As Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching, a holiday I now only celebrate with my kids, I wanted to bring back the romance of the the day with this feature. Jane Winchester has been in the accessories business for decades, and has now launched her own brand of jewels inspired by the gypsy coins of the 1900s. The reason for this inspiration, is that she sought out to create pieces with meaning, pieces that last a lifetime. Each amulet Jane creates symbolizes positivity, strength, hope and luck, to be worn daily as a constant reminder. Jane is passionate about her product, and making sure that each piece expresses the important, personal milestones in her customer’s life. It’s a true feel good gift!
Read moreBlack Iris - By Women For Women
Well, the day has finally arrived! The day I have dreamt of since childhood, unsure if it would actually become a reality. Let this be a reminder to all of you, that dreams do come true, if you work hard enough and execute your ideas. Never give up, and always move forward.
Black Iris, the new DTC womenswear collection founded by me, Aly Gradone, Chloe Rosenberg, and Rachel Wexler launched today! The excitement we all feel is tremendous beyond words. The Spring/Summer ‘19 collection is filled with romantic, whimsical, feminine dresses and sets meant to be coveted, lasting pieces in your wardrobe. We call our customer "The Lady," elegant and sophisticated, with a modern sensibility. All of YOU are our lady.
The site is live now, and you can pre-order at http://shopblackiris.com. We are also thrilled to announce we have partnered with ShopBAZAAR and Moda Operandi for the launch of our initial collection. We look forward to seeing all of you in these very special, limited edition garments, and would love to see how you style and personalize them. Please tag us @thisisblackiris on Instagram, so we can share your beauty with the world!
Read moreQuo - Scientific Fit Gear
As you all know I am sweating puddles over at Tracy Anderson on a daily basis, and sitting in that sweat for about 2 hours through classes. I always thought that cotton was the most breathable material to wear during my workouts, however I was sorely mistaken. After a long and informative interview with the very inspirational, Stacey Hunter, founder of Quo Active Gear, I learned that the undergarments I’d been wearing cause bacteria which lead to infection. Although it’s not the most glamorous topic, the truth is when we sit in our sweat for extended periods of time, women are prone to yeast infections and urinary tract infections, both incredibly painful and undesirable. Quo undergarments are made with science in mind, ensuring that even if we sweat for a long time, the underwear absorbs the wetness, decreasing the chance of bacteria forming. I wear them everyday, and I can attest to them being life-changing. Quo is also coming out with a full line of athleisure in the same amazing fabric very soon!
Read moreLele Sadoughi - Bedazzled
My favorite gift for the holidays are Lele Sadoughi headbands! I wear mine everyday, and it makes my outfit complete. Whether it’s a good hair day, or a bad one, I pop on a jeweled headband and instantly look put together and cohesive. Lele is incredibly creative, always having fun with bold, bright colors, and fun materials to make her costume jewelry. Her signature floral earrings are a staple in my jewelry box, and they are so light, I hardly feel like I’m wearing anything. I’m excited for her new collection of home decor and sunglasses, as whatever she designs is always very happy and beautiful.
Read moreMichelle Waugh - The Modern Woman
I’ve been in outerwear my entire life. It was my family business for generations, and I worked right here in the garment district where our offices were located almost every summer of my childhood. I definitely know a good coat when I see one, and Michelle Waugh has mastered her craft. Michelle’s outerwear collection is elevated and chic, tailored and classic. She has coats fit for every occasion, but what’s even more special about her line is that all of her pieces can be worn both casually and formally. They are versatile. Her fabrics and fits are stellar, making women feel beautiful and confident throughout their day. Her palette is neutral, and complement any outfit. Michelle happens to be one of the sweetest, most genuine women I’ve met, and her talent makes her a triple threat!
Read moreBA&SH - Nolita Store Opening
Last week, I was lucky enough to reunite with all of my closest girlfriends at BA&SH Nolita for an evening of shopping and cocktails. This womenswear collection, originating in Paris, now has stores rapidly popping up all over the US. It started with two best friends who wanted to make beautiful things, and they are doing just that, with the most stunning jeweled sweaters, chiffon dresses, and fitted jackets. What’s even better, is that the line is accessible, although I’m still trying to figure out how they make such high quality product at an affordable price. Everything in the store is geared for friends shopping together and having a fun experience, right down to the photo booth in the dressing room! The store itself is beautiful, open, airy and inviting, so I suggest everyone go for a visit to try out this new, innovative shopping experience.
Read morePosh - Children’s Ready to Wear
When dressing my girls, I tend to search for clothing similar to my own. I have daughters, so naturally we like to dress up and look pretty, particularly for special occasions and holidays. The best one-stop-shop for all children’s ready-to-wear is Posh boutique in Brooklyn, just over the Bridge. I go there before a vacation, and select an entire wardrobe for both of my girls, that I know we will all love. They carry all of the most unique designers from around the world, particularly European collections you cannot find any place else. Posh also provides personal shopping and will send out pieces on consignment if you are too busy to visit the store.
Read morePerfect Moment - Beach Sport
Everyone knows I love to workout. Getting dressed for Tracy Anderson every morning means I need a ton of workout gear, because let’s be honest, looking cute is half the battle! Over the years, I’ve realized that I tend to wear more swimwear to the gym, because it’s all made with spandex, and has a lot of give. Additionally, if any of you have seen the pool of sweat surrounding me after my workouts, you’d understand why swimsuits are my preferred attire! Perfect Moment is a swimwear line that is so sporty looking, I can easily pass it off as gym clothes. They have amazing one-pieces I can wear both in the ocean and on the dance floor. Their fit is perfect, and the quality of their fabrics makes the line truly unique. Now, my kids can match me in their new mini collection of rash guards, swimsuits and sweatsuits.
Read moreMonica & Andy - When the Kids Invade Surf Lodge
Sunday funday was spent at the beach pit of the Surf Lodge in Montauk, where I hosted friends and family for a day of children’s activations and delicious mini bites. Monica & Andy put together a great roster of activities including DJ lessons, making customized hand painted jackets, building sand castles, and face painting. The kids snacked on mini lobster rolls, chicken fingers, crudités, mini grilled cheese, and fresh little spoon smoothies packed with healthy ingredients. Monica & Andy had a booth filled with the cutest printed onesies, dresses and pajama sets, my favorite being the banana leaf print! Everyone enjoyed mingling and the kids had a fun-filled day, which is really what Sundays are all about! A win win!
Read moreArmarium - Join the Armi
Buying an evening gown, or any dress, for that matter, for a very special occasion, pains me, because I end up spending a fortune on a look I’ll only wear once, that then, retires to my closet. I hate to be wasteful, so thankfully Armarium, founded by Trisha Gregory and Alexandra Lind Rose, is a company that allows me to wear beautiful, current collections for a night, for a fraction of the price, to be returned the following day. Trisha has had relationships with all of the top designers, as she has worked in the industry for years, and has curated the best selection of designer pieces for her showroom. This summer, she spread her wings to the east end and has opened her first pop-up shop in Southampton, located at 28C Jobs Lane to make it accessible for all of us attending the numerous events and parties in the Hamptons.
Read moreLove Shack Fancy - Beach Chic
A new store has hit the town of Sag Harbor, with its magical old-world aesthetic, and vintage finds. Love Shack Fancy, a women’s wear brand founded by one of my best friends, Rebecca Hessel Cohen, has opened up shop, and everyone has taken notice. She has brought her signature floral, shabby chic style to the beach, and mixed it with an eclectic assortment of accessories, including handmade dolls, beach totes, pillows, throws, and vintage clothing. Rebecca, a former stylist, knows how to put a look together better than anyone I know, and her store is the ultimate proof of that talent. I’ve watched her build this brand from scratch, and seeing her dream come to fruition with the opening of this beautiful shop has made me so proud. If you haven’t already been, it is a must-see while in the Hamptons. Her dresses reflect the laid back, boho vibes of Sag Harbor, so this shack is truly in it’s element.
WEBSITE: http://loveshackfancy.com ADDRESS: 17 Main Street in Sag Harbor, New York.
Read moreGoop MKT Sag Harbor - General Store
Sag Harbor is probably my favorite town in the Hamptons because it still has all of its original bones, and it’s located on the water. We have been spending even more time there recently because my girls love to watch the boats and grab an ice cream, and I love its new great addition, goop MRKT, located across from the marina.
goop Sag Harbor opened Memorial Day Weekend and has since become my one-stop-shop for all my natural beauty needs, with everything from Tata Harper and Rahua, to Organic Pharmacy and Dr Sturm. I basically do not need to go any place else for products.
They also sell some of my favorite dress designers for minis, like Lindsey Berns, and have amazing beach pieces for me, like the black Marysia jumper, that you can see in the photos above!
The goop Sag Harbor space is stocked with some the best selection of home decor pieces, particularly their tablescape items, like the napkins and glassware.
You can also find a selection of Hamptons-specific handbags from Prada, a summer-inspired fashion closet from Saks, and goop's own line of apparel, G. Label.
The store is open daily from 10am - 6pm until September 3. You can find it at 4 Bay Street, Sag Harbor, NY.
Millie & Noah - Quality and Craftsmanship
WEBSITE: http://millieandnoah.com EMAIL: jen@millieandnoah.com
Jen Tran, founder of jewelry line, Millie & Noah http://millieandnoah.com, named after her children, contacted me around Mother’s Day. She was so lovely and kind when she connected with me on Instagram, I immediately knew I would adore her. Jen isn’t only sweet, but overwhelmingly generous and inspiring. I really admire women who have passion and take true pride in what they create, and Jen’s jewelry is a labor of love. Jen asked that she connect with my daughters to make an extra special, custom ring for me to present on Mother’s Day. Each of my girls was to design a band, working closely with her from start to finish, so they understand the process of a real craftsman. She sent them art kits with instructions, and even documented the process in a beautiful scrapbook for me, outlining my girl’s hard work and design. As a special surprise for my daughters, Jen made each of them a necklace with miniature versions of my ring to wear and remember what they made for their Mama! It’s the most special gift I’ve ever received, and such an incredible hands-on learning experience for my children.
Read moreHappy Isles Salon - A Dress For Every Occasion
WEBSITE: thehappyisles.com | EMAIL: hello@thehappyisles.com | INSTAGRAM: @happyisles_salon
We all know I have an affinity for vintage. I am obsessed with puffed sleeves, intricate laces, and gold lame! What’s really special about vintage finds is that they are done with a craftsmanship we rarely see in current times. I love knowing that when I wear my vintage dresses, I won’t have to worry about seeing someone else in the same outfit. There is also something whimsical and important about statement pieces, and the best ones can be found at Happy Isles Salon. This incredibly well-curated shop, is about the experience. You go and select from a wide assortment of dresses, jewels and accessories and play the best dress-up imaginable. It’s like being a kid in a candy store, for a vintage lover like myself. You leave the salon with a complete look, head to toe, with pieces that will never go out of style.
Read moreSincerely Jewelry - Sign Here
SINCERELY: Email: info@sincerelyjewelry.com
When I heard the story behind this jewelry collection, I was moved! Romy, the founder and designer, had lost her Dad, and wanted to give her Mother something special, signifying her Father, to hold close to her heart. She designed a gold necklace with his signature on it, and her company was born. It doesn’t get more personalized and unique than this gift, as everyone’s handwriting is quite different, and also holds so much of a person's character. For Mother’s Day, my girls wrote out the words “Gaga,” “Mama,” “Sister, Sister,” and “BFF.” We are now taking orders online to customize necklaces with these phrases as a collaboration with Sincerely (in your children’s handwriting) and we cannot wait to see them on everyone! To order your own custom necklace, visit this link. Use code MAMATATA at checkout to received 10% off your order.
Read moreHelena Quinn - Lampin’
Helena Quinn: Email: info@helena-quinn.com Instagram: @helena_quinn
Every year, on Mother’s Day, for as long as I can remember, my mother wanted a robe! She was in love with silk robes, and wore them every evening after a long day of work. I remember when we were little, Tata and I used to shop at all of the lingerie stores in our neighborhood searching for the perfect one, back when brick & mortar was still the primary mode for shopping! Now, it’s a lot easier, and the woman who does it best is Helena Quinn! Her robes are like works of art, something to feel great in at home, or even wear out with jeans during the day. Her prints are very special, and now she does custom monogramming, as well. Her “Mama” robes really spoke to me, when I saw them online, and it was the perfect Mother’s Day gift for my Mama, and we also added one to our cart for Tata!
Read moreGive Back With Style
STATE BAGS: Email: Jacq@statebags.com, Instagram: @jacqtate, website: https://www.statebags.com/
I am constantly on the run when in NYC, whether I am going to school drop-offs and pickups, getting to the gym, or racing to shoot features. I’m always looking for a big bag to store all of my various outfits for the day, one that is not only practical, but also attractive. STATE bags came out with a brilliant collection of backpacks and fanny packs, lined with the map of New York (so I’ll never get lost) that are so chic and functional, I wanted the entire line! My favorite piece by far is the floral backpack, because I am yearning for those spring blooms to pop up in this city and wearing it just makes me happy. They also carry some higher-end leather backpacks that I’m crazy about, so make sure to look for those as well.
Read moreThe Mom Organizer
FEM : website: www.fembyfem.com; email: nuria@fembyfem.com, roberta@fembyfem.com
We all know that great diaper bags are few and far between. However, Nuria De La Fuente has changed the game, in her newest collection of totes, clutches and flap bags. FEM bags are the most functional and chic bags you can buy, made by mothers who understand the need to look great while staying well organized. The clutch also serves as a changing pad for babies, which couldn’t be more brilliant! The flap bag is compartmentalized and comes in beautiful neutral tones, all hand crafted in Italy, and made at a price that is reasonable. Even if you’re not a mom, you probably want one of these to go to the gym or the office. The simplistic design and great sturdy materials and hardware make these bags high in demand. Looking forward to seeing them around the city on your strollers!
Read moreMonrow
MONROW: Email: michelle@monrow.com, megan@monrow.com, Website: https://www.monrow.com/
When I think of L.A., this company is at the forefront of my mind. Monrow, the super chic, comfortable, simple, leisurewear line, was hatched by Michelle Wenke and Megan George in L.A. and their aesthetic is very in sync with the lifestyle and environment around them. Their clothing is my go-to for when I’m on the road with my girls, and want to be comfortable, yet look put-together and cohesive. Their sweatpants and sweaters are tailored, not frumpy, and actually allow you to feel attractive in your mommy gear! They’ve recently launched Monrow Mini, Monrow Men, and Monrow Classics, expanding their brand organically to appease all of their customers. I love twinning with my girls in their patterned hoodies and sweatpants. I was really inspired by Michelle and all of her hard work to create a brand from the ground up while being a mom. Not only does she have Monrow, but she recently founded Tribe West, a beautiful collection of baby mats/yoga mats in a variety of prints and colors. With all of the unattractive, bright, baby mats out there, these are majorly refreshing!
Read moreMAMA-OF-THE-MOMENT: El Shane, stylist and fashion blogger
Describe yourself in 3 words..
Eternal Optimist, Colorful Explosion, Dance Party
How has your daughter influenced your career?
My daughter, Sunday, has completely redefined my view of success. As a fashion stylist and fashion blogger, I used to be so hard on myself for any single day that went by where I didn't work or bill hours-- but now I look at this career I created for myself as the biggest blessing of all. I get to live the life I dreamed of as a successful working mother, AND as a mother who gets countless hours of bonding time during the week with my baby when I'm not on a job. I feel complete.
Where do you like to shop for your daughter?
True to my personal style, I fill Sunday's closet with unique pieces from travels abroad, like African wax print harem pants from South Africa and woven rompers from Mexico. Cat & Jack by Target is my everyday go-to, and for special occasions, I love Rock Your Baby, The Ice Cream Castles, and Stella McCartney Kids.
How do you carve out time for yourself and how do you like to spend this time?
I try to book a few hours a week where I'm not working and not with my baby. Those hours are basically planned to the minute...jumping from pilates to the nail salon to a boutique with not a second to spare!! And I recently realized the power of ordering an in-home masseuse on a weeknight after Sunday goes to bed. Major plus!
How has having a baby influenced your style?
I'm a separates girl-- primarily skirts and tops, so having a baby threw my style for a curve ball. All those music classes and gym classes where we sit cross-legged on the floor left me grabbing for harem pants and midi skirts instead of the minis I was always used to. I also shop for more cottons and washable fabrics now, since Sunday has sticky snack fingers at all times!
What is your best advice for a new mama?
Don't compare yourself or your baby to anyone else. I had actually never held a baby before my own-- so you could imagine how little I knew about anything. Over the course of a few months, everything started to make perfect sense. I'm really happy and confident about the mom I was always meant to be.
What is your most memorable family vacation?
Family vacations have certainly taken a turn since Sunday was born! There's a lot less fabulous European getaways, and a lot more long weekends at kid-friendly resorts. I can honestly say these new baby-friendly trips are the most fun of all. Recently my husband, Sunday, labradoodle named Homer, and I spent a long weekend at Terranea Resort in Southern California. We kept Sunday up past her bedtime every night and had a blast!
Favorite family weekend activity?
Family Date Night... every Friday night at 5:30pm. There's a lot of laughs, a lot of mess, and lots of wine for mama and daddy!
Top 3 favorite designers?
This is impossibly tough. Today it's Gucci, R13, and Chanel.
What is your favorite part of your job as a stylist?
I love seeing my commercials on television. A lot of blood, sweat, and tears go into costuming global commercial campaigns-- all for those glorious 30 seconds of screen time that half the country fast forwards through anyway! Sigh.
What lessons or values do you hope to impart to your daughter?
I hope to teach Sunday about the power of a confident, independent woman. It's something that both my mother, and my first boss and mentor, Diane von Furstenberg, taught me. I live my life by that strength.