Pretty in peasant
Designers went wild for free spiritedness and romance this season -- sending many a bohemian down the runway for spring. The look is finally trickling down to us average Joes, and one of the best places in town to find it right now is at the Limited.
Peasant skirts, crocheted tops, ruffled blouses and embroidered tunics abound and all at very reasonable prices. The "maiden dress" (pictured above) for $49 is one of the best yet. The detailing is of the moment but smaller in scale -- making it even more modern.
Available in Limited stores nationwide through July.
Scholl's new soles
The Dr. Scholl's exercise sandal is getting gussied up this summer. The new styles have daisies, toile, crabs, zebra stripes or any number of other great designs hand-painted all over their wooden bottoms.
Pampered Soles, the company responsible for the splashy painting, launched the product this winter. Courtney Bello, Amy Nichols and Chelsea Parrilla --all from Stonington, Conn. -- were starving for a way to start their own company and at the same time be creative. While growing up, they remembered their moms receiving hand-painted Dr. Scholl's as hostess gifts. They brought the idea back to life and are now selling the sandals at the Monogram Shop in Sparks and on the Web (www.pampered-soles.com).
The painted sandals are $120 and come with a terrycloth drawstring bag trimmed in grosgrain ribbon for storing them. For more information, call or visit the Monogram Shop in Sparks (410-472-4200).
A poisoned kisser
When one thinks of the word "venom," the first thing that usually comes to mind is "snake" -- or maybe your ex-boyfriend. But this venom is actually for your lips.
DuWop's Shades of Venom lip colors have a tingly hot and cold bite which is said to increase circulation to the lip area and help create a bee-stung look. The various shades are all named after poisonous plants: Angel Trumpet (pouty, sexy pink), Belladonna (true red), and Oleander (sheer, edgy orange) are three of the original six. All retail for $15 each.
Available at Nordstrom, www.duwoponline.com and high-end boutiques worldwide.
Pens and perfume
The folks at Mont Blanc have long been known for high-quality writing instruments, so it is fitting that when creating a perfume they aimed for one that epitomized luxury and confidence. The result is Presence, a men's fragrance that's subtle and elegant. Top notes of bergamot and cardamom add spice, while sage, sandalwood, and teak keep the scent understated. In a sleek curved container, it is also great for gift-giving.
Mont Blanc's Presence comes in an eau de toilette, $55 for 2.5 ounces, as well as in an aftershave, shower breeze, moisturizer and deodorant. It is available in Mont Blanc Boutiques and major department stores.
-- Mercedes Suarez