The Preppy Planet

PRINCESS BLOG AT OTHER SITE

2009-04-15T07:25:00.000-07:00

Hello-Hello, and smiles to everyone! Thank you for stopping by for a visit!

We apologize for the inconvenience, but The Preppy Princess blog remains at http://thePreppyPrincess.wordpress.com

Because of problems with Blogger, sometimes the only way I can leave a comment on your wonderful blogs causes this old link to show up. (It is either that, or leave no comment, or do it as anonymous, and none of those seem right.)

I am sorry for the inconvenience, but we haven't been able to resolve the issues with Blogger.

:-(

THE PREPPY PRINCESS HAS MOVED

2008-04-18T11:20:00.000-07:00

Hello-hello! Lest anyone think TP has gone to the great Brooks Brothers in the sky, she has not. BUT THE PRINCESS HAS MOVED. She changed her place of residence and is now residing here. She simply needed a home where the dress code was a little more lenient, allowing for a little Lilly and Orvis (gasp) mixed in the Ralph Lauren Polo and Brooks Brothers. Please come visit; we'd love to see you!

"Official Preppy Band" or "Look, Muffy, a band for us"

2008-04-06T17:05:00.000-07:00

Anyone here enjoy the music of Vampire Weekend, or at least like them enough to defend them to the end? We've not yet had the pleasure of seeing them in person, but through the magic of the internet we were able to listen a little today and were somewhat nonplussed. Our only link to the band comes via a columnist at the Sun-Times (Chicago), who suggests they are ideally suited to be the "Official Preppy Band." This via a blistering story, or perhaps a review, in the paper Friday entitled: "Look, Muffy, a band for us" with a subhead (2nd headline) "Preppy pretension sucks musical blood out of VAMPIRE WEEKEND." Okay then. Did I hear "Bitter, party of one?" from the maître d' blogland? If you are fans, now's the time to rise to their defense...in all their button-down glory!

Victoria Plimsolls

2008-03-19T17:41:00.001-07:00

Just testing, but also *loving* the sneakers! (via ThisNext.com)

A Breath of Fresh Air

2008-03-16T06:37:00.000-07:00

The best antidote when encountering another dark & dreary we-thought-spring-was-here morning is often a peek at something brighter. This morning we meandered amongst some of the absolutely darling children's springtime outfits and accessories, here is a tiny sampling for your discriminating eye. On the far left is an incredibly sweet Lilly Pulitzer, embroidered seersucker in bright and bouncy springtime hues from the dolls at In the Pink. We do the more formal 'dress up clothes' next with the two on the right perfectly suited for an Easter brunch at the Club or at Grandmother's cottage at the Hamptons. This exquisite, elegant beauty by the masters at Tartine et Chocolat is one ensemble we spotted whilst at Saks. (For a look at all of this brand's goodies at Saks, here you go!) And you have probably already guessed the designer and purveyor of the always-appropriate seersucker suit at the left; of course it is Brooks Brothers. And then last (The Princess is quite behind in her Sunday obligations and must absolutely toddle on to her next engagement!) but most definitely not least, some delightful items from The Children's Place, an establishment we must admit we are not familiar with, separated by a classic Florence Eiseman that is too wonderful to pass up.

Those Abercrombie Abs...Part Two

2008-03-15T18:03:00.000-07:00

Robert Peary did not have a giant logo on the front of his parka when traveling to the North Pole. Nor did Amelia Earhart paint a massive moose silhouette on her aircraft in exchange for cash. And while some may say that Honey Fitz was "new money" (yes, we know, how dreadful to even discuss it) you did not see JFK with Abercrombie logos on his outdoor gear. Whyever not? Because that was back in the olden days when the once-great establishment catered to a much different clientele, offering vastly different merchandise. Oh, and using extraordinarily refined marketing techniques light years removed from the current crass and crude exploits practiced today by the very popular (in some quarters) retailer. And yesterday. And the day before, as we are all too sadly aware. This would be back in the dark ages of course, when their name was actually Abercrombie and Fitch Country Clothiers.
While nattering on (and on) about some of the latest PR disasters at Abercrombie and Fitch yesterday, The Princess *did* mention something about sharing a bit of the brand's history. Let's just say this truly was a remarkable store, with incredible merchandise displays for even more incredible undertakings and adventures. The name was Plans for many of the family's annual vacations never really got underway until one consulted Abercrombie's; it was that simple. On safari in Africa? No problem, they had what you needed. New Year's Eve on the QEII? They always kept Daddy's measurements on hand in case it was time to order up a new dinner jacket. Looking for some snappy flasks to have engraved for your groomsmen? A&F supplied just what you needed. It really was the most astonishing merchandise mix you can imagine, although it did cater far more to a gentleman than a lady. Unless one needed a new hacking jacket or pith helmet, ladies fared better at Best or Bloomingdale’s or Bonwits. When we were children we simply adored the giant stuffed bears and tigers and other animals they had in the stores. Then things went downhill, in a hurry it seems, and suddenly this most magical of shopping establishments was gone. Doors closed and windows covered. The Princess remembers how very sad it was arriving at the front door, encountering just such a depressing display - CLOSED. Then it seemed some sporting goods retailer was going to be their saving grace (okay, ours if truth be told) but that didn't turn out so very well either. And then the Limited folks made their appearance, proving that some things are worse than being bankrupt! Simultaneously the once-simple label affixed to the lower side seam was fed retail steroids and it just grew and grew and grew into the monstrosity seen today. (Also shown below as it was above, merely an effort to minimize trauma for those unfamiliar with the brand – this way you needn’t trouble yourselves looking it up online.)
There it is. Yawn. Tedious, I know. And of course we still use the turtleneck, it’s perfectly serviceable.

Those Abercrombie Abs...Part One

2008-03-14T16:13:00.000-07:00

Truly tasteless? Or "well, at least their hearts are in the right place" sort of situation? Of course, who else could we be discussing other then the oh-so-naughty Abercrombie & Fitch? And how amazing (not!) that the troublesome topic involves the company's sex sells credo. And of course the "M" word. Yawn. (I don't know...does the apparel at the left simply shriek "preppy" to You? The Princess doesn't exactly see those shorts at the C.C.) At any rate, it appears looking a gift horse squarely in the mouth isn't the least bit troubling to a group of Buckeyes. Not even when said gift's value runs just a bit more than the cost of a nice wedding reception, well into the low seven figures. The backstory: A&F is owned by Limited Brands, based in Columbus, Ohio. You know, the folks who own Victoria's Secret, and the generally fabulous Henri Bendel. The company donated $10 million so its name would go on the new ER at the Children's Hospital in Columbus. (Er, excuse us, that would be Nationwide Children's Hospital, so named in gratitude for the $50 million donation from you guessed it - Nationwide Insurance!) But not so fast. Seems a group of physicians and advocacy groups are saying "Thanks, but no thanks." The big bucks were donated (and accepted we might add) back in 2006, but the topic is now hot because groundbreaking is taking place this year. Or at least it is supposed to. It seems some are opposed to taking donations from a company whose primary marketing efforts seem to center on images of teens oozing sex in every ad. Of course, while not exactly chicken feed, the 'donation' is nowhere near the $50 million the company paid a few years back to settle a discrimination suit.
For those not familiar with the brand, it wasn't always this way. Do stop by tomorrow for a look back at what truly was a lifestyle brand. And there weren't any short-shorts for sale either.
On a far less serious note, it appears spring may be here at last, and isn't that just too glorious?! A change of seasons is much more than a change of wardrobe, always a splendid reminder to revel in the simple things and maintain a sense of humor. The seemingly endless winter was on the verge of turning otherwise delightful acquaintances into crankensteins, reminding The Princess of a wonderful remark by Ann Landers: "Class has a sense of humor. Class never tries to build itself up by tearing others down." Do enjoy a happy-happy and wonderful-wonderful weekend! We leave you with this charming picture, one of many darling, creative projects at Kaboose for your children to enjoy!

How Could I Forget?!

2008-03-12T12:40:00.000-07:00

We clearly have more evidence that indulging in too many bloodies before chapel takes its toll - good gracious! (Before anyone elects to commence fretting about the dreadful example The Princess is setting, please remain calm. We are referring to the required daily attendance at Chapel whilst at school; surely some of you experienced this shall we say, spiritual phenomenon?) I guess the memory is the first thing to go. Sigh.
At any rate, the evidence of forgetfulness is best explained by the image to your left: the absolutely to-die-for and must-have gift item of the month! We completely forgot to mention this in our last little post. Available at our sister site, PreppyPrincess.com, these are simply too much fun! The aprons are accompanied by the appropriate accessory: matching gloves! Do pop by and take a peek - they will bring a smile to your face, we promise.

Good News and ...?

2008-03-12T12:37:00.000-07:00

For those in the Midwest who are unable to make it through a change of season without a concurrent visit to Freeport (Maine) or a trip through the LL Bean catalog, for spring wardrobe updating, we bring you good news! Word from the company they are opening a store at the Arboretum, in Chicago's northern burbs. Technically a community named South Barrington for those who simply must know every little detail. Actually, it's the Princess’s understanding that the new shopping area may give the folks in Schaumburg a run for their money. For those not entirely in the know (and why would you be, after all...?) Schaumburg is home to that monstrously large Woodfield Mall, a place with no redeeming qualities with the possible exception of Nordstrom. And for those who may not yet been to the "new" store (aka 'The Mother Ship' in some quarters) in Freeport, prepare yourself for a treat. It's simply divine and gives Cabela's a run for their money in some respects. Of course, the Tysons Corner store isn't bad, and if you need to grab something on your way to the Cape, there's nothing easier off-season than stopping in Wareham at the outlet. A word of warning however: in-season the turistas will absolutely make your head explode at the Wareham store. Enter at your own risk. The good news is that for all of you in the greater Chicago area, there is now hope. Not only is there hope, LL Bean is spreading the joy with word they plan to eventually open four stores in the area.

The Princess isn't sure if the other news is categorized as bad necessarily; we're talking about word from Eddie Bauer corporate HQ that they plan on returning to their “roots in outdoor apparel.” Evidently there a belief the stores carry much too much women’s' apparel, etc. Sadly, their trip down the “Who are we and to whom are we marketing our products?” sent The Princess packing many moons ago. Candidly dolls, it wasn’t just the merchandise mix, as wretched as that became, it was also the quality, or lack thereof. Is everyone with me here? Do tell. On this topic we can only “stand by to stand by and watch for progress on all fronts.

Goodbye Dear Bill

2008-02-27T08:47:00.000-08:00

Rarely will readers be asked to cope with any inappropriate emotional displays. As we trust you all know, Ladies (yes, with a Capital L, and of course we include Gentlemen in this group) one doesn't do any emotional displays. Not ever. Unless one discovers Saks no longer has the coordinating handbag and pumps needed for the Met dinner, or the caterer didn't make enough pate, or you have been blessed by the birth of a child, grandchild, etc. Rare outbursts caused by trauma or excitement on par with the events outlined above are understood and generally excused.
However, The Princess does feel we must publicly note the passing of dear Bill Buckley, truly a Gentleman with a capital G. If you were fortunate enough to have Bill seated at your table for dinner, you were guaranteed an evening ablaze with intense, intelligent and always witty conversation that sparked and sparkled.
For those not familiar with Bill or his background, he went to Yale, was of course Skull & Bones, and actually spent some time employed by, of all places, the CIA. He also ran unsuccessfully for Mayor of New York City. Many of us think this was a very good thing, for it allowed him more time to perfect the myriad skills with which he was born. And that he did, always with impeccable manners, great good taste and brilliance. To say he will be missed is beyond an understatement; he is irreplaceable.

The Princess is confused...but not amused.

2008-02-25T12:11:00.000-08:00

The Princess admits she is now baffled beyond measure, utterly amazed at the explosion of what she sadly refers to as the logos-from-hell. Look at this tragic example from Ralph Lauren and then glance at his more classic design. OMG! What is up with this? Do help us understand.

It's the sort of look we expect from other designers, certainly not Mr. Lauren, of all people. When the little pony started to grow last year many in the fashion press wrote that it was really a tongue in cheek commentary from Mr. Lauren, sort of a display of "isn't this logo stuff silly" attitude. TP wondered at the time if this were really the case; with the appearance of this year's logo-on-steroids look she believes the fashion commentators were sadly mistaken. Who would put this on their child, let alone themselves? Certainly not anyone that could be referred to as "preppy," never in a million years! Especially when he's created such elegant and fun looks this spring?The Princess is determined to remain optimistic, chalking this little transgression up to something unknown, perhaps a momentary desire to appeal to a more, shall we say, 'egalitarian' crowd? Mommy has always been taken aback, quite appalled really, by the increasingly excessive size of corporate logos and motifs on products. For example, generations of family members have always just shaken their heads when traveling and seeing a porter laden down with Louis Vuitton luggage. It's just not done where The Princess comes from, and quite frankly when it is, the general assumption is that 'new money' is involved somewhere in the equation. Nuff said?

As a sidenote, it may come as a surprise to some readers to hear that not everyone is all ga-ga over more upscale retailers, such as the one just discussed. Those who have had the pleasure of shopping on Fillmore Street (San Francisco) in Pacific Heights are familiar with its delightful selection of shops like Jonathan Adler and Simon Pearce. The good folks at Ralph Lauren have had a lease on Fillmore, but the Fillmore Street Merchants Association recently said "no" to the horsey set. Apparently they do not want any new 'chain stores' in the area. Ouch!

Oh one more thing before The Princess says 'ta-ta' for the afternoon: if you have any need whatsoever for a little cashmere sweater, and who doesn't, get yourself over to Garnet Hill and take a peek at some of their yummies! Now there's a group who clearly understands good taste - when is the last time you saw a "G H" on anything in their merchandise mix?! Now, as always, if any of our readers can help The Princess understand today's troubling issue, do drop us a line or leave a comment.

The Princess Cedes Defeat

2008-02-22T16:46:00.000-08:00

I give up. Ego redono... or thereabouts. (Well, how long did you remember your Latin once you moved on to college?? Hhmmm?) What made The Princess cave in and admit defeat? The flu PrepHeads. Influenza. A most tasteless topic; an even more unpleasant experience. And no, we did not get a flu shot. Please.

However, there was an upside, as always. Once we were able to focus on something other than the closest tissue box we indulged ourselves perusing a few of this spring's styles; they did not disappoint. In fact, it may be the cheery colors and timeless designs that brought us back to life. After all, who can resist a classic Chuck Taylor in madras?

These are of course, more formally referred to as the Converse Chuck Taylor® All Star™ Patchwork sneakers. We want them. And since we know you will too, here's the link for Zappos. The Princess promises to share more of the new season's treasures this weekend.

Whoops! Almost Forgotten!

2008-02-15T15:05:00.000-08:00

Well, if this isn't demonstrative that brain cells may be destroyed by too many hours on the beach, I don't know what is! At any rate, we almost forgot to list one of our very favorite new items from our sister site, PreppyPrincess.com, here's one of the totes from our spring line - this one in the Hamptons pattern, available in an eggshell white or navy!

Bargains of a Preppy Kind

2008-02-15T12:35:00.000-08:00

Hello, and yes, the Princess fully comprehends that discussions involving the M word are vulgar. However, there are times when having such conversations supercedes the boundaries of good taste, and now is just such a time. As any good prep knows, one of life's great lessons is understanding the value of a dollar. And in these times, understanding the enhanced value of a dollar can help fill out that preppy closet just a tad. In other words: S - A - L - E !!!

Here's just a sampling of what TP found online this dull and dreary morning:

Some of the goodies from Lacoste's Cashmere Chic line are now at prices a younger generation might call a "Screaming Deal, " almost half off their original retail. Stop by and check out these ever-so-comfy pieces from the Silver Collection, like the mini and cashmere hoodie here. And by all means, check out their newest arrivals while you're there!

And while the Princess foolishly waited too long to snag a pair of Pendleton's fabulous madras sneakers, don't you make the same mistake! Here's a peek:

Now if you want to feel good about making your tootsies look great, try the pink pair on the left. These are Pendleton's Komen rose plaid deck shoes, created to benefit the Susan G. Komen for the Cure and they're on sale for only $34.99. The equally fab plaid on the right, their Surfer Girl style is also on sale for just $34.99, a price you simply can't beat.

And now just one final penny-pinching thought: for those fortunate enough to wear a Size 6 in Lilly Pulitzer, we suggest the Bailey Skinny Capri Print from our good friends at Palm Classic Apparel. Especially if you winter in either of the Palms (yes, we know some of you may consider Palm Springs a bit on the nouveau side of things, but The Princess says let's be wildly liberal and include both, hhhmm?!) these are ideal for running to the market or racing to pick up the spouse.

And on that happy note ladies and laddies, we must scoot - we're late for a meeting with this year's Provisionals.

Valentine's Day Prepalicious Tidbit

2008-02-14T14:00:00.000-08:00

A splendid Valentine greeting to all. Whilst we never thought we would be offering any tidbits on this alleged 'Holiday,' receipt of an ever-so-dear little e-card rapidly changed our perspective. We were surprised to see a rather cute card, and even more taken aback to hear an unusual version of the classic "Unchained Melody" playing woefully in the background as we viewed the card. Now it's time to play "Trust the Princess" when she tells you this presents an opportunity to torment any and all enemies within glaring distance of your cubicle. Meander on over to visit the folks at FreeWebCards.com to see (well, hear) what we mean. Send yourself a card with this song selected, and upon arrival in your in-bin, crank that baby up! If anyone dares to question your musical taste, tell them that you merely selected this tune in honor of spring training almost getting underway. Sort of.

Besides anyplace offering greeting cards with names like "Redneck Halloween" and "Probably Cause" is worth a stop, no?

Prepalicious Alberta Ferretti

2008-02-10T15:25:00.000-08:00

The Princess continues to be curious regarding the divine creations from fashion designer Alberta Ferretti, and their lack of critical acclaim in the world of the neon runway. (This, of course, disregards the Philosophy line Ms. Ferretti is best known for.) Granted, no one is ever going to accuse us of being a slave to fashion, but honestly dolls, don't you think she deserves just a tad more credit than she's receiving? Although some might say (and the Princess can only concur) that the best attention Ms. Ferretti enjoys is in the form of the orders that continue to be placed by buyers from Bergdorfs, Neimans, and other fine establishments for her crisp, clean and sexy apparel. Now before you climb all over the Princess, understand that we don't consider the entire collection to comprise a season's ensemble in that style oft referred to as 'preppy'...nay-nay. Chill thyselves. We're merely asking that some of her designs be considered for inclusion in our little fashion circle.