SICKA THAN AVERAGE

Love Me Tender -- Valentine's Day Gifts Any Woman Will Desire

Valentine's Day doesn't have to be as senseless, befuddling, and tragically disappointing as the star-studded film by that name. If you're coupled up, take the initiative to make the day special — cook a romantic meal and wear those shoes that practically beckon him to carry you into the bedroom and ravish you; light scented candles and practice those masseuse skills while wearing your sultriest lingerie; or buy some champagne and set it next to a nice bubble bath. And, if you're exchanging gifts with your better half, feel free to subtly give him some hints about what you want (bookmark this page on his iPad if need be!).

As for all you single ladies on the prowl, February 14th is not a day for mourning, and you certainly don't need a man to feel loved so focus on pampering yourself: indulge in some truffles, snatch up that purse you've been coveting for months, go out with your friends and flirt your little heart out. 

Check out some of our Valentine's Day gift ideas — these are beyond alluring, so get ready for some sparks to fly! 

This is only the beginning of our V-Day coverage so stay tuned for more gift picks!

 

Edmundo Castillo Guia Heels in Scarlet, $995. Available at Match at the Breakers (One South County Road, Palm Beach, FL). Call 561.659.8402 for more details.

Betty Boop would wink her little heart out, work those shoulders, and utter her coquettish "Boop-boop-e-doop!" saying with unbridled glee if she thought she could cleverly manipulate a man to buy her these patent leather and snakeskin sandals. And can you blame her? The polka dot detail at the peep toe opening is enough to make any girl swoon, along with the slim stiletto heel. And those cutouts at the sides? A peep show at its best! 

 

 

Rachel Roy Cord Stone Friendship Bracelet, $36. Available at RachelRoy.com

Valentine's Day isn't just for lovers — it's also a day to celebrate your friends and loved ones, those who have been pals and confidantes (cue the "Golden Girls" theme song). Show them how much you appreciate them by gifting them with a Rachel Roy Cord Stone Friendship Bracelet like the one pictured here, which features an antiqued gold metal chain wrapped with bright pink thread and embellished with faceted, round, flat-top purple stones positioned atop square gold stations.

 

 

 

Vera Wang Lovestruck EDP Spray, $68 for 1.7 oz. and $78 for 3.4 oz. Available at Sephora.com

The bottle of Vera Wang's Lovestruck fragrance is enough to give a girl butterflies — from the hot pink lettering used to write the word "Lovestruck" and the arrow piercing through the word to the bouquet of plum tulips and the netted tulle and metallic ribbon nestled underneath the floral shapes. But that's just the visual charm of this romantic scent, Vera Wang's ode to being hopelessly, blissfully, rapturously in love. With succulent pink guava and a zesty touch of mandarin leading to a bouquet of bewitching tuberose and soft, dewy lotus blossoms, this scent is more crush-worthy to us than Jordan Catalano was to Angela Chase. 

 

Carelle Rose de France Iolite, Diamond and Rose Gold Pear Cluster Ring, $4050. Available at Carelle.com

Three pear-shaped, lilac-colored iolite stones, with their surface completely covered with diamond-shaped facets, are grouped together to create a near-triangular shape reminiscent of daylilies. A round, darker purple, prong-set faceted stone is positioned at the center, resembling the flower's stigma. Three small diamonds with a total weight of 0.12 cts complete the design, accentuating the triangular form of this design. 

 

 

 

 

 

Pull-In Libération Corb Dentelle Bra, $59.99, and Libération Tanga Dentelle, $54.99. Available at Store.Pull-In.com

Any woman will feel like the mistress of a Parisian boudoir with these intimates from French brand Pull-In. The Libération collection manages to maintain the perfect balance between seduction and sophistication thanks to the careful craftsmanship, the usage of elegant Calais lace, and the choice of midnight blue lace juxtaposed against an ox blood red satin trim.

 

 

 

 

Godiva Gems Milk and Dark Chocolate Message Truffles, $20 for 32 pc. bag. Available at Godiva.com

Members of the French royal court may have feasted on bon-bons in the 17th century, but contemporary Queen Bees look to Godiva to satisfy their chocolate cravings. For Valentine's Day, Godiva has packaged its truffles in pink and red foil with messages like "Be Mine," "Kiss Me," and "Hug Me" printed on these wrapping papers and pops of gold along the twistable ends. The truffles are color coded so that the milk chocolate pieces are inside pink wrappers and the dark chocolate ones in red wrappers. As for the truffles, each one is a tiny slice of heaven and, when you bite into the cream chocolate exterior, it's like going through the pearly gates as you taste the creamy interior, otherwise known as true paradise.

 

 

Katrina Kelly Vintage Vine Earrings, $11,748. For a full list of retailers, visit KatrinaKellyJewelry.com

These gorgeous earrings feature a sculpted, radiating, pattern along their teardrop-shaped, 18k yellow gold frame, with rounded edges meant to resemble the movement of undulating vines. At the center of each earring, you'll find a teardrop-shaped, faceted ruby stone, accentuated by gold bead detailing along its perimeter. A tiny slither of space is left vacant along the interior of the earrings' frame, so as to make the design a bit airier and more ethereal. Diamond-shaped earrings posts with concentric bead detailing, meanwhile, complete the dramatic effect. 

 

 

 

Topshop Flower Twist Front Blouse, $64. Available at Topshop.com

Don't want to wait for that special someone to bring you flowers? Then swathe yourself in gorgeous blooms with this sleeveless blouse from Topshop, which features a zippered back, a demure rounded neckline, a center seam along the front panel, and a mottle twist detail at the waistline creating a slightly draped effect. 

 

 

 

Narciso Rodriguez For Her Eau de Toilette Délicate, $102. Available at Saks Fifth Avenue and Saks.com

When creating the latest iteration of his spectacular For Her fragrance, designer Narciso Roriguez revisited his original source of inspiration: a woman's innate grace and beauty. For this limited-edition version of the scent, Rodriguez sought to explore the more mysterious, elusive elements of femininity, resulting in a wistful, feather light fragrance that, when applied to the skin, almost makes a woman feel like she's radiating sensuality. Like the original For Her, Délicate features a musky heart, but fig notes replace the osmanthus notes in its predecessor's formula, yielding a more ethereal and mysterious composition.

 

 

 

 

The Macbeth Collection Petite Vase, $35. Available at TheMacbethCollection.com

Before breaking out the bubbly on Valentine's Day, chill it in a bucket-like vase from The Macbeth Collection. The Petite Vase (pictured here) measures 8.5" in height and 5" in width and features two welded handles along the sides for easy toting. You can pick from over 50 designs (ranging from houndstooth and polka dot prints to floral prints, ikat designs, nautical motifs, and more) and even monogram your vase to make it feel all the more personal.

 

 

 

 

Gas Bijoux for Swarovski Crystallized Love Earrings, $90. Available at Swarovski-Crystallized.com 

Double your fun with these gold-plated earring by Gas Bijoux, which feature Swarovski Elements details. The 0.25mm-long earrings are composed of two heart shapes, each featuring etched grooves for added texture and dimension. The top heart shape is slightly smaller and features another heart detail at its center, with a smooth golden surface and a single Swarovski Elements crystal placed slightly off-center. The bottom heart shape, meanwhile, features a cluster of clear stones at its center to create a playful posey-like form, along with five crystals at the bottom tip of the heart shape, in an arrow-like shape. Etched floral motifs adorn the bottom border of the heart's surface for a Renaissance-inspired feel.

 

 

 

Shea Terra Organics Premium Dark Chocolate Sugar-Stone Exfoliating Cream, $22. Available at SheaTerraOrganics.com

If you dream of rolling around in chocolate, like a strawberry being dipped in hot fondue, you'll love the Shea Terra Organics Premium Dark Chocolate Sugar-Stone Exfoliating Cream, which smells like homemade brownie mix (when it's perfectly mixed and smells so delicious you can't help but lick the spoon) thanks to the organic chocolate liquor and vanilla extract used to scent the product. Since it's rich in antioxidants, the dark chocolate in the formula also fortifies your skin, helping to make skin appear more luminous and supple, while organic shea butter softens and conditions. Organic sugar particles and volcanic stone polish off dead skin layers to reveal younger-looking skin without feeling abrasive or harsh (thanks in large part to the shea butter, which melts onto the skin and creates a protective layer of sorts).

 

 

 

Tsumori Chisato Shooting Hearts Dress, $468. Available at LaGarconne.com

Tired of following Katy Perry's advice to be a firework? Then aim to be a shooting star instead with this perky frock by Tsumori Chisato. Made in Japan, the rayon and silk dress features short flutter sleeves, a gathered waistline with drawstrings at the sides, and a rounded neckline with a front keyhole opening. The relaxed fit and light ruching add an easiness and a bit of edge to the adorable heart and stars print.

 

Banana Republic Enameled Geo Bangle, $35. Available at BananaRepublic.com

Simple yet chic, this silver-plated bangle features slanted sides that create a Mod era-esque effect while the punchy honeysuckle pink enamel filling the bangle nods to the colors of the Swinging Sixties. 

 

 

Free Endearment Dana Rose Clutch, $375. Available at FreeEndearment.com

Embrace the spirit of Valentine's Day with this blush pink Dana clutch from Free Endearment, which features laser-cut heart details, along with a mosaic-like design of jasmine-like flowers and leaf-like shapes that read like a vine in an enchanted forest. This envelope-shaped clutch features an elongated tab that slips through an upward-facing bracket-like slot. A dainty chain link strap features a leather strip along its center to soften the metallic bits and make wear more comfortable.

 

 

 

LUSH Lots of Love Wrapped Gift, $49.95. Available at LUSHusa.com

What woman can't appreciate a hatbox filled to the brim with sensual bath and body treats? This particular box, however, is covered with a romantic design: a tree with red and pink hearts in lieu of leaves and lovebirds perching atop some of its branches. Though LUSH is offering customers a broad array of Valentine's Day-themed gift options, we're particularly smitten with this set, which includes the following items: Rose Queen Bath Bomb, Sex Bomb Bath Bomb, A French Kiss Bubble Bar, 1000 Kisses Deep Perfume, Ro's Argan Body Conditioner, and Lust Soap.

Shaped like a scoop of strawberry ice cream, the Rose Queen Bath Bomb is ideal for a long and relaxing soak since, not only does it contain fragrant rose absolute, but it's packed with rose petals that unravel as the sphere dissolves in the water. The Sex Bomb Bath Bomb, meanwhile, will bring out any gal's friskier side with a blend of jasmine oil, a known aphrodisiac, and ylang-ylang oil, clary sage, oil and softening soy milk. After a soak, you can pat yourself dry and feed your skin with some of the Ro's Argan Body Conditioner, which features argan oil, shea butter, sweet almond oil, cocoa butter, cupuacu butter, Brazil nut oil, geranium oil, and rose absolute to hydrate skin, seal moisture within the epidermis, stimulate collagen and elastin production, strengthen the skin's natural barrier, and smooth and soften skin.

These three products alone will make any woman feel pampered, but of course: more treats are included. If you want to share an intimate moment with your beloved, reach for the lavender-scented A French Kiss Bubble Bar, which is shaped like a lemon meringue (or a Hershey's kiss, if you will) and dissolves in the water to yield a frothy, sudsy bath that's big enough for two!

 

Hugo Guinness for Coach Collection -- A Reverie with Dancing Coffee Cups, Key Rings, and Handcuffs

 

 

 

The inky, minimalist, black-and-white drawings and linoleum-cut prints by Brooklyn-based British artist Hugo Guinness often focus on inanimate objects — from garden chairs to vintage typewriters, oven mitts, architectural columns, double-decker buses, binoculars, faucets, urinals, kitchen ovens, and tractors — thereby transforming mundane miscellany into transcendental, muse status-worthy fodder, an Andy Warholian approach to creating art but minus the pomp and flash that accompanied the latter's productions. Rather than obsessing over perfectly symmetrical forms, realistic proportions and shading subtleties, Guinness seems to sketch with the impatience of an excitable 7-year-old, but it's precisely those imprecisions and imperfections that make his work so endearing, so whimsical. 

Now, you can add a hint of this playful spirit into your choice of accessories with the debut of the limite-edition Hugo Guinness for Coach, an array of handbags, wallets, and other leather goods featuring hand-cut linoleum prints designed by Guinness. 

Handbag lovers will gravitate toward the Hugo Guinness for Coach Reversible Totes ($398 each at Coach.com), available in three different designs: Coffee Cup, Boxer, and Handcuffs. Each tote is reversible, so that one side features smooth vachetta leather, while the other is made of cotton canvas and features a unique Guinness design. When you're looking for a city chic look, then, you can display the funky canvas exterior while, when you're headed to a business meeting, you can turn the purse inside out to show the prim leather side.

The Hugo Guinness for Coach Coffee Cup Reversible Tote, for instance, features a black cotton canvas exterior with a white illustration of a New York City diner coffee cup and Guinness' HG signature and date (as shown above at top). If you turn the purse inside out, however, the canvas design will then become the lining of an almond-colored vachetta leather purse with the HG limited-edition logo at top. These totes measure 13 1/4" in length, 15 3/4" in height, and 3 3/4" in width, making them roomy enough alternatives for even my fellow bag ladies. Similarly, the Hugo Guinness for Coach Boxer Reversible Tote features a black leather shoulder strap, one side covered in black leather (tucked inside the bag in the photo above), and a white cotton canvas side (shown along the exterior in the above photo) with an original Guinness linoleum print of a shrieking boxer, his hands at his sides, and his gloves practically touching his breathable shorts, the band of his shorts featuring the letters "GRRH" perhaps to signal frustration or pain. Last, there's the Hugo Guinness for Coach Handcuff Reversible Tote, which features a black leather side, a black leather shoulder strap, and a black canvas side with a linoleum print of a set of handcuffs in white. 

One of the smartest, cheekiest offerings in the collection is the Hugo Guinness for Coach Sunglass Case ($148 at Coach.com), which features an original, hand-cut linoleum print of a pair of Ray-Bans emblazoned atop a naturally tanned vachetta leather case with tonal stitching, a snap closure, and microfleece lining to ensure your shades' lenses remain smudge-free and unscratched. 

If you carry around more keys than a superintendent and train inspector combined, you'll find the Hugo Guinness for Coach Keys Zip Top Keycase ($118 at Coach.com) an ideal choice. The pouch-like vachetta leather case features a zip-top closure and a leather strap with a keyring. Adorned with a linoleum print of a set of keys fanning out from the ring to which they're attached, forming a circular shape, the case will allow you to keep all those lock-turning essentials organized and still leave you room to tuck in some loose bills, an ID, and perhaps a lip gloss tube. The key case measures 3 1/4" in length and 5 " in height.  

The simplest piece in the collection is the Hugo Guinness for Coach Coffee Cup Key Ring ($68 at Coach.com), which features Guinness' iconic coffee cup print atop a vachetta leather cut-out. This detail is, of course, attached to a short silver-toned chain with both a lobster claw clasp and a split key ring.

The collection also includes men's wallets, an iPad case, and other knickknacks, so make sure to check them all out!

The Many Dannijo Necklaces Worn by Angela Lindvall on "Project Runway All-Stars"

 

 

 

 

 

Lifetime threw us quite a few curve balls while shooting Project Runway All-Stars — first, casting the leggy blond supermodel Angela Lindvall as host in lieu of Heidi Klum, a smart move since the two are practically interchangeable in terms of physical appearance; benching judges Nina García and Michael Kors, with whom many viewers had grown frustrated (particularly after they chose Gretchen to win over Mondo in Season 8 and since Kors stopped doling out his side-splitting zingers during critiques), and swapping them with Marchesa co-founder and designer Georgina Chapman and Isaac Mizrahi (the former an enormous coup); and giving the ever-nurturing Tim Gunn a breather, inviting Marie Claire Editor-in-Chief Joanna Coles to function as the designers' mentor and the workroom mother hen (an unwise move given Coles' unapproachable, standoffish demeanor, which makes her feel as warm and motherly as an iceberg). Ch-ch-ch-changes indeed. Then again, given that they brought back some of the most talented, comical, and memorable characters of previous seasons, the potential ratings success of All-Stars was never in question.

Thus far, Project Runway All-Stars has managed to reignite our passion for a TV franchise that was quickly losing its luster, reminding us of why we tuned into the show in the first place. And, aside from a Muppets-themed challenge that felt redundant and passé, the feats posed to the contestants have been a healthy mixture of new design tests and of recycled but reinvented prior challenges.

We've been tuning in religiously and, of course, scrutinizing every pleat, seam, and drape. But we've also been studying what Angela Lindvall has donned on camera. And, since the very first episode, we noticed her appreciation (or her stylist's appreciation) for Dannijo jewelry.

Since I've loved Dannijo assiduously since I first discovered the New York-based brand, I've been quick to recognize the pieces gracing Lindvall's neck, so I'll break down the main three featured thus far.

In the first episode, when Lindvall introduced herself to the Project Runway alumni, she was wearing the Dannijo Zsa Zsa necklace pictured above at top ($995 at Dannijo.com), a 16"-long necklace with diamond-cut triple links and H-shaped chain links along the collar area and, at the center, three medallion-shaped, oxidized brass plate stations with pink, tangerine, and emerald green Swarovski Elements crystals in rectangular, teardrop, and square shapes at their center. Oxidized brass snake chain strands encircle these crystals, rimming the periphery of each circular plate, completing the rocker-worthy effect.

Minutes later, when Lindvall announced the 99 Cent Store challenge, she again wore a Dannijo piece — this time, a multi-tiered bib necklace like the Soraya necklace ($495 at Dannijo.com) pictured above, second from top. Though Lindvall's version incorporated some chartreuse green stones, the silhouette was identical to that of the Soraya (which probably means hers was custom made). This statement-making necklace features five rows of oxidized, silver-plated round links with sparkling spherical beads positioned at the center of each link and, dangling from the bottom row, bulbous teardrop-shaped and smooth, horn-shaped beads and stones.

After hitting us with the Dannijo 1-2 punch during the season's premiere, Lindvall seemed to steer away from the New York-based jewelry brand — and then, in Episode 4, she again turned to Dannijo to spruce up the red dress she donned during the runway show. Before the designers showcased their gelato-inspired frocks, then, Lindvall graced the catwalk wearing the Dannijo Cota Necklace ($795 at Dannijo.com), a tribal-flavored, three-level silver necklace juxtaposes crescent moon, triangle, diamond, trapezoid, cylindrical, and circular shapes and which features faceted fuchsia and orange Swarovski crystals, along with turquoise and white cabochon stones. U-shaped shackles jut out of the top station with its three conjoined cylindrical tubes, along with the crescent moon-shaped center station. The necklace's pendants yield a total drop of 7", making this a bold chest piece.

We might not know who'll be going home this week but, at the very least, we can predict Dannijo will endure until the very end, adding some razzle-dazzle to Lindvall's ensembles.

 

 

Karl Lagerfeld Designs Label for Limited-Edition Grand Cru Classé Bottle from Chanel Winery Château Rauzan-Ségla

 

  

 

Forget "The Bachelor" Ben Flajnik's wimpy winery in Sonoma! The best vinos hail from France — whether it's the Burgundy, Rhône, Alsace, Bordeaux, Champagne or Languedoc regions. The land that cradled couture icon Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel has also produced some of the most robust, flavorful, juicy grapes — which, in turn, have revolutionized the cuisine arena and pleased gourmands the world over. As someone with an appreciation for the finest things in life, then, Coco Chanel would have been pleased to know that, as part of her legacy, the Chanel corporation purchases its own vineyard in the late 20th century: the Château Rauzan-Ségla. 

The 130-acre vineyard, located in the Margaux section of Bordeaux, was part of an expansive estate owned by Pierre de Mesures de Rauzan since 1662. In 1994, Chanel acquired the celebrated vineyard, best known for its Cabernet Sauvignons and Merlots, and helped to elevate every single element of these wines' constitutions — from its inviting bouquet to its full-bodied structure, velvety texture, comforting warmth, and delightful finish.

To celebrate its 350th anniversary, Château Rauzan-Ségla is poised to unveil a new 2009 vintage edition of its Grand Cru Classé. Hitting fine wine retailers in March, the Grand Cru Classé comes in a collectible bottle bearing a label illustrated by Karl Lagerfeld, longtime creative director of the Chanel fashion house. To celebrate these landmarks, Lagerfeld offered his own rendition of the château itself which, with the help of New York-based architect Peter Marino was restored to its former glory, also paying special attention to the well-manicured grounds and the palatial courtyard, detailing everything from the tiled rooftop to the arched walkway, and the landscaping arrangement, with its potted shrubs, lavender flower beds, and the white frangipani blossoms positioned in between the façade's windows.

 The Château Rauzan-Ségla Grand Cru Classé will retail for $129 and is available for pre-order right now!   

 

 

Top 10 Red Carpet Looks At The 2012 SAG Awards

Though the 2012 Screen Actors Guild Awards were largely a snooze fest, the re carpet was surprisingly entertaining, with many a starlet pushing the boundaries and eschewing standard award ceremony fare for more modern, avant-garde looks or playful, vintage-inspired fare. Below, you'll find the 10 looks that we thought lit up our screens!

 

1. EMMA STONE

The Help's Emma Stone channeled the 1950s thanks to the voluminous quality and mid-calf length of the skirt on her black Alexander McQueen frock. The strapless cut, however, modernized the frock, while still maintaining its coquettish quality via the scalloped lacework at the bustline. The perfectly fitted, corset-like shape of the bodice, meanwhile, added a hint of sexiness. And, while both her ankle-strapped peep-toe sandals and minaudiere boasted ruffle accents, the matching details worked to create a sense of unison in the ensemble, instead of making it look overly done and calculated. 

 

 

2. SOFIA VERGARA

Modern Family's Sofia Vergara knows how to work those jewel tones, as evidenced by her crowd-pleasing, sapphire-colored Golden Globes gown, and she once again looked like the gem of the ball in a bright pink, strapless mermaid tail dress from Marchesa. Perfectly fitted along the waist and thighs, the skirt slunk down to the floor ever so fluidly, balancing out the ornate pleats along the bodice. A wide amethyst cuff and drop earrings from Lorraine Schwartz completed the ensemble.

 

3. MICHELLE WILLIAMS

After an uncharacteristic fashion faux-pas at the Golden Globes, My Week With Marilyn actress Michelle Williams quickly recoiled at the SAG Awards, hitting the red carpet in a romantic scarlet-colored Valentino gown. At its heart, the gown was an asymmetrical number with a single twisted shoulder strap, careful pin-tucked details al the waist and an undulating asymmetrical hemline, but it was softened and made way more demure by the addition of red lace to create a pretty rounded neckline and dainty cap sleeves.

 

4. ZOE SALDANA

She may have played an assassin in Colombiana, but Dominican actress Zoe Saldana looked killer last night in a semi-sheer, white Givenchy Haute Couture dress with glimmering silver stripes and chunky crystals encrusted along the openings of the oversize, elbow-length sleeves, at the rounded neckline, and along the rosette-like details adorning the drop waist. From its celestial color to its fluid silhouette, this dress made Saldana look heaven sent.

5. ROSE BYRNE

Though she plays a shrewd lawyer on Damages, actress Rose Byrne's style choices tend to fall on the conventional and classic side. Which is, of course, why her risk-taking ensemble at the SAG awards proved all the more thrilling. Channeling the 1970s, Byrne hit the red carpet in a beaded Elie Saab jumpsuit with center pleats along the pants and a cross-over style at the bodice. To complete the Scarface-inspired look, John Frieda's Harry Josh gave Byrne a slick chin-length bob and bangs that would make Anna Wintour green with envy.

New Noir Jewelry x Tokidoki x Barbie Collection -- With Imagination, Life Is Your Creation

 

Pyramid studs, enamel-plated pendants, conical spikes, clustered cubic zirconia stones, and neon-colored rope cords abound in most Noir Jewelry collections, all envisioned by New York-based fashion-stylist-turned-jewelry-designer Leeora Catalan. Despite the brand's name, then, Noir Jewelry's assertive, attention-commanding designs are anything but blacklisted, popping up in ever stylish gals must-have list. And, as if Noir's original pieces weren't desirable enough, the brand has also collaborated with such companies as DC Comics, Barbie, and Disney, resulting in special collections that capture the spirit of such pop culture fare as Batman, the Muppets, Catwoman, Supergirl, and Pirates of the Caribbean.  

Last spring, those dreaming of pink convertibles, genuine Kens, and dream houses swooned over the Noir for Barbie collection, which featured metal pyramid bracelets in a magenta color, necklaces with gold tone purse, hand mirror, and strappy sandal charms, and even a ring with a Barbie dream house positioned atop the band.

Now, Noir has unveiled the brand new Noir x Barbie x Tokidoki collection, available at Karmaloop.com. Given the involvement of Tokidoki in this particular collection, the pieces featured exude an even greater sense of whimsy — after all, this is the company that birthed such lovable characters as Mozzarella, a rifle-toting cow that extorts milk from schoolyard bullies but protects all well-behaved children; Sandy, a girl who dons a prickly cactus suit to function as armor, protecting her from the dangers of the world.

The Noir x Tokidoki x Barbie collection, then, includes visual references to the Barbie universe (plenty of pink, blond dolls in coquettish frocks, and hearts galore), while also integrating the cartoonish aesthetic and urban undertones of the Tokidoki world.

The pink "B" letter at the beginning of the "Barbie" logo, with its cursive-style swooping lines, appears etched in the gold tone hearts of the Noir x Tokidoki x Barbie Cross Bone Drop Earrings ($58 at Karmaloop.com). These heart-shaped charms are positioned directly beneath the faceted, conical cubic zirconia ear posts. These etched hearts take the place of skulls in the skull-and-crossbones iconography, so that overlapping gunmetal strips shaped like bones are located directly beneath these hearts. Lastly, golden conical spikes dangle beneath the crossbones, constituting the last element in the earrings' linear drop. The skull-and-crossbones reference, the incorporation of gunmetal, and the conical spikes all yield a tougher vibe than you'd expect from traditional Barbie fare, but the incorporation of hearts and pops of pink enamel add the requisite femininity.

Similarly, the Noir x Tokidoki x Barbie Open Ring ($50 at Karmaloop.com) has the exact same shape as the floating rings we see on the fingers of rock and pop icons like Rihanna, but instead of studs, spikes, or faceted stones on each side of the open ring, you'll find a star shape on one end and a heart shape on the other. Filled with white enamel, the heart shape again features the "B" logo, while the star shape on the other side of the open ring features the heart and crossbones motif affiliated with Tokidoki etched in black enamel.

Those who think the Malibu Dream House is the pinnacle of artistry will appreciate such pieces as the Noir x Tokidoki x Barbie Airplane Ring ($72 at Karmaloop.com). This ring features a simple golden band and a slanted bar welded to its top surface, with a pink-and-white enamel airplane detail positioned near the top of the conical shape. Reminiscent of the Barbie Glam Vacation Jet, this airplane detail inverts the jet's color scheme, so that the plane's exterior is mainly white with pops of honeysuckle pink along the bottom surface, and the Barbie logo and Tokidoki logo etched on either side of the tail. Conical golden spikes protrude out of the aircraft engines and aqua blue enamel details denote the windows on the sides of the jet.

Another darling design for true Barbie-loving belles: the Noir x Tokidoki x Barbie Girly Necklace ($92 at Karmaloop.com), which features a 30"-long gold metal chain and a miniature figurine of a child-like Barbie with her blond hair in a high ponytail, her blue eyes detailed in enamel against the mirrored gold of her visage and body, her hands tucked inside white gloves, her figure in a pink enamel A-line dress, and her feet in white booties.

The "Life is plastic, it's fantastic" philosophy couldn't ring any truer here — even if most of the pieces were made of gold-tone metal with hints of enamel.

 

Rachel Roy "Kindness Is Always Fashionable" Ghana Clutch

The late Lancashire-born historical fiction writer Amelia E. Barr, author of Remember The Alamo, once penned the phrase, "Kindness is always fashionable." This philosophy has been adopted by New York-based fashion designer Rachel Roy, who launched a charitable platform by the same name, creating limited-edition pieces to raise funds for such non-profit organizations as: charity: water, which brings clean drinking water to developing nations; Heart of Haiti, a program launched through Macy's that enlists artisans and designers from Haiti to create jewelry pieces using recycled materials, offering them a vehicle through which to sell their wares and earn fair living wages; and, most recently, OrphanAid Africa, which helps families stay together by, not only caring for children in need, but also providing assistance to their parents in the form of job training, food supplies, medical care, treatment for HIV-positive mothers, counseling, and other such efforts. One hundred percent of the net profits from the sale of the Rachel Roy "Kindness Is Always Fashionable" Ghana Clutch ($49 at RachelRoy.com and Bloomingdales.com), then, will benefit OrphanAid Africa.  

Measuring 23 1/2" in width, 14 1/2" in height, and 2" in depth, the Rachel Roy "Kindness Is Always Fashionable" Ghana Clutch is made of woven cotton/linen and features an abstract print on one side and the quote "Kindness is Always Fashionable" on the other side, with watercolor-esque, brush-like strokes of yellow and green behind these words. Printed in bold black letters, this phrase is positioned directly beneath a pattern composed of stitched rectangular shapes arranged in neat rows, with each section of green bars followed by a section of purple bars, pops of black color adding a tribal flair to the piece. The same exact geometric pattern, including the strip of trapezoid shapes in between the rows of rectangles, repeats on the opposite side. Since the linen fabric along the top of the bag is dyed with a mixture of red, yellow, and purple pigments recalling a desert sunset, the geometric shapes don't look as severe as they might otherwise.

A metal frame with a top clasp closure painted in black complete the simple design of the envelope-shaped clutch. Simple hinges on the sides of the clutch make the piece slightly roomier, and the interior features a slip pocket with the words "For my kids in Ghana" printed underneath its opening, right next to Roy's signature.

Help Roy offer her kids in Ghana more than a dedication — allow her to grant them the gift of hope. 

A Cross You'll Want To Bear -- Discover Mark Cross Handbags

 

 

 

 

When you carry a Mark Cross handbag, you might feel like you're enjoying a Midnight in Paris experience — after all, alongside his wife Sara, Gerald Murphy, president of the company from 1934 to 1964, hobnobbed with The Great Gatsby author F. Scott Fitzgerald and his wife Zelda Fitzgerald, poet Dorothy Parker, and Nobel Prize-winning author Ernest Hemingway. F. Scott Fitzgerald even dedicated his novel Tender Is the Night to Gerald and Sara Murphy. Though the Mark Cross Company was founded in 1845 and its origins had distinctly equestrian overtones, it wasn't until the mid to late 1930s that the brand's fine, sophisticated, carefully crafted handbags were embraced by Hollywood's elite, the literary and musical masterminds of the era, and the fashion zealots influenced by Parisian designers' sensibilities. At its height, Mark Cross enjoyed exposure on the silver screen, with its luggage prominently featured in Alfred Hichcock's 1954 thriller Rear Window.

Though Mark Cross closed in 1997, following the deaths of both Gerald and Sara Murphy, the company was resurrected in 2010 and is now readying its reintroduction, debuting exclusively at Barney's as of January 30th.

Rather than deviate from the company's storied heritage, the Mark Cross Collection I features pieces inspired by its vintage archives, modified ever so slightly so as to not appear dated or costume-like — all produced in the very same factories as the original designs. Made of Italian leather, these classic handbags come in neutral shades like taupe, honey, cuoio, and nude, as well as a dusty pavone blue, a timeless black, and a classic red, their price tags ranging from $1495 to $2350.

Standouts include the Grace Small Box Trunk and Grace Large Box Trunk, priced at $1695 and $1995 respectively, both inspired by the overnight case famously Grace Kelly carried in Rear Window.  Made of Italian calf leather, the box-shaped handbag looks as if it features a removable top lid but in fact, it's meant to be carried on the side, with the brass lock closure facing upward. Once the lock is unclasped, the bag opens sideways, facilitated by its hinged frame, which fans open like an accordion. The bag's interior is lined with red lambskin and features a roomy zippered pocket. A sturdy top handle and detachable shoulder strap complete the effect. Available in either beige or black, the Grace Large Box Trunk measures 8.5" in length, 6.5" in width, and 4.5" in height, while the Grace Small Box Trunk measures 7.5" in length, 5.5" in width, and 3.5" in height.

You can practically picture Gossip Girl character Blair Waldorf traipsing through Paris in a beret, wearing a chic sundress while carrying a Grace Small Box Trunk — after all, she's been aspiring to be the next Grace Kelly since the age of 18.

The Scottie handbag (pictured above, third and fourth from top) and the Marina clutch (pictured last above) were also modeled after vintage designs.

Made of Italian vegetable tanned leather, the Mark Cross Scottie Small Flap Satchel ($1950 at MarkCross1845.com) measures 11.5" in length, 3.5" in width, and 8" in height, and features a retro top handle, a trapezoid-shaped top flap with tonal stitching, a  brass lock closure, and a detachable shoulder strap. 

Art Deco sensibilities inform the design of the Marina Evening Clutch ($1495 at MarkCross1845.com), an envelope-shaped bag with rounded sides crafted out of supple black Italian calf leather. Measuring 11" in length, 1.5" in width, and 6" in height, the clutch features a rectangular top flap adorned with a slim rectangular, golden brass bar trim at its edge. This golden bar is then filled with black enamel for a touch of red carpet-worthy glamour. 

 For more details, visit MarkCross1845.com and BarneysNY.com.

Tracking Down the Jewelry Seen in "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo"

 

 

 

By now, you're probably rather familiar with the movie poster of The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo in which Rooney Mara appears topless, the film's release date printed in bold numbers to cover (albeit incompletely) the pierced nipples that, if fully exposed, would cause a major uproar among "family values" crusaders. If you look closely at Rooney Mara's hand, the one clutching Daniel Craig's arm, which is itself slung over her chest protectively, you'll notice Mara is wearing several rings in her character's signature goth style. In her role as Lisbeth Salander, Mara sports these very same rings throughout the film, complementing her razor blade pendant necklace, lip ring, nose ring, and the black spiral earrings dangling from her lobes.

Well, I set out to investigate who designed the jewelry seen in the film and, as it turns out, one of my favorite jewelry designers, Jules Kim, is the lady behind the rings Lisbeth Salander rocked while executing her stealth cyber operations, solving a decades-old crime, and exacting revenge on a merciless rapist. Kim's Bijules line is centered on many of the same principles that we associate with the character of Lisbeth Salander. Her pieces all have an air of unapologetic confidence, a dark beauty that will frighten some and fascinate others, and a slightly lethal quality that makes them feel treacherous yet titillating. It's only fitting, then, that two of her most in-your-face pieces would wind up gracing Mara's fingers for her role as Salander: the Bijules Bony Knuckle Ring ($264 at BijulesNYC.com), meant to be positioned atop the knuckle and featuring two pieces of metal shaped to resemble femurs and curved into a two-tier design; and the Bijules Mini Curved Bar Ring ($238 at BijulesNYC.com), a slightly rounded version of the Bar Ring that Kim considers the staple of the Bijules line, with a gleaming top bar that can cover up to three fingers. 

Salander's tribal-flavored earrings, meanwhile, were designed by Tawapa, an organic jewelry brand that specializes in pieces made of organic materials ranging from coconut shells and exotic woods to post-consumer water buffalo horn and fossilized ivory. Though many of the brand's earring designs mimic those seen in the film, the Horn Night Shade earrings (starting at $41.25 at Tawapa.com) are the closest approximation, with their spiraling shape and the small hook-like details along each curve of the glossy black buffalo horn.

So there you have it, folks! If you're feeling like rocking a subversive look these days, you now have the right weaponry to do so.

Cop A Pair of White + Warren Fingerless Gloves And Receive A Complimentary Sally Hansen Manicure Set

 

 

 

I have an affinity for fingerless gloves — whether they're leather ones with zippers, studs, and buckles; wool pieces with ribbed wrist bands and frayed edges at the fingertips; warm and fuzzy thanks to their angora fabrication; or simple, understated, and refined cashmere gloves. My penchant for fingerless gloves could be the result of my urban surroundings and the fact that, like most self-starters living in the digital age, I'm always tapping on the keypad of my mobile phone so I can promptly respond to e-mails, check the news, and connect with readers and fans via Twitter (follow me at @sickathanavg). And, while some companies have released touchscreen gloves, these are generally lacking in terms of their style quotient. For now, then, I'll stick with my fingerless gloves, which have the added benefit of infusing a youthful, punk-like edge to any ensemble

If you share my sentiment in regards to fingerless gloves, then you'll appreciate the new collaboration between luxury cashmere brand White + Warren and beauty giant Sally Hansen. For a limited time, when you purchase a pair of White + Warren Fingerless Gloves online (down to $40 from $95 at WhiteandWarren.com), you'll get a complimentary Sally Hansen Manicure Set so that you can keep cuticles smooth, hands soft and silky, nails perfectly shaped, and coated in a classic color.

The Sally Hansen Manicure Kit (pictured above) includes the following products: a Sally Hansen Hard As Nails Coarse Nail Board (which retails for $2.67 at Drugstore.com); a bottle of Nailgrowth Miracle Serum ($9.15 at Drugstore.com and other food and drug retailers), a strengthening peptide serum treatment designed for daily use and fortified with biotin, a B-complex vitamin that fortifies thin and brittle nails, as well as lemon peel oil, a common ingredient for conditioning cuticles and nails; a bottle of Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure polish in Right Said Red ($7 at mass food and drug retailers, including Drugstore.com), a classic Minnie Mouse-worthy red lacquer that's amazingly shiny, long-wearing, and chip resistant; and a tube of Sally Hansen Dry Chapped Hand Creme ($5.50 at Drugstore.com), a new lotion that moisturizes hands and provides some relief for those with chapped or cracked skin, brittle nails and rough cuticles thanks to the incorporation of softening, conditioning shea butter; safflower seed oil, which helps the skin retain moisture; and soybean oil, which boasts wound healing properties and also gives the skin a nice smooth sensation.

When you purchase a pair of 100% cashmere fingerless gloves from White + Warren (available in Black, Navy, Midnight Teal, Citron, Lilac, Grey Frost, and Fossil Heather), then, you'll also be receiving nearly $30 worth of hand care products. And considering that the gloves are over 50% off right now, you'll actually be getting a combined value of $120 for your $40 purchase.

With this deal, your hands are, well, in the right hands.