StyleSpy with Katrina Szish

...well, not exactly.   While Jamaicans everywhere are celebrating their country's track and field triumphs at the Bird's Nest in Beijing, I am celebrating Sophie Eyssautier, a French native who left behind a successful design career in Paris to move to Jamaica.  And, if I had a gold medal to bestow upon the best Jamaican-based design talent, it would go to Eyssautier.

At the urging of friends, Eyssautier opened Sophie's Callaloo Butik in Negril in 2002.  The label, called Callaloo (named after Eyssautier's favorite green, leafy Jamaican vegetable),

includes clothing and accessories for women and children (sundress above) as well as housewares, and is sold in a handful of Jamaican boutiques (although Noisette in Brooklyn occasionally carries a few pieces).

I got my first peek at Callaloo in the exquisitiely-curated boutique at Rockhouse Hotel (everyone from Bob Dylan to Nanette Lepore has checked in), and quickly learned of the label's success as items sold out on a daily basis.

As quoted in a local Jamaican magazine, Eyssautier says, "It is most important that my creations are made entirely in Jamaica.  I was tired of looking on labels only to find they were made in faraway countries."

 Each piece from the Callaloo collection is handcrafted, whether a beaded T shirt, printed bag, tank top with quirky embroidery (surprisingly Marni-esque), a madras infant onesie, or a flowing cotton dress perfect for Caribbean days and nights.

Best of all, indulging in a few pieces won't cramp your travel budget.  Bags cost about $30 or less, dresses max out at $60.  Prices go down from there.

Hungry for some Callaloo?
Check out www.callalloo-jam.com for more details.

No, of course I haven't abandoned you, dear Style Spy readers, but I am in the midst of an adventurous getaway in Negril, Jamaica. 

Am holed up in the glorious Rockhouse Hotel with my own thatched-roof hut atop ancient volcanic rock cliffs overlooking the Caribbean...

...with front row seats for brilliant sunsets.

The hotel, spa (one of the best I've visited -- ask for Joy OR Joyce) and incredible views have been decadent (shopping secrets coming later), while jumping off said cliffs, scuba diving and snorkeling with stone fish (the most venomous of all species), moray eels and barracudas has provided the requisite danger necessary for any exciting escape.

Check back for insider tips on the best local haunts, sailboat charters, local design talent and more.

Kisses, postcards, wish you were here..

XX
K

PS
just got an email alert from a PR company which jolted me back to reality...and made chuckle.  I was notified that a particular pregnant celeb chose to wear A Pea In the Pod maternity wear to a recent Scientology Gala. 

You gotta love New York City.

Where else could you find a Ford-model-slash-yogi offering free weekly yoga classes (FYI: the best way to score a bikini bod like Jennifer Aniston)?!  Even better, you never know with whom you'll be downward dogging.  Everyone from software CEOs to fashion models to reality TV stars have stopped by for a collectively chic "om."

Classes are usually on Thursday nights in Central Park, but the lovely Ms. Stiles likes to keep things fresh, so be sure to check out her Facebook group page for exact times, dates and locations.

I recommend Tara Stiles' instruction not just because she knows her craft, but also because she's not a freaky yoga person.  I asked her to explain her philosophy, and here's what she told me:

"Yoga is for everybody, not just "yoga people" or people who dress like them.  Certain yoga traditions can feel as exclusive as those high-school clicks.  You don't have to become a Hindu or quit your job and move to an Ashram.  I won't read out of my journal or instruct you to become one with the earth.  You will sweat and improve your strength, flexibility, balance and feel great.  I don't preach spirituality. It's not necessary. It's a big area of confusion that you have to have certain spiritual beliefs to practice yoga. When you start yoga, you get stronger, health improves, and things get more obvious. Nothing mystical, it just happens."

And did I mention the classes are FREE?  Beat the recession, stay in shape and rub toned shoulders with Manhattan's elite beneath a canopy of green trees.  Run don't walk!

psst...got a recession-proof activity to recommend??  please share!

I still love the Water Taxi staycation...

Nothing wakes you up in the morning like a shot of superstar. 

Natasha Bedingfield gave me the boost I needed this morning when I ran into her in the green room at the "Today Show."  She was performing, and I was talking summer style.

I've met Natasha before and am happy to report that she remains one of the nicest celebs out there (I also loved her performance on the recent season of "The Bachelorette"...how cute is it that she serenaded the happy couple with "Soulmate" as they were falling in love!  Awwww). 

Natasha looked hot in a black tank top, sky-high heels and skinny jeans...she even did a costume change before her second performance, and opted for a floaty white tank.  Simple chic at its best.

Following my wake-up call, I showed "Today Show" viewers how to pack for a beach weekend getaway -- it's all about streamlining without sacrificing style. 

Watch my segment here!

While most of my fellow fashionistas bolt for the beach every Friday, I prefer to stick it out in the city.  But occasionally, well, you know the song:  "Hot town, summer in the city, back of my neck..."

To avoid such unsavory effects, I suggest the following stay-cation excursion:

1.  Start your beachy afternoon at the South Street Seaport (SPY TIP: Plan for lots of sand and sun, but no swimming).

2.  Upon arrival, buy a ticket for the New York Water Taxi, ultimate destination: Water Taxi Beach at Hunter's Point (SPY TIP:  Puchase a hop on/hop off day ticket for $20, and you'll end up shelling out less money than you would for a single roundtrip ticket to most Water Taxi stops; or, if you'd rather shop and eat Swedish meatballs, take the FREE Water Taxi to the new Ikea in Red Hook).

3.  While waiting for the taxi, grab a dockside cocktail -- and a snack, if you want something other than burgers and dogs, which is your only food option once you get to The Beach -- at the Pacific Grill (SPY TIP: According to a recent post on Eater.com, a new version of Water Taxi Beach is in the works in Red Hook, complete with a beer garden and the Cheyenne diner).

4.  Score a seat on the roof of the Water Taxi.  (IMPORTANT:  They are very strict about occupancy, so in order to avoid getting stuck in the stuffy, enclosed cabin downstairs, be sure you're one of the first fifteen people in line.  I was too busy posing for the above picture, so I had to sit inside for most of the trip.)

However, I did get my moment in the sun...

...and I milked it (Victoria Beckham, eat your heart out!  Hey Leo -- who's King of the World, now?!).

5.  Once you get to Water Taxi Beach, prepare to show ID and have your bag inspected by a surly security guard.  Then, kick off your shoes and secure towel space or a cafe table as close to the water as possible.   

6.  Stop by the (CASH ONLY!) Tiki-esque bar for sangria, Peroni or a glass of '06 Mouton Cadet.  The beverage selection is surprisingly upscale...

...compared to the (CASH ONLY!) food selection which includes hamburgers, soy burgers, hot dogs, hot dogitos (a tortilla stands in for the bun) and extra-extra-greasy fries.  The cheeseburgers weren't terrible, so if you're really starved (like I was), go for it. 

7.  Relax, play volleyball, dance, play cards, admire the panoramic view of Manhattan, worship the sun...or, do what I did: PEOPLE WATCH (and take pictures!)

Here are my snaps of the hottest gals on the beach:

8.  Extend your beach day with a dockside dinner back on "the big island." Take the last Water Taxi from Hunter's Point (at about 7pm, just in time for a mini sunset cruise) one stop to 34th Street, and walk to The Water Club (SPY TIP: Make a reservation).

Sit in the outside dining room right on the water (dressier, just off the main dining room) or upstairs on the deck (casual dress, casual menu).  Order a bottle of Rose, She-Crab soup and Maine lobster.  Sit back and raise a glass to all those less fortunate than you who are sitting in bumper-to-bumper traffic on their way back from the Hamptons.

Scents, like songs, can transport you to a distant time or place.

One of the best souvenirs to score from a favorite destination -- especially a beachy one -- is a fragrance that sparks your senses and takes you back to that cherished place with a single sniff.

Whenever I long for Rehoboth Beach (my childhood seaside paradise), I splash on a few drops of the rugged Chesapeake Bay Spyce men's cologne that I bought at Carlton's, the old-school resort clothier on Rehoboth Avenue.  (The same company, Coastal Fragrance, also offers a version called Seaport, which does wonders reminding me of home when I'm away from home).

Chesapeake Bay Spyce cologne, $30 at Sportys.com

Bond No. 9 bottles the essence of the Hamptons, Fire Island (my pick for sexiest scent!), Coney Island and Manhattan (dubbed Eau de New York), in their New York beaches collection (they recommend storing the bottle in the fridge for maximum cooling sensation).

Bond No. 9 beaches collection, $125 per 50ml bottle at BondNo9.com

Even if you're landlocked, pretend you're not with Restoration Hardware's "shore" cleaning collection.  I use the laundry softener and surface cleaner all year long, and it makes household chores less of a chore.

Shore cleaning collection, from $9 at Restoration Hardware

And leave it to Jonathan Adler to conjure a series of candles inspired by some of his most beloved getaways (and mine!  Mr. Husband and I have spent many a lazy afternoon sipping Domaines Ott at Sunset Beach on Shelter Island!)...

Jonathan Adler Sunset Beach candle, $38 at  Candledelirium.com

What's your favorite scent memory?  If you've found it bottled or in wax form, let me know!

I just got back from Miami Beach (work and play), and during my visit I stumbled upon an amazing boutique on Ocean Drive: TAJ by Sabrina.



Shop owner Sabrina Crippa not only stocks sweet, summery pieces by Tibi and Milly, but she is also entering the second year of designing her own label -- and her collection alone is worth a trip to the shop. 



Beautiful cotton and silk tunic tops, dresses and leather sandals embellished with the most dazzling beads, gems and stones reflect Sabrina's globally-inspired aesthetic. 



Sabrina (above, showing one of her designs) grew up outside Milan, and regularly visits Morocco, Africa and India, but Miami has been her home since 1999.

In a season in which global-inspired items should be at the top of your shopping list, Sabrina's collection will make you look and feel as if you've traveled the world and brought back one-of-a-kind treasures.  I'm just happy I got to bring back one such treasure (which was definitely not enough!) from Miami.



Shop for Taj by Sabrina at HeidiKlein.com OR call 305.761.6883 for more information.

Check out my complete Miami Beach wrap-up on CNN.com where you can also check out my weekly show "Inside InStyle"!

Spiced coladas served in ceramic coconuts with umbrellas.  CHECK

Retro bamboo furniture.  CHECK

Kitschy ship's wheel decor.  CHECK

Pool table.  CHECK

Cheesy Budweiser lamp above pool table.  CHECK

Tacky fish tank complete with neon scuba diver figurines.  CHECK

Jukebox stocked with so-bad-it's-good 70s tunes.  CHECK

I've always been a fan of both Ken Friedman (The Spotted Pig) and Taavo Somer (Freeman's Alley and creator of the original "My boyfriend is out of town" t shirt) who have joined forces to open the Rusty Knot -- but now I am officially in awe.  They have tapped into an aesthetic, a vibe, and an attitude that many hip New Yorkers have subconsciously wanted, but hadn't yet realized they wanted.

With the Rusty Knot (in the spot vacated by West, although the old awning remains), Ken and Taavo have articulated those latent desires:   Nostalgia, with kitsch.  Groovy tracks from Journey, Starbuck, Christopher Cross, Heart, and Cheap Trick.  A dive bar with a marlin on the wall flanked by a ship's wheel mirror and a diner-style menu board that lists pretzel dogs, roasted razor clams, meat pie, peel-and-eat shrimp, their (already) wildly popular bacon and chicken liver sandwich, as well as the times of high and low tide and sunrise and sunset.   

After gushing to Ken last night about how beyond right-on the place was, he laughed and said, "It's like your parents' basement in the 70s, isn't it?"  Well, maybe more like a friend's parents' basement a decade later, but you get the idea.  I see it as more of a surreal, time-warpy, transporting experience: Basically, if you were living in the original Jaws movie (not swimming, duh) and went to a local dive bar, this would be it.  I actually heard someone greet his friend with an affable "Ahoy!" when he came in the door. 

And, the crowd congregating last night (including Robin Wright) was not drinking green beer, nor did anyone appear to be congratulating themselves on being too cool for school.  Instead, everyone kind of hung out together like a group of new friends...we chatted about the cute fish in the tank, reiterated the virtues of Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, and marveled over the obscenely long straws that come with the scorpion bowls. 

Come to think of it, it was kind of like being in my (friend's) parents' basement...

Can't make it to The Rusty Knot?  Throw your own nautical-themed basement blowout!  Get inspired with these cheeky coasters:

$29.95 at Seaside Treasures

Or these porcelain coconut mugs (dead ringers for the ones at the Rusty Knot):


$8.50 each at Myriahs


And seal the deal with cocktail mermaids:

$8 for 100 at Myriahs

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TIME TO RELAX!

The central clock above the main dining room.  Love the retro look.

I chose the Two Bunch Palms resort and spa as my post-Oscar escape for several reasons.

The first is obvious -- the surroundings.  A verdant oasis in the middle of Desert Hot Springs, CA, Two Bunch Palms is both dotted with swaying palm trees and encircled by snow-topped mountains.  The vistas are gorgeous and relaxing...another bonus: a private jacuzzi just outside my bedroom door.  I also wanted a destination close to L.A. that felt like it was a million miles away:  the resort is about a two hour drive due East on the I-10, just down the road from one of my favorite towns -- mid-century modern furniture shopping heaven!! -- Palm Springs. 

Turtles sunned themselves daily on the edge of the lake.  I opted for sunscreen and shade.

Also high on my wish list:  a destination with some history.  Not only does Two Bunch boast Hollywood ties (Tim Robbins' famous mud bath scene from The Player was filmed here)...

Tim Robbins, The Player.
Thankfully, my mud bath experience was unplugged.

...but it also has a bit of a notorious past: Al Capone regularly sought respite at the resort.

Plus, I have recently been intrigued by the concept of reclusive starlets  (perhaps it was all that research I did on Marilyn Monroe for my appearance on Bill O'Reilly's recent "Icons" series?), so I decided this would be the ideal chance to channel one...in a good way, of course.

And, it just so happens that soon after arriving I crossed paths with a recently reclusive (and very handsome) actor who was also making his escape (no names mentioned, sorry -- I'm the Style Spy, not the Style Snitch).  I clearly chose the right spot.

I was also thrilled to see this sign just outside the main office:

Mission accomplished!

One of the most unique features of the resort is that it happens to be situated on top of one of the hottest natural mineral hot springs in the world, right here in the Coachella Valley desert.  According to the resort's website, "Native American Indian tribes have referred to it as sacred ground, for the natural elements that merge together here don't exist in this form anywhere else on earth."

The mineral-rich waters cascade into two pool areas -- one at 104 degrees and the larger at 99 degrees -- which they have converted into a relaxing, almost tropical enclave called The Grotto (below). 

Like the rest of the resort, The Grotto is a quiet zone, so whether you take a dip after breakfast (that was my daily routine) or under the stars at midnight (I was way asleep by then, although it would be a lovely experience, I'm sure), you're guaranteed sublime silence.

Right this way for a therapeutic soak in one of the famous mud baths...

That's me, soaking in a thick mixture of peat moss imported from Canadian bogs and mineral-rich clay from the resort property.  Once I got used to the squishy, gelatinous texture and the -- I'll go with "odd" here -- smell of the mud, the soak was surprisingly tranquil.

If a mud bath isn't your thing, choose from dozens of other spa treatments, most of which are offered in private, thatched-roof huts.  I highly recommend a 90-minute Shiatsu session -- definitely one of the best I've had.  And I've had a lot.

And don't go looking for a fitness center...this place is all about replenishing energy, not expending it.  You can, however, choose to go for a hike, play some tennis or go for a swim, although I didn't see anyone shedding their robes (the resort's unofficial guest uniform -- yes, even the famous actor was wearing one at all times) for tennis whites.

One of my favorite enclaves was the citrus grove, full of grapefruit, lemon and orange trees teeming with ripe fruit.  Beautiful to look at, even better to eat. 

Grapefruit galore!

So good, in fact, that just before driving back to civilization, I climbed a tree (!) to pick the most amazing lemon I have ever seen...It was the size of a grapefruit and as tall as a 24 oz. cup!

Notice the plastic cup: "Made From Corn"

Two Bunch Palms warns guests to prepare to be "Two Bunched" -- and they definitely delivered.

I may be back in The Big Apple, but I'm still dreaming of The Gigantic Lemon...

STYLE SPY RECOMMENDS: 
A ROMANTIC DINNER WITH YOUR SWEETIE AT NYC'S NOBLE

What:  A cozy, gourmet eatery and wine/liquor bar

Where:  7 Spring Street (just West of Bowery), 212.777.0874

Why:  Besides gourmet comfort food (lobster bisque, roasted chicken with mashed potatoes, foie gras-stuffed burgers, and warm chocolate cake), this tiny gem boasts an enomatic wine serving system (revolutionary technology that preserves the integrity of opened bottles of wine) stocked with rare offerings you're likely never to see served by the glass again.   Worth a trip just for the vino. 

Tips:

-Try the Gevrey-Chambertin, a stunning Burgundy, if they have any left!

-Make a point to ask for Chris, Noble's wine guru -- his extensive knowledge of wine and food-pairing suggestions is part of the charm

Mr. Husband, formerly the wine director at the famed Spotted Pig gastropub, gives the wine list a rave review