Smells like Italia!

I can't explain what is happening to me lately, but ever since the breeze of warm weather has slowly crept in, shuffling out Spring and Summer time reminding us that it'll be another fierce season, I keep thinking of my honeymoon in Italy. Which brings me to my scent obsessions for all things citrus.

Recently I received a flyer for a new scent by Dior called Escale a Portofino. The moment I smelled the fragrance I was transported to Capri, Italy. Everytime I say or think Capri, I smell lemons in the air. That is why Dior's Portofino has made my top 3 fave scents for this summer's MUST HAVE!

Why citrust scents in the summer? Italians know that nothing relives you of the heavy hotness like the light and sweet or tartiness of a citrus fruit (Grapefruits/Oranges/Lemons). So spritz on summer scents, and if you still need to cool off, have a Limoncello!

CIAO!

Claude's Summer Scent Picks:

Dior Escale a Portofino $85 available at Nordstrom

Acqua di Parma $98-127 available at BlueMercury.com

Jo Malone's Verbenas of Provedence $55 available at JoMalone.com

Under the Influence

Taking a page from Gwenyth Paltrow's GOOP blog from April 9th, I decided to have a looksy this morning in my closet and do a little "Closet Shopping". Although I do not possess high end items as this leading lady does - to quote Sarah Jessica Parker "Fashion is not a Luxury"! Amen Sister! It's a good idea to do this seasonal (if possible), that way, no unworn goodies get left behind, like my Betsy Johnson belt I got on sale at Lord & Taylor. Also, the continous unworn items you can get rid of.

My finds for this morning:

Geoffrey Beene empire dress $29.99
Aerie black leggings $11.99
Jessica Simpson ballerina flats $39.99
Betsey Johson belt from the "Betseyville" collection $23.99 (not pictured)

I was as surprised as anyone to find the dress and that BELT! Oh I love this belt! I'll have to photograph it and post it.

Take this weekend and go through your closet space and do some of your own closet shopping. Please come back and share your wonder-finds! Oh, and if you haven't already, sign up for GOOP updates...fashion isn't the only thing on this beautiful mind.

The Beauty Bailout

I could never resist a play on words.

Times are tight, and probably bound to get worse before it gets better, but no need to cut-out your beauty regime. You still need your basics like shampoo, body moisturizer, hair tools and makeup. Check out the list below, it's my stimulus package for your basics and much more!

BeautySteals.com - High end sking care on SALE!
RayBeauty.com -Pro Hair tools at great prices
Alconeco.com - Beauty essentials
Luckyscent.com - for $3 mini bottles of posh perfumes
BeautyCrunch.com - Save up to 75% off make-up

These sites recommended and approved by LuckyMag and Glamour.com

Fashion meets Technology

I have a feeling this will be a hit with the ladies (or daring gentlemens) this Spring.

As featured in Elle Décor, Vogue, Vanity Fair, Marie Claire, and Lucky - It's the first Mini PC laptop shaped like a clutch purse. The laptop is designed by Hewlett-Packard, the purse Asian designed by Viviene Tam. Wonders what two great minds can accomplish when they work together.

Some features include:
- Ultra Sleek 10.1" display only 2.45 lbs and a mere 1" thin
- 1-year Warranty with HP Accidental Damage Protection
- Keep in touch with email, web, IM and hottest fashion trends,
and Beauty Swirl Blogs!

Retail Value $699
HP Official Site