Ready to Fly

When I first saw this feather-edged capelet of Barbara Munsel's on Susie Bubble's site, I knew that I had to have it. It was delicate and ethereal and, simply... special. How could you not want it?



And when I found out there was only one going to be made, I was even less able to resist its charms. Made of the creamiest crepe de chine silk, studded with crystals and edged with fluttery feathers it's probably the most magical item I own.

I bought a garment bag for it (since I don't have a dress form... yet!) but now I need to find somewhere equally magical to wear it. And what to wear it with? I was thinking something down to earth like jeans, boots and a cami or tee in a similar color. Or a strapless dress in the same off white as the feathers.

Do you have any ideas inspired by this? I'd love for you to share them if you do!

Magic Shaving Soap Gel

I've always had a love/hate with shaving my legs. This is on so many levels. First of all I am super sensitive skin. So crazy-sensitive that I can't put on any lotion for at least 24 hours after I shave or I break out like crazy. Just using and old razor or a new kind of shave gel can also cause my to get a rash too.

The only thing I could ever use was Neutrogena oil, although I later found Khiel's Creme de Corps wasn't too bad and I found that a bottle of safflower oil (found for cheap in the grocery) works well to keep in moisture too. It doesn't have a smell so you can use plain or add in an essential oil and isn't too greasy.

Another reason I hate shaving was the whole animal testing thing that is done by makers of razors and shave gels/creams. Gilette, one of the largest brands, has been something that we have boycotted for years and years. Not only are these products expensive and wasteful (we hate how much disposable razor blades cost and how they are packaged) but they have done unneeded testing for years. Blech!

We've found some razor solutions but we've been looking for other shave gel options too. The hubby uses a Khiel's product but I've just been using a store brand can of shaving creme. But the other day, he came home from the store with this tube of Dr. Bronner's Magic Organic Fair Trade Tea Tree Shaving Soap Gel.



I've used it a few times and I have to say I like it. It has a pretty runny consistency when it comes out of the tube but then it froths up. It makes the razor move pretty easily and I haven't had any negative reactions, which is great.

If you can find this in your store, I would recommend it. I'm using the tea tree "flavor" but I now see that they have lavender and lemongrass lime (and more). I think I want to try those too.

The company also seems to have a commitment to fair trade and social responsibility. And as you know, I believe, like many people, but especially women, that it is not only the product we are buying but the company's values that are important to us too.

If you've found any good shaving solutions or companies doing a good job being socially responsible, I'd love to hear about them.

Imitation = Flattery?

I was looking on ModCloth, which always has cute stuff, and came across these interesting tights.



Aren't they neat? But, ummm...., don't they remind you of something?



Oh yes! The amazing hand-crafted tights from Bebaroque!



Now I know printed tights are not unique but these are awfully close, don't you think.

The problem is I like ModCloth but I do have an issue with their positioning. They tend to say they have all this unique stuff but I often find or know where they really come from.

Let's just be honest already!

Compete for a Lady's Attentions

The lovely Miss Vanda of Paraphernalia fame is having a competition to win a voucher and immortality in her Victoriana Collection!

Per her competition blog post:

I made the Victoriana Collection because I really really wanted some pieces I could wear to more formal occasions and parties, but I've also been wearing Penelope up there for going shopping, going out for coffee, going to family dinners - totally versatile. They have five beautiful ladies with very different personalities, besides a beautiful pearl and discreet, yet sparkly glitter accents. I'll be taking photos on a model with them tomorrow, since I think these images do not do them justice!

On top of this, I'm launching the very first Paraphernalia competition! Write a short story (around a paragraph or two) for one (or several) of these ladies, and if yours is selected, not only will be featured in the product description and press releases of the collection (with full credit and link), you'll also be able to win a $30 gift voucher for each of the stories that get selected!

To enter, leave a comment here, on my Flickr, or send me an e-mail to bonmots@paraphernalia.nu. Entries close on Saturday the 6th, so be quick! Good luck! <3

I know I'm going to try and come up with something worthy of these lovely ladies! I know there's a ton of creativity out there. I can't wait to see what you come up with.