Posts tagged ‘Newport’
Body & Soul: Global Wellness Day
- Rooftop Yoga (8:00 AM) – Practice yoga on the rooftop of Vanderbilt Grace with the fabulous Meredith Nordhem Ewenson
- Balance Before Burnout Wellness Workshop (9:30am) – An hour and a half class offered at Vanderbilt Grace with Melissa Kitchen
- King Park Wellington Paddle around Goat Island (10am) – Offered at leisure by Newport SUPper Club
- Creative Dance for Children (11:30am) – 45 minute dance class for children at Vanderbilt Grace with Revka Hovermale
- Balance Before Burnout Wellness Workshop (2pm) – An hour and a half class offered at Vanderbilt Grace with Melissa Kitchen
- Organic Wine & Cheese Tasting (4-7pm) – Presented by Newport Wine Cellar & Gourmet . Stop in and try some of the best clean wines and cheeses!
- Rooftop Yoga (11pm) – Vanderbilt Grace will offer yoga on the roof and bubbles to close the day with Meredith Nordhem Swenson
It’s A Man’s, Man’s, Man’s World
It’s not often you find a bath and body specialty shop with an idyllic blend of well-known luxury brands alongside tomorrow’s next “must haves,” and it’s especially rare for a shop to offer such a diverse range for men’s grooming . That’s one of the best things about Soap + Water on Newport’s famed Bowen’s Wharf: the unique mix of finds all with the two common denominators—high quality and easily accessible.
One of the best known lines they carry for the well-groomed male is Jack Black, offering advanced skin care including shaving creams, moisturizers, grooming sets, cleansers, anti-aging, hair care and body care. As we’ve just jumped into the beginning of “Movember,” right now is the perfect time for Jack Black Beard Lube, a pre-shave oil, shave cream and skin conditioner all in one that penetrates whiskers to soften even the toughest beard. Macadamia nut oil and jojoba oil work below the surface of the skin to soften 
new whisker growth and minimize irritation—ideal for guys who are tenured manscapers as well as the rookie goatee or moustache grower. (It’s a great gift for friends and family of “Newport Muzzy” participants to show your support—and to show that the philanthropic endeavor doesn’t mean grooming goes out the window.) Jack Black’s MP 10® Nourishing Oil helps tame facial hair flyaways and moisturize the skin underneath.
When it’s time to bid adieu to the new beard (or simply give it a good grooming), Italian-imported Poraso Shaving Cream, a “concentrated, creamy soap which brings to mind classic barber shops (especially the Italian variety) with its tingly sensation and old-school packaging.”
But perhaps one of the most interesting brands at Soap + Water for men is Truefitt & Hill. Named after the oldest barbershop in the world (certified by Guinness Book of World Records) which was established in 1805, today the brand is known for the highest quality luxury grooming items for gentlemen: aftershaves, colognes, shaving accessories and hair products. Considering its royal roots (founder William Francis Truefitt established himself as “Court Hair Cutter” and “Court Head Dresser” and Wigmaker by Royal Appointment to His Majesty, King George III), it’s no surprise Truefitt & Hill products are so highly praised and coveted—and in demand at Soap + Water.
And to complete a fresh face, there’s what might the world’s most “contemporary” toothpaste by Marvis. People who use Marvis tend to become voracious loyalists to the brand (seriously, check out the reviews). Made in Italy and decidedly stronger than American toothpaste brands, there are five “Masterpieces of taste” by Marvis currently (and exclusively in Newport) at Soap + Water.
Only seven more shopping days til Christmas (just sayin’)!
Find Soap + Water at 16 Bowen’s Wharf in Newport, on Facebook and online web-store here.
This post was sponsored by Soap + Water Newport. All opinions expressed are independent and my own.
Inspired by Celeb Style: Fabulous & Flattering Winter Outerwear and Accessories
I brought some fabulous and flattering winter outerwear and accessories to The Rhode Show this morning to show staying warm in the cold doesn’t mean you have to look like the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man. The best thing about sporty puffer jackets, a favorite of celebs, is that you can find all different variations: some with belts and spiffy hardware, others with faux-fur trimmed hoods (check out Reese Witherspoon above, and sexy Sofia Vergara below left), and some that are lightweight but that will keep you just as warm thanks to innovative fabric technology–and all at a wide range of price points. They’re perfect for ice skating at Newport Skating Center (check GoNewport.com for details!) or on local ponds, for walks to keep up that New Year’s resolution or just when you want to be about in about if comfy clothes but look put together at the same time.
You’ll be warm and chic in this Michael by Michael Kors puffer style down coat. Note the quilting detail, the long sleeves with ribbed knit cuffs, eye-catching gold zipper closure and symmetrical pockets with gold button detail. Similar styles have been seen on a ton of celebrities including Reese and Sofia (pictured) as well as Jennifer Aniston, Leighton Meester and more. I found this one at TJ Maxx on clearance for $59.
For a much trimmer, practically feather-like version that just as if not more warm, 
check out this ultra-light 650 fill goose down coat by nau. The unique quilting, slim shaped cut that accentuates the waistline and tailored fit chevron quilting that slims the body, it’s actually called the “Cocoon Trench” because it wears more like a cocoon than a jacket. Sarah Jessica Parker (right) was spotted in one very similar taking the kids to school in NYC. $300, from Potter & Co., 172 Thames Street, Newport.
I wanted to bring a much lighter jacket for when it’s unseasonably warm like it has been this 
winter, and what better than this funky Bench BBQ jacket as worn by none other than Lady Gaga (and Fergie, Anna Lynne McCord and more). It’s has a roll out hood, 6″ zipper sleeve vents, all-over screen print and bright pink embroidery. Just $125, from Island Outfitters, 473 Thames Street, Newport (and additional locations in Martha’s Vineyard, Cape Cod and Connecticut).
I didn’t forget the men, and I showed this awesome Commuter Signature Active-Cotton Hooded Jacket by Bench. It has multiple pockets, plus a high collar to block wind with ribbed knit trim on the cuffs, hem, and collar. $179 from Island Outfitters, 473 Thames Street, Newport.
This is a new take on the old Ugg. The Bailey Button can reach over-the-knee height or have a more traditional mid-calf height with the flexible convertible 
shearling cuff. The same boot was seen on Vanessa Hudgens and similar styles on Sienna Miller and Eva Longoria. Regularly $350, on sale for $262 at Sole Desire, 131 Swinburne Row in Newport’s Brick Market Place.
Love this hat and scarf by Swedish company Holebrook. Island Outfitters in Newport is the only U.S. retailers of the brand. Couldn’t you see Prince William wearing this scarf? They’re 100% cotton and super soft.
Texting, Tweeting, Word with Friends—it’s nearly impossible to do it all with gloves on, but new touch screen 
gloves are changing all that. The North Face has these Etip gloves that the crew at Island Outfitters says are flying off the shelves. $40. I also love these decidedly low-tech, fingerless knit versions by Pistil from Potter & Co. are super sweet and just $26. Pair it with a matching crisp, white knit brim hat.
(oh, and if any was wondering, I’m wearing Newport’s own CK Bradley!)
Action! Fall Fashion on the Silver Screen Highlighted in RI Style Magazine
Challenge: Pair local looks from Rhode Island boutiques with the fashion found in this fall’s film line up.
When my editor in Portland assigned the piece back in July, I quickly started researching fall movies with eye-catching wardrobes. After all, as the opener sa
ys, Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Diane Keaton in Annie Hall, Kate Winslet in Titanic—in some of the biggest blockbusters of all time, the fashion has been as memorable (and in some cases, iconic) as the movie itself. You can get a better look at the issue by liking its Facebook page here, or picking it up on newsstands, but here’s the abridged version:
Girl with the Dragon Tattoo A metallic jacquard bustier dress by Tibi from ZuZu’s Petals (Cranston & Providence)
Footloose I’m sure the remake is great, but for this one I channeled the original, choosing a bold, one shoulder Amber dress by Kara Janx from Chace N’Lulu, Newport (ps: now through Sunday, all dresses are 30% off at Chace N’ Lulu!)
Higher Ground For film adaptation of Carolyn S. Briggs’ autobiography, I picked an Aryn K. studded sleeve Ikat maxi dress from Queen of Hearts (Providence)
I Don’t Know How She Does It So it wasn’t exactly the blockbuster the studio was hoping for, but for the mommy-meets-mogul character, it’s all about this ruffled shirt dress with a sexy slit from White House Black Market (Cranston)
Wanderlust For this power couple meets flower power pic, the clear choice was global tunics from Rib & Rhein, Newport
One on One with Designer Amy Smilovic of Tibi
Although Tibi’s flagship store is located on Wooster Street in New York City’s Soho neighborhood, the line has an effervescent appeal that complements the Newport lifestyle. 
When I learned designer Amy Smilovic (left) grew up on a small island off the coast of Georgia, it made sense that Tibi seems right at home in the City-by-the-Sea (where she hopes to visit). So I interviewed the designer of this much loved line, and here’s what Amy had to say:
How would you describe the Tibi aesthetic? Tibi has been going through a transformation for the past few seasons. We’re working with new silhouettes and fabrications, while remaining true to certain aspects of the brand: undeniable-pops of color, a mix of masculine and feminine and effortless dressing. The Tibi girl (or woman) is someone who wants to have fun. Clothing, of course, serves a very basic function, but beyond that it’s about feeling great in what you wear.
What inspires your design in general, and what is the inspiration behind your Spring/Summer 2011 collection? For me, inspiration can come from anywhere—much of the time it’s travel. When I started the line in Hong Kong, I was 
inspired by the juxtaposition of all the Balinese artisans, locals and the ex-pats. Other past collections have stemmed from trips to Palm Beach, Russia, Paris—anywhere. It’s not just travel though; I’m constantly flipping through books, looking at photography, drawings, paintings and watching old films.
Tibi is well known for feminine silhouettes, bright colors, rich prints—pieces that make women look beautiful. Would you describe your work as a celebration of the female form? I love that idea—to celebrate the female form, but I don’t necessarily approach designing that way. When I hear that phrase, I think of some someone like Oscar de la Renta. I focus on making Tibi chic, feminine and wearable with a hint of coolness and edge.
Olivia Palermo (pictured above) is the face for Tibi’s new ad campaign—clearly she’s beautiful and possesses a keen sense of personal style; h
ow do you feel she personifies the Tibi brand? I love the way Olivia embraces personal style–she really mixes and matches brands, always has amazing accessories and understands fit and proportion so well. That’s the way I think a lot of our customers approach dressing, mixing Tibi pieces in with their closet classics and feeling great about the way they look.
What can we find you wearing on a comfortable, relaxed Saturday afternoon? I have a pair of Tibi pants from our last Resort collection, they’re cropped jersey, a loose fit with suede cuffs and waistband. They’re deliciously comfortable but still look put-together. Those and a cropped, loose knit sweater or ¾ sleeve boatneck tee.
Images courtesy of Tibi
One on One With Designer Rebecca Taylor
Maybe it’s the subtle scent of spring in the air, or the vivid yellow daffodils peppered throughout Newport, or perhaps it’s the anticipation of a fresh-faced bride about to walk down the aisle with the eyes of the world on 
her, but there’s an ode to feminine dressing that’s palpable of late. I’ve always admired designer Rebecca Taylor’s take on creating for the female form—she always seems to fuse a hip, unexpected twist into each carefully crafted piece; this California girl meets disco diva vibe. I caught up with the designer, asking five simple questions to find out her take on the much-loved line.
1. How would you describe the Rebecca Taylor aesthetic? The Rebecca Taylor aesthetic is modern, feminine and flirty. It’s pretty but with a downtown cool. It’s perfect balance between urban and glamour.
2. What inspires your design in general, and what is the inspiration behind your Spring/Summer 2011 collection? I am inspired by books, movies, art, people on the street … There are many things that inspire me on a daily basis. This spring, I really started off with a girl in my mind. She’s the 70’s Charl
ie perfume girl. It’s everything that’s great about classic American Sportswear. Neat high-wasted pants, mirrored color evening gowns, and sheer pleated skirts. I’m in love with clean, fresh and modern.
3. Rebecca Taylor is well known for feminine silhouettes, bright colors, rich prints—pieces that make women look beautiful. Would you describe your work as a celebration of the female form? I design clothes that are wearable. I want women to feel confident and beautiful when they wear Rebecca Taylor.
4. What can we find you wearing on a comfortable, relaxed Saturday afternoon? My Italian army pants, our striped tee and our glitter ballet flats … for a bit of sparkle!
5. Finally, have you ever been to Newport? I have never been to Rhode Island, but I have heard Newport is a beautiful beach town. I will have to get there one of these days…
For shops that carry Rebecca Taylor near you, click here.
Spring Cleaning: Time to Donate & Consign
You won’t usually find me doling out unsolicited advice here, but I spoke at the Southern New England Women’s Expo over the weekend for a seminar titled, Five Fast Tips to Your Best Dressed Self. I wasn’t asked any questions about the talk, but was asked about a dozen times what I was wearing, which is pictured here. It’s the appropriately named ‘Newport Rope’ Gilchrist shirtdress by J. McLaughlin.
The timing for the topic was actually perfect because spring is the best excuse to take a long look at the closet and edit, edit, edit. Call a worthy organization, like Big Sisters of Rhode Island, and schedule pick up for added motivation. Looking for a little extra cash? Consign pieces in near-perfect condition and be sure to donate or give away pieces not taken by the shop—nothing comes back home. Closet cleaning can be daunting—invite a friend over for some added help.*
*works best with wine.
(oh, I included the Five Tips after the jump. Hit more to check them out)
Doris Duke & Vintage Swimsuits
Last night was the opening party to celebrate Dressed to Play: The Sporty Style of Doris Duke, at the late heiresses’ Rough Point mansion. Admittedly, the home is one of my favorite mansions in Newport, perched on a rocky bluff with uninterrupted, 180-degree views of the Atlantic. Miss Duke (as I discovered many of her staff politely called her when I did a story on her
1955 Kahala swimsuit
some time ago), was not your typical heiress, nor was she a shrinking violet. She traveled the world, loved fashion and art, and embraced life to the fullest: surfing, snow and water skiing, ice skating, horseback riding and swimming were all part of her active regimen. Well into her later years, Miss Duke swam off the rocks at Newport (which might explain her enviable figure).
1958 Sundress by Tina Leser
The exhibit features Miss Duke’s sportswear and active clothing including a wide range of casual and active apparel made by American and European designers such as Jantzen, Valentino, and Giorgio Sant’ Angelo. Just as with fashion exhibits featuring Miss Duke’s clothing in the past, I was struck by how many of the pieces would be still wearable and in-style today. For example, the drool-worthy Gucci riding boots, a blue day dress by Emilio Pucci and the great Givenchy sweater set paired with crisp white trousers—so Newport.
See this amazing exhibit for yourself, which will be on display now though November. For more
1968 Gucci Riding Boots
information on Rough Point and the Newport Restoration Foundation, click here.
‘Real Housewife’ Ramona Singer on Newport, Good Times, and Fine Wine
“We had the best time there!” Ramona Singer told me, reminiscing on her sojourn in Newport last summer. And she stayed here in style, aboard the 145-foot luxury motor yacht Lady Sheila with her family as guests of a friend. The mile-a-minute wife, mother and entrepreneuress behind Tru Renewal
skincare, True Faith jewelry, and Ramona Singer Jewelry for HSN is best known for her role on the wildly popular Bravo reality series, The Real Housewives of New York City (she gives us a little teaser of the new season at the end of this interview). “I’m a maven at what I do,” she gushes. “I believe to be successful, you need to love what you do.” So Singer has added yet another passion-meets-venture to her already impressive line up: wine. Pinot Grigio, as longtime Housewives viewers know, is Singer’s libation of choice. “Turtle Time!” Singer’s song and dance in homage to the vino when living it up in St. Martin, has become her signature moniker. Singer said she’s tried a lot of brands, but had yet to find an absolute favorite. “Personally, there was nothing I loved out there,” she told me. “Lots that I liked, but not that I loved.”
When fans would ask what her top pinot was, not having a definitive answer inspired Singer to create her own vintage with Opici Wines. “And the best Pinot Grigios come from Italy’s Venezia region,” she explains. “Basically, to me the most important thing was for the end note to have no bite—you know how sometimes there’s that…just lingering aftertaste? I don’t like that,” she explains. “Ramona Pinot Grigio is crisp, refreshingly fruity, and you can drink it with anything,” she describes. “And it’s a natural, low calorie drink.” A 4oz. glass, she notes, is less than 90 calories. “I’m so neurotic about perfection when it comes to what I do,” she told me, to the point where she ensured in the making of Ramona Pinot Grigio would taste extraordinary in almost any circumstance. “I mean, I want it to be room temperature and still taste good!” The wine is currently being distributed in the tri-state 
area with plans to expand to Rhode Island and beyond. (It retails for $14.99, and Singer asked me to tell readers to ask their local beer/wine/liquor stores to carry her wine.)
For now, fans will have to get their fill of Ramona when the fourth season of Housewives begins, “Thursday, April 7th at 10!” she sings. “I’m telling you, this will be the best season ever. Last year I was the peacemaker, this year I become ‘Ra-motional!’ There are scenes in Morocco that are better than Sex in the City—really full jam packed!”
As for Newport, where last summer she played on the grass courts of the International Tennis Hall of Fame and enjoyed Cliff Walk, The Breakers, went jet skiing and raved about local shops and restaurants, she’s planning her return this summer, yacht or no yacht!
Image at left: Bravo
Lilly Pulitzer for Rent??? You Got It – And 150 Reasons to Give it a Try
Rent the Runway, arguably fashion’s best kept secret, just added more than a half dozen Lilly Pulitzer dresses to their roster of drool-worthy designers. If you haven’t heard, RenttheRunway.com is an online designer rental destination where you can rent looks by Herve Leger, Badgley Mischka, Diane Von Furstenberg, Vera Wang and tons more for a fraction of what you would buy it in stores. Browse by style, occasion, price or even ring up one of their on-call stylists and tell them what you’re looking for, what kind of function you’re going to, what your preferences are, and they’ll steer you in the right direction.
Lilly is one of those lines that never really goes out of style. It’s perennially preppy look might 
lend itself to buying more than renting, especially if you live, summer or travel to Newport, Palm Beach, the Hamptons or other resort areas. In fact, here in Newport, I just recently spotted some beautiful Lilly Pulitzer pieces at Island Outfitters on Lower Thames and Angela Moore on Bellevue Avenue.
But if Lilly is a little out of your standard Cynthia Steffe LBD comfort zone and you’re just hoping to land the look for a specific event or weekend respite, Rent the Runway might be the way to go. I think RTR’s best value is for your black tie events, when you can rent something fabulous like an Angel Sanchez gown that normally retails for $3,000 for $350. Now, $350 is still a nice chunk of change, but if you’re looking to make an unforgettable entrance and make a splash in designer duds you may never otherwise be able to afford, here’s your chance.
Wanna see how fabulous Rent the Runway really is? Then ENTER NOW to win a $150 credit to use on any look from Rent the Runway (within the $150 credit limit). Here’s how to enter: Subscribe to the Newport Stylephile now (look for the subscribe tab at right next to the top Lilly image). If you’re already a subscriber, simply email NewportStylephile@yahoo.com and place ‘Enter me to Rent the Runway’ in the subject line or body of the email. A winner will be chose at random a week from today! Good luck!
