Prada Does Fantasy

Prada can be a little too 'out there' (not too mention extremely expensive) for my liking, but I still admire the continued imagination and innovation behind the Italian label.

When I perused their website I expected a bit of the unexpected, however I didn't forsee this!

The spring/summer 08 fantasy look book is exactly that: fantasy.

Rather than the usual shots of models donning the outfits against white backgrounds, there are random images of nature and jolts of colour mixed into the clothes in a Dali-esque collage. The photos are totally imaginative and a little sci-fi too - such amazing inspiration!

Check out these other stunning shots I pulled from the look book:

 

Meet Trashy

Today is Earth Day!  To honour the occasion, here is a Canadian product that makes going green super easy and dare I say, even kind of stylish!

Trashy handles all your waste and recycling needs in one compact sleek-looking unit - great for those who don't have built in receptacles in their own kitchens.

(1) The top lid slides away for recyclables and compost materials in removable containers

(2) a side drawer holds regular trash destined for the landfill

(4) a lower drawer stores bags

 

the floating (3) is the quality:

Built my Metrik Studio, Trashy is made from the highest quality materials, including formaldehyde-free MDF board.

It's  finished in catalyzed laquer, which is available in three colours including persimmon, avocado and leather soles. 

 

Trashy is not cheap -$875 for the large unit and $225 for the small unit -but it's built to last.

It doubles as a compact kitchen island that supports up to 90 pounds and it's goof- proof and kid-proof with rolling castors that lock into place.

The cheaper trashy is a smaller simpler unit made from wheatboard that is ready to be painted.

 

Trashy can be customized to match different kitchen styles and includes great add-on features, such as a butcher block top. (I love the idea of sliding food scraps right into the green bin! )

You can also finish it in wood veneer, add on a towel bar,  choose a chalkboard front , pick raised castors to elevate the height, and it's even available as an in-cabinet unit!

 

Check out www.gettrashy.com to see for yourself!

Motorcycle Mama

How fierce is this Cashmere motorcycle jacket by 3.1 phillip lim?

Retailing for $585, the punky biker silhouette forgoes the usual black leather and is madeover in a preppy navy cashmere knit.

This jacket can work in so many ways. Whether paired with a basic T and tailoured jeans or topping a spring dress on a cool night- the look is smart and not too done.

Bonus: the gold hardware on the navy background ties into the whole nautical trend too!

Patent Pieces to Love

Super shiny and super glam, patent is becoming increasingly popular for those who are looking to pack an extra punch of glam in their design schemes. Beale Lana's Kips Bay showhouse featured several patent-pieces and Nicky Hilton's black patent headboard (above) is quite the showstopper!

Below are some of my fave patent pieces from 1st Dibs:

1930s CURVED TOP CHAIR RE-UPHOLSTERED IN BLACK PATENT LEATHER, $4,600

Pair of French Louis XVI Style Black Lacquer and Red Patent Leather Chairs, $6,800

 

Chippendale-style settee upholstered in white faux patent leather with black piping by Duane Modern, Price n/a

Rococo /Louis XV style carved French side chair upholstered in a shiny black faux Patent Leather with nailheads, $1,790

Set Of Six Baker Cinnabar And Black Patent Leather Side Chairs
 circa 1980, $8, 400

French Louis XVI style chair and ottoman with new white patent leather upholstery with double welt detailing, $8,500

 

1940s Cannel & Chaffin Lounge Chair Reupholstered in Kneedler-Fauchere black patent fabric, $3,530

 

Patent Red Leather Time Life 1950s Eames Chair, $3,300

Beauty is My Business: Philosophy Body Wash

I think a shower isn't complete without some deliciously scented product to lift my spirits and wake me up. Whether it be a shampoo or a body wash, it can be hard to find just the right fragrant product that doesn't overdose on chemical-sweetness.

That's why I'm a fan of philosophy's shower gel and bubble bath. The 3-in-1 formula is a cleanser and conditioner for your body and hair, with lovely scents to choose from.

I can't attest to its ability to clean hair (I only use shampoo for colour-treated hair), but it is my favourite designer body wash by far. The lather is thick and creamy and the wash leaves skin incredibly touchable and smooth.

(Image from Sam Duffy, still life stylist)

The inventive scents indulge decadent cravings - from coconut frosting to birthday cake - and clever kits that package flavours together in amusing themes make for great gifts!

Not all scents are for everyone -for instance I loved the orangey mimosa flavour, but my sister said it made her gag - but the wide variety of scents makes it fun to search and sniff for your favourite flavour.