Japan on the Brain...

After a moderate heartbreak following the Japan loss this morning in the World Cup, I thought I would quell those bad feelings with some new retail research for my upcoming trip to Japan. Muji came to mind. I have loved Muji for years. On the outside it appears as your typical "all-purpose" store - but Muji has a conscience. Their products are formed without "unnecessary functionality, an excess of decoration and needless packaging". What is left is a simple and modern product designed for its exact use. With online stores in Spain and the U.S., a trip to Japan isn't necessary to experience the clean-lined aesthetic of Muji. Here are some of my picks:


I always carry around a notebook in my purse - for anything: new music, a new designer, store to re-visit, or an inspirational thought.

This is a great bag for summer. In wool, it will work well into the fall as well.



Cardboard speakers? Perfect for a beach picnic. At only $38, you won't get too bummed out if they get sandy.



Everyone needs a funky hanky. Pick one up of your favorite city. Mine is Paris.



Packing light? Stuff your case with a couple of these shrink wrapped t-shirts. Just stand in a steamy bathroom to de-wrinkle.

Spring 2010 Rachel Comey

Every time I slip into my Rachel Comey wood wedges, I think of finding them by chance, at Oak in Brooklyn, priced ridiculously low. They are a half size too big, but I deal. They are my favorites. This was a year ago.Her latest collection is just the motivation I needed to diligently start saving for my next favorite pair. A few of my picks below.




Clockwise from top left: Bollinger, Dekalb, Pebbled Trails and Twisted Tress

Ditte Isager

While these images have been floating around the blog-o-sphere for a while now, I still can't get enough. I just adore these interior and still life photos from Danish photographer Ditte Isager. I want to live inside these saturated and moody images.

E-Hyphen World Gallery

Once again, I apologize for the lack in posts. Things are crazy around here! I am off to Japan in a couple of weeks and simply cannot wait to head to E-Hyphen World Gallery. With multiple locations in Tokyo, but a convenient spot right in Kichijoji, this boutique is the go-to spot for me to pick-up unique styles you simply cannot find in the states. I always walk away from here with a wide assortment of designs that can best be characterized as ... different.

Their latest assortment what originally made me fall in love with them - loose fitting tops and dresses mixed with voluminous skirts and pants. And while they never stray too far from elements from that first collection, they still manage to reinvent themselves. And while I would love for them to open up their online shop to international distribution, a big part of me wants them to stay a secret. Regardless, here are some of my favorites.



Check out their site here.