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.

The Mad Hatter- Stephen Jones

As I was about to get on the plane to depart from Heathrow, back in February, I noticed a rack, full of free copies of 'thelondonpaper'. As I read through, I came to 'thelondonstyle' section and was totally defeated to see, what I thought to be an amazing exhibition, coming to the Victoria & Albert Museum, merely days after my trip concluded. February 24th (I flew back on the 19th...) saw the launch of a collaboration between the museum and legendary hat designer, Stephen Jones's to create a three month, hat anthology. The collection features more than 300 hats ranging from an Egyptian Anubis mask from 600 BC to modern day couture created by Jones and his contemporaries. Other famous hats include: Audrey Hepburn's 'My Fair Lady' hat, the Queen's headscarves, Carmen Miranda's extravagant turban & even the famous bunny ears that Agyness Deyn sported for Commes des Garcons. There is something about women in hats that is truly powerful, dramatic and most of--memorable. The exhibition also has numerous categories: Inspiration, how history shaped many of these designs; Creation, the heart of millinery; The Salon, a public showcase of the craft at it's best; The Client, famous names, from Royalty to movie stars. "It draws on millinery collections world-wide and is truly an eclectic and exciting anthology of hats from BC to the present day," says Jones. A beautiful meshing of fashion, history & culture...came to town right after I left England. Now I'm just going to have to wait & pray, that this glorious exhibition does so well, it decides to travels West.

Buxom = Beautiful!

Another thing that my Mom passed down to me was the relentless pursuit of finding the perfect mascara. Every time a new mascara debuts, whether it is Covergirl or DIOR, I HAVE to try it out! So when my best friend, JB, came in town in January for a visit & pulled an unfamiliar, silver & black tube out of her makeup bag, I was beyond curious! It was on that day that she introduced me to Bare Escentuals Buxom Lash Mascara. I am definitely a believer in different mascaras for day/night, but this could most certainly be used for both, which is why I think Buxom appeals to me so much. It only comes in 'blackest black' so it has a very dark, inky, pigment & is seriously volumizing! The more coats you apply, the more punch it'll pack without it ever getting clumpy. It is not as overly dramatic as DIORSHOW Black Out, but still gives you those fluttery, movie star lashes! It definitely has all day/all night staying power, so you won't be wiping away little, black flakes from under your eyes-- The hour glass shaped, synthetic brush is probably my favorite feature. It delivers an even amount, so no globs at the root & piddly amount at the tips! This wonder brush distributes just enough and seems to create a lengthening cap at the tip. All the while still separating, as to not give you tarantula lashes! If you are on the hunt for a great new mascara, look no further! A wonderful product, that's paraben free! So you can feel good about investing in Buxom Lash Mascara!

Mother Always Said...

Use Kiehls!!! A number of years ago my Mom discovered this brand as she was traipsing through Neiman's in Dallas. We have always been fans of using petrolatum based products and I still think that Vaseline is one of the best skin protectant's out there. So it's no wonder that we are all such fans of Kiehl's lip balm! I remember my Mom bringing tubes of it with us when we went skiing. She swore that nothing else could keep her lips from getting chapped on the slopes & went on to find & adore their All-Sport Non-Freeze Face Protector (SPF 30), which is also a skip trip must have. When I was in Philly last weekend, I came across one of their stores & hurried in to grab some of their newer, scented lip balm. They have SO many delicious flavors: Vanilla, Mint, Cranberry, Mango, Coconut & my personal favorite: Pear! I already have their hued lip balm, which I LOVE! in No. 30G, a very sheer, peachy red & wanted to get their other color No. 58B, a deep berry tint. They are the same great lip balm but with a nice, subtle, hint of color. Both are beautiful! They loaded me up with tons of samples as I checked out & now I'm crazy for more Kiehls! Their "Simply Mahvelous Legs" Shave Cream is hands down the BEST shave cream I have ever used. Then their Gently Exfoliating Body Scrub in Grapefruit did not disappoint either! Now I know why they give out so many samples. They know if they let you try it, you're going to come back in to buy it! Do yourself a favor & get some Kiehls!

Yay for Ray!

I heard Ray LaMontagne perform on Saturday Night Live and instantly fell for his soulful sound. He performed "You Are the Best Thing" and it was one of those songs that I could just listen to over and over again. I was so excited about Ray, I looked everywhere the next day to find his latest album 'Gossip in the Grain' which actually came out back in October. To my dismay, I was having a hard time locating a copy & couldn't fathom the idea of having to wait to receive it in the mail. Finally, success! After calling around town with no luck, I got some good news & snatched up my coveted CD right before closing time Sunday evening. You can definitely hear his influences Otis Redding and Ray Charles, he has a raspy, earnest hunger in his voice. Honest lyrics, coupled with a mixture of folk rock and bluesy jazz creates a uniquely raw sound. This is probably the best album I have heard in a while-- a great blend of tracks. My favorites are "You Are the Best Thing" an upbeat, sincere theme song; "Let it Be Me" an authentic ballad, lyrical poetry that really moved me; "Meg White" a gritty love letter to White Stripe's drummer...Meg White. Now that's aggressive & I like it! You have to get your paws on 'Gossip in the Grain'!!!

Vicky Cristina Barcelona

As you all probably know, just over a month ago Penelope Cruz took home that swoon-worthy little, gold man for her performance in Vicky Cristina Barcelona. In her acceptance speech she thanked Woody Allen for writing some of the "greatest characters for women". Her portrayal of Marie Elena, is one of those women. She is an impulsive, creative, inspiring, force of nature, a complicated woman and artist. Aren't we all? Many of her lines are in Spanish, her first language, which I think perhaps she is more comfortable with, and allowed her to show more depth and range. I am sure now that she is more than just a pretty face. I am such a fan of the way Woody Allen tells a story--something about the way he writes, it is very rich, descriptive & passionate but never feels pretentious. More to the point, he does create such interesting characters that breath so much life into what sometimes can be a pretty predictable plot. They are always smart, sophisticated yet still flawed and relatable. The real gold lies within the dialogue between his characters. It is always witty and charming and I find myself taking lines from his films and hoping to insert them into my own conversations. ("No one's ever asked for their money back." -Nola Rice, Match Point) I was so intrigued by this film, the setting, Barcelona (obviously) is so alluring and seemed so right for finding love, which happens again & again. There is such an appreciation for Spanish culture that lends so much as well; the scenes of hypnotic, Spanish guitar and the immense focus on the unique Gaudi architecture. It is a beautiful film, about what else? The complicated trials of love, lust and a semester abroad--A MUST see!

What's in Your Binn?

Whilst cruising one of my favorite websites: http://www.luxuryculture.com/ I was "window shopping" and lusting after dozens of high end items when I came across a piece by Tom Binns. You know when you see a piece of art for the first time that really moves you or you hear a fantastic tune that lives on your personal playlist forever? Well...that's pretty much how mesmerized I was by this Tom Binns necklace. So of course I started Googling away, searching for more awe inspiring pieces from this master bedazzler. The more collections I found of his the more fascinated and blown away I was by his originality and craftsmanship. No stranger to recognition, he received the CFDA award for best accessories designer in 2006 and has collaborated with designers like Vivienne Westwood & Calvin Klein. His anarchist jewels have been featured in Harper's Bazaar and Vogue now for decades. So where did Binns find such inspiration for his jewelry collections? He was influenced by the Dada movement, a cultural response to World War I which rejected the prevailing standards of art. Through Dadaism's nihilistic view comes his unmistakable and deliberate rebelliousness. Taking anything and everything from vintage diamonds, beach glass or flea market finds to create an untraditional piece of wearable art. Check out the diversity in his numerous collections from simple elegance with a modern twist to Gothic and abstract. http://www.tombinnsdesign.com/ Unbelievable!!!

Monk's for Beer!

So as you can imagine after getting so excited about my new shopping stop in Philly and running in and out of stores for the better part of the day, we got hungry. I had looked at Philly's website a few days prior and on their list of 'Top 10 Things To Do' was eating/drinking at Monk's, a well known Belgian beer emporium & restaurant, famous for their 'Beer Bible'. So that's exactly where we headed. It was as I expected, packed with loyal patrons ready to wait it out- the host told me two hours for the three of us, but I called his bluff. We went to the back bar and enjoyed their tasty, Belgian brews and after about an hour we were seated. We ordered pommes frites, their award winning double fried frites accompanied by bourbon mayo to start- bad for you, but oh well...great fries! Then I got the Provence mussels: fumè, celery, olives, bell peppers, mushrooms, leeks, garlic, parsley & cream. The last time I had mussels that good I was in Brussels! If you are ever in the city of brotherly love you must stop at Monk's and pay homage to the 'Beer Bible'!

Since moving out to the East coast I've directed the bulk of my attention towards New York. I mean you can't really blame me, it is the most populous city in the United States and is revered internationally for it's culture and entertainment. So where better to go for my shopping and foodie needs? Well, I decided to give good, old Philadelphia a try-- I've only been out there once or twice and otherwise my only business there was going & coming from the airport and getting a cheese steak at Gino's. So when my friend Heidi suggested we go on Saturday for a little shopping excursion and that she had a great little place she wanted to show me, I jumped at the opportunity. I was introduced to yet another delicious shopping stop that only a select few East coasters get to enjoy: South Moon Under. They have locations thus far in: Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, and of course Pennsylvania. But don't worry my Southern & Midwest maidens, you can shop online at http://www.southmoonunder.com/ They carry TONS of great & very versatile apparel and jewelry designers, plus they have their own label! So whatever your style is, you are sure to find something you'll LOVE in this store! I grabbed a wide, green, woven headband & a deep purple, pleated, shoulder bag. Happy shopping!

First Lady of Fashion

Let's put our politics aside for a moment shall we? However you may view her as a person, or whatever your political affiliations may be, one thing is indisputable. Michelle Obama sure knows how to dress. She is a breath of fresh air in a world once ruled by pant suits. She is modern and fashion forward sporting some of the youngest and most eclectic designers. Yet she still maintains that classic Jackie-O sophistication, regularly donning pearls. If I didn't know any better she was reading Di'chic! Erickson Beamon jewels, Thakoon, Jason Wu, Tom Binns necklaces!!! (more on those later- she is totally inside my head) I love how colorful her wardrobe is and she is always right on target for the event- Wearing American designer, Michael Kors for her first official portrait, how apropos! I'm always looking forward to seeing what she's going to step out in next. Finally, a First Lady with great style!

Chicago's Signature

The last night I was in Chicago with all my friends we went to The Signature Room at the 95th floor atop the John Hancock Center. We had a stunning view of the Chicago skyline and enjoyed seeing the buildings bathe in daylight, descend into dusk and finally submit to darkness, only left with their glowing lights. The girls sampled the extensive cocktail list, while I stuck to "my signature" Stoli dirty martinis-- they even had my favorite- blue cheese stuffed olives! Plus, divine baked brie! It was definitely a great memory & probably my favorite part of our entire trip in beautiful Chicago.

Knock Knock...That's Who's There!

While I was visiting my good friend, Caroline, in Chicago I noticed that she had a quirky notepad on her fridge. It read "ALL OUT OF" across the top & below it was every type of grocery item from vegetables to toiletries with little boxes to check off as needed. (Pictured above) I am such a list maker so these stationary gems are right up my alley! I snatched up the "ALL OUT OF" notepad from the Urban Outfitters around the corner from her flat but a wide variety of retailers carry this witty brand. Stop at their website http://www.knockknock.biz/ & see all their fun folders, file totes, books, sticky pads & more. From practical "PACK THIS" to silly yet straightforward "THINGS YOU MUST DO TO MAKE ME HAPPY" these pieces of paper are all guaranteed to make you smile with their clever wordplay.

The Bean

After visiting Chicago, how can one not mention the giant, reflective bean nestled in the center of Millennium Park. My friends and I went to visit "Cloud Gate" or more commonly known as "The Bean" not just once--but twice, as illustrated in my photos by my change in ensemble. Whilst we were snapping away we decided that "The Bean" is such an attraction and such an amazing piece of art because of how it inspires you to be more creative yourself. And to me... that's what makes a piece of art great.

Sugar Bliss

Fresh from my long weekend in Chicago I have a sweet treat for you! After a long day of shopping, my girlfriends and I wandered into this adorable bakery- Sugar Bliss. Dainty rows of petal topped cupcakes greeted us with a deliciously unique range of flavors. They also offered minis!!! A nice alternative for me, who was still reeling from our massive brunch. I opted for a mini pumpkin patch and savored my limited number of bites...it was pure heaven. It reminded me of my pumpkin chocolate chip cookies that I make in the Fall- so moist! But the icing was what really sold me. I am very picky about icing because I think too sweet icing often times overpowers the taste of the cake. This icing was so creamy though and just the right amount! Sadly, their only location as of yet is in Chi-town...but you can salivate over their daily flavors on their website at www.sugarblisscakes.com. Check out all their great flavors from classic vanilla/chocolate to crazy orange creamsicle! Di'Licious!

SALE ALERT!

Thakoon launched his line for Target back in December and I am delighted to let you all know that much of it is now marked down. I think it is a really fashion forward line that boasts Thakoon's signature floral prints, a playful color palette & even tie-dye done right! Target's answer to resort debuted around the holidays, but is far more appropriate for the upcoming warmer weather. It was priced well to begin with but now how can you afford NOT to have it? I got three tops today for $20!!! I'm constantly singing the praises of Target and the designers they lure in. But the only thing I like more than these collections for Target, is when they go on sale!

Gifts from Whitney

Not surprisingly, art museum's tend to have the most original and unique gifts in their shops. The Whitney Museum of American Art in New York is no exception. I recently discovered their quirky collection of Warhol dining sets. I think this is such a clever way to bring some great modern art into the house without completely redecorating! The best part is that they are reasonably priced: $15-$22. They also have a warehouse blowout sale where everything is under $5!!! Visit the Whitney museum store at: www.whitney.org/www/store/index.shtml

The Warhol collection is under 'Gifts'. I LOVE these Marilyn plates! So put on some Velvet Underground & turn your kitchen into The Factory!

Thank the Lord & Taylor!

For whatever reason certain stores seem to forsake certain areas of the country. Since I grew up in Texas I wasn't familiar with Lord & Taylor and it wasn't until I moved to the East coast that it became a shopping stop of mine. It's similar enough to other nice department stores but since I signed up for their mailing list, I've been getting discounts, promo codes & e-mails galore from them. As you could imagine, I get e-mails from many others but Lord & Taylor offers exceptionally great deals. Just the other day I got an additional 25% off coupon for anything already on sale/clearance! I was impressed, so if there is a Lord & Taylor in your area, go ahead & hand over your e-mail address so you can cash in on these generous discounts. I also received their 'Must-Haves for Spring' which include: Day gowns, oversized sunglasses, one shoulder dresses, feminine blouses, cool blues, bright cardigans & cross body bags! (Pictured above) Visit their site: http://www.lordandtaylor.com/ and you can flip through their Spring 2009 Style Book! The sweet swoosh of magazine pages turning is even included--Very fun! Lord does Spring look good! Now if only the temperatures could keep up with fashion.

Ronson's saving you Penney's!

I'm always excited about designers creating lines for "the rest of us" and now we have another retailer in the ring. Charlotte Ronson's collection for JCPenny, I Heart Ronson, is now available online & in stores. Aesthetically, it is delightfully similar to her higher-end collections, with unexpected cutouts, understated vests, cozy, over sized cardigans & of course, stripes & ruffles galore! Prices range from $15 for layering tee's & tanks, to $26-$44 for blouses, sweaters & jeans, to $40-$65 for dresses & jackets. Casual, yet still maintaining Ronson's flare, these recession buster prices are sure to please. Spring has sprung!

When I was visiting my sister & brother-in-law in England a few weeks ago they asked me if I had heard 'The Fear' by Lilly Allen. "It reminds us of you," they said... I had forgotten about it, but remembering those words, I was curious & decided to have a listen. Quite cheeky & overwhelmingly fabulous... I now understand why. I've never been a big follower of Lilly's but now I'm on board. If she continues to bang out delicious & unapologetic lyrics like this, we'll be best friends by the end of the year! Keep the dry Brit wit coming!

I've been saving my fashion/foodie magazines for years, so a few weeks ago I decided that a little Spring cleaning was in order. As I perused my stack of oldies but goodies I discovered a Rachel Ray from a few years back. I went through & ripped out a bunch of recipes & let my husband pick out a few that he wanted to try before he left. Yesterday I got around to finally making the stromboli bread and I have to say, it was probably the best sandwich I've ever had! He agrees! I actually had to pat myself on the back-- but in all honesty, it was so easy, which makes this recipe a godsend! The prep work and baking time together took less than 30 minutes & the list of ingredients is fairly short. Did I mention it is very inexpensive? If you're

tired of turning out spaghetti with bolognese sauce as your only Italian dish and want to mix it up a bit, this is a delicious yet still cheap alternative. One thing I will say is that it is best right out of the oven & although still tasty the next day, not quite as good. Bon appetit!

One 16-ounce loaf Semolina Bread

Salt

2 bunches broccoli rabe, cut into 3-inch pieces

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO)

1 pound bulk spicy pork/chicken sausage

3 cloves garlic, chopped

Pepper

Freshly grated nutmeg (optional) *I put about 1/4-1/2 teaspoon in!

2 cups shredded provolone cheese

1 cup grated parmigiano-reggiano cheese (3 generous handfuls)

8 thin slices mozzarella cheese

Pat's Stromboli Bread: Serves 4

1. Preheat the oven to 375. Slice bread lengthwise & hollow out the top & bottom pieces to make room for the filling. *I would suggest cutting into 4-6 inch sections per person prior to adding the sausage mixture.

2. In deep skillet bring 2 inches of water to a boil. Salt the water & add the broccoli rabe, simmer for 5 minutes.

3. In another skillet, add EVOO & brown sausage over medium heat, about 8 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 2 minutes. Add the broccoli rabe, season with salt & peper & nutmeg, if wanted.

4. Fill the bread shell with the sausage mixture. Top with the provolone, parmiagiano, mozzarella and bread lid. Wrap the sandwhich in foil & bake for 10-15 minutes.

Beauty on a Budget

I pride myself greatly in being someone that finds truly awesome deals... So you can imagine my excitement when I came across http://www.thebudgetfashionista.com/ created by Kathryn Finney, initially a fashion blogger, which led to her writing the best selling book 'How to Be a Budget Fashionista- The Ultimate Guide to Looking Fabulous for Less'. My mother always said that I had champagne taste & it's definitely true. I have the innate ability to walk into a store, an art gallery, even a restaurant and gravitate towards the most fabulous & usually most expensive item. But alas, I have no trust to dip into at this time & still more depressing no million dollar contracts on the horizon so I've had to find creative ways to get the most bang for my buck. The Budget Fashionista is definitely an avenue to explore if you're looking for great deals, coupons & checkout codes, shopping guides, sales & shopping events, the works! So if you're looking to stretch your dollar a little further, take a peek at this gem-- Happy Shopping!

Hall-elujah! Kevan

Does Kevan Hall ever get it wrong? Looking back at his Spring collection, Stage Door, the answer is a clear and resounding NO! (Pictured above) I love that every collection is truly inspired and Stage Door was no exception. Hall reincarnated the style of famed MGM costumer Adrian to show old Hollywood glamour that still translates beautifully on the modern red carpet. Most designers have a niche that makes them unique but Hall allows his influences to spur his creativity, never falling into a rut. His past collections have called on everything from the Lost City of Atlantis to 70's Diana Ross to an African Safari. It's not just clothes coming down the runway, there's a definitive theme and a story being told. It's so refreshing to see something new and so dramatically different every season. It's always a surprise and what's more is it's always right on the mark. It's like Santa brought you exactly what you wanted, but you never even had to ask-- but twice in one year! I can't wait to see where Hall takes us with his Fall 2009 collection!!!