It's the Little Things...

Sometimes in life it's the small things that really put that much needed smile on your face and as trifling as some things may seem, such as-- the shampoo you use, we all need and even deserve those unexpected but well received surprises. I was running low on my usual shampoo and as I hurried through the grocery store the other day, exhausted and still noticably sweaty from teaching back to back spinning classes, I remembered that I needed to grab something, anything to accompany my conditioner during my much needed shower. As you know I have a predilection for bargain finds--so as I scampered down the tolietries aisle I was content to find a bottle of V05 shampoo, but in an unfamiliar scent-- Strawberries & Cream. I'm sure it's not new, but still...new to me & really I was quite intrigued by the delicious sounding combination. As insignificant as it was, that evening as I showered I was delighted to use my new shampoo-- It smells as wonderful as it sounds. Really-- it's like dessert for your hair! As my title implies, I realize that the subject of shampoo alone is inane... But again-- this is just one of those little indulgences, much like a sliver of chocolate cake or a glass of wine. For me it was a brief moment of unforseen pleasure. And if you're not going to actually eat strawberries and cream you might as well bathe in it!

COLOR ME BAD

Here is the 'Hair & Now' trend that I am loving that's been popping up as of late on risk-taking celebs (Kate Moss, Lilly Allen & Rihanna--to name a few) and just came down the catwalk in a big way for Proenza Schouler's 2010 show-- technicolor locks! Fekai styled manes came gliding down, looking oh-so bedhead chic & some even rocking punky purple & blue hues! I'm not exactly ready to ditch my God given color for an all-over, outrageous ultraviolet but I think that subtle streaks (see Julia's peek-a-boo pink) and color capped ends look young & fun! I admit it's not necessarily a look many of us could manage for work-- but if you're looking for a funky & temporary update for a night out, I think adding a touch of crayola is a risk worth taking. A salon quality product called 'Streekers' is available in 8 super bright shades and is totally temporary for your no-commitment fashion fix. Go ahead-- Color outside the lines!

MAD about PLAID

There is something about the crispness in the air as Fall begins to appear that just entices me to throw on something plaid! The inevitable winter whispers----- beckons one to think of this quintessential Fall must-have. I have always been fond of the "Royal Stewart" plaid (see photo above) that most of us are familiar with. It's just so regal! But I have to admit, I'm also drawn to the typical red & black, block style, plaid that is typically reserved for the Lumberjack variety. Plaid offers the best of both worlds, it's cozy & sophisticated, but also a little edgy. It's royal history lends a certain distinction while it's reference to 90's grunge rock gives it a rebellious flare! So as the temperatures continue to drop, free your inner Tartan & let your clan cloth fly!

It's almost here! I have always had a fascination with abstract art & although I find it hard sometimes to choose favorites, Kandinsky has always been my favorite artist-- ever since I was a child. Something about the bright, primary colors, the bold, rebellion of shapes over realistic, everyday observations-- a freedom from what was expected. An art form that did not mimic what we see outside, but what we internalize. Kandinsky-- to me, has always been what I think of as avant garde--daring, new, experimental, imaginative. The wild yet deliberate brush strokes has captivated my attention for my entire life & now I will get to stand in awe and gaze upon some of his most inspired work. The biggest retrospective in over 25 years, kicked off in Paris at the beginning of the summer, showing the artist's major works between 1907-1942. This international exhibition draws from the three largest public collections--Paris's Centre Pompidou, the Stadtische Galerie in Munich & New York's Guggenheim-- whom all play host. The Kandinsky exhibit will be on display at the Guggenheim September 18, 2009-January 13, 2010. I KAN hardly wait!

Walk Like an Egyptian

I am such a fan of the collaborations between designers & retailers such as Target, Kohls, Penny's, etc. --as you all well know. So when Payless joined the ranks, I was equally as intrigued and excited. But sad to say, I was quite disappointed in the Alice + Olivia collection & hoped that another designer might swoop in & produce something fierce in the future to really catch my eye. Well his ears must have been burning because Mr. Fierce himself, Christian Soriano, (we'll let him & Tyra quibble over who coined "fierce") is the newest designer to debut his footwear & accessories collection for Payless. His line is set to grace select Payless stores on September 8th- BUT there is still some question about what these shoes will look like when they are finally unveiled. His initial collection came down the runway at Fashion Week in February with guns blazing! The Egyptian inspired footwear was ravishing with spikes, chains & sky high, gold, cone heels-- but apparently they have already gone through a serious editing phase to appease the masses. A slightly lower heel would be more practical for those of us not sauntering down the catwalk on a daily basis-- But, I LOVED the initial collection so I'm hoping there is still some sass and grit left when they finally hit stores next month. I think the light blue, hieroglyphic like, platforms are seductively sweet & the rich, brown booties have a wearable edge. Everything is reasonably priced as expected, $25-$45-- so recessionistas rejoice!

Project Pregnancy

I have been gearing up all summer for the return of one of my favorite reality shows & finally the momentous day came--last Thursday. Project Runway's 6th season is underway & as always I am sitting on the edge of my couch praying that they put together a show stopping garment within their limited time frame that will wow both me & Heidi. Oh, there is always a zipper gone awry, someone has their measurements off a bit & they are scrambling at the last second-- it is grippingly intense. I am in complete awe of these people-- every time I watch PR I promise myself (again) that this is the year that I will take a sewing class. The first episode's challenge was a red carpet dress--always fun, but alas no red carpets are in my immediate future... But the second episode, to my delight was actually something relevant & ready to wear for who else- Mommies to be! How timely! The designers had to make an outfit for guest judge, who was then expecting twins, Rebecca Romijn. Maternity wear on Project Runway-- for moi?! I can only hope that Blue Fly offers up a similar style to winner Shirin Askari's dress ASAP! (Pictured 2nd) (Don't mind her model's morning sickness look--she was trying to get into character, I suppose.) I've included my favorite garments from last night's episode-- Dressing for two never looked so good!

Rockabye Baby!

As I said in my previous entry-- life has been such a whirlwind as of late & my biggest discovery yet came just a few weeks ago... Ryan & I are expecting! Being pregnant has opened me up to a whole new world of fashion, music & necessary contraptions, so I have decided to include some of these things from this point forward on Di'chic! I always give credit where credit is due & I was not responsible for unearthing this unbelievably precious, musical gem! My older sister, Alex, who is also preggers, (sister's doing it together, that's right) called me the other day to tell me about a line of cover cd's-- but this isn't Scarlett Johansson covering Tom Waits, thank goodness (it just wasn't her best project)-- it is a collection of popular rock tunes that we all know & love but in lullaby form to soothe the little ones to sleep. Brilliant! Right? You're still offering up the same relaxing, plucking sounds of familiar lullabies but already increasing their musical knowledge from day one! Everything from the Beatles to Metallica to Marley is available-- so while your mini me is napping in their car seat, you can secretly be rocking out to your favorite jams! It gives a whole new meaning to "I wanna rock n' roll all night & party everyday" doesn't it?

Nothing's better than the Fall

So let me start by apologizing for my leave of absence-- life has been crazy! But alas-- fashion waits for no one & although I've been MIA I've still had my eyes open to what's coming down the runway to inspire our Fall fashion. Just as the leaves on the trees stay put-- but change colors, we must find ways to transition our warmer fashion frocks into the cooler, coming months. No need to rush out & buy an entire new wardrobe just because the seasons are a changing-- just grab a few Fall pieces that will allow you more time with your sunny, summer staples. One of the easiest ways to carry on through the colder months is an obvious choice-- adding a jacket, blazer or cardigan over your current sleeveless/short sleeve tops/dresses. My favorites for Fall overlays are cropped leather jackets, anything military inspired, fitted blazers, especially with a rock & roll edge & cardigans in bold hues or animal prints! But layering is not just about piling fabric on top of fabric-- look underneath. Grab your favorite Spring/Summer dresses & throw a turtleneck on under it, instead of adding bulk with a heavy coat. Plus-- make certain that you're paying attention to the fabrics. My newest fabric obsession is rayon. Finding t-shirts that have an 80% rayon-20% cotton blend are great! They are lighter than cotton- so they are wonderful in the warmer months, but also work better when layering so you're not adding inches to your shape! They seem to hang better, looking more chic & more figure flattering than our cotton tees of yesteryear. I bought 3 this summer (100% rayon, actually) in black, grey & light blue- great pieces to have! Plus, don't feel obligated to bury all traces of summer trends. Take the fluorescent pink top & pair it with something sleek & black for Fall, amping up the eternal relationship between fashion & rock & roll. Although I love the Fall color palette, don't confine yourself to darker colors. Hot pink is still going strong! Continue to find your inner bohemian by adding a furry vest & knee high boots to your floaty, floral dresses. I promise f you rake through what you have & add some of these key pieces to the mix you'll be floored at how many Fall outfits come to fruition without breaking the bank. You'll thank me when you're not hitting up the CoinStar machine for your holiday shopping!

Neon Summer

Okay-- I can't speak for everyone, because I know for my friends & family down South the heat wave has been underway for some time. Unfortunately for those of us up here on the East coast-- we are still waiting for summer sun! Rain, rain--go away... I won't dismiss the few unbelievably beautiful days we were blessed with, but for the most part we are dealing with a serious lack of warmer weather. Hope it's coming soon! When rainy days and lower temps are bringing me down a few things can inspire me to get in the mood for brighter days-- one of those amazingly cheery things that scream summer are-- NEON colors! There is just something about these vibrant, highlighter hues that bring on summer's warm embrace-- Like summer lovin' from South Beach! Lucky for us *Op* has teamed up with Wal*Mart to bring their surfer chic line to the masses, all for under $15! Loads of SUPER colorful bathing suits, shorts, sundresses & more. They have solids & prints so the combinations are endless-- most separates are priced at a mere $7.50! I went ahead & included the corny ads featuring the likes of the Madden brothers, Josie Maran, Christina Milian, (remember when she came to our high school?) Rumer Willis, Pete Wentz, Kristen Cavallari--among many others, but don't let those deter you from scooping up a few flirty, neon suits for summer! Look at how much fun they're having in their Op! Be frugal & fluorescent!

Ironworks Music

A few months ago I came across the band 'honeyhoney' & heard that they were signed to Keifer Sutherland's record label--Ironworks Music. The first song of theirs I heard was "Shiny Toy Guns" & I rather liked it, so I decided to explore what the '24' star was up to. In addition to 'honeyhoney' Ironworks represents the likes of 'Lifehouse' (who many of you probably know), 'Rocco DeLuca & the Burden', 'Sexsmith' & 'Billy Boy on Poison'. Sutherland & his friend, Jude Cole, renowned singer-songwriter, manager & producer said that Ironworks came to be after they opened a artist driven recording space and just invited musicians they liked to come down & get creative. "It's actually something that just organically turned into a label. It was more of a natural progression," said Cole. But what drove these two rather already successful entertainment patrons to nurture these artists? I'll let Mr. Cole tell you: “I think we’ve both had multiple experiences where we had a project that we were so passionate about, and maybe didn’t have the control to follow it through when someone else dropped the ball. We were both anxious to be in the position where we could find things to remain passionate about and let the inspiration lead the way. We really want to keep it on the level at which there is a reason that we release each record.” A subtle, sign-language gesture for corporate entertainment-- I like it! But what's more is, that I really like the Ironworks artists! They definitely have a great, punky, alternative rock sound that I'm really diggin'. I LOVE "Saturday's Child" by Billy Boy on Poison. Have yourself a listen!

Ooh La La!

On the last day that Bigs & Lindsey Jane were in town, we decided to take it easy & stay close to home-- so a little stroll around the Cherry Hill Mall seemed like a great, low key, afternoon idea. Somehow we managed to walk directly towards the Food Court & there in the middle of all the blah, fast food chains stood-- 'Crepe Maker'. Just like the Crepe Stand we frequent in Breckenridge, CO, they made the crepes right then & there & could be filled with anything of your choosing. We three excitedly scanned the menu, complete with loads of entree & dessert options. I had just completed an exceedingly far run that morning, so I decided to really indulge-- I ordered a "To Die For": a thin slice of cheesecake, chocolate (Nutella- a creamy, chocolaty hazelnut spread), strawberries, bananas & some whipped cream- all wrapped up in a delicious, thin, crepe- made right before thine eyes!!! Lindsey Jane got something similar with ice cream. There are many ways to waste calories- but this was not one of them. It was probably the most sinful thing I have ever put in my mouth-- rich, divine, dessert. For a moment I was in heaven. We all gushed about how jealous everyone would be of our amazingly sweet find. When I returned home I decided to look up 'Crepe Maker' & luckily for my friends & family in Dallas, there is a location at North Park Mall! So when I come home to visit, I can still enjoy my delightfully thin pancakes! Check out their website for more locations & catering information: http://www.crepemaker.com/ C'est magnifique!

British Invasion

My lovely grandmother, whom we affectionately call--Bigs, is currently in town to visit me along with my cousin, Lindsey Jane. As we planned for our trip, this past Thursday, to go to NYC for the day, we discussed what we wanted to see, how we wanted to travel, but more importantly, what we wanted to eat. I always assume everyone wants to enjoy a slice of pizza while visiting the Big Apple, but Bigs was not too keen on that idea. So, being that my beloved matriarch, wanted something different, I looked elsewhere for dinner inspiration. For those of you who are not aware--Bigs is English & was born & raised (during World War II, mind you) in London, so I figured...why not take her somewhere that I know she'll enjoy. So off we went to, what is referred to by some as "Little Britain", a couple of shops & restaurants, nestled right in the heart of Greenwich Village. So we ate supper at 'A Salt & Battery' an authentic fish & chips shop-- This was my 2nd trip there & it was as gratifyingly greasy & delicious, as I had remembered it being. More to the point, it was just as good as the fish & chips I had while in England! Afterwards we headed next door to the shop side of 'Tea & Sympathy' & purchased some PG Tips (great English tea) & a Mars bar (one of my favorite English chocolate bars), which we promptly enjoyed. (They also sell adorable teapots!) Then off to yet another British shop 'Myers of Keswick' which had even more English goodies for us! I was quite impressed with their selection-- I grabbed some OXO, wonderful bullion cubes for cooking; a sausage roll, which I devoured today with some Branston Pickle (a sweet & spicy, chutney-like sauce--Yum! Yum!), a jar of clotted cream for scones & about a pound of chipolatas--delicious, thin, sausages. We are going to use the chipolatas to make 'Toad in the Hole'--sausages baked into Yorkshire pudding (like a thick, popover, type of bread) for dinner Monday evening. I can hardly wait! Between family meals and my time spent there, enjoying Engish food really brings back a lot of fond memories. If you haven't sampled it before, you really must. To great English grub--Cheers!

A Salt & Battery

112 Greenwich Ave.

Between 12th & 13th St.'s

(212) 691-2713

http://www.asaltandbattery.com/

(Next door to one another!)

Tea & Sympathy Store & Restaurant

108/110 Greenwich Ave.

(212) 989-9735

http://www.teaandsympathynewyork.com/

Myers of Keswick

632 Hudson St.

Between Horatio & Jane St.'s

(212) 691 4194

http://www.myersofkeswick.com

KOHLed Over

A few weeks ago, it occured to me that I hadn't popped into KOHL'S in a while, so I made the trip. I knew there would be some cute pieces fom Vera Wang's collection 'Simply Vera' to browse through but I was utterly delighted to find much more happening once I took a look around. I had heard through the grapevine that ELLE magazine launched a clothing line with KOHL'S but I was a little skeptical at first. I must say-- I was pleasantly surprised. Adorable tops, mostly casual wear, but they had great, little details that really caught my eye. Then, I was excited to finally see the Dana Buchman collection that had launched earlier this year-- classic pieces with a bit of flare that could make any woman feel very put together. I fell in love with her tunics--they are so perfect for summer. Obviously I did see what Vera had to offer & was really feeling her shoes! Sandals galore! Sexy, strappy, stacked heels & colorful, dressy, ruched, thong sandals-- beautiful options to adorn your perfectly pedicured toes this summer! I don't know about you, but I'm ready for a heat wave!

Oh Honey!

I'm sure many of you have already discovered the bath time wonder store that is: LUSH. I first encountered LUSH while I was living in London and was thrilled to discover, before leaving jolly old England, that LUSH locations were already popping up stateside! That was almost four years ago now & they seem to be everywhere- bringing the masses great, natural products for the bath, shower & more! One of my FAVORITE products ever is their 'Flying Fox' Shower gel--it is packed with loads of exotic Jasmine & sweet honey. It smells amazing & totally soothes the senses. I actually look forward to lathering up with this after a stressful day because of the calming effects I think it has. Just take a whiff & you'll know what I'm talking about. Just recently, I picked up their 'Brazen Honey' exfoliating mask & I LOVE IT! As I was reading the descriptions at the store, one caught my eye that read--When you're thoroughly ashamed of how you've been treating your skin... I had just gotten back from Chicago & had been noshing of great, not necessarily healthy food, definitely had been drinking more alcohol than H2O & getting about as much sleep as a new mommy...So I figured I would fall into that category. It claimed to detoxify, brighten, nourish & balance all skin types without completely drying out your skin & I have to say it is a miracle mask. I have been using it about once a week & my skin feels so good--it leaves your face feeling velvety soft, evens out skin tone, clears up blemishes & makes your skin brighter! What more could you ask for? I have just been ga-ga lately about everything honey--with good reason! Forget sugar baby, get yourself some honey!

Juicy Jambalaya-Stuffed Chicken

Here is another delicious recipe that I found in one of my old Rachel Ray magazines. I've made this at least twice since I rediscovered it & can't wait to make it again soon! It's fairly easy to make & will put a little Louisiana flavor into your evening- Di'Licious! Bon apetit!

Bacon-Wrapped Jambalaya-Stuffed Chicken

Serves 4 Prep 20 min Cook 20 min

Ingredients:

8 slices thick-cut bacon
1 onion, finely chopped
1 rib celery, finely chopped
1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
4 ounces shrimp (about 12)-peeled, deveined & chopped
1 cup crumbled cornbread (about two 3-inch squares)
Salt & Pepper
4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)

1. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat, turning often, until half cooked, about 2-3 mins. Transfer to a paper-towel-lined dish. Add the onion, celery and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 mins. Stir in the shrimp and cook until opaque, about 2 mins. Stir in the cornbread; season with salt & pepper. (Tip* Shake some hot sauce into the jambalaya stuffing for an extra little kick!)

2. Cut a 2-inch-wide slit through the center of each chicken breast, beginning with the thicker side and cutting horizontally toward the center to make a pocket. Fill each with one-quarter of the stuffing; press opening to seal.

3. Place 2 strips of bacon on a work surface. Lay a chicken breast crosswise on the strips and wrap the bacon around the breast; secure with toothpicks.

4. Cook chicken in skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side. Turn the chicken, cover the pan with a lid and continue to cook, turning once or twice more, until the bacon is crisp and the chicken is cooked through. (You can also put the chicken in the oven for about 30 mins. at 350 degrees)

5. ENJOY!

Madeleine Peyroux

There has definitely been a reemergence of the chanteuse over the past few years. The female singer with the sultry and seductive style of a nightclub or cabaret sound seems to find it's way back again and again. Made famous by great names like Edith Piaf, Billie Holiday & even today's Norah Jones. There is something soothing yet exciting about this jazzy, sexy style that appeals to the masses. Madeleine Peyroux's interesting, French upbringing coupled with her knack for covering diverse material from W.C. Handy to Bob Dylan gives her sound a unique blend of past and present. She covers the famous "J'ai Deux Amours" sung by Josephine Baker to Allied troops during World War II. Her somewhat husky voice begs the comparison to Billie, but she still maintains a style that is all her own. Her songs seem to have found just the right balance between trial and triumph. I have yet to get my hands on her newest album--Bare Bones, released March 10th, but I am in love with her sophomore album--Careless Love. My favorite tracks are: Dance Me to the End of Love, a ballad that encompasses everlasting love, Don't Wait too Long, an upbeat number about taking chances on love; Between the Bars, a story of self loathing and personal limbo; This is Heaven to Me, a positive anthem about being thankful for what you have. There are so many great songs on this album- Transport yourself to a Parisian cafe by taking a listen to Madeleine Peyroux.