Where to begin?
First, excuse please excuse my sporadic posting. Between my job, my semi-existent social life and some very amazing (yet wildly unexpected) surprises, I have been trying to catch my breath, literally, for the past couple of weeks.

Second, I KNOW you saw Usain Bolt in the 200 yesterday (or the day before, actually). I’m always skeptical when someone wins by that much… but putting that aside, I mean… WOW.

Last (but obviously not least), I have designer Layla Abramowitz’s new label Ditu. This unique line combines an innovative blending of fishing line with knit fabric to create an unexpected composition that yields rigidity, texture and structure to a generally soft, stretchy material. The resulting knit fusion has a similar feeling to “body-control lingerie,” giving shape to many of Ditu’s pieces, including collection staples such as the body-shaping Apsara corset and Pillar skirt. Her line is reminiscent of swim off the docks at Fisher’s Island, you know, when phosphorescence light up the water? Maybe that was too random. Anyway, you’ll love her new collection, “Towers of Babel.”

Back to catching my breath….

Yesterday was one of those days I wish I could pause and go back to whenever I’m having a bad day. It started with a relaxing, self-reflecting run around Jamaica Pond, was followed up with several relaxing hours at the beach (thanks again LG!!) and finished with a conversation that lasted into the wee hours of this morning… Seriously? What does it take to start every week off like this?!

Anyway, I thought I’d write about fashion designer Leila Hafzi because her gorgeous clothes kinda capture how I feel right now.

Leila was doing the whole ethical/ fair trade way back in ‘97 (before it became the thing to do). Not only are all of her collections are stunningly beautiful, Leila constructs each of her theme-inspired collections with an eye on the environment. Her goal has been and continues to be to develop and entirely environmentally friendly production cycle. Her production company, Nepal Productions DA, is making great strides and is a member of The Ethical Trading Initiative in Norway. As I just mentioned, all of her collections represent various themes, for instance the Alpha Verte Collection (photo above), focused on the topic of environmental changes. Her latest collection, 03 is inspired by the life-essential ozone layer and the ozone molecule, 03. Leila promulgates her message of environmental responsibility and activism through her lush interpretive designs. The result is a gorgeous series of collections that make you stop, gasp, and ultimately think about the issues they represent.

Oh and BTW the song of the day (which I’m sure you know because I assume you have seen Garden State) may actually be my favorite song ever. I can’t even really explain why… I just love it.

If I’ve said once, I’ve said it 1000 times: TGIF!

Anyway, today is all about Alchemy…. turning useless into useful and all that. As you know,  alchemy is the medieval science of turning lead into gold. More generally, it means magically turning something of lesser value into something of greater value. For Alchemy Goods (Ag for short), the value isn’t economical, so much as ecological. Ag looks for materials that are normally discarded that might have value with a little bit of imagination and some hard work.

Every Alchemy Goods bag purchased represents one less part of our world destroyed. That’s why all of their products have the highest possible recycled content. At the same time, their bags are superbly functional and aesthetically pleasing… you will love the cool materials they use like seat belts for straps and refashioned (sturdy) inner tubes for bags.

The logo intentionally looks like the periodic table. The number in the upper right hand corner represents the percent (by weight) of recycled material in the product you purchased. Cool, right?

Before I sign off for the day I wanted to give you the heads up on MAC’s “Cult of Cherry” collection… I’m seriously obsessed… Especially with the Rich & Ripe lipglass…

As you may have gathered, this week has been crazy. Full of changes. All good.
In fact, as I watched the sun set over Boston Harbor yesterday, my general disdain for The Bean was replaced with this warm …. appreciation… it was actually breathtakingly beautiful over there. Crazy, right? Anyway, like every other day this week, today should be an adventure. Plus, I’m looking forward to a little celebration in DOT tomorrow…

My posting has been somewhat sporadic lately because my internet has been acting up. Today I decided to give you two posts… and I’ll warn you now, I’m in a very random mood.

The post before this is literally one of my favorite hip-hop songs of all time. I heard it for the first time in a couple of years yesterday and its been playing on repeat ever since. I thought you’d enjoy. If I was a boxer, this is the song I’d want that playing when I walked down the little ramp-thing. That or Da Rockwilder (I told you, random mood).

This post is about Brazilian brand, Totem. Totem opened its first store in 1994. After two years supplying designs for other brands, fashion designer Fred D’Orey decided that it was about time to put his vision in practice and start his own line. His first store was located in his backyard in Ipanema. (Fred is a native of Ipanema where he was a surf champion several times in the 70’s and 80’s, how cool is that?) Now he has stores all over Brazil and is expanding world-wide! You’ll love his use of color and shape… he certainly captures his love for the open sea in his flowy designs.

Anyway, hopefully my internet situation will resolve itself so I can get back to my regular posting schedule. Enjoy the day… and Watch for the Hook….

Tomorrow: We’ll turn lead into gold :-).

Life is always in flux… It’s like, the moment I think I have everything figured out, something (or someone) comes along confuses things again. I’m not a drama queen by any stretch of the imagination (you know those people who need constant drama in their lives to be happy? Yuck!), however I do need a semi-constant source of inspiration, otherwise I get bored and/or do stupid things. I adore interesting people, interesting situations, and interesting perspectives. What I’m trying to say is, I like the flux.

Today is going to be a an especially fluxy day (spell check is telling me that “fluxy” isn’t a word). Anyway, speaking of a life in flux, be sure to check out Fluxus, a great little clothing brand from Cali. The brand celebrates the relationship between art and everyday life by combining different artistic media in their fun and versatile collection. The collection uses simple shapes and patterns, but combines them in unique ways to create a fun perspective.

I would write more, but I feel a spontaneous George Michael morning dance party coming on.

This has been an interesting weekend to say the least. A good friend told me once that I think too much… about everything. So instead of dwelling on distant conversations, side long glances, and mid-night epiphanies on Milk Street, I ran like 5 miles this morning. Not the 7.1 I had intended, but this past week was full of unexpected things.

After a quick trip to Newbury Street (it’s kinda like my Sunday ritual) I think I’m going to stretch out on the  sofa and relax. What could be better than wine, cheese, a good book and some super-lux Lavande?

Lavande SWK (pronounced lah-VAHND) is a line of fine intimate apparel designed to feel like a gift to the wearer and observer alike. Inspired by the beauty and fluidity of the female body, Lavande has passionately created a collection that accentuates that form. Made exclusively of the finest imported silks, laces and vintage-inspired trims and finishes, each piece is fashioned to applaud, highlight and pay homage to the feminine figure.

Owner and Creative Director Stacey Walker King spent ten years in the fashion world, beginning in the buying offices of Saks Fifth Avenue and most recently as owner of personal shopping firm, iCovet, Inc, which catered to high net worth executive women. “The modern woman of style seeks out items that are exceptional,” she says, “even if she’s the only one that will appreciate them.” As a matter of fact, the fact that they are hidden adds to her mystique and allure. “The feeling of lush, decadent fabrics against bare skin is confirmation all day long that you are worth it.”

Simply put, Lavande SWK is for the woman who knows that she is worthy of luxury and this applies to all aspects of her life.  She does not save her fine china for dinner guests. Reheated leftovers and great wine are all she needs to break out the Lenox. Likewise, she doesn’t save her best lingerie for special occasions. SHE is the occasion.

Self-celebration? You don’t need to tell me twice!

“I’m only happy when it rains….” Ok, that’s not entirely true (hair issues), but it is supposed to be a rainy miserable day here. I loved this song when it came out. I was also obsessed with Shirley Manson… I love her style!

Anyhoo, as usual, I’ve been really bad with my e-mails lately, but I got one yesterday from Erica in Santa Monica about Frey Wille and thought I’d share. I’ve actually been meaning to write about this Austrian company for some time and I guess this was the push I needed.
The artisans at Frey Wille get their inspiration from modern life, historic periods of art (ancient Egypt, Greece), or from the masterworks of famous artists (Claude Monet, Gustav Klimt, Friedensreich Hundertwasser, Alphonse Mucha). Authenticity rules their creative concept: decorative elements are carefully selected and applied to these great masterpieces and new works of art (bangles, rings, belts, scarves, watches) are created. Not only are you buying a piece of extraordinary jewelry, but a piece of art history as well!

I can’t believe how fast this week is zipping by! It’s already Wednesday . . . (or should I say, Dot, Dot, Dot?)

Kim the Quilter wants to change the way people look at quilts and the people who make them. I personally love quilts (my mom has a huge collection back on the Cape)– but I must admit they don’t always fit with my decor. With that in mind, Kim of Don’t Quit Your Day Job, has taken quilting to a new eco-friendly level that I’m sure you’ll love! Let’s start with her bags.

How adorable are her B.O.B.’s (now I’m going to have Outkast stuck in my head all day…) Anyway, a B.O.B. is a “bag made out of bags” and this one is just perfect for your lunch! Why waste a platic bag every day trucking your lunch to work when you can do it in style with a B.O.B.! Each lunch B.O.B. saves 9 plastic bags from a landfill. They all have velcro closure and act just as a brown paper bag would. They are made by using a unique folding technique for a sturdy B.O.B. then they are quilted over to make them more durable. Plus, they go for around $14 on Kim’s Etsy site, so they’re a great deal! She only has four in stock at the moment, so grab them while you can!

Kim’s talents extend from her extensive bag collection (she even has a cool quilted messenger super-reasonably priced at $45), to a fun not-your-mother’s (sorry mom) quilt collection. This one featured below was made as a tribute to her old stomping grounds in BK… I miss my days in Brooklyn too! She also has a cool cassette-quilt on Etsy that is a definite conversation starter!

We’re coming to that odd part of the summer where everything is still for about a month. The weather tends to settle down, work tends to fall into a pattern, and there are no crazy holidays to break the cycle. We have to wait until September for things to kick off and when they do it’s like a jolt. I always get restless mid-July through August. Like I’m waiting for something to happen… but then, in retrospect once things start to happen, I always look back on this languid period with a sense of longing. Isn’t that always the way?

Speaking of longing, you’ll be longing for Anna Kim’s handmade womenswear collection, Lemonstory (named so because the color yellow usually makes her feel bright and warm when she sees it.) Anna, who always wanted to be an artist, explains that, “Clothing is the piece of art that we position closest to the human body. It changes the look, the character, and the mind of the person who is wearing it.” As such, all of her designs are made to order, paying special attention to detail and to the individual buying the garment.

Anna strives to make timeless pieces that are both unique and feminine. One look through her Etsy shop and you’ll see she’s definitely achieved her goal! She’s been getting buzz from Sprig and Gen Art Pulse so be sure to shop her site before she gets seriously backed up with orders!

I actually chose Brains-on-Fire today because I feel like the girl in the picture (and because I wanted to start my day quoting Dylon). She’s got a sorta Mona Lisa scream thing going on… I mean she could ecstatically happy (notwithstanding the cuffs) or extremely frustrated or she could be somewhere in between… and I could be too depending on what aspect of my life you ask me about. It’s never a dull moment and always about extremes for me in the Bean. Anyway, I thought you like these shirts because they’re fun, playful and unique. Gen Art did a nice little write about Brians-on-Fire this time last year, and you can find their stuff at TG-170.

I should be writing about pare* umbrella again. What’s up with all of these t-storms!?

Of course I have apartment drama right off the bat! Isn’t that always the way? It seems that my neighbor and I are most def not going to get along . . . it’s a shame really, but more annoying than anything. I would usually refrain from posting such tid-bits on the site, but based on her general appearance I seriously doubt she reads this, or any other fashion blog for that matter. Don’t you just hate it when people can’t be reasonable (or, in keeping with the post theme, “b. reasonable”)? Anyway I plan on working here all day so it should be interesting. I’ll keep you posted.

As for today, aside from the small chance of rain, forecaster’s are saying today is a perfect beach day. If you’re anything like me, you’re not impressed by the average swim suit. . . you want something fun and unique… something no one else has. I know it’s a bit late in the summer-game, but if you’re planning any August or early September beach outings (Labor day on the Vineyard anyone?), you should definitely check out b. swim. B. Swim is a self-professed kitchy new swim collection that features innovative silhouettes that are decorated with electric prints and specialty trims. B. specializes in a low rise fit and an alternative style you won’t find anywhere else… so b. the trend-setter that I know you are and check them out!

There’s nothing like waking up on a gorgeous summer morning, knowing you have the day off. I think I’m going to get highlights.
I’m still debating what to do for the 4th. As much as I’d like to do the Cape thing I just don’t think I’m up for the traffic battle. Plus, I move into my new place on the 6th so there is still much packing to be done.

Speaking of battles, I’m sure traffic and everything is going to be crazy in the city this weekend. The whole thing reminds me of my post a couple days ago about the urban-survival brand 21MC. I must be a combative mood or something, because today’s post is about a very cool label, Sophie Hulme.

The concept for this collection is concealed combat…an armoring of womenswear, if you will. The collection integrates traditional military clothing and detailing into luxury garments. Prime examples include, a fully sequined military parka, jackets armored with jets and military M65 jacket with a bow tied in the back.

Hulme’s first collection is centered around “key pieces” such as jackets, coats, bags and hats. It’s to be followed by a collection of dresses and shirts for S/S 09 (can’t wait to see them!)– I mean seriously, how cool is that sequined jacket?

Each collection has a chosen trinket that comes with every garment. This season is a whistle, inspired by air force bomber jackets. Hulme’s trinkets will build a growing jewelery line alongside the clothing collection– cool concept, right?

Anyway, have a great 4th if I’m too busy to post tomorrow!

UPDATE: Newly discovered blog! Who knew Boston was this stylish? Beyond Boston Chic reminds me that even though I’m not in NYC anymore (before you get all huffy, know that I was born here and that I’m a Sox fan not a Yankee’s fan), I can still find style on the street!

*Sorry for the Fergie reference this early in the morning…
Anyway, I know I may seem kinda two-dimensional when you read these posts… the whole court vs. couture thing. One thing that’s extremely important to me that I rarely write about is the gym. I try to go everyday, but of course life gets in the way from time to time. I used to be a super-competitive runner… I have to say its absolutely the best therapy out there. No matter how bad my day is, I can usually reconcile things with a couple laps around the pond or a good workout at the gym.

Sometimes, even when life doesn’t get in the way, I have a hard time motivating. I know it may be sad, but on those days, I’m always grateful for the collection of adorable (yet highly functional) gym clothes I have. The mere practice of getting out of a work suit and putting on a gym outfit is therapeutic in itself! Honestly, if I could wear guy clothes like Ivee’s all the time, I’d be one happy girl!

Ivee is a new line of high performance workout clothes for women. A lot times, collections designed specifically for women fall short in the performance department and try too hard to be cute. Not so with Ivee, they do a great job of creating a stylish line that’s full of functionality! I love the Sydney bamboo pants! If you’re fitness minded you’ll love their stuff… if you’re looking for a little motivation why not grab a cute new outfit and show it off at the gym?

It’s officially summer! That means roof deck parties (if and when I ever move), trips to the Cape and some much needed vacation time! Of course there’s the whole “planning of the summer wardrobe” as well…I wish I could say I was more deliberate about the clothes I wear… to be honest, I usually just grab the first thing in my closet and roll with it. It helps when your closet is stocked with great brands like Asli Filinta. Her line of t-shirts, scarves and hats are so unique and so intriguing that they’re sure to look amazing with anything!

Hailing from Turkey, Asli currently resides in NYC where she combines her life experience (such as her travels from Turkey to Istanbul and beyond) to create exotic yet decidedly wearable fashions. She also has a cute little selection of e-cards on her site, which are not only clever in design, but clever in creation (what a great way to promote an up-and-coming brand!)

Shop for Asli Dilinta’s collection (as well as other great designers)  at Pixie Market.

Yesterday Lauren suggested that we go to Sara Campbell’s tent sale after work. I have to admit I was a bit skeptical…
First, I’m always exhausted after work and yesterday was an especially draining day. Second, it required me driving in Boston which is something I definitely don’t enjoy (I think I honked at about 10 cars as I tried to follow her through the South End). Lastly, I wasn’t convinced I was going to love the clothes, though I have to admit everything Lauren wears from SC is gorgeous.

After paying the small admission fee (the money going to charity, of course) we entered the cute little tent sale next to her studio. I was blown away by the large selection of gorgeous pieces and the amazing prices that only a sidewalk sale can bring. Our crew definitely cashed in, buying suits, dresses, an adorable little silk top and a stunning spring jacket. (I would tell the grand total, but you probably wouldn’t believe me, best to go check out the sale for yourself).

Anyway, I’m now fully convinced that (1) No matter how exhausted I am, a great sale (and good company) will always rejuvenate, (2) I still HATE driving in Boston and I’m amazed I made it home in one piece and (3) I’m definitely a fan of SC’s fabulous collection!

More about Sara Campbell:

Vivacious color combinations, flirtatious flair, unique sense of style… whatever it may be, Sara Campbell is eager to create designs that allow her customers to feel special every day.

Sara Campbell LTD embodies the personal grace and spirit of its founder and creative director, Sara Campbell. A fashion designer, artist, and entrepreneur Sara is the constant force of energy behind all creations and ideas that come out of her Boston studio.

A Massachusetts resident with California roots, Sara earned her degree in design from the University of California, Davis. She later moved to Boston for graduate school at Lesley College for a Masters in Art Education. It was in Boston where she met and was soon mentored by the late Corita Kent, an artist and educator whom she set up a private tutorial with, at Mass College of Art.

Sara began her career in 1982 as a featured artist in a wearable art gallery and museum shows. This lead to the birth of a women artist mail order catalog, where Corita was an initiator, contributor, and partner on the project. Sara’s one-of-a-kind garments became a numbered, limited edition series.

Today, Sara creates, designs, and produces two lines, Sara Campbell and Sara Jane. Each represent timeless and classic design elements with modern fashion sensibilities, creating lifestyle collections of dresses, formal suiting, and sportswear for women with an ageless attitude and tireless spirit.

A fashion designer, entrepreneurial business owner, wife, and mother of two young daughters, she is the constant supporter and advocate of working for the common good. It is this spirit that is at the heart of events held at the retail store of Sara Campbell. It is the core mission of the company to give back to the community.

Check her out in the South End @ 44 Plympton Street (the sale goes on through the weekend) and click her collection online.