Reader Survey

Hello, Ladies and Gentlemen, and happy Monday morning! In just over a month, What We Covet will celebrate its first birthday. As we approach that milestone, we'd like to get a better sense of who is reading What We Covet and why. If you're willing, please comment on this post telling us what you think about the layout, the content, and the frequency of posts from both Cate and Maureen. Suggestions are also welcome. If you have a great deal to say or would rather others not see your comments, feel free to send an email to whatwecovet@gmail.com. It is our goal to make this the best blog possible, and your help would be much appreciated.

Thanks so much,

-Cate and Maureen-

The Stars Are Out Tonight

Last year, I very briefly mentioned the Jimmy Choo Candy clutch. Today, in honor of the glamfest that is the Academy Awards, I thought I would revisit that clutch a little more in-depth.

You see, I know that the Academy Awards are meant to be super-luxe and all that, and there's nothing wrong with that. In fact, I think it's nice that so many people have a specific reason to dress themselves up as much as possible. It's all so glamorous! But I also feel that one needs a fun touch from time to time, and rather than coming across as severely austere, why not add this cute, bold touch to your outfit? It would pair well with a white dress, a la Courtney Love's amazing gown from the 1997 ceremony, or perhaps even Julia Roberts' black and white vintage Valentino from 2001. At the very least, you could carry it to an after-party, right? That's where the real celebration happens, anyway!

Buy through Net-a-Porter for $550.00.

Image via Net-a-Porter.

-Cate-

These Shoes, like a Red, Red Rose

We all need a good glitter shoe now and then, right? Of course I am. Today, the one I'm coveting is a literal ruby slipper, and a highly affordable one, at that, from Charlotte Russe:

No, it's not Halloween, and Valentine's Day has passed us by, but I'm sure that we could each find a way to use these lovelies. My way would be to pair them with a dark purple Grecian-style dress and a black clutch, plus some chandelier earrings. What's yours?

Buy through Charlotte Russe for $32.50.

Image via Charlotte Russe.

-Cate-

People We Covet: Dick van Dyke

As far as triple threats go, a few spring to mind immediately. There's Liza Minnelli, of course, and Julie Andrews, among many others. Above all, as far as I'm concerned, is Julie Andrews' Mary Poppins costar, Dick van Dyke. To be precise, he's actually a quadruple threat: he can sing, dance, and act, and, as it turns out, he's funny as hell (witness the entirety of The Dick van Dyke Show, many episodes of which are available to watch on Hulu).

Personally, Dick van Dyke will always remain one of my favorites on the strength of "Step In Time" alone:

I mean, really--he's simply unparalleled among physical comedians, which shines through in his elastic-limbed dance moves. For more evidence, check out "Me Old Bamboo" from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang:

Van Dyke is just fantastic. And the level of energy he sustains through these routines is astounding. How can you NOT admire such a showman? 

Checking out episodes of The Dick van Dyke Show in my free time is one of my great pleasures, and I will watch one of van Dyke's films any time I get a chance. Mary Poppins is my favorite. Which is yours?

-Cate-

A New Wave

One thing I don't have in my apartment is a good vase. The only vase I own is a crappy pink mercury glass thing, the origins of which I have forgotten. And, to tell the truth, I have nowhere to put anything nicer; the effect would be one hundred percent incongruous. But if I were to invest in one, I think I'd have to go with this:

I love the deco styling and the barely-there color. The vase would coordinate well with many types of decor, and would fit in especially well with a beachy palette or a bright one that needs a subdued touch. I'd set it on a credenza in a foyer, if only I had either of those things. Where would you put it?

Buy through the Russian Store for $48.49.

Image via the Russian Store.

-Cate-

A Flourish

I'm pretty picky about the pens I use for writing. They have to have a certain weight, and the ink has to come out smoothly every time. That's why I stick with the Pilot Precise V5. But I've found a pen that might make me change my mind, if for no other reason than I adore the way it looks:

It's pink! It's a faux-quill pen! It's FANTASTIC! Wouldn't it be a great thing to have on hand? (See what I did there?)

Buy through Plasticland for $6.79.

Image via Plasticland.

-Cate-

When Night Falls

One of my new favorite things to look at is the So Insomnight collection from Baccarat. The lines are clean and long, the stones lovely. Their rings are especially intriguing to me, and I absolutely adore the Sterling Blue Mordore:

The stone is so clear, and the split-shank ring so simple, that I can't help staring a little bit. I imagine I could wear this on a night at the theater, or maybe to a black-tie party. If only those things ever happened to me, I'd buy it in a heartbeat!

Buy through Baccarat for $495.00.

Image via Baccarat.

-Cate-

Snake Bite

Although Talbots is generally known for its classic American clothes, they've recently produced quite a few lovely handbags, as well. One in particular strikes me as nearly perfect: the Au Natural snake-embossed leather hobo bag. It is a lovely pale pinky almond color, and the embossing is delicate, to the point where you don't notice it from a distance, yet it's still a wonderful touch. Since the bag is so spacious, you'll be able to tote all of your essentials, and since the bag is practically a neutral color, it'll go with almost any outfit you put together. Check it out today!

Buy through Talbots for $159.00.

-Cate-

Wrapped in Black

We all know that Betsey Johnson's designs tend to be pretty in-your-face, right? Right. I mean, her designs tend to resemble Lisa Frank on crack. Every once in awhile, though, she pulls back to create something streamlined and spectacular. For example, there's the Eunice shoe:

It's almost a bandage skirt for your feet: visually interesting, yet delightfully restrained. If your work environment is receptive to fashion experimentation, you might even be able to wear these babies to the next office meeting!

Buy through Betsey Johnson for $165.00.

Image via Betsey Johnson.

-Cate-

Minimalism

Awhile back, there was a contest over at Worth1000 for the best minimalist movie poster. Unfortunately, I don't remember how it came to my attention, but I do know that many of the entries left a huge impression on me, to the point where I wish these had been the actual posters for the films represented so I could order them and hang them on my wall. I mean, I'm sure any Luc Besson afficionado would love to have this hanging in the living room, right?

Tell me that isn't genius. 

But my personal favorite is the one dreamed up for Silence of the Lambs:

It's perfect, capturing both the unnerving discussions that pepper the film and Clarice's uncertainty in the presence of Hannibal Lecter. If only I could get my hands on either of these!

Check out the entire contest here. My honorable mentions go to the entries for Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, E.T., Terminator, Zoolander, and Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief.

Images via Worth1000.

-Cate-

Walk like an Egyptian

When I was little--and even now--I was incredibly intrigued by Egypt. The pharaohs, the pyramids, and the artwork captured my imagination. Some of the things I loved to study are embodied in this cute little vintage pin:

How cute is that? It would make a perfect gift for someone who's been to Egypt and longs to go back, someone who loves desert imagery, or--best of all--some new little girl who dreams of visiting that far-off land someday.

Buy through GirlProps for $5.99.

Image via GirlProps.

-Cate-

Wackadoo

Although it may be vulgar and unladylike, today I'm coveting this necklace by Patricia Field:

Because sometimes, that's all you can really say. You know? The unfortunate thing is that there are so few places in which you could actually get away with wearing this. The classroom? No. Work? Absolutely not. Maybe a baseball game, if you're lucky enough to encounter an extremely unfair ump. But even then, I wouldn't count on it. Still, I do appreciate the sentiment. What about you?

Buy through Patricia Field for $48.00.

Image via Patricia Field.

-Cate-

PS My apologies to Maureen's mom, who doesn't approve of my bad language (and rightly so, I might add).

Peekers

In doing my research for this blog, I've discovered that there are some really hideous handbags lurking about this world, some of which have even managed to become extremely popular. (I'm looking at you, Rocco.) But it's nice to know that I'll always be able to look at--though probably never purchase--the Fendi Peekaboo. Right now, the magenta version has me hooked:

The image may be small, but the style can't be contained. Just think of how much the full-sized bag could brighten your day! I know it's already fixed mine.

Buy through Neiman Marcus for $2,550.00.

Image via Neiman Marcus.

-Cate-

Nice Stems

Believe it or not, Victoria's Secret is not just in the business of selling cute underthings. In addition to their lingerie offerings, they have a great array of clothing and shoes. A few days ago, I stumbled across these and kind of fell in love a little bit:

Although they're a little too tall--that's a five-inch heel with a one-inch platform, ladies--I think that the floral pattern is a wonderful, adorable, and simple way to incorporate a little spring into your life without causing a ruckus. Plus, given the array of colors in the pattern, you could pair this shoe with multiple outfits. The best news is that, at $68.00, they're downright affordable. Consider incorporating these lovelies into your wardrobe today!

Buy through Victoria's Secret for $68.00.

Image via Victoria's Secret.

-Cate-

Hounds of Light

There are a few things I really want to be. For example, I want to be a candle girl. But, sadly, I'm really not. I buy them, and then I never burn them. More often than not, I just forget I have them. If, however, I had a couple of these around the house, I might never stop attempting to create some mood lighting:

How. Awesome. Is. That.

I'm a huge fan of houndstooth anyway, and this votive holder would give me a way of incorporating it into my everyday life without going overboard. And while the pattern may strike you as a little too dark for Spring, it strikes me as a home run for the entire year.

Buy through Lekker Home for $17.50 each.

Image via Lekker Home.

-Cate-

White Out

Allow me to preface this post by saying that I am not at all a fan of Hot Topic as a store, but every once in awhile, they have some spectacular accessory that really works. Today, that accessory is this plain white belt:

I mean, look at those clean lines. It's fabulous! Pair it with some dark jeans, throw it around a dress to cinch your waist, or wear it with black dress pants to create some nice contrast. No matter which way, it's sure to look chic!

Buy through Hot Topic for $16.00.

Image via Hot Topic.

-Cate-

Roses Are Red

If you're facing the possibility of spending Valentine's Day alone, don't worry--you're not the only one. We are legion. But why not grab the opportunity to treat yourself for once? Here's a nice way to get a rose without waiting for a guy to bring one your way: the Rose Ring at Fred Flare.

It's available in both red and pink. And though it may sound cheesy, it is totally true that the greatest relationship you have is with yourself. This ring will serve as an everlasting reminder of that simple fact.

Buy through Fred Flare for $12.00.

Image via Fred Flare.

-Cate-

It Blue Me Away

I am. IN LOVE. With this bag:

In fact, it's been a long time since I thought this much about any particular handbag. When the images were first released last year during the Spring runway shows, I caught a glimpse and fell hard, and have been waiting to share it with you ever since. If only my bank account could support such a purchase, I would get one in every color--or just one at all, really. And I would never, ever carry it with the strap. This bag was meant to be clutched, and it was meant to be rocked.

Buy through Burberry for $1,095.00.

Image via Burberry.

-Cate-

PS Speaking of clutches, kate spade has recently released two new book clutches! You can see them here and here.

PPS I very much wanted to title this post "I Blue Myself," but was concerned that it might be misconstrued; still, I wanted to mention it. If you get the reference, congrats! If not, feel free to disregard the previous two sentences!

"This Is the Motor City. And This Is What We Do."

Although there was a great deal of buzz about this earlier in the week, I still want to share with you one of the best commercials I've ever seen. Of course, I'm pretty biased, being from the city in question, but really what it comes down to is the spirit embodied in said city, something that people--especially those who've never lived there--love to call into question. "They're too violent," they say, or maybe, "They're too self-destructive."

If that were the case, we wouldn't be here anymore. Rather, we're fighters, a microcosm of the American ethos as a whole, something that's brought to the fore here:

I'm always proud to tell people where I came from. And obviously I'm not the only one. On behalf of all of us, I'd like to request that you never write us off. We always find our way. After all, the city's motto is Speramus meliora; resurget cineribus.

Translation? We hope for better things; it will rise from the ashes.

And you'd better believe it.

-Cate-

Pinking in the Rain

There are few things more classic in this world than a pair of Hunter rain boots. And with Valentine's Day coming up, I've been thinking about these pink ones:

How cute are they? The color is a perfectly girly pink that can be paired with brown, navy, or black pants and a cute springtime trench, and the style is one that can be used all year long. Get your hands on a pair today!

Buy through Zappos for $125.00.

Image via Zappos.

-Cate-

New York Meets Moscow

You all know I love a good matryoshka. So when I saw this cute, bright little set from Henri Bendel, I was immediately hooked:

These nesting dolls are the perfect accent for any fashionista's dresser--something to decorate her space and reflect her tastes. Can you see these in your home?

Buy through Henri Bendel for $98.00.

Image via Henri Bendel.

-Cate-

A Quick Note

I'm not a hankie kind of girl. If anyone ever gave one to me, I would probably lose it immediately, or at the very least misplace it. But this particular hankie might make me a believer:

It's part of a greeting card set at Cath Kidston, which allows you to send a hankie and a note to those nearest and dearest. The vintage feeling and simple color scheme both help make the hankie a versatile--and completely adorable--accessory. Who would you send it to?

Buy through Cath Kidston for $14.00.

Image via Cath Kidston.

-Cate-

The Juiciest

Tell me who doesn't love a good piece of fruit and I'll show you someone who's never seen fruit in the right light. For example, maybe that person has never seen a cute, whimsical piece of jewelry like this one from GirlProps:

This is a surefire way to bring great color into your outfit and maybe a little fun, as well. Or would you rather see another type of fruit? I'd love to know!

Buy through GirlProps for $12.99.

Image via GirlProps.

-Cate-

The Flowering

Since it's the weekend, many of you probably have plans to head out on the town. And as such, maybe you'll find this lovely little item useful:

It's the Sondra Roberts Floral Organza Clutch, and I think it's fantastic. Pair it with a purple dress, some black shoes, and some hot pink lips, and you're totally in business. Enjoy!

Buy through Nordstrom for $98.00.

Image via Nordstrom.

-Cate-

Step Up

A hidden platform combined with black satin might be one of my favorite shoe combinations. So of course I'm falling all over myself thanks to this shoe from BCBG:

The simplicity! The sleekness! The sheer high-society feeling of it all! I'd love to snag a pair for myself, if only I had the money.

Unfortunately, this shoe is currently available only in sizes 9 and 9.5. But if your feet fall into one of those sizes, you're in luck!

Buy through BCBG for $210.00.

Image via BCBG.

-Cate-

Living in Color

I'd really like to have a new rug for my living room, but I know that I'm not in a position to deal with the upkeep. So I hope one of my trusty readers might consider getting the following so I can live vicariously through your living room:

Isn't that just lovely? A little spray of color, a simple silhouette, and you're totally set for a room transformation.

Buy through 2Modern. Prices start at $895.00.

Image via 2Modern.

-Cate-

Trying to Welcome Spring

As the weather attempts to warm up, perhaps you're looking for a little something to brighten your days. My solution? A cute little ponytail scarf, like this one from Coach:

You can tie it around your ponytail, braid it into your hair, or throw it around your neck. Whichever you decide, it's sure to make a splash and cheer you up when you start to think the sun might never return. Enjoy!

Buy through Macy's for $38.00.

Image via Macy's.

-Cate-

A Beautiful Cascade

I'm a huge fan of amber. I think it's a great material, and each piece is unique, which is pretty awesome. The pieces that especially appeal to me are the ones that combine different colors of amber, such as the Honey Amber Drops Necklace from the Russian Store:

The way the amber sort of waterfalls from shade to shade--and size to size--is lovely. And this is certainly a statement piece, something that should be worn with a simple dress to allow the natural beauty of the amber to shine.

Buy through the Russian Store for $132.99.

Image via the Russian Store.

-Cate-