Etsy Finds: tissu color block totes

photo: tissu handbags

Behold, this year's perfect summer tote. These color block leather totes from tissue handbags are calling my name. The color blocking and simple design are so in right now. And they're well-made - by an italian designer who now lives in Chicago. Visit the tissue website HERE and the easy store HERE.

(Found via Simple Lovely)

take shelter!

mango stripe umbrella, $69. coral/tan umbrella, $35. red umbrella, $45 bubble umbrella, $20. kiwi dot umbrella, $24. red flower umbrella, $40. black stripe umbrella, $40.

The forecast here has been nothing but rain, rain, and rain. Usually, I'd complain, but a) my new sod is really loving it and b) shopping for a new umbrella can be so much fun! Who knew there were so many different colors and patterns out there. I'm especially fond of the the Marimekko patterns. And just Marimekko in general. But really, any bright, fun umbrella would do the job of both keeping you dry and giving a little boost to the rainy day blues. So take shelter, Milwaukee, the sun doesn't look like it's going to shine any time soon.

a Mad Men dinner party

Plaid Pillow, lowball glasses, cocktail shaker, pollock dish set, steak knives, vintage cookbook

I cannot wait until Sunday night. Mad Men returns for the 5th season with a 2 hour premiere at 8pm. I'm having people over for a Mad Men style dinner and premiere watching. I have some old 60's dishes and plan to make petit steaks; friends are bringing the sides....and a six pack of Heineken (remember Betty's dinner party?).

I just started watching Mad Men at the beginning of the year and chipped away at all four seasons having just finished this week. Now I'm 100% ready for Season 5. Is Betty going to regret divorcing Don? Joan is going to pretend the baby is Greg's? good luck. Is Don really going to marry his secretary? I mean really. Is Sally going to turn into a wild devil child? And will Sal ever come back??? So many questions. And if this show doesn't sound intriguing enough, just watch the promo clip below and tell me this show isn't awesome.

A girl with a sense of humor

1. Heart tunic. I like this cutesy take on the regular polka dot.
2. Tortoise glasses. I just got these Warby Parker glasses last week and really, really like them. My nerdy quotient just tripled.
3. Bag of Tricks tote. I can't wait to see one of the moms at the pediatric clinic walk in with one of these.
4. chiffon hair clips. Girly, yes. But I think I could rock these in black with a wispy updo.
5. yellow taxi mittens. Milwaukee is a city with sporadic cab service so we need all the help we can get flagging down cabbies.
6. Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? by Mindy Kaling. I just finished reading this for book club. Laughed. Out. Loud. (therefore, best read at home alone)
7. Seinfeld hair iPhone case. A subtle homage to Kramer, Elaine, George, and Jerry.

I like: MAKR

I'm loving the oh-so simple lines of these canvas bags from MAKR Carry Goods. Simple is sometimes way better. I could probably own one of these for the next 50 years and still be pretty happy. Truth be told, I still wear some L.L. Bean items I've had since middle school. I'm not loving the crazy-uber price of these little sacks, however. But I digress....

Do you guys own a super simple bag or piece of clothing with clean, classic lines?
I'm liking Lands End Canvas, Jess LC, and Baggu, but I need some more suggestions.

Back to School: 2011 Picks

J.Crew shirt dress, Calf hair headband, Nars Multiple in Maldives, Michael Kors rose gold watch, Suede bootie, Silence & Noise pencil skirt, Warby Parker Reece glasses


I finally went back to school shopping last week and picked up a few must-have staples for the impending cooler weather (I know, curses!). I must say, the outlet malls are a godsend for anyone on a budget, in graduate school, or just trying to save a little. I hit up the Kenosha outlet mall, just 45 minutes south of Milwaukee. I'm really into field jackets, jewel tones, leopard calf hair, and greyish suede this year. What about you?

Last week I had a birthday, relatives in from out of town and I've been working 10 hour days almost every day. Hence the lack of posts. But I promise I'll be better this week. I have some good stuff planned for this week.

Back to School: iPhone cases

Hi Everyone! I'm trying to hurry up and enjoy my short summer vacation before it's time to hit the books again September 1st. We just got back from Massachusetts last night where we were visiting friends and eating as much seafood as possible. I found these great iPhone cases called the Made to Measure and The Undo from Indie Cases today. If you have an iPhone, these cases are the coolest.

Wine totes by Maptote

I've been eyeing up these totes for some time, but haven't been able to choose just one. One to two to keep? One or two to give away. Can't decide. I also think there needs to be a Milwaukee one (obviously).

Tonight is the first Jazz in the Park. Anyone going? I still can't believe they have an "official" no carry-in policy. What a shame because these totes would have been perfect.

*Chill on the Hill in Bay View's Humboldt Park does not have any such policy. So downtown, I will take my Maptote Winetone elsewhere, thank you.

Bags and more Bags

image via NYmag
I know I have enough bags/totes/purses but these Baggu bags look QUITE practical. Especially for biking/scootering/walking around this summer. And they're under $40. So with that said, can you realllllly have too many bags??


images via baggu

Essie on my nails

top: super bossa nova, absolutely shore bottom: brazilliant, too too hot

I'm really feelin' these new summer colors from Essie. I have always opted for the neutrals and "classy" (aka safe) colors until my friend Alison turned me onto the brighter and bolder side of nail colors palettes. I'm in desperate need of a pedicure with super bossa nova......ASAP.

It's For the Birds....

Roost nest from GRDN, $6., Bird Seed Eggs, $5, Birds: The Art of Ornithology, $19.95, Cardinal Bird Seed Mix, $9.99, Egg Bird Feeder, $135, Binoculars, $160

MARCH MADNESS: Marquette Style

Marquette is headed to the Sweet Sixteen! It was a great game last night. My head began to have joyous flashbacks to 2003 when I watched Johnson-Odom nail a 3-pointer with a minute to go. I may not have shown my blue and gold colors as much as I should this season, but there's still plenty o' time to ring out ahoya with an m-u-rah-rah. Well, us Alumni will probably skip the face paint. Ok, I have to go and dig out my photos from the Final Four now.


Men's Stripe Tie, MU Nike Hat, Yellow Nail Lacquer, Gold basketball Charm, Sweet 16 t-shirt, Navy suede flats, Sapphire stud earrings, Yellow wallet

The Stylish iPhone Addict

I totally love the new Windows Phone 7 ad because I live that every. single. day. It's not me on the phone, of course. (FYI, I'm horrible at answering calls/emails). It's my husband that is on the phone--talking, emailing, texting, working, playing the "words with friends" game--and I'm the one saying, "really ?". Sometimes I pretend that I'm important, too, and so busy that I can't talk. Then he'll ask me what I'm busy doing and I'll say "shopping". So, if you're the one on the phone or the one saying "really ?", don't worry I've been doing the shopping for you.

Travel Style: Duffel bags

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.


If I was stranded on a desert island and could only bring 5 things, I would certainly bring a duffel (duffle) bag. I have a Gap duffle from like 10 years ago that I pack "just in case" or use to lug around laundry or stuff from my trunk. Admittedly, some of these duffels are a little too nice for "lugging", but I guarantee they'll last no matter what you carry in them.

Shopping List: Sleepy King Toys

These little fox stuffed animals from Sleepy King are cute enough for adults, no? What?! I am too old to like stuffed animals?? Pssshhht.

TV night! Cougar Town Style

I have to admit, I am quite the Cougar Town fan. I love the outfits, and the home decor, and the campy jokes. I also think it would be fun to drink wine and live in Florida. Due to some family plans, I am going to tape the season 2 premiere tonight and watch it tomorrow. So don't tell me what happens! If you're also a Cougar Town fan (or just a hip chica that likes good style) you'll like these Cougar Town inspired finds:



Entertainment Weekly did a mini set tour of Jules Cobb's house. Check out exactly what products are used on the set!

Shopping List: Birthday #27

Yep, it's my birthday month. For the past few years, I have been asked to make a list of what I want. It's so hard to guess what someone wants. And it seems to get worse as someone ages. I think for the higher the birthday number, the harder it is to shop for that person. Sure, there's always the go-to gift card option, but it's really hard to crank out a really creative gift year after year. So, for anyone in the birthday gift market right now, here are some good ideas for let's say a 27 year-old gal living in Milwaukee. So, sit back as I drop some obvious hints to my husband as to what I would really, really like this year.


The List

H20 plus aquatics shampoo, $14, and conditioner, $16.

Roost Ceramic Farmer's Market Baskets, $13-25.

Widu small ash wide tooth comb, $16.

Rhodia paper treasure box, $21.

Boden leopard flats, $138.

Thomas Paul tea kettle print tea towel, $20.

Kate Spade Big Apple Remy Wallet, $125.

Bust magazine subscription, $15.

Milwaukee magazine subscription, $19.

La Mer watch, $135.

Shopping List: Spring Cleaning

The only way I like cleaning is if I get to go buy nice new cleaning supplies. It gets me all excited! And makes me forget that cleaning is hard work. So I'll be inside doing that. Hopefully getting outside a little to enjoy the nice 80 degree weather. Matt will be working in the garden this weekend. Lulu the dog has some big plans sleeping in the grass. Hope you're all enjoying the weekend, too!



Steele Canvas Laundry cart, Caldrea for Target, Twist natural sponges, Simplicity Freedom Vacuum, Mrs. Meyers Lemon Verbena Laundry detergent, Seventh Generation Natural glass and surface cleaner, Nellie's eco dryer balls

Living in my car

Heritage Leather Co. Mason bag, $79. Car Litter bag, $19. Two Moms in the Raw granola, $3-10. Ray Ban aviator sunglasses, $96. New Pornographers, "Together", $10. Power inverter, $30. Aveda Chakra 5 mist, $30. Pendleton Motor Robe, $78. Power inverter, $30.

I spend about 1/2 my workday in the car so it often does feels like I live there. For all that time I spend in there, you think I would take better care to make it look nicer. But no, there are dog bones in the back seat, shoes on the floor, my workbag and laptop on the passenger seat, and at least a half dozen Starbucks cups strewn all over. This week, I'm making an effort to clean things up and make my "mobile office" a little more inhabitable.

Milwaukee Holiday Gift Guide

Photo from RetinalFetish

I know it's early. But we all have to do our shopping and it's best to just get it out of the way. Last year, I tried to buy all of my gifts from local stores/businesses. It's possible, but sometimes it’s hard to figure out where to go. Here's a quick guide that I hope will make it easier for you.......


FOR HIM:

Brewery tour: Lakefront, Miller, and Sprecher all have gift shops with the usual T-shirts, pint glasses, and sampler packs that guys love. I suggest getting Beer Soap found at the Sprecher Brewery, made by their brewmaster, Jim Olen.

Hit the gym: Buy them Marquette or UWM basketball shorts and a sweatshirt. Go to Laacke & Joys for even nicer outdoorsy options and camping gear. They get comfortable and stylish duds and you don’t have to put up with their gross old gym shorts. Consider it a Christmas present to yourself.

Creative side: Everybody likes concert tickets. Upcoming shows at the Pabst include: New Year’s Eve with Jim Gaffigan or with Spoon, Anthony Bourdain, and Kevin Smith. Gift cards are available on their website. Vinylville, a Milwaukee artist, sells some nice guy-friendly artwork on Etsy. In particular, the large canvas print of the Hoan Bridge is great for that bachelor pad or man cave. Landmark Theaters (The Oriental and Downer theaters) have gift cards available, too. Pair it up with a good ol’ Milwaukee classic DVD like “American Movie” or another locally filmed movie.


FOR HER:

Coffee/Tea fan: For the tea drinkers: the world renowned Rishi Tea is based in Milwaukee. Good options are the Green Tea Set or the 2009 Award Winning Sample Set. For the coffee drinkers: Go to Alterra Coffee. Not only are there 1lb bags of the BEST COFFEE ever, but lots of shirts, hats, and quality travel mugs and tea sets. During the holidays, they usually have gift sets of Hot Chocolate and Mint Hot Chocolate.

Your BFF: check out Loop in Riverwest for yarn and knitting supplies or Soaps & Scents on Downer Ave. where you can stock you up on “better than Bath and Bath Works” quality amenities. Local artists are always abound on Etsy and at craft shows in the area. Amy Marcella designs great prints like the “Fall Bouquet” one above. She will be at Art vs. Craft next month.

Clothes Horse: My favorite Milwaukee options are Miss Groove, Lela, and Chartreuse, but there are dozens of others. When it comes to buying clothes, make sure you know your friend’s style, aim for something small, and always include a gift receipt. Matt & Nat wallets at Miss Groove or eco friendly scarves at Chartreuse are great gifts. When in doubt, G-I-F-T C-A-R-D.


FOR THE HOSTESS:

The Cholive company from Milwaukee makes chocolates to put in your martini. These unexpected bite-sized truffles are popular at any party they make an appearance. You can’t go wrong with beer, wine or cheese. The Milwaukee Public Market is the easiest place to stock up on local options of all three. Pick up small italian cookies at Peter Sciortino's Bakery on the Brady St. where already prepared party trays are available. Lastly, there’s always chocolate and seriously, who hates chocolate? The best (and weirdest) place to go is Northern Chocolates in the Brewer’s Hill neighborhood. A few tips: Knock really loud at the door, Don’t wear fur, Bring cash, Always take your shoes off. Sounds like a lot of hoops but the mint meltaways are totally worth any encounter with the Chocolate Nazi. You can also find Omanhene Chocolate (Milwaukee-Ghana Fair Trade company) in most Milwaukee grocery stores.


FOR THE READERS and WRITERS:

Subscriptions! Personally, I’m worried about losing any more local publications than we already have, so support what’s around. The Journal Sentinel has a Sunday paper subscription (the ‘rents love this). The Milwaukee Magazine is well put together, but more editorial in nature. M magazine and Milwaukee Home and Fine Living Magazine would surely please your stylish friends.
For cookbook ideas, see the post a couple days ago here. In the Third Ward, Broadway Paper sells lots of greeting cards (many handmade), stationery, and MoleSkin notebooks.


FOR THE COOKS:

The Spice House is one of the best kept secrets in Milwaukee. The aromas, tastes, and new discoveries are worth the trip alone. If it's too hard to pick out which spices you want, look for the gift sets: "Some like it Hot" with stuff like Cajun seasoning, Fire Salt, and Chili Powder; or the "Italian Food Lover's" that includes Pesto seasoning and the Little Italy blend. George Watts & Son is well known for their beautiful expensive dishes, but they have lots of affordable cookware and home decor, too. Carving sets, serveware, dining linens, or even a gift card for the famous Tea Room are all gifts that would surely impress a gourmet connoisseur.


FOR THE KIDS:

I don’t know many kids that like getting clothes for the Holidays but that may change if their moms go to freckleface. These designer kids clothes are a little pricier, but once a year it’s OK to splurge. For less expensive options, check out the adorable little “Converse” style socks. I, like many young girls, asked for a pony for Christmas. I’m pretty sure this still goes on. A reasonable alternative would be to sponsor an aquatic animal at Discovery World, or Aquadopt as they call it. It comes with a plush animal version of the adopted animal and some nifty “official” paperwork. If teenage girls are on your list I feel sorry for you, but you may win them over with a gift card for the Girls Spa-ahhhh Therapy Works Package at Actaea Works, Ltd in Bayview or Shorewood.


A GOLD MINE OF LOCAL RESOURCES:

The Our Milwaukee business directory for local businesses
Our Milwaukee Buy Local for the Holidays Fair Sunday December 6th at Lakefront Brewery Palm Garden, 1-5pm.
Urban Garage Sale featuring Milwaukee local shops. Saturday December 16th at Turner Hall Ballroom, 10:30-5pm.
Art vs. Craft 2009 November 28th at Humphrey Scottish Masonic Temple, 10-7pm
Lakefront Brewery
Sprecher Brewery
Miller Brewery in Milwaukee
Marquette Gift Shop
UWM Bookstore
Laacke & Joys
Pabst Theater gift cards
Vinylville on Etsy.com and the Hoan Bridge print on canvas
Landmark Theaters gift cards
”American Movie” website
Other movies filmed in Wisconsin
Rishi Tea website
Rishi Tea Green Tea Set
Rishi Tea 2009 Award Winning Sample Set
Alterra Coffee website
GQ Magazine ‘s “The Most Important Drink of Your Day” article naming Alterra Coffee
Loop yarn store
Contact info for Soaps&Scents
Amy Marcella’s Etsy Shop and Fall Bouquet print
Miss Groove
Lela Boutique
Charteuse eco-friendly boutique (They just moved to Brady St. this month)
Cholive Company
Peter Sciortino's Bakery
Omanhene Chocolate Co.
Milwaukee Public Market website: Thief Wine Shop and Bar, West Allis Cheese & Sausage Shoppe
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Subscription
Milwaukee Magazine Subscription
M Magazine Subscription
Milwaukee Home and Find Living Magazine Subscription
Broadway Paper
The Spice House
George Watts & Son
freckle face
Aquadopt Program at Discovery World
Actaea Works Ltd.