~ Heavens to Gidget: Swimsuits ~

One week from today I will be basking {more like reflecting} on the beach in Mexico. I've got a feeling these waters aren't as spandex-optional as the Mediterranean ones I'm accustomed to, so I decided to browse suits at one of my most beloved/despised shops of all time: Anthropologie.

You'd think that minoring in anthropology in college would garner me some sort of clout with these people... but it doesn't, I'm afraid. And this is where the "despise" part of the relationship comes in. The cost to take a dip in one of these babies? Anywhere from $170 to $370 for a one-piece, and $75 to $138 per bikini piece. Per PIECE, man!!!

And then the love part sneaks up on me. Aren't these just smashing swim suits? So colorful, imaginative and exciting {by traditional suit standards, anyway} that I'd even dare to call them "swimming costumes", as they say in Britain.

I doubt I'll reconcile my conflicted feelings for this marvelous/infuriating shop anytime soon, but in the meantime it's inspired me to try to fashion my own affordable and fun "swimming costume". I'll let you know how it goes.

These rants and raves also remind me that it's not always what you wear when you hit the beach, but rather how you wear it. See below for some of my favorite beach bums rocking it in whatever.

~ Grace Kelly ~

~ Karin {mother in law} ~

~ Goldie Hawn ~

~ Joanne {aunt} ~

~ Brigitte Bardot ~

~ Jani {mom} ~

~ Anne Bancroft ~

~ Architecture & Space : Elke Kramer, Fall 2011 ~

Despite the fact that this model looks like she has a serious case of jet-lag/boyfriend angst/dehydration, the ensembles are fantastic, including the jewelry by designer Elke.

Photos are from a W Magazine article here. Elke's website, featuring her jewelry from last season, is also pretty sweet. Here are a few images!

~ Through Vintage-Colored Glasses: Palm Springs ~

Alex and I are flying to Palm Springs tonight for the weekend. When I get excited about visiting my parents in the desert, it's mostly because I miss them and can't wait to hang out (we're really good at having lots of fun doing nothing whatsoever). It's also because I will always imagine Palm Springs like this:















What are your perceptions of and experiences in Palm Springs? Browse more throw-back treats here...

~ The Getaway ~

I'm going to Mexico for the first time with Alex's family in March, and I'm pretty stoked about it. I spotted this shoot of Stella Tennant in the February issue of W, and I'm hoping the graceful shapes, funky prints and gutsy pops of color will influence my packing (and perhaps pre-travel sewing ventures?)...







Hay más photos aquí!