Flash-Forward 20 years: Instead of embracing the rain, We, as adults run and shutter from every drop. I am constantly finding myself ill-equip for the rain.  My gap poncho from high school is always conveniently stashed away in my trunk. Umbrellas? Sure !    I ‘ve got two of em!  One on my porch so I can grab it on the way to my car (never-do), the other is an Ark & Co one (Great new designer who we brought on) that I got free at the MAGIC show.  Where’s that one? In my car? Nope….

In place of a wine bottle in my wine rack….

So as you can see my rain preparedness… not so good.  On days like this I also have trouble figuring out what to wear. I want to look cute, but it’s so hard when it really limits your shoe selection. 

My solution:  THE RAIN-BOOT!

I can dress in relation to my new water shoe and tuck my jeans in them so I avoid that awful wet ankle syndrome.  So I’ve done my research and Target definitely has the cutest selection.  I don’t want to spend more than $25.00 on something I will only wear once and while.

Here are my top choices( I also included an outfit sample with each boot)

So go ahead and cast your vote for which boot I should buy! I need your opinions!  Just comment on this post and let me know.     Soon, I will be back in action stomping in those puddles faster than you can say “Hair-Sprayed Bangs from 1987″

bird by marybevello featuring Charlotte Russe scarves

polka dot by marybevello on Polyvore.com

Orla Kiely Designs

About 3 years ago I found this amazing designer, Orla Kiely at Anthropologie.  I was so drawn to her vintage and simplistic prints.  I bought “the big zip wallet” for a $88.oo which usually is about 3 times my usual wallet budget.

  But let me  personally vouch for this London based designer!  This is by far the best, most durable, easy to clean, fits everything and cutest wallet I have EVER owned.  I was able to have it for a year and I could of had it longer if I kept it a little cleaner (my bad).  I bought another one this year (picture above).  I know many of her customers must be repeats!

     I get so many compliments on it and now her intriguing patterns have become increasingly popular!  Check out some of her stuff I posted below. Orla initailly started out with handbags and wallets and now has expanded to clothing and even a home line at target! (WATCH FUN VIDEO) This product is worth every penny.

    The quality is outstanding!  I don’t think I will ever get enough of her vision for an adorable and long lasting line of fashion items that embody a retro 60’s and 70’s conservative vibe with a modern vintage twist!

 Here’s an exerpt from her website : www.orlakiely.com:

“The world of Orla Kiely is one where color, pattern, graphic control, texture and rhythm continually work and rework together. Orla has a unique, immediately recognisable design language, developed through graphic patterns that celebrate her optimistic spirit. As down-to-earth as her designs are popular, the key to what drives Orla is her fixation on the evolution of a signature style, devotion to quality and practicality.”

Orla Kiely Handbag

Big Zip Wallet "dandilion"

Target Housewares and Apron

Orla Kiely Handbag

Orla Kiely Pear Beach bag

Orla Kiely Bathing suit

   Finally!  I think the reason I love this “Tulu” clutch from bevello is because the purple floral print on the strap  is so reminiscent of the Orla Kiely prints.  Bevello, online clothing boutique specializes in researching emerging independent designers such as “Tulu” that bring cuteness and joy into everyones closet!

"Tulu" clutch from bevello $40.00