Ray Bans: Aviator vs Wayfarer

There are some gorgeous sunglasses out there,  but I always gravitate towards Ray Bans.  Now that the sun is staying up longer (YAY for Daylight Savings) I'm feeling the need for a new pair of shades. But I can't decide, should I go for Aviators or Wayfarers?

Let's take a look at the Aviators first. Bausch & Lomb developed the aviator style in the 1930's, were popularized in WWII when General Douglas MacArthur sported a pair and were all the rage starting in the 1960's up until now.  Look who's a fan of this classic style:

Jennifer Anniston

Johnny Depp. Rarr....

Don't know who she is, but she is gor-ge-ous!

And the ever fab Mrs. Beckham 

(how great do gold aviators look with a man's gold watch?)

Wayfarers, on the other hand, were developed by Bausch & Lomb in 1952 as one of the first styles of non-metal sunglasses.  The Wayfarers were "a mid-century classic to rival Eames' chair and Cadillac's tail fins," according to design critic Stephen Bayley. This "new wave" style was popular throughout the 50's and 60's, lost some momentum in the 70's, but the hit their pinnacle of acclaim in the 80's and are currently experiencing a resurgence. 

Audrey Hepburn

So which would you choose? Aviators or Wayfarers?

{images via Habitually Chic,  Atlantic-Pacific & Vanessa Jackman}

eMag: Lonny March/April 2011

Another great issue of Lonny! Check out my favorite home from this issue:

Note to self: Design a home with black floors and window frames, loads of high gloss white trim and finish with glass door knobs.  A coordinating black dog would be a plus (maybe this should be my home, since I already have the puppy).

And don't miss the article on Miss Kelly Wearstler! 

Still can't get enough of her studio. Sigh.... so fabulous.

House Crush: Sloan Mauran's House

Leave it to those Canadian designers to design yet another stunning home. They have the most impeccable taste.  Check out the residence of Toronto interior designer, Sloan Mauran.

I adore the brass hardware. A perfect example of how to mix silver and gold.

LOVE the mix of formality and family.  See, you CAN have chic rooms that are kid friendly.

There's a starburst mirror over the bed. Do I really have to say anything else?

To see more of this beautiful home, go here.

{images via Canadian House&Home}

Eye Candy: Men's Gold Watch

Have I told you how much I adore men's gold watches?

Well, I do. 

{image via ThisIsGlamorous}

Eye Candy: Monochromatic Frames

Perfection.

{image via Elle Decor}

Look for Less: X-Bench

There are a handful of pieces that will never date.  Chesterfield sofas, starburst mirrors, trestle tables are a few examples.  One of my absolute favorites is the X-bench (remember when I used one in this Louis Vuitton inspired room?).  Whether your style is contemporary, traditional, country, or something in between, I bet you could find a place for this design staple.

Like the master bath...

...the master bedroom...

...the living room...

...and even the dining room!

 William-Sonoma X-bench in leather (starting at $1700)

As you can see, they can cost you a pretty penny.  It's a great investment if you have the moo-lah, but most of us don't.  Let's take a peak at some looks for less!

 Jonathan Adler X-Bench (starting at $495)

Ballard Designs X-Bench in Domino Chocolate Fabric (starting at $275)

Serena & Lily X-Bench in Antique Linen (starting at $850)

Ballard Design X-Bench in Suzanne Kasler Linen Flax (starting at $275)

Where would you place one in your home?

{images via Decor Pad, Elle Decor & William-Sonoma Home}

A Lil' Leopard

Can you believe it's March? Hallelujah!! I'm so over Winter.  Over the next few weeks the weather can be finicky, so what better than to throw a leopard swing coat over that Spring dress you've been dying to wear?

{images via Net-a-Porter, Vanessa Jackman & EmersonMade}