Stylish with Substance

A dear two-tonal maize straw tote with a cute printed lining and matching fabric tie closure---that is this J. Crew Bicolor Straw Tote. With a triangle shape and a juxtaposed tie to match its cotton poplin lining, this bag is sweet to stroll the boardwalk and I'm even thinking it would be a wonderful accent around the house to hold knitting or magazines, or stand on a table in a sitting room. Call me crazy! But at only $48, this tote could serve any duty.

The ultimate in 2006 trendy swimwear is this nautical blouson 2-piece by Liz Claiborne. If you want cool and cover from the sun, this tankini hides every spot of the belly. It has tummy control, but I don't think it's just for the plus-sized. Sure, it may not be for the very young, but this suit looks nice. With navy stripes, an embroidered anchor and braided straps to mimic a boat's rope, this suit is the perfect trend (especially for that last year of having a tummy, I wish it to all). But being in a beach theme, it certainly can outlast a craze.

It's too bad that there aren't stripes on the bottom piece to elongate a shorter body---the break-up breaks up the line and flow of a form. I just love those diagonal stripes, they're so flattering. Overall, it's a stylish suit that appeals better than most designed to cover and hide, something one would want to be seen in. That's great!

Jessica Simpson went out to lunch with a biker look, recently, including this studded black bag. While I don't recommend this drastic look, I do suggest that if you like it, try BE & D.

Feet! Ahh!

She did not win the award for those.