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Wednesday, April 25, 2012 Time is running out, Mother’s Day is May 13, so here are thirteen presents of greatness for Mom.
1. Speaking of Presence of Greatness…
I had the good fortune to meet Mr. Jay Strongwater, above, at Neiman Marcus last week. What a genius. Spoil Mom with an elaborate Strongwater l’objet d’art, like this hydrangea flower-encrusted bowl, $3,000, pictured left, or vase, $4,800…or opt for a decadently-gilded frame instead, around $325-$2,000+, with a picture of her babies showcased within. What could be sweeter?
2. Hair Guru Philip B. To The Rescue
Creativity is a gift in itself. The resourceful Philip B. redefines hair brush cleaning for the neat nicks out there. Mom will love you for it, and it’s only 15 bucks. Seriously? Buy two. You’ll want one for yourself.
3. It’s Mere Cash, Get Cashmere
If money is of no object, spoil your grand matriarch with a pair of slippers made for her highness. I adore Loro Piana’s Odette cashmere slippers with suede sole and mink pom pons, $625, in rich burgundy. What could be more elegant for lounging? They’re almost pretty enough for a ball…
4. Moms Deserve To Smell Awesome
When was the last time she bought perfume for herself? Buy her a Jo Malone classic, like my favorites–Orange Blossom, or Red Roses, or both–and watch her bloom when she fragrance combines. It’s an art form.
5. Anything By Diptyque
Let’s face it, the Diptyque body line is lush, but you can’t go wrong with a mini candle, $28, or a full-size candle, $60. With 50 fragrances to choose from and an impressive burn time, Mom will think of you every time she lights up.
6. For the Glossy Housewife
A silk pillowcase offers real, documented beauty advantages. Softer, more manageable hair, smoother skin, less wrinkles…Can you believe it? Agent Provocateur sells the Glossy Housewife for $180. A bargain for so many beauty benefits, plus a seductive-looking bedroom to boot. Everyone must have a Glossy Housewife. You’ll feel the difference.
7. Don’t Let Her Get Caught Red-Handed
Mom deserves to have hands that won’t betray her real age. Rodan + Fields know where it’s at. This pair o’ docs will turn back the clock of time on a most-ignored area. If she’s grown accustomed to hard work, the least you can give her is soft hands.
8. The Color Purple
Anyone who’s been in my house knows I have a deep affection for deep purple…it’s the color of my velvet drapes, and my matching makeup brushes by genius makeup artist Roque Cozzette. With smartly-cut shapes all from durable Japanese Taklon, Mom will love powdering her nose with these reasonably-priced, cruelty-free makeup brushes. Animal lovers, rejoice.
9. I Love Fabulous Stationery
Penning an old-fashioned letter may seem like a dying art form, but what better way to keep in touch with Mom than a heartfelt memo? She’ll love writing to you on Fabulous Stationery. With a clear cellophane window and the return address printed on the back of the card itself…when you throw out the envelope and keep the card, the address is printed on the back so you’ll always have it handy. How genius is that? Plus there’s a gazillion options of creative designs for every possible occasion. She’ll love these notes. More on this hidden online gem, Fabulous Stationery, later. Stay tuned. It truly is fab.
10. Roses are Red, Violets are Blue…
Surprise her with a single long-stem giant rose. Have you ever seen anything so stunning? She’ll never forget it.
11. Tiffany Marks the Spot
A Tiffany bookmark designed by Elsa Peretti is the elegant way for a lady to keep her place. Mom will love starting over right where she left off with these stunning, giant sterling paperclips. Wouldn’t she just love one?
12. Sea Sponge + Shower Gel = Sublime
Sea sponges are so insanely inexpensive and such a luxury to use in the shower or bath. Sustainably-harvested conservatively from the ocean floor, natural sea sponges lack a nervous system with which to feel pain. Bundling them with a shower gel elevates an ordinary bath into a sublime experience. She’ll love you for it.
13. A Day at the Spa
It may seem cliché, but don’t underestimate the healing power of touch–a massage or facial from a local spa can help her unwind after a ragged week. Gift certificates always fit.
Luxe haircare guru Philip B. has managed to accomplish something that leaves me ecstatic in under three inches and less than 30 seconds. It’s his ingenious Hairbrush Cleaner. It only costs 15 bucks, and every girl must have one.
The tiny tool lifts and separates hair in your most clogged brushes within seconds, paving the way for your Mason Pearson to do its duty right-quick.
With an oak handle sourced from non-endangered forests and stainless steel forked prongs, it’s one accessory that’s sure to please. It just goes to show that size doesn’t always matter. Thanks Philip B. We love you too.
There’s a universal theme that runs through every civilization for Easter. The holiday is symbolic of rebirth, and the egg a symbol of life. I’m intrigued by the gorgeous Easter offerings of other cultures. Let’s take a look.
It’s hard to believe this stunning creation was hand-drawn on a chicken’s egg. A pattern is etched in hot wax before the egg is bathed in a variation of dyes–the traditional Ukrainian process, known as pysanka–which create a vivid design and a tactile texture.
Can you imagine an Alexander Lamont bowl filled with these beauties? Or perhaps a dried branch dripping with the shining varnished shells? Craft your own nest, below, for a stunning tribute to nature.
You almost need to think backwards and upside-down when creating a pysanka egg, because it’s the lightest colors that are applied first leading to the darkest before the final design emerges. Check out this tutorial on making Ukrainian Easter eggs.
You can find everything on Etsy, where eggs range in price from around 30 bucks for a ‘simple’ chicken egg, to $350 for a large rhea egg, below, that’s more than five inches long and signed and dated by its artist.
Happy Easter, everyone.
Hi guys. It’s been an exciting fall. So much has happened, I can’t begin to tell you, but with spring approaching I am already planting the seeds for summer fashion. I’m obsessed with some of the new ethnic offerings by fashion designer Rebecca Minkoff.
Rebecca’s Straw Diamond Tote, $250, makes a sophisticated statement when you’re on the move.
In woven Raffia with leather trim and a bold, exotic zebra-like pattern, the roomy bag has a playful hidden surprise: blue polka-dot lining. I can’t wait to peek inside.
Another Rebecca Minkoff Must is the Southwestern ankle-wrap Baha Sandal, $165, in camel and black. I see these sandals with an all-black ensemble and paired with the supple leather Stitched Cuff Bracelet, $95, below.
Check out the underbelly. Isn’t it gorgeous?
Rebecca’s flirtatious Leila Python Dress, $428, is a more urban approach to the outback and has been getting around in famous circles, as seen on Courtney Hansen and Lucy Hale.
With a reptile print that’s right-on, cute cut-outs, zipper detailing and a sexy racerback, Leila will look hot dressed up or down.
She would make even Eric Clapton beg for mercy. In fact, I think he wrote this song specifically for her.
And because she looks enticing both ways, I’ve included a pared-down version of her for you to hear here. I can’t decide which way I like her better.
Well that’s it for now. See you on our next expedition.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
A Quick Shout-Out To A Real OG
It’s always nice having admirers (thank you very much) and of course Oliver Goldsmith sunglasses have certainly secured a prominent fan base of which they should be proud. The clearly-coveted and totally talked-about OG has been spotted on faces, famous and fashionable, far and wide.
For A Captive, Royal Audience
Oliver Goldsmith played Prince Charming for Celebrity Royalty like Audrey Hepburn, top, The Rolling Stones, above, Michael Caine, Sophia Loren and Lady Gaga, to name a few. In addition they have catered to Fashion Royalty like the late great Mr. McQueen, not to mention Real Royalty like actress/princess Grace Kelly, a.k.a. Princess Grace of Monaco.
That’s right, OG shades are where it’s at. They are the commanding Pied Piper of Hollywood and its greater surrounding areas. When this leader in optical illusion strikes a pose, even skeptical famous faces are bound to follow.
Retro Specs
With summer upon us I’m getting totally passionate about three characters that have resurfaced from almost 50 years ago. They are Audrey, circa 1963; Uuksuu, circa 1964; and KoKo, circa 1966 and they’re all available at Barneys New York. I love each one of them so much for very different reasons.
The Icon
Audrey, $380, in beguiling black, is top on my summer shopping list. Named after the stunning yet delicate Ms. Hepburn herself, these OG’s will get you noticed. Believe me, you will definitely be identified at the scene in these striking statement-makers.
The Audrey makes flirting quite dangerous for its recipient, even if you are hiding those sexy eyes from the rest of the world behind such a supremely smooth structure.
You can pull everything together simply and effortlessly at the last minute with a pair of Audreys. All you need is a ponytail with these OG’s and you’re good to go for almost anything.
The Rebel
Uuksuu, also $380, is another magical pair that redefines making a spectacle of yourself. They’re outright odd with a cunning cut and claret color that I adore. So unbelievably chic. Must have. When looking through these quirky Rose-Coloured Glasses I am confident I’ll be seeing Strawberry Fields Forever.
The Classic
KoKo, $430, in rich gorgeous tortoise, goes with anything. It will always have the right of way in every given scenario because it’s a class-act. I dare you–no, I double dare you–to wear these rims anywhere at all. I’m positive they would be equally appropriate worn on a yacht in Monte Carlo as they would if you attended a simple summer wedding or spent a day running errands, if you’re not lucky enough to have a personal assistant. These are necessary accessories.
Four Eyes
You’re not seeing double quite yet. Just between you and me, OG’s are for our eyes only and they are downright dope. Now I’m going to tell you why. A defining cultural icon since 1926, real OG’s feature impeccable craftsmanship, and epitomize luxury and style. Cheap rims are okay for a brief fling and they may serve a temporary purpose, but they won’t last and usually aren’t equipped with proper UV protection.
Lasting Beauty
Poorly-constructed glasses never really look that sharp, even in the beginning, plus they often won’t sit right on your face, and of course they will quickly deteriorate. If you can afford it, you’ll appreciate quality frames. You might have to pay the price for their endurance, stamina and longevity, but few good things in life are cheap.
For Your Man
OG’s are a worthwhile investment for the man in your life, making a truly timeless gift if you’ve got the dough. Julia, owner of the L.A. boutique Gogosha Optique opts for a pair of OG Paw Paws for her husband Kjeld, above.
In this case you’ll get what he deserves. Your OG sunglasses will stand the test of time. In fact, they’ll probably last as long as he does, because quite simply, they are down for life.
Child’s Play
Have you ever seen such a fly little pair like this? I’m not kidding when I say these specs will look precious perched on the bridge of your baby’s nose, making a most memorable first or last impression for children ages 4-14, from the Mini Icon Collection. Render your kid’s mug unforgettable with itty bitty shades. Despite their tantrums they are adorable, even more so in a cool pair of OG’s.
Fear and Clothing
You may be completely clueless about what’s going on around you in the world these days, but at least you’ll look fabulous wearing a chic pair of shades by Oliver Goldsmith. They are the ideal accessory for reflecting on the good times.
Mob in style with your homies, like my main man Al Pacino from Scarface, or dress up like Breakfast at Tiffany’s. I love this song, by Deep Blue Something. Check it out.
If the cops come around asking questions, make sure you’re wearing the geometric Fuz, above, $430, from the Icon series.
Remember to keep your mouth shut and your eyes wide open so you can take it all in behind a slick pair of old-school shades courtesy of Oliver Goldsmith.
Your pupils may dilate, but don’t worry; there’ll be no damage done because your prized OG’s provide full protection from harmful UV rays and are sure to cut even the most blinding glare. This is one instance where being shady is very beneficial.
You can look pimp or pinup or princess, or all of the above, depending on your attire. Remember, it’s entirely your decision because you are the one calling the shots.
Oliver Goldsmith has put in some serious work designing specs for every conceivable strain of good taste. A real OG’s ulterior motive is to make you look good. In this world, that’s a refreshing change of pace. I’m jus sayin tho.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Everybody has a past, and if they don’t then they’re not a very interesting person. Jane Richardson Mack must have a diverse resumé filled with exotic past lives of intrigue, because there is nothing plain about this Jane or her work.
I can only speculate the roles this gifted San Francisco Bay Area artist must have played spanning time in distant existences and other worlds. She’s Michelangelo, Cleopatra, Vivian Leigh, Mary Shelley and Elvis all rolled into one.
Like Mary Shelley, the writer responsible for bringing us the Gothic novel Frankenstein in 1818, Jane breathes life into inanimate ingredients and makes something lasting.
Packed with layers of cross-cultural connotations and both natural and historical influences, her art astounds. Check out this mural on an elevator panel, above, from the 2009 San Francisco Decorator Showcase.
The sheer beauty of the pieces leaves me speechless, and believe me, that is not an easy feat. It’s no wonder the one and only, music prodigy Carlos Santana collects her art and is one of Jane’s fans, because she is so Smooth.
Chasing the Dragon
Jane was invited by Gumps’s vice president Jon Leafstedt to create art pieces for their Year of the Dragon installment. Here she is, pictured below with one of her babies. “Giving birth to dragons is a prickly painful experience. I’ve had eight of them,” she said.
Mere photos cannot capture Jane’s dragons. They are awe-inspiring.
Legendary, and Mythical
Of the 12 creatures in the Chinese zodiac, only the dragon is mythical. It’s also the only one that’s legendary. The rest of the characters are real animals–the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog and pig. The dragon however, is unique and everlasting. How appropriate then, that Leafstedt would commission Jane for this job in particular.
Method Acting
Jane’s talent for role-playing has proven valuable in the process of creating dragons. As any worthwhile actor knows, you must understand the character you’re portraying and let it become a part of who you are. It’s the Stanislavski technique and without it the character you’re pretending to be is just make-believe–hollow and meaningless and devoid of true depth. It’s a shell of a person, a mere shadow of the character itself. Unfulfilled.
The pieces Jane has created reveal an understanding for the majestic beast. “When I close my eyes at night I am a dragon,” Jane told me. “I know what it’s like to see through the eyes of a dragon. You are a servant to the dragon. They like to play tricks on you,” she said.
Smoke & Mirrors
Each piece for Gump’s is Verre Églomisé–that’s French for ‘glass gilded’–it’s a pre-Roman art technique where a design is engraved into leafing on the reverse of glass for a mirror-like reflection.
Named after the 18th-century French decorator Jean-Baptiste Glomy who repopularized the method, it is used in doors and panels as well as freestanding art. Cleaning is like magic since the design is safely on the backside of the glass.
Above, Jane stands with one of her twins. She created a pair of fraternal dragons, one male and one female, $4,000 each, in this stunning jet display of Verre Églomisé.
Stage Presence
There were many, many beautiful women of all ages at the Gump’s Year of the Dragon event, but it was sweet sweet Jane who stole the scene with an effortless sex appeal and casual confident kind of glamour that was authentic and uncontrived and infinitely more appealing.
Footnote
Here is Jane with her boyfriend, above, an adorable guy who showed up to the fancy affair impeccably dressed from head to toe, wearing wing-tip Vans.
For a truly one-of-a-kind gift, Jane’s pieces are available at Gump’s San Francisco, priced from $1,600 to $5,100. Or you can do what the rich and famous do, and commission Jane to paint a mural in your home.
If you can’t cough up quite that much cash, Jane’s work is now on display at Gump’s San Francisco and makes a great date for you and your significant others.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
If you’ve waited til the last minute and still have no idea what to give or get, here are a few quick thoughts for memorable gifts at every price point for your girl or your guy.
One Size Fits All Lingerie for His and Hers
I will never forget the first present my husband gave me when we were dating as teenagers. It was a giant, thick, fluffy white full-length cotton robe that I still have today.
These things fit anyone, male or female. In fact, you can share, plus they wash like iron and come in handy when you’re in a state of half-dressed, running around the house, trying to cook a meal and do your makeup at the same time. They’re great for lounging and come in a rainbow of saturated tones or baby pastels, but white is always right and looks super luxe.
You can find robes at all price points, from $10-$20 at JC Penney, below, to $395 from Frette, above, and monogramming is often available free or, in the case of JC Penney, for an extra five bucks, and gives a special personalized touch.
Between the Sheets
For more lingerie with a perfect fit every time, consider silk sheets. In gem-toned ruby red or glossy inky ebony, silk sheets make a spectacular visual statement and are a luxury to the senses.
Agent Provocateur sells them, and they can be quite costly for the set. You could always start with the Glossy Housewife Pillowcase, $180, and build from there, or just leave it at a single pillowcase so your sleeping beauty can rest like a queen, or king.
Beauty Sleep
A silk pillowcase is an actual, real, documented beauty product, believe it or not, and carries a host of skin- and hair-care benefits. Dermatologists say that silk contains amino acids found in moisturizers and hair-care products, plus pure silk resists mildew and repels dust mites–good for allergy sufferers.
BedHead Be Gone
Silk provides a cooler surface for the face, but more importantly a smoother surface, so it actually prevents creases that would develop from ordinary cotton. In addition, if you wake up with bedhead on a semi-regular basis, silk sheets will reduce that too.
The friction of follicles against gritty cotton is not a good thing. If you have one ounce of natural curl, your hair is going to frizz and tangle while you sleep. With silk, it’s not going to happen.
Also, remember, silk contains hair-healthy essential proteins, so you’re actually conditioning your mane while you sleep. For this reason, silk pillowcases are growing in popularity with men.
Pillow Talk
Silk is quite durable and should be machine washed gentle with a bit of mild detergent. It dries much more quickly than cotton.
Beware of beauty supply satin pillowcases. You need to read the label. You want 100% pure silk.
Table for Two
A lovely dinner out may seem romantic, but eating out can get really expensive and actually be a hassle, especially if you have to consider a babysitter. You can always make a home-cooked meal or buy some cold-cuts from the deli and pick up some fresh fruit, or a couple of chocolate-dipped strawberries, and enjoy them together with a single candle. Money is not the important factor; you’re together, and that’s all that matters.
So, Happy VD everyone. Spread the love.
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