Recyled Runway (yes, really)
Remember years ago the woman at the Oscars who made and wore a gown of Gold American Express cards? Well, apparently this idea has really taken off with Recycle Runway, a program started by Nancy Judd in New Mexico. Nancy started using everyday items that could be recycled into art and fashion and the idea grew. Next thing you know, she’s got a runway show which has been featured in The Wall Street Journal. If you are intrigued, as I was, check her website at recyclerunway.com
Ruby Room Seattle
If you’ve been out shopping lately for yourself or your tween/teen, you can’t miss the fact that it’s expensive out there. Keeping up with trends and finding the perfect dress for an event can be challenging. Now put yourself in a situation where your teen has the “perfect date” for homecoming or prom and paying for a dress is out of the question. This is where Ruby Room comes in. This is an amazing non profit organization that provides dresses for girls in need so that they can have a formal dance experience with a great look without the great price. I love this organization and was bummed I missed their fundraiser this last September 11. Put them on your “to check out” list.
Love the Quotes
Piperlime has a great new slogan campaign. They use clever little quotes, “Step Away from the Sneakers” is an example of one of them. There is a picture of a woman with great boots on and she is smiling. I am too. I love the idea that we are dressing up a little more and making a little more effort in the process.
Book Recommendation
I’ve recently heard about a book called, The World Has Curves, by Julia Savacool. This book takes a global perspective on body image, specifically for women. Basically, it talks about the introduction of tv and media and impact it has on women. Sometimes I call fashion magazines “self esteem lowerers” (lowerer not being a real word, but you get the idea) Looking at a magazine wishing you looked like someone or something else is never an uplifting feeling. Keeping it in perspective and finding healthy role models is. Check out the book, I think it has ideas worth reading.
Writer, Actress, Mom, Rita Wilson
I’ve really enjoyed reading Rita Wilson’s monthly column in Harper’s Bazaar. Recently I read her article on being Nice. A simple concept that could sweep the nation. She talks about how being nice is underrated and about how really we all feel better when we are nicer to others. I couldn’t agree more. It’s one of the reasons I think people should dress well on a plane. When we are dressed better, we tend to treat others better. And given the challenges of air travel these days, a little could go a long way. Anyway, Rita ended her article by saying “Nice is the new black.” And I think that’s a great idea.
Designer Donald Pliner
I love Donald Pliner shoes and boots and have several pairs. They are really comfortable and with the exception of one pair that squeaks periodically, I love them. I especially love the quote I recently read from Donald Pliner himself which is, “When your feel are comfortable so is your body, mind and soul.” The next time someone tries to tell you that your shoes can be “broken in”, walk away. It’s not true. Are the comfortable from the start? If not, move along.