1. Jonathan Adler's new stationery line. I'm a huge paper freak so I was ecstatic to see that the purveyor of Happy Chic had delved into a new line of stationery and paper goods. Aside from the usual note cards and journals, Adler also offers wrapping paper, paper plates and paper lanterns (prices start at just $4.95). Now I just need a great excuse to throw a party....
2. A bold blue bag. I'm a big believer in the power of a great bag (or pair of shoes) to perk up your wardrobe. This Spring, a bright blue bag is the perfect alternative to black or gray (and it won't show dirt like white or cream would). My pick is the "Branded Stud" leather bowler bag in cobalt blue by Ted Baker ($245). It's perfect not-too-big/not-too-small size and outer pockets make this a sensible choice, though it's the contrast purple stitching that really pushes this one from "love" to "lust".
3. Trina Turk's indoor/outdoor pillows and linens. Trina's latest offerings in her nascent expansion into home goods are the epitome of Palm Springs cool. Trendy brights are paired with clean white in retro, yet on-trend geometric prints. I'll take one of each, please.
4. Restoration Hardware's Klismos collection. Speaking of outdoor decor, I'm drooling over Restoration Hardware's Klismos collection of outdoor furniture. [See? I'm not a total hater of RH, I promise!] The pieces feel modern with their matte gray finish and sleek lines, but the collection is grounded in classic shapes and forms, from the urn pedestal base of the dining table to RH's interpretation of the klismos (a Greek chair style marked by its curved back and legs). Of course, I'd perk up these pieces with some of Trina's pillows.
5. Stony gray espadrille wedges. Bettye Muller Menu Wedges (Piperlime, $195). For me, nothing says spring or summer like a pair of espadrilles. I love the sensible height of these wedges and the gorgeous putty gray color. As a bonus, these are sophisticated enough for the office (or at least mine).
6. The perfect pairing of color and scent. UK companies Jo Malone and Farrow&Ball have teamed up to create a new line of candles inspired by F&B's gorgeous paint colors. When Dave and I are in London in May, I'm going to have to swing by a Jo Malone outpost to get a nose on this new collection, but I'm already wild about the very idea of their Wild Fig and Cassis in Pelt. The aubergine hue is the natural choice for the warm, fruity (yet woodsy, thanks to the cedarwood) scent of fig and blackcurrants.
