Iconic Woman Of Style: Jackie Bouvier Kennedy Onassis

This week's iconic woman of style is the definition of style and grace. Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis has been inspiring women with not only her style sense, but her elegance and courage for over fifty years. Chic ensembles that were understated but smartly put together, are still modern staples of today. She was a wife, a sister, a mother and a first lady from whom we can all take a few tips and inspiration from every now and then.

Simplicity is the key to creating the iconic Jackie O style. Jackie was known for wearing simple, basic pieces that fit well. Well thought out combinations make for a very smart and well put-together look. 

Adding pearls and button earrings is a perfect go to combo for a chic yet conservative look. Again, simple pieces of jewelry that pull a look together without adding too much bling. Jackie's were a signature triple strand created by Kenneth Jay Lane. 

Add in a large pair of black glasses, keep to those clean lines, and simple jewelry and you will have an elegant and sophisticated look just like the iconic Jackie O.  

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Jetsetter Destinations: Kenya, Africa

Truly rewarding experiences in life often happen when we step out of our comfort zone, and explore what the world has to offer. Such is the case when visiting Campi ya Kanzi, nestled within the legendary 'Green Hills of Africa',  upon a 280,000 acre Maasai Group Ranch. This award winning luxury safari destination is a pioneer in environmental sustainability, providing not only an unforgettable wilderness experience, but an authentic view into Maasai culture, while directly involving  the local community. A true definition of ecotourism, Campi ya Kanzi is a partnership initiative with the Maasai, whereby the ultimate travel adventure simultaneously aids in the preservation of wildlife and cultural heritage. Personalized game drives, flights over Kilimanjaro, guided star gazing, evening sundowners and visits of Maasai villages and schools are just some of the exhilarating, memorable experiences to be had during a visit to this magical place. 

Learn more about Campi ya Kanzi, the affiliated Maasai Wilderness Conservation Trust, and the many benefits of visiting such a uniquely amazing place, here

Also, be sure to check out the Nyumba ya Kipepeo house in Malindi, proceeds of which go to the Maasai Wilderness Conservation Trust. 

*Photos courtesy of Veronika Borchers

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Iconic Women of Style: Women of the 2012 Olympics

With so much happening over in London, featuring one iconic woman this week just didn't seem sufficient. For the first time in history, the US has sent more women than men to the Olympic games. The women of the 2012 Olympic teams are not only wives, mothers, sisters, and friends, but fiercely competitive role-models who inspire us all to reach for our own greatness.  

Misty May-Treanor and Kerri Walsh: Beach Vollyball

Misty is currently the most successful beach volleyball player in the world, with 110 championships under her belt. 

Kerri, mother of two and returning two time olympic champion has made history by winning two back to back gold medals, and possibly a third this year. 

Gabby Douglas: Gymnastics

At just 16 years old, Gabby Douglas is now the reigning world champion of women's gymnastics. The first African-American woman to hold the title. Staying focused and determined, she showed true poise in the journey gold. 

Hope Solo: Soccer

Considered to be the best goalkeeper in the world, Hope has had a career and life full of ups and downs.  She continues to inspire children and adults a like to stay passionate and follow their dreams of success no matter what the obstacle. 

Carmelita Jeter: Running

Jeter arrived at this year's games hoping to defend her title of worlds fastest woman. Coming in hundredths of a second behind the winner of the 100 meter race, Carmelita said of her race "I left my heart and soul on that track. When you do that you can't be upset."

Keep up with all of your favorite female olympians over at ESPNW throughout the rest of the games. 

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The Luxe List: Daisy Shaw, Allure Magazine

On this week's Luxe list we had the pleasure of chatting with the  fabulous Associate Accessory Editor at Allure, Daisy Shaw. Daisy is a regular at HOL, always on the lookout for the next amazing piece to grace the pages of Allure. She has shared with us some of her favorite items for the upcoming seasons, and everyday staples that she can't live without. 

* Jil Sander shoe, Fall 2012- ''Raf Simon's latest collection for Jil Sander was fantastic- the billoy coats, the powdery pink- these shoes are some of my favorite of the season: the perfect mix of edgy, sporty, and super femme."

* The French Riviera- ''I've been going almost every summer since I was a child. It's my happy place- so beautiful, so relaxed, and such delicious Rosé!"

* YSL look 18, Fall 2012- ''Black leather is huge for Fall and every woman should have at least one piece, in my opinion. I love this YSL look, it's sexy and super chic"

* Jonathan Adler needlepoint pillows,  Union Jack- "I'm a born and bred Brit and this is my token piece that reminds me of home. All of his needlepoints are fabulous, and add fun to every room."

* Chanel backpack Fall 2012- "The backpack is back and I just love this mini one in classic Chanel tweed. It's great for day to night and adorable. 

* Michael Kors Resort 2013 embellished cuffs and barrel clutch- "These are like little treasures for your wrists and hands- perfect for glitzy parties or cocktails."

* Clarisonic skincare brush + La Prairie Cellular Resurfacing Cream- 'These are my two beauty must haves- great skin compliments any look."

* House of Lavande gold door knocker earrings- "We shot these for the April issue. I die for these, they are total siren material."

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Iconic Woman Of Style: Katharine Hepburn

Katharine Hepburn, the feisty, free spirited, independent and progressive woman who has graced our television screens for over 60 years. She has won a record four academy awards for best leading actress throughout her highly successful career. Katharine spoke her mind, and was always up for a bit of witty banter in her unmistakeable New England accent. She broke all of the rules of her time by wearing loose fitting trousers, menswear style shirts, and always comfortable, flat shoes. Everyday staples of her wardrobe had a very large influence on the way women dress today. Her intelligence and talent rival her glamour and beauty, qualities that make her truly stand out from all the rest. 

Keep it simple and classic, letting your jewels ad a subtle touch to your look. 

The laid back menswear trend is in full swing these days. Throw on a button down with a statement necklace for a fun feminine twist to a masculine look. 

Always remember, nothing is more stylish than a confident woman. Be comfortable in your own skin and with your own style. Try new things, and be daring.

 

Photos Courtesy of Listal

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Iconic Woman of Style: Florence Welch

Florence Welch, of Florence + The Machine. The twenty-five year old British musician with a personal style that inspires us just as much as her musical talent. We of course adore her vintage inspired looks, layered accessories, and flare for the unique. Florence has become quite the staple within the fashion industry as well, performing for Karl Lagerfeld during Chanel's S/S 2012 show, and donning custom made Gucci frocks while on tour. We can't wait to see what Ms. Welch has in store for the future! 

The classic boho style is effortless and always chic. Scouring your favorite vintage shops for jewelry and clothing is a fun way to find pieces that will stand out from everyone else.

Incorporate flowy, ethereal pieces (A la Stevie Nicks) and don't be afraid of prints, tassels and studs. These are all small details that make a big difference. 

Accessories with natural stones, beads and colors are easy additions to your ensemble. Also, don't forget a fun hat or scarf to top off your look.

Shop these House of Lavande pieces 

 Photos Courtesy of Listal

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Iconic Woman of Style: Twiggy

Twiggy, born Leslie Hornby is considered to be one of the world's first international supermodels. She defines the playful, mod style of the 1960's, with her short hair, thin figure and iconic eyelashes. In the 1970's she embarked on a new career path, and became an award winning actress and singer. Today she is still on the forefront of the fashion and entertainment world, with her clothing line Twiggy London, and her latest album Romatically Yours. Twiggy is a true icon that is still inspiring us today.

Graphic designs and menswear inspired accessories such as ties and hats pair perfectly with a classic mini. Add in a pair loafers or boots to complete your look.

Twiggy's 1960's makeup look can be achieved easily. Dust on a light foundation, pink cheeks, and sheer eyeshadow. Add bold liner, and of course extra thick lashes and you are set with a classic 60's look.

Bright colors and geometric shapes of vintage mod jewelry are the perfect addition to stand out from the crowd and create a classic look that will be all your own. Be adventurous while mixing colors and patters for a classic look with a mordern twist. 

Shop the House of Lavande Vintage for these fun Mod inspired looks

Photos Courtesy of Listal 

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Iconic Women Of Style: Brigitte Bardot

Who: Brigitte Bardot,  French model, actress, singer and animal rights activist.

Brigitte began her career in 1952, starring in over 16 movies and taking Europe and the United States by storm. Her effortless and relaxed style of the 1960's has set the standard for sexy feminine looks that are still inspiring us today. Making the bikini popular, vacationing in the South of France, and the Bardot neckline are just a few of the things we can thank Brigitte for. 

HOL Insider Style Tips: 

Achieving the Bardot style is simple, and a perfect look for summer!

Add a large straw hat, black framed shades and a scarf to any summer ensemble to instantly add a touch of glam to your look.

Ballet flats, cropped skinny jeans and polka dots are also all perfect go- to pieces for an effortless 60's style.

Beach wavy hair, thick black liner and a neutral lip add the perfect amount of drama for day or night.

Adding a simple accessory or stacked bakelite bangles will instantly pull your look together and add that perfect 1960's touch.

Shop the House of Lavande jewelry looks, here.

Brigitte photos courtesy of listal 

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The Luxe List: Tracy Smith

Tracy Smith, founder + creative director of House of Lavande, shares a few of her favorite things for summer.

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Spotlight On: Bettina Anderson

This week, we had a few minutes to catch up with one of our favorite locals, Ms. Bettina Anderson! Always on the move, and often in HOL, you never really know where you will see Bettina next. This week though, you can catch her as one of the Signorina girls over on Ferragamo's Girls About Town blog! Updated daily, we couldn't be more excited to check out some of Ms. Anderson's favorite things! 

Speaking of favorites, and always always loving a good laugh, we wanted to share a few of our favorite tweets from Bettina's twitter! "My twitter is a collection of randomness and sarcasm. Basically things people think and don't say...Or do say and then I tweet! If I see a joke lined up, I will always take it just for the sake of a laugh! It's all lighthearted and in good (well sometimes maybe not) humor! Live, Love and LAUGH LAUGH LAUGH!"

No Matter how many college degrees you have, there's a little British kid somewhere that sounds waaay smarter than you when they speak...

I can be up bright or early, pick one

Tried explaining twitter to my mom but her "why would you want to do that" argument was pretty bulletproof

I was trying to get on this website and it said "cookies required to operate".. Me too, website, me too..#cookies#mmm

Words with friends would be more accurate if it was called scrabble with a bunch of cheaters

Whenever I hand some1 my phone 2 take a picture they act like I'm asking them to pilot an alien spaceship. Just point & hit the button that looks like a camera!

WHEN I READ CAPITALS THERES A SHOUTING VOICE IN MY HEAD

I never understood why there was a luggage store at the airport. How late do you have to be for a flight where youre just like "Fu*ck it, just throw your stuff in the car and we'll get a bag at the airport!"

Dear life, when I asked if things could get any crazier...it was a rhetorical question...not a challenge ;)

After watching MTV cribs, I no longer feel badly about downloading music illegally. No one needs a diamond frisbee. 

Follow Bettina @BettinaAnderson

Follow House of Lavande @Houseoflavande

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Spotlight On: Melanie Fascitelli

This week we had the pleasure of catching up with our favorite go-to girl for stylish organization, Melanie Fascitelli, the president and creative director of Clos-ette and Clos-ette too. You could easily say Melanie has a dream job; doing what she loves with everyone from celebrities to friends, all trusting her keen eye to take one of the most coveted and private spaces in their home to the next level. We've asked Melanie a few questions for a peek inside what inspires her, what she's loving for Spring and of course tips on sprucing up you own closet!

HOL: Can you tell us the main differences between your closet in New York, and your closet in Palm Beach?

MF: New York is a very small walk-in, and I utilize every inch of space, shoes are not only on shoe shelves, but also along the floor, below my hanging. I also use hardware on shallow wall space and hang bags and belts.  It is a totally different use of space, since I use every inch! In Palm Beach we currently rent season to season but in every house I've had, my master closet is always bigger than the one in NYC!

HOL: If you could share one tip on keeping your closet organized, what would it be?

MF: Use all of the same hanger. It's the easiest way to organize and clean up your closet in one swoop. Try the Clos-ettetoo.com signature hangers. I prefer the neutral colors, but a lot of our Palm Beach clients prefer the pink and green!

HOL: What inspired you to start clos-ette?

MF: I love fashion, fell in love with interior architecture, and I've always been an organizing freak. It melds all of the things I love!

HOL:  Who is someone who's style you love, and closet you have already done?

MF: I love Beyonce's style, we worked on her closet for Jay-Z before they were married.  

HOL: Who is your dream client?

MF: Aerin Lauder and Sienna Miller because I love their style, and Anna Wintour because that closet must have some of the best gems in the world...

HOL: What are three of your must have pieces?

MF: Reed Krakoff coss body bag, a great pair of aperlai platforms in their spring colors and a great dress by Vanessa Brunro

HOL: What is something  you are coveting for spring?

MF: A white medium sized Botegga Veneta luggage bag, a yellow YSL dress and vintage jewels from House of Lavande of course!

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