Archive for July 2008

Jul 30 2008

Fashion Holiday

Mint Main - 1 year ago - Kathryn Lovell

“Vacation is what you take when you can no longer take what you’ve been taking.”
Earl Wilson, 1934 – 2005

It’s the time of year when you can’t help but think about vacations. You’ve either just returned or are just about to depart. Colleagues with key information for your project are suddenly unavailable. All the tourists swarming your city remind you that while you are working, others are playing. Whether you’re about to get away or wishing you were still away, it’s the perfect time for a vacation wardrobe you can wear at home.

Aruba, Jamaica…

Soft Surroundings Skirt We all know the tropics are overrun with enormous bugs, mold and all sorts of tropical diseases. And yet, in spite of that, ‘tropical vacation’ seems to be the epitome of relaxation. A long, full patterned skirt is all white sandy beaches and fruity drinks, with none of the humidity and stickiness.

Roman Holiday

Garnet Hill Crinkle Dress

There is something so decidedly civilized about lunch at a sidewalk café after visiting a museum or admiring architecture. A simple A-line dress keeps you looking refined and citified, while a crinkly fabric hides all those travel wrinkles.

Carrying On

Cole Haan Bowler Bag Camera? Map? Guide book? Or, file folders? Cell phone? Planner? The perfect travel/day bag is lightweight, roomy and chic with enough pockets to keep you organized. Top handles make it easier to tote on public transportation, while a shoulder strap makes it comfortable for airport security or morning coffee lines.

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Jul 16 2008

Style Necessities

Mint Main - 2 years ago - Kathryn Lovell

“Style is the image of character.”
Edward Gibbon, 1737 – 1794

One of the most common questions I hear as a stylist is “What are the three essentials/must haves for style?” For me, style is more than just pulling on dress or having a fancy bag. It’s not only what you wear, but also how you treat yourself and other people. The term lifestyle is bandied around fairly often, but we rarely think about the style part of it. Here are the three things I think are key to a stylish life.

Wardrobe Staple

Cashmere crew neckA cashmere sweater is indispensable in a wardrobe. You can drape it over your shoulders with jeans and a t-shirt, pair with a dressy skirt and heels for cocktail receptions and use it as a pillow on airplanes. Cashmere blended with wool or silk will pill less than 100% cashmere. If you run hot, look for tissue weight or single ply sweaters.

Everyday Rites

Posh Chicago Footed GlassI am a big believer in the power of aesthetics. Most of us are familiar with the joy of wearing a favorite pair of shoes or a stunning necklace, but don’t extend that to our daily rituals. Start your day with something beautiful by having your coffee or tea in a gorgeous cup. You’re more likely to drink those famed 8 glasses of water if the glass is a pleasure to use.

Kindly Noted

Crane Note Cards It’s always a delight to check your mail box and find a hand written note from friend, whether it’s a ‘thank you’ card or a ‘just thinking of you’ card. Make a habit of carrying note cards with you so when you have a few minutes (waiting for an oil change, doctor’s appointment, dining companions, etc.), you can return the favor.

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Jul 2 2008

Summer Sandals

Mint Main - 2 years ago - Kathryn Lovell

“I know I am but summer to your heart, and not the full four seasons of the year.”
Edna St. Vincent Millay, 1892 – 1950

Ahhh…the 4th of July. It’s all about BBQs and fireworks. Which, as clearly stated in my lease, are outdoor activities. I love the great outdoors, but they do present some shoe challenges. Especially if you’re going to be on grass. Or perhaps your summer travels will take you strolling down cobblestone streets. Maybe you prefer the urban experience of torn up sidewalks. Whatever you choose, they all wreck havoc on a pair of heels and can be tough on your tootsies. Fear not my dears! With a good pair sandals, you’ll be ready for whatever terrain your summer adventures present.

Embellished
Born Begonia Sandal Whether you’re sashaying to the pool, perusing a local market or savoring the moment, you’ll be doing with style and whimsy in an embellished thong. Look for a slight heel and heavily padded sole for maximum comfort.

Secured
Anabel Wedge Sandal Looking for something dressy, danceable and slip resistant? Ankle straps keep you secure, rubber soles keep you upright on slippery floors and a wedge heel keeps you from sinking into nature.

Pampered
Kenneth Cole Gentle Souls If I were to say to you ‘organic shoes’ you would probably respond with ‘orthopedic style.’ And up until recently, you’d be right. But all that is changing, including these wedges with memory flax seed pillows in the soles for comfort. Three cheers for progress!

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