Considering the strong attendance figures and extensive media attention (we at Mpls.St.Paul Magazine and the ASID have been taking turns with interviews, just so no one person needs to do too many early-morning TV interviews!), it looks like this year's ASID Showcase Home is on track to become one of the most popular in the project's twelve-year history. It's no surprise to me: Renovation work by Domain Architecture & Design and Brian Stephenson Construction returned the Lake Harriet home's exterior to its original 1905 appearance—but the look inside is strikingly modern to appeal to the tastes of homeowner and advertising executive Pat Fallon. Here's a look at the exterior and the stairway wall that awaits immediately inside. The contrast is amazing but comfortable. Examples of some of Fallon's favorite ads decorate one of the walls.

Here's a look at the stair's dramatic two-story bookcase, which is backed by architectural glass. It's one of my favorite features.

The great room, designed by the Gabberts Design Studio, boasts a beautiful new "ribbon" fireplace by Heat & Glo, set into a soapstone surround. New for 2008, it will be sold at Fireside Hearth & Home. The room also boasts a custom banquette/media storage cabinet. This room was designed to the inch—it's a perfect use of space.

The kitchen opens to the great room. Savvy storage cabinets are by Valcucine, and the thick quartz-based countertops are by presenting sponsor Cambria.

Just off the kitchen is this wonderful screen porch by Letitia Little, which overlooks the street leading down to Lake Harriet. It's a little more cottagey than most of the home's rooms, but the transitional furnishings work beautifully.

One of my favorite rooms is the owner's suite, which features a barrel-vaulted ceiling inspired by Louis Kahn's Kimbell Art Museum in Fort Worth, Texas. Bonnie Birnbaum and Kimberly Herrick did the interiors.

I'd love to share more shots, but this post would just go on and on! Instead, visit the home, and see it for yourself. It's an amazing opportunity to get behind the scenes of one of the Twin Cities' most remarkable renovations. Tours run through June 15.

One of the best ways to gain insight into the design is to take an architecture/green tour. Here you'll learn more about the eco-friendly aspects of the home. Most of them can be translated to projects of any size or style. For more information, visit the 2008 Showcase Home Tour section.

If you opt to check out the house on your own, try the audio tour, which is new this year. Hosted by the home's architects, designers, and yours truly, it's a wonderful way to get the product specifics and creative insights behind this very special home. Happy touring!

Today Style Parlor salutes four women of style: Charlotte York, Samantha Jones, Miranda Hobbes, and, of course, Carrie Bradshaw. Don’t get me wrong; this isn’t just about the Sex and the City wardrobes, my dears. It’s about attitude, character, and individual flair. You don’t need a million dollar bank account to have style.

I saw the movie last night. It’s luscious. I am happy to say that it’s not overproduced. Not too in-your-face. It was a dream come true: nearly two-and-a-half hours of your favorite cable show. Though some of the designer label name-dropping and product placement could be too much for some, it’s another layer to the pop culture phenomenon. If New York City is the fifth girlfriend, designer fashions are collectively the sixth.

I encourage you to see the movie soon so you can bask in the banter that will be playing out among women across America. Though I think there will be little controversy about how it all plays out, you’ll want to be indulge in the dialogue.

Some of my observations:
—These women not only look good in their clothes, you can tell they feel good in their skin. (The characters and the actors.) Though SJP is still rail thin, the other three look very real. And really fabulous.

—All four women are great, their story lines strong. Each plays an important role in the film. I was especially pleased with what they did with Samantha.

—As a forty-something, I think the script, sets, and scenarios were very appropriate for where these characters are in this time of a woman’s life as it relates to careers, relationships, body and beauty challenges, and knowing themselves.

—I appreciated the nod to twenty-something women throughout the film, including Jennifer Hudson’s character. Not knowing how and when she would pop up in the movie, I thought Carrie was going to hire the guy in the pink pumps to be her assistant. It had good comedy potential. Thankfully the writers went with substance over silliness.

—My eyes welled up at least a half dozen times. I laughed out loud even more.

—The series reminded us to live our 20s and 30s to the fullest. Take risks. Fall on your face. In the film we see these women as the women they have become.

Will there be another movie? In my mind, they don’t need to. I drove home fulfilled. I had a sense of closure on each of them and where they would go next. But if they’ll be back, I will be, too.

P.S. One of my favorite scenes was when Carrie was packing her closet for a move. She donned some iconic outfits from the series while her pals flashed “Take” or “Toss” cards. That could have gone on for an hour in my book.

Here’s a few snaps from the pre-party last night at California Café. Plus, check back on Monday afternoon for our Party Patrol photos from this Friday’s Sex and the City event at Bellanotte.

Sex and the City posters welcomed guests to FM107's preparty at California Cafe.

California Cafe served Sex and the City-inspired food and drink (cosmo, anyone?), including mini chicken burgers complete with a similar post-it note that Burger left Carrie when he broke off their relationship.

Yours truly shows off Sexy Pink Cupcakes with chef Matthew Fogarty—frosted to look like Body Perk Nipples create by Lorie and Julia, which were featured in the 2001 Sex and the City season.

FM107's Meredith Teplity (left) and Stephanie Hanson (right) with Jeanne Mrozek and Amy Erlandson. Stephanie was celebrating her fortieth birthday.

Amy Schneider, Darci Dunston, Jennifer Pearson, and Tiffany Heider.

Leslie Jablonski in a stylish coat from Ensemble.

FM107's Julia, Meredith, Stephanie, and Margery.

In the latest merry-go-round that has come to define the collaborations of mass retailers and indie designers, Urban Outfitters teams up with Los Angeles-based Geren Lockhart of Geren Ford. Although pieces of her collection currently retail at tony NYC fashion emporiums Barneys, Bendel, and Bergdorf for $200–$550, her Hawks collection of vintage-inspired looks will go for a fraction of that price ($48–$128) at Urban Outfitters.

Lockhart’s feminine, bohemian, and eclectic aesthetic should appeal to Urban Outfitters's most loyal customers, but the hints of nautical and menswear in the collection is completely on-trend. Although for a few years  I have felt that I can no longer pull off some of UO’s more eclectic, hipster fashions (actually, I have never been able to pull off anything hipster), I still love the retailer for housewares, great layering pieces, accessories, and inspiration.

Hawks by Geren Ford sailor dress ($118)

Hawks by Geren Ford silk round neck tunic ($88)

After Geren Ford (which is in stores and online now), UO will follow up with Rapscallion by Samantha Pleet (set to hit late summer). Pleet is known for romantic dresses and flirty rompers with edgy detailing, another aesthetic that should fit in with the crowd that wants to look cool and hip but not like they're trying to look cool and hip. After Pleet, we hear that collaborations are currently being planned with Charlotte Ronson, Steven Alan, and Corpus.

Unpack your leggings, pull out your shoulder pads, and squeeze into that vintage bandage Alaïa—the official plans for the biggest fashion party of the year, Macy’s Glamorama, just hit my inbox.

Looks like an eighties theme for 2008 (last year was country) with entertainment by Cyndi Lauper and MC Hammer, a fashion show full of designer fashions—Marc Jacobs, Celine, Ports 1961, Donna Karan, and Tibi (to name a few)—, and a post-party boasting a giant video wall, Pac-Man and Donkey Kong arcade games, a Rubik’s Cube lounge, and a DJ spinning '80s tunes.

Proceeds from the event go to benefit the Children’s Cancer Research Fund.

Tickets (which range in rice from $75–$1,000 and sell out quickly) go on sale June 2 and can be purchased through the Children’s Cancer Research Fund, 952-893-9355; at the State Theatre Box Office; or through Ticketmaster, 651-989-5151.

Macy’s Glamorama 2008, F, August 15, 8 p.m. The Orpheum Theatre, 910 Hennepin Ave., Mpls. Post-party to follow at Macy’s Minneapolis flagship store

Yet another reason to shop at Galleria:

BCBG Max Azria opened its first store in the Upper Midwest at the Edina shopping center last Thursday. The California-based label (which gets its acronym moniker from "bon chic, bon genre," a French phrase meaning "good style, good attitude") makes its home inside a 4,700-square-foot space near the new Crate & Barrel. Now all the BCBG goodies we love—dresses, separates, accessories, handbags, and shoes—are on display in one stylish locale.

Founded in 1989 by French fashion guru Max Azria, the BCBG line offers innovative designer apparel—ranging from casual to evening wear—with commercial appeal and affordable price tags. Azria's ability to produce flattering fits, pretty patterns, and on-trend styles appeal to fashion-loving women of all ages.

BCBG Max Azria, Galleria, Edina, 952-922-8130

The ladies at Birch are great about keeping me in the loop when new products arrive in their south Minneapolis store. Their latest addition? The much-talked-about Brelli umbrella, a sustainable bamboo accessory with a clear, 100-percent biodegradable plastic canopy. It's cute, airy, environmentally responsible, and protects your tresses from spring and summer rains—what more do you need from an umbrella? Oh, it's affordable, too, at just $29.

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

The latest launches from local furniture design firm Blu Dot will soon hit the floor at Roam in Minneapolis and dozens of other stores around the country. I'm so looking forward to seeing everything in person, and I know many of you are too.

As I mentioned last week, local field editor and stylist Alecia Stevens got an early peek of what's in store at the International Contemporary Furniture Fair in New York, where she filed this report earlier this week:

Blu Dot is growing up. As it enters “adolescence” (it's twelve years old this year), it's expanding its horizons. After years of designing affordable and fun “hard goods” and case pieces, the company is now focusing on a fuller range of furniture, especially seen in seating and upholstery. Here's one of the standouts, the Swept sofa, which is priced at $1,799. White leather, stainless base.

I met with founder John Christakos, who told me that there were gaping holes in the collection when they put it all together—in particular, not enough seating. So they flushed out the collection to ensure furniture for every room in the house, as well as materials and colors that worked together. Like with the Garanimals coordinated clothing he grew up with, he told me. (I admitted to being stumped by the reference, giving away my age—too old for Garanimals myself, too young to have them for my children!)

The new pieces include a “more traditional” (read Florence Knoll) sofa with a tufted seat. The designers there have also produced a clever and handsome sofa that transforms into a guest bed. Here it is—it's called One Night Stand. Wonderful wool upholstery.

Who doesn’t need that? Wisely, they understand that every piece can’t have the same zeitgeist. Some must be “quiet and subtle” (look at the Timber chair— almost Shaker simplicity), some will be “bold and gutsy” (Son of a Bench in rubber-dipped steel—and made in Minnesota!). Here's the Timber chair, weighty but stackable, available in natural beech, graphite stain, or ivory lacquer for $299–$399.

Other projects? Blu Dot has entered the commercial market, has done a college dorm in Chicago, and is working on some privately owned college housing. What a great idea! I just spent the weekend at my own twenty-two-year-old’s graduation and saw his apartment in Washington, D.C. We all would have been happier had it been filled with Blu Dot furniture.

The big event here is the unveiling of the winner of the Dwell-Blu Dot competition Shawn mentioned last week. With 160 entries, the winner is . . . the “Large Lounge Chair,” designed by Minnesota’s very own Ralph Rapson. Although the architect imagined it even larger than its final form, the team at Blu Dot convinced him to scale it down for a broader market, and to make it indoor/outdoor. Blu Dot worked with Rapson on the prototype for the past several months. He hung out with our heroes, Christakos told me, referring to Saarinen, Eames, and the team at Knoll. He also said that Rapson was a gracious collaborator. What a lovely tribute for the late architect, who recently passed away at age ninety-three.

About Minneapolis? It is an easy place to work because the Blu Dot team isn't distracted by the hype of what everyone else is doing, as might be the case in New York or L.A., Christakos said.

You know, a chair has to have a certain form—it needs a place to sit, a back on which to rest, probably legs to lift us off the ground (though not necessarily—think bean bags!). My point: It has limitations. But lighting seems to have none, and thinking outside the box—or sphere, shade, etc.—is apparent today. So, leaving the Blu Dot booth, I checked out what's new from lighting manufacturers. Here are a few picks of my personal favorites. First, shimmering organic seed pods from German manufacturer Verpan.

Next, disco balls and lava lamps, also from Verpan.

Now, my personal favorite for beauty—swirling plastic and metals. Gorgeous. From an artist-driven company named Tazana.

Here's the most imaginative—from Angus Hutcheson, a Bangkok-based architect doing green design. Materials for his company, Ango, are renewable or recyclable (silk cocoons, mulberry tree bark, rattan) and are inspired by his surroundings. His work is like a giant biology lab! Wonderfully representative of a creative show.

Every couple of years, I hit the cosmetic counter and go for the “OK, let’s start over” shopping trip. It helps break my cycle of just doing the same thing over and over by filling in with a product here and product there.

Last Friday, I stopped at the Bobbi Brown counter at the downtown Macy’s with two objectives: I needed new makeup, plus, while you’re at it, do up my face for the opening night party I was attending in a few hours for our annual Showcase Home Tour party.

Besides some new shadow colors, here are the products I am most excited about (Click on the links to get more details on these products from Bobbi Brown.):

Long-wear Cream Shadow in Cement
I am typically a powder gal. But this morning I finally used the product, and I LOVE it. Though a cream, it’s matte and provides great coverage as a base layer for applying my colored shadow. Plus, I have transparent skin on my lids, and this product helps cover the veins. Don’t use your fingertips to apply. Spring for the appropriate brush. Trust me.

Eye Brightener in Light
I don’t have dark circles under my eyes, but we could all use a little boost in that department, couldn’t we? I’m told that Bobbi developed the product for her husband who wanted something to combat the dark area between is eyes and nose. It doesn’t have SPF, so it won’t sting the eyes. Note: At the cosmetic counter, the sales woman applied it with an applicator brush. I didn’t like the effect, too thick, too noticeable. I use the pad of my finger. Much better.

Bronzer Powder in Light
I’ve used this product for a few years. I still love it. This time I also bought the bronzer brush. It helps minimize the cheek streak.

Lip Color in Mauve. Always in search of the perfect color, this time I am giving Mauve a try. So far I like it with my new hair color (I went darker), and she sold me when she said it made my eyes look bluer. The mauve lip liner ruined the color, so we started over and had better results with the Run Raisin liner I already had in my purse.

Next Stop: The YSL counter for my favorite mascara Volume Effect Faux Cils in black. I bought my first tube last December ($25), which lasted until just a few weeks ago. Bonus: It has a hint of fragrance, which adds to the whole YSL experience, and it doesn’t bother my sensitive eyes.

After my mini makeover I ran into none other than The Makeover Guy himself, Christopher Hopkins. CH and I are good friends and e-mail chatter back and forth often. “Christopher what do you think?” “Honey, you look like you always do.” Once the words spilled from his mouth, I think he saw my little sad face. (That is what I love about Christopher, he’s honest.) “Oh, but you always look fabulous,” he added. Nice save. The reality is, I like a natural look. And from what I’ve been reading lately, women in our 40s should work with products that don’t make you look too made up. It’s more youthful. Fresh.

Christopher is on the road for his book tour this week, check out his blog for the juicy tidbits. Kiss, kiss, Christopher.

P.S. We had the dates incorrect in this week’s Swag for the the Trader’s Market antiques show and flea market. It’s this Saturday–Monday, May 24–26. See you there, it’s one of my favorites!

A few weeks ago, I was lucky enough to lunch with Linda Hay, official makeup artist for Victoria's Secret and Heidi Klum. While we spent much of the time talking about her long and lauded career as a makeup artist for editorial, advertorial, runway shows, and Victoria's Secret Campaigns as well as the new products from Victoria's Secret Beauty, I was most excited to pick her brain about the right way to bronze.

Being from Greek decent (thanks, Mom!) I am one of the lucky ones who tans easily. But because summer is the busiest time for me at work, I quite literally never see the light of day. But as “pale” as I might view myself (pale being the operative word as my skin is olive-toned, so I look more yellow than white), I will not go near a tanning bed. And because of an incident with some of my mom’s bronzer as a twelve-year-old, I had long ago also sworn off any painted-on sun.

So when we got to talking bronzer—Hay, a native Australian, bronzes Heidi Klum, all of the VS Angels, and sports a mean fake glow herself—, I begged to know, what her trick is? How does she make it look natural? How does she make it last? Here are Hay's key steps for getting a beautifully bronzed body sans soleil.

1. Exfoliate. Hay told me this is the key to getting even coverage. You must slough off all of your dead skin in the shower either via a gentle exfoliating scrub or even just with a loofa.

2. Use a 50/50 mix of moisturizer and self-tanner. This dilutes the concentration and also assures that your skin in moisturized, resulting in longer life of your faux tan.

3. Apply in a circular motion. This will eliminate those garish streaks. Make sure you get the tanner everywhere, except for the face.

4. Use a face-specific formula from the same brand. It is necessary to use a facial formula as it will be packed with gentler chemicals, antioxidant protection, and deep moisturizers. Finding one that’s the same brand will assure the tint of your body matches that of your face.

5. Scrub your hands clean. Products now are gradual and subtle, but if you forgo this step, you’ll end up looking like you’ve got jaundice of the hands.

6. Moisturize everyday to extend the length of your tan.

7. Repeat this process once a week in the winter and twice a week in the summer. Don’t over do it, and don’t fight nature, warns Hays. Just work with what you’ve got.

I finally tried out Linda’s suggestion last week (I had a few events on Friday night that I wanted a healthy glow for) and was surprised by how subtle and natural the results were. I started with Victoria’s Secret Gleaming Self-Tan Body Tint ($18) on my body and then applied VS Daily Glow Moisturizer ($17.50) to my face and neck. I then covered myself in moisturizer and let it sit. A few hours later, I noticed the tiniest hint of color, which helped me pull off my bright orange dress (in photo with Abby Van Ness, also sporting a great faux tan).

Victoria's Secret, thirteen metro locations, including Mall of America, 952-854-4443

What first attracted me to living in Northeast Minneapolis was not just its proximity to downtown but its hip, independent boutiques, businesses, restaurants, and cafes near the University/East Hennepin intersection. I could shop Surdyk's for wine, Pacifier for my nephew's baby apparel, and GH2 for my own closet. I could dine in an upscale setting at Fugaise, grab coffee and cake at Wilde Roast Cafe, eat the best pizza in town at Punch, and work it all off by running the nearby path along the Mississippi River.

My new neighborhood turned out to be a perfect fit—and the best part is, more great things are joining the area. Red Stag Supper Club moved in to serve delicious local and organic fare, Denny Kemp relocated his salon to a swank space nearby, and just last week, Parc Boutique (left) arrived with premium denim and oodles of cute (affordable!) dresses.

I had the chance to check out NE's newest retailer during its grand opening celebration Saturday evening. A stylish and pretty space boasting crystal chandeliers, park-themed decor, and fun California labels, Parc Boutique is sure to become a regular shopping destination for this Nordeast resident.

Owner and Minnesota native Thao Bui brings the fashionable labels she discovered while living in San Francisco back to her home state. Everything in Parc, down to the designer denim, is less than $250, yet that doesn't mean any skimping on style. Sweet summery dresses and skirts from Voom by Joy Han, Free People, and Yumi Kim; trendy tops from LA Made and Junk Food; and jeans from Genetic Denim and Level 99 line the walls or lay folded on picnic table benches. Chunky belts by Hyde and lightweight scarves from celeb favorite Love Quote are sprinkled throughout the store. Plus, racks of screen-printed tees and button-ups for male shoppers from lines such as Affliction, Monarchy, Christian Audigier, and others.

Left: Owner Thao Bui was a well-dressed hostess in this white Voom by Joy Han number ($215). Right: The perfect summer look—nautical-inspired dresses and blouses.

Menswear, including these Christian Audigier tees, occupies the back corner of Parc Boutique.

Stay tuned: Bui plans to add more designers come late summer/early fall, such as James Perse, C&C California, Rich and Skinny Jeans, Velvet, and Project E. And she's heard rumblings about another retailer (specializing in high-end clothing) filling in Denny Kemp's old space next door . . .

Parc Boutique, 328 Hennepin Ave. E., Mpls., 612-353-4966

The folks behind the Über World of Über Baby, Expecting Über Baby, and Über Outlet have something in the works for Über fashionable moms and dads. Today, sale merchandise from Arafina and Ivy (men’s and women’s) will be on the floor at the Über outlet.

The merchandise will be set up in the first bay of the shop along with items from Twill by Scott Dayton and Über's own assortment of denim—Hudson, Serfontaine, Joes, and True Religion, to name a few. We're told the pricing will be very aggressive. 

6021 Lyndale Ave. S., Mpls., 612.869.0930

It's finally warm enough to don spring dresses, skirts, and sandals, yet my warm-weather wardrobe still needs a few updates. With two store openings and lots of sales, this weekend is an ideal time to stock up on spring and summer essentials.

Covered's new Uptown location (shown, left) is now open, and owner Stacy Larson is celebrating with a grand opening party Saturday night. Save 15 percent on all merchandise, and receive a free gift with purchases more than $100. Plus, food, drink, music, and the chance to win a pair of jeans. The naturally lit space is filled with the designer denim we love at Larson's Dinkytown store, plus a larger selection of dresses, separates, tops, accessories, and footwear. May 17, 6–9 p.m. 1201 Lagoon Ave., Mpls., 612-825-1610

Also Saturday night, Northeast Minneapolis welcomes its newest retailer, Parc Boutique, with its own grand opening celebration. Guests enjoy wine, cheese, 10 percent of all purchases, and the chance to win a $250 gift certificate. Situated in a historic bank building, Thao Bui’s hip storefront boasts “park-themed” décor, complete with a picnic table, park bench, and vespa—not to mention lots of young, trendy apparel for men and women. Find Free People, LA Made, Affliction, and Junkfood, plus premium denim, belts, scarves, and other accessories. May 17, 5–7 p.m. 328 Hennepin Ave. E., Mpls., 612-353-4966

Plus, big sales at Joynoelle, Birch Clothing, Gabberts, Great Estate Home and Garden, and Arafina, and a fashion show at The Lounge. Check 'em all out here. Happy spring and happy shopping!

Some 25,000 modern design aficionados flocking to New York for the International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF) this weekend are eagerly anticipating the launch of cool new products from more than 600 designers and manufacturers. Among them are this sofa and bench (we have a sneak peek!) from Minneapolis-based BluDot, which will have an impressive presence at the cutting-edge show.

Buzz is particularly surrounding the unveiling of a lounge chair by the late architect Ralph Rapson, who actually won a design competition announced at last year's ICFF that was sponsored by BluDot and Dwell magazine.

It has been four years since I attended the show, and it's easily one of my favorites. I wish I could be there this year (the past few days I've received dozens of e-mails about press parties), but our eyes and ears on the show floor this year will be savvy Minneapolis designer and field editor Alecia Stevens. She'll report on Style Parlor right after the key press conferences and parties. Look for her inside take and photos next week.

On a related note, I just had to share a new YouTube video of a squirrel (OK, a person dressed like a squirrel) putting together a BluDot Real Good chair, which we've featured a couple of times online and in Mpls.St.Paul Magazine. It's totally corny, but hey, it includes footage of Lake Calhoun and jazzy music. Not to mention a chair that's easy to assemble. Enjoy!

Your first job out of college: You're finally in the real world, ready to take on a nine-to-five, navigate the downtown skyways, and prove yourself in your career. Exciting, transforming, and overwhelming—all at the same time.

Although I'm still a fairly recent college grad, I think I've finally adjusted to the early wakeup calls, long meetings, important deadlines, and responsibilities that come along with my "real" job—and I'm pretty sure I can find my way to (almost) anything in the Minneapolis skyway system.

I've also learned:

- That my morning alarm will go off at least three times before I peel myself out of bed.
- That coffee is a necessity (and a venti soy chai latte with espresso is a luxury).
- That it's (usually) better to be overdressed than underdressed.
- That flip-flops are not appropriate office attire.
- That working hard and achieving professional success are far more rewarding than getting a good grade in any college class.
- That life in the real world isn't half bad.

But for those college grads just starting out, Sara Rogers (left), trend specialist for Mall of America, is making the transition from sweatpants-clad coed to business-suit-wearing employee a little easier with her new "Graduate Program."

For $100, recent grads receive a two-hour personal shopping session with Rogers. She'll help with all the basics: what to wear to a first interview, how to build a work wardrobe, what's appropriate for casual Fridays, etc.

A great gift for yourself or your favorite 2008 graduate. Schedule an appointment by calling Rogers at 612-396-4729 or e-mailing sara@sararogers.com.

I can’t begin to count the number of “reusable totes” I have bought over the past few years in hopes of breaking my plastic bag habit. Some are buried in my closet, some are in the trunk of my car, others have been dropped off at Goodwill full of my castoff garments. The one place these bags never seem to be are in my hand (or purse for that matter) when I make an impromptu grocery or shopping stop.

I blame it on the fact that I have too much of a big picture personality and can’t remember minute details such as packing extra eco-friendly shopping bags into my overstuffed work tote . . . just in case.

But now, my problem might just be solved thanks to Nordstrom. Tucked neatly inside sleek metallic casing, Nordstrom’s new eco-chic collapsible tote can fit easily inside my purse so that I always have it on hand. And although other companies have come up with similar products, Nordstrom’s version has the added bonus of actually looking chic (brushed metallic linen and drawings by artist Reuben Toledo).

I, of course, have already tucked mine neatly into my Marc by Marc Jacobs satchel (also a Nordstrom find) ready to use should a spontaneous shopping stop occur.

Available starting May 19, at Nordstrom, Mall of America, 952-883-2121

I took my daughters to MOA last Friday. It wasn’t a first, but I have only been brave enough to take the twins to the “mall of all malls” a handful of times. This time I took my energetic three-year-olds without the help of a stroller. Just didn’t want to deal with the contraption. First stop: a return at J. Crew. But of course, I did a little shopping. As I sifted through the adorable summer preppy wear in the Crewcuts section (J. Crew for kids), my girls were going a little crazy trying on shoes, hiding under racks, playing with the big stuffed dogs on display. This captain had lost control of my little crew, and at that point, I just trying to have forward motion with my shopping. I was seriously trying to not sweat too much. Thankfully the store wasn’t very busy. I managed to pick up a couple of cute tanks, headbands, and T-shirts for the girls and a skirt and pair of mod capris for Mom. (The Cheddar Bunnies in my bag helped tame the beasts in the fitting room). The prices are a little steep for children’s play clothes, but they are so darn cute.

Next stop: the new Janie & Jack store. MOA marketing director, Jeff Hoke, first told me about the more refined Gymboree sister store a few years ago. He promised then it would be at MOA one day. It’s a great addition to the kid mix. The early summer collections are a little more Hamptons-inspired than I was looking for on Friday. But I’ll be back. I was actually surprised that they didn’t take the lead from Gymboree and offer a little TV and chairs. (Maybe those more refined children mind their mothers and stay by their sides.) We trotted off to nearby Gymboree, and I nabbed a couple of sundresses and sun hats (they were having a good sale that day) while the girls watched Thomas and Barney on the TV. I don’t dress our twins identically, but I do like them to coordinate (I have had other twin moms tell me they do that, too.) And Gymboree makes it a little easier with their seasonal collections.

Our main reason for visiting MOA was to get some new shoes for the girls at Nordstrom, but since I had bribed them with a few rides in the Nickelodeon-themed park, I needed to pony up. We took a spin on the carousel (a good option if you need to chaperon two kids under forty-two inches since I could stand between two of the horses), plus the girls qualified to ride the semi-truck-themed ride (thirty-six inches, no chaperon necessary). We followed with lunch under the skylight ceilings in the park area, and we popped into a nearby photo booth to commemorate our girlie play date.

I think I overstayed my welcome because shortly after purchasing the toddler sandals, the signs of the naptime-witching hour were upon us. One melted down and needed to be carried from Nordstrom to the lot outside Bloomingdale’s. The other also wanted to be carried, which wasn’t going to be possible for this mom. So we had to have a little sideline negotiation. And then I did the unthinkable—I broke out two pacifiers in my emergency stash side pocket. Me, the mom that can’t believe Kate Hudson’s son, Ryder, still has pacifiers in his mouth. Perhaps the paparazzi grabbed that shot on the one day Kate shopped a little too long and cut into naptime.

Shoes at Nordstrom, $78. Summer wardrobe additions, $400. Ride at MOA, $20 pass. Lunch in sunny courtyard, $19. Photo booth, $5. Shopping with my daughters, priceless.

One of downtown Stillwater's best-kept secrets is a charming storefront called Local Color on Main. Carrying an eclectic, ever-growing collection of accessories, apparel, home décor, gifts, stationery, and even baby items, it's a worthwhile stop on your next trip to the river city.

Founded in 2005, Local Color reopened earlier this year in a larger storefront (just down the street from its original) where owner Mary Kovar and daughter Bethany are slowly adding lines to the bohemian-chic mix. The most recent additions include London-based clothing label Mina, a favorite among British celebs, such as Sienna Miller, Kylie Minogue, and Kiera Knightly, but new to the U.S. market. Pretty tops (such as this Kimono-style chiffon blouse, left) and cute, colorful dresses are priced for less than $130.

Also new is the store's shipment of embroidered purses by Laga Designs. Handmade by women survivors of the Tsunami, the bags provide income for women and families who have lost their livelihood ($70–150). And behind each bag's name is a meaning: The bag at left is the Pulih (which means Recover) and at right is the Damai (which means peace).

Local Color, 312 S. Main St., Stillwater, 651-351-0558

As a reporter of local retail, one of the least favorite parts of my job is having to share the news that a local retail gem is closing up shop, especially when it is a unique store broadening the retail landscape of the  Twin Cities.

Such is the case with Clutch Boutique. Lori Cheadle’s chic shop recognized that truly fashionable women didn’t need a bag emblazoned with the logo Gucci, Fendi, or Prada—what they needed was a handbag that was well constructed and as unique as the individual toting it.

For the past few years, Cheadle has lined her airy 50th & France shop with handbags from lesser-known designers, such as Hayden-Harnett, Lauren Scherr, Jamah, and Katherine Kwei as well as jewelry from Danish designer Dyrberg/Kern and handbags from local designer Laura Nelle.

Although I have featured a number of Cheadle’s handbags in the magazine, I had never purchased a bag from her store for myself. I attribute this mostly to the price point—for me, if I am going to spend $500 on a handbag, I must be able to use it seamlessly in my day-to-day life, and I never found one that I could justify. But I have purchased jewelry from Clutch, and the two Dyrberg/Kern rings I have I wear almost daily (and have been complimented on them more times than I can count).

As we rev up again to bring your our annual Shops magazine, I start thinking again about how important local retail is to the life of our community. Retail can help freshen up little neighborhoods and encourage foot traffic to places seemingly off the beaten path.

Lori Cheadle told me she doesn’t know what she will do next (she has been in retail most of her adult life) but in the meantime is selling everything in her shop—jewelry and handbags, of course, but also her furniture—marble-topped tables and cozy brown velvet settees. Right now, the inventory is market at 30 percent off, and Cheadle hopes to be out by the end of the month.

On the bright side, if you’re an accessories fiend like me, you won’t have to wait long for another accouterment-devoted shop to open in the area. The gals behind Bluebird Boutique are opening a new store, Ladyslipper Boutique. Although they still haven’t settled on which designer lines they will be carrying (we are told we’ll know once they come back from market), we can expect a carryover of some of the great vintage pieces available at Bluebird as well as shoes and contemporary accessories.

Clutch Boutique, closing the end of May, 5005 France Ave. S., Mpls., 612-455-0606
Ladyslipper Boutique, opening August 1, 4940 France Ave. S., Edina

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!

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

In what Women's Wear Daily declared as one of the oddest pairings in fashion history, luxury retailer Barneys New York will introduce Rogan for Target GO International at Barney's Madison Ave. flagship on Friday, May 8, and then at Barneys Los Angeles store on May 16 (as we reported a month or so back, the eco-friendly Rogan for Target collection will not be available in Target stores or online until May 18).

This partnership celebrates Barneys and Target's shared appreciation of Rogan Gregory's leadership in the eco-friendly design movement. Although Barneys has carried Rogan Gregory's primary collection—trousers for $230, dresses for $320, and anoraks for $450—for a few years, this is Target's first foray into eco-friendly fashion.

If you've never caught an episode of Style network's Split Ends, here's the gist:

Two experienced hair stylists from opposite backgrounds switch places and take a position in each other's salons for one week. Drama, conflict, and good TV are sure to ensue.

To be honest, I've never seen the show, but my semi-addiction to reality TV and the fact that one of our upscale Twin Cities salons is featured will have me in front of the tube this Saturday evening.

Shauna Raisch, master stylist and owner of Wayzata's Twiggs Salonspa, recently boarded a plane from the Twin Cities to Goodyear, Arizona to work at Melissa & Co. Salon for the taping of the show. Split Ends will spotlight her experience (and that of Melissa & Co. stylist Crisanna Conrad at Twiggs) in a one-hour reality show.

In addition to opening Twiggs in 2002, Shauna, a third generation stylist, boasts a long resume including everything from styling at fashion industry events—such as New York and LA Fashion Weeks—to earning one of three U.S. spots on the World Championship Hairdressing Team. Watch Shauna work her magic Saturday at 7 p.m.  

Twiggs Salonspa, 785 E. Lake St., Wayzata, 952-258-0200

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.

Whenever I am bored or feeling a need to be inspired, I always head over to Anthropologie. And it’s for good reason. The luxe, eclectic, hippie way in which the store is merchandised and the always inventive and artistic clothing and housewares never disappoint and always enthuse a new way to put together disparate items—a geometric pillow on a floral couch, a polka dot skirt with a vintage print shirt.

However, I will admit that I haven’t always seen Anthropologie as a place for inspiration. The first few times I set foot in one of the stores, I always left confused and empty-handed because I couldn’t seem to wrap my head around the way things were laid out; it seemed to me more like a beautiful magazine spread than a traditional store. But after a few repeated attempts (I loved the look, so I knew there had to be something in there for me), I finally left with my first purchase—a sweet floral sundress and striped, cropped cardigan.

My initial trepidation toward Anthropologie would have been shorter lived had I seen an in-store fashion show like I did on Wednesday night. The managers and staff at the 50th & France location took time and care in editing down the store's selections, so customers could see the way the clothes looked on real-life women.

I, unfortunately, left the store without a purchase, but that was more due to the mass of people in line for the dressing rooms than for any lack of inspiration. Here are a few of my favorite looks from the show.

Lilium Hybrid Dress by Le Shack, $258.00.

Enija Lotus Dress by Moulinette Soeurs, $158.00.

Etched Ivory Mini by Weston Wear, $168.00.

Keyhole nape Windowpane Shift, $148.00.

All of these and more at Anthropologie, 4999 France Ave. S., Mpls., 612-285-9164; The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes, 763-416-1447

Located above downtown Minneapolis's CorePower Yoga, in a naturally lit industrial space, 501F1T is the newest gym to hit the Twin Cities. I stopped in on Thursday evening for the open house celebration and to tour the 8,000-square-foot club. Exposed brick walls, citron-green accents, and large windows act as a backdrop to state-of-the art fitness equipment— much of it custom-designed by founder and fitness director Phil Martens.

Having more than ten years of fitness training under his belt, Martens sought to combine all of his favorite gym equipment into one compact machine. He invented and designed the G-Werx Gym, which is used in 501's unique strength training classes. Featuring a patented "Flexchange System," the G-Werx uses dumbbells as resistance for machine exercise. The combination of free weights and machine offers more than 100 ways to tone and strengthen your entire body.

Other 501F1T amenities include: a fully stocked free weight room, rows of cardio equipment, tidy locker rooms, showers, towel service, massage therapy, nutritional consultations, and more.

While large enough (and open enough) to avoid feeling cramped, 501 is intimate enough to allow for fellow gym members to know you by name. And for many city dwellers, it will be a welcome alternative to the large-scale chain gyms that dot the metro.

Give it a try: New visitors can try a week's worth of classes for only $5.01. Call 612-767-4415 or email info@501FIT.com for more information.

501F1T, 501 S. Washington Ave., Mpls., 612-767-4415

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.

As you plan your weekend, consider stopping by the shop at the Walker Saturday afternoon. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the museum store plays host to a Local Jewelry Artist Mart. More than a dozen Twin Cities craftspeople display their work for this one-day event, with materials ranging from sterling silver and semi-precious stones to reclaimed metal and recycled typewriter pieces.

I'm loving these eco-friendly pieces—a repurposed Cityscape Bracelet by Danny Saathoff and contemporary Onyx Gnot Earrings by Felicia Parsons.

Walker Art Center, 1750 Hennepin Ave., Mpls., 612-375-7600

I was supposed to be saving up to go on a shopping spree at the Bryn Mawr garage sale, but because I recently had to buy a car and emptied out my back account, I want to make sure that you get the dish on the famous BM garage sale as well as on other great places to get a spring time steal this weekend.

Interior designer Susan Hoffman is cleaning out her P.O.S.H (property of Susan Hoffman) Warehouse this weekend with a blowout sale. P.O.S.H. is filled with unique furniture, art, home accessories, and gifts all handpicked by Hoffman. Twenty-five percent off retail price of lamps, home accessories, and art. All furniture is thirty-five percent off retail price. Plus, look for red clearance signs for additional markdowns and the not-so-Posh discounts are for seventy-five percent off retail. May 3, 10 a.m—4 p.m.; May 4, noon—4 p.m., 2800 Campus Dr., Ste. 180, Plymouth, 763-383-1221

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Hundreds of bargain shoppers will descend upon Bryn Mawr this weekend for the Minneapolis neighborhood’s annual garage sale. The best merchandise can be found at the beginning of the weekend while many of the sellers are wiped clean by Sunday. Start at Penn Ave. and Cedar Lake Rd. Shoppers start showing up around 7 a.m. on Saturday.

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Shayne Barsness of Style Minneapolis is also having a weekend sale. Barsness scours the Twin Cities curbsides, flea markets, and estate sales for interesting pieces, which she reupholsters and refinishes in mostly black and white. In addition to furniture, find decorative down pillows, crystal vases, silver candlesticks, and fabulous frames. May 2 and 3, 10 a.m.—6 p.m. 1016 W. 27th St. Mpls., 612-377-3331

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Happy Shopping!

There has been a lot of buzz about eco-friendly clothing lately. Green apparel has certainly come a long way since the days of scratchy hemp and bland, hippieish ensembles. Soft organic cottons, natural bamboo fabrics, and more green-focused designer options mean that fashion followers no longer have to sacrifice style for sustainability.

If you want to hop on this green trend (and see what your fellow eco-minded Twin Citians have to offer), check out the seventh annual Living Green Expo this weekend at the State Fairgrounds. In addition to local chefs, architects, vendors, and community leaders, fashion designers and green retailers are making their mark at this year's event with an Eco-Fashion Show Saturday at 1:30 p.m. and a Second Runway show at 8 p.m.

Hosted by Mark Wheat of The Current, the Eco-Fashion Show features models donning bamboo, hemp, organic, and recycled clothing from local green retailers, including Birch Clothing, Naturally Bamboo Clothing, Patagonia, Wildrose Farms, Goodwill, My Green Closet, and Ten Thousand Villages.

Goodwill/Easter Seals follows up with the Second Runway fashion show later that evening. View more than fifty looks by local designers—reworked and styled from garments found at Goodwill stores. (Shown here: a multicolored tank dress created by Andrea Vargo.) Stick around for food, live music, and the chance to purchase designs from the runway.

And just announced: Project Runway alum and local fashion designer Katherine Gerdes (who impressed the crowd at Voltage earlier this month with her organic bamboo, dip-dyed gowns) will co-host the Second Runway event with Alexis Walsko of Lola Red PR. Buy tickets online. 

Grandstand Bldg., State Fairgrounds, St. Paul