Tuesday, March 8, 2011

Starting to love Kate Middleton...


I think we may have a winner here ladies and gentlemen...William looks to have chosen a style icon in the making.  Twenty-nine year old Kate is choosing well-tailored,  figure flattering classic styles that fit a princess to be.


Here is the lovely couple visiting Scotland. Kate is wearing a suit by the Italian designer, Luisa Spangoli. This designer was relatively unknown outside of Italy until this suit made such a splash.  Red looks great on her.




And how cute is Kate in this Burberry trench coat celebrating National Pancake Day last week in the United Kingdom.

For their engagement photo, Kate chose a designer she wears often - Issa.  The blue dress fits perfectly and compliments her blue eyes and her engagement ring that was first worn by Princess Diana.

Kate, I am starting to love your style and cannot wait to see your wedding dress on April 29.  You are setting a good example for women your age and of any age.  Nice!

Have a Violet's Day.

Monday, March 7, 2011

The Watch Collections from Ralph Lauren- Telling Time Beautifully

I am a huge fan of a beautiful watch.  This weekend I was with Mr. Bond at Polo on Michigan Ave and featured at the store, were some very beautiful watches.

The Stirrup Collection

The Slim Classique Collection 

The Sporting Collection
If you cannot make it to a Polo store, check out the whole collection at  http://www.ralphlaurenwatches.com/en/Watch.

Now, we know from the Bond movies, that James Bond likes the Omega brand of watches (and who doesn't?). But even my Mr. Bond liked the Sporting collection at Polo.  The men and womens' styles were classic and yet the perfect size....hmmmm...is it appropriate to ask for a St Patrick's Day gift I wonder?  Even if I am not Irish???

Have a Violet's Day.

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

Happy Birthday Mr. Bond - Daniel Craig

Today is Bond's birthday. 

Ok, I admit I do not know the true birthday of the fictional character James Bond..but today is Daniel Craig's 43rd birthday. 

So, here is a gift for all of us Bond fans...



I will admit to having a little movie crush on the guy - and truly, just on Daniel's portrayal of Mr. Bond.

Although Daniel is a great actor and I have enjoyed some of his other movies like The Golden Compass, it is the fantasy settings (especially in Casino Royale) and way Daniel plays Bond as more caring and romantic (than former Bond's who just wanted to keep score of the women) that I like. Of course, the man can wear a suit....and that never hurts either!

Have a Violet's Day!    

Friday, February 25, 2011

Do etiquette rules of 1924 still apply today?

In 1924, Vogue published a Book of Etiquette about how to behave appropriately in public.  I thought this was fascinating.

Some of these rules are published in Buzzfeed, http://www.buzzfeed.com/clio/vogues-book-of-etiquette-1iti?awesm=awe.sm_5FNIl&

Here is one that I wish was still common practice - because dinner SHOULD be an event when you go out and dressing up is part of the fun.   



And this article made me go...hmmmm...because I do pronounce some of these words the way Vogue says not to...but maybe it is my Midwestern upbringing?



Fascinating...

I said in an earlier blog that good manners were one of my favorite things.  I wonder what the 2011 etiquette rules would be if Vogue did a new book?  I hope many of the rules would still apply.   

Have a Violet Day! 

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Let's start swapping...clothes,accessories and shoes that is...

OK - Am I the last to know about this clever site?   http://www.swapstyle.com/

It is a HUGE site to trade things you no longer want or that no longer fit (the worst!) and find amazing replacements (many designer names)and it is easy!  It is also not limited to just clothing...but so far, that is as far as I have gone....but this site can be addicting.

You join for FREE and then you swap with woman around the world.  Currently there are about 45,000 members and the variety of items available to swap is huge!

There is a blog, a style swap link and many other features that made me try it with a pair of Calvin Klein pumps that never fit quite right. 

So have you tried this site?  Let us all know what you think about the do's and don'ts of swapping.

Have a Violet's Day.

Friday, February 18, 2011

Love to Travel - Hate to Pack?

If you are like me, you love to travel, but hate to pack.
What to bring, what to wear, how many pairs of shoes will I need, are only a few of the decisions to be made when laying everything out on the bed and hoping and praying it will all fit into my carry-on luggage.

Here is a cute website that has women travelers as its focus: http://www.pb-travel.com/home.html
Their slogan is "Cool travel accessories for the Modern Woman and her Family"

Here are a couple of purchases I have made at this site that I use all the time and think you will too.

Look at these adorable luggage tags.  I put my area code on mine. However, you can choose whatever numbers you like and look at the bright colors - very easy to spot amongst all the black suitcases.


And every woman needs a cashmere wrap for the chilly plane and airport, but mostly to use as a wrap for an evening out when you get to your final destination.  These are lovely and soft and I even went out of my comfort zone and did NOT order the black...got the violet (big surprise).  

I have been looking for a cute and inexpensive leather passport holder and got one for $10 at pd travel. 

 
It will be hard to miss the bright pink cover amongst all my black accessories - which is exactly what I wanted.

I still love to travel and hate to pack, but these accessories make it a little less painful and a lot more colorful.

Have a Violet's Day.

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

White feels right for Spring...BCBG Max Azria





Although the rest of the collection is full of vivid color and bright patterns, these white dresses from the Spring 2011 BCBG Max Azria Collection are the ones that caught my eye.  Maybe it is because I am thinking about a trip to the West Coast or Southwest in late Spring, or maybe it is because around Chicago, I have been seeing a lot of white (snow that is).

These dresses have the sheer look that will be popular for Spring and Summer and the simple lines that I like too. 

The grey wedges add a cool touch to the white. Silver accessories make the white look even fresher. 

Notice that the models are carrying small silver clutches.  These structural, hard handbags are on trend for now - but still for me, too small to be practical.

Have a Violet's Day and start thinking white....clothes that is... 

Monday, February 14, 2011

Grammys have some glam...

As awards season winds down, I look forward to my favorite Hollywood fashion event, the Oscars. But last night, I did something totally out of character for me. I actually watched part of the Grammys. 

The reason I usually do not watch is because the fashions are not my taste - too flashy, too over-the-top (and some still were) and too much!

But take a look below at Selena Gomez's J. Mendal gold gown from the event.  This girl is only 18 and knows style, what looks great on her and is not afraid to look sophisticated.  That is my type of girl.

And here was another winner, Julianne Hough, wearing a very romantic feeling dress by Maladrino.


 
The patterns and muted violet tones (I have a weakness for the color violet after all) looked lovely with her coloring and the draping of the dress was very flattering.

The Grammys fashions were very interesting...lots of  hits, and more misses, and amongst all the flash, feathers, shine and sparkle, there were women who dressed well and looked great. 

But I will say it was a fun night of entertainment - and even Lady Gaga's "egg"citing entrance was fashionable.

Have a Violet Day!

Tuesday, February 8, 2011

The Mercedes or the Landrover?

Ok, I admit it.  I like nice cars. 
Living near the city and taking the train to work everyday, I usually only need a car for weekend/vacation trips, visits back home or shopping adventures.  But this past week of snow has made me reconsider my automotive  needs and maybe it is the time to break down and buy a vehicle I have long wanted  - The Land Rover.

There were two "signs" yesterday that maybe it is time.

First, this is the tag line for the Land Rover, " Turns Snow Days Into Go Anywhere Days."  I am all for that.

I dislike being stuck anywhere because of the weather and the Land Rover is basically built to leap tall buildings in a single bound - to take on snow drifts (even on Lake Shore Blvd.) and to carry skies and boots for that weekend ski trip to Michigan or Colorado.

Second, the body style for the Land Rover is going to change in 2012 and who knows what may happen to the classic style I have always loved?  Look what happened to BMWs...need I say more?

But.....do I want practical or do I want sexy/elegant?

I think back to a test drive a friend  and I took several months ago in the Mercedes CLS.  "Infatuation quickly becomes unwavering devotion" is the tag line for this sexy car. 

And it is true....this car is sooooo sexy and sleek.  Sitting inside is like being in a cocoon of luxury and understated elegance. I can envision driving up to The Elysian and stepping out for a weekend get-away..in a great black dress, just the right shoes....with Mr. Bond of course.

Hmmmm.....Practical beauty (Land Rover) vs. understated elegance (Mercedes) .....

Can't I have both?

It is Chicago - it is winter-and so I think I will wait until Spring has sprung to make a new car decision.

Until then, it my reliable Audi ...and with the money I will save....a new pair of shoes.
A girl has to have some fun....

Have a Violet's Day.




 




     

Sunday, February 6, 2011

The Kings Speech - A great movie for Valentine's Day


Yesterday a friend and I went to see The Kings Speech.  The film, based on the true story of King George (Bertie)VI, is about commitment, friendship and love. A perfect movie for Valentine's Day. 

After the death of his father King George V, and the scandalous abdication of King Edward VIII, Bertie(Colin Firth),  who has suffered from a debilitating speech impediment all his life, is suddenly crowned King George VI of England. With his country on the brink of war and in desperate need of a leader, his wife, Elizabeth (Helena Bonham Carter), the future Queen Mother, arranges for her husband to see an eccentric speech therapist, Lionel Logue(Geoffery Rush). After a rough start, the two delve into an unorthodox course of treatment and eventually form an unbreakable bond. With the support of Logue, his family, his government and Winston Churchill, the King overcomes his stammer and delivers a radio-address that inspires his people and unites them in battle.

Nominated for 12 Academy Awards, this movie is the BEST movie I have seen in years. The costumes, setting (preWWII London), screen play and acting are superb, but the love/friendship story aspect of it is what made it so moving for me.


As Bertie struggles to find help for his speech problems, it is his wife, Elizabeth, who never gives up on him, never judges him and consistently supports him with unconditional love and acceptance. Due to their royal position, their relationship is serious, but also playful/fun; in one of the most charming scenes, Elizabeth sits on Bertie's stomach to help him with his breathing, saying "I quite enjoy this."


I will be reading The Queen Mother, by William Shawcross, to learn more about the life of this interesting woman.

The other loving relationship in the film is between The King and Logue; it shows what is possible when you believe in someone and the incredible healing power of friendship.   

And as Valentine's Day approaches, I will remember this movie and its message of what love/friendship can and should be for all of us, royal or not.

Friday, February 4, 2011

Go Red For Women Day

Today is National Go Red for Women Day in the USA. 

February is also American Heart Month (the connection is also to Valentine's Day - hearts and heart health)

Here is the link to today's Wear Red for Women focus and why it is so important for women to know the warning signs.  Heart disease is the number one killer of American men and women. http://www.goredforwomen.org/WearRedDay/

So I admit that red is not a color I usually wear, but I do have a red dress that will work for today.
This is from David Meister and I got it at Neiman Marcus online.




Since red dresses make such a statement, you cannot really wear the same one over and over and just change accessories as easily as you can with a black dress. I personally do not like to spend as much on dresses that are not black as I would on a black dress. 

So if you are looking for some less expensive alternatives to the red dress try: http://www.shopzilla.com/  Just type in "red dresses" and you will get hundreds of hits with styles and prices starting under $50 and going up into the thousands. This site accesses other sites and gives you the link.    Shown below is a Calvin Klein dress on sale on the site for $51.00



Wear Red for Women today, but do not miss the message and go to the link at the American Heart Association for the warning signs.  This is NOT just a disease for women over 50.

Have a Red Violet's Day.   

Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Happiness in a Snow Storm

"What did you do for fun when you were ten years old?"  That is the question posed on The Happiness Project website today. http://www.happiness-project.com/happiness_project/ 

I have the Happiness Project site as a permanent link on this blog and I get the daily emails to inspire and challenge me about my own happiness. 

Since Chicago is basically closed down today due to the snow storm, it got me thinking about sledding, ice skating and hot chocolate and those days, as a 10 year old kid, when the words, "SNOW DAY" meant no school and lots of fun outside. 

Here is a picture of Lake Michigan from yesterday; the part you cannot see is the lake.  The power of nature is very humbling. 




So today, I am taking a snow day too, like the millions of children and parents across the USA affected by this storm. I am going to try to do several things I did for fun when I was 10 years old and I challenge you to do the same - snow or no snow.

I have my gloves, hats, scarf, boots and coat...now just need to find a hill in the very flat Chicago area that is ready for sledding. or maybe I will go to Winnetka, IL (a northern suburb of Chicago) and go ice skating on their town rink.  Hot chocolate is provided.  Or maybe, making a snow angel will just be enough...

Have a Violet's Day today - be a 10 year old.  Share what you did with the rest of us...so we can be inspired by you.

Tuesday, February 1, 2011

Screen Actors Guild Awards- January Jones another hit

Watching the Screen Actors Guild Awards arrivals on Sunday night (with the sound down - just want to see the fashions I admit, not listen to the interviews), my girl January Jones (my best dressed pick at The Golden Globes) hit another homerun with her dress by Carolina Herrera.

   
I just thought it was elegant (I am partial to Carolina Herrera I admit), although her hair was little too harsh for the dress.  I like that January is not afraid to mix it up and play with her look, dress color and material.  Her strategy is clever; she is always talked about for the risks she takes and that is great PR for her and for her career.  Smart lady.  
 
Another look I loved for the sheer fun and girly nature of it was Angie Harmon's pink Monique Lhuillier dress.  You could tell she loved it and her simple hair and make-up with minimal jewelry was a perfect compliment to all the feathers and fluff of this dress.

Academy Awards are next...so let's see what the stars and stylists come up with for the most glamorous night in Hollywood. 

It is fun to see the fashions...frivolous and fun... it takes us away from our own closets for a while and today, it took me away from the snow storm here in Chicago.

Have a Violet's Day and make sure you have your snow shovel and warm boots.

Monday, January 31, 2011

Estate jewelry- Wear it and become part of the past....

I admit to having a thing for estate jewelry.  Maybe because I know that each piece comes with a history, a past and there is something comforting and yet intriguing about wearing something with a hidden story. 

I image the life of the lady who wore the brooch or the bracelet and the parties and events she attended wearing the pieces that I now wear.  In my mind's eye, she looks like Grace Kelly in To Catch a Thief or Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday.  And now, I am wearing what she wore as she had lunch on the front lawn of her home by the lake, entertaining guests and being the most desirable hostess around.

In Chicago,  a really fun place to shop is Lulu's at the belle kay on Lincoln Ave. http://lulusbellekay.com/cms/
The focus here is on vintage dresses and the jewelry that might go with them, but there are new things all the time to dream about and I am especially taken with the Victorian lockets and Art Deco bracelets.

You can shop online if you do not live in Chicago.

I also HIGHLY recommend the following websites for amazing pieces.  http://www.georgianjewelry.com/; 1stdibs.com and rubylane.com  

At the Georgian jewelry site, the pieces are especially stunning and there is lots of information about the various eras in jewelry design.  Look at this piece below - more than a little out of my price range, but there are hundreds of other pieces I could buy myself for Valentine's Day.



Look around your city and see what you can find locally first.  If you have a great place to share with all Violet's in the world, send me an email. 

Have a Violet's Day and try a piece of estate jewelry to add a personal touch to your business suit, winter coat or hat..or dress for a night out - make your own style unique.

Sunday, January 30, 2011

The dress that got Bond's attention

I would like to think it was just my sparkling personality, charm and wit that made my date with Jack Bond the first of what I hope will be many to come...but I think it might have been the dress.

From Net-A-Porter http://www.net-a-porter.com/

It is a James Perse dress - jersey knit and very form fitting and comfortable to wear.  Net-a-Porter had it accessorized with boots and bold jewelry but since I was trying to be softer and more feminine for the date, I just choose dangling silver earrings and high black pumps. I really see myself wearing it to work or out depending on the accessories, which in my mind, make it a great fashion investment.

Dinner went very well.  Mr. Bond was charming, engaging, sweet and very attentive the whole evening. 

The food was amazing and I cannot recommend Bistro Champagne enough.  If you live in the Chicago area, or are visiting, stop by.  The setting is charming, quiet and romantic and you should also go and see the amazing tile work in the restrooms.  http://www.bistrocampagne.com/

Mr. Bond and I will be seeing a lot more of each other, so look forward to more stories, more shopping for just the right thing to wear and hopefully lots more places around Chicago to visit and recommend.

Have a Violet's Day!

Friday, January 28, 2011

My date with Bond - it's tonight!

Date with Mr. Bond tonight...and it is it cold in Chicago today with a high temperature at freezing....so tonight, it is coat for warmth, dress for heat.

It is Bistro Champagne, http://www.bistrocampagne.com/and then drinks and jazz at The Four Seasons downtown Chicago. 

Here is Bistro Champagne...doesn't it look cozy and intimate..let's hope so..



So stay tuned...
It is time for Violet's night.

Thursday, January 27, 2011

'Tis a Gift to be Simple...

This month's Vogue magazine uses the lyrics to the "Simple Gifts," the Shaker hymn, to support the fashion/scenery in this photo shoot of Arizona Muse (perfect name for a girl from the Southwest).  Here she is in a Calvin Klein dress that I LOVE!

The long sleeves, simple tied front that can be adjusted to fit however you feel comfortable...lovely.

Here is another photo from the same shoot - dress is from net-a-porter.http://www.net-a-porter.com/


Simple and classic dresses, simple and classic lines in the architecture and amazing scenery....this photo shoot by Peter Lindberg tells a story and not only makes me want ALL the clothes, but I think I trip to the American Southwest is on my radar.

Have a Violet's Day! 

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Bond connections - he lives next to Mrs. Goldfinger

Maybe you have been wondering about my date with Bond, Jack Bond.  It is on for this weekend.  I have been out of town for business trips this last week and had to reschedule my night out with Bond.

Luckily MY Mr. Bond is as charming as James Bond in the movies and has accommodated my crazy schedule.

But this is a hilarious twist to our ongoing Bond adventure....guess who is a neighbor of MY Mr. Bond....?
Mrs. Goldfinger.  How funny is that?

I wonder what other Bond connections I will discover on our first date...?  I don't want to get too excited and expect a Bond car to be a part of the whole night or that he will wear a perfectly tailored suit (with the perfect shirt)...but I am hopeful.  A girl needs a little fantasy and dreaming after all...

Have a Violet's Day!  We all need a Mr. Bond in our lives.

Monday, January 24, 2011

All important second button - and Daniel Craig

The key to your man's shirt is the all important second button.  Why is that one button so important?
Trust me on this ladies - it is key to a Violet night.  

I admit that I love a man in a well-tailored suit, polished shoes,understated cuff links and the perfect tie, but I especially love a man in that perfect suit, polished shoes, and no tie...but only with the "right" shirt.

See Daniel Craig above...ahh.. James Bond.

In the movies and in the above still photo, did you notice how cool Daniel looks in the dark suit with the crisp white shirt that fit under the suit just so..?
Your eye noticed but your brain wondered...why does that look so great on him?

It is because of the second button.

The second button at just the proper place makes all the difference. It cannot be placed too high to make the shirt look as though it is actually missing having a necktie AND it cannot be too low, so you see too much white undershirt, or hopefully NOT, too much chest (it is NOT the 1970's afterall).

So ladies - get your man to buy for himself (really for you however) the perfect shirt with the perfect placed second button.  As my friend and famous painter Kenton Nelson says says of his painting "The Dresser", "A really well-made buttonhole is the only link between Art and Nature."  Kenton Nelson

I suggest shopping at Charles Tyrwhitt   Charles Tyrwhitt

The proper second button and a beautiful set of cuff links (that you help him pick out) after he picks out your earrings - makes for the details in a perfect Violet's Day.

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Bring on the Spring Collections


Does this dress by Oscar De La Renta just scream Spring 2011 to you? Flowers, crisp white color, classic design, old world glamour with the gloves...fresh and fun.

If you have not had the chance to look at the Spring collections (that were actually shown prior to last Fall), you can see all the major designers from New York, Paris, London, Milan etc. on the Vogue website.  SO FUN to look at what women and men will be wearing this year and choose a couple of pieces to add to the wish list for spring.

 http://www.vogue.com/collections/

If you love fashion, the Vogue site is easy to navigate and the photos are amazing, with each piece in every collection featured on its own. 

Since I just started taking riding lessons, I also HAVE to show you two wish list ensembles from Hermes.



How amazing are these from the Spring 2011 Paris show? 

The Fall 2011 shows are also posted. But if you are like me, let's just focus on Spring 2011 for now and be encouraged that winter will soon be over and these new Spring fashions will soon see the light of day and the warmth of spring.

This weekend is finally my date with Bond, so stay tuned to see what happens...I know I will.

Have a Violet's Day! 

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

What is on your "What I love" list?

Today I am in the mood for a list. 

I like lists - not all the time (especially when they are lists of things I have to do) - but I do like how simple, easy to follow and straight-forward they are, so here is today's list.

Some of these things will change tomorrow and some are on the permanent "best loved" list. 

So here is what I love today - what about you?
-Good manners
-Clothes, accessories, bags and shoes that the woman wears and that do not wear her
-Keeping things until they come back into style
-Beautiful things that are always beautiful - timeless beauty never goes out of fashion
-Long lasting gum flavor
-Ralph Lauren -  clothes, stores, handbags, advertisements...etc..GREAT MARKETING!
-Reading for pleasure and for inspiration
-Lake Michigan
-Myself (some days more than others)
-All types of mentoring and volunteering - LIFE IS ABOUT GIVING after all.... 
-Chautauqua,in upstate New York
-Chicago Architect Lucien Lagrange (more on him in future blog)
-The Deer Path Inn in Lake Forest, Illinois
-Skating in the park
-Late night chats under the covers
-Hot chocolate with lots of small marshmallows
-Saturday Night Live - only the funny episodes

Monday, January 17, 2011

Golden Globes - Dresses to dream about...

The variety of colors and styles at The Golden Globes last night were very refreshing and fun.  It seemed as if every woman who was interviewed said, " I love my dress."  And we all know that the better you like what you are wearing and the more you feel confident about your choice - the better you look automatically.  Here were my favorites.

January Jones dressed for the men at the event and for the men around the world who would be watching...but why not?  She looked beautiful in red with the simple and classic hair style (loved it), minimal make-up and red lips that exactly matched her dress. She made the most of her figure as well and showed just the right amount of skin. 

Love the simple, sleek lines of this dress and it fit her perfectly -from Calvin Klein.  Did not love the color (would love to see it in dark purple or navy blue) but thought her make-up and hair were simple and elegant, just like the dress. 

Another Calvin Klein dress that was simple, elegant and sexy too.  Simple hair, simple jewelry, simple make-up, but very elegant.  Would have loved this dress in another color, maybe yellow (on the right person) or periwinkle or navy blue.

Who were your favorites of the evening and why? 

Good news is that awards season is just starting, so lots more to see over the next two months.

Have a Violet's Day.
  

Sunday, January 16, 2011

Dressing for Mr. Bond



In preparation for my date with Mr. Bond next week, I wanted to get a couple of new things to add to what I already have.  I purchased a new winter coat in October and with this year's typical Chicago weather, it is getting exposed to the elements every day.  Brrr...

Here is the link to the coat I purchased
 http://us.burberry.com/store/coats/womenswear/wool-cashmere/wool-cashmere-funnel-neck-coat/sku-37014291002-wool-cashmere-funnel-neck-coat/
and I love it.  It is from Burberry and it was an investment.  But I wear it every day and it goes with my jeans, my suits and my evening wear.  And the Burberry logo is on the buttons...love that is is there, but not so obvious

And - it from Burberry and who does not love their new focus on modern classic clothing -I am a huge fan of their ads as well! 

http://us.burberry.com/store/

Marzy Silk-Cashmere Dress - Lauren - RalphLauren.comShopping online is really relaxing for me since I know my size and I like to look around before I buy. Also a first date right after work can be difficult to dress for...the outfit needs to go from the office to the evening with a minimal effort and so I ordered this dress from Ralph Lauren.  It is appropriate for the office with a jacket, but with a change of jewelry and shoes..I think it will be appropriate for Mr. Bond.
And IT IS ON SALE....love it!

http://www.ralphlauren.com/product/index.jsp?productId=4449256&cp=1760782.4332103&fbn=GenericColor%7CGrey&fbc=1&f=GenericColor%2FPOLO%2FGrey&parentPage=family&selectedColor=Grey

I like the fact that the dress grey also...and clingy, but not too revealing.  I say a little surprise is always sexy and yet, the dress does show a little skin with the arms.I must admit, since the dress was on sale - I got the sweater that goes with the dress. http://www.ralphlauren.com/product/index.jsp?productId=4449262&ab=crosssell_1_4449256_4449262


Marnie Cabled Long Cardigan - Lauren - RalphLauren.com
Maybe I will wear it, maybe not - depends on the weather next week.

And now to jewelry - more on that and my hair and shoes tomorrow.

Make it a Violet's Day.

Tuesday, January 11, 2011

A date with Bond

You will see a common theme in my posts - I have this thing for Bond.  You know -Bond, James Bond, 007.

Yes, in the older films and throughout the actual Bond book series, women are often little more than tokens or decorations for Bond and the various villains, but there is something elegant in the look and feeling of the films.

In the latest installments, staring Daniel Craig, the elegance of the clothes, the settings and in the details is evident and eye-catching.  The whole look of the recent films makes me want to go to the places where Bond went....and I can and so can you.

Check out this link -http://www.jamesbondlifestyle.com/

Everything from the clothes, jewelry, cars, and even a night at the various locations where Bond stayed can be yours...just go to the site and see - it is cool.  You can have the Bond dream.

But my own Bond dream is beginning - right here in Chicago.  I have a date with Bond - Jack Bond.

Stay tuned...we are going to Bistro Champaign.  Now I just need to find the perfect thing for a Bond girl to wear....

Sunday, January 9, 2011

What is your "violet's day?"

So this is me - Violet Day. I am in Chicago this month and I hope to see you around if you are in town. Look for me in my violet trench coat.

Not terribly warm in the Chicago winter, but a girl sometimes must sacrifice comfort for fashion and I want you to be able to pick me out in the crowd. By the way, all women look good in violet - so if you see a violet trench that you fancy, I would be flattered to be your twin.

Check out this site for the classic trench. http://www.londonfog.com/#/Splash

The unexpected discovery in this post is that the London Fog site features an homage to another favorite thing of mine, Mad Men.

More on that later....but don't you love it when websites tell a story?  The London Fog site does and others too I will mention in future blogs.

I love a good story, an adventure, a romance, a thriller, a tear jerker....so here is the beginning of my story.

I am on a quest like so many others (and we need that number to increase) to matter to the world, to those around me who know me, to those around me who do not know me and to those I have yet to meet.  

I am learning that staying true to my vision of what makes me happy, what gives me joy and what makes me laugh, and by seeing the beauty in the details and in the possibilities  - this is what makes a good day - a "Violet Day."  And I can make these days happen and so can you....

Through sharing my days with you and yours with me, it is my hope for all of us to share the simple gifts that make each day a gift.  Lets share our best days - details, pictures, stories and laugh and learn together.
Lets make today a Violet's (insert your name here) Day....