Tuesday, June 24, 2014

Simple Elegance + Modern Jewelry


Simple yet striking jewelry has always been my cup of tea.

The latest geometric designs with elementary lines are elegant and decisively modern.  I would argue, that these modern designs are becoming the neo-classic. Traditional, yet edgy. The type of jewelry our granddaughters will fight over. Never fussy, these straightforward designs pack a punch - while remaining humble. Here are some of my favorites at Parallel right now:



Brass Ox Snake Chain Necklace by Giles & Brother
Double-Cortina necklace in a snake chain in brass oxide.


Pavé Bundle Bracelet by Giles & Brother
Antique brass with black diamond Swarovski crystal.  This bracelet is comprised of 5 strands with a spring ring clasp closure.


Gold Stick Earrings by Flossy
Metal: 14k Gold Plated
$58


Sunset Necklace by Friends of Natives
28" Length, Materials: Brass
 $110



Half Moon Bangle by Friends of Natives
3" Diameter, Materials: Brass
$82

Hexagon Bangle by Friends of Natives
3" Diameter, Materials: Brass
$82


Stick Earrings by Friends of Natives
1" Length, Materials: Brass and Sterling Silver pins
$58

Tuesday, June 17, 2014

Interview with Davora Lindner of Prairie Underground


We had the pleasure of interviewing Davora Lindner, co-designer and head of marketing at Prairie Underground. With a background as a sculptor, she has earned numerous accolades for her art and recognition for her collaboration with Camilla Eckersley on their wildly popular apparel line: Prairie Underground. We sat down for a quick chat about this innovative brand out of Seattle.

 


As Artists, what makes you tick? Where do you find your inspiration for a new collection? 

We're self-referential in the way we work. Our theme is generally Prairie Underground and what we have produced historically. The collection is created in homage to a time and place in the late 80's but its meant to address the needs of contemporary women. It's common for new styles to be based on a previous ones that we're perfecting or evolving. We reference fashion history and interpret historical silhouettes in contemporary fabrications. Pret-a-Porter designers also inspire what we create.

"Fashion is an applied art and that dialogue is global and evolving. It's our job to offer garments that are novel that also have a broad appeal. We try to think more like inventors than artists." 


 What does your average day look like? 

Responding to email, phone calls, problem solving and fittings. There are quarterly creative periods devoted to sketching, pattern making, colors stories, textile development and photo shoots but we spend a lot of time on the day to day demands of running our company. We're lucky to work with an incredibly talented team of individuals we also consider friends. It's a unique environment and we laugh a lot.


What makes a stylish person? 

Careful planning and self discipline. Important to note that it isn't essential to be stylish.

What has been the biggest obstacle having your own line? 

It's always been decision making. It's daily, of vital importance and generally time sensitive.


All images courtesy of Prairie Underground. Article by: Elizabeth Aley

The secret to sweet smelling sheets? Ironing Water.

Once the secret of Europe's finest hotels, Ironing Water is used to freshen fabrics,  infusing sheets, fine clothes & draperies with a crisp clean smell when pressed.


Laundress Ironing Water, classic scent

Unlike other solutions, Ironing Water will not clog your iron or steamer when added directly to your machine (directions call for the concentrated mixture to be diluted with a bit of water). Anything your iron touches will come out perfectly pressed and smelling fresh (not starchy).

While I have never used ironing water on clothes, I love using it on sheets for guests. Trust me, your friends will wonder why your sheets smell so divine and when they find out your ironed the sheets for them, it will rock their world. 

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

Bath Time Essentials

Who doesn't love a relaxing soak in the tub? After a long day, there is really nothing finer. Parallel has some delicious options that promise to make your next bath a bit more luxurious.


Detox Sea Salts by Herbivore

Combined with essential oils, this blend was created to absorb toxins within your skin and energize your body - leaving you refreshed and detoxified. 


Coconut Bath Soak by Herbivore 

Skin softening organic coconut milk is the basis of this luxurious and indulgent bath soak. Perfect for hydrating and softening skin, this soak will leave your skin silky soft and smelling of coconut and natural vanilla.

Calm Bath Salt by Herbivore 

 This blend of essential oils was created to ease your mind, relieve your tension and help to put your mind and body into a peaceful, sleepy state.


And what bath would be complete without the proper mood lighting?


Macadamia + Coconut Candle by Sydney Hale Co. 

Monday, June 9, 2014

Rag and Bone Fall Fashion Show 2014 :: The Return of Bed Head Hair


Model: Sasha Luss
Photo: Yannis Vlamos/Indigitalimages.com

Ever wish you could just roll out of bed and dash without fussing over your hair? Rag and Bone's Fall fashion 2014 show, styled by Paul Hanlon, is bringing the wispy bed head back. Gently pulled back locks with a bit of frizz is a "devil may care" chic. What do you think? Would you dare? 

Photographed by Kevin Tachman via Vogue


Model: Karlie Kloss 
Photo: Yannis Vlamos/Indigitalimages.com

See more of Rag and Bone's 2014 Fashion Show over at Vogue.

Aura Dress by Paul & Joe Sister

I am loving this elegant Aura Dress by Paul & Joe Sister, and it appears I am not the only one! There are only two sizes left in the store!

A soft blue suede with a flattering tie waist, this dress is a classic cut with my all time favorite feature: front pockets.









Color: Blue, 100% Tencel, Imported
    Sizes available: 40: 6/8 and 42: 10/12

Tuesday, June 3, 2014

Juniper's Precious Heart












Sandal Season

When the Sun comes out and summer is in full swing, I practically live in my sandals.

Since sandals become a part of my summer uniform, I spend a lot of time finding the right pair. I kinda obsess about it. They have to compliment a wide range of outfits and be unique enough to peak my interest.

Here are some styles I am excited about at Parallel:

Totenic Sandal by DAY Birger et Mikkelsen
Black, Goat Skin Suede Leather, Imported
Only one size 11 left! 
On sale: $69 



Chartan Sandal by Rag & Bone
Black100% Italian vegetable tanned cow leather upper, 7/8" cork and leather footbed



Quinn Sandal in Tan by Rag & Bone
Tan or Blush Italian tanned cow leather upper, 7/8" cork and leather foot-bed

Cheers to finding that perfect pair of sandals this season!