Resorts: Diana Kauffman Designs Jewelry

Hitting the Resorts this season? Beautiful selections from Diana Kauffman Designer Jewelry Collection.

Crystal Springs Resort, NJ One of the most exclusive resorts in the NYC/NJ area is at Crystal Springs as they offer a variety of amenities including golf, a spa, hot tub, sauna and Biosphere Pool. When you think of Resort Wear, it's got to be chic yet comfortable for days on the beach and nights at the country club.

Striking just the right balance are these lovely statement pieces from Diana Kauffman Designs Jewelry. This jewelry takes its cues from nature but uses beautiful, precious metals to enhance the richness and flair of stone & glass.  Handcrafted in the USA, no two are exactly alike as the semi-precious stones offer a one off creation due to their own uniqueness and formations.

Diana Kauffman Sea Star Earrings 2 and Sea Star Signature Necklace

These designer pieces offer the essences of both sea and land which compliments resort wear so elegantly  for most any occasion. In the lead photo, I wore these beautiful drop earrings at Crystal Springs Resort with ancient Roman Glass to and in the pool. They were the perfect accessory to a rather simple black bikini but added just the right amount of sparkle.

DK's Laurels Collection with Roman Glass

"The Laurels Collection" Roman Glass Earrings
These beautiful drop earrings are handcrafted in Pennsylvania from real laurel leaves electroformed in sterling silver. Notice the accents of copper and sterling beads with genuine ancient Roman glass which is dated to be between 900-1200 years old. The iridescence is caused by centuries of natural weathering as the glass interacts with earth minerals.
These earrings are very light and comfortable to wear. Even with long wet hair, these earrings hang low enough not to tangle your mane. They look amazing with a swimsuit and dazzle in the candlelight at dinner.

The Laurels Collection Roman Glass Earrings

Sand Star Signature Bracelet:
Greek leather bracelet in cool gray with crackle glazed ceramic beads, copper starfish and silver clam shell spacers. Magnetic closure.
My wrists are really tiny so I tend to shy away from bracelets that are difficult to put on and keep on. Not so with the Sand Star Signature & River Rock natural bangles. The leather makes them very comfortable to wear and is a lovely contrast to the metal accents. The crackle glaze on the ceramic beads adds a layering of textures to the piece. The starfish and scallop shell complete the nautical theme on the Sand Star. Perfect for a day out on the water.

Sea Star and River Rock Bracelets

River Rock Bracelet
Genuine Greek leather bracelet with handmade ceramic beads glazed in tan and gray. Antique bronze magnetic closure.
The River Rock Bracelet reminds me of vacationing at Lake Hapatcong, near where I grew up. You would see sailboats and yachts skimming over the rounded rocks, worn by the lake into such interesting shapes. Again, the leather is gorgeous on this piece and contrasts with the crackled glaze on the ceramic beads of tan and grey.  

Diana Kauffman Simple Statement Pieces compliment a variety of fashion selections. However, I found these pieces to be perfect for my resort stay from lounging at the pool to enjoying a delicious dinner and wine with friends.
Want to see more jewelry collections for your resort getaway?  Visit Diana Kauffman Designs online HERE.

UPDATE!!!

Diana Kauffman will showcase her jewelry collection at Accessories the Show at the Javits Center in New York City on August 3-5, 2014!  She will be at Booth# 1634, so be sure to check out her collection! More show & designer details HERE.

 

Jewelry c/o Diana Kauffman Designs

Photo Ready Hair Ideas with Fortune Wigs, NYC

Photo: Kenneth Deutsch.  Hairstylist - Esther Tobias for FortuneWigs.com

Brooklyn, NYC Springtime in New York. What could be better than trying out a new hairstyle or color to go along with your spring makeup? Sometimes we forget that hair is perhaps our greatest beauty accessory. Maybe that's why we're afraid of change because if it's wrong, we have to live with it until it grows out!

As an editor and model, I really can't afford any down time due to a bad cut or color job. Adding in that most of the time I'm traveling on short notice and may not be able to schedule an appointment with my stylist. That's why every fashion forward woman should have at least one or two quality wigs in her bag of style tricks. Every working model is fully familiar with hair extensions, add on falls and wiglets.

My original style: Photo shoot for Artisan Studio Works.

Unless you're Lady Gaga or Kim Zolciak (Housewives of Atlanta & Don't Be Tardy) an over the top hairstyle that looks decidedly "wiggy" may not be the way to go. However for appearing in public, professional engagements and travel, you are going to want something natural and flattering.

Fortune Wigs, NYC
This family owned and run establishment is located in Brooklyn and offers online as well as walk in appointments. Most NYC models will go to a dedicated wig salon like Fortune Wigs to have the hair matched or checked against skin tone and "cut in" or styled directly on them. This is important because here you have access to some of the top stylists in the city customizing the hairpiece to your individual specifications. Fortune Wigs further sets themselves apart by offering Virgin European Human Hair which is indisputably the finest in the world.

Having the hair "cut in" brings it to life on you!

Top NYC stylist Esther Tobias adds beautiful layers and movement.

The Salon Experience
Everyone at Fortune Wigs was so helpful and friendly. They treated me like a princess! The selection was incredible and they can even customize your piece with additional hair or highlights / lowlights. All of the pieces I tried on were extremely light, comfortable and natural looking. Esther Tobias is the lead stylist and Fortune Wigs is built on her incredible artistry and reputation. When you order online, your hair selection comes to you in a lovely black round soft box with a mirror. Perfect for traveling! I was so pleased that I look forward to going back again as this was a amazing beauty makeover experience.

Each quality hairpiece ships in its own soft travel case.

Hair Ideas
Since the hair piece I selected is very close in texture to my own hair, I am able to treat it just like my own! I use Calista Ion Hot Rollers which are very gentle on my hair. Virgin European Hair like this has not been processed or colored so it is soft, silky and very healthy. Fortune Wigs sells only human hair pieces and has Kosher Certification for women who cover their hair for religious requirements. Wear it up or down. Back in a pony tail or in an up sweep. The choice is yours without the commitment of changing your own natural hair color or texture. Whether you've had hair loss due to medical conditions or a cut/color that's just not working for you, Fortune Wigs can be a lifesaver and change your world. Visit FortuneWigs.com online or call 718-614-1368.

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Hair by Esther Tobias - Fortune Wigs, NYC.  Makeup: Kett Cosmetics, NYC.   Photo: Kenneth Deutsch, NYC

Hair & Styling c/o Fortune Wigs NYC
Special thanks to Joseph Y. Miczak for our transportation and lunch at Junior's (Cheesecake) Restaurant in Brooklyn!

New Launch: British Sterling HIM Private Stock & Reserve

Perfect for HIM: British Sterling

British Sterling Fragrance for Men has been a well recognized brand for a number of years. However this relaunch by Dana of the HIM (His Imperial Majesty) line is really something quite extraordinary. 

is a subtle nod to King George VI who was one of only a few British Royals to hold that title and whose military background led him to work tirelessly to strengthen the image and resolve of England after World War II. - See more at: http://globenewswire.com/news-release/2014/04/28/630739/10078718/en/Iconic-Men-s-Fragrance-British-Sterling-Re-Launching-in-May.html#sthash.Iz7r1KMM.dpuf

is a subtle nod to King George VI who was one of only a few British Royals to hold that title and whose military background led him to work tirelessly to strengthen the image and resolve of England after World War II. - See more at: http://globenewswire.com/news-release/2014/04/28/630739/10078718/en/Iconic-Men-s-Fragrance-British-Sterling-Re-Launching-in-May.html#sthash.Iz7r1KMM.dpuf

With a subtle nod to His Imperial Majesty, King George VI, one of the few British Royals to have held this title, British Sterling is reaching out to a new generation of well groomed men. In fact, sales of male grooming and skin care products have seen a steady rise over the past few years. No longer the realm of the "metro-sexual" smelling good is now synonymous with looking good. The British Sterling line has always had a "James Bond" sort of edge as the packaging is the most elegant and recognizable of those currently sold.

So I was pleased to see the update to the bottles still included the beautiful silver shoulders and cap. So here's what's new with the relaunch:

 

is a subtle nod to King George VI who was one of only a few British Royals to hold that title and whose military background led him to work tirelessly to strengthen the image and resolve of England after World War II. - See more at: http://globenewswire.com/news-release/2014/04/28/630739/10078718/en/Iconic-Men-s-Fragrance-British-Sterling-Re-Launching-in-May.html#sthash.Iz7r1KMM.dpuf

is a subtle nod to King George VI who was one of only a few British Royals to hold that title and whose military background led him to work tirelessly to strengthen the image and resolve of England after World War II. - See more at: http://globenewswire.com/news-release/2014/04/28/630739/10078718/en/Iconic-Men-s-Fragrance-British-Sterling-Re-Launching-in-May.html#sthash.Iz7r1KMM.dpuf

British Sterling HIM Private Stock-comes in a clean, white opaque glass bottle with the signature silver shoulders and cap. The Spray top means they guys can spritz it on all over vs the usual after shave which has to be poured into the hands.

The fragrance itself is very light and clean but decidedly masculine. Top notes include fresh citruses with a bold woodsy middle note. Warm mosses and sensual amber round out the bottom notes making it a very contemporary mens fragrance.

British Sterling HIM Reserve - is very striking in its black opaque glass bottle with silver shoulders and cap. Once again the spray application lends to a lighter, all over application of the fragrance. It can even be lightly sprayed on under clothes after laundering for an extra layer of scent.

HIM Reserve offers a provocative Asian blend of aromatic spices, intriguing woods and suede undertones. The overall fragrance is decidedly British Sterling but with more mysterious undertones than the Private Stock. I would "reserve" this fragrance for evening as its sensuality may be a bit more than one would want for daytime wear. Very distracting for us ladies!

Both releases from the newly launched British Sterling lineup will include body wash, sprays, antiperspirants and an advanced three piece shave system. All will be available at most major retailers, (Walmart, Rite-Aid, Kmart) offering luxury grooming products at affordable prices. These updates offer more of an urban vibe representing the new sophistication of the UK man. Dressing well and smelling pleasant is in fact a form of good manners which every man can most certainly afford. Want more information? Visit British Sterling on Facebook

Eau de Toilettes c/o Dana

Bling in the Holiday with NYC Designers Isaac Mizrahi & Nora Gardner

Your Holiday Style begins with the perfect LBD blinged out with these key accessories. Dress: Alyssa by designer Nora Gardner, NYC

New York, NY Tis the season for holiday office parties and corporate events where you want to let your personality shine. Never underestimate to power of first impressions. At one corporate Christmas Party, I was introduced to the dean of a local college who recommended me for a teaching position which I accepted! How you present yourself is key and a polished, elegant look is what to aim for. Start with the perfect Little Black Dress from NYC based designer, Nora Gardner. Here is her "Alyssa":

"Alyssa" transitions perfectly from the office to an evening affair with a few accessories.

Alyssa Dress by Nora Gardner
First of all, let me say that this is one NYC fashion designer who "gets it" when it comes to clothing for active, young professional women. I love Nora Gardner's Alyssa for its V-neck and lovely fitted waistline thanks to a generous invisible back zipper. The bit of Spandex means this dress is comfortable for sitting and walking. The slit pockets make it perfect for a day at the office but the fit says anything but matronly. Wide shoulder bands means no worries about wearing a strapless bra underneath and the length is just right.  Wear it to the office during the day and add a statement necklace for after hours.

Alyssa Details

Offered in Dark Grey and Jet Black

Hits at the knee

37" from high point of shoulder

Model is wearing Size 0

Fit: Narrow Hip (see size chart)

Shell: 50% Polyester, 46% Rayon, 4% Spandex

Lining: 100% Polyester

Care: Dry clean only

Find a Sizing Chart Here.

Proudly Made in New York City-Visit Online at NoraGardner.com

PRESS UPDATE:

NEW DESIGNGER NORA GARDNER will hold their first showroom sale TUESDAY through THURSDAY,  December 10, 11, 12 

UP TO 80% OFF RETAIL - FASHION FORWARD WORKWEAR - OFFICE READY DRESSES AND SUITS WITH SOPHISTICATED STYLE

339 West 51st Street (between 7th and 8th), #1C * New York, NY 10019

HOURS:  NOON -3:00 p.m., 5:00 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. - and/or by appointment

Text Nora directly at 203-550-1022 for appointments

Isaac Mizrahi Live!
NYC fashion designer Isaac Mizrahi has a beautiful collection of watches this season. His Live! line offers lots of bold designs but I fell in love with this much more dressy, demure Crystal Watch.

Isaac Mizrahi Live! Crystal Bracelet Watch

Unlike my other bracelet watches, you don't need to take this watch to the jewelers to shorten the band. Simply open and remove the extra links by hand to get the desired wrist width you need. My wrists are extremely skinny so for a watch to fit me without falling off is quite a feat. Face is a lovely white Mother of Pearl with Roman numerals. See this watch and more at QVC.com

Isaac Mizrahi's Crystal Watch at a NYC party.

Crystal Bracelet Watch Details

• Silvertone; stainless steel backing and crown
• Round and square, clear crystals border case and bracelet links
• White mother-of-pearl dial; Roman numerals at 3, 6, 9, and 12; bars at other hours; silvertone hour, minute, and second hands
• Bracelet with two removable foldover clasps
• Japanese movement
• Adjusts from small to large
• Approximate measurements: Bracelet 8"L x 1/2"W at links; Removable links 3/4"W; Case 1-1/8"L x 3/4"W
• Box, instructions
• 5-year Limited Manufacturer's Warranty

The Crystal Bracelet Watch comes beautifully gift-boxed.

Add Some Sparkle! 
You can really add interest to a little black dress like the Alyssa with both a watch and a little vintage evening bag. This is not the time to be shy, especially if your dress is monochromatic. Here my evening purse has an added snowflake pin over top the silvery sequins. It goes perfectly with the Crystal Watch!

Detail showing the snowflake pin I added to this vintage evening bag.

Sparkly Evening Bags 
Don't be afraid to add even more bling to bag or clutch for the evening. A dark, solid dress needs a bit of sparkle and your bag and bracelet (watch in my case) can give you the glitter you need to stand out. Also keep in mind that your nails can be accessorized with some beautiful sparkle finishes shown in the Holiday 2013 Collection from China Glaze.

Don't forget to bling those nails too. Happy HoliGalze Nail Lacquers from China Glaze

Happy HoliGlaze Nail Lacquer Collection from China Glaze
NEW for Holiday 2013 are these eye-blindingly sparkly nail lacquers from China Glaze, Los Angeles, CA! These all have built in nail hardeners and dry to a gorgeous finish. Pop one or all in a festive design for your next holiday party. See more holiday collections online at ChinaGlaze.com

PHOTO: Nail Lacquer Colors Left to Right
Bells Will Be Blinging - Elfin' Around - Your Present Required

Dress, watch and nail lacquer c/o Nora Gardner- NYC, QVC and China Glaze respectively. 

Editors Celebrate Fashion Week: Drink and Cocktail Ideas

Some specially crafted cocktail party ideas just in time for Fashion Week 2013!

Fashion Week, NYC Going to fashion shows, meeting with retailers and interacting with PR people are all part of an editor's day. Multiply that times TEN during Fashion Week which kicks off in NYC today!  This is the time of year that I like to do loft parties and late evening get-togethers with my editor colleagues (shout out goes to Madam Editor of GaveThat.com & Magda my super assistant!), photographers and technical people whom I rely on all year.

Entertaining Thoughts
Fashion Shows are known for their high-powered music...and that's just on the runway. After parties are even more crazy. Rather than hire a DJ, I have a Karaoke Machine that docks my iPod for endless song selections. This is being done at a lot of store events too. The tower speakers are amazing for sound quality and with two microphones, everyone gets a chance to step up to the mic and belt one out. Easy to read lyrics appear on a full color 7" screen. This is so much fun!

My Singing Machine Karaoke System with be rocking my Fashion Week Parties!

Cocktails Anyone?
You can go the Skinny Girl Cocktail route but I prefer to craft my own drinks and keep the alcohol light. Always have some hot or cold hor dourves available buffet style so your guests can have something to eat with their drinks. You don't want the other editors waking up the next day with a headache! Here are some special drink recipes just for NYC's Fashion Week!

To go with your cocktails: Delicious Pears, Cheeses, Crackers and Salami fresh from Harry & David Orchards

Fashion Week Cocktails!

THE PUBLICIST

Intense and long-lasting. That’s the inspiration for this sparkling later afternoon highball.

1 part vanilla vodka

1 part Drambuie

Polar® Orange Vanilla Seltzer, and lots of it

Lemon peel, garnish (because it’s easy, otherwise use orange peel)

Build the drink in a highball glass, by pouring vodka and Drambuie over crushed ice. Top generously with Polar® Seltzer and stir gently, taking care to not bruise the bubbles.

 

 THE MARKET EDITOR

Anyone who spends half their time on an airplane searching for the newest designs always looks forward to the comforts of home. In this case it is a sparkling version of a “whiskey sour”.

2 oz quality American Bourbon (Whiskey)

1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice

Egg white

Polar® Vanilla Seltzer

(if you need to sweeten it add a teaspoon of agave)

Vigorously shake the whiskey, lemon juice and egg white in a shaker. Once there is a bit of froth pour over ice in a double old-fashioned glass. Top generously with Polar® Seltzer.

THE PATRON

Every young American designer needs a sparkling European patron. A perfect combination of old world and new.

2 parts Campari

1 part quality Gin

Polar® Orange Vanilla Seltzer

Splash of freshly squeezed lemon juice

Begin by chilling Campari, the gin and the lemon juice in a cocktail shaker with ice. Pour into glasses, and then top generously with Polar Seltzer.

THE ASSISTANT

This ultra “skinny” cocktail gets the job done.

2 oz quality lemon vodka

Polar® Lemon Seltzer

Lemon peel, to rim glass and garnish

   

Resort Fashions Newport Mansions - LBD Goes from Beach to Evening

PHOTO: The Breakers, the grandest of the Newport Mansions

The Breakers, Newport RI One of the things I really enjoy about traveling in New England is the easy, yet elegant style you'll see from Nantucket Island, Mass. to Newport Rhode Island. When I took the tour of The Breakers which was the Vanderbilt summer cottage, there was the Cliff Walk and many other seaside attractions. Newport also has a vibrant nightlife as it is home to the Newport Jazz Festival each year. So how about a dress that can go from the shore to a night out at a posh dinner club?  Here you go!

Horny Toad's Metamorphose Dress can be worn so many ways.

Daytime
Hand Bag: Handwoven Pewter Sand Dollar Bag from NewportStyle.net, the Newport Mansions Stores.  This bag is somewhere between a tote and a Nantucket basket purse. Handwoven of natural Ata grass, it is a work of art but the leather straps and sturdy construction only underscore its beauty.

Shoes: Earthies Vista Leather Wedges in Alpaca The woven leather picks up on the handcrafting of the Pewter Sand Dollar Bag and these shoes go from the Mansion Tour to the shore. Comfortable yet pretty they remind me of a similar design by Diane Von Furstenberg this season.

Nightlife 
Really, this is what that special little black dress is for. You can dress it up or down. When you are traveling, you'll appreciate having it along because you will have worn it to the beach and now it's time to make dinner plans.

Necklace: Green Quartz from Club Monaco, 5th Ave. Bag by Betsy Johnson. Raynia Pumps by Earthies available at Nordstrom.com.

Your Evening Look

Lips
Here you need to go bold or go home! Classic RED lipstick adds a touch of elegance to your evening look so try a sheer moist orange-red like this one from Clinique in 06 Red Red Red. It is long lasting and enriched with olive fruit and aloe.

Add a bright, bold lip, lots of golden glow and some serious fragrance.

Skin
This dress shows a lot of skin so make it count.  Hard Candy's Glow All the Way in Tropical Tan is an instant bronze and gradual self tanner with 24 karat gold! You get a good 2.7 oz tube so go for it.

Fragrance
The evening won't be complete without applying a little perfume to your pulse points. As the nightlife heats up, it will continue to mix with your chemistry for a lasting scent. Lancome's Hypnose and Salvatore Ferragamo's F for Fascinating are two of my favorites.

Black Sequined Lip purse by Betsy Johnson

My Evening Makeup:

Kett FIXX Creme Foundation is waterproof and stays on all day without blotting or retouching.
Kett Hydro Foundation & Blush applied through an airbrush
Purely Cosmetics Diamond Perfect Finishing Powder (infused with pure diamonds!)
Lips: Clinique Long Last Lipstick in 06 Red Red Red
Eyes: Sephora Waterproof Liner in Navy Blue




Dress, shoes and Woven Handbag c/o Horny Toad, Earthies and NewportStyle.net respectively.

On the Go? Summer Travel Essentials

A trip to the beach or even abroad. Here are some carry on essentials for easy summer travel. Pewter Sand Dollar Woven Handbag by NewportStyle.net, the Newport Mansions Stores.

July is National Parks and Recreation Month - A DAY AT THE BEACH: I really enjoy packing up and taking off for a impromptu trip to the beach, park or anywhere fun during the hot summer. Since July is National Parks and Recreation Month, visiting local spots first is always a good idea. One thing I've learned is to keep a bag packed with a few essentials for each destination.  My beach tote contains Mission Sun Defeated Continuous Spray Sunblock SPF 50 & their Moisturizing Lip Treatment, (SPF 20) as well as Jergens Natural Glow-Protect for a little color + sun block. My sunhat is made of woven raffia and is by Helen Kaminski . It is a tough hat, made in Australia and does an amazing job of blocking the sun.

Transitional Outfit: Horny Toad Dizzie Dress & Earthies Shoes. Knit topper by Cotton On goes from the AC'd office to an early evening picnic date in the park.

Taking a Trip?
If you are doing more than just a day trip, consider keeping a Carry-On bag of your favorite comfort items. These will vary depending on if you are traveling by car, train or plane but they all should be kept close at hand. Here's a few things that I take along that take up less space and do double duty.

All of these items fit easily inside my GLC Guilden Carry All with room for clothes & a pair of shoes.

Packing for a trip should include essentials like these, especially if you are going on a long distance tour. I keep a little bottle of Visine-A for allergy flare ups that can occur when you change climates. Also to stay extra fresh when you might not be able to get to your hotel, take along some baby wipes or Fresh Bath moist towelettes. You can refresh your whole body in the rest room. Speaking of keeping fresh, Secret Clinical Strength is amazing. It will keep you dry and fresh smelling for more than 24 hours even in hot, sticky climates. A clear zippered pouch like this allows you to quickly find what you need while protecting your luggage from product spills.

Embryolisse Hydra Masque and Eye & Lip Contour Cream do double duty.

On the Plane
If you fly, you'll know how important it is to pack your handbag with everything you'll need so as not to have to access your on board luggage in the bin above your head. Here's a situation where you might want to go bigger with your handbag as it can also carry extra clothing and other needed items.

I've found this system to work very well and having essentials like hand cream can work wonders in combating dry cabin air.  

In the Hotel
Likewise Embryolisse Hydro-Masque is a wonderful treat for dried out skin. Pop it on in your hotel room for 15 minutes and you'll be ready for dinner looking plumped and refreshed. I also like their Eye & Lip Contour Cream as it comes in a pump bottle and is both an eye and lip cream. Double duty out of one pump saves space and time switching between products!

Smart Travel First Aid kit has medicines and supplies especially helpful for traveling.

First Aid for Travelers
I keep a Smart Travel from Adventure Medical Kits with me as it is small enough to fit my carry all yet holds A LOT of supplies. Everything from aspirin and anti-nausea medicine to bandages, ointments and other first aid products. I keep a little tube of Topricin Pain Cream in my kit because it can be used for a lot of things like insect bites, bruises and aches. The kit itself is complete though and sectioned into areas depending on the emergency. It also has a little graphic card with pictures to convey your needs in a different language if you are traveling abroad. Everything is well thought out and can help put your traveling mind at ease!


Smart Travel c/o Adventure Medical Kits

Stars & Stripes 4th of July Picnic Chic - Synergy, Horny Toad Organic Cottons

Stripes done right. Striped Tank Dress made of 100% Organic Cotton by Synergy, Santa Cruz, CA

Kick off the summer with a bit of picnic chic that is both comfortable and good for the environment (not to mention sexy)! I'm talking about organic cotton dresses which have come a long way from the beige burlap sacks I remember from years ago. Nowadays textures and hues go way beyond boring brown colorways.  Organic dresses are also expected to support an active, outdoorsy lifestyle many of us are taking to, so fit and ease of movement are going to be things to look for.

Synergy's Tank Panel Dress works on your bike (with shorts underneath)!

What I wear under it all. These Terry Liner Shorts turn anything into bikewear!

Synergy Clothing makes all their 100% organic cotton dresses right in Santa Cruz, CA and offer a fresh take on west coast design. You can take this dress from your Fourth of July Picnic and bike ride to dinner at the club afterwards. Very versatile, flattering diagonal cut with straps wide enough to cover underthings. This is a stretchy cotton dress so you may want to order a size down.

Synergy Tank Panel Dress in Navy/White from Terry Bicycle's Catalog

Lead Photo:
Straw Fedora Tinsley & Daphne Scarf by Pistil Designs
Tank Panel Dresses C/O Synergy Clothing of CA
Gladiator Stiletto Sandals by Mossimo of CA for Target

Horny Toad Dizziness!
First the stripes and now the stars. This organic cotton number by Horny Toad is one of my season favorites.  The Dizzie Dress shown here in Nectar offers soft cotton comfort with a bit of posh sundress flair - perfect from the beach to a dinner date. This is active-wear that just looks beautiful and fresh with an airy fit and two sweet pockets. Adjustable straps and a ruched back make for a perfect fit around the bust-line. Add a little cotton 3/4 sleeve topper for the evening's breezes and the fireworks you'll be (making) watching.

Organic Cotton Dizzie Dress in nectar by Horny Toad

Raffia Sun Hat by Helen Kaminski - Australia
Dizzie Dress C/O Horny Toad 
See my full Dizzie Dress Review on Lucky
3/4 Sleeve Topper by Cotton On
Vista Calf Leather Wedges in Alpaca Available at Nordstrom

HornyToad Dizzy Dress in Lapis

Skorting the Issue-Vesper Skort in Lapis by Horny Toad

Ready to ride, walk or run. Vesper Skort in Lapis by Horny Toad.

Summertime means getting out there and having fun...where ever you can find it. That may mean a hike through the woods with lunch afterwards at a little open air cafe.  It could also mean bicycling to a local spot for a picnic or day at the beach.  Where ever you go, I say, look cool and chic!

That's why I was so impressed with this super comfy, stretchy Tencel blend Vesper Skort by Horny Toad.  Here's the garment description from the HT website:

Vesper Skort
For those whose love of a good mini skirt equals their love of travel, play and movement, the Vesper Skort is like an answer to a prayer. Perfect for a game of Frisbee or tennis, a bike ride across town, a round of golf or even a heated Scrabble match, it can also be dressed up and taken out to dinner. Made of our favorite year-round knit blend of silky Tencel®, soft cotton, durable poly and supple spandex, the covered elastic waistband has an internal drawcord and internal shorts have a 3" inseam.

Secrets Under the Skort
I like that the shorts underneath are well constructed and have their own secret pocket in the front for cash, a credit card or energy gel. The fabric is SO soft and I like the way the waistband stays flat without rolling. The fabric does not wrinkle. We did not iron the skort, it was just taken from the bag and put on and as you can see, BOOM!  Easy care, ready to wear after you unpack it.

Bicycling, walking, running, the Vesper Skort's got you covered.

Run Don't Walk
Why limit yourself to spandex shorts on or off the trail or bicycle? There have been times (long in the past mind you), where I've gotten on my bicycle for a training ride but wanted to stop at the coffee shop or market along the way. Walking into a public space with skin tight shorts simply draws WAY too much attention.  With the Vesper Skort You can have all the freedom and comfort of shorts but look very stylish once you finish your workout.  Hey, you never know WHO you'll meet!

Taking along a helmet? GLC's Guilden Carry All can handle it!

So the next time you plan to head out for the usual run or bike ride around town, think about putting on an easy to wear skort like this. You'll definitely turn heads and in a GOOD way!

Vesper Skort in Lapis by Horny Toad. Bicycle Bags by Basil

 Vesper Skort C/O Horny Toad