Sista SoFine

Wax Job

2011-05-28T07:01:00.017-04:00

At this weekend's DanceAfrica outdoor bazaar I hope to find an African print tote bag similar to this one. Handmade by women in Rwanda, part of a fair wage cooperative, there are nearly 30 steps involved in making the wax cloth. The term "wax" refers more to the manufacturing process rather than the texture of the cloth, and the process itself is very secretive. If you come across anything made from this fabric, purchase it immediately! This particular Textile Trade Tote from Anthropologie is the perfect summer accessory; use it to punch up that denim short and tank top ensemble, round it out with a pair of beaded sandals. ($48)

All the Right Moves

2011-05-20T06:43:00.000-04:00

The search for the perfect picnic/beach blanket must meet these specific criteria: large enough for at least 3 people, thick enough to keep out the wet and cold of the ground, strong enough to survive wine spills while managing to be tasteful and subdued in color and design. So what did I find? you ask. The Supreme Mover Moving Blanket! Built "Ford tough" and weighing in at nearly 8lbs, it's got a quilted cotton/poly blend cover with recycled cotton filler, and a double-stitched binding making it nearly indestructible. Sized 72"x80" and available in a pack of 4, the black and white blankets are multi-functional. One will be used as a cat bed, two will be reserved for park and beach outings, and the other will be used for it's original purpose, protecting furniture. ($62)

I'm With Coco

2011-05-19T06:45:00.006-04:00

Mama SoFine tipped me off to the wonders of coconut oil years ago. And I still use it! Sometimes I even eat it! Now my new thing is coconut water, which is the clear water at the center of a young coconut. Not to be confused with coconut milk which is the result of pressing the flesh of the coconut to produce a white milky liquid. Coconut water has tons of electrolytes, the stuff you need to quickly re-hydrate and balance your blood pH. In other words, it's natures little hangover cure which also happens to be fat and cholesterol free. I've tried every brand and have settled on Vita Coco which has the best flavor and is most similar to fresh coconut water. Frustrated by the per unit price, I've decided to take it up a notch and order by the flat. ($74)

Parks and Recreation

2011-05-18T06:40:00.002-04:00

I'm already thinking about what I might wear to this summer's outdoor concerts at Prospect Park. I'll probably attend at the very least 2 concerts and perhaps 2 picnics, which means I need to start building my wardrobe now. This cuters underwire denim bralet from Topshop is what I like to call "innocent-sexy," meaning that it's cute and wholesome minus the overtly sexual connotation. Think Ellie Mae Clampet. Plus it's versatile enough to wear out with a pair of shorts or prairie skirt; or under a cardigan with pedal-pushers just in case it gets a bit chilly at night. ($44)

What a Croc!

2011-05-17T07:16:00.001-04:00

Yes, I'm one of those people who thinks that crocs are the ugliest shoes on the planet. That is, until I saw these open-toe flats. I've heard from crocs lovers that the clogs are extremely comfy, but I could not get over that plastic-y turtle shell look and never bought a pair. Recently my foot has grown a bit wider so I decided to choose comfort over style and took a look at the crocs selection. These shoes are both comfortable AND stylish, people are shocked when I tell them the brand. Tiny nubs on the footbed massage your soles and the opening is wide enough to show 3 perfectly pedicured toes. I like them so much I just picked up another pair in black! Seriously! ($50)

Afri-CAN

2011-04-26T07:42:00.001-04:00

Missoni has been the most exciting knitwear house for over five decades; their funky patterns and color combinations are instantly recognizable and not easily copied. Yet I was taken aback by this Calvados African Bead print swimsuit, in my opinion it's one of the best of this season's African print trend.
The detail is actually quite exquisite, you really need to view quite closely to see that it is a print and not actual beadwork. Wear it poolside or to the beach, pair with shorts or a skirt and leather sandals. Generously cut to show off just the right amount of curves, you'll look and feel gorgeous in this suit. (£265)

Warm Leatherette

2011-04-23T07:29:00.002-04:00

Whilst perusing the Sergio Rossi website, I noticed a series of interesting accessories from the Spring/Summer 2011 collection. The most intriguing piece from this collection is the hammered brass bustier with luggage leather trim. Most likely to be seen on the bust of Grace Jones, the piece will occupy an honored spot in your closet next to the other things you never wear yet cannot part with. I want! ($4,570)

Hidden Agenda

2011-04-22T07:30:00.001-04:00

I have a purse to carry all of my items, and another purse within a purse. This inner purse contains: an iPhone, Estee Lauder Signature Lipstick in Rich Red, a memory stick, tiny paper slicer, pen, pad, snack, keys, digital camera, cinnamon Altoids, hand mirror, sunglasses, work ID, Metro Card, wallet, and hand fan. Now that I think about it, the rest of the bag is just for show, the real deal is the inner bag and I would be S.O.L. if it were snatched or lost. With the SCOTTEVEST/SeV Women's Trench you can fashionably shed your inner bag and keep all of your most important items on your person. Imagine 18 inner pockets, bulge-proof, water-proof and bullet-proof. OK, it's not bullet-proof, but you'll probably feel a bit invincible when wearing it. ($150)

Lunch Blocks

2011-04-20T07:42:00.027-04:00

Scientists have successfully crossed a bento box with a sandwich box, resulting in the creation of the (wait for it...) Ojue Lunch Box! At just over 2 inches in depth, it's quite possibly the thinnest and most useful lunch container ever invented. Separating into 3 different compartments, there's room for a serving of rice, a side of vegetables, and a main dish. There's even a built-in set of chopsticks with a holder too! Designed for the vertically oriented, it's roughly the same size as a paperback book and fits perfectly into your purse. Lovey! (￥2,800)

Baggage Claim

2011-04-19T07:09:00.001-04:00

Want to support American business? Then make your next handbag purchase a J.W. Hulme. Based in St. Paul, Minnesota since 1905, a small group of craftsmen and craftswomen piece together the leather goods using the same techniques developed over 100 years ago. Among the results, a handsome Fairmont Satchel with solid brass hardware and the type of quality full-grain leather that develops a warm patina over the years. A keepsake that only gets better with age, every J.W. Hulme piece comes along with a lifetime warranty! ($750)

Urn Unit

2011-04-15T06:50:00.004-04:00

Some girls are into flowers. They have cut flowers in pretty vases and even manage to keep orchids alive for periods lasting more than 1 week. I am trying very hard to become one of those girls; step number 1 is to find a lovely heirloom-worthy piece to hold a bouquet. Unique and handmade, this ceramic flower urn by Frances Palmer has gorgeous detail; the artist made plaster casts of blossoms from her own garden to create the look. A perfect gift for the green of thumb, the vase, full or empty, holds it's own on any mantle. ($475)

Small Scale

2011-04-14T07:13:00.002-04:00

Were there to be an updated version of the film "Splash" the mermaid character would undoubtedly purchase a pair of these booties during her infamous Bloomingdale's shopping spree. Reminiscent of fish scales or perhaps a project involving a paper hole-puncher, these Open Toe Leather Paillette Slouch Booties are uber-sexy in a rather irregular way. Constructed in Italy, the fine craftsmanship of Maison Martin Margiela is evident in the attention to detail in which every paillette is hand-sewn onto the bootie. ($1,295)

Female Jungle

2011-04-13T07:21:00.001-04:00

Summertime is around the bend, so while you're hitting the gym getting ready for bathing suit season, start taking note of the retro-style swimwear hitting the marketplace. This Lanvin leopard-print one piece has just the right amount of old-Hollywood glamour, the classic poolside swimsuit. Just add cat's eye sunglasses, a wide-brim straw sunhat, black espadrilles on wedge, cuff bracelets, ruby red lipstick and a Mai Tai to complete your Jayne Mansfield look. The flossy, flossy! (£1,040)

Off The Registry

2011-04-12T07:36:00.016-04:00

Typically bridal shower gifts are expected to be bought from the wedding registry. Yet so many lingerie websites now offer registries as well, so I don't see why the bridal shower can't be more of a "fill my trousseau" party. Traditionally, the party was held to help stock the bride's cedar "Hope Chest" with exquisite lingerie, embroidered linens, clothing for her honeymoon, fine china, toiletries and of course money. Declining to purchase what I'm sure was a much needed crock-pot, I decided to go off the registry and get some delicate and lacy lingerie instead. ($100)

Summer Boot

2011-04-08T07:27:00.005-04:00

What we Americans might call an ankle bootie is referred to as a Summer Boot in Brazil. Typically this open-air ankle bootie has cutouts or similar warm weather embellishments that differentiates it from a sandal or boot. This is not to be confused with the Shoe Boot, which more closely resembles a closed toe shoetie. Brazilian purveyor Luz da Lua (Moonlight) created this Chanel-like baby blue leather summer boot with the bow-tie trim and perforated body. This is a big brand South of the Equator; so the next time you find yourself in Rio, please pick up a pair for me. Thank you. (R$ 289,90)

Lock 'n' Load

2011-04-07T07:06:00.004-04:00

If you know a little something about jewelry, then you know what a Cartier Love Bracelet is. For the uninitiated, it's possibly the most recognizable Cartier piece following the Pathère de Cartier line and the Tank watch. Locking upon the wrist, the bracelet can only become unfastened with the tiny matching screwdriver, a symbol of commitment given by a lover. So when Belle casually appeared wearing the classic 18K gold version, a gift from her generous and attentive husband, my reaction was somewhat similar to the Loony Toons wolf. Stunning! ($4,850)

Easter Parade

2011-04-05T07:29:00.001-04:00

Back in the days of my youth, Easter Sunday meant a new dress with lace and frills and tiers and getting my hair done the night before. White patent leather shoes with buckles and ankle socks and perhaps even a tiny matching pocketbook to fit your Bonne Belle. Today's Easter seem a bit more casual, what happened to the hats and gloves? This year I propose stepping it up a notch, why not dress for dinner? Smocked and pleated in cotton voile, this scoopneck Nina Ricci tank dress has a delicate ribbon tie at the back, just like the one I had when I was a girl. ($1,790)

Style with Elsa Klensch

2011-04-04T07:24:00.002-04:00

Back when CNN was still relevant, arguably their most important programme was Style with Elsa Klensch. "Reporting on the design worlds of fashion, beauty and decorating," Ms. Klensch had me and tons of other children of the 80s and 90s glued to the television every Sunday afternoon. I practiced the model walk with a book on my head, mimicked the hair and makeup, and styled myself as best I could with what I had. Ah, memories...

Miniature Pincher

2011-04-03T09:34:00.034-04:00

If you're taking a survey of your closet and there's a tad too many black dresses, black pants, black skirts and black blouses don't worry, get accessorized. Jazz it up by investing in some brightly colored belts, shoes and bags. If it's going to be difficult moving out of your monochromatic comfort zone, a pop of color at the waist can get you started. This Chanel quilted leather mini belt-bag is step number one. From my best estimate, the belt likely dates from 1986 Spring/Summer collection. The bag can also be removed, but don't do it, this is a rare find and is too cute to alter! ($3,200)

Butter Up

2011-04-02T08:08:00.036-04:00

One of the newest additions to my hair care regimen a deep conditioner called, Raw Shea Butter Deep Treatment Masque. On a whim, I picked it up from my local drug store after studying the all-natural ingredient list. Since I've been using this product there has been a definite improvement. It's softer, shinier and less tangled than before; a difficult achievement for my super dry and curly hair. Once a week, I'll apply to my hair and top it off with a plastic cap for at least an hour. Rinse it out and voila! Defined and frizz-less curls, an added plus is the divine light vanilla scent. In my opinion, this is a bargain you can't afford to pass up! ($9.99)

Apron Strings

2011-04-01T07:16:00.053-04:00

I've been known to occasionally bake a sweet potato pie or cream cheese pound cake, but not that often. Why? Let's face the facts, it's a messy process and nobody likes to clean up afterwards. So while perusing a kitchen site for some new gadgets I came across these super cute vintage-style aprons. They help you to get in the mood to bake up a storm just like granny used to. And more practically, you'll be protecting your swank outfit for the fabulous dinner you've just prepared (or ordered) for your family and/or guests. Some are even available in kids sizes, perfect for baking cookies and sharing moments that don't actually involve a television. Sigh. ($19.96)

Finding Balance

2011-03-19T08:37:00.036-04:00

If you have less than perfect skin, then you're always on the lookout for the next best skincare product. Price usually is not an issue as you've long since graduated from ingredients like Benzoyl Peroxide onto more intense formulations containing mysterious botanical extractions and the super acids. One such star skin product is from those perfect-skinned Frenchies simply named P-50 Balancing Exfoliator. Developed by Biologique Recherche, the formulation contains extracts of Myrrh, Myrtle, Onion and Sage as well as a mixture of Lactic, Usnic, and Phenol acids. When combined in this exact formulation, the skin PH balances, exfoliates and generally makes your skin baby soft. Worth a try? Most definitely! ($89)

Fiesta (Remix)

2011-03-18T07:31:00.061-04:00

You may not have ever heard of French designer Louis Féraud, but I'm quite sure you're familiar with his work. Although Nolan Miller is listed as Costume Designer for the series, it was actually M. Féraud who created many of the glamourous suits that Alexis Carrington wore with such flair on the 80s hit "Dynasty." Joan Collins was already one of his many celebrity clients and she carried the look into the hit television show. Also a painter, it's no surprise that the designer had such a fascination with color theory and abstract shapes. This strapless 80s party dress has a funky confetti print and features two front pockets. Accessorize with Furla's new Candy bag and matching pump. ($184)

Powder Puff Girl

2011-03-17T07:43:00.002-04:00

The girlie girl in me couldn't help but squeal over this powder room shower curtain! Quite the lovely compliment to last week's sequined shower cap, this canvas curtain features Victoriana illustrations one might find in a vintage apothecary catalog. It's the perfect alternative to the frilly pink curtain in the typical bachelorette loo; display all of your perfume bottles and jeweled makeup compacts to round out your decor. ($49)

Get Me Bodied

2011-03-16T07:52:00.004-04:00

Some ladies like to keep their lingerie simple; functionality and durability are the tops concerns. They're not into frills and lace, and could care less about what a man thinks because it's all about her own comfort level. I can respect that, but it's no reason to jump on the Hanes Her Way bandwagon. Step it up a notch and shell out a few clams for some superb basics from Hanro of Switzerland. This company is known for it's high quality cotton and superior stitching, they've been in business since 1884 and the experience shows. I especially love their bodysuits, the latest collections range from the 80's style sleek cotton power-tank on the left to the delicate, lace trim pin-up charmer on the right. ($82/$210)