Diana Kane

Layers to keep you warm

2011-10-25T13:21:00.001-04:00

These beautiful arm warmers from Erica Tanov arrived in the store last week, and I immediately bought two pairs. It had never occurred to me that I might want arm warmers until the moment I first saw these, but I love them and think that maybe I actually need one more pair-- especially since one of the pairs I bought is a gift for my mother. Now she can wear her 3/4 sleeve coat when it is actually cold outside! I like the way they can peek out from under a sweater and make it seem like you are wearing a second awesome sweater underneath without adding any bulk. Also, this picture doesn't do the sparkle justice... So come in and see for yourself!

Another new arrival: great tights and leggings from French Curve...

Congratulations...

2011-10-18T15:21:00.004-04:00

to Bayh and Matt on their engagement! These rings make me want to get engaged, too...

sterling silver ring with rose cut diamonds

14kt gold with one rose cut diamond

top: 14kt gold band with scattered diamonds

bottom: platinum band

Hard to pick a favorite... (but it's the silver/diamond ring for me!)

Grown up and sophisticated

2011-10-17T17:27:00.004-04:00

A customer came in today and fell in love with Jitterbug Perfume. It is one of the staples among our collection of fragrances (which also includes Kai and Sage Oils). When she asked me how I would describe it, I said that it is grown up and sophisticated, that it has the gravitas of Chanel No. 5 without feeling old fashioned or too heavy: a modern interpretation of smells that conjure vintage photographs, french movies, and first dates.

Since that was a pretty qualitative description, I also looked it up to discover the following:

Those are scents that remind me of sitting at my grandmother's dressing table, just tall enough to see the glimmer of crystal bottles, the glint of metal lipstick cylinders, the luscious lure of her gilded compact, and the irresistible pot of delectable cold cream that lived in the far corner.

Every year, my grandparents drove to our house for Thanksgiving. My grandmother would pack all of her oils and potions—the things that I thought made her quintessentially grown up and sophisticated—into an avocado green cosmetics case that matched her luggage. I ALWAYS carried that case in from the car, and she always let me pop it open and poke through it. As a result, classic perfume and the smells of autumn combine to conjure many of my favorite memories.

When that customer held out her wrist for my opinion, it was as if I was sitting at my grandmother's vanity with the atomizer poised before me. After she purchased the Jitterbug Perfume, I picked up the tester, dabbed a bit on the back of my hand, and have been engrossed in lovely memories ever since.

Blue

2011-10-06T15:10:00.001-04:00

These cashmere pop-top gloves from Carolina Amato arrived in the store a couple of days ago, and it reminded me of this gorgeous car:

I love the car's exterior, but I also love the tones and textures of the interior. Also in that family:

Prairie Underground's Long Cloak Hoodie

Shabd's stormy silk scarf

Let me introduce you

2011-10-01T19:12:00.002-04:00

to some of the new designers in the store this fall:

The lovely and delightful, and very local, Megan Noonan dropped off pieces from her inaugural collection for Marijn Bennet. I'm particularly taken by the braided scarves in alpaca and wool. Warm necklaces in fetching colors are an original take on a winter staple.

Hikaru Noguchi, is a new gem for us. Japanese by origin, she produces her collection of knit accessories in the UK from the finest Scottish, English and Australian wool. The styles reference vintage knitwear, while updating colors to a thoroughly modern mix. I call it friendly, soft, warm... and definitely cool.

Another new find is Mercy Studio, by a design duo out of Toronto. The rich fabrics, attention to detail and romantic silhouettes drew me in immediately. In the end, though, there is something unique and artful about the collection that I haven't come across before, and that won me over. The digitally printed silk charmeuse, in deep navy with bronzy gold, blue, white and brown is pure luxury, and the washed stars on woven wool are sophisticated delight. Not to mention the gold brocade coat...

This is just a tease, come see what else is on the racks and on the shelves.

Fall weather, Fall fashion

2011-08-18T16:51:00.004-04:00

For the past week I've been reveling in the chilly morning weather and in the pleasure of pulling up the blankets instead of reaching for the ac. While I normally can't stand to look at sweaters in August, I was thrilled to get to work this morning and see the first of our fall orders had arrived to the store! Majestic, Velvet and Hartford are a few of my favorites. Take a peek!

Cooling off on Pier 6

2011-07-22T18:00:00.002-04:00

Last week my cousin Meghan invited me to take a walk down to the water park over at Pier 6 together with her daughter Quinn. There are rocks to climb on and around, sprinklers in open areas and little rivers to meander through while getting your feet wet. It was the perfect way to cool off. I wish there was a park like that for adults, because I would go there all the time.

I gave Quinn this Yoshii towel from the store shortly after she was born, and Meghan used it to dry her off when we were ready to leave the park. It also came in handy for lining a too-hot swing seat. I want to order more for the store, so I will keep you all posted...

Oh yeah, and on the walk home we passed this lovely flower shop and saw artichoke flowers. Sooooo cool.

Meanwhile, back in Park Slope...

2011-07-19T16:01:00.002-04:00

Witness the work of George The Great:

The lights are embedded in wooden dowls- fantastic.

George Awad, truly George the Great, has been transforming the lighting in the store this summer.

It started with an offhand comment from my friend Christine, about her father's mini obsession with LED lighting. LEDs are something I have long championed, but had disappointing experience with.

They are magical: very energy efficient, long lived and bright, but until recently the color spectrum available to the general public was limited to very white/ blue light- not the best for my warm store.

George's interest has led him to explore the options now available, including warmer tones, and the results are remarkable, as you can see in the before and after photos above.

I'm completely thrilled.

And, among things that may thrill you: there are lots of good things on SALE in the store now.

Come in, experience George's magic, and find something magic of your own.

Stackables

2011-07-18T15:26:00.004-04:00

I gave in!!!! These Mali bracelets have been among our best selling items all summer, and I have watched tons of fabulous, stylish women walk out with their perfectly customized stack of colorful rubber bangles. Yesterday I gave in to the lure of these recycled accessories and took home a stack of my own. I had dinner with a couple friends in Prospect Park last night, and they were the first thing that we talked about.

At only $2/bracelet, they are a steal. And you can keep them on at the beach or wear them straight into the deep end of the pool. I don't plan on taking mine off until the weather necessitates long sleeves, and at 97 degrees today, it's hard to imagine that will ever happen!

Summer days

2011-07-13T16:28:00.001-04:00

Two weekends ago I had the pleasure of visiting with a friend in a very tiny town in Pennsylvania, where I spent most of the Fourth of July lying in a hammock with my book... Then, this last Thursday, I went to the first of the outdoor movies in Brooklyn Bridge Park, which is my favorite summertime thing to do. You see a beautiful view of the river and of Manhattan while you wait for it to get dark enough for them to show the movie:

Hans and I biked to the park last week, which is great because they have a bike valet so there's no need to carry a heavy lock. Tomorrow's movie is Ghostbusters, and I can't wait! I would love to wear this airy Hartford top with my shorts, bring the Matta Dupatta for when it gets chilly (which is impossible to imagine before the sun goes down, but then it happens), and of course those Coup d'Etat espadrilles that I couldn't resist:

Vintage photo

2011-06-28T12:36:00.003-04:00

I submitted this "vintage" photo of my mother to The Sartorialist a couple of weeks ago, but I'm too impatient to wait to see if he will post it so I am beating him to the punch. This was taken at her first job in publishing. Doesn't she look so glamorous?

Prints I Have Loved

2011-06-27T13:02:00.005-04:00

Anyone who knows me knows that I love taking pictures of food. What you might not know, however, is I also love taking pictures of beautiful prints and fabrics. I have taken home many a blouse or dress simply because I am in love with the print.

Here are some pictures I took of beautiful prints at the V&A Museum during my last trip to London:

There are many pieces in the store right now that use beautiful prints on beautiful fabrics, but the Firefly Shirtdress by Only Hearts really takes the cake. I saw it and immediately fell in love with the print:

The dress is pretty cute as well:

This dress is perfection for many summer occasions, but would be especially noteworthy (and timely) at a Fourth of July party this weekend.

Did I mention that the Firefly Shirtdress pattern is the background on my phone? I think it really complements the picture of french macarons I have as my screen saver.

Summer treats

2011-06-20T18:09:00.008-04:00

Last week, Susannah brought me a homemade mini rhubarb tart. I still had hot coffee left in my thermos and it made the best afternoon snack of all time. I have learned that Susannah is a consummate chef, and this little delight was perfect proof of her culinary skill.

Then today, a gentleman stopped in to leave postcards advertising the new service, Feast Upon: "We’ve chosen top local chefs who have recommended unique seasonal entrées and sides perfect for cooking at home. We then source the best organic ingredients from sustainable regional farms and deliver everything, including detailed cooking instructions, right to your door."

How tempting is that?? It makes me hope that I might someday produce a meal that would live up to the impeccable standards of Anna Klinger.

Due to Susannah's capacity in the kitchen, the discovery of Feast Upon and the proximity of Al Di La, I am most glad to have the Three Stripe Sundress by Only Hearts in the store at the moment. The pattern is universally slimming, the material hugs you comfortably, and with the natural waist, you can have as many gourmet treats as you like and still look like a 1950s movie star.

(And please don't take my pictures as evidence—my Evo and I try our best, but we've hardly done this dress justice. Come in and see for yourself!)

Espadrilles!

2011-06-15T18:24:00.003-04:00

I have been waiting for the arrival of Coup D'Etat Espadrilles since we were in the depths of winter, so imagine my JOY at seeing them in this basket when I got to the store today! I may have to take a ruby red pair home with me right now.

Cloudy beach day

2011-06-12T14:40:00.004-04:00

Hans and I went to the beach last weekend. We had a great time, despite getting lost and driving two hours out of our way, and despite the fact that it was freezing. I took off my clothes for about three minutes, but I was still very happy to be wearing my new Lisa Curran lace print swimsuit! (Lace print bikinis are in the store now).

There was also a whale sighting, which would have been more exciting had we been the ones to see it. The lifeguard kept pointing and shouting "There it is! There! Again!" Cruel joke?

Things I love... today...

2011-03-29T16:00:00.003-04:00

Let's just start with Heidi Roland's fresh, fun, feather earrings, shall we:

I couldn't help myself.

And maybe then we should move on to this sweater from Hartford:
Yes- perhaps not earth shattering, but the cotton/cashmere blend is divine- warm, soft, durable, washable. And the timeless design feels classic, not boring, and perfect for Spring.

And now, howzabout Eberjey's daintys:

Pretty, lacy and they won't break the bank.

And as we are on the subject, I love this fundraiser my friends are organizing for their public elementary school: touch-a-truck. Kids can come sit in, explore, and meet a huge variety of trucks and other various vehicles, all parked in front of the school. Red Hook food trucks are coming to provide the eats.
How cool is that?

And while we are on that subject, I love IZZE sparkling juices today too, for sponsoring MY school fundraiser, the PS 39 Spring Carnival.

Come in and see what You love. Happy Tuesday!

A new year and a giant sale...

2011-01-06T17:25:00.004-05:00

To celebrate the new year, we're marking down prices 10%-70% (with more on the 70% end than you might think).

Beloved Prairie Underground Cloak Hoodies-- both short and long-- are included in the sale, so now's the time to snag the one you've had your eye on. It's also the time to get a beautiful winter coat; whether it's Hartford's pea coat, the Steven Alan grey wool Ruth coat, or the seriously reduced Velvet faux-fur lined coats.

I'm always tempted to view the holidays as the culmination of the winter season, but it's really just the very beginning... so take advantage of the snow day we're about to have to come into the store and warm up with us!

Beauty, and things that make me happy

2010-12-03T23:06:00.004-05:00

Today our dear and sublimely talented friend, Denise Kerr, decorated our windows for the holidays. I've long admired her beautiful designs. They are simple and contained, and also free and elaborately architectural at the same time. Somehow she walks a line between ornamental and modern, which is not an easy feat.
We had such a lovely afternoon and the windows are amazing, precisely what I wanted, and what I feel like the store is about: beauty, creativity, craft, local talent and whimsy, with a healthy dash of chic.
So come see in person, 'cause the pictures don't do it justice. Also, some of Denise's designs are in the store- you can get a little piece of her magic for yourself, or for someone who could use some magic.

2010-11-08T12:59:00.003-05:00

The season has changed...

2010-11-01T17:15:00.014-04:00

All of a sudden, it's actually fall. We're not easing into the season anymore; it's here, and if it's not here for long, it's because even colder weather is just around the corner. Here are a few things to keep you warm:

In addition to the Dupatta scarves that are by now a seasonal staple, we have some beautiful dip dyed scarves from Matta that came in this past week. The fabric is a fine wool/silk blend and the colors are gorgeous:

Caribbean blue fading into elephant grey, dusky purple into olive green, and persimmon into rose.

Also in the store are Carolina Amato cashmere gloves with tiny holes in the forefinger and thumb so perfect, so adorable, (so perfect for using your touch-screen phones and blackberries), that I can't keep from telling just about everyone who walks in the store all about them:

And for something slightly more playful, we also have glittens (gloves and mittens all-in-one!) that have the unusual feature of being able to expose your thumb, too (which means you can wear glittens AND use your iphone AND be adorable all at the same time):

Impact

2010-10-21T14:04:00.002-04:00

Now I don't want to get all preachy, but have you looked at the impact of conventionally grown and harvested cotton??!! I've been thinking about choice, and the holistic impact of my choices lately. There has been a fantastic leap in understanding the organic/local food industry, but I don't think people have really wised up to the way they make their garment choices in the same way.
16% of the world's pesticide use is on conventional cotton crops. Shopping for organic cotton supports farmers, and the environment, and is also a consistently better choice for your health and the health of your family; residual pesticides linger in the conventional material for the life of the garment. hmmm...
Additionally, the range of style and fabrics available now is so much greater than ever before.
And- you are often supporting small local designers, thereby sustaining your local environs, neighborhood and country. See, holistic.
Okay, I'll stop ranting, and just say...
Stewart + Brown
Prairie Underground
Organic by John Patrick
Steven Alan
Erica Tanov
Majestic
(yes, they are all sustainable, organic AND available here at Diana Kane :) )

Audrey Hepburn's Beauty Tips*

2010-10-19T20:27:00.002-04:00

For attractive lips, speak words of kindness.

For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people.

For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry.

For beautiful hair, let a child run his or her fingers through it once a day.

For poise, walk with the knowledge that you never walk alone.

People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed and redeemed; never throw out anyone.

Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you'll find one at the end of each of your arms. As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands, one for helping yourself, the other for helping others.

The beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears, the figure she carries, or the way she combs her hair. The beauty of a woman must be seen from in her eyes, because that is the doorway to her heart, the place where love resides.

The beauty of a woman is not in a facial mode, but the true beauty in a woman is reflected in her soul. It is the caring that she lovingly gives and the passion that she shows.

The beauty of a woman grows with the passing years.

*While widely credited to Audrey Hepburn, and often quoted by her, these words were actually written by Sam Levenson.

Storewide 20% Off!!

2010-10-09T18:08:00.002-04:00

This Weekend Only, join us in welcoming Fall with a Storewide Sale.
Hours are 11-8 Saturday, and 11-7 Sunday

cheap and cheerful, simple and elegant

2010-09-29T09:13:00.002-04:00

Here are a couple of the little somethings currently available in the store. The bracelets are made out of recycled rubber flip flops, and come in a fantastic assortment of colors. They layer beautifully with more precious bangles, or are a great statement by the armload. And they're $2 each. The earrings are an easy every day complement to just about anything; dove-grey fresh water coin-pearls with handmade 14kt french wires. And they're $55.
Come by the store to see what else we have up our organic cotton-silk-alpaca-virgin wool-cashmere sleeves.
xx Diana

send a little love to someone you... you know.

2010-09-14T16:47:00.002-04:00

New mini stackable heart rings. I love them.

fashion

2010-09-02T12:35:00.009-04:00

It's the time of the year when my friends, and customers, start asking me: "What's Hot?" (feminine silhouettes), "What are the Colors?" (heather grey, camel, purple, olive, red),"Which Textures and Fabrics?" (leather, cashmere, a wealth of warmth and richness), "What's IN Now??"
It started me thinking...
What is Fashion for me, what inspires? To me fashion is about being true to yourself, being clear about who you are and expressing that in how you dress. It means finding shapes that flatter and colors that illuminate you. It's about being extraordinary in the details.
What I think it's not, is being dictated to. If there is one thing that comes back to me again and again it's that one size -or shape or color-- really doesn't fit all. And what each of us is seeking is an expression of ourselves that enhances us, that makes us feel confident, powerful, put together, and chic, and is still practical and effortless. Fashion shouldn't get in the way of your life.

So if you find something that works, why keep shopping? Because life isn't static. It's always shifting and changing; wearing the same old thing you wore last year may not fit (figuratively as well as literally) who you are now.

Now, as with everything, we look for the magic pill- For someone to say: this sweater will change your life. And you know, sometimes it really will- and I'll tell you when I think it could. And I can tell you what colors and shapes, but please don't take my word for it. Or Vogue's or Bazaar's... or anyone's at all.

Oh yeah, and our new Fall pieces are exceptionally fabulous.
Love, Diana

Last Call on some really killer summer pieces

2010-08-26T17:41:00.003-04:00

As summer dwindles, so have our prices on what is still an excellent collection of lucky sizes by incredible designers:
Erica Tanov's hand painted cotton dresses from $220 to $108
Matta's silk wrap dresses from $202 to $98
Virginia Johnson's cotton prints from $265 to $124
And so much more...
And all of it an additional 20% off through the weekend!
Come in, say hi, and maybe get lucky.

planning outfits

2010-08-20T13:25:00.003-04:00

If you're anything like me, you're already planning that perfect outfit for the first day of Fall. You know the one - that first day when the air is crisp enough for a scarf and cool enough for your new cardigan or jacket; the humidity finally decided to break, so you can wear jeans again. There's a slight chill to the air so you can wear your leather boots again - that pair that you were more than happy to shove to the back of your closet come April, but can't wait to break out now that you've worn your sandals to death. You've had all your accessories lined up since the beginning of August - and now it's finally time to put it all together.

And if you're anything like me at all, these elaborate outfit plans fall to the wayside when this perfect, autumnal day finally arrives. Despite your best efforts, you end up resorting to a classic favorite like jeans and your most comfortable t-shirt, like the Vintage Slub Tee by Velvet. These cotton t-shirts have an intentionally worn, relaxed fit, and are incredibly soft. I might choose the classic, white v-neck, or the long-sleeved crew neck in deep mauve. Luckily they go with everything in my closet - and are easy to accessorize for when I start to feel adventurous again.

crazy but true-

2010-07-20T16:18:00.006-04:00

In the midst of deep summer- with all it's pleasures and riches: watermelon! sundresses! sandals! sugar snap peas! sangria! heat! that delicious sun-tan-lotion-smell-that-is-so-nice-in-little, nostalgic-doses!- I am suddenly really excited about Fall. I look forward to the bounty of warm sweaters, scarves, hats, and deep, rich jewel toned clothes coming our way.
And in the meantime, I will continue to savor airy cotton dresses, especially the organic gauze ones from Perfectly Imperfect, and Calleen Cordero's gorgeous hand tooled sandals while they and the summer lasts.

Your Ideal Summer Bag

2010-07-08T12:13:00.004-04:00

Cute and functional - what more could you ask for in a handbag? How about Eco-Friendly! These handbags by Dutzi are created using recycled vintage burlap. Designer Ariane Dutzi hires Mayan craftswomen from the Yucatan to handcraft these beauties, making each bag completely individual. We especially love the rustic quality of the burlap paired with the colorful straps.

Whether you’re running to the beach or running around town, these handbags are absolutely perfect. And at half-price, how could you say no?

Perfect Summer Sandals...

2010-06-18T12:27:00.011-04:00

Have you been looking for the perfect summer flip flops? Tkees makes perfectly simple sandals in shades designed to flatter every skin tone, and they're sold out or back ordered at all the online shops! We have them in Sable, Charcoal, Coco Butter, Beach Pearl and Frosty Grey. Come into the store to grab a pair in your size...

while you still can!

Summer Sale....!

2010-06-11T21:20:00.004-04:00

Summer is here...
And we're celebrating in the store this weekend with ice cream cone-shaped cookies, lemonade, and seriously discounted prices on tons of your favorite designers. Some of the treasures include gossamer lace open cardigans by John Patrick for Organic, whimsical printed tops, dresses and scarves by Virginia Johnson; and unique pieces from local designer Ellen Astrachan and her beautiful BatSugar collection. In addition, swimsuits from Lisa Curran, Vix and Le Truc are half price, and beautiful airy slips by Erica Tanov!

Most items in the sale bins have been further marked down to 50%-80% of the original price, and there are lots of sale items scattered throughout the store (Matta dresses, Steven Alan tops, etc.). This sale is in store only, so come down and celebrate summer with us!

Yummm...

2010-03-22T09:34:00.004-04:00

I realize I haven't put up any recipes in ages, so here is my latest obsession: Banana Bread.
Our family went on a much needed vacation to Mexico over winter break, and discovered some magical local banana bread at the little grocery store in town. It was universally adored, and inspired me to find a good recipe when I got home. Turns out this is easy... and seriously delicious. This recipe is also forgiving, which is unusual in baking. I found that reducing the sugar to about 3/4 of a cup suited me better, as does using four bananas, and adding chopped walnuts and a scattering of semisweet chocolate chips (Chunky Monkey Bread!!). Very very good stuff.

Speaking of good stuff, the store is really truly stuffed with good stuff right about now. Giant shipments from Prairie Underground, including the famous Cloak Hoodie back in black, have come in. Tender tissue silks and Japanese cotton eyelet dresses have floated in from Erica Tanov, lovely and amazing printed swimsuits are in from the Spanish designers at Siyu, iconic flats and lovely coppery dancing heels are in from Repetto, Cydwoq's cult-worthy sandals are in, and so many many more items that our shelves are overflowing and our racks are bursting. Come in and see!

color and community

2010-03-02T12:35:00.005-05:00

color: new scarves from LemLem, fine cotton gauze made with love and fair trade in Ethiopia

Today I find myself with the unenviable task of hitting up my friends and neighbors to contribute items, gift certificates or services to my son's school's Spring Silent Auction.
I am on the receiving end of countless of these local solicitations as well, of course.
All of this leads to ruminations on community... what it means, and ours here in Park Slope in particular. For me, community is knowing my neighbors, friends and customers, the pleasure of sharing our local stories, our favorite places, our pet peeves and our colorful eccentrics. It's watching our kids grow up.
Lately, sadly, it has also meant seeing some fantastic stores throw in the towel and bow to the current economic climate, which is touching even our amazing little enclave of local support and fervor. I can see the stores here, mine included, tightening our collective belts, and looking for creative ways to keep our spirits up. It's a time of re-dedication, and as Spring always inspires, a time to refresh both our stock and our mindsets.
In that vein, I invite you to recognize anew what our local mom and pop shops offer to the fabric of your community... how they enhance your life, how these finely edited collections of everything from greeting cards to killer dresses to superhero capes make our community the amazing, diverse and desirable home to us that it is.
And, happily, every single establishment I have approached today has given its support to our excellent public school... further proof that through it all our community is as dedicated as ever to pulling together, and keeping us great.

Be Mine

2010-02-09T08:52:00.011-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day!!

I admit, Valentine's Day can feel like a made up holiday to me... but somehow this year it feels like a good time to reflect on the people in our lives whom we love. Yes, our sweethearts, but also the people whose friendships and support make our lives fun and fulfilling.
And I'm happy to have figured out how to offer special discounts on the web, as well as in the store. So, now through Valentine's Day, take 20% off all our lovely jewelry, both in the store, and online. Send out some love! Enter "bemine" at checkout.

Spring Tease...

2010-01-26T15:57:00.004-05:00

Yesterdays balmy mid 50's inspired me to brighten up our window...

Matta silk cotton Puja dress, Hartford turquoise linen tunic, Aki Kano Mari Hobo in pewter..
Sunny yellow Havaianas

and refresh some sale prices as well! Stop in to see what's been further reduced...
Of course the day has gone a little icy again, but here's to dreaming of Spring, or maybe that tropical vacation.

Sale! Sale! Sale!

2010-01-19T15:05:00.003-05:00

Yes, it's that time... The store is full of great deals on splendid things. Had your eye on one of Armand Dirdourian's cashmere scarves? Or maybe it's a last lucky find Steven Alan reverse seam shirt. Or could it be the shrunken wool blazer from Hartford? Come in and see for yourself!
10-70% off thru the end of January.

Additionally, the spring trickle has begun. With the longer days we have started to receive some new choice goodies. New linen from Hartford in crisp white and bright turquoise, French striped tees from Velvet, and sweet silk-cotton wrap dresses from Matta are leading the pack.

And a little local shout out- A nice profile of me, and the ever excellent Alice Cheng.
Thanks, Park Slope Reader, your magazine is truly an incredible local resource, and a great read.

traditions, and a sale.

2009-12-08T15:35:00.002-05:00

My family and I have been reading this book aloud on Christmas Eve for about as long as I can remember. When I was little my mother would read it to us, and as we got older we would pass the book around, each taking turns. I've gifted it more times than I can remember... passing along something that epitomizes the season for me. This year I managed to bring it into the store. I'm so happy to be able to share it with you all.

Additionally, our gorgeous scarf collection is all on sale. Enjoy a 25% discount on Epice's gauzy wools, Armand Diradourian's cashmeres, and Matta's cotton silks.

getting into the mood...

2009-11-24T13:14:00.008-05:00

Two days before Thanksgiving, and the last dry leaves have fallen and are scuttling along the avenue. The store feels festive: pretty little glass ornaments in many colors, warm winter tights, and lovely new crackled metallic leather cases from Barbara Wiggins adding some sparkle. Seems like a perfect day to start playing our '09 Holiday mix....
Which leads me to my favorite new sounds, a new Holiday album from the Harlem Parlour Music Club. The album features warm acoustic versions of my favorites with a splash of good 'ol funk, and some new ones too, played by an ensemble of incredibly skilled New York musicians... You've heard these guys on millions of recordings, or possibly in the orchestras of the biggest Broadway shows. I'm happy to have a stack of cds in the store... come get 'em, they're hot.

wine, words, and wicked discounts...

2009-11-17T18:33:00.007-05:00

This is going to be fun...

Come meet author AMY SOHN, peruse lovely new pieces from local designer Ellen Astrachan and her beautiful BatSugar collection, enjoy delicious wines from Picado y Vino, and take advantage of a one night store wide*
20% discount.

This is a great opportunity to jump start the holiday shopping season, or finally pick up that special something you've been dreaming about...

Thursday, November 19
reading at 7:30, Shopping and sipping until 9.

*not including sale items

229-b Fifth Avenue, between President and Carroll
Brooklyn NY, 718-638-6520
www.dianakane.com

housekeeping...

2009-11-10T15:31:00.003-05:00

One of my favorite recent finds, Yoshi towels from Japan, have just come back in. Still at the 2009 pricing (they're going up in January) and with a broader assortment of colors, I am so happy to have them back in stock. Feeding right into my passion for stripes, the palettes are soft, gently graphic and the towels are exceptionally soft, lightweight, 100% cotton. Produced in an environmentally friendly factory in Japan, this line really meets my aesthetic, qualitative, textural, and value standards. Bath towels $35, wash cloths to match $7.

various and sundry

2009-10-27T15:10:00.004-04:00

New and noteworthy in the store this week include Tatine's candles, in recycled glass, with great packaging, and clean burning soy wax. My favorite scent has got to be the woodsmoke, followed by the creeping moss, both of which are especially appropriate on this cool and rainy day.

Also, perennial favorite Sven's clogs are back, shearling lined boots and pewter clogs included.
Matta's gold perforated bag is a dreamy complement to the clogs, no?

Warm and playful hats from New Scotland are great, as are Erica Tanov's gauntlet style fingerless gloves, in both bright and earthy shades.

Rounding it all out are a terrific assortment of cheap and cheerful bits and bobs:
recycled rubber bracelets from Africa, $2 each,
Beeswax hand salve, $8, and multicolored bracelets $12 each.

introducing Aki Kano

2009-10-20T16:20:00.004-04:00

A new local handbag designer has been making an impression on us, and our customers. Aki's beautiful bags are crafted here in New York out of supple full grain cowhide, soft but long wearing and durable. Her bags really fill a niche: simple, useful, chic, and incredibly well made. I am always surprised how hard it can be to meet these criteria. We've sold out once and are happy to have a new shipment in the store now.
Additionally, thanks to Rebeccah Welsh for the nice interview on the All About Fifth blog.

happy to report

2009-09-29T17:52:00.004-04:00

that Matta's fabulous and much coveted dupatta stoles are back! Colors include bark, mauve, raspberry, bay, and new ombres: fog (shown above) and stone (shown below). Soft and semi-sheer, the 50/50 cotton silk blend is smooth, warm and durable. Simple and irresistably beautiful.

smelling good

2009-09-08T17:27:00.007-04:00

Is feeling good, or at least it is in my book. My latest obsession is Monoi Oil. The Polynesian secret to silky skin and shining hair, it's been around for hundreds of years. Made out of pure, refined coconut oil infused with the essences of flowers, most commonly Tahitian Gardenia. Sweet and silky, it imparts a subtle, warm, and sensual scent, soaks in immediately, and moisturizes perfectly. With fall upon us, I'm trying to hold on to what summer glow I got, and this is precisely the way to do it.

sustainability manifesto

2009-09-05T13:33:00.004-04:00

In the store today I watched people falling in love with a variety of things, Stewart + Brown's Clairibel draped dress, a pair of "Stop" shoes from Cydwoq, Prairie Underground's Frock Coat. What struck me was that each item was appreciated entirely for it's aesthetic appeal...and then, we could tell the women about the sustainable qualities of the designs. Stewart + Brown's dress is a proprietary 95% hemp blend, made in LA, Cydwoq's hand-made shoes are all vegetable dyed leather, non-toxic glues and made in Southern California, and Prairie's coat is organic cotton, also made in the good ol' USA. All of this epitomizes my desire to provide excellent design, while still honoring conscience. I am so pleased to be able to offer items that we can feel good about on so many levels. There really is no reason to sacrifice style in the name of sustainable design. Every time we purchase anything we are making a statement with our dollars, why not love our purchases for their appeal to us, AND to support a healthier planet, and keep the innovative work of small designers alive and thriving? Makes me feel good.

new goodies...

2009-09-05T11:36:00.009-04:00

The girls often tease me at the beginning of a new season as I ooh and ahh over all the beautiful new pieces as they arrive. They tease me because I bought them, so obviously I like them. But truly, I forget, in the months that elapse from the moment of discovery to the actual arrival in their appropriate season, what I've ordered. So it really is like Christmas morning, opening boxes of cashmere and cotton, scarves and belts and hats... and rediscovering these splendid new friends.

Latest deliveries include unbelievable basics and better from Majestic. Majestic is one of those cult-like sleeper companies... They are vertically integrated, producing their sumptuous knits in a geothermally powered factory in France. And therefore can offer variety of fiber combinations unique to them: blends of cotton and cashmere, winter weight linen knits, and organic cottons. The textures are amazing. It's a brand which inspires a loyal following, and feels luxurious, even in a basic tee. This season's crop includes hand dyed long sleeve tees graduating in color from deep navy to black, charcoal grey leggings, plum and charcoal stripes, and a ton of simple straight ahead basics.
This week also brought a big box from local wonder Steven Alan. Lots of plaids, both bright and subtle, bold and simple. And a striped cashmere sweater that I will be dreaming about. And and and...

Dreamy leather bags from local new wunderkind Aki Kano, whose designs merit a post all their own. New Ember candles and more from our sensual fave: Jimmy Jane, and the pure luxury and pure color of Armand Diradourian's cashmere scarves.

BackBlog...

2009-09-01T16:56:00.009-04:00

With school starting up again next week, and the days suddenly getting shorter (dark by 8, say it isn't so!), not to mention the warm and lovely things that are flooding the store, I thought it might be time for a little summer flash back. Explain my blogging absence in photos.. (excuse the gratuitous kid shots... sometimes it can't be helped, and summer really is one of those times)

So, back after a lovely summer. And yes, I have weaknesses for bbq'ed oysters, heirloom tomatoes, the ferry from San Francisco, messy spaghetti dinners, and Tomales Bay, not necessarily in that order.

My, how time flies...

2009-05-17T10:54:00.006-04:00

Here is something that has been on my radar for a while now, but needs to be shared, over and over!
The wonderful 3/50 Project- an idea whose time has come.

*3* Think about which three independently owned businesses
you’d miss most if they were gone. Stop in and say hello.
Pick up a little something that will make someone smile.
Your contribution is what keeps those businesses around.

*50* If just half the employed U.S. population spent $50 each
month in independently owned businesses, their purchases
would generate more than $42.6 billion in revenue.*
Imagine the positive impact if 3/4 of the employed
population did that.

*68* For every $100 spent in independently owned stores,
$68 returns to the community through taxes, payroll, and
other expenditures. If you spend that in a national chain,
only $43 stays here. Spend it online and nothing comes home.

*1* The number of people it takes to start the trend...you.

Visit: www.the350project.net

Basics

2009-04-09T12:25:00.004-04:00

In this time of "Back To Basics" I thought perhaps I should take it literally. So here are a few of the basics I love...

Petit Bateau tissue weight tees
Steven Alan's Reverse Seam crisp cotton shirts
Bruce Springsteen
Billy Kirk's beautifully wrought Amish made skinny leather belts
An Epice scarf- perhaps not quite basic, but bright, accomplished and fun
Havaianas. Perfection in the form of a flip flop
Loomstate Karma jeans. Organic, straight legged Americana
Kai perfume oil. Fresh gardenias, bright sunshine and clear green grass- the heart of spring/summer in a bottle
Nutella
Utility Canvas throw. Sturdy, bright and ever so versatile

And just for fun...the Not Quite Basic List (dear cousin to the above)

Lisa Curran's gorgeous, flattering and comfy swimsuits
Mexican embroidered cotton blouse, a colorful and perfect accompaniment to Lisa's suits
The Summer Boot from Coclico. Earth friendly, foot friendly and adds a sophisticated toughness to all of Springs floaty fabrics
Hartford's bright cotton cardigans
Erica Tanov's sexy, subtle and luxurious silk slips
Cydwoq sandals. Unusual, unusually comfortable and effortlessly cool
Armand Diradourian's summer weight cashmere wrap- perhaps this should have been a basic?
An Araks "Uma" bra. Wrenchingly lovely
Alexander Juarez's hand crocheted necklaces
Virginia Johnson's Grecian style whale printed dress

love and pictures

2009-03-17T18:03:00.013-04:00

A pretty post from cherrypatter brightened my morning. Thanks! And her lovely photos inspired me to post a few of my own... So here is how the store is looking this afternoon:

also, I wasn't kidding about the goodies arriving daily. Today brought in a big box from Velvet, spring sandals from Cydwoq and new Majestic (stunning).

random inspiration of the day

2009-03-16T15:10:00.008-04:00

I spent some time this past weekend curled up with Judy Rodgers' modern culinary classic, the Zuni Cafe Cookbook. The Californian ingredients make me a little homesick, and the unusual and more thought out preparations make ordinary dishes sparkle.

Here it is, in all it's tome-like glory

new in...

2009-03-13T11:00:00.011-04:00

above: Prairie Underground 3/4 sleeve Cloak Hoodie in Lavendar,
Stewart + Brown cotton lawn tunic dress

It's still pretty chilly in Brooklyn, but the store has begun to bloom. Shipments are arriving daily, and we are thrilled to have already opened boxes from: Hartford, Stewart & Brown, Prairie Underground, Steven Alan and a slew of others. Fabulous scarves are expected from Epice any moment, and Coclico's divine vegetable dyed leather spring boots are keeping us dreaming. Standouts include Hartford's assortment of linen and colorful cotton print tops, as well as Majestic's sumptuous knits.
On the sustainable front, Prairie Underground has done it again. Feminine and cool with beautiful colors are the hallmarks of the current (well, pretty much all of their) collection(s), utilizing extra soft organic cotton fleece. The famous Cloak Hoodie is back in fresh colors and sweet three quarter length sleeves. And new dresses and tops exceed our already high expectations, with great fits and extremely flattering shapes. Modaspia, a lovely sustainable collection out of San Francisco, have produced the beautiful Fiji dress, organic and just... easy, an excellent summer option. And Stewart + Brown's spring basics are perfect: great details, super soft organic cotton and fresh colors.
Lisa Curran's flattering, simple and very wearable swimsuits are in, just in time for Spring Break. They look great paired with Matta's Indian cotton sarongs and Havaiana's in Spring shades. The below mentioned Peruvian Frasada's have arrived, and are just as gorgeous as I remembered...
Wow. The more I think about it, the more I want to tell you about! Come in! There are just too many.

feeling Lucky

2009-01-27T21:32:00.026-05:00

Recent press from Lucky Magazine's shop girl. Thanks Emily!

at left, our current window: beautiful resort wear from Matta, Velvet, Epice, Virginia Johnson and a swimsuit from Vix. at right: a glimpse of the Bolivian frasadas to come.

We've been busy photographing new items for the site, as well as shopping for new lovelies coming in the Spring (can't wait for the gorgeous one-of-a-kind Bolivian frasadas) and cooking up a storm- my usual way to stem the hibernation blues.

So for now:
Song of the day: Jailhouse Tears by Lucinda Williams and featuring Elvis Costello- sounding like vintage Costello- (does that make sense??) from her most recent and really excellent album, Little Honey.

And recipe: Chocolate bread. Mine came out looking much like the picture in the npr article, and tasting fabulous- warm, buttery, and not too sweet with that fresh-bread yeasty goodness- I was proud.

2009-01-20T11:30:00.005-05:00

Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we've been waiting for.
We are the change that we seek.
-Barack Obama

screenprints from Deroy Peraza, at Hyperakt Design, Brooklyn

Welcome Barack, Michelle, Malia and Sasha- We are so proud of this moment!

jumping on the bandwagon

2009-01-15T11:00:00.014-05:00

Not surprisingly, I really loved "Slumdog Millionaire", director Danny Boyle's colorful, gritty, clever and Dickensian film. I was especially taken with A.R. Rahmans spectacular soundtrack.
On a different note (;-)), I've noticed that our most popular item in the store this season is, hands down, the shearling lined clog boots from Sven. With fur extending all the way down, including the footbed, these babies are deliciously warm and all-day-long comfortable. Just what you need when the high for the day is 18 degrees, as we are enjoying today. Even better, they improve with age, as evidenced by my own much loved and well used (abused?) pair:
See them here.

warm fuzzies (aka cheesecake)

2009-01-08T19:45:00.009-05:00

Winter sparks the cooking bug in me, and I crave rich foods (actually the "winter" bit is really a red herring- I crave rich foods just about all the time): pot roast, french toast, endless bacon, and most recently cheesecake. This recipe, my introduction to all cheesecake and therefore my standard-bearer, came from my aunt Susan- a chef of some renown in our family. When in need of an excellent, basic and delicious cheesecake recipe, you've found it.

Aunt Susan's Famous Cheesecake
preheat oven 350 degrees

3 8oz. packages of cream cheese- room temperature
3 eggs
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cream the cheese, add eggs one at a time, and sugar and vanilla. Blend well.
Line a springform pan with a basic graham cracker crust. I use the honeymaid grahams, 1/3 of the box (they are packaged in thirds, so it is easy to measure) crushed with a pestle and mixed with a stick of melted butter. pour cream cheese mixture onto the crust and bake for 30-40 minutes, until just set.
Turn the oven temperature up to 500 degrees
mix:

one pint of sour cream
1 Tablespoon of sugar
2 Tablespoons of vanilla extract

pour over cake, smoothing gently. Return to the oven for 6 minutes
Allow cake to cool completely, then refridgerate.

I served it with this blueberry topping: simple and very very good

Wash a pint of berries, I used blueberries but I imagine substituting for your preference would be fine.
Place approximately 1/3 of them in a saucepan over medium low heat with
1/3-1/2 cup of sugar and the
juice of 1/2 a lemon
cook, stirring frequently for about ten minutes- until you've achieved a jam-like texture.
Let the mixture cool to about room temperature, then
mix in the remaining fresh berries

Happy New Year

2009-01-01T18:10:00.007-05:00

We are home and cozy and have bid farewell to 2008. I'm looking forward to '09 with hope and cautious optimism. The house smells wonderful, the boys are busy with all that Santa and our generous family bestowed, and all is well.

The store is packed with excellent bargains as we embark on our biggest sale to date. Steals include the last lucky pairs of Repetto shoes at a remarkable 70% off, as well as a store-wide shoe clearance at 50% off, including the handmade lovelies from Chie Mihara and Cydwoq. Stop by and visit us in Brooklyn, or peruse the pages of the site.
Happy 2009!

2008-11-21T00:02:00.000-05:00

Today’s window: Cydwoq shoes, scarves from Virginia Johnson, Epice, and Armand Diradourian, sweater coat from Stewart & Brown, Erica Tanov jacket, and recycled resin bracelets from Solange.

Welcome!

2008-11-18T11:26:00.003-05:00

The leaves have fallen, and the snowflakes have made a (very brief) appearance- it must be November in Brooklyn. The store is overflowing with warm and lovely pieces from our favorite designers. Highlights include colorful and luxurious cashmere from Armand Diradourian, Virginia Johnson's graphic, chic printed wool scarves, Sven's handmade, fur-lined, wooden soled clog boots, and Mischa Lampert's hand spun and crocheted wool hats.