A Fresh Take on IKAT

Over the years I have seen Ikat spring up every few years and it's usually been done in the same vein: a mid to large print on a shift cotton dress or on a pair of pegged ankle length pants.

To me, the best designing involves tweaking a pre-existing idea to make it new, fresh and interesting. Otherwise, really, what is the point?

So the three items pictured peaked my interest. A mixed media printed skirt (2 different prints/panels of prints) on flowing silk chiffon. A pair of printed skinny jeans. Lastly, an Ikat printed rug.

One definitely won't look dated wearing or displaying any of these items! They're so fresh and new!

2 Panel Printed Skirt: "Bent Stripes Asymetric Skirt", style # 24214884, $188, www.anthropologie.com.

Ikat Printed Skinny Jean: "Ikat Ankle Length Stilt", AG (Adriano Goldschmied), $185, www.calypsostbarth.com.

Ikat Printed Rug: "Ikat Rug", color blue, $59, www.urbanoutfitters.com.

Hands Free!!!

I am so excited about the "cross-body" bag! Although I've been rocking a couple of them for the last few years, they are suddenly very "of the moment". I've been a fan of these bags because of their convenience. We carry so many things-bag, phone, keys, coffee, bottled water, etc.; the list is endless. Why not simplify? I initially started using them because I'm a mom & when out all day at the zoo or an amusement park, it's great having my hands free & to not be dragging one all day on my arm or shoulder. I then discovered how great it was to use them when going to a rock concert. How am I supposed to rock out to Pearl Jam when I have a huge bag on my shoulders? So not cool! But the best thing about these bags is just that-they are so darn cool.

I just purchased one with tons of zippers, for a steal, at $49 at one of my favorite Designer discount stores called Fox's. It has detatchable straps, so it can double as a clutch for evening and is made of faux leather-gasp! I used to be so hung up on only buying bags made of real leather, but then realized faux leather wears better. Also, because it's so much more reasonably priced, if it does get scratched, I won't be as upset about it.

Some of the items pictured may no longer be available. But the last 2 picured are from the Urban Outfitters Catalog. The one shown as a Clutch is by Deena & Ozzy, called "Mixed Media Crossbody Bag" style # 23710460, $69. The last one pictured is by Deena & Ozzy as well, called "Pebbled Crossbody Bag", style # 23729783, $42. www.urbanoutfitters.com. Store location: 20 East Elm St.; Greenwich, CT 06830.

Fox's (designer off-price)
1121 High Ridge Rd.
Stamford, CT 06905
Or www.foxs.com, to shop on line or find other locations.

Who said being a mom meant we could no longer be cool?!