HOT 5 - 4/12/23
Happy Spring Hotties!
I hope you had a wonderful holiday celebrating Ramadan, Passover, Easter, or a combination. I have such fond memories of my childhood Easter celebrations! They always started with a highly anticipated shopping trip for a head-to-toe new outfit for church. That's 2-year-old me in the photo above with my grandmother in her rose garden. You can see I'm dressed to the nines in a floral smocked dress, matching fancy headband, and a cute little bag on my arm and don't I look happy about it! All these years later nothing has changed...a brand new outfit still has the power to put a big smile on my face. It's time for one!
This week's Hot 5:
1. What's Your Sign?
2. The Hot Spring Collabs
3. Hot Pick - Spring Scarves!
4. Hot Shops - The Takamichi Beauty Room
5. Thierry Mugler At The Brooklyn Museum
1. What's Your Sign?
It's no secret that I love a horoscope and anything having to do with astrology (I know it's silly but I can't help myself:) so when I saw these very pretty zodiac necklaces in vintage 14K gold I knew I had to add them to the site. Wouldn't they be a great addition to a layered necklace look? They would also make a very thoughtful and personal gift and you know what holiday is coming up! Check out your fashion horoscope for this year and consider pairing it with one of these charming Hot zodiac necklaces in your sign.
This beautiful hammered gold necklace displays an image of the ram for the zodiac sign Aries (those born from Mar. 21 to Apr. 19). The 14K gold plated brass zodiac token has inlaid cubic zirconia stones. The coin diameter is 18 mm and is a little smaller than a dime. The Hamilton gold-plated cable chain with lobster clasp is 8 1/2” long.
Aries, you're naturally bold and confident. This year, embrace your adventurous side by experimenting with daring animal prints and bright neon colors like the ones from Ganni.
This beautiful hammered gold necklace displays an image of the bull for the zodiac sign Taurus (those born from Apr. 20 to May 20). The 14K gold-plated brass zodiac token has inlaid cubic zirconia stones. The coin diameter is 18 mm and is a little smaller than a dime. The Hamilton gold-plated cable chain with lobster clasp is 8 1'/2” long.
Taurus you love comfort and luxury and this is the year to invest in high-quality feel-good fashion. Quiet luxury is the biggest trend for 2023! The brand Khaite has some perfect pieces for you!
This beautiful hammered gold necklace displays an image of the twins for the zodiac sign Gemini (those born from May 21 to June 21). The 14K gold-plated brass zodiac token has inlaid cubic zirconia stones. The coin diameter is 18 mm and is a little smaller than a dime. The Hamilton gold-plated cable chain with lobster clasp is 8 1/2” long.
Gemini, you have a dual nature and you can pull off just about any style from boho to fashion-forward. This year, embrace your inner chameleon by experimenting with styles as different as hyperfeminine and tomboy styles. Try Asos.
This beautiful hammered gold necklace displays an image of the crab for the zodiac sign Cancer (those born from June 22 to July 22). The 14K gold-plated brass zodiac token has inlaid cubic zirconia stones. The coin diameter is 18 mm and is a little smaller than a dime. The Hamilton gold-plated cable chain with lobster clasp is 8 1/2” long.
Cancers are known for their emotional depth and sensitivity. This year, express your inner feelings by wearing soft, flowing fabrics in muted, soothing colors like those found at ME+EM.
This beautiful hammered gold necklace displays an image of the lion for the zodiac sign Leo (those born from July 23 to Aug. 22). The 14K gold plated brass zodiac token has inlaid cubic zirconia stones. The coin diameter is 18 mm and is a little smaller than a dime. The Hamilton gold-plated cable chain with lobster clasp is 8 1/2” long.
Leos love attention and aren't afraid to stand out in a crowd. This year, be sure to embrace your flamboyant side by wearing bold, bright colors, graphic prints, and statement accessories. Norma Kamali has it all.
This beautiful hammered gold necklace displays an image of the virgin for the zodiac sign Virgo (those born from Aug. 23 to Sept. 22). The 14K gold plated brass zodiac token has inlaid cubic zirconia stones. The coin diameter is 18 mm and is a little smaller than a dime. The Hamilton gold-plated cable chain with lobster clasp is 8 1/2” long.
Virgos are practical and detail-oriented. Focus on building a capsule wardrobe of timeless, versatile pieces that can be worn in a variety of ways. Why not start with classic styles like trench coats, blazers, and loafers from Banana Republic?
This beautiful hammered gold necklace displays an image of the scales for the zodiac sign Libra (those born from Sept. 23 to Oct. 23). The 14K gold-plated brass zodiac token has inlaid cubic zirconia stones. The coin diameter is 18 mm and is a little smaller than a dime. The Hamilton gold-plated cable chain with lobster clasp is 8 1/2” long.
Libras have an eye for beauty and elegance. This is the year to invest in elegant, sophisticated pieces like silk blouses, tailored trousers, and vintage jewelry. Visit TheRealReal for phenomenal resale choices.
This beautiful hammered gold necklace displays an image of the scorpion for the zodiac sign Scorpio (those born from Oct. 24 to Nov. 21). The 14K gold plated brass zodiac token has inlaid cubic zirconia stones. The coin diameter is 18 mm and is a little smaller than a dime. The Hamilton gold-plated cable chain with lobster clasp is 8 1/2” long.
Scorpios are known for their intensity and mystery. Play up your dark side by experimenting with gothic or edgy styles. Black leather jackets, distressed jeans, and other pieces from the brand All Saints would work.
This beautiful hammered gold necklace displays an image of the archer for the zodiac sign Sagittarius (those born from Nov. 22 to Dec. 21). The 14K gold plated brass zodiac token has inlaid cubic zirconia stones. The coin diameter is 18 mm and is a little smaller than a dime. The Hamilton gold-plated cable chain with lobster clasp is 8 1/2” long.
Sagittarians are free-spirited and adventurous so embrace your wanderlust by incorporating global-inspired prints and patterns into your wardrobe. Choose bold, colorful textiles and statement jewelry from around the world like anything from Ulla Johnson.
This beautiful hammered gold necklace displays an image of the archer for the zodiac sign Capricorn (those born from Dec. 22 to Jan. 19). The 14K gold plated brass zodiac token has inlaid cubic zirconia stones. The coin diameter is 18 mm and is a little smaller than a dime. The Hamilton gold-plated cable chain with lobster clasp is 8 1/2” long.
Capricorns are disciplined and focused. This year, build a wardrobe that's both stylish and functional. Classic pieces like tailored blazers, crisp button-downs, and pleated skirts are always in style and can be found at Ralph Lauren.
This beautiful hammered gold necklace displays an image of the water bearer for the zodiac sign Aquarius (those born from Jan.20 to Feb. 18). The 14K gold-plated brass zodiac token has inlaid cubic zirconia stones. The coin diameter is 18 mm and is a little smaller than a dime. The Hamilton gold-plated cable chain with lobster clasp is 8 1/2” long.
Aquarians are known for their unconventional, avant-garde style. This year, push the boundaries even further by experimenting with asymmetrical silhouettes, bold prints, and unexpected accessories. Zara has you covered.
This beautiful hammered gold necklace displays an image of fish for the zodiac sign Pisces (those born from Feb. 19 to Mar. 20). The 14K gold-plated brass zodiac token has inlaid cubic zirconia stones. The coin diameter is 18 mm and is a little smaller than a dime. The Hamilton gold-plated cable chain with lobster clasp is 8 1/2” long.
Pisceans are dreamy and romantic. This year, channel your ethereal side by wearing flowing, feminine dresses and soft, delicate fabrics like silk and chiffon. Add a touch of whimsy with floral prints and delicate jewelry which can be found at Kate Spade.
2. The Hot Spring Collabs
It wouldn't be spring without some appealing new fashion collaborations! Here are 3 that I'm really excited about.
Launching April 13th, there's the fabulous collaboration between & Other Stories (one of my favorite affordable shopping destinations) and South African designer Sindiso Khumalo. I can't wait to get my hands on these gorgeous prints and colors based on African heritage, history, and natural landscape.
Next on April 15th, the Target Designer collab drops featuring Fe Noel, Rhode, and Agua Bendita. These 3 female-founded brands have created beach and poolside collections that are perfect for this summer's getaways. Best of all most pieces are under $50!
This last collaboration takes the prize for originality. Chic bag purveyor Longchamp has teamed up with Dutch company Fatboy, the design company responsible for cool and comfortable beanbag chairs. They've mashed together Fatboy's Lamzac O inflatable chair and Longchamp's Le Pliage bag for a fun and unique beach chair.
3. Hot Pick - Spring Scarves!
Spring is such a good season for scarves! They provide us with a little extra warmth when we haven't gotten to true spring temps yet and we can dip our toes into a summery color palette which gives our wardrobe just the boost it needs. We have some new scarves from our favorite vendor Lalela and as you know all purchases from the brand go to supporting arts programs in South Africa for at-risk students. The scarves feature the designs of these truly talented artists and we love supporting them.
This beautiful artwork was created by Faatimah, an infectiously optimistic young girl from the Lalela programs in Hout Bay. She was one of Lalela's first grade 1 learners and has continued to attend the program into high school. Faatimah finds comfort and joy in being creative and loves discovering new ways to express herself through art. Faatimah would like to pursue a career in design when she finishes school, we cannot wait to see what she will accomplish. 65% Cotton, 35% Silk, 39 x 78 in.
To commemorate Youth Day, the Lalela Leadership Learners conceptualized a mural that celebrates and validates all South African languages. They photographed themselves representing the beautifully diverse South African youth and created silhouettes of their heads which were juxtaposed with uniquely South African words and phrases that they use in their everyday lives.
65% Cotton, 35% Silk, 39 in. x 78 in.
This artwork was inspired by a curriculum where Lalela learners studied artist, Yayoi Kusama. Through learning color theory as well as studying shape and form, Shaun, Elton, Joan and Ethel from the townships of Hout Bay, created this magnificent piece of art.
65% Cotton, 35% Silk, 39 in. x 78 in.
Here are three additional scarf choices that you might like.
4. Hot Shops - The Takamichi Beauty Room
This sweet little shop tucked into 17th Street at Irving in Manhattan's Gramercy Park neighborhood is a real find! The lovely French proprietress Marie calls her tiny store "a contemporary cabinet of curiosities" and that's exactly what it is! Filled with unique and compelling products in the beauty and wellness sphere I promise you won't leave empty-handed. And if you can't get to this jewel box of a store in person go here and be instantly tempted.
5. Thierry Mugler At The Brooklyn Museum
I finally went to see the Thierry Mugler retrospective at the Brooklyn Museum and I loved it! Entitled Thierry Mugler: Couturissime, it features over 100 outfits from haute couture pieces to stage costumes, custom accessories, sketches, videos, images by leading fashion photographers, and spectacular installations. He was truly a fashion visionary and the show did a wonderful job of reminding us of a spectacular time in the world of fashion that continues to intrigue and influence us. Living in Paris in the 80s I was of course obsessed with Monsieur Mugler and hell-bent on buying one of his incredible jackets. When I finally was able to I promptly spilled olive oil all over the front of it at a restaurant in Barcelona and it was never the same afterward! The show's on until May 7th so see it if you can.
Terry xoxo