Hasta La Ideas

iBamboo is a natural speaker made from a single natural material, bamboo. The natural resonance of the bamboo amplifies the sound produced by the buil..

Vacuum cast chopped carbon fiber in aluminum mold.

how can an animal tell you the time? this clock uses the bold images of a variety of animals, with a cuckoo bird at 12 o’clock and a monkey swin..

Keep your iPad 2 safe on the go with one of these seven exceptional cases

Apple’s magnetic Smart Cover for the iPad 2 was a great addition to the tablet, but when it comes to preventing scratches and dings on the backside, a little more padding and a sprinkle of style never hurt anyone. As summer traveling comes to full swing, the real smart cover is one that doesn’t add too much bulk to the new streamlined design, while keeping your iPad tucked in tight as you board planes, trains and automobiles bound for weekend getaways or business trips. Below are six cases we think fit the bill.

AviiQ Smart Case

A companion to the Smart Cover, AviiQ’s hard aluminum and plastic Smart Case ($50) compliments the iPad 2 in every way, even matching Apple’s bold color palette. At 1.5mm thick, the case minimizes bulk and works with or without the smart cover

Casemate Walkabout

Casemate’s stylishly simple brown suede Walkabout folio ($50) snugly fits both the iPad 2 with the cover attached. Our test model came without the metal pieces on the top-closing flap, a simpler design, which we enjoyed.

Marware C.E.O. Hybrid

Combining a hardshell exterior with a soft fabric interior, Marware’s sturdy C.E.O. Hybrid case ($50) sports a professional look with equally functional features. Like the Smart Cover, the C.E.O. Hybrid’s lid puts the iPad 2 to sleep upon contact, wakes it up on removal, and doubles as a viewing stand. The additional hand strap is perfect for publicists managing the door or for reading briefs on the train.

Speck PixelSkin HD Wrap

Speck’s super slim PixelSkin HD Wrap ($50) is as close as you can get to not having a case at all, enveloping the iPad 2 like a glove. The cover stays securely shut with Speck’s “microsuction” system, which folds back into a stand similar to Apple’s Smart Cover. The wrap comes in pink, black and blue.

B&M iPad Sleeve

Made from super plush 100% German wool, B&M’s felt iPad sleeve ($39 AUD), though it may not be the most durable option and will pick up lint in your bag, is perfect for those who like to keep it streamlined. B&M keeps it simple with a cheerful range of colors to choose from and the case can snugly hold your iPad with the Smart Cover in place.

Kenton Sorenson iPad Sleeve

Kenton Sorenson‘s tan leather iPad sleeve ($125) is for anyone who appreciates the feel of raw leather and is a great contrast to the sleek design of the iPad. Like all raw leather products the case will develop a nice patina with age, showing the unique character of its owner. The case nicely fits the iPad 2 with the Smart Cover and is sure to turn heads in the boardroom.

Brenthaven Prostyle Sleeve

A leather case complete with a faux fur interior lining and handy side pocket, Brenhaven’s Prostyle Sleeve ($80) is a well-executed design that takes the standard sleeve up a notch. The case’s zipper keeps the iPad or iPad 2 safe, and the pocket is great for storing an iPhone or cords and chargers.

A master of needlepoint designs exclusive belts for everyone’s favorite Olympics-inspired retailer

Inspired since 2007 to bring color to corporate America with whimsical belts looped around the waists of businessmen, Washington, D.C. Tucker Blair is now teaming up with New York-based retailer, Opening Ceremony. Their collection of belts for men and women is a perfect marriage of Tucker Blair’s artistry with embroidered leather belts and Opening Ceremony’s emphasis on creativity.

Among the collection’s five designs is a particularly fitting belt featuring various colorful flags. This international motif references Opening Ceremony’s mission of celebrating the work of designers and artists abroad. The other designs include a standard leopard print, an eye-catching geometric pattern and perhaps the most adventurous, quirky white rabbits prancing across a black scene.

Beginning 15 July 2011, snag one of these snazzy, limited-edition needlepoint belts at Opening Ceremony’s New York and Los Angeles locations or at Ace Hotel in NYC. Otherwise, visit Opening Ceremony’s website to purchase one online for $110.