So much of today’s trendiest clothing is embellished with studs, jewels, and gems. But where did it all start? Visiting my little sister, Sam, in Woodstock this past weekend, I realized it began with the Bedazzler. The original Bedazzler hit the market in the early 70s and quickly became an essential appliance for crafty girls across America. Fast forward to 2010 and seven year-old Sam is holding up the tradition, spending the summer bedazzling just about everything in sight. You should see her jean jacket! Challenged by my step-mom to make a bedazzled piece of my own, I decided to transform an old Hane’s tank into my version of the bejeweled tees from Prada Resort 2009. Below, Sam models the tank I made.    

How did I do it? Well, I didn’t actually use the Bedazzler (not precise enough for such detail). All you need to bedazzle your own tank or t-shirt is an assortment of studs and gems (easily found at Michael’s or other craft store) and a pair of tweezers. My first step was to lay out the general shape of the necklace using the larger, clear gems.

Next, I started adding the studs and smaller gems to fill in between the larger gems.

Once you’ve got the stud or gem placed where you want it, carefully push it through the fabric. Using the tweezers, bend each of the four prongs so they lie flat on the inside of the shirt.

Et voila! Time consuming, but so worth it in the end. And you don’t even have to own a Bedazzler! – L

As I’ve said before, I’m a big fan of the one piece swimsuit. I’ve always found them much sexier than the all out bikini. A little less information is never a bad thing (wink, wink). Here are a few of the ones I’m lusting after right now…last chance as many of them are on sale! 

1. Bantu ($235): Manufactured in Ethiopia, these African print one pieces and bikinis have created quite a following in the past year or so. Sold at Barneys, Fred Segal, and Net-a-porter. 2. Zimmermann (on sale at their Soho pop up store): The Australian-based company makes hands-down the best one piece swimsuits. They also make fantastic beach lounge wear, 3. Lisa Marie Fernandez: From New York City fashion stylist Fernandez’s sophomore collection, this neoprene, scuba-inspired bathing suit is super flattering, 4. Tory Burch (on sale for $97.50): Can’t resist a Liberty-esque print like this, 5. Loeffler Randall (on sale for $151): Every swimwear collection needs a basic black suit, but it’s always nice to wear one with a little twist, 6. Zimmermann ($350): Very sexy. Hope you’re all planning a little time by the beach/at the pool this summer! – L

Leave it to Moschino and Kartell to make plastic fantastic. In the ultimate fashion meets design partnership, two of our favorite Italian brands have come up with a modern, yet whimsical take on the ballet flat. Made entirely from interwoven plastic and topped off with Moschino’s iconic bow, the “BowWow” shoe will be available in a wide selection of eye-popping hues. Arriving stateside this winter, they’re destined to be a hit next spring.- L

Pick your poison…

Every woman knows that when you’re short on cash, the best way to add some zip to your look is through accessories. While you may not be able to overhaul your summer wardrobe this year, you can purchase a few key items to freshen it up. Below, my summer 2010 essentials:

1. Norma Kamali square cat eye frames ($250): Cat eye sunglasses are all the rage right now, popping up on Prada’s fall runways and on style setters across the globe. Skip the standard Ray Bans this summer for something a little bit unexpected, 2. Diptyque philosykos (woody) perfume ($88): The perfect summer scent and one of the most convincing fig based perfumes. So fresh and clean, 3. Maria Rudman pewter orange leather bracelet ($230): A colorful twist on the traditional sailor’s bracelet, Rudman’s bracelets are glammed up with pewter embroidery, 4. J Crew summer straw hat ($34): A wide brimmed hat is a must-have on any beach day, and this one is perfectly priced, 5. Missoni woven leather sandals (on sale $305): These are a great neutral sandal but still fun. I’m just realizing what bad shape my sandals from last summer are in…time for an update! – L

When it comes to period clothing, I don’t usually like it. Too costumey! To my great surprise, my mom and I found the most amazing Edwardian era dress at Brimfield two weekends ago. We were both in awe of its beautiful craftsmanship and elaborate details. How it has been preserved and kept in such pristine condition is beyond me! I don’t think I’ve ever owned anything this intricate and ornate.

What’s great about this dress is that it not too old fashioned looking. In fact, its not so far off from lots of the lace dresses that walked both the fall and spring 2010 runways (from left: Chloe, Rodarte, Anna Sui, Christian Dior).

Here I am in the newest edition to my wardrobe. Barely breathing on account of the tiny ribs of the woman who originally wore this dress! I think it would look great with a simple brown sandal, punked up with a pair of doc martens, or dressed up with an elegant heel for a nighttime event. Isn’t this dress just the epitome of romantic? I love imagining on whom and where it was worn before me. – L

Mother’s day is just around the corner, and I’ve been keeping my eyes out for affordable, chic gifts to show my mom how much I appreciate her! I’ll try to keep updating you with more ideas as the day gets closer. Here’s what I’m contemplating right now:

1. Hammocks & High Tea: tea towels, place mats, and napkins made of some of the most beautiful textiles. You can’t go wrong here. 2. Jonathan Adler tumblers: new from JA, these bright and cherry cups are great for an outdoor party or picnic, and they come in a variety of different colors and patters ($13). 3. Shu Uemura silk bloom shampoo and conditioner. My mom loves fancy shampoos and conditioners but never actually splurges on them herself. Shu Uemura’s new line of hair products are fantastic and a great way to pamper mom! ($40) 4. Cardigan by Lynne Hiriak grandpa-style, button-down lightweight sweater for spring goes over everything. What are you all getting your mother’s on their big day? And if you’re a mother, tell us what you’d like to receive! – L