This & That: No. 120
~App
~Vivino
Part of the reason I love living with vineyards basically in my backyard (Walla Walla) is because I am able to taste the wine before I buy it. As all wine lovers know, each vintage tastes different based on a variety of factors, so knowing that what you are spending will be worth it is worth paying a little bit more for. But now, there is a way to make better purchases when you don’t have the luxury to taste first. The Vivino app. Introduced to me last month, I was amazed how quick and easy this app works. Merely place your phone’s camera over the wine bottle label, and it will search the database, pulling up reviews, ratings and more to give you an idea of the wine you are considering purchasing. It’s free, so why not?
~Book
~2 A.M. at The Cat’s Pajamas
Set in Philadelphia at a legendary jazz club, three characters come to together for one amazing, unforgettable night: a rambunctious nine-year-old who dreams of being a jazz singer, a fifth grade teacher who has returned to her hometown in search of love after a bitter divorce and the owner of the club who is struggling to keep it afloat. With impressive reviews from critics, Bertino’s debut novel is one I’m looking forward to reading before summer ends . . . after all, when you mention jazz, I’m all ears.
~Decor
~The White Company
A few week’s ago, a reader brought to my attention the quality, luxury store that is The White Company. Founded in London, there are more than a handful of stores shoppers can visit, but you can also shop online in the UK and the US. As the name suggests, nearly everything is white – from linens, to clothing to kitchen dishes. Remembering back to my trip to London two years ago, I can recall stepping inside one of their stores near Notting Hill, and instantly feeling I had found my utopia. I wanted so much to purchase various dishes, but knew it probably wouldn’t be wise. Needless to say, I’m thrilled to have easy access to them online, and I think you will too.
~Shopping
~Geometry Leather Handbags and Clutches
Have you become deterred from shopping for designer handbags due to their exorbitant prices? You want quality leather, but you don’t want to mortgage your home? Believe me, I understand. I have a wonderful discovery. Geometry leather offers top quality Italian leather clutches and totes without the luxury price tag. Made exclusively in the United States, these limited edition bags are absolutely beautiful and well-crafted. I recently purchased their Foldover Pouch in Blush (check my Instagram for pics this weekend), and was absolutely impressed with the quality – supple leather, beautiful color and ideal size (the pouch is designed for an iPad, but can work ideally for evenings out).
And even better news, I have an exclusive opportunity for TSLL readers – you can save 20% off any of their handbags when you use this promo code – RSTYLE20. Don’t wait if you find an item you love as they make only a handful of each style.
~The Real Real
Speaking of refusing to pay full price for designer items, as you know I’m a fan of consignment, and The Real Real, is the place to shop online for amazing luxury items at a fraction of the price. Even better, if you have items you want to consign, you can sell your clothing (and art)with The Real Real as well. Below are a just a few discoveries I found yesterday from Chanel flats, a Louis Vuitton clutch and Tory Burch navy flats for only $95. The best part is the quality and price, the catch – there’s only one of each.
~Television
~Poirot
Attention all British television fans, Adrian Monk fans and/or cozy mystery fans. Many of you probably already know about Hercule Poirot, but if you are like me and have just been introduced to him this summer, you are in for a treat, followed by an immediate . . . already! Agatha Christie’s famed Belgium detective, concludes in the 13th season this August – the first two of five episodes were aired on PBS’ Masterpiece Mysteries and the final three are airing exclusively on Acorn TV ($4.99/mo).
With now 70 episodes, his delightful poise, intelligence and gentleman approach is something I never tire of, and his adorable idiosyncrasies – the cut of his hair, his simple, yet proper style and of course his mustache – have me immediately thinking of Monk (I wonder, was Poirot the inspiration for Adrian?). The actor who has played Poirot since 1989, shares his insight, his careful attention to Agatha Christie’s true intent of the character and much more in his interview with The New York Times here. Needless to say, sit down, pour a cup of tea and enjoy, and be sure to start with Season 1
August 15th is not just an ordinary day. It is Julia Child’s birthday (102nd), and so, I hope to find time this weekend to step into the kitchen, laugh at my mistakes and enjoy the art that is cooking for oneself and others. With the rain that has been falling lately, I have been thoroughly enjoying the time to cook in the kitchen without worries of literally heating up the house, so we’ll see what I come up with.
In the meantime, here are some articles I think you might enjoy reading . . .
~The power of truly resting on our vacations this summer – read this – your brain will thank you.
~Looking to take a trip to Washington D.C. this upcoming fall or spring? Apartment #34 takes readers on a tour and I’m taking notes.
~Emma Ferrer aka Audrey Hepburn’s granddaughter shines on the September cover of Harper’s Bazaar – see and read more here.
~Another reason to find your own signature style and refuse to imitate – Vogue takes a look at Lauren Bacall’s Timeless Signature Look
Have a lovely weekend, and until Monday, bonjour.
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