Effortless Chic

French women can be so stunning in such an unassuming way. My favorite part of visiting France is people watching, or more specifically, French women watching. (My husband likes it too!) 

 I like to call their style "effortless chic." The way they tie their scarves, or how they put an outfit together is just an innate talent. A great French designer who inspires me is Isabel Marant. If you haven't seen her clothes, be sure to take a look at them at www.net-a-porter.com. The outfit above features her Bradi black leather jacket, the perfect addition for a cool walk down the Champs-Elysee.

 Shown above is the casually sexy Alden one shouldered dress. I love everything..... the fabric, the cut, the ruffles and the skirt is the perfect length.

 Talk about an unexpected mix! Isabel's Joliet skirt is a witty counterpoint to her Fujiyama sweatshirt.  Can't you picture this ensemble on some cute young French girl leaving Lauduree with several macaroons in hand!

 The Adriana top shown above is a personal favorite.  I could also see it with white jeans and a leather jacket. Ooooh la la!

And, finally, you wouldn't be French without some fabulous fringed scarf to throw around (effortlessly of course!)

Warm Breezes Sure Trump Arctic Blasts!

Yes, this has been one of the coldest, snowiest winters in the U.S. which brings us to the topic of the Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas. We were recently introduced to this fabulous resort and some quick research convinced us that we should spread the word about it. You can find out more by visiting this link http://atlantis.com The buyers for the Atlantis resort stores bought a wide array of our spring/summer line. Our jewelry is just arriving there, so we thought we would take a closer look to see what they had to offer.

 The verdict is a definite thumbs up. Accommodations look fabulous.

This is a view of one of the many casinos on the property. Wouldn't you love to throw your money away here!

Sure looks like a great shopping destination.

Here are some of the pieces we just shipped there. If you are lucky enough to be able to plan a getaway, we heartily recommend the Atlantis Resort, Paradise Island, Bahamas!

Find out more about our jewelry here: www.myrnahalpern.com

My Super Bowl Picks

It's Super Bowl Sunday and this blog is not about football! Instead I prefer to take up the topic of all things super (as in superlative) in the realm of food and travel. 

My favorite restaurant (shown above) is Don Alfonso in Sant'Agata, Italy.

Not only is the restaurant itself I sight to behold, the food pictured above is truly superior. All superlatives apply. Be sure to take a tour of the wine cellar in the basement... jaw dropping.

http://www.donalfonso.com/ristorante.asp?lingua=ing

Super Bowl Pick for favorite vista would have to be the Ponte du Gard,  an ancient Roman aqueduct in Southern France. My favorite picnic spot... really!

Had to mention the Hotel Eden in Rome in my list of superlatives. Here is where I got permanently hooked on linen sheets. Note the view out the window.

http://www.dorchestercollection.com/en/rome/hotel-eden

For a change of pace, consider Harry's Bar in Vence, France. Yes France. Not Harry's Bar in Venice. The ambience is unparalleled and the morning espresso is superb. Couldn't find an exact picture, but this neighborhood photo gives you a feel for the setting. A 7 a.m. visit introduces you to the town alcoholics getting started for the day.

Finally the best place on earth to veg out, Port Townsend, Washington in the summer. This body of water is the area where Puget Sound opens into the Strait of Juan de Fuca,  a super spectacular site!

And as far as the Super Bowl, GO SEA HAWKS!