Design Hive

I was recently introduced to this new Boston/Cambridge design project called Design Hive - where local designers go to show their new designs.

It runs from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays through Dec. 20. at the Maria L. Baldwin School, 28 Sacramento St., Cambridge. For details visit www.designhivemarket.com.

And check out the article from Boston.com for more information on the brainchild of it all!

Creating a buzz for new styles

When Val Fox was in New York last year, she loved frequenting the designers markets that adorn city blocks from SoHo to Brooklyn. She especially relished finding one-of-a-kind pieces from aspiring fashion designers.

"It was just much more interesting than going into H&M and picking out something that everyone else is already wearing," said Fox, 39, an e-commerce marketing consultant from Cambridge. "I know Bostonians would love to have markets like these and we really don't have any, at least not any that are exclusively about fashion and design."

So Fox took matters into her own hands. She dialed up local design schools, including the Massachusetts College of Art & Design and the Rhode Island School of Design, and she invited them to help her create a designers market that would transcend the typical shopping experience.

The result is Design Hive, a showcase for aspiring and established designers from all over New England. Held at the Baldwin School in Cambridge every Saturday through Dec. 20, the bazaar will feature DJs and more than 40 vendors selling one-of-kind wares, including modern and vintage clothing, handbags and accessories, jewelry, housewares, and pottery.

"It's not a craft market by any means. About 80 percent of the merchandise is clothing and jewelry that is fashion-forward and edgy," Fox said. "At the same time, it's very grassroots, democratic and accessible."

Her blueprint for the Design Hive was based on The Market, a wildly successful designers' market in the Nolita neighborhood of Manhattan. Every Saturday since September 2002, The Market has transformed a local gym into a colorful bazaar where talented, yet-to-be discovered designers showcase their latest styles.

"The Market is held in a gym, the Design Hive is in a school cafeteria, so it'll have a similar feel to it," Fox said. "We'll feature about 100 different designers spread over the eight Saturdays that are either unknown or little known. It's really a platform for people who are just getting started in the world of design."

Fox sees it as a great opportunity to catch a rising star early in their career - sort of like seeing U2 at the Paradise before they started selling out arenas. "You could discover the next Luella Bartley or Anya Hindmarch," Fox said. "And you could be among the first to check out their styles before they get picked up and go big box on us."

By KATE M. JACKSON

Ten Pounds Lighter

I know, I know, the instant cure, you've heard it before. Unfortunately besides diet and exercise there is little one can do....but!!! Dressing for your shape and size is always the first step in appearing thinner and with the shape you want. You've all heard the adage wear the size you are, not the size you want to be - i know that can be difficult especially when you finally can squeeze into your high school jeans etc. Why do I bring this up? A colleague reminded that I need to get her the name of my secret weapon, and I can't believe I haven't written about it yet.

You may have heard it mentioned on Oprah and an array of women's magazines about the perfect bra -- thinking that you have to go to NYC like every other fashion necessity...but alas no more, head over to Copley Plaza (if you're in Boston) and make an appointment (857) 277-7887 or look it up when you are in Atlanta, Chicago, NYC, Miami and Houston. The name of the store is Intimacy and they are the "Bra Fit Specialists" which is very important especially as 80% of women are wearing the wrong size bra!

Wearing the right size bra can seriously change the shape of your entire torso, for the better. And we're not talking about Victoria Secret fittings, or even Nordstrom -- it is not for the faint of heart. These women will completely bring you out of your comfort zone prodding and peering at women's vulnerable assets...but in the end they will find a bra that no only makes you look better but relieves the pressure and will keep your assets perkier longer.

I will warn you, that the price tag is a bit heftier than the average bra you'll find, but the results are truly worth it. You'll look and feel better in everything you wear.

Because I'm Worth It...And So Are You

The concept of spa days, massages, facials etc. is one of endless curiosity to me -- even the mention of the words creates a wafting overflow of indulgence, frivolity and privilege. And it is true, these things are above the things we need certainly, but when I think of the latest tech gadget or even bracelet or item of clothing that we buy on a whim it doesn't seem more or less of an indulgence. In fact, you are indulging in an item with the highest ROI -- yourself! Even in this tough economic climate where people are cutting back on some of the more frivolous items, many of the beauty services are still holding on, perhaps even because of the tough times, as a way to alleviate the lacking confidence in America and in themselves etc. The Boston Globe wrote a great piece on what people will give up to keep their beauty indulgences and it had me thinking what I'd given up or gone without.

I often swap out services and wait too long to get my hair touched up, but when I succumb to the earthly pleasure of a luxurious facial or massage I wonder that same thing almost without fail -- Why Am I Not Doing This More Often? Why Am I Not Investing In Myself? There are a multitude of answers and while mostly it does come down to $$$ it also is a lot of work, time and energy, no matter how good the end result. But it IS worth it in the long run. And sometimes it just takes time to remember that.

And I'm a firm believer that everyone should have this experience. While you can make do with the DIY type grooming of manicures and pedicures, the simple indulgence of reminding yourself you're worth it, is worth the associated price tag. For this reason I'm always thrilled when Spa week comes around, for $50 you can check out amazing services at the best Spas in town for a fraction of the cost and rejuvenate. I headed to Bella Sante on Newbury Street for the Golden Veil Facial -- complete with Frankincense and Myrrh. Aside from feeling a bit like the three wise men by the time I headed out...I also felt absolutely wonderful! And again reprimanded myself for not indulging just a bit more often (and feeling a tad bad about not reminding friends of the Muse to check out Spa Week for themselves) Then as I was leaving I was given another gift by the wise men -- Bella Sante has extended Spa Week for the Month of October -- Oh Joy!!! So go and rejoice in your wonderful, beautiful life and forget about the crummy economy for say, an hour....

Sigerson if you Please

Hooray!!! Target's new line by Sigerson Morrison does not disappoint. The collection is filled with the qualities we've come to know and love by the designer, like simple embellishments that give a rocker edge to a delicate flat. Now you can have SM for a fraction of the price. I hear it is already selling out everywhere, so grab'em up before its too late!!!

How to Have Style

Isaac Mizrahi although kooky is pretty genius or maybe because he is kooky is genius...He brought style to the masses with his simple collection for Target and now has published the book "How to Have Style." While I have not read it yet, I did read an excerpt and am already sold! He stresses that you should always dress as if you have a crush -- I love it!! because it is so true -- when i think back to high school or college and the countless crushes I had, I'm reminded of the way I dressed when I knew there was a possibility of their presence. [sigh] Now I work with 80 chicks and sadly have no crush in my daily routine, but the trick is to his statement is the as if -- Give yourself the subtle mind trick needed to put that extra effort into your choices in the morning and who knows, you may just end up having a little crush on yourself!

Bloody Fantastic

Edgy, trendy, and channeling Kate Moss are not the words I typically use when thinking about fashion, and especially not when thinking of splurges, but that is one more thing that makes the introduction of Top Shop so bloody fantastic!

Although it has been around since the 60's, the United States has only recently been introduced to the brand with the opening of the New York flagship store last year. But now all can enjoy the edgy trends with the launch of the Website.

With funky, up-to-the-minute lines such as the eponymous collection by Kate Moss, and at affordable prices, everyone can now enjoy some of the UK rocker edge.

I'm lusting after a wool blazer that hasn't come out yet, but here are a few other pieces that make a statement without developing multiple personalities...

Channel the 60's with this tartan taffeta blouse pair with "smart" cigarette pants and ballet flats.

I love this pencil skirt with the perfect ruffle accent capitalizing on a hot trend, the zipper in the back makes this one vixen-worthy.

And the belt, oh the belt...Because you can, and should...

This and much more, go on, get down with your bad self.

Emmy's Fashion

I have to admit that for the first time in probably my adult life, not only did I not watch the Emmy's I didn't even know they were on! I was however, eating up the fashion reviews this morning on the news and online...The Today Show said that Ms. Lauren Conrad's dress (that she designed) lacked the same Charisma she did, ouch! I love it the claws are out...

Another interesting point the commentator made was that fear of misstepping caused many of the starlets to go on the safe side with simple and strapless old glamour. There were few glaring faux pas that I noticed from the coverage today, but maybe I missed something.

My favorites were Olivia Wilde, she looked regal and beautiful, Christina Applegate daring and bold with an "I am woman hear me roar" attitude, and Kyra Sedgewick for her vixen, Jessica Rabbit ensemble...

You almost have to remind yourself that they have an entire team helping them look that good!!

Falling for Boots

As the temps cool my mind heats up thinking of soft cashmere, delicious sweaters with billowing necks, tweeds and the return of boots! to name a few...

A friend recently inquired (OK not sooo recently but work has been busy) what boots to invest in this fall. So I looked around and am happy to report classic is still classic! ha, and when you are spending a good chunk of money this is a very good thing!

Of course we'd all love to spend innumerable amounts of money on the newest Dior Jazz boot but you can find a solid, well-made classic for far less. My favorites are Cole Haan and Coach for well-made, classic styles...I've had a pair since 2004 from Coach and they could easily pass for this season.

What to Look For: a slightly rounded toe, medium heel (or stiletto if you're brave), luxe leather or suede with detailing but keep it subtle. Of course, riding boots are not only practical but timeless, and as much as I resisted the ankle boot is turning into a staying trend, so if you're brave go for it!!!

Times Are Tough

Maybe I just feel the need to make excuses for my lack of writing, but I will echo what many already know...Times are tough!

It seems that in addition to college loans and home foreclosures the "maybe-recession" has hit the department stores!!! Aghhhh. While it may have been a good thing for my wallet to go without, it has been a little bit more difficult for my sanity and for this blog.

So, I've decided to talk about where you can find good deals still (and they aren't always where you think).

Let's start with J. Crew -- Used to be I'd get excited just thinking about a trip to the outlets, for many reasons, but the J. Crew outlet in particular has long been a fan fave --until recently. Gone are days when I scored a cashmere sweater for $30!!! Now it is Hello $90 pants! WHAT? Even if I love the item and would pay full price in the store, don't insult me by putting that price tag in a J. Crew outlet. It is a matter of principle, but I just won't do it.

Now, what is interesting is if you head to an actual J. Crew store at the right time (which was about 2 weeks ago) and you could score a great linen blazer for $35 over 75% off! but don't be fooled into thinking the prices are the same everywhere, I've seen to frequently higher prices online or in differing stores. Moral of the story, shop around. (Or better yet, let me do it for you).

And this is a great time to do it with the change from summer to fall clothes in the stores. As you've probably heard before, it is smart to buy clothes at the end of the season on sale to put away -- but when your mouth begins to salivate (as mine does) for the mix of chunky knits and fall tweeds it can be hard to see ahead -- not to mention how will you even know what will be in style a whole year from now!! Well, these are respectable worries, but buying a few classic pieces could pay dividends next year or even this winter. Don't get me started on the Burberry cashmere coat Sister Muse 2 got at the outlet in Freeport for $200!!!! BTW, for those heading to Maine for a last summer hurrah -- make sure to hit up the outlets, Burberry has now turned into a clearance house and some of the prices are out of this world!! After you work up an appetite, head to Harraseeket Lunch & Lobster for some delish food and views of Maine that can't be beat!

OK I clearly digress, because Lobster doesn't really go with the "times are tough theme" -- but with all the money you're saving....

My point is to be creative -- First off, look to your wardrobe, what do you have that can be re-purposed? What do you need to create a fresh new look? Then shop around. Look for sales...I have a friend that swears by eBay for jeans! I definitely think for jewelry, bags and sunglasses its a go! Go to the nearest ritzy suburb and look in consignment shops where the desperate housewives bring their lightly worn belongings...

And as I always say, mix and match, high and low = no one will ever know!! So don't forget JC Penney, Target, and the long forgotten Gap!!!

With my upcoming posts, I'll be sure to report deals and steals and what to invest in when watching your wallet. With summer ending and fall approaching there will be all sorts of fun shopping to be had!!!

What I'm Loving Now: The Jumpsuit

I've been searching for a reasonably priced jumpsuit that doesn't look trashy or risque and surprisingly even though they are sprinkling the red-carpets they are few and far between in actual stores. While I'm not expecting J. Crew to bust out with a black catsuit, was sort of hoping someplace would have a moderately priced jumpsuit.

This isn't the first time I've wanted something that has been hard to find, I've been searching for years for a pair of sleek leather pants a la Gwyneth on Oprah years ago. And no, the jean style that was in at the Gap doesn't count. Anyway, it has made me realized the gap between what we see in the magazines, runways, and on our favorite stars and what we can find in stores is large. And the more a trend hits mass-retail the better chance we the consumers have of finding the trend that can fit our needs.

Now I'll admit that my love of the jumpsuit came back to me full-force after seeing Carrie at her engagement party with a fierce strapless black jumpsuit dripping in gold jewels and roaring belt, but it wasn't the first time. There is something so sexy and kick-ass about a jumpsuit, so Studio 54 meets Catwoman and I love it!

The Muse would be ever so grateful to someone that can help her obtain the long awaited jumpsuit or leather pants!!!