why this “it bag” is back this fall!

I bought my first backpack when I was 28–years after graduating from college–splurging on the then-überhip black nylon version from Prada, which became a cult accessory of sorts  and put the company on the global fashion map. Now the backpack as fashion accessory is back in a big way. And why not? Style guru Jacqui Stafford told … Continue Reading

#1 secret to surviving the college tour in two words: spa day

My youngest daughter, a senior in high school, decided that it only made sense to visit every college and university to which she will apply this fall. “But, doesn’t it make even more sense to visit once you get an acceptance letter?” I queried (hopefully) back in January of her sophomore year when she started … Continue Reading

knit your way to cool, calm and healthy

Growing up in Brooklyn, my no-nonsense German grandmother tried to teach me how to knit — a life skill she believed was the key to happiness. Like any adolescent, I rebelled and made excuses. “Tomorrow, Grandma, okay? Studying for a math test now, but I promise we’ll sit down and you can teach me. Can’t … Continue Reading