Cortana: Subtle Sustainable Spanish Luxury

Martina draped printed silk-crepe maxi wrap dress in “Blue”

Searching for a dress to wear to my friend’s wedding this summer, I stumbled across a beautiful Spanish brand, Cortana. Cortana was the brain child of designer/artist Rosa Esteva (more about her), born and raised on the island of Mallorca. From an early age she cultivated a close relationship with art and nature, and it truly shows in her beautiful pieces.

Her silks flow like water and her color palate seamlessly blends the earth, sky and water. Her unique prints are based on her watercolors. I was instantly in love and decided to give one of her dresses a try.

I chose the Martina draped maxi dress in “blue” made of the finest silk crepe. The print is etherial and is just the right blend of colors to make the dress come off as neutral. The subtle silhouette and movement of the silk are simply delicious.

I purchased it from Net-a-Porter, and was so light, I thought they may have forgotten to put the dress in the box (lol). The quality of the silk is gorgeous, light but substantial, soft but sturdy, flowing but still has structure. It was very long, and I will have to practice my rolled-hem technique before altering, but I cannot wait to wear this piece. I’m thinking maybe with some Georg Jensen Moonlight Grapes Silver Earrings and Necklace. That being said, gold would go with this dress as well – it seems to blend cool and warm colors making this a good fit for most women with either undertones.

This dress can be dressed down as well. I’m planning on going to the Hamptons this summer and it could be just as easily styled for a beach party (with flat sandals and boyfriend cardigan).

What do you think of this brand? Have you heard of them? I know that they are known for their amazing wedding dresses (you need to see them), If I were a bride today, I would definitely select one of these beauties (hmmm, maybe I can convince my hubby to have a vow renewal).

Cortana is minimal but not boring, elevated but not showy, just the right mix of quality and luxury.

xo

L

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Apparently, Bucking IS the Trend

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Many brands are having horsey moments, and the house of Chloé seems to be leading the trend. Their collection is a “bit” whimsical and I really think it’s cute.

Without shame, they’ve covered entire outfits with rearing horse embroidery.  My favorite item of the collection has to be the Chloe Bomber Jacket; 70’s inspired and indulgently “little-girly”. I normally don’t dig velvet (reminds me of the monstrosity I called my senior prom dress), but this just looks fun to wear. At $2750, the price tag is out of reach for normal girls like me, but maybe someday I can buy it off price at an outlet ;).

I also love the bags that they have to match this collection;

which (unlike the clothing) will last more than one season. For horsey people like me, these bags will last a lifetime.

The simple and elegant American brand Derek Lam, has captured equestrian eyes with this amazing dress.  It features a simple cap sleeve suede top, with an elegant horse appliqué on the midi length skirt. I would wear this all day every day! It’s another high ticket item, at $2650. I’m searching for lookalikes for less money,; I’ll post updates if/when I find any. dereklamskirtneimanmarcusDerekLamCapsleevesuedehorseskirtdress

What do you think? Would you wear any of these items (assuming we could all afford them)? Comment below!

xo

lb

Sugar and Spice and All Things Nice…

loveshackpopover

…that’s what Love Shack Fancy is made of. I’m obsessed with this brand. In a time where gender neutrality rules the roost, LSF dares to be in-your-face feminine. Any why not? I see nothing wrong with the sweet romantic proclivities of little girls. Flowers and frills in soft pastels and subtle neutrals are just what every woman needs to connect back to her inner little girl. Tea, anyone?

This season’s specials harken back to Little House on the Prairie, one of my all time favorite shows: Michael Landon, the nation’s moral father, teaching life lessons to his all-female brood wearing ruffles, flowers, braids and deliciously modest dresses while digging in the mud and swimming through rivers. I can see me wearing all of these to the barn while I scoop manure…well, maybe not.

These frocks aren’t, however, Little House on the Prairie prices, ranging from the $150’s to the $650’s. Ma would probably have to sew her own. Save your pennies and invest in a long skirt with a slub tee, or a sweet ruffled top to pear with your favorite jeans and western boots.

American midwest meets the Hamptons. Love it.

xo

lb

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