Now that we’ve had a glimpse of some warm weather, I’m sure many of us out there are chomping at the bit to get out in the garden and start the planting, pruning and other gardening chores. But who wants to be digging around in the dirt wearing huge, moldy gloves with a frumpy bucket hat?
That being said, I (JoJami) could not help but squeal with delight when, on a trip to the Philadelphia Flower show, I came across the designer of these precious gardening accessories. Kara Buttimer of Angela’s Garden has created a line of beautifully designed, but extremely practical, gardening gear.
The fun prints and fresh colors are reminiscent of Vera Bradley or Lilly Pulitzer, and the dyes are SPF-protected so the colors won’t fade as you’re in the sun! Angela’s Green Garden collection is also getting a lot of buzz, as all the items are made from hemp and organic cotton. Check out this tote – it might just upset you to get it dirty with your gardening tools! And the gloves actually fit and make your hand look lady-like instead of those big, hot, manly ones that always slip off.
Nicole wrote us recently with this style question about this outfit she found at Saks:
photo: Saks
She had a few questions:
- Q- Do you think this is age-appropriate for women over 40? –We think that the overall idea is very chic. The top is perfectly acceptable, however the leather skirt is too short for women over 40.
- Q – I like the colors, but do you think they are too blah? – The green leather skirt does give the outfit its “pop” of color. So no, we do not think it is too blah.
- Q – What do you think about the bag? — The bag looks fine with this outfit. It could be a good neutral for spring. Personally, would like to see something of a higher quality.
- Q – You did the blog about beige dresses. What about bags in this color or crème? Do they work? –A beige bag is very safe and practical. If you’re on a tight budget it would be an excellent choice, since it would go with virtually everything in your closet. However, beige as an accessory can be boring and we find a colorful handbag can really cheer you up. So, you should have one that is neutral and one that is colored that you love and adore! You do not have to spend a lot on a handbag as long as iit looks high quality.
Notes: We really like the shoes and the layered necklace too!
Dear Deb and JJ,
Recently I had my toes done before I went on vacation to my friends lake house and the guy did a little flower on each big toe. Then, I was at a craft show and found a really cute ankle bracelet for myself and thought it would be a fun step toward updating me, so I splurged and got it.
Now, visiting another friend she fell in love with the ankle bracelet and said here! and slipped a toe ring on me. So now I have one toe ring, one ankle bracelet, and two flowers on my toes (color is subtle) My question is that too much for one set of feet???
Sincerely,
Dressed From the Knees Down
Dear Knees Down,
Well, this is very interesting!! We think your intentions are very good… we love that you have splurged on something that you want. However there is one problem.. the truth is ankle bracelets and toe rings went out of style years ago and are not in style right now. You want to look hip, we’ve got some suggestions below.
Also, little drawings on your manicure or pedicure are fun for teenagers. They are not age appropriate for us ladies. This being said, we feel like we have burst a balloon and taken the fun out of life. However, we promise you we are not snobby, stodgy old ladies, that don’t want you to shine your individuality. NO, we want you to be YOU, but do it with some hip flair, some Oh, la la.. Don’t worry, we have a solution for your fun loving soul! Put your toe and ankle bracelet away or wear it at night with nothing else! Then try these tips to update your look and TWEAK YOUR CHIC!
1. Do it with a great FUN watch!!! Start a watch collection. Cheapo is fine. Find one that speaks to you. Collect them and switch them up. The first time I bought an inexpensive watch I thought I would never wear it much. It’s my favorite one now! Once it starts to look worn, I will toss it and not feel guilty.
2. Buy a jeweled flip flop or one with beads on it. Your shoes should be where you put your bling; not your ankle. For examples, visit our past blog posts on shoes!
3. Try some metallic nail polish in bronze for some subtle shine!
4. How about a colorful purse. Your purse should be FUN. Buy one in a bright color that you LOVE.
5. Totes can say “wow” too. See if you can find a flashy beach bag that says your personality. These are all much better ways to show your “cool” factor!
We like it when we can get a “scoop” on a new product…and so here it is!
The NEWEST “It” bag, is just hitting stores now, its called:
The Kara James Bag!
This is NOT just your ordinary handbag! Not only is it truly hip and gorgeous, but the decorative “belt” that goes around the bag, can be changed to give it a whole new look!
Isn’t it gorgeous? And it is SO well made!!
