New Historic and Stylish Hotel in New Orleans

 The French Quarter in New Orleans hasn’t seen a new hotel in decades. No surprise, considering the city wants to keep this district historically significant. Now there’s a new player on the block that manages to meld historical significance with contemporary stylishness. This is my latest for Forbes Life on ONE11 Hotel. 

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Stylish, Warm Wool Wear

Why write about a wool infinity scarf in May? Because in the Northeast, it still feels a bit like winter, with nighttime temperatures in New York City dropping into the 40s F. Not so perfect for wearing sandals, but perfect for wearing my new Krimson Klover infinity scarf. I received it a month ago and, thanks to the unseasonably cool weather, I’ve worn it almost every day. (Here are a couple of links -- here and here -- for more infinity scarves.) The fun-feminine scarf gives even the most casual clothing a sophisticated air along with providing warmth without the bulk one might expect. The merino wool/mohair fabric is soft and the color palette is subdued with just a hint of vibrancy, perfect for when I make sales calls during the week (for my clothing and accessories line) or during networking events. In fact, I’ve had business women stop me on the street in Greenwich, Connecticut to inquire where I bought this fashionable item. Not only do I love the high quality yarns they rely on in their scarves, dresses, sweaters and skirts, but it’s a women-owned and operated company based in Boulder, Colorado. (Yeah for Made in America.)

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Innovative Micro Travel Bag for Women + Men

 

Tired of toting around a heavy bag that gives you neck and back pain? 


A bag you have to rifle through to dig out just about anything?

A bag that sets you up as a target when you travel?

Or, are you someone who, instead, crams your vitals -- credit cards, money -- into a fat wallet or cell phone case that you have to dig out of your pocket (or bag) where more rifling ensues?

atta-Bag is for those women or men who travel the world or their neighborhood, going from home to work to night spot, who want to be hands free. It’s simple, stylish and low-profile.

This unique uni-sex bag can be worn seven different ways, including over the shoulder, slung low around the waist or looped through a belt. It's a far cry from the geeky fanny pack that can label you as a tourist.

My inspiration for designing this bag came a few years ago after being robbed of all my valuables from my tiny backpack. It was the middle of the day, in a capital city, in front of a popular museum. The perpetrators were very skillful, able to unzip and re-zip my backpack without me feeling a thing and, within 30 seconds, they walked (or ran) away with my passport, credit cards, cash, plane ticket and more.

atta-Bag sells for $65, and 10% of annual net profits will go toward supporting the efforts of She's The First, a non-profit that sponsors girls’ education in 11 low-income countries (including Nepal, Guatemala and Sierra Leone) with the goal of creating first-generation graduates and the next generation of global leaders. (After all, I’m a first-generation graduate of Barnard College, and a former educator.) I couldn't be happier to partner with this inspiring organization that has made it their mission to increase the number of female graduates around the world.

The first samples of atta-Bag have just arrived. For more information on how to buy this innovative travel bag, contact me here.

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