Tuesday, November 30, 2010

burn baby burn

the festival of lights flares wednesday evening so get your chanukiah (chanukah candelabra) ready for eight nights of escalating illumination.  whether you go contemporary and sleek with nambe's chic metal "illume menorah" (available at bloomingdales.com) or cute and crafty with a homemade creation, be sure your chanukiah is kosher.  just follow these steps and you'll be ready to strike your match: your chanukiah should have eight branches for the chanukah candles (and an optional ninth branch for the shamash which is a candle used to kindle the other candles), the main eight branches of your chanukiah should all be the same height and in a straight line, there should be enough distance between the candles so each individual flame is visible, and if you have a shamash, it should stand out so it's clearly not one of the main eight candles.  ready to glow? place the candles in their candelabra from right to left, and light the candles from left to right, one candle the first night, two the second night, three the third night, etc., for eight nights.  don't forget the blessings and be sure to light by a window to publicize the miracle. happy chanukah!

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

silver palate

whether or not you were fed with a silver spoon you may have a taste for a silver treat.  that's right, even candy is going glam.  jordan almonds (those yummy sugar coated candies) are now available in kosher metallic flavors including silver and gold (available at ohnuts.com).  looking for sweets to sprinkle around your chanukah party? these shiny almonds will dazzle your decor and your guests.  don't forget to say the blessing before you take your first sparkling bite.  

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

flower shower

looks like fall showers are bringing november flowers. thanks to the photographic artistry of harold feinstein, a rainy day can be styled in a beautiful way.  an image of one of his vibrant oversized flower photos is printed onto each of his umbrellas (available in two sizes at www.haroldfeinsteinstore.com). with a choice of daisy, gerbera, sunflower, or tulip, every drop of rain will be shielded by your blossoming cane.  your new accessory may leave you secretly waiting for a day for the rain to stay. rain, rain, don't go away!

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

sleep your heart out

tired of getting your zzzz's on on your boring bedding? it's time to find your favorite print and give your dreams a wake me up. lucky for you brits, h&m uk is offering an online home section flaunting enticing items at a peekable price. i recommend the heart print duvet cover set in organic cotton. available in both white and purple with black hearts, this print will bring out your feminine flair.  not a hearty londoner? no problem. pb teen and ikea are offering bold colored prints in a variety of shapes and textures. when styling your bed don't forget to add some cozy faux fur throw pillows (available at pier 1) for the finishing touch. your dreams will thank you! (image via h&m)