D Moms

There’s an art to good wrist adornment. Of course a simple, sculptural cuff is always a win (I’m a fan of Julie Cohn’s gorgeous Fan Coral cuff), but there’s just something about a well-executed stack that feels really fun and chic for summer.

But well-executed is key friends. The days of the pile it on, more is more “arm party” are over. Really you’re shooting for three or four pieces max (including a watch) and perhaps a little sleek metal and earthy materials mix. Beyond that, you’re trusting your intuition…or shamelessly copying those who have mastered it.

If you choose to opt for the latter, I would highly recommend lifting the expert stack action above happening on designer Lauren Renfrow’s wrist. (That’s my plan.) And to ensure we get it just right, I asked Lauren to give us a breakdown.

Here’s what’s happening on her arm (from left):

1. Henri Bendel “Screw You Baby” cuff
2. Michael Kors Chronograph watch (similar style)
3. Henri Bendel “Downtown ID” bracelet (Lauren is a big fan of Henri Bendel’s sturdy and affordable bangles and cuffs)
4. Suzana Gordon wood bead and tassel bracelet

(The contents of my bag in all its hoarder splendor.)

Last week I shared the contents of my bag with the lovely Raya over on Shop Talk. As she and I were mid “dump” of said bag’s contents, I couldn’t help thinking:

Damn! I carry around a lot of flippin’ stuff!!

You’d think this fact wouldn’t have come as such a surprise, given the fact that it’s my bag and my stuff and I’m carrying it around every day. You’d think that I would already be aware of my Sherpa tendencies (an apple? a tube of toothpaste? a book about manners?!). And, yet, I would have previously described myself as a someone who travels light, a minimalist even… Oh misguided me.

And then when I was putting everything back together again I realized that it wasn’t so delusional after all. It seems my arsenal of pouches was responsible for creating this illusion of order. In fact, things were so tidy and orderly and, yes, minimal, that I made Raya take a second photo. An after if you will.

Behold.

Yep that little trio of pouches is holding all of the flotsam and jetsam (and toothpaste) shown in the original photo, and, in the process, making me far more sane. Suffice to say, I would highly recommend getting on the pouch bandwagon stat.

Here’s the lowdown on my three pouch superstars above, from top:

1. Gaia pouch – Paula Minnis’ bags are handmade by women in need in Dallas, using vintage, repurposed, or sustainable materials. I stash my own business cards in this one. Right now I carry three (!) one for D Home, one for D Moms, and a personal card.
2. Clare Vivier leopard print wallet clutch – I’m obsessed with LA-based designer Clare Vivier’s clutches. I use them to corral everything from coins to cosmetics. This particular one holds all the business cards I collect when I’m out and about on interviews and checking out shops.
3. Barbara Wiggins cracked metallic flat case. I scored this beauty on a trip to New York last year. I use it for my makeup, and it makes me happy every time I look at it.

Friends, I’m not gonna lie, my closet situation has gone from bad to worse now that the weather is warming up. I’m about to call in the big guns for some help (more on that later), but in the meantime, I’m going to attempt to soak up some sartorial inspiration courtesy of PR maven and mom, Kelle Jackson. Between running around town to meet with clients and chasing after her 3-year old son, here’s what the expecting mom (her second child is due in August) is shopping for right now.

1. Isabel Marant, The Carol Studded Leather Sandals — These are the perfect way to accessorize a baby bump, comfortable but stylish.
2. Vita Fede, Black Onyx Mini Titan Stone Bracelet – I would wear this alone for understated effect or layered for full impact.
3. Hatch Collection, The Jumper – A preggo mommy must-have that’s easily dressed up or down.
4. ABC Carpet & Home, Color Reform Rug – I’m in full-blown nursery decorating mode and dreaming of a hot pink over overdyed rug.
5. Celine, Hamptons Aviator Sunglasses – I’m looking forward to many more sunny days in these beauties.

(Embrace early morning and late afternoon outdoor play, as the sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.)

By Dr. Kate Naumes, ND

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Are you confused about which sunscreen is the best for you and your family? Have questions about the dangers of too much sun exposure? When it comes to trying to protect yourself from the sun, it’s easy to go crazy.

Many products carry confusing claims or contain ingredients that could pose health risks. The FDA has just recently updated the rules for sunscreen labeling, however its standards are still weak compared to Europe and other parts of the world. In the mistaken belief that sunscreen alone will protect them from skin cancer risks, many people fail to seek shade and cover up in protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses.

Continue reading "Dr. Kate Naumes, ND Helps Demystify Sun Protection"

Exhale’s Core Fusion program, described as a “heart-pumping, soul-seeking, energy-inducing fitness program,” is celebrating its 10th birthday with FusionFest this Wednesday, May 22. The day-long event at Exhale Mind Body Spa in the Hotel Palomar will feature complimentary Core Fusion classes, lite bites, goodie bags, and giveaways… and it may just be the thing to push me past the exercise block I seem to have been stuck behind for, well, my entire life.

I’m especially intrigued by Exhale’s Core Fusion Barre class and its focus on creating, “chiseled abs, toned legs, cut arms, and a high, lifted butt.” The part about “pushing yourself to the limit,” however, scares the bejesus out of me. I’m not gonna lie.

But with 40 knocking at my door, I need to get over my fear once and for all… FusionFest here I come?