Hasta La Ideas

Win a head-to-toe Leifsdottir look styled by yours truly

Scandinavian label
Leifsdottir channels today’s “modern woman” with a mix of avant-garde cuts, gorgeously art-inspired patterns, a bold use of color and an approach to femininity that’s equal parts confident and seductive. So, when asked to participate in a video project documenting a day in the life of their shoes, I was happy to pick up the camera.

Apparently my fellow cinematographers (among them Susanna Lau of
Style Bubble and Tales of Endearment), had a similar idea, and (while my pedicure scenes must be on the cutting-room floor) the resulting video is a montage of feet making their way through their day, shot from the point of view of the wearer. Shoes fall in love, make a dinner table appearance and, in my case, play with some of NYC’s more charming sidewalks.

In addition to the video, Leifsdottir also asked me to style an outfit to go with the shoes. I opted to keep it simple with the sassy Tuxedo Jumpsuit, which nicely offsets the girly bows of the Ulrika sandals with its playful take on a masculine classic. You can win the shoes (though the style may vary) and one-piece by submitting your email in the below form. (See contest rules here.)

Four wet-weather accessories for staying dry while looking good

The bright spot in any rain-filled day is actually keeping dry. Below are four accessories we recently put to the test that will keep you from getting soaked without resorting to a yellow slicker, all through the rainy season.

Two-Tone Canvas Tote

Built By Wendy’s Two-Tone Canvas Tote is a roomy universal carryall for guys and girls alike. Made from Sunbrella fabric, the durable bag is stain- and sun-resistant and water wicks right off its surface. Leather corner protectors and a zippered top add details appropriate for toting laptops and other essentials anywhere from a business meeting to the park. An interior zippered pocket and pouch for mobile phones make for a great bag, rain or shine. Pick it up for $158 from Built By Wendy.

Papajo Print Umbrella

Originally designed by Annika Rimala in the 1960s, Marimekko’s Papajo print umbrella still adds a modern twist to any ensemble when Mother Nature makes an umbrella your best accessory. The automatic umbrella sells in black or red colorways from Marimekko stores for $50.

+J Shiny Gathered Parka

The fourth collection Jil Sander designed for Uniqlo includes a
jacket made from a thinner-than-thin nylon that packs down to nothing, and is cut with just enough feminine flair to keep you feeling flirty even when the weather is gnarly. While the brand only vouches that it’s water resistant, rain beaded right off in a recent downpour, and elastic at every edge, as well as a storm-flap covering the front zipper, adds extra protection. The jacket comes in four colors (I went for brilliant blue) and sells online and at Uniqlo stores for $70.

Loeffler Randall Rain Bootie

Loeffler Randall’s waterproof lace-up booties go from day to night without the look of a farmhand, like common Wellie styles. Lined with jersey cotton, the boots are also super comfortable, but Loeffler Randall’s trademark 33mm wedge gives a secret lift. Available in black or army green, the rain booties sell online for $165.