If you’re anything like me, you HATE winter…. And I mean DESPISE it.  This is oxymoronic given that I grew up in the Northeastern part of the US, but it is the truth.  To stave off my seasonal affective disorder, I have tried sunlamps, vitamin D, meditation and, yes, even therapy. Despite my travails, I can’t get myself to feel good about the way I look in the winter. The dry, pasty skin, incessant hat head, and lack of dress motivation, is enough to make me want to hibernate. 

YES! Winter dulls my fashionista mojo… There, I’ve said it.  

When the weather turns cold and the snow accumulates, all I want to do is stay inside the comforts of my toasty house, which then begs the question.. Why should I bother with high fashion when NO ONE is going to see me?  For me, the answer is in the accessories. Since I’m always freezing, I tend to gravitate towards chic loungewear and chunky knits.  It’s become something of a boring uniform.  My go-to.. Everyday.

Giving the Perfect Gift

We all have those very special gifts. The ones we remember every detail about receiving..the who, what, why and where. Aside from grandiosity or value, what makes a gift memorable or meaningful? 

Simply, a meaningful memorable gift is one that the recipient will cherish. Ideally, it is a permanent reminder of your friendship and presence in their life.  Whether for an occasion or “just because”, gift-giving is actually a love language. 

Anne Donze and Vincent Chagnon are the artistic team behind Anvi Glass Studio. 

In my 20’s and 30’s, while working at Prada and in the industry at large, fashion trends played a different role in my life than they do today. The significance of the literal interpretation of trend was overt, and demanded head to toe adherence. As I grow and mature into my (very) late 40’s, I want trends, but also subtlety and an understated sophistication while still being relevant. The balance lies in marrying trend with functionality. 

Great Gifts for the Home

When I look around my home, it is the tokens of love from family and friends that warm my heart and really make a space feel like home. I never forget who gifted me a beautiful candle, vase, dish, or a yummy throw blanket. The little indulgences that I may not buy for myself, but somehow, have become an integral part of my environment, have meaning beyond their beauty or utility. 

If you’re like me, GIVING the perfect gift feels even better than receiving one, and no doubt you spend time considering who you are gifting, what their tastes are, and hope that they will love the token as much as you do. While this can be a daunting feeling, especially if you’re buying a gift for someone who’s home you’ve never visited, we’ve got a long list of safe bets that will almost always hit the spot!

Ukrainian bag designer, Elena Kovulchuk, describes the impact of war on her life, creative process, and business. A heartfelt and raw interview.