long beach: the a**es over elbows edition

i forgot how much i love an early evening nap after a day at the beach.

and anyone who tried to fight the waves today surely earned a good, long one. the waves were fearsome and strong, and most beach-folk stayed tight to the shore. the dozen or so who ventured out kept the lifeguards whistling all afternoon.

it's not unusual for me to get knocked down or sideways by a wave or two, but today i got flipped over, in stuff that was only a couple of feet deep.

FUN.

***

vintage

late summer 2010

sun day 2010: north beach, sandy hook, nj

all photos © anita aguilar

read a good poem: pura vida

this is where we should be, yes?

(¡Pura vida! —Costa Rican phrase for "O.K." or "Great!")

Such heat! It brings the brain back to its basic blank.
Small, recurrent events become the daily news—
the white-nosed coati treading the cecropia's
bending thin branches like sidewalks in the sky,
the scarlet-rumped tanager flitting like a spark
in the tinder of dank green, the nodding palm leaves
perforated like Jacquard cards in a code of wormholes,
the black hawk skimming nothingness over and over.

What does the world's wide brimming mean, with hunger
the unstated secret, dying the proximate reality?
Con mucho gusto—the muchness extends to the stars,
as wet and numerous as larvae underground
where the ants in their preset patterns scurry and nurture,
and the queen, immobilized, pours forth her eggs
in the dark. We are far from oaks and stoplights,
from England's chill classrooms and Tuscany's paved hills.

For thought is a stridulation, an insect sizzling,
knit of the moment's headlines and temperate-zone quips,
viable in the debris of our rotting educations,
that thatch where peer-groups call each to each in semes
ecosystematically. Great God Himself
wilts with a rise in temperature, a drop in soil acidity,
a new language in its grimacing opacity.
The brain's dry buzz revives, a bit, as evening falls.

--john updike

photos (philippines, 2009) © anita aguilar

oh say can you see...

the humanity?

i've been excited to see jones beach for the first time (as an adult) after i read that it's listed on the national register of historic places. but i can't say i wasn't a little afraid that it was going to be a bit too full and too spirited on the 4th of july.

and it was crowded, but not impossible to find spot for an umbrella and a big towel. and the beach soundtrack was right for the occasion--waves, wind, laughter and a little bit of whatever latin/r & b the new york masses are listening to now-- at a level that allowed for some good reading...but mostly, good napping.

the water was c-c-c-cold, but invigorating in brief forays.

love boricua beach style: matching fishnet tops

this was really the only shot i tried to take of the architectural features. the water tower is under construction, people were lined up against the boardwalk railings...and mary and i had quite a but of stuff between us, including a cooler the size of my bathtub... i'll save the real picture-taking for the off-season.

see fine pictures: bon jour...mlle. seberg

from bon jour tristesse...a super-stylish but otherwise mediocre melodrama.

photographed by the famed hollywood photographer, bob willoughby...

another bob willoughby shot from bjt...i love the light here. classic.

a favorite from breathless (which i actually only know from stills).

cousin joey calls her "mesmerizing" in breathless. this shot is his favorite.

sugar, sweet, sunshine

on a favorite day of the year, a shot of my favorite tree in madison square park...

i've always liked that my birthday falls on the summer solstice--the longest day of the year, the first day of summer. everyone seems automatically happy, anticipating the most carefree season...

i wasn't unhappy in the days leading up to my birthday this year, but i was sort of feeling the weight of everything that is unsettled...

the festivities officially started a day early--combo father's day celebration. mom, dad and sister came into the city for brunch. we went to artisanal--perhaps the best neighborhood choice for special occasions and visits--and then hung around at the apartment. it was exactly like most sundays we have together (couch time, story time, baseball and nap time for dad) except it was happening in a much "cozier" (read: smaller) setting. oh, and there were presents. very nice presents.

after they left in the early afternoon, my mood was different--happy and calm. i realized then and in the days that followed how lucky i am for everything that is settled, especially family and friends who are my constant.

it was a true happy birthday.

***

and there was a lot of food:

airy beignets leave a beard of sugar...

sausage and egg (before)

oooh boudin blanc, most tender. served with a bed of lentils...

a trio of ice creams: blackberry cardamom, fennel (yes, fennel!), and coffee...

and bright and fresh strawberry-rhubarb soup, served with a frozen vanilla yogurt. this is summer, all the way...

i "made" this.

***

at maialino, on the monday morning...

brioche caramellato...a dainty, upscale cinnabon.

i wouldn't have minded a more generous serving...

***

impromptu afternoon snack, with sister, at the reliable le pain q....

black hummus, spicy tahini...

and a giant almond meringue.

it was very good, but i was blind afterwards. so much sugar...

inspiration: sky and summer

via a desert rat:

Local Natives "World News" from Monte Lomax on Vimeo.

oh oh oh oh oh oh oh oh oh oh oh oh

the sky...

a red camera at its brightest.

the cameramen i know don't love this cam for "talkies" or documentaries, but it's looking pretty good for music videos...

(between you and me, i would change what the boys are wearing. but it's what the cool kids dig these days...)

Best Handbag Picks for Spring Summer 2010

Spring and summer bring us a mixture of colors, raffia, flowers and emotions and a lot of fun which you can’t mix up with other seasons of the year.

A rectangular or square handbag is definitely THE shape of 2010. A box clutch or a rectangular shopper in Rafia (like the Fendi Twins Woven Raffia Shopper below) is a perfect pick for this Summer.

Prints and Colourful Bags are another big trends for Spring Summer Handbags.

Best Summer Bags are totes, they are versatile, chic, casual and practical. This season, totes aren't just canvas anymore. Look for totes in raffia, bright colors, square shapes, and with details like embellishments, exposed zippers and envelope flap closures.

Browse below for our top picks.
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Multi-purpose Spring Summer Best Tote Picks
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1. Fendi Twins Woven Raffia Shopper for £1,540 UK and $2,560 USA: Complete a weekend look with Fendi's sand glazed woven raffia shopper with black handles. Carry this super-sized style by the detachable strap or by the handles to accent an elegant off-duty outfit.

2. Lanvin Raffia Cabas large tote for £1,075: Add a luxe nautical accent to your wardrobe with Lanvin's navy raffia tote. Carry it by the gold-tone rope-effect chain straps to infuse a simple weekend look with signature chic. It works day or night with a ultra-feminine skirt or sundress or with blazer and denims for the evening.


3. Gap Foldover Canvas Tote $39.50: Amazing washed prints that pop, a deep pocket to store everyday essentials, straps that were made to be stylishly slung over the shoulder--we can't get enough of this slouchy bag. Comes in four different prints.


4. Miu Miu Canvas Tote for £750: Breeze into summer with Miu Miu's natural canvas tote with gold-tone hardware. Carry this new-season style staple by the top handles or detachable shoulder strap for a laidback look. This chic tote will complement both a pretty sundress and personalize sleek office separates.

5. Gap Slouchy Washed Hobo for $39.50: Fashion meets function in this canvas tote. Its generous size will care of all your carrying needs and the brown accents and striped lining add that extra pop of style that every bag needs. It's perfect for the beach but chic enough to carry it to lunch or shopping. Perfect summer accessory.

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Prints and Colours - Handbag Trends Summer 2010

Bring a burst of colours or play with prints, with the colourful and printed handbag trend this summer. Among the colours this season, blue is a definite must have of the spring-summer 2010 season, particularly the denim bags.

Prints surely will add some definition to your look, pair a simple Little White Dress with a printed bag for a playful look, to create an haute flirty look River Island's Corsage Bag (below) willbe you perfect pick.
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1. Juicy Couture Croc Velour Day Dreamer Bag for £181

2. Diane von Furstenberg Beach Glazed Canvas Tote for £60

3. Irregular Choice Floral Clutch for £29.99

4. Oasis Plaited Handle Shoulder Bag for £35

5. Mango Denim Shopper Bag for £45, also available in orange.

6. River Island Raffia Embellised Corsage Bag for £34.99

..
Spring/Summer Clutch Bag Picks

When the lights go down, the iridescent, mesmerizing shine comes up. These clutch bags are your perfect evening companions.
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1. Reiss Leica Mini Weave Shoulder Bag: A perfect evening bag for evey season, but high for Summers with its woven design. Reiss black and gold clutch is an exquisite way to carry your essentials at night. Carry it as the only adornment to a tailored cocktail look.

2. Miu Miu Lurex jeweled shoulder bag for $950 US and £560 UK: Miu Miu's multicolored jacquard shoulder bag with a gold Lurex finish and smoke crystal-embellished shoulder strap is an evening treasure. Wear this fabulous accessory with a simple cocktail dress and glossy high heels.

3. Stella McCartney Embroidered sequined clutch for $1,025 US and £615 UK: Find new ways to wear your sparkle with Stella McCartney's brown canvas clutch with multicolored floral sequin embellishment. With internal compartments for cash and cards, this vibrant extra is the perfect way to work double duty dazzle. Carry it against an LBD and complement with red or pink metallic heels for a vibrant color combination

4. Ted Baker Tazmin Evening Clutch for £59: TedBaker's black silk cluth with gold hardware is the perfect partner to a tailored evening outfit or a minimilistic chic look. Team it with pants and a shirt to add a touch of femininity to an androgynous look o wear it with your Little White Dress for the evening cocktail.

5. Reiss Beck Enamel Stud Shoulder Bag for £95: Reiss's embellished shoulder bag with all over high shine studded frame design and gold effect tassel and shoulder chain strap is an exquisite accent. Carry it in the palm of your hand or by the gold-tone chain for the ultimate in indulgent glamour.

BEST BUDGET BUY

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French Connection's Sunrise Weave Clutch is the best budget buy. This woven straw clutch is perfect for the Summers with its simple and chic looks and the woven straw stripe design. Carry it in the evenings or day, its a perfect bag that would go with your summer dress, or cocktail dress and even can be carried to the office. Available at £20, click here to buy.

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Related Posts:
Spring/Summer 2010 Trends and Must Haves
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Chic in the Heat
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Chic in the Heat

Summer brings sunshine, and you can finally break out your miniskirts and brights.

But dressing for the varieties of summer activities, from beaches to air-conditioned offices and cinemas to barbecues, to poolside cocktail parties can be daunting. It requires a fair amount of creativity and strategy.

Summer Essentials:

A printed dress, a basic shift cardigans galore, a smart tote, a flat sandal or a cork wedge and oversize sunglasses will take you from the beach to a five-star in style.

- Sundress: They're light, summer hued, comfy and airy. Nothing can beat the heat like a nice summer dress. It's not only fashionable but your respite from the callous heat. Wear a nice summer dress in white or the hot neutral hues and accessorise with necklaces or go for floral or tribal prints. Make sure you pick the right fabric, cottons or linen, to beat the heat ad keep you cool.

- Cardigans or smart blazers: darting in and out of air conditioning can attest to the frustration of runnin hot and cold. Smart cardigans in array of colours or stylish blazers (boyfriend blazers are huge this season) are your saviour and summer staples.

- Oversize Sunglasses: Yes, a nice pair of oversized sunglasses are a total must-have for Summers. Not only they immediately upgrade your glam factor but also protect your eyes and the delicate areas around your eyes from the harmful UV rays.

- Roomy Bag: Summer requires your bag to have the extra space to fit in your glasses, sunscreen, facial spritz, gloss, wallet and a small bottle of water. It's useful to have something roomy like a smart tote.


Colours Trends for Spring Summer 2010

White - White spells class, serenity and SUMMER!!!!! No spring/summer wardrobe is complete without the soothing whites. The summery white does the trick of cooling you off and bringing in the chic to your look. Come Summer and a LWD replaced the LBD, wear all white monochromatic look or add a punch of colour to your ensemble using brights. At the very least, a crisp white shirt should be on top of your shopping list.

L-R: Michael Kors, Fendi and Gucci

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Blush - This ultra-feminine shade is THE COLOUR OF THE SEASON. The pastel shade works for all skin tones, giving fair to dark complexions a rosy glow. It looks best when paired with soft neutral separates during the day and bright iridescent accessories at night. Experiment with lace or chiffon or for a more statement look pick a blush-colored dress or blouse with embellishments. Other neutral hues like nudes, beiges are also in this season. Wear them with the same mantra as Blush and remember playing with layers and textures and mixing the neutral hues would look great.
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Helena Christensen and Sarah Jessica Parker in Stella McCartney Blush Dress

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Acid Yellow - Most of the girls would probably shy away with the thought of adding yellow to their wardrobe, but don't let Acid Yellow intimidate you. Make a sunny statement in a neon shift paired with heather grey sandals and a matching clutch. The color even works at the office—brighten a dark suit with a lemon-kissed camisole or a blouse with a splash of citrine. While acid yellow looks ideal against olive and dark skin tones, fairer complexions can opt for softer versions of the eye-catching hue.


Related Posts:
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"too hot" (and read a good poem/wild for my melon toddie)

i like the groove of the original track but this live version is fun...

i've been spending most of these last few dog days indoors, practicing my picture-taking, summer cleaning, and reading "hot, flat, and crowded"-- which i thought would be the super-clever title of a post that i planned to write from (or about our family trip to) the philippines. but it was really not so very hot there at all. and it was not really so very crowded as, at least for the first week, we were virtually the only guests at a sprawling golf resort...

the pool at malarayat golf resort...july 2009...

i did make it out to greenpoint on saturday to share some birthday cheer with my friend, reid, aka "rad reid," a bona fide philly soul if there ever was one. i indulged in a few refreshing servings of watermelon soaked in vodka. sweet! and no hangover. though i did have a crazy two-part dream that involved one very handsome writer/editor friend...and i woke up with my bedsheet wrapped around me like a toga...

***
in the spirit of that melon "toddie," i'll share a poem from virginia hamilton adair.
i've re-printed one of her poems here once before and i'll happily re-link to the pbs online newshour interview that introduced me to her work. enjoy.

Ants on the Melon

Once when our blacktop city

was still a topsoil town

we carried to Formicopolis

a cantaloupe rind to share

and stooped to plop it down

in their populous Times Square

at the subway of the ants

and saw that hemisphere

blacken and rise and dance

with antmen out of hand

wild for their melon toddies

just like our world next year

no place to step or stand

except on bodies.

read a good poem: the way though

before the storm...same time, last year.

my friends have started to complain about all the june rain.

i don't think i'll ever tire of it. i love the before, during, and after a summer storm. fast moving clouds, swirly winds, people scurrying for shelter. me, in my duck boots.


***

the way through (1954)

let the rain plunge radiant
through sulky thunder
rage on rooftops

let it scissor and bounce its denials
on concrete slabs and black
roadways. flood the streets. it's much

but not enough, not yet: persist,
rain, real rain, sensuous,
swift, released from

vague skies, the tedium

up there.

under scared bucking trees

the beach road washed out -

trying to get by on the verge
is no good, earth crumbles into the
brown waterfall, but he backs up

the old car again and CHARGES.

the water flies in the halfwit's eyes

who didn't move fast enough

"who do you think i am, a horse?"

but we made it--

drown us, lose us

rain, let us loose, so,
to lose ourselves, to career
up the plunge of the hill.

--denise levertov
from the new american poetry, 1945-1960

***

favorite line:
trying to get by on the verge
is no good

UPDATES ON PREVIOUS POSTS

Spring/Summer 2009 Buys - Straw Tote added
Straw Bags are just perfect for summer . They just scream summer and lazy days at the beach. And this season, more and more of the straw handbags are looking refined and down right stylish. Click here to read more and buy your perfect Straw Tote.

Handbags for Spring/Summer 2009 - handbag picks added with links
Perfect Spring Summer Bags added to the post with links from where you can buy them. Get these perfect Summer Bags to update your wardrobe. Tory Burch ultra stylish Bag, Oasis pink delight, Bensimon Tote for the gym.

Trend Watch - White Jeans
New Pictures Added of Celebrities in White Jeans (Kim Kardashian in Siwy Jeans - white shredded jeans). Click here for more.

Snow White in Summer
Lauren Conrad in all White Ensemble, looking great in her casual yet stylish look. Pictures Added. Click here to read more and check out Lauren Conrad's pictures.


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Summer Office Wear

Summer is around and its time to bring out your summer office clothes (or shop for them!!!). Some women are lucky enough working in the office where they can work in tees and vintage 50s dresses and beat the sun. While some of us have to maintain the 'formal office code', which may leave with little room for summer wear that would be formal.

But not to worry, you can be clad formally yet chill out in the heat.

And I personally think that you should be dressed formally in the office, as it brings in different kind of energy and professionalism to your work.

In summer, it is most important to feel cool and comfortable. And even if you have an AC in the office, commuting to and from the office can be really uncomfortable. Thus clothes made from cool fabrics like cotton and linen are very practical for summer office wardrobe. They let your skin breathe and does not block the air flow, which is a must for the summer.
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Linen Trousers
Linen trousers are light and airy, and are perfect for the summers. Pick a smart pair of linen trousers this summer; a pair of white linen trousers would be the perfect choice for the summery look. And if you're afraid to wear the white, you can never go wrong with Black. If you are tall and lean, go for wide-legged comfortable trousers in linen or even cotton.

Florals and Bright Colours
Yup, they are the best to beat the summer heat with the life they bring to your look. Get a floral shift knee-length dress for the office, you could pair it with a smart linen jacket to add the business-like tinge to the look. Don't wear tropical looking florals, as if you've just come from the Bahamas. You can also team along a floral scarf or printed tops for a feminine summery look without going overboard. Or else, go for brightly coloured dress or a shirt (not too bright, as it will distract others).

Monochrome
Monochromatic look is a huge trend for 2009 and that's a great news for the office-goers, as that's what we generally end up wearing to the office. Pick colours that would keep you cool, whites, green, natural tans or nudes, pink, khakhi. Avoid black as it absorbs heat, pick deep blues, browns and greys instead. The best part about the monochromatic look is it makes you look slimmer. Check out Look Slimmer with Smart Dressing.

White Shirt
No summer office wardrobe would be complete without a white shirt. The colour makes you feel cooler and calmer. Plus, a white shirt is a very versatile piece of clothing.

Cardigan
Replace the shirt with some comfortable and modern cardigan. There is a huge variety of cotton knitwear in the stores in so many different shapes and colorus. And most of the offices accept them as formal wear. Pair it with formal trousers to stay in the corporate code. Team a decent camisole or vest and a short-sleeved cardi. It would be a lot more comfortable than a shirt. If a collared-shirt is the rule of the office, then pair sleeveless collared cami or shirt with the cardi. Add a scarf or necklace to complete the look. It would look smart and will be comfortable on those hot days.

Layering
Most importantly, remember to dress in layers, as the difference in the temperature of your air conditioned office and outdoors can be as huge as 25-30 degrees. A nice cardigan, a cotton jacket or a formal vest or waistcoat is a great way to layer your office ensemble. But avoid too much layering.

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Source, Source, Source

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Summer Office Wear Tips

- Yup its the season that would make you sweaty and uncomfortable. But strictly avoid shorts, mini-skirts, tank tops and low-cut or sheer blouses, flip-flops or chappals in the office. Don't wear anything too revealing. It may get you attention, but will certainly create a wrong impression.

- Linen, cotton and other lightweight fabrics generally tend to be sheer. Check your reflection under bright lighting to make sure your undergarments don't show through.

- Even if you dress down, make sure you keep a jacket or cardigan handy to cover you up when your boss or an important client calls for an emergency meeting or if the temperature is dropping because of AC.

- Pay attention to your feet. If your company allows open-toe or backless shoes, make sure your feet and toenails are clean and well-groomed. Pamper yourself with a good pedicure regularly especially during summers.

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Store Guide:
1 - I.N. San Francisco Grey Jacket for $42, click here to buy
2 - Oasis White Linen Trousers for $45, click here to buy
3 - Paul Smith Scarf for£132, click here to buy
4 - Forever 21 Mustard Belt for $9, click here to buy
5 - BCX White Shirt for $20 (was $36), click here to buy
6 - Flower Brooch from ASOS for £12, click here to buy
7 - Patent Faux Leather Belt for $15, click here to buy
8 - Threaded Bangle for $25, click here to buy
9 - Matt and Nat bag for £175, click here to buy
For smart cardigan in bright blue (£18), click here
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Related Posts and Articles:
Stylish and Smart Dressing for the Office
Handbags for Spring/Summer 2009
Get Dotty - Dots are Hot this Season
What not to wear to work
Bangles - the hot fashion accessory
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