Fur Is Green

I know that many people, some of which belong to PETA, will be quite upset when they hear that I love fur. I’m sorry if you think that I’m cruel and tourtering small animals. I’m sorry you feel that way. But, I think it’s luxurous, classic, classy, and WARM. I have always loved fur. I think it goes back to my roots. My Grandmothers both wore fur. And my mother also wore an incredible black mink.

Lucky me, I inherited these fabulous coats. I can not tell you how much I enjoy them. I know that someone will be offended when they hear this but, oh well, you can’t make everyone happy.

I was thrilled to see this web site from the Canadian Fur Council. FUR IS GREEN! So true. Fur is natural, won’t hurt the environment and can be recycled (yes, you can have your great Aunt Trudy’s fur refurbished to look more like you).

http://www.furcouncil.com/ecological.aspx

Here are some fun facts about fur.

First of all, the fur trading industry has been around for 400 years!

Most fur is farmed. And, actually, the fur is treated quite well (until death, that is). Fur farmers are interested in breeding healthy animals. The healthier the animal, the better the fur.

There are more than 6,000 fur farms in Europe.

Some celebrities who show off their fur include: Nicole Richie and Kimora Lee Simmons. So, get your Grandma’s fur out of those moth balls and strut down the street in your fur!

Is Anyone Else A Foodie?

There's only one thing I love more than fashion, and that's food. The holidays are evidence that I'm not alone. From home baked cookies and pies to gifts of almond brittle and gingerbread, people love their food. Many people don't love to cook, though. I, however, seem to be in the minority. My mother's kitchen was always filled with fantastic smells. I never knew what culinary adventures awaited me when I walked through the door. Some of the ideas were fantastic, such as the home-made cheese ball made with several types of high quality cheese. Some ideas weren't; the deviled eggs with truffle oil will forever go down in history (with my dear friend John and myself) as the only bad thing to come out of the Romano kitchen.

While I may not be that inventive, I certainly do enjoy the process (and result) of cooking. I appreciate the food channel (maybe too much) simply because you get such incredible ideas from watching professionals. I recently took a cooking class. I will admit that I felt I had a leg up on some of my other classmates. I know how to simmer. I know how to chop. I was also surprised that the instructor was appalled that I apparently chopped oregano the wrong way. Honestly, it hadn't occurred to me to pluck each tender leaf off of the stem and then chop it. I was embarrassed by my ignorance and went back to watching the food channel where I could maintain the embarrassment to the privacy of my own home.

Comfort food has always been big with me. I love a good stew or a savory goulash. After suddenly craving cassoulet, I made a pot of it for my good friend Robert. The easy to make stew is made with chunks of chicken, sausage, white beans, stewed tomatoes, all percolating with chicken stock. We practically licked our plates when we were through.

As a self proclaimed "foodie", I must tell you all about a fantastic shop that a friend introduced to me. The Naples Gourmet Grocer is Located on 2nd Street in Naples (in the same center as the Rite Aid). I purchased some organic French lentils for a soup. It was beyond incredible; a product of using high quality products to start with. You'll find nestled in this quaint shop things like tomato paste in a tube (which is utter genius - you can use just at tad and put the resealable tube in the fridge rather throwing away the remainder of a can) and fig/almond paste to accompany brie. In addition to grocery items they also have gourmet sandwiches such as ham and brie on pretzel bread. If you need a gift for someone, they have a fantastic chocolate section filled with wonderful ideas for the chocolate lover.

You can find Naples Gourmet Grocer at 5650 E 2nd Street in Naples. Check out their web site for detailed directions. http://naplesgourmetgrocer.com/

Get Ready To Jet Set

The holidays are a wonderful time to get together with family and friends. Many of us schlep through airports trying to get Thanksgiving dinner "back home". I thought I'd offer some of my tried and true travel tips, especially for those who haven't traveled lately.

First of all, I highly recommend checking the TSA web site before you travel. Yes, I'm a geek and I check out the site. http://www.tsa.gov/
Not only do they list what items you can and can not carry on the plane but, they also have helpful packing tips, as well.

I thought it was slightly comical that on the TSA web site some of the things that they ask you NOT to pack include gravy, wine (yes, they have a bar in the terminal) and snow globes. Anything that you feel you just can't live without and you refuse to check, please, for the love of God, send it FedEx to your destination. Take my advice on this one. Or, make Aunt Ethel's Jell-O mold when you get there. Seriously, no one will know the difference!

Sorry, I digress… the TSA web site has great packing tips. For example, DO NOT pack wrapped presents. They're going to make you unwrap it when you go through security, anyway. Also, keep in mind that TSA has the authority to riffle through your stuff - even if it's checked luggage. Yes, it's happened to me. They'll leave a lovely note in your suitcase stating that they looked through your stuff. (Another reason not to pack anything too embarrassing, if you know what I mean.)

The general rule for liquids is what TSA calls their 3-1-1 rule. Make sure any liquids that you want to carry on are less than 3 ounces. This does not mean pack the 5 ounce tube of toothpaste that's half used - make sure it's a 3 ounce container. (Just think of this as a great time to try out all of those sample sized moisturizers that you receive as a gift with purchase.) Put all of your liquids (this includes mascara, toothpaste, and moisturizer) in ONE quart sized plastic bag. One bag is allowed per passenger, that it.

Of course, as you know we all have to take off our shoes and schlep through the metal detector with our bare feet (what a way to mess up a pedicure). And for those of you who think that you're exempt from this rule, you're not. Just take the shoes off and put them in the bin, just like everyone else. Please don't try to walk through security with them on - you'll just slow down the line.

If you have a lap top, they WILL ask you to put it in the bin. I was recently on my way to Chicago when the guy in front of me in the security line didn't take off his shoes, or his lap top out of his bag, and just stood there like a bump on a log. Come on! We're all in this together! None of us want to spend an hour in line in security when we could be enjoying a pre-flight chardonnay and a little schmoozing at the bar. If you're a novice traveler, just remember to follow the person in line in front of you and READ the signs posted. They'll tell you what to do.

On a more personal note, I'd just like to say that I love my weekend jaunts. My Samsonite black label carry on and I have a good relationship - better than most that I've had with men. I do understand that flying coach (gasp!) is quite uncomfortable, especially for those of us who do get quite claustrophobic. But, Darlings, that's no reason to go around looking like a jackass! Please, leave your neck pillow in your bag where we can not see it. After all, one can not jet set with a bright red neck pillow hooked to our Samsonite like a life preserver.

Can't I Be Grace Kelly For A Day?

When I grow up I want to be Grace Kelly.

One of the reasons I love cable TV is that I can watch AMC any time of the day or night. I simply love watching “old” movies. (I write that like “old”, as in “allegedly old”, because if my mother were around she would say that they’re “classics” not “old”.)

For me, these movies have such classic style that I never get sick of watching them. When I’m finished watching the movie, I always want to order champagne (in a wide rim champagne glass, of course) and listen to some Cole Porter.

Spending my night here watching Rear Window, for just a bit I’m absorbed in a time of classic pump heels and full a-line skirts. My question for the day is …. Is it too much to ask for Grace Kelly’s wardrobe? I have the blond hair; I might be able to pull it off. Well... maybe.

Let's Talk Social Responsibility

I'm sure you've all figured out by now that I love to chat about shopping, fashion, traveling... basically, I keep things light with my blog. There's enough serious stuff on CNN to keep me up at night and enough problems that we all face, I feel that I don't need to bring it up any more than necessary.

But, my friends, today I feel the need to talk about social responsibility. I had the misfortune of signing up for a trunk show that had inadvertently been cancelled. I informed all of my loyal customers about my new chic products and received exciting feedback from all of you - you were happy to come. When I arrived at the event location, I found that the owner of the shop had cancelled the event and that the event promoter was nowhere to be found. (I tried my best to track down all of those who were scheduled to come but, alas, I could not find the phone numbers for all of you. If you showed up to Suddenly Slimmer, I deeply apologize. )

What I would like to know is when did it become socially acceptable to be flaky? I'm the type of person who does what they say, because I firmly believe that my word is worth something. If you've hosted a party with me, you know that I confirm the party 2 weeks before the event and then also the day before. Some people call that being anal retentive, some people call that being "type A", I call that being socially responsible. I think it's something that our society has forgotten, in many ways. This is the same reason why for any dinner party you might get 20 RSVP's and 50 people show up.

I would like to SHOW you how dedicated I am to my customers. Given the events of this weekend, if you would like to purchase a bag, for this weekend only I'm offering a FREE zip up bag and FREE shipping along with my sincerest apologies.

If you'd like to take advantage of my offer, check out my web page (http://www.europachic.com/) and call or email me which bag you would like to receive. I'll send you a confirmation email and then a tracking number for your package.

Again, I sincerely apologize regarding the event. I'll do my best to promote events in the future with those who are more responsible.

Chicago, Chicago....

If you ever find yourself in the windy city you'll certainly never run out of things to do. I took the chance that my Southern California butt wouldn't freeze off in Chicago in November and went out for a few days to visit a friend. I surprised to find that not only was the weather perfect for fall but that I completely enjoyed the city, too.

Chicago has the big city vibe just like any other. Of course, I found some great shopping. As my mother once said about me "she can smell money being spent". At the intersection of Armitage and Halsted in Lincon Park there's a charming area where one can wander the streets, shop, eat or just enjoy the architecture.

Loris Shoes is a fantastic shoe store that is must see for any shoe addict. They offer fantastic unique designer shoes at prices that won't melt your credit card. You'll find boots, flats, pumps and every other shoe type under the sun at Loris. You'll also find a bevy of accessories such as large tote bags and clutches. Loris Shoes (The Sole of Chicago) is located at 824 W Armitage. If you're dying to visit the place but just can't get there, visit the web site www.lorisshoes.com.

In the same quaint neighborhood, you can get a good chocolate fix. Just venture west on Armitage and you'll find Ethel's Chocolate Lounge. This inviting chocolate shop offers every type of chocolate you can imagine. In addition to truffles in fun flavors (be sure to check out the cocktail collections), hot chocolate, coffee and fondue are also available to enjoy there at the lounge. Ethel's has several locations in Chicago and also in Las Vegas. Check out their web site for all the locations. http://www.ethelschocolate.com/

After an exhausting shopping excursion, my friend and I headed to the John Hancock Center for cocktails. The Signature Room is located on the 95th floor of the John Hancock Center. This restaurant offers a brunch that will rival all others. If you're not in the mood for food but just a little cocktail, you might want to head to the 96th floor, to the Signature Lounge. Make sure you visit on a clear day so that you can fully enjoy the fantastic view of the city and perhaps a cocktail or two... or four. Surprisingly enough the ladies room on the 96th floor is known for the view. With a 180 degree view, don't forget to bring your camera to the ladies room… well, maybe not, but do enjoy the view.

Of course, the food in Chicago is incredible. For those that love seafood there's Devon Seafood Grill (39 E Chicago Ave). It's just a quick walk from Michigan Ave. After a day of sightseeing and helping out the local economy, Devon's is a fun place to people watch and enjoy good food and drinks. Right on the corner of Chicago Ave and Wabash Ave, Devon's bar offers a great local.

Another fun spot is the Landmark Grill (1633 N Halsted); they have a menu that will make you drool just a little bit. Try the scallops - they're fantastic. The Landmark Grill is quite near both the Steppenwolf Theatre and the Royal George Theatre; they accommodate theatre goers to make sure they get to their seats on time. Just next door to the Landmark Grill is the Royal George Theatre. If the grand-scale theatre productions (and their grand scale prices) aren't your thing perhaps you might find something that suits your taste at the intimate Royal George.

After a weekend of shopping and eating I felt as if I had truly accomplished a great deal. I only sampled a few of the fun things to do in this town. I can hardly wait until next trip to Chicago to see what I missed.

Let's Talk Italian Fashion!

I was watching a business report on CNN where a woman was talking about a well known retail chain that just opened up stores in China. She commented that fashion is the same everywhere. As such, they will not have to adapt to the local culture. If that were the case we'd all look like the Will Smith from "Men in Black", sporting our basic black suits. Fashion is not the same everywhere. I spend much of my vacations noting fashion similarities, differences and how I can incorporate new, fun, smart ideas into my wardrobe.

In Italy, they're all about fashion. You don't have to walk far to see Dolce and Gabbana, Armani, Prada, etc… While many Americans are all about the knockoffs and the discount retailers, Italians embrace the designer label and the price that comes with it.

For many Americans, "business casual" is not only a part of our vocabulary but also a part of our closet. We now have little need for a formal suit (be sure to remember that the next time you wear your navy blue suit for the secretive interview… I mean, "Doctor's appointment"). Italians don't really understand the concept of "business casual". For them, a suit is their work uniform. And I can understand why everyone loves the Italian style; a nice suit goes a long way.

Most of the suits were classic cut with classic colors (black or navy). The shoes, of course, were superior. There's something about the Italian shoes that compels me to get out my MasterCard. The pointy toe is alive and well in Italy. And, of course, the stiletto can be seen everywhere. While we're on the subject, I have to give the Italian women some credit. I have ultimate respect for any woman that can walk in 4 inch stilettos … on cobble stones… and not kill herself in the process. I twisted my ankle on one of those nasty misplaced cobblestones. I, on the other hand, was wearing flats.

I must admit that I went to Italy with a mission in mind: she who leaves with the most shoes wins. While I consider myself a black belt in shoe shopping, I was not prepared for the Italian price tag. Do not be surprised to see shoes in the price range of 150 Euros and up. Keep in mind that the Euro is 40% higher than the dollar right now. So, 150 Euros = $210. As far as I'm concerned, for over $200, there better be a designer label on those shoes. They better look stunning on me. Aw hell, for that price, they better come with date, too. My shoe bubble deflated as I ventured into shoe store after shoe store. Yes, the shoes were cute. Yes, they seemed to be well made. But, there were no cuter, and actually much more bland than those that I had purchased for 45 Euros in Spain last year.

One store where I did find luck was Bata (which probably translates to " 'Payless Shoe Source' for the dumb Americans who won't pay for the designers", in Italian). Their shoes were cute, surprisingly comfortable and, on average, under 100 Euros. AND they said "made in Italy" on the bottom. I found my Italian shoes!

Now I just needed a scarf. Italians, as many Europeans, wear scarves at every occasion. You can find cashmere pashmina scarves every place from open air markets to the accessories shops, dedicated to gloves and scarves. In southern California no one wears scarves, perhaps due to the fact that it doesn't get very cold in the winter. Regardless, I needed a scarf. With a stroke of luck, at an open air market in Siena I found a cashmere / silk blend scarf for 5 Euros.

Another noteworthy accessory that the Italian women LOVE is their boots. Everything from cowboy boots to the swash-blucking kind could be found at virtually every store. They wear boots when it's 85 degrees outside and they still look fantastic. I think it's that sort of confidence that makes the rest of us envy Italian women. How do you rock ankle boots in July, is my question? Well, you can't do it without the ultimate confidence that you look fantastic no matter what. I think that in that sense, we should all be a little more Italian.

Anyone for some Chianti?

A fantastic introduction to Tuscany is a Chianti Wine Tour. There are many tour groups that offer tours of the Chianti region. Some tour groups are private - and range in price in between 200 to 250 Euros per person. I honestly didn't want to (a)spend $350 a person on a wine tour and (b) spend an entire day listening to a spiel about wine - there's only so much you canhear about wine in one day.

I chose the Cor Magis travel group because they would (a) pick us up/drop us off at the hotel and (b) it was 60 Euros per person for the tour. You reserve a tour and find other tours in Tuscany on their web site. http://www.cormagistravel.it/

The tour guide, Alberto, picked us up in a mini-van and gave us background on the region and the workings of the Chianti industry. For years, this wine could be found in a round bottle in a straw basket (and wasn't particularly known for its high quality). Over the years, the wine has improved and now rivals the rest of the good red wines you would find in a quality wine shop.

It turns out that making Chianti is serious business to the Italians. Wine named "Chianti Classico" can only be made in the Chianti region of Italy and must follow certain legal regulations. First and foremost, the wine must be made from about 70% sangiovese grapes. The rest of the wine is a blend from a local white (believe it or not) and another type of red. Chianti Classico Reserve represents the best Chianti out of several years. It's at the discretion of the wine maker if they choose to release a reserve that year.

Another interesting fact about Chianti is that you should always look for the thin pink label around the neck of the bottle. The ribbon is a certification that the wine is Chianti. Alberto explained that if the bottle says Chianti but doesn't have the pink label, it's not truly Chianti.

During the tour we visited 3 local villages (Radda, Castellina, Montalcino)and 2 wineries. The first winery I could have done without. The second, however, was a must-see.

Paggio Amorelli is a charming winery outside Catellina. Marco Mazzarrini was the wine maker and our host at this winery. Their friendly dog welcomed each visitor, one by one, hopeful for some affection in return. After about 2 seconds of talking with Marco, I could tell that wine-making is his passion. He explained that every day he checks the temperature of the wine as it ferments, sometimes every 5 hours each day. He also explained how to determine if a bottle of red wine is good or bad based upon things like color and clarity.

From there the wine tasting began. With prosciutto, parmesan, and home made bread as a snack, we tasted about 5 wines. Half way through, Marco also shared sliced tomatoes covered in olive oil. He said they were from his father in law's yard; the fresh ripe taste of the tomatoes tasted home grown.

The wine was good, to say the least and a selling point is that the shipping costs are included when you buy a bottle of wine. The Super Tuscan (certainly not a Chianti but a fantastic wine) is 45 Euros including shipping anywhere in the world, with a 6 bottle minimum.

The tour of the countryside and the wineries was a great way to spend a leisurely fall day in Tuscany.

Let us not stay at the Garden Hotel

Hello My Friends,

I decided to let this be my first post from Italy. I enjoyed a rather long drive from Rome to the Tuscan city of Siena. It took about 5 hours in all, including stopping for mass in Assisi (well, Dad went to mass) and lunch. We made it finally to our hotel, the Garden Hotel. It looked lovely and could hardly wait to get my tush out of the car and into a big glass of wine.

We were told at the front desk that "there is a problem" and they moved us to another hotel on the other side of town. After an HOUR of trying to navigate a poor map to given to us by the hotel, and circling the city (no joke) we ended up back at the hotel. My father was furious and told them that they literally had to take us to the hotel. I was about to have an anurism and felt that it was best not to open my mouth for fear of teaching them some interesting explictives in English.

The hotel manager wanted to know exactly what was wrong with the map and finally got us a hotel and transportation to the right hotel.

I was very disappointed because I (a) made these reservations SIX months in advance and (b) confirmed the week before. So much for hospitality at the Garden Hotel.

Just for your info, the people at the Jolly Hotel have been fantastic! Stay there instead.

Granada and The Alhambra

“Hello … My name is Marrrrrcccoo.” Standing before me, on our tour of the Alhambra, was the George Clooney of Spain – Marco. He wore large sunglasses, which matched with his jet black hair. While the rest of the tourists were sporting jeans or shorts (after all, it was September and all of the tourists were sweating their butts off), Marco wore a coral button down shirt and Dockers with a sweater tied around his neck. Very European. Needless to say, I was in love and hung on his every word, though now I can’t seem to remember the half of it. But, I digress. So there I was, at the Alhambra, in love with Marco… I mean, taking a tour.

The Alhambra is a fascinating place and a necessary visit if you go to Granada. Granada is the last city in Spain where Moslems and Jews were forced from the country by Isabel and Ferdinand in 1492. They were given a choice: convert to Christianity or leave. The Alhambra was the palace where the last Moslem monarchs of Spain resided. The last Moslem king was forced to flee Granada in order to avoid persecution by Ferdinand. As the story goes, he was leaving the city, watching Granada grow smaller in the distance, when his mother said something to the effect of “do not cry for something that you did not fight for”.

I highly recommend a tour of the Alhambra (maybe you can tour with Marco, too). There are so many details that one might not catch at first glance. A two hour tour might help to show all of the details. As the tour progressed, Marco continued to explain the intricate detail and architecture of everything from the walls to the ceilings and in between. There was one story that I found fascinating. Apparently, the Sultans used to wear all black from head to toe. As they walked past the windows of the palace, people from the outside of the palace would just see a black shadowy figure. (I guess that sends a message.)

I have to say that after an hour of sultans and history, I was ready for lunch. Luckily, the hotel was close. We stayed at the Alhambra Palace Hotel, just walking distance from the Alhambra. From the patio, you can see the entire city. I highly recommend staying at the hotel or at least sit on the patio and enjoy lunch and the view.

Spain ... Ole

Spain for me has always reserved romantic ideas of Don Quixote, Isabel and Ferdinand and, of course, Antonio Banderas. It has, in many ways, exceeded my expectations.

In late September, Spain is fantastic. Most of the tourists are gone and the
kids are back in school. Those of us who enjoy the warm weather, but prefer a more serene setting, know not to travel to Europe in August. The weather is temperate at that time; mid 70's during the day but chilly enough in the evenings for a light sweater.

The Spanish follow a siesta, closing shops from about 1PM to 4PM. I've found that if the time is nearing siesta and I'm browsing in a shop, it's helpful to ask the shopkeeper if they are taking a siesta that day. Those that I've talked to have appreciated my asking and will note when they're expecting to close.

Though it sounds great to take a nap from 1 to 4, I still have difficulty
grasping the Spanish timing. As a culture, they're night people. Don't expect to find a coffee shop open at 6AM or even 8AM. In my experience, I've found cafés do open at about 11-ish. You can get a coffee and a churro and that's about it. Speaking of coffee, I'll just point out now that Spanish coffee is strong - very strong. If you aren't a fan of a cappuccino from Starbucks you better not order one in Spain. Try a café au lait instead. If you're like me, and enjoy a little something for breakfast, I highly recommend heading to the Supermercado for some snacks/breakfast food.

Lunch is typically served starting at 1:00. If you're quite lucky you can find a place lunch open at noon, however I can guarantee that you'll be opening up the joint! For dinner, I prefer to call and make a reservation or simply ask what time the restaurant is open. Most restaurants in Spain don't open for dinner until 7PM at the earliest. Locals typically eat dinner around 9 or 10 PM.

While we're on the subject of food, Spanish food is fantastic. If you haven't tried it, you need to keep a few things in mind. As with many Mediterranean countries, the Spanish cook with olive oil. Not butter. Not lard. Olive oil. If you're a fan of Mexican food, remember that Spanish food is very different.

Here we go...

Most people who know me know that travel is my passion. Visiting a new place continues to be an adventure. As such, I thought it's only fitting to share my adventures in travel. Perhaps someone will become inspired and come to enjoy traveling as much as I do.

Travel has been my inspiration for starting my own business. My company sells handbags based on European design and functionality (without the European price). View my entire collection at: http://www.europachic.com/