I was hoping to be able to write Cute things for Spring, but we are no where near it, despite record high temps across the country. But this email from Tom’s publicist made me happy, so that will do for now.

Tom’s Shoes, started by the stylish Blake Mycoskie (pictured above) has an admirable, and effective, program to help impoverished children in developing countries and here at home in the US.  For each pair of shoes purchased, one pair is donated to a child in need.

If you remember freshmen biology, there was a lecture at some point about all the nasty diseases one can pick up when walking barefoot in areas with challenging sanitation or indigineous parasites.  By wearing shoes, children have a much higher chance of being healthy and growing up strong.

To date, over 1,000,000 pairs of shoes have been given away through Tom’s One for One program.

I was so excited to hear that they are branching out from their first style, based on the Argintinean alpargata shoe, to include the ever handy and cute ballet flat.

New spring styles are pictured here, and best of all, they are still part of the One For One program. Pretty great, right?  All styles available at Toms.com. Prices range from $74-$78. Available starting tomorrow.

Which one(s) strike your fancy? I am getting the beige with the black cap toe to start.

IN THIS OUTFIT:

• Ksubi Delinquent Jean
• Mulberry Large Jody Shoulder Bag
• Tsumori Chisato Starry Stole
• James Perse Women White Casual T
• Wouters & Hendrix Smoky Quartz Necklace
• Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Denim Hi

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By Chris Elia

While Paris is a treat all springtime long, summer is really when the action heats up. As Americans, we are let loose on Europe while the Europeans are let loose on the beaches of Croatia. So… what to pack for a Paris and environs trip? I have a couple of trusty standby’s from the summer I worked in Paris and lived in the “maid’s quarters” of a posh 16th Arrondisement building – and to clarify: maid’s quarters means bed, sink, shower and that’s it. Thank you to the owners of the tabac downstairs for letting me do my makeup in their bathroom!

First of all – footwear. It’s the most important piece of the puzzle because it identifies Americans miles away. Stay away from the sneakers at all costs. Even if you have some sort of foot related issue. I recommend Hogan Sneakers for those who really need comfortable walking around shoes. They usually have matching laces or velro closures and thin rubber soles so look more discreet but are really comfortable. If that is not your style, chic Parisian women are running around in Converse All Stars these days – they have this way of pairing a light gray pair of hightops with skinny jeans, the perfect T and a scarf that allows them to be casual and super chic – do the same thing.

If you spend enough time in Paris you will start to notice most people wear the same few things with a wide array of smartly chosen accessories. So I would pack several scarves – both the Hermes silk kind and the long loose kind.

Jeans are ok, but preferably either skinny and dark or skinny and gray. The pencil skirt is the most versatile piece for Paris summers and transitions well to the beach if you decide to hit the Isle de Re or go south.

The cardigan works so well as a day to night transition piece. It doesn’t get too cool in the evenings in Paris but someplaces ( like museums) surprise with lots of AC. If you don’t want to wear it, throw it around your shoulders, not around your waist. That is another move that says “I am a tourist”.

After this, it is all about where you are going to hang out. If the Marais is your speed (young, hip, funky) then you have a wide palette of vintage and flea market find you can tap.

If the 16th or 7th is what you feel, then chic it up with scarves and stylish jackets and skirts.

Below are some of my favorite places to stop in Paris – some of these you may know, others took me decades to find. Check first on all the info – you never know hours and openings.

Le Bon Marche: 24, rue de Sevres (7th Arr) This is a wonderful small department store that merits a visit no matter what your budget, as despite being a Parisian favorite always has wonderful treasures inside.

Maria Luisa: 2, rue Cambon (1st Arr) One of the best women's boutiques in the city, it was recently several seperate storefronts and now is more consolidated.

Cadolle: 4, rue Cambon (1st Arr) Next door to Maria Luisa is a fabulous lingerie store featuring handmade artisinal quality pieces. Enjoy!

Karine Arabian: 4, rue Papillon (9th Arr) Jewelry and trinkets galore at this lovely tiny shop in the 9th – she used to work as head of Chanel's design and production. It shows.

And now…. to eat and enjoy!

Al-Ajami 58, rue Francois, 1st Arrondisment (right near Champs Elysee). Open 7 days a week. 01.42.25.38.44 tel Wonderful Lebanese food – always a hip crowd and interesting scene.

One of the best chocolatiers in Paris, in my opinion. Try it and tell me what you think:
Le chocolat par Michel Chaudun, 149, rue de l’Univeriste. 01 47 53 74 40 (7th Arr)

And one of the best patisserie / boulangeries: Secco. 20, rue Jean Nicot 01 43 17 35 20

If you find yourself in Passy, a slightly off the beaten track real Paris neighborhood in the 16th Arr with charming shops, do stop for a refreshment at The Cool (Tea Cool) 10, rue Jean Bologne 01 42 24 69 13.

And, something I always find difficult to locate, a florist in Paris: Des Fleurs 4, rue saint-Dominique. Perfect for a thank you or for you to enjoy!

I don’t know about you, but I knew it was summer when the lines at airport security suddenly tripled in wait time, and I was holding babies and briefcases just to move people along more efficiently ahead of me. I have a personal rule that I never (ever!) check my bags. It has less to do with the concern over lost bags, and more to do with the complete hassle of waiting in baggage claim and watching a taxi line grow ahead of me.

So I pack light. And for summer, I have found a couple of pieces that are in my bag every time I hop a plane, whether bound for NYC or Houston, San Jose or Cape Cod. I may even do a Denver stop-over, and certainly I will be in the Cleveland airport for at least one layover – so look for me!

Here is what I am loving that gets me from work to beach to bbq and back this summer:

Check out what Birkenstock has been up to! I personally can’t believe it, but I think these sandals are too cute! Plus, clearly, comfortable, and since they are black patent, I am giving them a spin in NYC and getting compliments! Click here to see / buy!

Folded, these sunnies will fit in my clutch which fits into my carry on, so they won’t get lost or squished or broken. And, they are great looking and no one can tell they fold when on! Click here to see / buy!

I get cold. All the time. Everywhere but directly in the blazing sun. When I go to meetings, I am dying of heat on the street, but then I go inside and freeze. And at night, I am always torn between the “liquid sweater” principle and the whole “who’s that pounding drinks” scenario. So, this cute jacket works well for daytime meetings and evenings at the beach or evening events where the wind can pick up and drive a gal into the warm embrace of a car’s seat heater. Click here to see / buy!

I think one statement piece of jewelry that is not so dramatic it can’t be worn again is the key to easy summer dressing. I love this necklace by House of Lavande, which you can buy in the HOL closet here. Click here to see / buy!

Perhaps it’s the concept of a collection that could be theoretically packable for an exotic getaway that entices me, yet the philosophy behind resort collections always leaves me fascinated with the angle designers take midseason. While this season conjured up geographically inspired collections panning from Rio de Janeiro at Diane von Furstenberg to Asian elements of the Far East over at Michael Kors, there was a broad range of influences that continued to showcase these designers signature strengths and iconic fall looks now translated and evolved for summer.

Thus, in the sprit of resort, the most likely collections I’d want to pack in a suitcase would be Thakoon for its playfully detailed sunset-inspired dresses, Prada for a brilliant intersection of high style and beach conscious attire in rich colors like tans, yellows, and blues, and finally, Oscar de la Renta, for a decidedly French inspired Oscar elegance. After all, my resort getaway this season will require a little imagination, so now I just need to pick a destination and start my CC packing list.

Photos credits-Style.com

Ladies – as you can probably tell by now, I await the summer invitation season with baited breath. Until I hit the proverbial jackpot (come on, Closet Couture!!) I rely on summer fun on friend’s turf. And I make it a priority to be invited back again. So, herewith, are some of my favorite gifts for fashionable hosts and hostesses who so graciously have me over for summer weekends filled with that cocktail of humidity, beer, beach, bbq and bug-spray – which to a girl living in SoCal is just magical.

1. Monogrammed beach towel. This one is a crowd pleaser, especially considering how towels, like socks, often just go missing over the course of a summer. So whether you take your dips in a lake, ocean, pond, stream or tub, hosts usually flip for these. And it makes you look like you really tried. Available at Preppymonogrammedgifts.com, for $20.00 (!)

2. Bucket of Havaianas. Not quite Indian giving (isn’t there a less offensive way to say this yet, ye gads) but it does pay to do this gift early in the season and then dip into the bucket when you need flops. I prefer a silver galvanized bucket that is small-ish and then I arrange a bunch of pairs of flops in different colors and sizes artfully (as best I can) in it. The look is art-installation floral, but much more fun by a back door or dock.

3. The Well-Lived Life. One of my favorite fashionable lifestyle books – I love what people are wearing in the photos. Here is the link for the book, and below is an outfit I think screams well-lived life. (and should you find yourself in a less-than-as-advertised situation, you can use it to indicate how you would prefer to weekend (you know who you are “cabin on the lake” weekend – cabins have 4 walls, not 3, that was a lean-to)

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Many are faced with the question of what to wear while visiting LA in the spring. It’s not yet summer, even in the City of Angels, so there is a constant breeze and it never gets to be over 75 degrees. That means all your stylish shorts and newly purchased rompers are just going to have to wait a couple more months. What's a gal to do? Pick transitional pieces like Katrina, whom I met on a style scouting mission for Closet Couture at the hip SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills. Katrina's visiting from Toronto and dialed in her spring chic look with layered, lightweight pieces from local hero American Apparel paired with personal faves from her travels to Spain!

By Kelli Wallace

The capital of Texas offers more than just amazing music festivals each year such as Austin City Limits and SXSW. It’s home to some of the best vintage shopping in the country, turning out an ever-so-stylish set of ladies and gents who know how to mix new with old impeccably; the most deliciously fattening Tex-Mex (chili con queso, anyone?); Lake Travis, a sprawling lake with the perfect sailing conditions; and much more. And yes, everything is bigger in Texas, including the spirit and pride of the people who are here because they want to be. Below, a roundup of some spots worth checking out on your next (or first) visit to Austin, Texas.

Feathers Vintage: By far the best spot to score on mint condition vintage clothing and accessories in Austin. They take vintage seriously and have everything merchandised so that it is easy to find, which is great considering vintage stores can be chaotic with everything strewn about. Feathers is also a supreme spot to find vintage designer handbags. 1700 S. Congress, Austin Texas 78703 (512) 912-9779

By George: Since 1977, By George has been the ultimate shopping destination to find independent designers as well as high-end. Owners Katy and Matthew Culmos buy pieces that will stand the test of time, never looking to trends to dictate their choice of merchandise. The atmosphere and sales staff are friendly and unpretentious, which goes to show why they remain the best retailer for clothing and accessories in the city. There are two locations: one on 6^th and Lamar that carries more contemporary pieces from independent designers, and one on S. Congress where you’ll find Dries van Noten, Lanvin, Chloè, Marni and much more. 524 N. Lamar, Austin 78703 (512) 472-5951 and 1400 S. Congress, Austin 78704 (512) 441-8600

Barton Creek: If you’re up for a little hike and some swimming, Barton Creek is the way to go. In the middle of the wilderness in Zilker Park, you can catch some rays on the rocks and take a dip in the creek. It can be kind of a scene during busy times of the year like SXSW, but it’s still worth checking out. Not to be mistaken for Barton Springs pool, this is more of a park-your-car-and-go for a 15-minute hike to paradise. www.texasescapes.com

Polvo’s: Hands down the best Tex-Mex in Austin. Located in South Austin, Polvo’s has a salsa bar that will blow your mind. They also make mean Micheladas (a Bloody Mary made with beer instead of vodka) that will have you loving life the rest of the day. The food will make you wish there was a Polvo’s in your city, too. Tip: Ask to sit at an outside patio table. 2004 S. 1^st St., Austin 78704 (512) 441-5446

Pictured: Feathers Vintage

By Courtney Peterson

On a recent trip to Milan, I found myself exploring the city of fashion in a whole new light. After having lived in Milan last year, I returned to visit some of my old favorites: my beloved ‘wine and pasta’ restaurant, the best gelato in town, Milanese women’s ‘secret’ shoe boutique, and my favorite jewelry store. I also got to preview Il Giardino di Via Solferino, a new restaurant in Brera that has created quite the buzz among locals. Being that it is Milan Fashion Week, the timing couldn't be more appropriate to create a Milan city guide with some new and old favorites.

La Cantina della Vetra: Next to the Colonne di San Lorenzo in the heart of Porta Ticinese, locals enjoy traditional Italian cuisine and wine from an exceptional and extensive wine cellar. (After all, cantina is the Italian word for wine cellar.) With a romantic and antique ambience, it’s about as warm and Italian as you can get. I enjoyed ‘risotto alla Francia cotto’ (champagne risotto). It’s something that I can assure you is not to be missed. The restaurant is always packed, so be sure to make a reservation.

Via Pio IV, Piazza Vetra

+39 02 89403843

Chocolat- Combine style and gelato in the city of fashion, and the result is Chocolat. Practically a local phenomenon, you’ll find a line that wraps around the street corner surrounding this sophisticated gellateria. Flavors not to miss: rum chocolate, orange chocolate, ‘In Governo’ chocolate (mixed with amarena cherries), and Gianduia (hazelnut and almonds). You’ll wish you never even knew Ben & Jerry’s existed…

Via Boccaccio 9 (2 blocks away from one of the city’s main train stations, Cadorna)

Maura Leone- Whether it’s on the runways or in the grocery store, Italian women wouldn’t be caught dead sporting sneakers or flip-flops a la Americana status. (Sorry to those who love their Havaianas and Rainbows.) Maura Leone is a young and hip shoe designer, whose colorful flats and hipster leather boots have become staples among the young and stylish Milanese. Extremely small, exclusive, and always crowded, be sure to bring cash, as they don’t accept credit cards.

Corso Porta Ticinese 103

Maschio- Located just two passes behind Via Montenapoleone, Maschio’s creations embody the inventive jewelry traditions and craftsmanship of the Italians. Using a variety of exquisite semi-precious stones, Maschio’s jewelry ranges from dainty cocktails rings in rose gold to personalized charm bracelets and glamorous chandelier earrings in sapphire and onyx. Maschio combines chic sophistication with a contemporary edge and the outcome is truly magnificent.

Via San Pietro all’Orto 17

Il Giardino di Via Solferino

In the heart of the fashion district, Il Giardino di Via Solferino opened last week after a long anticipated wait. Combing traditional Southern cuisine in a stylish and fashion forward atmosphere, Il Giardino di Via Solferino is perfect for a gastronomic aperitivo, a romantic dinner or a late drink before a night out clubbing in Moscova or Corso Como, in the heart of Milan’s night life. Il Giardino di Via Solferino is also opened for brunch on Sundays with a beautiful outdoor garden.

Via Solferino, 48

+ 39 02 655 11 80

Photos:

Il Giardino di Via Solferino

San Dario Chandelier Earrings, Maschio

San Dario Ring

Chocolate Gelato for gellateria, Chocolat

Cantina della Vetra

Last November, Rolf Snoeren and Viktor Horsting, the Dutch design duo behind Viktor & Rolf announced that Samsonite had tapped them to create a Black Label luggage collection for the brand. Following in the footsteps of Alexander McQueen’s collaboration with the iconic company on travel gear, Viktor & Rolf lent a personal touch to suitcases and travel totes for both men and women and they have just launched at Colette in Paris. The tote, decorated in a pattern of airplanes and a glossy red bow, is kitschy and playful and could easily work on the arm of a teenager as much as it could a jet-setting woman who is always on the go. A blue suitcase has a sort of old-school look with a strap that fastens across the center and is definitely more suitable for the gents. Finally, luggage that is stylish and easy to spot at the baggage claim.

Dallas' Victory Park, anchored by the American Airlines Center and the W Hotel, might seem like just another destination designed by big-box developers, devoted to sports-lovers and out-of-towners, but upon closer inspection, its tenants include not only include outposts of national chains (the aforementioned W, and Craft) but also a number of small businesses that keep the most discerning Dallasites coming back and clamoring for more.

Dallas is a town where Tex-Mex could be considered a food group; locals are know to show near religious devotion to their favorite haunts. One solid option is Luna de Noche, which has several locations in the city, including one at Victory Park. Start your afternoon off with a bit of sustenance and have a bite for lunch; go ahead and order a margarita–they've got some of the city's best–while you enjoy their killer salsa. For the main event, a half order of their Chicken Fajita Quesadillas, or a bowl of the Xochitl Soup, will probably be more than enough to keep you going.

Then, it's off to the races. Down the street, a trifecta of shops awaits: a very fashion-forward boutique for you, and one for both the home and hommes. First, stop into Haven, an interiors emporium owned by Jon Tutolo and John Bassignani. Before you walk in, check out the adorable sign on the door to see if the adorable store pup, a cocker spaniel named Homer, is “in.” While you're there, be sure to check out their collection of Swan's Island blankets, fantastic array of art books, and cool collection of candles. Take note of the art, too–they pull great pieces from local artists, and all of it's for sale, too.

Next door, V.O.D., a women's fashion boutique with one of the coolest vibes in town, helmed by the lovely trio of Liz Thompson, Jackie Bolin, and Elizabeth O'Mahoney, has an all-star line up from the likes of Alexander Wang, Isabel Marant, Vanessa Bruno, Tom Binns, and Maria Cornejo. Be sure to also browse the racks of vintage designer pieces from Archive Vintage, selected by Resurrection alum Kerry Bonnell.

And next door to them, Duncan Quinn, a bespoke tailor best described as Savile Row by way of Spring Street, offers boldly colored ties, striped shirts, and yes, better than made-to-measure suits. A little something from their collection of men's accessories, including pocket squares, cuff links, and umbrellas would make a perfect gift for the guy back at home.

If you've still got dollars to spend and time to keep scouting, keep walking down the block to Henry Beguelin. Filled with the leather house's signature quirky goods including super-cute embroidered card cases and super-cool footwear, there's a something for everyone.

After all that retail therapy, should you feel the need for a hint of culture, just a hop, skip, and a jump over Woodall Rogers Freeway is the Renzo Piano-designed Nasher Sculpture Center. Housing the legendary collection of Raymond and Patsy Nasher, and open since 2003, it's the ultimate urban oasis. Once you're there, grab a seat at the outdoor cafe in the sculpture garden and have cup of coffee while you take in large-scale works by artists including Richard Serra and James Turrell.

Luna de Noche, 2300 Victory Park Lane, (214)420-3050

Haven, 2416 Victory Park Lane, (214)954-1515

VOD, 2418 Victory Park Lane, (214)754-0644

Duncan Quinn, 2420 Victory Park Lane, (214)953-1953

Henry Beguelin, 2426 Victory Park Lane, (214)303-0120

Nasher Sculpture Center, 2001 Flora Street, (214)242-5100

Photo, Interior of V.O.D., by Allison D. Smith.