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The grass is greening up, the lakes have finally thawed (at least in the Twin Cities!), and anxious gardeners have started digging up their beds. As we throw open our windows and welcome spring indoors, we at Mpls.St.Paul Magazine knew the home-improvement bug would be biting soon inside as well. So, we're thrilled to present our best-ever batch of befores and afters in the latest issue of Mpls.St.Paul Home, which just hit newsstands.
 Our cover story is an exquisite renovation by designer Andrew Flesher of Gunkelman Flesher at Minneapolis's landmark 510 Groveland building. It joins an impressive lineup of befores and afters, including a Kenwood Victorian for architect David Heide and a wonderful cottage redo in Edina. You'll also find wonderful home decor trend stories, all featuring products you can buy locally. Perhaps most impressive is the beautiful preview of our 2008 ASID Showcase Home near Lake Harriet, which opens next week.
Pick up a copy today, and find inspiration for your weekend home-improvement scouting and shopping!
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Not that I’ve been keeping count, but it's hard not to notice that we’ve had four new luxury and/or boutique hotels open up in Minneapolis throughout the past few years. There’s the recent Ivy with its lauded Porter & Frye restaurant; the Westin in the old Farmer’s & Mechanics Bank; Graves 601 with its ultra-chic rooms and posh eatery, Cosmos; and, of course, Ralph Burnet’ s modern art-filled Chambers.
Within the next year, downtown Minneapolis will see two more hotels open up: The Hotel Minneapolis (a Doubletree Hotel) will open in August in the elegantly restored Midland building, promising a central location and luxury amenities for travelers of both business and pleasure. But the most anticipated new hotel for local history buffs, national architecture aficionados, and world travelers is Ralph Burnet’s W Minneapolis—The Foshay.
I had a chance to view the new W Foshay yesterday during a hardhat tour (the hotel is still under construction, but we were assured it will open on July 28, plenty of time before the RNC).
Although I am not originally from the Twin Cites, I had long heard my parents and grandparents (all from the Milwaukee area) tell stories of how the glorious and majestic Foshay building was the Minneapolis skyline. As soon as you saw it peeking over the horizon, you knew you were close to the city. I recognize the importance of such a historical building to our urban landscape and was pleased to learn that Burnet had purchased the building in hopes of turning it into another luxury hotel. The respect he demonstrated in refurbishing the building that now houses the Chambers has translated to the Foshay.
The W is certain to be sexy, provocative, and hip (a W Hotel's forte), but what is most impressive is the care that the Burnets, ESG Architects, Munge Leung Design Associates, and Shea Company construction have taken to restore the glory of the original 1928 building. Terrazzo floors were uncovered and refinished, original ceiling moldings were restored or, when beyond repair, completely replicated, and the exterior limestone will remain untouched.
But to inject a contemporary vibe into one of the greatest examples of art deco architecture, the décor will have more modern elements—color palette of gray, lavender, and shocking pink; clean-lined, lacquered furnishings; and plenty of dramatic lighting. Because of the unique architecture of the building, the 230 guest rooms will comprise fifty-three different design styles.
Nothing has been announced yet as far as the first floor restaurant goes, though knowing Burnet’s dedication to dining (he brought Jean George to the Chambers), we will likely get another important addition to our local dining scene. In addition, Keys will continue to operate and will also be an integral part of the room service offered to guests.
The main bar and lounge is situated in the grand first floor, but I think my friends and I will be spending most of our time in the African mahogany-paneled twenty-seventh floor, where the sweeping views of Minneapolis and cozy snugs are certain to spark romance.
The original ceilings are currently being restored to their art deco glory.
Artist rendering of the bar and lounge
W Living Room
W Great Room, a special event space
Guest room
Guest room bathroom
The guest room bar and lounge area
A view from the thirtieth floor observatory, which will once again be open to the public.
W Minneapolis—The Foshay opens July 28, 2008. 821 Marquette Ave., Mpls., 612-215-3700
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I am signing a lease today for a new apartment in downtown Minneapolis. Although I won't be moving until July, I have already started thinking about how I’ll switch up my décor.
I have a very schizophrenic design personality, which I haven’t yet completely honed in on. I am still trying to figure out the difference between styles I like in theory (American federal, English shabby chic, French country) and the style I want to live in (much more clean, calm, and reserved). I like things that look old but are actually new (lacquered neo-Rocco scroll work), mid-century style seating, art deco accents, and anything that looks a little unfinished and natural. I guess if I had to describe what my ideal place would look like, it would be a sort of glammed up, modern farm house—lots of natural, rough wood pieces; clean-lined furnishings; and flea market accents, with a few art deco flourishes to round it out.
Because I need to use most all of my furniture in my new apartment (Ikea Karlstad sofa, aspen wood coffee table, chrome side chairs, and countless lamps, accents, and mirrors), I’ve been scouring the Internet as of late trying to find some great pieces at reasonable prices to freshen up what I already have. Here are a few items that caught my eyes, some of which I hope to purchase in the next few months, some of which will stay on my wish list until I win the lottery.
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I’ve learned that I easily tire of color. The pattern of this rug gives it depth and texture, even in simple black and white. Morocco bikaner wool rug, five feet by eight feet (on sale for $249), from CB2 |
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If I could afford one thing right now, it would be a huge, worn-in
leather chair in which I could curl up get lost in with a good book. The buttery soft bourbon leather and mahogany finish is brawny without being overly
masculine. Cotswold Chair ($1,998) from Anthropologie, 4999 France Ave. S., Mpls., 612-285-9164; The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes, Maple Grove, 763-416-1447
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This 1960’s-style sofa is clean-lined and sparse, but the tufting and button cushions give it character. Petrie Sofa, ($1,499) from Crate & Barrel, Galleria, 952-920-2300
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I’ve long admired the wire design of the Bertoia chair, but I enjoy
this one for its more organic feel (and lower price tag). I can see this
pulled up to my wooden desk. De La Tour Chair ($160) from Urban Outfitters, 3006 Hennepin Ave., Mpls., 612-823-1000; Mall of America, 952-854-8448
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I love the graphic pattern on this rug, but I’d probably opt for it in its other color scheme, brown and ivory. I do get a little nervous about buying something such as a rug on the Internet, so I will probably wait until the West Elm store opens in Edina later this year. Yellow and ivory petal rug, five feet by eight feet ($199), West Elm |
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I am in pretty desperate need for a bed frame. I’ve been sleeping like
a college student with my box spring and mattress on the ground for
way too long. I like that this is a very streamlined version of a
canopy. Classic with no frill. Petite silhouette canopy bed in white ($499–$599), Brocade Home
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I have too many small bookcases. Before I move, I plan on taking them all to Goodwill and investing in one or two wall-length styles to store all of my books, magazines, and more. Expedit bookcase ($149) from Ikea, 8000 Ikea Way, Bloomington, 952-858-8088
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I have an Anthropologie shower curtain right now, but if I was in the market for the new one, a watercolor rendering of flowers would certainly cheer up my morning ritual on even the gloomiest of days. Sundew Shower Curtain ($88) from Anthropologie, 4999 France Ave. S. , Mpls., 612-285-9164; The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes, Maple Grove, 763-416-1447 |
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I love anything with a little bit of wink. The daguerreotype photographs framed in cameo-like scrolling could make for an understated accent piece. Cameo chair ($680) from Anthropologie, 4999 France Ave. S., Mpls., 612-285-9164; The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes, Maple Grove, 763-416-1447 |
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Again with the wink. I can’t stand a space that is overly precious, and
a funky owl lamp is certain to add a bit of humor to my living room.
Hoot lamp base ($36) from Urban Outfitters, 3006 Hennepin Ave., Mpls., 612-823-1000; Mall of America, 952-854-8448
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As (the prospect of!) warm weather has us scanning stores for outdoor furniture, it's exciting to learn that two cutting edge works by MCAD Furniture Design students might soon be produced and sold by Room & Board. Student designers, challenged in a competition sponsored by the retailer, came up with prototypes for outdoor seating that could be produced domestically from environmentally friendly materials.
One of the winning entries was "Bask," a chair designed by senior Matt Borchert. It's made of welded steel and rope. The idea, he says, came from a combination of his love for strong, almost typographic lines and materials that fit in with the outdoor environment.
"Seymour," the second winning entry, is a chair and ottoman designed by junior Mac Plumstead. Starting with the concept of an Adirondack chair, Plumstead came up with the cool design of cut, folded metal over a welded steel frame.
The competition, now in its sixth year, usually recognizes one design, so this year's winning pair is a first. Room & Board's vendor resource manager, Steve Freeman, actually considers the 2008 proposals the best yet. And although it's not yet known whether the retailer will produce and sell the designs, there is history of doing so: "Stow," a media console designed in 2005 by MCAD student Maxwell Kelsey, is part of Room & Board's current furniture line.
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If you lived in the Twin Cities in the '90s, you must remember Steve and Sharon, the infamous duo that hosted KSTP's Good Company. Our local ABC affiliate is hoping to hit gold again with Twin Cities Live, a mid-afternoon talk and news program hosted by Rebekah Wood and John Hanson. The search for the hosts took months and spanned the continent, and the show premiered yesterday. We nabbed a few minutes of the hosts' busy time and asked them a few harmless questions.
John Hanson:
Q. What is your favorite Twin Cities neighborhood and why?
A. The Warehouse District because it’s near some great lounges and close to the sports arenas
Q. Necessary extravagance?
A. Premium beer
Q. What can’t you leave home without?
A. Like everyone else on Earth, my cell phone
Q. Who inspires you?
A. People with muscular dystrophy who don’t let it stop them from constantly achieving
Q. Where can we find you on a Friday Night?
A. r.Norman’s
Q. Have Steve and Sharon given you any advice?
A. No, I haven’t had a chance to talk to them, but I would love to.
Q. Tell us something we don’t know
about your co-host, Rebekah?
A. She had to overcome some amazing
competition for the job and earned it.
Rebekah Wood:
Q. What is your favorite Twin Cities neighborhood and why?
A. Woodbury because it’s my neighborhood, and the people there have been unbelievably welcoming.
Q. Necessary extravagance?
A. Starbucks . . . two toddlers, need I say more?
Q. What can’t you leave home without?
A. Guilt—whenever I have to drop my girls off at preschool. Or, C.O. Bigelow mint lip gloss. Both are always with me.
Q. Who inspires you?
A. My husband who is winning a pretty tough fight against brain cancer
Q. Where can we find you on a Friday Night?
A. I’d like to say at a great happy hour, but usually it’s popcorn party night with my family.
Q. Have Steve and Sharon given you any advice?
A. Not yet, but I can’t wait until they do.
Q. Tell us something we don’t know about your co-host, John?
A. He’s got a great overbite when he dances.
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The best in local fashion and music graced the stage at First Ave. last night, and I was lucky enough to have a front-row seat. Fashion followers, music lovers, photographers, and local media crowded
the floors for this year's Voltage: Fashion Amplified. The bands were rocking, the models were working the catwalk, and the crowd was loving every minute of it. As with any fashion show, there were definite hits and misses, but overall, I was thoroughly impressed with what our Twin Cities talent produced. Creativity flourished on the runway in everything from '80s-inspired jumpsuits to vintage brocade gowns to dip-dyed organic dresses. Musically, local rock favorite White Light Riot got the crowd going, but it was rap duo MC/VL that stole the show—interacting with not only the audience but the models as well. And at a show such as Voltage, a great soundtrack can make all the difference.
The most coveted fashions included those by George Moskal, Amanda Christine, Katherine Gerdes, Red Shoe Clothing, and Laura Fulk. Many of which can be found at Voltage Fashion Weekend events today through Sunday. Below are some of the looks I loved.
George Moskal:
Amanda Christine:
Katherine Gerdes:
Red Shoe Clothing Co.:
Laura Fulk:
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I love the aluminum SIGG water bottle I received as a gift from my sister earlier this year. Not only is it eco-friendly (it's reusable and doesn't contribute to the more than 20 billion plastic water bottles that end up in landfills every year), it's also an ideal size, it keeps my water/Crystal Light/beverage-of-choice perfectly chilled, and the handy screw-off top seals in liquid as I carry it to and from the office and gym every day. Plus, the chic magenta, black, and white design has turned heads of many of my design-savvy coworkers. (I can't tell you how many people have commented on something as simple as a water bottle!)
And it looks like I'm not the only one who's loving this sporty green trend. Last night, I was flipping through the newest issue of Elle to find a whole page devoted to SIGG bottle designs. Elle joined forces with SIGG and a handful of top fashion designers to create fourteen one-of-a-kind bottle designs, customized by the likes of Michael Kors, Diane von Furstenburg, Zac Posen, Donna Karan, Phillip Lim, and other fashion elite.
Anyone can bid for the bottles on eBay (through April 24), and 100 percent of profits benefit the grassroots movement StopGlobalWarming.org. I've got my eye on Peter Som's 360-degree fashion sketch and Anna Sui's uber-colorful creation . . .
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Other SIGG designs are available locally at Twin Cities Green, REI, and Whole Foods Market.
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Minneapolis newcomer and co-designer of hot handbag line Alexis Hudson, Rachelle Copeland, stops by StyledLife today from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for the brand's first TC trunk show. Known for their timelessness, functionality, and high style, the handbags have decorated the arms of Cindy Crawford, Kate Hudson, the Olsen twins, and Keira Knightley.
Q. Why Handbags?
A. I’ve always been passionate about handbags. Before starting my company, I designed bags for other companies, and I felt there was a niche in the market for the “perfect handbag.” Something that is both beautiful and functional.
Q. While your bags are trend conscious, they’re not overtly reminiscent of a certain season.
A. I see handbags as more of a stylish staple than something that should be “it.” My goal was to create handbags that would help define a woman’s sense of style and can be worn year after year—sophisticated, luxurious, and of the moment but not captured solely on trends.
Q. Where does your inspiration come from?
A. Everything. Travel, architecture, vintage.
Q. What spring trends are you most excited for?
A. I am excited to be wearing dresses again (especially since moving to Minnesota); they are key for spring and so easy to wear. I am also excited that color is back and that it is available in so many wearable incarnations.
Q. How many handbags do you own?
A. Too many to count. My favorite right now is the “Eos” from the spring collection. It is the perfect day bag.
StyledLife, Gaviidae Common, Mpls., 612-746-5400 to schedule an appointment.
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Frank Gehry has just released a new assortment of his popular jewelry collection for Tiffany & Co. The renowned architect first introduced a collection for the jewelry box a few years ago, and architecture, design, and jewelry junkies quickly collected his sharp statement pieces.
Although I tend to like adornments that are a bit chunkier and more blinged out, I’ve always loved what Gehry has produced for Tiffany & Co. Back when I was a student in journalism at the University of Minnesota, the bold curves and soft metallic surfaces of the Weisman Art Museum always appeared as a little piece of jewelry compared to the roughness of its surroundings.
Cast from the finest diamonds and metals in Gehry’s signature clean-lined and straight-edged shapes, a piece from Gehry’s collection will lend an instant edge of modern glamour to any ensemble.
Weisman Art Museum; open torque necklace in sterling silver ($1,850); flux earrings in 18K gold ($725); circular fish earrings ($2,300) in pavé diamonds and 18K white gold; vircular fish pendant in pavé diamonds and 18K white gold ($1,300).
Photos courtesy Tiffany & Co.
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Monique Lhuillier's Fall 2008 collection (on runways this past February) is now on preview at her Edina boutique. The collection, which was inspired by smoking, flapper-populated lounges, is awash in peacock blue, olive green, and ombre grays with plenty of rich textiles and luxe embellishments—feathers, hand beading, fur, glossy paillettes.
Best way to channel Keira Knightley in Atonement:
Silk halter gown with draped Juliette sleeves in charmeuse ($3,900).
Best workday attire:
Left: wool kimono jacket in coffee and gray ombre with fox fur cuff ($3,500), wool high-waisted skirt in coffee and gray ombre ($1,100), and floral crystal belt ($385). Right: wool jersey dress in noir with embroidered sleeves and ruched waist ($2,400).
Best ways to cover up:
Day: Bouclé coat in metallic and noir with Bunka embroidery and fox fur ($8,500). Night: Chiffon-embroidered bolero in graphite with jeweled belt ($2,800).
Best red carpet gown:
Metallic jacquard one-shoulder dress in gold with exaggerated ruffle ($3,300).
Best fall colors: saturated citrine green and saffron yellow.
Left: Bahia krillo satin dress with pleated bodice and peacock collar ($2,900). Right: chiffon halter gown with ostrich paillette skirt ($9,800).
Best goddess gowns:
Left: silk jersey-draped gown in peacock blue with cabochon-embroidered collar ($5,200). Right: silk jersey Grecian gown in indigo with jeweled shoulder ($3,600).
The trunk show is at the Edina store through Saturday, April 5. All of these pieces and more are available by special order. Monique Lhuillier, 3928 W. 50th St. Mpls., 612-929-0747
A note to brides-to-be: The new bridal collection, which hits runways today, will be in the Edina salon for a trunk show April 24–26.
Lifestyle designer Angela Adams has introduced a new rug to be sold at Design Within Reach. The traditional hand-tufted wool rug, named Ocean, is made with 100 percent
New Zealand wool and celebrates the designer's love of the sea (she's from Portland, Maine, after all). The rug comes in two sizes: five-by-eight ($899) and eight-by-ten ($1,499).
The collection is available online and at the Minneapolis outpost of Design Within Reach. 2939 Hennepin Ave., 612-827-0990
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No one can argue that Target has not made serious strides in the past few years to appeal to the fast-fashion, designer-hungry crowd. We all know about Tar-jay’s partnership with Isaac Mizrahi as well as designers such as Proenza Schouler, Behnaz Sarafpour, and Erin Fetherston with GO International.
Yet although Target has made headway in the accessories department during the past year—through collaborations with Rafe (handbags), Devi Kroell (handbags), and Loeffler Randall (shoes and handbags)—the one place it has always lagged behind is the jewelry area. But now Target is partnering with designer Joy Gryson of Gryson for a line of practical, luxury handbags and with Subversive’s Justin Giunta (a CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund finalist, an artist, and a jewelry, interior, and industrial designer) for a collection of jewelry.
Gryson’s collection will further what Target started to establish with Randall, Kroell, and Rafe—handbags with all of the embellishments and some of the finery of the higher-end styles with a much lower price tag.
Gryson’s handbags are pretty and practical in patent faux leather and on-trend colors, but I am much more excited to see what Target’s first foray into a jewelry partnership will produce.
Subversive for Target is based on Giunta's ethos of more is more.
A turquoise-inspired cameo necklace is given chunky wooden beads and a gold leaf interlude, a gold charm bracelet is abuzz with killer bees and red and gold beads, a five-strand necklace has clusters of faux pearls in a range of subdued colors, an antique-looking locket is opened and overflowing with cascading fringe, and resin bracelets are given antique-inspired appliqués.
As a girl who lives by the more is more ethos, the Subversive for Target collaboration means I will no longer have to run out to MOA’s For Love 21 for a quick accessories fix.
Gryson for Target will be available April 6–June 21.
Subversive for Target will be available March 23–July 20.
Treasure hunters, listen closely. Macy’s North is having a massive final blowout sale of all its Flea Market finds from its stores in Chicago, Minneapolis, and Detroit. The specialty boutique, which was brought into stores last June, includes finds from all over the world such as vintage handbags, jewelry, modern artwork, and loads of furniture.
The sale goes through Saturday and takes place during store hours in the 8th floor auditorium at Macy’s Nicollet Mall location. All items are marked 35 to 75 percent off.
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I braved the snow and blistery air on Monday afternoon and made a trek to St. Paul to check out the artisan wares at Artist Mercantile. The mix of art, jewelry, pottery, and glassware is always eclectic and reflective of the wonderful creatives that come out of our state. Here are a few of the things that caught my eye:
The pendants on these ribbon necklaces are actually dominoes. I love the range of prints—from Art Deco flappers to Marie Antoinette portraiture—that artists Marta Christmann and Kristen Fairman apply to each one ($32 each).
We are in the heat (pun intended) of the layering season right now, and nothing could look more chic and fresh than a pop of bright color or an ethnic print. This hand-loomed jacket by Elizabeth Horst has a jewel-tone color that is ideal for brightening up winter's navy, black, and gray wardrobe ($290).
Cameos have an innate femininity that make them a natural partner for winter white kits and filmy scarves. The Swarovski crystal (left, $55) and glass bead (right, $50) medallion necklaces by Marsha West also have a heft and a length that make them great for elongating a look.
The entertaining season might be over, but a great wooden serving spoon can add style to your table anytime. These styles, carved in red cedar and butternut wood, by Russell Benoy, are surprisingly slight ($45 each).
Artist Mercantile, 24 W. 7th Pace, St. Paul, 651-222-0053
You know warm weather is somewhat near when Macy's announces the inspiration for its 2008 Spring Flower Show.
We just got word that this year's theme is Floranova. Opening March 13, the annual event transforms Macy's Minneapolis and State Street (Chicago) stores into luxurious Latin-themed gardens, extravagant art displays, and bustling event centers.
Our Downtown Macy's once again partners with local flower purveyor Bachman's to decorate the store's street-level first floor. Find botanical vignettes based on the exotic beauty of Mexico, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Brazil, the Amazon, and South Beach. The brightly hued décor and organic silver sculptures by famed Brazilian artist Maria Bonomi are sure to draw a crowd. In addition, look for Carnival-themed events, such as DJs, cooking and craft demonstrations, salsa lessons, and a global market place featuring items from Latin locales.
March 13-30, 2008 (during store hours): Macy's, 700 Nicollet Mall, Mpls., 612-375-5020
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Target's annual Global Bazaar, featuring hundreds of home items from more than twenty countries, is back! This year, annual department rollout is themed around a few different color stories, including green and ivory; red, black, and white; yellow, black, and white; bronze; and blue and purple. Although I appreciate the color coordinating—if done right, it can look extremely chic—I think it is much more fun to pick items from all of the collections and create a space that is more bohemian, global, and unique to your style.
Here are a few of my cravings:
The scrolling botanical detail and ivory color give the hand-painted cream trunk a very Victorian feel ($129.99).
Add interest to an interior wall, and bring a bit of sunshine in during the dreariest of days with the wire capiz sunburst wall mirror ($69.99).
Give a room a bit more of a global spin with a collection of ceramic white elephants ($7.99).
If I had a le smoking room with deep leather couches and tall mahogany bookcases, I would warm it up with a few sets of embroidered paisley pillows ($19.99).
The square mirrored side table has a very modern art deco feel ($149.99).
Rugs can be so expensive; even styles at Ikea run upward of $1,000. But this hand-tufted wool eight-foot-by-ten-foot rug manages to be chic without breaking the bank ($299.99).
Curious about your decorating style? Check out one of these fun quizzes from iVillage and HGTV.
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If the time between Thanksgiving and Valentine’s Day accounts for nearly 40 percent of all engagements, then the time between January and June accounts for the busiest time for gown purchases. Accordingly, last weekend was the Bridal Spectacular at the Depot, and this weekend there are trunk shows at both Our Shop (Justin Alexander) and L’atelier Couture (Carolina Herrera and Vera Wang).
I stopped in to L’atelier Couture yesterday while the owner was unpacking the shipment of thirty gowns from the two designers. The dresses, which retail anywhere between $3,500 and $6,000 and are 10 percent off during the trunk show, are from the designers' most recent collections (Spring 2008 and Fall 2008) as well as popular classics. Additionally, the thirty dresses encapsulate a variety of bridal styles from an island-getaway sheath to princess styles with chapel trains.
According to owner Amanda Kautt, brides should purchase their dress approximately eight months before the ceremony. Many of the designer gowns at L'atelier Couture (they also retail Elizabeth Fillmore, Angel Sanchez, Peter Langner, Rosa Clara, and Karl Lagerfeld for Rosa Clara) take three or four month to arrive. Add onto that multiple fittings, tailoring, and adjustments, and any less time would induce too much stress on the bride.
Although I can appreciate the level of design and tailoring of many of the dresses from both Herrera and Wang as well as styles by Jenny Lee and Elizabeth Fillmore, I completely fell in love with these two styles that are both seamless and retrospective in material and embellishment yet utterly modern in cut.
Carolina Herrera and Vera Wang bridal trunk shows going on today through Saturday.
L’atelier Couture Bridal Boutique, 493 Selby Ave., St. Paul, 651-602-9493
Hot off the success of its Alhambra collection (Reese Witherspoon owns necklaces in almost every length and color, and Eva Longoria gifted each of her female wedding guests with a Van Cleef & Arpels Sweet Alhambra bracelet) and with a lawsuit against Heidi Klum to boot, French jeweler Van Cleef & Arpels has introduced a new collection. Fleurette and Flower Lace perfectly plays off of fashion’s current ode to flora with ribbons of diamonds spun into delicate row of flowers. The subtly interlaced strands of the three-flower necklace offer décolleté adornment complete with sensual glimpses of the skin. Unfortunately, the closest Van Cleef boutique is in Chicago.
Van Cleef & Arpels, 636 Michigan Ave. N., Chicago, 312-944-8988
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Alliances between fashion designers and mass retail chains is nothing new—Isaac Mizrahi has been designing for Target since 2002, and there were plenty of designer/retailer partnerships before that. And collaboration between a fashion designer and a provocative artist is nothing we haven’t seen before—Marc Jacobs teemed with artist Stephen Sprouse in 2001 and Takashi Murakami in 2003 for accessories collections for fashion house Louis Vuitton.
But it seems that in the past couple of years, the number of artistic partnerships have taken flight, especially in the realm of fashion and home design. So what is it about the current times that makes for such an encouraging environment for these creative meetings of the mind? I think it all boils down to the democratization of design. During the first fifty years of the twentieth century, only the highest members of society could afford French couture or custom-designed clothes, so the creation of mass retailing has instilled in us all a yearning to wear something by a big-name designer.
Through the entrance of women in the workplace, double-income households, and fashion as a necessity, among other factors, good design became something that more people could afford. Luxury fashion and design houses quickly caught on, offering small leather goods, cosmetics, and fragrances to appease the masses' desire for a taste of the pudding. We have a desire within us for luxury, and the opportunities we’ve had to become acquainted with the finer things create more of an aspiration for it all.
Collaboration is just another evolution in design. Retail as a whole might be declining along with our economy, but organizations such as Target, H&M, and Topshop not only provide affordability in good design, but they also keep designers’ wallets nicely padded while the talent continue to create fashions for their own design houses.
With so many great collaborations out in stores now (and at a variety of price points), the idea that the best products come out of the creative summit of two or more minds is solidified. These partnerships are a winning solution for the designers, retailers, and us insatiable consumers.
Here are some of the great collaborations currently on shelves or in the works.
Stella McCartney introduced golf wear to her Spring/Summer 2008 collection for Adidas (she has been designing yoga, dance, gym, and tennis clothes as well as the post-workout cover up since 2005). Find select items at Nordstrom and One Thousand Steps.
Hot on the heels of accessories designers Devi Kroell, Rafe, and Hollywould, Jessie Randall of Loeffler Randall is the current accessories designer for Target. The metallic flats and evening clutches have been receiving a lot of Internet buzz, but I love the simplicity and timelessness of the woven faux leather satchel.
Although the Erin Featherston’s über-girly garb is currently still on the racks at Target, bohemian fashion babes everywhere are a buzz about the next GO International designer. Milla Jovovich and Carmen Hawk of Jovovich-Hawk are up next with a collection vintage-inspired and print-heavy tunics, smocks, and minis. And later this spring, Rogan Gregory (former designer for the Gap; CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Award winner for 2008; current designer at ethical T-shirt label EDUN; current designer for Loomstate, and organic line of T-shirts and jeans company; and designer of his own namesake line) threads will hit the shelves. Available at Target this spring. Image above is from Jovovich-Hawk's Spring 2008 ready-to-wear collection.
The runway at Louis Vuitton was a complete ode to artist Richard Prince—spray painted and text-emblazoned accessories, sexy nurses in see-through plastic coats, and garish pastels. Love it or hate it, the bags are sure to be one of the “it” items of the season and will probably inspire a throng of knockoffs. Available at Louis Vuitton stores.
Pierre Hardy, a French accessories designer who has created jewelry for Hermès
and shoes for Balenciaga, signed on to do a capsule shoe collection for
the United States retailer Gap. But before you rush out to your neighborhood Gap for this collection of men’s and women’s footwear, I regret to tell you that Pierre Hardy’s sculpturally designed shoes will only be available at the European outposts of the retailer. In fact, if you’ve ever had the pleasure of traveling abroad and for some odd reason stepped into Gap (I stuck to one-of-a-kind boutiques and European retailers, such as Topshop) the Euro birds have much superior designs to choose from.
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 Wisconsin-based stationery company Myndology got a makeover last year when it partnered with Minneapolis design firm Duffy & Partners (the same people behind Thymes' Indigenous Collection, which I featured earlier on Style Parlor).The already-clever products, including note cards, disc-bound notebooks, and organizational tools, became more stylized and fitting for today's trend-savvy students, writers, and note takers.
I'm excited about the recently launched Myndology Bare collection, an innovative line of eco-friendly paper products. Available in a variety of earth tones and made with 100 percent recycled materials, soy-based ink, and acid-free paper, Myndology Bare helps keep the earth clean while organizing your thoughts. It's even manufactured using 100 percent hydroelectric energy.
As with all Myndology products, the disc-bound design allows for removal and rearrangement of pages, and the lightweight covers are easily stored in everything from backpacks to briefcases. Budget-friendly prices range from $5 to $9.50 (depending on size), and the pages are refillable, so you'll be saving more than just trees.
Available at Bibelot and The Wedge.
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 December has been pretty much a blur for all of us in our office, and as much fun as 2007 has been (we introduced this blog!), we’re excited for the New Year and what’s to come in 2008. So as you sit watching the clock tick by this afternoon, longing for a lazy weekend filled with returns and exchanges, here are some fun links to take up your time.
One of my new favorite stationary designers, Molly Woodland (design at left), is also from Minnesota.
From the skinny model debate to plus-size jeans at Calvin Klein, nudie designer pictures to Vera Wang on Ugly Betty, this year saw some interesting things. The New York Times anoints 2007 The Year that Yelled 'Notice Me'.
Have a wedding on the horizon? W Magazine takes a different look at something blue.
As the first in a series of shows designed to promote dialogue about fashion, the Metropolitan Museum of Art presents some forty costumes and accessories dating from the eighteenth century to the present and invites visitors to share their opinions.
Did you know there was lead in your mascara? Now that Minnesota has banned it, the question is, will Minnesotans be left with crappy mascara, or will the cosmetic industries step up and reconfigure their formulas?
Are you as excited for the Sex and the City movie as we are?
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If you have a gift card to Barnes & Noble or Borders burning a hole through your pocket (I know I do), why not treat yourself to a wonderful new coffee-table book on fashion, design, or style. Throughout the past few months, some really great books have been published on these subjects from some of the foremost minds in the fashion and design industries. Here are the ones currently occupying space on my coffee table and in my mind.
In Vogue: The Illustrated History of the World's Most Famous Fashion Magazine
I have been pining after this book for two years and finally was able to delve into it on Christmas Eve. From wonderful art (illustrated vintage covers dating back to 1892 and the photography of Steven Klein, Irving Penn, Patrick Demarchelier, Richard Avedon, and Helmut Newton) to narrative on the delicate inner workings of the fashion and magazine industries, this entire book is a creative treat. But my favorite part was the insiders' look into publishing one of the world’s most important fashion magazines—behind-the-scenes anecdotes (including how many people it takes to create the fabulous fashion shoots), insider photos, and discarded proofs.
Little Black Book of Style
Nina Garcia, fashion director of Elle Magazine and arduous judge on Project Runway, penned this reference book to personal style with an authoritative, yet coaching, tone. The Colombia native talks about the influence globetrotting parents and American prep schooling had on her personal style, noting how important it is to tell our stories though our appearances. With playful illustrations by Reuben Toledo, Little Black Book of Style offers frank and witty advice on everything from creating a closet full of classics to pointers on guarding against fashion faux pas and how to achieve a signature, personal style.
Stylist: The Interpreters of Fashion
And ode to the often-unheralded, behind-the-scenes powers in the fashion industry, Stylist: The Interpreters of Fashion by Sarah Mower looks deep into the world of the individuals who are called upon by designers, editors, photographers, and celebrities to tell them what’s hot and what’s not. The book, once again full of phenomenal fashion photography, features sixteen of today’s top tastemakers, including the theatrical Polly Mellon, French Vogue’s Carine Rotfield, flame-haired beauty Grace Coddington, and Hollywood force of nature Andrea Lieberman. It is these fashion insiders whose inherent sense for the next big thing, distinctly creative minds, and discerning tastes often help reinvent staid fashion houses, add bravado to editorial, and create trends of epic proportion.
Vintage Fashion: Collecting and Wearing Designer Classics, 1900-1990
If you are an amateur vintage collector (like moi), this book by Emma Baxter Wright is a perfect guide to the fashions of the last century. The text breaks down trends and dissects vintage pieces pointing out what collectors should look for, and the color photography showcases the fabrics, techniques, silhouettes, shapes, and workmanship that are indicative of the style and craftsmanship of vintage garments. The most useful part: a shopping guide offering tips on where to buy vintage pieces, how to care for them, and glossaries on fashion terms and the century's most collectible designers.
Tony Duquette
Step into the divine, theatrical world of American artist and design legend Tony Duquette in this 416-page, five-pound retrospective of his life and designs. Duquette is known for his over-the-top style and clients ranging from Elizabeth Arden to the Duchess of Windsor, and I first took notice of him when I received my April 2007 issue of Harpers Bazaar in which Reese Witherspoon was photographed in a Nina Ricci gown at Duquette’s exotic and eccentric Dawnridge estate. A true renaissance man, Duquette designed interiors, jewelry, costumes, and sets for MGM and the Broadway production of Camelot. The book is sumptuously illustrated in words and pictures with author Wendy Goodman delving into archives, old photographs, and anecdotes of Duquette.
That Extra Half an Inch
I have a not-so-secret crush on Victoria Beckham. There is just something about her over-the-top fabulousness and love of tight and bright fashions that I find oddly appealing. In That Extra Half an Inch, Beckham coaches women on how to make themselves the very best woman they can be. A step back in feminism, maybe, but her style pointers (a whole chapter on looking chic in jeans!) are right-on and witty.
Vogue Living
If you’re looking for a collection of photography from the world’s most stunning residences, pick up Vogue Living. Written and compiled by Hamish Bowles (European editor at large for Vogue and editor in chief of Vogue Living), this book showcases thirty-six spectacular houses and gardens—whose equally spectacular owners come from the worlds of fashion, music, art, and society. Vogue Living’s rich photography and energetic prose is the most irresistible home tour I have ever been on: from Christian Louboutin’s whimsical houseboat on the Nile to Marella Agnelli’s breathtaking gardens in the Palmeraie of Marrakesh, Madonna’s rustic, romantic English countryside retreat to Oscar and Annette de la Renta’s Palladian Dominican mansion.
Style A to Zoe: The Art of Fashion, Beauty, & Everything Glamour
Although I might be so incredibly sick of the Zoebot look, no one can doubt the influence Rachel Zoe has had on fashion from Hollywood to suburban malls. She took starlets out of jeans and flip-flops and dressed them in vintage Halston and red-soled Louboutins and thus created a legion of young followers in oversized sunglasses and designer handbags. In Style A to Zoe, Rachel Zoe shares insider tips on how to live a luxe and fabulous life with advice on must-have accessories, wardrobe staples, when to splurge, when to save, and how to decorate, entertain, and travel in style.
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Jessie Randall got her start in fashion working under women's wear designer Katayone Adeli and later designing for the accessories department at casual retailer Banana Republic. In 2004, she collaborated with her husband, Brian Murphy, to debut the Loeffler Randall collection, a variety of modern and feminine footwear. The upscale line grew to include an assortment of chic handbags, and this fall, Randall and Murphy added a lovely fall ready-to-wear collection.
Until now, Randall's award-winning accessories were only available at high-end boutiques and department stores. But get ready: Her very covetable designs debut in Target stores this Sunday, including contemporary clutches, elegant satchels, and stylish, feminine flats.
I'm excited to see the designs in person, especially the footwear. I tend to stay away from flats because of my height (or lack there of), but these muted rose, gold python, and patent black and brown ballet flats are pretty irresistible. With artistic rosettes and comfy elastic shells, the shoes are very on-trend and can be worn with everything from jeans to dresses ($29.99 each).
I also love this oversized crinkle tote with gathered opening, which is available in brown patent or cream ($39.99). Such as the ballet flats, it coordinates well with both day and evening looks.
Collection available December 30, 2007, through March 23, 2008.
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A great smelling home fragrance is one thing; a great package design is
another. Get both in Thymes' Indigenous Collection. We can always rely
on the Minnesota-based company to bring us some of the best-smelling
candles, home fragrances, lotions, and soaps around, but this new line of Thymes products
offers more than just pleasant aromas for your abode.
The
Indigenous Collection features several new artistically driven package
designs (created by fellow Twin Cities company Duffy & Partners) and six exotic scents inspired by unique, global destinations. Using native ingredients, the collection brings rarely found fragrances into your living space. And as an added incentive, all reed diffusers, candles, and home-fragrance mists are made with recycled and non-ozone-depleting materials.
I love anything with a summery citrus scent (especially during these cold, winter months), so the Mediterranean-inspired neroli blossom diffuser, candle, and home fragrance spray—with hints of sun-sweetened citrus, neroli, gardenia, and jasmine—are my top picks. Plus, the chic red-and-gold packaging matches my bedroom décor!
Pick up one as a gift for your favorite hostess, or grab one for yourself to prepare your home for holiday guests ($20 to $60).
Available at Ampersand, Bibelot, Garden of Eden, Patina, and Stonecrop, or online at the Thymes website.
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There’s something extraordinary and singular about traversing city streets, popping in and out of tiny shops and boutiques during the holiday season. Crisp, winter air nibbling at your nose, beautiful boulevard décor, the distinct personality of the stores—you just can't get the same feeling in a climate-controlled mall. And as Minnesotans, I believe we somewhat like la douleur exquise of darting across snow-covered streets from store to store to find perfect gifts for our loved ones. Last weekend, I hit 50th & France to check out the must-haves at some of my favorite retailers.
For the lady on your list who loves costume jewelry, this funky octopus necklace is a great option. The broach is removable, so it is really a two-for-one adornment, and the bright orange color is important in both the resort and spring 2008 seasons. Necklace by Serenity Stones from Clutch Boutique ($92).
Both decorative and functional, a decoupage glass plate can be used as a
serving piece or displayed on a wall. The tongue-in-cheek designs range
from botany and curiosities to vintage fashions and city scenes. Card
Suits tray by Kaas Glassworks from Gather ($165).
For the habitual hostess on your list, this chip and dip serving tray in bamboo will make even the most unspectacular appetizer look divine. Tray by Totally Bamboo from Cooks of Crocus Hill ($29).
OK, so I know this is supposed to be about gift buying, but I so want a pair of high-waist jeans. Tuck a simple white T from Gap into one of these, and pair with a huge gold belt and teetering heels, and you look laid back yet pulled together during your holiday events. Malik wide-leg jeans in powder by J Brand; double-pocket jeans in indigo and vintage wash, both by Morrissey; all are from Grethen House ($230, $180, and $160).
Funky flats make a great gift for stylistas of all ages, and this pair is perfectly on trend in lipstick red pony hair. Flat by Eileen Shields from N'Etc at Grethen House ($395).
Again, this might not be something you should buy for someone else, so maybe stuff your own stocking with this miracle cream. Crème de la Mer not only makes skin firmer and smoother, but it will save your skin from the dry winter air. Crème de la Mer cream from Cos Bar ($120 for one ounce).
Seventy percent dark chocolate or milk chocolate fondue in a miniature crate is a fun hostess gift or stocking stuffer for the chocolate lover. Chocolate fondue crate set from Sur La Table ($39.95).
A woman of style can never have too many pashminas; one in a bright fuchsia, crimson, or ruby will brighten up the grays and blacks of her winter wardrobe. Pashminas from Bluebird Boutique ($66 to $71).
Although charm jewelry has been around for centuries, this style of charm bracelet by Pandora incorporates charms in a different and more modern way. Great for a mother or grandmother, the designs are handmade in Denmark using sterling silver, 24k gold, black onyx, colorful precious stones, and cultured pearls. Bracelets and beads, both from Live Laugh Love. ($40 and up; and $20 and up).
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Throughout history, rings have been worn to indicate rank, confer high office, invoke magical powers, tell us our moods, carry poison, and, of course, seal a marriage. But it is the cocktail ring—from big glitzy gems to rough metals and organic materials—that are charged with personality.
The cocktail ring gained mass popularity during Prohibition when women decided to flaunt the fact that they were drinking illegally and doing so in style. Prohibition might be over, and you might not be at nightly cocktail parties, but the statement ring can be easily worn both day and night with a variety of outfits.
In the December issue's LifeStyle department (on newsstands now), Jayne Haugen Olson and I featured a page of some of the best cocktail rings to be found in the Twin Cities, but here are a few that didn’t make the final cut.
(The links below will give you addresses and phone numbers.)
Hand-painted enamel carousel ring from J. Crew ($75).
Vintage three-stone agate ring from StyledLife ($58).
Pearl flower ring from Banana Republic ($45).
Bee ring by Alexis Bittar from Nordstrom ($175).
Oval faceted ring from For Love 21 ($3.80).
Vintage woven seven-stone ring from StyledLife ($78).
One of my New Year's resolutions is to get more organized. My life is chock-full of deadlines, meetings, bills, appointments, and events—I can hardly keep everything straight. I'm guessing I'm not the only one feeling overwhelmed by life's busy schedule. This holiday season, why not give your lov |
