As a “modern” woman, it has been ingrained in me that I shouldn’t care about the idea of a wedding. And, in fact, I have spent much of my late teens and early twenties publicly denouncing any notion that I might ever tie the knot. “An ancient institution and a disgustingly expensive way to express your love,” I would say.

The truth is, although I am not sure that I could ever be that perfect, beautiful bride with the floral encrusted, 250-person wedding, I would be a liar if I said I didn’t think about what I would wear should that day ever come.

In fact, I think about it more than I'd like to admit. The first time I can remember it being an idea in my head was when Carolyn Bessette married JFK, Jr. I can remember the 1930s-style sheath, by then-unknown designer Narciso Rodriguez, splashed on the cover of magazines—I was only thirteen years old, but I thought it was so beautiful! Since then, I have loved following what celebrities wear on their wedding days. I loved Nicole Kidman’s romantic Balenciaga, Sarah Michelle Gellar’s decadent hippie Vera Wang, Gwen Stefani’s pink-stained John Galliano gown, and Tory Spelling’s Gatsby-inspired Badgley Mischka gown from her first wedding. And I chime in with advice and excitement as my own girlfriends go through the routine of buying the ideal dress for their big day.

But, as illustrated in the above paragraph, from minimalist sheaths to romantic layers of chiffon to avant-garde pools of pink taffeta, my tastes run the gamut. But what I loved about all these dresses is that they embrace and explore the style of the individual who wears it. As much as we ladies might think about what we will wear on the big day, we won’t know exactly what it will be until we’ve tried a few on and found our favorite.

Luckily for Twin Cities brides-to-be, there’s one more place to scour when you're in search of your perfect gown. On Monday, May 5, Priscilla of Boston will open its new boutique at 50th & France. The store, which originally started in Boston sixty-two years ago by Priscilla Kidder (who is best known for designing the bridesmaid's gowns for Grace Kelly's marriage to Prince Rainier of Monaco and the bridal gowns for presidential daughters Luci Johnson and Tricia Nixon), will feature four groups of dresses as well as bridesmaid and flower girl gowns and accessories.

A few weeks ago, all four of the collections to be carried at Priscilla of Boston were sent down the runway. Here are a few of the dresses I can’t wait to ogle in person.

In addition to wedding gowns from Priscilla of Boston ($3,500—$6,000), Melissa Sweet ($3,500—$7,000), Platinum ($4,000-$13,000), and Vineyard (all gowns less than $2,900), the boutique will also carry attendant dresses; some of my favorites are below.

Priscilla of Boston, 3926 W. 50th St., 952-922-2106

Although the seasonal closet switchover is one of my favorite things to do (I get a review of all of the clothes that I haven’t had the chance to wear in six months), I’ve never been one to seasonally change up my beauty routine.

The truth is, I almost completely lack a beauty routine. I wash my curly hair minimally, and the only products I slather on daily are a spritz of Fracas, a light layer of tinted moisturizer, a dab of MAC cream blush, and a swipe of Lancôme mascara. If I am really feeling up to it, I might throw on a bit of red lip-gloss. 

But although my beauty output is small, I always dream big (hence an entire small armoire filled with potions, lotions, wands, and mists), and I believe in the instant mood lift that can come from a new color of lipstick.

While I was out in stores last week, pulling merchandise to feature in my June GoodStuff spread, I became entranced by a bunch of new products. Here are a few of my all-time summer favorites and a couple currently on my wish list.

Coco Monoi Bath Oil

Minneapolis-based Thymes introduced its Beauty of Bathing Collection, and the first scent, Coco Monoi, is a softly exotic blend of white tuberose, gardenia, and Madagascar vanilla. Although spring and summer might not seem like the time to be taking long, indulgent baths, it is the busiest season for me at work (in addition to publishing our June, July, August, and September issues, we also will publish our Shops, Homes, and Wedding Guide magazines), and at the end of a long day, nothing is more relaxing than a good soak. $75, Ampersand, Galleria, Edina, 952-920-2118

Crème de Coco Hair Masque

I have complicated hair. It is naturally curly, quite dry, and prone to beaucoup frizz when the temperamental follicles meet Minnesota’s humidity. I wash it very minimally, and when I do so, it is with much care (cool water, gentle shampoos, deep conditioners). Recently, I got my hands on the new Crème de Cacao masque by Bumble and bumble. It has a mix of tropical oils, natural vegetable and fruit butters, and botanical extracts. I have been using it for two weeks, and my hair is already much softer and shinier. $24. Tres Jolie Salon, 2214 Hennepin Ave., Mpls., 612-374-2214

You Rebel Tinted Moisturizer

As stated above, my typical beauty routine is super simple, and I love anything two-in-one. I use both the You Rebel and You Rebel Lite tinted moisturizers with SPF 15 by Benefit. I use the lite formula in the winter months, but as my skin is olive-toned and easily absorbs sun, I switch to the regular formula during the summer. $28 each. Sephora, Ridgedale, 952-513-1306; Mall of America, 952-854-1517; and soon to open at Rosedale

Tarte Rejuvelash

Fellow Style Parlor contributor, Abby Van Ness, has the longest, thickest, most beautiful lashes I’ve ever seen on a woman. Mine, unfortunately, are dull, straight, short, and thin, and I have long been in search of a new mascara ever since Helena Rubinstein stopped selling in the US (her’s was my favorite). I have tried many (Lancôme, Benefit, Dior, Clinique, Fresh), and although I still haven’t settled on one, I am super excited to try Tarte’s Rejuvelash. Rujevelash is not a mascara at all; it actually works to revive lashes while treating and protecting them from brittleness and breakage. $16. Sephora, Ridgedale, 952-513-1306; Mall of America, 952-854-1517; and soon to open at Rosedale 

Creed Virgin Island Water

Last year, while researching a story on classic perfumes, I fell in love with the numbingly beautiful heady tuberose smell of Fracas. And although I am mostly faithful to it (I like having a signature scent), I often stray in the warmer months to Creed’s Virgin Island Water. The scent has notes of coconut, lime, white bergamot, hibiscus, and musk, perfect for the lighter clothes and heavier air of the warmer months. Plus, a portion of Virgin Island Water sales go to benefit charities protecting the world's oceans. $190, Cherie, 750 E. Lake St., Wayzata, 952-475-2212

I think my biggest shopping weakness is a good dress, particularly a good dress on sale. I don't even have to love it—if it's marked down and it fits me, there's a good chance I'll buy it. The other day I was standing outside Nordstrom at MOA—new dress in hand—when my boyfriend called. The conversation went something like this:

Jack: What are you doing?
Me: I'm at the mall, shopping for my mom's birthday present.
Jack: Did you buy a dress?
Me: (pause, hold up black dress bag, contemplate lying—especially since I was just complaining about paying bills) Ummm . . . how'd you know?
Jack: Every time you go to the mall, you buy a dress.

So, either my boyfriend has really good ESP, or I'm just that predictable. I do have to defend myself by saying the dress was only $49 (regularly $128). Thank you very much, White House|Black Market. (The retailer is currently having a sale on dresses—lots of which are perfect for spring parties, weddings, and showers. Just be prepared to face your boyfriend/husband/significant other after your visit.)

If you're like me, you're of the mindset that there will always be an event that requires a dress, so why not buy one while its on sale—even if you don't know when you'll wear it? And as it turns out, I'll be donning my steal-of-a-dress (shown here) at a cocktail party this weekend. A good dress always comes in handy . . . even if it has to hang in your closet (with tags intact) for a few months first.

White House|Black Market, five metro locations, including a new store at Rosedale, Roseville, 651-636-4950

As an off-the-beaten-path world traveler (rarely are we talking London or Paris . . . usually more like villages near Hanoi or the Hopi Reservation in Arizona), I’ve always had a soft spot for interesting indigenous crafts. And I love how some of the most intriguing home designs (and Twin Cities shops such as Bjorling & Grant, Great Estate Home and Garden, and Nola Home bring antiques and artifacts into the architecture and décor. But I’ll admit I was somewhat skeptical when designer and stylist Alecia Stevens first told me about the Guatemalan Textile Trunk Show over dinner back in December. Hundreds of handmade blankets and clothing items would be transformed into exquisite chairs, pillows, and works of art, she told me. I pictured the typical import-market look. Was I ever wrong!

The show, which runs Friday and Saturday at the Odegard show room in Minneapolis’s North Loop neighborhood, features chic, one-of-a-kind pieces created by top local designers Lynn Barnhouse, Carol Belz, Wendy Coggins, Tom Gunkelman, Sally Wheaton Hushcha, Marcia Morine, Gay Parker, and Mary Wozniak.

One of my favorites is a vintage glider refurbished by Gunkelman. The textiles on it were actually woven and used by women in Guatemala, most likely as cortes (traditional skirt fabric worn like a sarong). Along with other pieces in the show, it features fabrics purchased in Guatemalan cities and villages by textile artist and teacher Mary Anne Wise of Stockholm, Wisconsin. Wise and two colleagues actually purchased more than 1,000 items for use in this show.

As if that weren'€™t enough, Stephanie Odegard has designed four new rugs, including the San Mateo and San Pedro, which will be on display this weekend and available for order. Although handmade in Nepal using 100 percent Himalayan wool, the pieces take inspiration from the rich weaving heritage of the Guatemalan textiles.

San Mateo rug

San Pedro rug

And now, as if that weren't enough, the coolest of the particulars: All proceeds from the event benefit Friendship Bridge, a micro-credit and education organization that has helped 17,000 rural Guatemalan women to date.

****

Heads up: More Cool Crafts

Friends from the Twin Cities and from out of town have long been looking forward to tomorrow’s Craftstravaganza Rogue Art & Craft Sale at the State Fairgrounds in St. Paul. Instead of chic, indigenous craft, I think this is more about fun felt toys, homemade handbags, and funky screenprinted clothes. I am actually looking forward to it! If nothing else, it’s a pretty cool complement to the Odegard event.

A slew of top Twin Cities stylists, beauty consultants, and fashion experts descend on Calhoun Beach Club this Sunday for Mpls.St.Paul Magazine's Total Beauty Bash. I suggest gathering a few of your best girlfriends and arriving early. There's typically a line out the door come 11 a.m., but it's worth the wait! Some of our favorite fashion retailers, designers, spas, and salons will set up shop inside the beautiful beach club. Plus, cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, and lots of free swag!

Peruse the latest in spring fashion and accessories from Stella, il Vostro Boutique, Urban Junket, and Shorty's Loft; catch up on the newest spa or salon services available at Spot Spa Boutique, Ivy Spa Club, Rocco Altobelli, and many others; or simply relax with a cocktail while you listen to the expert speakers on stage.

Christopher "The Makeover Guy" Hopkins appears first, touting his new book Staging Your Comeback: A Complete Beauty Revival for Women Over 45. The local beauty expert and owner of reVamp! Salonspa has more than twenty years experience styling ladies in the TC and has appeared on the Oprah Winfrey Show performing his famous makeovers. Read more about Hopkins's new book in our May issue (on newsstands now) or visit his website.

Later, members from our fashion panel take the stage—including Ini Iyamba, owner of Ivy and Ivy Men + Design; Michael Pickart, co-owner of Intoto; and Hayley Bush, owner of Lula Vintage Wear—to offer style advice and tips on spring and summer trends.

Liz Anema of The Marsh, A Center for Balance and Fitness finishes things off by discussing the effects of breathing on your health and wellness.

If nothing else, Beauty Bash is a great girly event to share with the favorite ladies in your life!

Su, April 27, Open house 11 a.m.—3 p.m., Calhoun Beach Club, 2925 Dean Pkwy., Mpls.,612-927-9951

Buy tickets online.

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.

Happy Earth Day!

Celebrate with a few earth-friendly sales . . . and some chocolate!

Twin Cities Green and Re Gifts offer 20 percent off everything in store today, including home decor, clothing, accessories, and much more. Re Gifts follows up with another sale this Saturday—all eco-friendly bags and purses are marked 25 percent off. Twin Cities Green, 2405 Hennepin Ave., Mpls., 612-374-4581; Re Gifts, 1832 E. 42nd St., Mpls., 612-276-0105

Birch Clothing also recognizes Earth Day with a sale. Find 30 percent off organic cotton and bamboo towels and sheets, plus 25 percent off Dani organic soaps and lotions. 2309 W. 50th St., Mpls., 612-436-0776

And for all you chocolate lovers, Macy's goes green with the launch of organic Frango mint chocolates. Made from more than 95 percent organic ingredients and boxed in 100 percent recycled paperboard (which is printed with vegetable-based ink), these new Frangos are the perfect purchase for Earth Day. Eight metro locations, including 700 Nicollet Mall, Mpls., 612-375-5020

From romantic and billowy to sharp and tailored, see-through is a major trend of the season. The looks is part romantic, part futuristic but with a light and ethereal effect perfect for the warmer months. I report on the trend in the May issue of Mpls.St.Paul Magazine (on newsstands now), but as always, a few of my favorite items landed on the cutting room floor. So whether your look is unapologetically feminine or minimal and tailored, there's a fashion for you.

I love the slightly sheer and slouchy look of this Dries Van Noten sweater so much that I've pulled it for two different shoots. Unfortunately, it keeps landing on the cutting room floor. Navy cardigan ($615) by Dries Van Noten, from Intoto, 3105 Hennepin Ave. S., Mpls., 612-822-2414

From his famous spring collection modeled after artist Richard Prince's Nurses paintings, Marc Jacobs presents a very wearable take on the trend. Wool, cashmere, and nylon shirt in chocolate and blush ($624), by Marc Jacobs, from Macy's, 700 Nicollet Mall, Mpls., 612-375-2754

This Stella McCartney blouse has the tailored bohemian feel that I always fall for. Silk blouse ($965) by Stella McCartney, from Macy's, 700 Nicollet Mall, Mpls., 612-375-2754

Although not sheer in the traditional sense, a layer of clear beading adds depth and interest to the vintage floral print. Vintage beaded clutch ($48), from Bluebird, 3909 W. 50th St., Edina, 952-746-8675

A great shell in a slightly sparkly fabric can easily go from day (underneath a summer-weight sport coat) to night (with heels and wide-leg linen pants). Tiered tank ($167), by 3.1 Phillip Lim, from Bumbershute, 683 E. Lake St., Wayzata, 952-475-2684

All photos courtesy of Michael Hendrickson

If you check this blog regularly, you might have noticed that I have been MIA throughout the past few days. Although the calendar on my desktop says it is only mid-April, I am deeply steeped in all things summer.

This past week was filled with photo shoots for our annual June Summer Pleasures issue in which we feature the very best things to do, places to see, and items to wear during the glorious ninety-day span of warm weather. Our editors are currently steeped in exploring the best places for ice cream, great alfresco dining, where to take the family, and much more.

This year, my responsibility was to pull together the greatest summer fashions for men, women, and children to dress up these pages. So as this was my first major photo spread in which I pulled all of the clothing and compiled the outfits, so my focus was momentarily pulled away from the blog. And because of how long my shoot lasted on Wednesday, I regrettably missed Voltage (luckily, my fellow Style Parlor contributor Abby was able to make it in my place).

So what is a real fashion shoot like? Not nearly as glamorous as the ones on TV or in chick lit. But the long hours, days of schlepping, and minor problems that arise are all worth it when you see things come together to beautifully and visually illustrate a story.

Here are a few of the outtakes.

Our editorial stylist, Liz, is a major pro when it comes to the propping and styling of these shoots. Here, she tries to bribe the dog into sitting pretty.

I am behind the camera here taking a picture of our male model, Andrew. I was trying to decide on whether or not he should wear the hat on the cover shoot. We ended up shooting it both ways. 

We might have been working on the June issue, but you wouldn’t have known it by the layer of ice over Lake Harriet. Here, Andrew plays a little ditty for model Shannon as she keeps warm waiting for the shoot to start.

The June issue will hit newsstands May 26. In the meantime, pick up a copy of our April Getaways issue, which hits newsstands this Tuesday.

Meet artisans, and marvel at gorgeous handcrafted furniture and housewares at the American Craft Show, opening today and running through the weekend at RiverCentre in St. Paul. Produced by the American Craft Council, a national nonprofit organization founded in 1943, this is the largest show of its kind in the Midwest.

Word is the New York-based council has identified the Twin Cities as a key fine-craft market. In any case, it’s a fantastic opportunity to peruse and purchase high-quality works (including clothing and jewelry, too) from more than 200 artists, a few of who are from Minnesota, but most are from elsewhere in the U.S. and abroad.

Highlights from big to small:

The “Don’t Fall Down” dresser by Damian Velasquez

The Connemara chair by Robert Erickson, which is one of the products in the green category, new to the show this year

A cool kids’ table by David Levy

A textured birch vessel from Jay McDowell, also in the green category

Beautiful hand-blown Optic goblets and all-purpose glasses from the Vermont Glass Workshop

Admission is $12 and includes artist demonstrations on the show floor every day.

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:

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 . . .

Other SIGG designs are available locally at Twin Cities Green, REI, and Whole Foods Market.

Local fashion is front and center this week with the biggest event happening tomorrow night at First Ave. Tickets are still available for Voltage 2008: Fashion Amplified, the don’t-miss event of the spring season.

The best in Twin Cities fashion and music come together for a rocking runway show, all to benefit Springboard for the Arts, a program that puts funds in the hands of artists in need. Designers—such as Project Runway alum Katherine Gerdes, menswear guru Russell Bourrienne, and crowd favorites Amanda Christine, George Moskal, and Laura Fulk—send models down the catwalk while the Birthday Suits, White Light Riot, MC/VL, and other local talent provide the soundtrack.

Fellow blogger Melissa Colgan and I will be in attendance, so look for more Voltage coverage later this week! And don't forget to check out all the retail and designer events during Voltage Fashion Weekend this Thursday through Sunday. For a complete schedule, click here.

Doors open at 7 p.m. First Ave., 701 1st Ave. N., 612-338-8388

Image courtesy of mordac.org.

Twin Cities architects, designers, builders, and kitchen/bath show room owners and buyers are among the 40,000-plus attendees in Chicago starting yesterday for the 2008 Kitchen/Bath Industry Show. The centerpiece of the convention hall floor is the Design Idea Center. This is where our local design eyes will be pulling dozens of products and planning ideas we’ll soon see on sale and in projects here.

The concept this year is brilliant. Five leading home-design magazines have teamed with the National Kitchen and Bath Association to produce sets that speak to different life stages. Here’s a glimpse of what’s going on:

A kitchen for the family organizer by Better Homes and Gardens magazine. Windows don’t cut out the option for upper cabinets in this kitchen: Cupboards with frosted-glass fronts and backs let light shine through and highlight colorful glassware. Around the corner, a wall of cabinets harnesses almost everything for the busy household, including those unruly sporting goods.

A kitchen for the hostess extraordinaire by Kitchen and Bath Ideas magazine. The most beautiful feature here is a banquette with plenty of seating close to the cooking action, perfect for family members and guests to comfortably gather.

A bath for a savvy young professional by Traditional Home magazine. This bath boasts all kinds of pampering features (take a look at the luxurious freestanding whirlpool/soaking tub and the towel-warming cabinet) and fine fixtures and finishes (the mosaics and Murano glass chandelier!).

A kitchen and bath for what designers call a “future thinker” by Midwest Living magazine. The ideas here include wider traffic patterns, some low countertop heights (sit-down work spaces), and accommodating cabinet designs (see the smart cabinet storage racks you can pull toward you). The features are intended to make living easier for all—but particularly for those baby boomers out there who want to design for future life stages (put more bluntly: aging!).

A kitchen for the mother starting out by Country Home magazine. Intriguing to me is the island with a lower tier of countertop space for extra storage. (Look closely at the island. Maybe it’s for stashing cookbooks or plates and platters of food—just to keep the top countertop clear?) The low shelves just outside the kitchen are perfect for the kids’ books and games.

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.

Help a child experience history by attending a fashion event this weekend:

Local businesses join forces Saturday, April 12 to present Fashioning a Dream at St. Anthony Main's Picosa restaurant. Patrick Scully of Patrick's Cabaret emcees the event, which includes a high-spirited fashion show featuring contemporary apparel from Key North and GH2, unique jewelry from decor-Ation, and hair and makeup by Level Salon—plus, a dance interlude from Green Central School students. Appetizers, coffee, and tea are served.

Money raised from the event goes toward educational field trips and opportunities for Green Central's history students. (A recent trip to the Black Hills inspired this community effort to fund similar opportunities.)

Tickets prices are $50 and $150 (for sponsoring a child) and are available now for purchase at Key North and Level Salon.

3 to 5 p.m.
Picosa, 65 SE Main St., Mpls.

Nothing kicks the winter doldrums like an invigorating new look for spring. Refresh your makeup bag with cheery pops of color from Shu Uemura's spring 2008 Rebirth collection. Vivid, warm-weather shades, including peachy pink, warm lavender, grass-inspired green, and soft gold will brighten your look and keep you right in step with the blooming gardens of the season. Rebirth also includes a limited edition tri-color pencil (a stacked combination of cool blues and green), rich rouge lipsticks, two new Glow On blushes, nail enamel, and multi-hued mascaras. (And don't forget about Shu Uemura's fabulous faux lashes—a must-have for glam spring and summer parties!)

Browse the complete line at Ampersand now, or stop by this Saturday, April 12, when the Galleria shop partners with Shu Uemura for a special one-day event. Spend at least $30 on Shu Uemura between 1 and 5 p.m.to receive a complimentary makeup application and skin care consultation from one of the cosmetic company's experts. In addition, customers will take home a free apothecary gift bag.

Call 952-920-2118, ext. 16 to schedule an appointment!

Ampersand, Galleria, Edina

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.

Marti Markus, co-owner of Birch Clothing, recently e-mailed to tell me about the new Tinctoria scarves they'd received in store. Lightweight and organic cotton (ideal for a Minnesota spring), the sustainable accessories are hand-spun and handwoven by a women's cooperative in Thailand. Birch stocks a variety of vibrant hues, including pink, tan, blue, and green—all created with natural plant-based dyes ($36).

Sound familiar? You might have seen Tinctoria scarves featured in the latest issue of Lucky magazine:

Birch Clothing, 2309 W. 50th St., Mpls., 612-436-0776

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.

Sarah Jessica Parker’s third Bitten collection for Steve & Barry’s stores should be hitting the floor any day now. The spring/summer 2008 collection reflects a more casual version of Parker’s mix-and-match haute bohemian style—belted floral print dresses; a lightweight, two-button vest and seersucker jacket; wide-leg sailor pants; and slouchy Ts.

The collection is composed of more than 500 pieces and everything is $14.98 or less. Here are some of the highlights:

The exceptional architecture of the Twin Cities has amazed design fans such as me for years. So I shouldn’t be surprised that the American Institute of Architects is hailing a modern masterpiece right here in Deephaven as one of the winners of its 2008 Housing Awards. Designed by David Salmela and Carly Coulson of Duluth-based Salmela Architect, the home was built by (and for) custom builder Kevin Streeter of Streeter & Associates.

  The project’s progressive nature had already caught the eyes of design editors, landing on the pages of Mpls.St.Paul Magazine and Metropolitan Home last year. I particularly love how the home’s box design makes a stunning yet refreshingly simple statement. The key material palette is fairly straightforward: glass, concrete block, Glulam (glued laminated wood) beams, structural-insulated panels, and pipe. In a world where eco-friendly products are increasingly important, it’s great to see sustainable materials in the forms of a reclaimed cypress exterior wood finish and fly ash concrete block.

Inside, you can see how the simple scheme of concrete, Glulam beams, and glass plays out. Look at that connection to the outdoors—practically seamless.

I’ve personally seen a couple of the other homes on the AIA’s list of 2008 winners, and I’m familiar with a few of the other firms. This house is in good company. To read more about the home in Deep Haven and the other award winners, take a look at the list on the AIA site.

I’ll be actively hunting for more great homes and home-design shopping sources to share with you in the magazine and online very soon. I’ve been out of commission for a few days (no blog last week, I’m afraid) since slipping on the ice and falling on the side of my foot, breaking three bones in my ankle. Two hours of surgery (and a plate, screws, pins, and wire) along with some time off my feet, and I’m almost good as new. I’ll be lying low but will do my best to cover the latest on crutches!

It seems like everyday I get a press release about a new collaboration, and even I can’t keep them all straight anymore. Here is my quick rundown of the current designer collaborations either in store now or on the fashion horizon:

British Textile Designer Celia Birtwell for Express

Express is bringing Birtwell’s romantic prints (made popular in the '60s and '70s by Bianca Jagger and Twiggy) to stores for an exclusive, limited edition run. The collection, which hits select stores April 7, including Mall of America and Rosedale Center, includes 100 percent silk blouses and dresses in bold, colorful bohemian patterns ($79.50–$128). This is the first time Express has made the foray into collaboration, and from the look of the images, it could be successful as spring fashion made several references to the bohemian look of the '60s.

Rogan, Botkier, and Richard Chai all do Target

We can thank Target for staring the collaborations trend by teaming up with Mossimo in 2000. Target’s next installment for its hugely popular GO International designer collaboration line will be with Rogan Gregory of eco-friendly lines Rogan and Loomstate; the line will hit store shelves May 15. The New York City-based designer has created a collection of structured spring items—shirt dresses, shifts, linen trousers—that are all made from environmentally friendly fibers ($14.99–$44.99).

After Rogan, designer Richard Chai will launch an exclusive collection for Target. No further information has been released about the collection, which is set to launch in early August, but as an alum of both Marc by Marc Jacobs and TSE, Chai tends to put fort collections that tend toward elegant minimalism—French seams, quilting, pleats, peplums, and origami tailoring and fabrics in muted gray, white, and tan. If his Fall 2008 ready-to-wear collection (pictured) is any sign of what’s to come, expect slouchy tweed pants, shearling and fur vests and jackets, gauzy blouses, and a few pops of amethyst and persimmon.

And next on board for accessories is handbag designer Monica Botkier. The Botkier for Target collection will follow the Gryson for Target collection and will be available starting July 21. New York City-based Botkier gets inspiration from the fast-paced life of NYC women with lots of luxe leathers and on-trend hardware. I have been lusting after her gladiator satchel for months (pictured, $450).

Designers Render Gap’s White Shirt

Last year, the Gap presented collections from Thakoon, Doo.Ri, and Rodarte to create clothing based entirely on the white shirt. This year, the designers will be Philip Lim, Three As Four, Band of Outsiders, Michael Bastian, and Philip Crangi (who will actually design complimentary jewelry). The collection will hit Gap stores on April 15.

Marimekko for H&M and Manolo Blahnik

H&M is reviving some of Marimekko's most iconic looks from the '50s, '60s, and '70s for a seventy-piece collection for men, women, and children, which will launch in April. It’s all about the energy of summer. Look for pinafores, smocks, shorts, swimsuits, and bikinis all in brilliant color combinations, such as red and pink, olive and orange, red and turquoise, and black and white.

Manolo Blahnik is also translating Marimekko prints in his footwear. The popular Mini-Unikko and Bonbon patterns can be seen on stilettos and booties.The top style (the Mary Jane Slingback) is available at Neiman Marcus ($675).

Alright. Are there any other designer/retailer collaborations that I am missing?

If you're a regular in Minneapolis's Tangletown neighborhood, you might have noticed the bright tangerine-orange awning along Nicollet, nestled between Beadhive and Pink Champagne. This marks the spot of just-opened maternity consignment store, which is appropriately named Nine. Step inside the simple shop to find the same cheery orange on the walls, plus racks of maternity apparel (dresses, denim, blouses, and more), spacious fitting rooms, and an eager-to-help staff.

Rather than let their maternity wear collect dust in  basements and attics, new moms can head to Nine to collect cash for unwanted, gently used clothes. Consignors receive 40 to 50 percent of sales.

Moms-to-be who are looking to save money before their little bundles arrive can shop a range of high-end maternity wear at a fraction of its retail price.

The ever-changing labels range from 7 for All Mankind to Liz Lange for Target. Nine's owners are interested in high-end and business apparel but will consider all drop-offs in order to fill the new store.

Call 612-827-8144 or e-mail appointments@nineconsign.com to schedule a drop-off appointment.

Nine, 5456 Nicollet Ave. S., Mpls., 612-827-8144