a cool 3D effect.

Shirin Neshat's Women Without Men

2010-03-19T10:46:00.000-04:00

Image via Gladstone Gallery.

Shirin Neshat's feature-film debut, Women Without Men (2009), is a must see. The narrative reveals the story of four women in early 1950's Iran and explores the limitations of lives lived under oppressive conditions. Years ago I wrote an article for Ms. Magazine, "Shirin Neshat Sees Beyond The Veil,"and had an opportunity to meet the artist and discuss her process and personal history. Her work is exquisite--graceful and political.

Chanel Cuir De Russie

2010-03-18T20:13:00.000-04:00

Image via Chanel.

Years ago, a stylish friend of mine who had the most amazing nose gifted me with this scent and now I always keep a bottle. I guess you could call it my signature scent, although I don't wear it everyday. Its earthy and visceral and sometimes it smells like leather--the mix of bergamont and birchwood also give it an edge. It was created in 1925 and its an intellectual and conceptual masterpiece. My husband prefers me in spicy florals, but at heart I'm a woody Oriental.

Celine Spring 2010 Ad Campaign

2010-03-17T10:53:00.003-04:00

Clearly, I'm crushing on Phoebe Philo--what she has done with Celine is spot on. I keep going back to this ad from the Spring 2010 ad campaign. Everything is right about this look--its perfectly balanced. And you know I love the wedges!

TIBI Silk print playsuit

2010-03-16T23:40:00.000-04:00

Image via NET-A-PORTER.

I'm dying for a beach vacay and this playsuit is perfect for a sunny destination. I purchased a TIBI linen playsuit last year that I wore on my honeymoon. Its so comfy--like a grown-up onesie--you can throw it over a bikini or dress it up with fancy sandals for evening.

Floria Sigismondi

2010-03-15T14:46:00.002-04:00

Image via The New York Times.

I've admired the work of director/photographer Floria Sigismondi for over a decade and can't wait to see her latest directorial effort, The Runaways. Check out the film's winning review in the Times.

J.Crew Matte jersey curator pant

2010-03-11T22:50:00.000-05:00

Image via J.Crew.

Hands down, this is the perfect, perfect work pant.

Girl Scout Cookies

2010-03-10T21:11:00.002-05:00

Image via Luxirare.

Its Girl Scout cookie time--yay! My feeling is that Samoas are THE BEST cookies on earth. That yummy gooey caramel, the coconut, the chocolate--I could eat a box by myself. I was a Girl Scout when I was young--if I have a daughter, I am totally going to be a Girl Scout leader--my mom was and we had the best time ever.

Phoebe Philo for Celine

2010-03-09T23:08:00.001-05:00

Image via style.com.

I adore the way the shirt peeks from under the khaki skirt--simply adore it--how cheeky. This is the perfect uniform for spring/summer--crisp white blouse, mini A-line skirt, and platforms.

Such Great Style! Costume Designer Sandy Powell

2010-03-08T15:31:00.001-05:00

Images via Getty Images.

I think Sandy Powell had the best style at the Oscars--the majority of attendees were dressed by stylists, but its clear that Sandy Powell, the consummate costume designer, dressed herself--and she was perfect. The details were impeccable--the two arms of bangles, the sequined tam, the deco print on the dress, the fingernails, Tom Ford on your arm--flawless.

Theory Shirtdress

2010-03-05T00:09:00.001-05:00

Image via style.com.

I've been on a dress binge lately. What's more, I had an outfit like this that I would insist on wearing at least twice a week when I was in the fifth grade--I would have so much fun in this shirtdress--it would tickle my fancy.

Such Great Style! An All Black Uniform

2010-03-03T22:00:00.000-05:00

Image via Garance Doré.

Doesn't model Jeneil look divine dripping in all black? I love an all black uniform--its not monotonous if done with elegance, texture, and distinction.

Fashion, Africa, and Animism

2010-03-02T16:05:00.002-05:00

Image by Viviane Sassen via Nowness.

The title of today's blog reflects the content of this interview with photographer Vivianne Sassen. The image above is from her Light Trip In Tanzania series. I stumbled across all of this on the new LVMH sponsored site "Nowness"--which I think is ultra cool. In the New York Times, Nowness is described by the site's digital vice president, Kamel Ouadi, as "a subtle, discreet and elegant way to offer original, interesting and ever-changing content to intelligent and aspirational people — and those who are already embedded in the digital culture." This is a concept that stays in trend--being embedded in digital culture. As an educator, I feel its imperative to be in trend and conversant with the emergent media(s) of our times--its important for me to speak the language of myriad generations. How else can you expect to engage in any meaningful way if you don't speak the language(s) of those you intend to educate and collaborate with? Its important to stay in the flow--for me its a principle of practice/theory.

Eugenia Kim Holly printed linen sunhat

2010-03-01T20:48:00.001-05:00

Image via NET-A-PORTER.

This is darling--its like a modified cloche and I love the way the bow sweeps under the brim ever so slightly.

Wangechi Mutu Wins Deutsche Bank “Artist of the Year” Award

2010-02-26T14:55:00.001-05:00

Image via ARTINFO.

Yay! I love Wangechi's work--she is one of my favorite artists on earth and I've written about her process a lot in my career. Wangechi's work is ingenious, complex, and beautiful. Independent curator Okwui Enwezo, who was on the Deutsche Bank selection committee stated, "Her body of work is one that is very much engaged with the global image ecology, and her engagement with the archeology of that ecology is what makes it interesting." Read more about Wangechi here.

Leah C. Couture Millinery

2010-02-26T08:54:00.001-05:00

Images via Leah C. Couture Millinery.

I just learned that designer Leah Chalfen will create unique wedding headpieces for J. Crew. This is so great. I seriously considered wearing one of Leah's headpieces (aka fascinators) to my wedding and then decided upon a more traditional veil as I was getting married in a Cathedral. I remember visiting Leah's atelier during one of my lunch breaks last Spring and trying on one great whimsical piece after another. They were so dramatic and chic--I still want one! I think I might treat myself to one and maybe pair it with the black jumpsuit I'm pining for. Wouldn't that stop traffic?

Blue Hill

2010-02-25T11:45:00.003-05:00

Images via New York Magazine and Blue Hill.

We recently dined at Blue Hill here in the City and had most satisfying dining experience. We decided upon the chef's tasting menu and were served: mini beet burgers with fresh goat cheese on tiny, fresh baked, whole wheat buns; Maine sea scallops with Meyer lemon and citrus; two butters: one with whipped lardo and maple syrup dusted with paprika, and the house's fresh whipped butter served with arugula salt (for sprinkling). My husband had the Stone Farms (non-stressed) Berkshire pig with sweet potato cake. I'm not a huge pork fan, so I asked the waiter if I could substitute. "Sure," he said, "let me talk to the chef and see what he's feeling." The service was first-rate. The chef whipped up pan-seared sea bass with pressed carrots--just for me! The main entrées were followed by a Meyer lemon sorbet with citrus and pomegranate and, for dessert, ginger cake with pineapple, tarragon sorbet, and a cookie crisp. Located in the basement of a town house, the decor is unfussy and the low ceilings are cozy--its like having a really special meal in your own dining room.

Love Shacks

2010-02-24T08:26:00.000-05:00

Image via handmade Handmade Charlotte.

There's a small house movement emerging and I want in. When my husband and I take drives upstate I get crazily excited and blurt out at every tiny home I see "Babe, we should get a love shack!" I'm enthralled with the idea of fixing up a tiny cabin to cuddle in--a place to get away from it all--lakes, creeks, mountains, a fire place, and internet access. Wouldn't that be awesome?

Elva Fields "Against A Sky of Blue" Necklace

2010-02-23T09:53:00.001-05:00

Image via Elva Fields.

Wow wee.

This cobalt necklace belongs on a chic woman on a long hot summer night with an Elderflower Cordial in her hand. This is just the most. Wouldn't this be a great "something blue" for a bride?

Gryphon Trench Coats

2010-02-22T11:57:00.002-05:00

Images via Gryphon, New York.

Aren't these trench coats fantastic? We're planning a trip to Paris this spring and either of these (or perhaps both!) work be perfect for strolling the boulevards. I particularly adore the bell sleeves and coin purse on the second one. Don't you?

First Foodie Memory

2010-02-20T13:33:00.002-05:00

I'm a sentimental foodie and I enjoy riffing on traditional family meals, particularly ones that require the use of vintage cookery like the crock pot above. My mother was a creative cook however she never, to my knowledge, used a recipe--it was all from memory. For me, keeping recipes is a hobby and I have this thing about formally recording family history. I think my mother nurtured my foodie sensibility when I was young. The first meal I remember was for my second birthday and my mom decided to throw a party. However, I don't remember any other kids--it was more of a cocktail party for her friends and it just happened to be my birthday! She made gourmet style hot dogs in her avocado green Rival crock pot and they were a big hit--its was haute cuisine to her guests as she choose to simmer the dogs in a fancy sauce as opposed to cooking them on the grill. What's your first foodie memory?

Crock Pot Tiny Hot Dogs

-1/2 cup ketchup

-3 tbsp brown sugar

-1 tbsp vinegar

-1 tsp dry mustard

-1 medium chopped onion

Mix ingredients in crock pot, add mini hot dogs and serve from pot on toothpicks.

Momofuku Bakery & Milk Bar Crack Pie

2010-02-19T10:49:00.001-05:00

Image via the Los Angeles Times.

We raved about Momofuku on the blog a few weeks ago--see the review here. The confection above from the restaurant's Bakery & Milk Bar is toasted oat crust, butter, heavy cream, brown sugar, and more sugar--heavenly! Plus, they'll ship it to you. The recipe is below for those of you who want to whip it up at home.

Momofuku's Crack Pie Recipe

Total time: 1 1/2 hours, plus cooling and chilling times (but its better warm!)

Servings: Makes 2 pies (6 to 8 servings each)

Note: Adapted from Momofuku. This pie calls for 2 (10-inch) pie tins. You can substitute 9-inch pie tins, but note that the pies will require additional baking time, about 5 minutes, due to the increased thickness of the filling.

Cookie for crust

2/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon (3 ounces) flour

Scant 1/8 teaspoon baking powder

Scant 1/8 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup (1 stick) softened butter

1/3 cup (2 1/2 ounces) light brown sugar

3 tablespoons (1 1/4 ounces) sugar

1 egg

Scant 1 cup (3 1/2 ounces) rolled oats

1. Heat the oven to 375 degrees.

2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt.

3. In the bowl of a stand mixer using the paddle attachment, or in a large bowl using an electric mixer, beat the butter, brown sugar and sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Whisk the egg into the butter mixture until fully incorporated.

5. With the mixer running, beat in the flour mixture, a little at a time, until fully combined. Stir in the oats until incorporated.

6. Spread the mixture onto a 9-inch-by-13-inch baking sheet and bake until golden brown and set, about 20 minutes. Remove from heat and cool to the touch on a rack. Crumble the cooled cookie to use in the crust.

Chloé Jumpsuit

2010-02-18T07:10:00.001-05:00

Image via style.com.

This Chloé jumpsuit from the Spring 2009 Ready-to-Wear collection is so chic and perfect for the spring and early summer black tie events that are on my calendar. I love the deep pockets and it just looks so comfortable and sensible.

Chloé Woven Leather Sandals

2010-02-17T07:06:00.001-05:00

Image via net-a-porter.

These t-bar sandals are super hot and perfect for the warm weather that I'm pining for.

Trapper Hats

2010-02-16T14:00:00.000-05:00

Image via W Magazine.

I woke up to wet, sticky snow this morning and am seriously lamenting the fact that I have yet to pick up one of these must need winter toppers which serve as hat, ear muffs, and style accessory all in one.

Green Apple Cotton Candy

2010-02-15T16:42:00.000-05:00

When you go to BLT FISH, they serve you cotton candy in a pyrex jar after the meal--I never tire of this fun treat!

Prova L'Afrique Printed Silk-Satin Scarf

2010-02-12T10:18:00.001-05:00

Image via NET-A-PORTER.

This is fantastic and in my favorite color scheme of the moment: yellow, black, and white.

To Haiti With Love

2010-02-11T11:37:00.000-05:00

Image via style.com.

The CFDA's "FASHION FOR HAITI" T-shirt goes on sale February 16th at retailers across the country. Proceeds will go to the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund.

The Smell of New Book

2010-02-10T12:11:00.001-05:00

Yesterday my husband gifted me with a hard to find fashion design coffee table book that I've been longing for since forever. It weighed A TON, but my favorite part was the smell of the pages! My husband chimed in that it smelled like a library and I was like, "Precisely." I'm not sure where I sourced the photo above, its been on my desktop for awhile, but I am so that girl sitting down in the aisles of Strand Bookstore reading.

Balmain Flat Leather Sandal with Multicolor Tribal Beading

2010-02-09T07:34:00.000-05:00

Image via style.com.

Tribal beading is so chic when executed with restraint--the end result here is cool and dramatic.

Alejandro Ingelmo Thriller Crisscross Flat

2010-02-08T06:00:00.002-05:00

Image via style.com.

This shoe is spherical and clean--I'd wear it with all black.

Super Bowl Style! Alexander Wang "Brady Football Clutch" & Seven-Layer Dip

2010-02-05T00:54:00.002-05:00

Image via style.com.

In anticipation of Super Bowl Sunday I thought, "Why not?" Isn't this clutch great? I bet it feels like butter. I may even make a seven-layer dip on Sunday--I found a recipe for a genius Tex Mex version in New York Magazine in which you prepare the dip from scratch. It was created by Chef Joaquin (former partner in Momofuku) Baca and its served in my neck of the woods at Brooklyn Star.

Seven-Layer Dip

Refried Black Beans:
1/4 cup olive oil or lard
1/2 yellow onion, chopped
3 1/2 cups cooked black beans, liquid reserved

Rice:
1/4 cup canola oil
1 cup long grain rice
1/2 yellow onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, diced
1 1/2 cups chicken stock
1/4 cup tomato sauce
1/2 tsp. cumin
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. black pepper

Ground Beef:
2 tbs. olive oil
1/2 onion, chopped
1 lb. ground beef
1 clove garlic, diced
1/2 tbs. chili powder
1/2 tsp. oregano
1/2 tsp. cumin seed
1/2 tsp. salt

Cheese:
3/4 pounds grated cheddar

Guacamole:
2 ripe avocados, halved and peeled
1/2 red onion, diced
1 1/2 tbs. cilantro, chopped
juice of 1 lime
1/2 tsp. salt

Sour Cream:
1 1/2 cups

Salsa:
3 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
3 serrano chiles, finely chopped
2 tbs. cilantro, chopped
1/4 tsp. salt
juice of 1 lime

Instructions

To Refry the Beans: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the oil or lard. Add onion and cook until translucent. Add beans, gradually, mashing until smooth; add reserved liquid as needed.

For the Rice: In a large saucepot over medium heat, warm the oil. Add rice and onion, and stir constantly until rice is toasted. Add garlic and cook for a minute, then add chicken stock and remaining ingredients. Bring to boil, then cover pot and simmer for 20 minutes.

For the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the oil. Add onion and cook until translucent. Add the beef and seasonings and cook, crumbling beef until the liquid is absorbed.

For the Guacamole: Mash avocados and combine with the remaining ingredients.

For the Salsa: Combine all the ingredients.

To Make the Dip: In a large glass dish or bowl, (1) spread the refried beans into the bottom. Layer with rice, and (2) ground beef, cheese, guacamole, and sour cream. (3) Spoon and spread on salsa, and serve with tortilla chips.

Fox Head Valentine

2010-02-04T08:55:00.000-05:00

Image via Dempsey and Carroll.

The spirited word play on these engraved cards is super sweet!

Personalized Recipe Card Box & Embosser Set

2010-02-03T08:34:00.006-05:00

Image via Williams-Sonoma.

I received this as a gift and am simply besotted with it! I just inherited my Aunt Edna's recipe collection and can't wait to share the vintage foodie narratives with you!

John Murphy Picture Frame

2010-02-02T10:01:00.000-05:00

Image via John Murphy.

The texture and punchy color resonate with me! A black and white photo inside would be striking!

Rebecca Minkoff Virginia laptop case

2010-02-01T09:43:00.000-05:00

Image via New York Magazine.

This is fantastic. You know how I feel about strong graphic statements and black and white stripes; plus, the gold tone hardware is sharp. My feeling is that you can use this as a briefcase for work--its the perfect size for a few files, a slim wallet, and a phone.

Design Quote

2010-01-31T01:17:00.000-05:00

Image via ffffound.com.

I've always liked Paul Rand's quote. Great inspiration for creative minds.

Timex 80 Retro Digital Plastic Watch in Green Weed

2010-01-29T23:43:00.000-05:00

Image via Steven Alan.

I haven't worn a watch in years. I just check my iPhone for the time. However, lately I've been longing for a proper timepiece. Something like this might fit the bill because it looks like something my husband would wear--and it has just a bit of edge.

Such Great Style! On the street after the YSL show in Paris

2010-01-29T11:38:00.000-05:00

Image via The Sartorialist.

I picked this up from The Sartorialist this morning. Love the details--the patent belt, the sunglasses, the cap, ipod, the bangels, and the one too many bags!

Wasabi on a Hot Dog?!

2010-01-28T11:25:00.001-05:00

Image via cinnachick.

As usual, the Japan Society is doing something totally progressive and cool. They're holding a food forum titled, Wasabi on a Hot Dog?! Rethinking Japanese Ingredients. Yuzu, wasabi, miso, nori, and tofu--ingridients usually associated with Japanese cuisine, have crossed physical and culinary boundaries, and can now be found in cuisines throughout the world. How innovative are you when you cook? Do you take chances? How do you utilize unusual ingredients to create new dishes that defy traditional definitions of national cuisines?

Bell, Book and Candle

2010-01-27T11:53:00.000-05:00

Magic and mystery. Are you interested in that sort of thing? Last night I caught Bell, Book and Candle on TCM. Kim Novak stars as a free spirited witch who casts a spell on her publisher neighbor played by Jimmy Stewart. She wants him to love her. Novak is so droll--she modulates with such nonchalance, like she could hardly care. The movie is such a ridiculous dramatic--with Kim cuddling up with her kitty like its her lover. Ditto for the spoofy jazz soundtrack. I love a cheesy movie on a sleepless night.

Vintage Vera Neumann Linen Dishcloth

2010-01-26T00:04:00.000-05:00

I'm mad about Vera! Years ago when I worked in television, I produced a segment on textile designer Vera Neumann and became an instant fan. A friend gifted me a complete set of vintage Vera cloth napkins for my wedding shower last summer that are in mint condition--I was so floored--I had to ask her if she really wanted to part with them! The dishcloth above belonged to my Great Aunt Edna. My dear Aunt recently passed away and left behind a troth of stylish items. I owe my fashion and design sensibility to my Aunt Edna--she really encouraged my creativity, even during my misguided blue eyeliner and blue mascara phase--and so, in her honor, I'll often refer to her on the blog and tag her in my labels. I believe Aunt Edna's Vera cloth was from the early 60s because the ladybug is the same size as the signature.

J.Crew Bijoux pear necklace

2010-01-25T23:21:00.001-05:00

Here I go, crushing on J.Crew again. I received this necklace as a gift--its phenomenal--like wearing a chandelier around your neck--a wonder of a jewel--delicate and exquisitely wrought.

Blog Break

2010-01-19T00:23:00.000-05:00

Image via weheartit.

Hello all--

I'm taking a trip, so I'm taking a blog break. I'll be back on Tuesday, 1/26 with new posts!

Vintage Sewing Machines

2010-01-16T22:01:00.000-05:00

Image via Julie K.

When I was young, my mother sewed my sister and I cute little jumpers and dresses. I learned how to sew when I was a Girl Scout, and its such a shame that I've long since abandoned that hobby. Maybe I'll pick it up again when I'm a mother. For the past two years sewing machine sales have been on the rise due to a greater awareness of social environmental issues, the rise of fashion design oriented competitions on television, and a desire to "customize" one's own garments. The trend has been aptly defined as a modern take on the "make do and mend" attitude of former generations.

Image via Design Is Mine.

Such Great Style! Yellow High Heels

2010-01-15T02:32:00.005-05:00

For a holiday gift I received the book I Love Your Style. In it, author Amanda Brooks shares that she checks the internet to see what Clémence Poésy is wearing because she has such great style. I found the photo of Clémence below and thought, "Ah, a kindred spirit," as I adore the yellow high heels!

Below are the yellow patent peep toe slingbacks I wore to my wedding--they were a really big hit. Brooks has been collecting books of tear sheets for years (as have I--in my office are boxes of composition books that span nearly two decades--they are filled with my art and design inspiration). I agree with Brooks sentiment that, when you collect tear sheets over time, they become a definitive dictionary of your personal style.

Interview with Rebecca Ward

2010-01-14T08:35:00.001-05:00

A few weeks ago we blogged about Rebecca's Kate Spade installations. Below is her interview with us.

rebecca ward

seventeen is sharp
electrical tape, vinyl adhesive
06.19.09
kansas city, mo
charolotte street foundation/urban culture project

rebecca ward
black mountains
electrical tape, adhesive graphic film
09.03.09
istanbul, turkey
milk gallery

Name: Rebecca Ward
Profession: artist/time traveler/secret agent/spy
City of Birth: Waco, Texas

Tell us about your current project: Right now my biggest projects are my grad school applications!

What is your current obsession? Molecular Biology.

Can you recall a particular event that inspired your artistic practice? In 5th grade I was coloring this cat with some crayola markers. I remember very specifically that I wanted the cat to be bright orange and pink. My friend Alyson exclaimed at me from across the table, “Didn’t your mother ever tell you that pink and orange clash?!” I didn’t care, I knew my pink and orange cat was going to be awesome and that pink and orange secretly belonged together, somehow, somewhere, in a perfect harmony. I think that was an important moment in my artistic development.

Where do you find your inspiration? Mostly from materials that are seductive or just plain irresistible.

What's the one thing that everyone must know about you? On a good night, I dream in rainbows.

What was your biggest fork in the road? Artistically speaking, seventh grade art class.

What was your biggest break? The first shows I had right out of college. They led to my involvement in a larger art scene and granted me many other opportunities to connect with people and create more installations.

What do you do everyday without fail? Drink coffee.

What are you reading right now? An article about the discovery of an ocean covered planet.

What's your favorite website? The Morning News.

Favorite museum or gallery? P.S.1

Favorite restaurant or watering hole? Trudy’s in Austin, Texas (I can't resist margaritas and queso)

What’s your biggest wish? Make a decent living doing crazy things like tape installations (and travel the globe while doing it!)

Cooking for the Circus

2010-01-13T11:56:00.001-05:00

Image via weheartit.

I was reading Grub Street yesterday and came across an announcement for the position below:

"The Big Apple Circus needs a traveling sous chef/1st cook to work in the cookhouse. Needs to be very versatile and adventurous. Salary, room and board. "

I thought, how cool!--traveling and preparing haute cuisine for the circus--what fun!

Artisanal Food Carts and Trucks

2010-01-12T11:50:00.001-05:00

Image via New York Magazine.

So long lunch truck, mobile food vending is on the rise! First it was the cupcake and gourmet coffee trucks, and I read in New York Magazine last week that the Artisanal Grilled-Cheese Truck is making its debut at the Brooklyn Flea later this year. Also in NYC, the Fojol Bros. of Merlindia serve up buttered chicken (and have coined themselves a traveling culinary carnival). In Seattle, Skillet serves up Thai cured confit of duck. In San Francisco, the food cart meetups feature gourmand delights such as crème brûlée, curries, and Amuse Bouche whose menu includes apple strudel and pear tarts alongside mini chai teas for a dollar. And, with the help of social media, many of these foodie enterprises work to transform the landscape of business interaction by tweeting customers their changing locations.

Stella McCartney brass serpent necklace with resin "pearl" details

2010-01-11T10:44:00.002-05:00

Image via style.com.

This is really great costume jewelry. Lately I’ve been into chunky necklaces, in addition to wearing pearls with irony—the contradictory impulse of gobs of “pearls” and crystals with jeans, a t-shirt, and converse—the incongruity of that look appeals to me. This necklace reminds me of 70s serpent arm cuffs—my mom had one that I would wrap around my tiny neck like a choker when I was a little girl. I’d like to wrap Stella’s confection around my neck as well.

“The only thing that separates us from the animals is our ability to accessorize”.

Clairee Belcher, Steel Magnolias, 1989.

Sugar Rush

2010-01-08T11:06:00.003-05:00

Image via Vain and Vapid.

Don't you just want to sink your teeth into this? I'm sure everyone knows I'm crazy about macaroons as I've referred to them a couple of times on the blog. They're just the best dessert--I even had a huge apothecary jar full of these sweet cookies at my wedding.

Such Great Style! The Girl From That Little Vintage Store On Baker Street

2010-01-07T14:59:00.001-05:00

Image via The Sartorialist.

I adore everything here--the red tights, the red watch, the scarf, the wallpaper, the stripes on the dress. Its just great style.

Coach Michelle Wedge

2010-01-07T10:53:00.002-05:00

Image via style.com.

Isn’t this wedge fantastic? We love a wedge—with skinny jeans, with culottes, with wide leg trousers, with shorts. We love the wedge because it occupies the entire space under the arch and heel portions of the foot. We love the wedge because it requires a more upright carriage and alters the gait in what is considered a seductive fashion. We love the wedge because it's cute.

Stumptown Mocha

2010-01-06T21:35:00.002-05:00

Reference and image via T Magazine, The New York Times.

I work near the Ace Hotel of which Stumptown Coffee Roasters is adjacent. I will head there after work one day this week to try this yummy confection that was described as: "The most carefully (and locally) sourced, intricately made drink you can have outside a cocktail bar."

Dewey's Candy

2010-01-06T08:17:00.005-05:00

Images by Steve Talkowski via dumbonyc.com.

This cute candy shop just opened up in my neighborhood. Its such a magical little spot with a modernist five-and-dime feeling and piles of old-fashioned and nostalgic candies--Sour Balls, Necco Candy Wafers, a wall of licorice and taffy, C Howard's Violet Gum, Mary Janes, Bit-O-Honey, and the list goes on! I walked out with chocolate covered almonds and Red Hots. There is something about candy stores--they ignite fond memories and yearning. Dewey's store design features white lacquered tables with bowls of sweets, a barrell of Hershey's Kisses, and ceramic lollipops hung by grosgrain from the ceiling to create a confectionery installation.

Niagara Falls

2010-01-05T08:11:00.004-05:00

Image via Le Love.

Niagara Falls was one of the stops on our winter wonderland roadtrip. Despite popular belief that it has become totally cheesy (and maybe it is, just a tiny bit), it really knocked me out. I think it was the gray winter mist that did me in--and the baby ducks bobbing on the treacherous icy waves! After living in New York City for over a decade, I can't believe I never made it up to the Falls until recently. As a budding oeneophile, the Niagara region provides numerous opportunities for cool wine tastings as it resides at a similar latitude to the Bordeaux region of France and the Napa Valley region of California.

J.Crew platinum gold Sperry Top-Sider® Authentic Original 2-Eye metallic boat shoes

2010-01-04T15:24:00.000-05:00

Image via J.Crew.

Loving these! I'm having a bit of a nostalgic moment here. I attended high school in Miami, Florida and a few of my friends wore these boats shoes--especially the boys--although they did not participate in any nautical sports. They'd wear these top-siders in brown with khakis rolled up to the ankle and Lacoste polos with the collar popped up. I thought it was such a cool look. My mother disapproved of anything faddish or designer. Plus, we couldn't afford it. Hence, my love affair with vintage coupled with the desire to participate in trends that I missed the first time around.

Momofuku Noodle Bar

2010-01-04T12:14:00.003-05:00

Image via momofuku.

My husband and I enjoyed a late night dinner here recently. We really like it. He ordered the dinner prix fixe of which I sampled his warm beet salad with shaved fennel, radish, and lardo. I've noticed that all things seem to be "piggly" at the trendy eateries in the city, with many of the menus prominently featuring roast pork, bacon, lardo (which I admit was, for me, a revelation), etc.. I chose the ginger scallion noodles for my entrée, which featured roasted cauliflower as a twist and a sheet of nori nestled in the bowl like a feather in a fedora. My husband feasted on the roast pork and grilled ridichio which we believe was braised in a balsamic reduction. I'm ususally really clumsy with chopsticks (well, in all actuality, I'm clumsy in general!), but that night I managed the sticks elegantly and swiftly--for me, a triumph! We were seated right in front of the open kitchen (BLT Fish has one that I just love!) and, as a budding gourmette, I was intrigued by the cook crew poaching eggs, stuffing pork buns, zipping by with platters of chicken wings, and preparing steaming bowls of noodles. Plus, I love that the menu features cuisine that is asian + southern + chinese + japanese + korean--a mélange of culinary texture that is wholeheartedly American.

Stylish Silver Flatware

2010-01-04T06:38:00.000-05:00

Image via Modern.

So, I've been aching for a complete set of Christofle Flatware for as long as I can remember--that is, until I came across Greg Lynn's Art Nouveau inspired Sterling Silver Flatware prototypes for Alessi. According to Joseph Rosa, Curatorial Chair of Architecture and Design at the Art Institute of Chicago, this flatware if the first example of liquid metal to be used in rapid prototyping. This computer aided designed set replicates a system of steam, leaf, and flowers that, together, form a single setting (or bouquet). Lovely! Brilliant! I believe they still may be in prototype, but as soon as they are in production, they're a snap up--and sure to become a permanent classic.

Have A Magical Holiday

2009-12-23T16:12:00.000-05:00

Image via we heart it.

We're off for a winter getaway so I'm taking a blog break. I'll be back with new posts on Monday, January 4th. Have a spectacular New Year!