Fannying the Flames of Desire

I would consider myself a bit of a design junkie, so why then may you ask am I such a supporter of fanny packs, now becoming known by the alternative name "hip belts". My co-workers wondered if I was a bit off my rocker when I kept excitingly demonstrating how I could make the MZ Wallace sequined "Eve" bag into a fanny pack by wrapping the long cross-body strap around my waist twice. Perfect!

The Fanny Pack faced a hard reputation, becoming nearly blacklisted after it made history in the 80's because the only stylish one I ever came across in the last couple years was a metallic silver one by Marc Jacobs, bless his heart, but at the $495 price point I never quite got around to purchasing one. He and many other designers have expanded a bit more into the fanny pack market.

I love this new version by Marc Jacobs in cotton brocade I found featured on Elle.

I like this inspired slim and better yet, removable, drop pouch style found on Alice by Temperly.

For the sporty uni-sexy look try the American Apparel Nylon Cordura at a much easier $22 and available in fun candy colors you can buy one for every day of the week.

One reason I'm such a fan is, I dislike the idea of having to shove a wallet in my butt pocket, a la dude style, just to be hands free. I also started biking to work and everywhere else this summer and being a fan of fashion and functionality, have been exploring alternatives to my shoulder bags for stylish, comfortable and secure methods of carrying things.

Find 10 more reasons to love the fanny pack and more places to find them through StyleHive.com. I will definitely be rocking them this fall and probably many years to come.

E-Pop Shop

I logged on to MZ Wallace's retail website the other day (not an uncommon activity for me) to sneak a peek at their upcoming fall collection. Instead of fantasizing about future trends, I wound up quite literally blindsided by their perfectly current "Summer E-Pop" collection, chock full of everything I am obsessed with at the moment.  Punchy neon accessories, tribal touches, and even a few great beauty buys make this selection a must-see. See my top picks below! 

From top to bottom: Made With Love bracelets ($28), large neon Metro Tote ($125), electric blue Beresford wallet ($125), and natural canvas Hamish for Japan ($25). 

Unfortunately the collection is only available online, so we sadly won't be carrying these beauties in the shop. Stay tuned for fall, though! ;) 

See the rest of the collection here!

OPEN to buy

I recently came across a new clothing line that caught my eye and is a gem that needs to be discovered!

Closed Clothing has only been around for a short while, but their line of garments are all original pieces created by owner and designer herself, Liz Larson. Having previously worked in Chicago and Los Angeles as a costume designer for box-office hit films, she wanted to merge here love for fashion and costume design into one signature line.

What makes Closed Clothing unique is that each piece is individually hand painted, so no two pieces are exactly alike. The material used to paint is non-toxic, non-fading and lightfast, so you don't have to worry about losing your custom design to the washing machine, however Closed Clothing does recommend hand washing if you can.

I first spotted the line at the Farmers Market downtown, where I sweet talked my pops into buying me one of their tanks. Not to mention, their prices are affordable so you don't have break the bank to own an original piece!

New pieces are added often, including women's, men's and soon to be children's apparel.

Check them out on facebook for new updates on styles or hit their website at

www.closedclothing.com.

Teenie KKINI Bikini

Bikinis are apart of almost every girl's summer wardrobe. Girls secretly compete with one another to see who has the cutest swim suit. Your swim suit is a fashion statement. KKINI bikinis by Michaela Cawley definitely make a statement.



Michaela Cawley is an Omaha native and graduated from Westside High in 2002. She then ventured off to college in California and decided to study abroad in Cape Town, South Africa. Cape Town marked the spot where her love for bikinis and beachwear started. She collected many bikinis while she was there, and then decided that she wanted to start designing them.



After she finished her schooling in California, Cawley traveled back to Cape Town where she studied beachwear. So to make a long story short, she started her own line, KKINI, found a manufacturer, and her luxury swim line was born. KKINI is now sold online, in NYC, and in Cape Town.



Cawley will be featured in the Fall 2011 Omaha Fashion week. The Troc is also lucky enough to team up with her to exclusively carry her glamorous swimsuits in the store for a limited time only. Trocadéro is featuring the blush pink and silver glitter bikinis along with the ultra bright neon yellow and grey strip cover-up. KKINI swim suits are chic and affordable. They range in price from $110-$180. Stop by the Troc and try one on!

Source: omaha.com
Pictures from KKINI Facebook page

My Two Hours with Alexander...

... McQueen, that is.

I posted a To-Do list a few weeks back for my recent trip to New York. The first item on the list was to see the Alexander McQueen "Savage Beauty" exhibition at the Met. Well... I came, I saw, and I absolutely loved it.

As I climbed my way up the Met steps, camera in hand, I couldn't wait to get inside and see all of his brilliant pieces from over the years. Once inside, I paid for admission (students are recommended to pay half-price, but may choose to pay whatever they please) and made my way to the gallery on the second floor. I could tell it was more popular than I expected because every tour guide didn't even need to hear your question; they knew you wanted to see McQueen.

After being carefully guided into a line of around 200 people, I silently waited my turn to enter the exhibit. Twenty-five minutes and two phone calls later later, I was allowed in. Sadly, my camera was not.

The first room was slightly daunting with it's pitch black walls, faint music playing eerily in the background and noticeable difference in temperature. Not to mention, the first dress was crafted from microscope slides dyed blood red. As I made my way through the crowds of people attempting to get up-close-and-personal with the garments, I was (dare I say it) a little creeped out. I overcame that feeling once I read a quote from McQueen that had been painted on the back wall. It read, "You've got to know the rules to break them... That's what I'm here for - to demolish the rules but keep the tradition." This made me smile.

The following room was much less dark and featured a variety of structured jackets and tailored pants he designed for his collections. I really appreciated how close I could get to the clothing in this room. I was stunned by how perfectly made everything was. It all seemed to be draped at the perfect angle, darted in the perfect spots. With this, I slowly began to realize that the thing things I was looking at weren't just clothes; they were art.

The next rooms featured many of McQueen's extravagant dresses that were the true show-stoppers in each of his shows. A dress and dramatic neckpiece covered in gold feathers caught my eye. I'd put it in a fall Look Book I made for the Troc sometime back and had gazed at it through my computer screen for upwards of ten minutes. And there it was, in all its beauty right in front of me. Needless to say, it was stunning.

My favorite was the fifth room, dedicated entirely to the accessories featured in runway shows. Being around them every day at the shop, I was in my element. Masked mannequins were adorned with headpieces, earrings, backplates and shoes that I couldn't even dream existed. It's amazing how each one was so carefully constructed down to the very last inch. And they were only accessories...

After that came many smaller rooms and hallways each styled in compliance with the pieces on display. One room for a collection titled Nihilism, full of dresses adorned with mud and locusts designed around primitivism became a hallway for McQueen's Highland Rape collection, inspired by his Scottish heritage. Here, I realized the breadth of inspiration McQueen used for his collections. His main mantra was romanticism, but the influences expanded much further. It was truly something to be admired. His ability to design incredible pieces of work that could be created from such differing muses was, and still is, truly unmatched.

The last few hallways were pieces of work themselves as I walked along broken floorboards and psychedelic video images played on stark white walls. Said videos were the backdrop for the last room featuring McQueen's final collection, Plato's Atlantis, before his untimely passing in 2010. The alien-like mannequins stood atop Armadillo heels made famous by Lady Gaga and were styled in short structured dresses with aquatic patterns. The collection resulted from McQueen's perception of a future in which our ice caps eventually melt and humans then become aquatic creatures. Ideas like this are what I found most interesting. His mind clearly had no limits and his clothing shows it.

I digress, the Savage Beauty exhibition at the Met was an experience for the books. After having seen it, I can barely put my opinions into words. This is my best shot.

All photos from http://blog.metmuseum.org/alexandermcqueen/.

Shopping in SoHo

I have recently realized that my closet is full of clothes I barely wear and lacking clothes I am dying to wear. Therefore, I have set out to solve this problem and slowly rejuvenate my clothing collection. To do so, whenever I buy a new piece clothing I promise myself I have to donate at least one piece I already have. I just packed three entire boxes of clothes to be given away. So now that I am in New York City with my days free to shop and stroll about, I took today to reward myself with a few items I've been wanting for the summer. Here's what I came back with.

Top:

Wedge booties in taupe - These were on my birthday list because I do not own a pair of booties (the horror!). They were also 40% off. Bingo!

Middle: L to R

Tie-bottom cotton tank in black - I read somewhere that tie-bottom shirts fit best on pear shaped women. Having a tiny waist and wider hips, I see myself wearing this with almost anything.

High-waisted denim skirt in grey - I knew this was a wardrobe staple from the second I saw it. The light grey shade is the perfect neutral to balance out any bright color.

Daisy crop top - Too cute not to buy. These shirts are great for hot weather when paired with a longer skirt.

Bottom: L to R

Tie-bottom linen tank in white - I liked the first one so much, I got a second.

Floral print high-waisted shorts - I don't have enough prints in my closet, so these were a great find. Tuck a tank into these and you've got a super cute summer outfit.

Striped cotton tank - I have the same shirt in grey and have worn it to shreds. Another one of my wardrobe staples.

Well, I think that's about it for my shopping excursions in NYC. I'm coming home with a few great items I can't wait to put to use and finally getting rid of some things in my closet. Success.

Make Your Summer Wardrobe Work for You

Living in Nebraska, one of the most common questions people ask me is "How do you stay fashionable and cool in the ridiculously hot weather while still remaining work appropriate?" (or at least something to that effect). Since this summer we've experienced some BLAZING temps, I thought I would finally share some tips for staying stylish and cool while keeping it professional at the same time.

Fabric choice is key in hot and humid situations. Look to lightweight fabrics like silk, bamboo, linen and other light knits and sheer fabrics to keep it breezy.

While fabrics like silk and linen require a little extra care and handling, the few extra steps are well worth the beautiful outcome and heat relief.

Lightweight tops and shirt dresses are perfect for this weather, offering ease and breath-ability. Blousy shirts look smashing tucked into a skirt or belted with a summer cardigan.

A winning office look from the blog Alterations Needed.

This silk "Blythe" shirt from J. Crew is easy to wear and super chic.

Ann Taylor's tank dress may seem casual at first glance, but when paired with a summer blazer and a smart pair of pumps or flats (or sandals where appropriate) this number will get you through the work day, cool and collected.

Roll up your sleeves in a cotton blazer, flash a bit of color and texture detail with a bracelet like this snakeskin link option from Kara Ross, and add a simple belt to tie it all together.

Banana Republic's ruffled blouse is a feminine twist on a classic white dress shirt and still holds up the sophistication factor when paired with a slacks or a pencil skirt.

Sea foam green and red come together to make a simple work outfit pop. A feather-light cardigan like this linen version from Banana Republic is perfect to keep you cool outside and cozy in the office.

Tory Burch's linen skirt is both work and weather appropriate and stunning in this bold coral shade. I love the idea of it paired with a lacy top like it's shown, with a crisp pale blue dress shirt or even a silk sleeveless blouse.

Pant options like these from J. Crew are perfect for the office and the cropped fit adds a more fun take on traditional, boring khaki.

Photo sources:

JCrew, Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Tory Burch, Kara Ross, Alterations Needed

Stars of Omaha Fashion Week

The Fall 2011 Omaha Fashion Week is right around the corner and this year the Troc has the pleasure of partnering with them. Omaha Fashion Week has only been around for a couple of years and is already one of the largest fashion events in the Midwest. This great event gives young designers the opportunity to flaunt what they got! This week, I decided to interview one of the youngest designers, Kate Walz, that will be debuting her new collection this coming August. Walz is only 14 and this will be her third time designing for her line 'Just Because' for OFW. Most girls her age are busy drooling over boys, having sleepovers and gossiping with their girlfriends, but Walz is not your average 14-year-old. Here is what I found out:

1.How did you get involved with OFW for the first time?
An Omaha Fashion Week director saw some of my clothing pieces at Bellwether Boutique, requested that I apply for the spring show in 2010, and I was chosen.

2.Where did your love for fashion come from and when did it start?
I have always loved fashion, but I first started designing when I was eight years old, and just starting in 4-H. I participated in the designing and sewing competitions at the local and state level. I started selling my designs at Bellwether Boutique when I was 12 years old, and started Omaha Fashion Week when I was 13.

3. How did you learn to sew garments?
I took a couple of classes at Bernina when I was eight, and everything else was self-taught. All of my designs are original, designed and sewn by me, without using a store-bought pattern.

4. How old were you when you first started designing?
I was eight years old.

5. Where do you get your design inspiration? And where do you go for your own personal fashion inspiration?
I get design inspiration from almost anywhere; nature, vintage clothing, and architecture are some of my favorite. I get my own style inspiration mostly from anything vintage, and I am constantly wearing my great grandma's old jewelry. I just wear what I like, and don't particularly follow "trends."

6. Who are some of your favorite designers?
My favorite designer is Coco Chanel, and I would definitely say i am inspired by her designs. I also look up to Jane Round, Buf Reynolds, and Dan Richters for their talent and individuality.

7. Where are your favorite places to shop?
I don't really have a favorite place to shop, but I love the stores Republic of Couture, Nouvelle Eve, Coriander, and SheLa.

8. I know this is your third time designing for OFW. Are you just as nervous/excited as the first time?
I wouldn't say I'm as nervous as the first time because all of the other designers are all so supportive. I would definitely say that I am as excited as my first time in the show however, because I think it gets even more fun every show I participate in.

9. You are one of the youngest designers for OFW. Do you feel like your age has any affect on your performance?
I don't think that my age affects my performance because Omaha Fashion Week gives all designers the same chance no matter their age.

10. What advice would you give to a first time designer for OFW?
That their line makes sense and has a flow to it. Make sure that all of the designs in your collection have the same theme so they don’t look lost.

11. What are your future plans and goals?
I would love to move to New York and have my own store where I can sell my designs. I would eventually like to participate in other Fashion Weeks all over the world, but for right now am very grateful for Omaha Fashion Week.

What's in My Bag: Megan

Admittedly, I am the queen of oversized handbags. I hate feeling like I am leaving home without something I "need." For most of the year, you'll catch me hauling around a bag comparable to myself in size, but for the summer I am much too busy running around to be tied down with too much stuff. This makes a crossbody my go-to summer handbag. This also means I am forced to pare down to just the 'essentials'. Here's what made the cut:

(clockwise, starting from upper left corner)

-L.A.M.B. "Kiss Me" Card Case - I stash my credit cards, I.D., and miscellaneous receipts in here.

-Jane Iredale Pressed Powder - This stuff feels and looks INCREDIBLE. I am a huge fan of mineral makeup foundations. Although Bare Essentials is my all time favorite, this Jane Iredale powder is pressed-- a major pro since I'm throwing it in my bag. (Most mineral foundations that I've come across come in loose powder form. EEEK! Anyone who has ever had a eyeshadow or blush crumble in their purse know this is a huge no-no. Typically, I keep all cosmetics in a makeup bag, but there's no room amidst this mere essentials list!)

- Ralph Lauren Tortoise Aviators - I fell in love with these as soon as I tried them on (rarely can I say this about most sunglasses, unfortunately). I have a heart shaped face, so aviators are typically my go-to frames. The tortoise color has a really contrasted light/dark pattern, giving the shades a vintage vibe. Now, if only I could find the perfect pair of classic, oversized shades...

- M.Z. Wallace Platinum Leather "Bettie" Pouch: From Trocadero, of course! I'm head over heels for this little guy. He's the perfect wallet for a smaller handbag, and my future iPhone 4 will fit perfectly inside him.

-Monster coin purse - This pouch actually came with a gift card from Anthropologie I received last Christmas, and I loved him so much I had to put him to use. I usually feed him with coins for the meter.

 -Emergen-C Fizzy drink mix - Whenever I feel a cold coming on or when I simply want something more than plain water, I mix a packet of Emergen-C in my water bottle. It's tasty and good for you!

-Pop-up Brush with Mirror - I MUST have a brush on me at all times. My hair is too long and too unruly to go without one. (That reminds me of something that didn't but definitely should have made my list: NAIL FILES! I am always in need of one of these! I'm not overly obsessed with my nails, but once my nail snags on something I cannot for the life of me leave it alone.)

-Lip Balm/Lip Gloss - Right now I'm carrying the Laura Mercier Hydra Tint in Nude. It's a great summer color (the perfect not too tan/not too pale nude), is mosturizing and has SPF 15. I'm also carrying Origins Once Upon a Shine lip gloss in Ruby Slipper. I own several of the Once Upon a Shine glosses, and they all deliver just enough lip color and have a pretty shimmer to them without being 'sparkly'. 

-Moleskine Planner - I compulsively make lists and write everything down. Embarrassingly enough, I'm very territorial about my notebooks and planners...they're for my eyes only!

-Canon S95 - My new love affair. I have a lovely Nikon DSLR, but it's much too large to carry with me all the time. This camera is the perfect travel size and takes lovely photos!
'
-Purse: Rebecca Minkoff Morning After Clutch in Black - This purse can be worn as a crossbody, as a shoulder bag (as shown in the photo) or it can be used as a clutch. Talk about multifunctional! When the clock strikes midnight and my tiny summer purse morphs into my oversized handbag for the school year, it still makes the perfect evening clutch.

All About Eve: Styling MZ Wallace's Sequined Bag

MZ Wallace "Eve," $245

At first glance, it's impossible not to be drawn to MZ Wallace's stunning sequined "Eve" bag. The glitzy rose gold clutch has the distinct ability to catch the eye of passers-by. Customers often argue that this lovely little accessory isn't really the pillar of practicality, at which point I chose to demonstrate differently. 

While you may be intimidated by its glam and glitz, I'm a firm believer that this bag can serve as the perfect compliment to soft neutrals at any time of day. Not only that, but it comes with an optional cross-body strap, meaning you can sling it over your shoulder during the day or carry it as a clutch at night. 

Of course, this edgy-yet-feminine bag can easily become your evening staple. It can effortlessly be worn with other neutrals - I like it with a slouchy dress and tough booties for a brilliantly balanced ensemble (see outfit 1). 

The real challenge, however, comes from styling it casually. You'd be surprised at how versatile sequins can be for day, and once this bag catches the light of the sun you won't be able to lock it away in a closet just for after-five use. Again, it pairs perfectly with a casual printed tank, soft jersey maxi skirt, feather earrings and strappy wedges (see outfit 2). In fact, I'd argue that the addition of the "Eve" makes this ensemble easier to wear for any occasion.

The way I'd personally wear it is with what has come to be known as my summer uniform - a soft and slouchy blouse with a pair of worn-in, high waisted denim shorts (see outfit 3). I'd just stack on a few everyday Alex & Ani bangles, slip on some sandals and head out for absolutely anything. 

all about eve by shoptrocadero

The MZ Wallace "Eve" and all shoes pictured are currently available at Trocadero. 

Now, I challenge you - how would you wear the "Eve"? 

New York, New York

Working at the Troc and as a nanny for our owner, Alice, this summer, I imagined I'd be confined to the cornfields of Nebraska for the entirety of my stay. As it ends up, Alice has lent me out to another family as a nanny for their summer vacation in New York City. I recently found out the kids are both enrolled in camps from 9am-4pm. So, that leaves me with most of my daytime to roam the streets of the Big Apple completely solo. I've always been one to fly by the seat of my pants, but because I'll be alone most of the time, I've organized a list of my Top 10 Must-Do's in NYC. Here it goes.

1. Be in the presence of a legend: Ever since Alice brought it up to me, I've been dying to walk through the Alexander McQueen Exhibit at the Met. The collection on display is comprised of more than 100 garments from his 19 years in the fashion industry. From the looks of it online, the rooms are just as eye-catching as the clothes.

2. Schmutz around: I'll be traveling with a Kosher family for this trip, so I'm bound to have the chance to eat at a tried & true Jewish deli. I may not eat corned beef or stuffed cabbage (vegetarian, here), but I've always wanted to taste test some real Jewish delicacies. Knishes and blintzes, coming right up!

3. Reach for the stars: This one is a quintessential experience for any traveller to New York City. I've done it before, but I'm told the trek to the top of the Empire State Building is best at dusk. With a view that looks out over the city and a summer sunset, I know I'll be crossing this off my list fairly easily.

4. Get back to my roots: While searching for things to do during my days, I came across a site recommending I go green by visiting a rooftop organic farm. Apparently, there are quite a few located right inside the city, where one can pick up fresh produce while learning about their environmentally-friendly practices! Right up my alley.

5. Indulge my sweet-tooth: While watching Best Thing I Ever Ate, pastry chef Johnny Iuzzini recommended we try Chikalicious' fromage blanc cheesecake. Watching him eat this light and airy dessert surrounded by a moat of whipping cream, I couldn't help but put this on my to-do list.

6. Expand my wardrobe: The shopping scene in New York can't be beat... that's a fact. So, naturally, I hope to stroll through a few stores I can't find in Omaha. On my list - british retailer, TopShop, has haute couture style at affordable prices and Opening Ceremony brings new and experienced American designers to the forefront of fashion.

7. Eat a heavenly meal: Being an immense foodie, I'm willing to go all out for at least one meal while in the city. I'm deciding between Sushi of Gari and Les Halles. The former was recommended to me by Alice, who claims it's the best sushi she's ever eaten. The latter is chef Anthony Bourdain's home-base that cooks simple, delicious french food. Oh, decisions!

8. Remember where I came from: My father is a veteran of the Viet Nam war and I've always had an immense appreciation for those who serve our country. This is the main reason for my itch to pay my respects at Ground Zero. I haven't been to the site yet and I feel that it's such a huge part of New York and U.S. history, it's necessary I visit.

9. Embrace diversity: I get my fair share of latin-american culture while in Los Angeles during the school year. However, all other cultural neighborhoods pale in comparison to the ones in New York. I'm really hoping to devote an entire day to navigating my way through Little Italy, Chinatown and Greenwich Village to find souvenirs unique to their backgrounds.

10. Get artsy: As a graphic design major, I figured I could find a little time to expand my art-filled horizons at the Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum. The space is the only museum in the country focused entirely on design from all eras and I can't wait to take a peek at what's inside.

Well, there it is. My list in all its glory. I'll let you know how many items I crossed of the list when I get back!

I Spy...

Today I was on my friend Melissa's Ruby Press PR's blog and was drooling over the Fuji Instax Mini camera she posted about. All I could think about was how quickly could I get one in my grubby little hands? I've always been a fan of polaroid cameras; I still own various incarnations of them, but alas, it's nearly impossible or unaffordable to get film these days. I decided that this camera was the perfect item for me to take quick on-the-spot developed photos of friends who are traveling from far away destinations to attend our upcoming nuptials. One trip to amazon.com and my cute little instamax is on its way...While on Melissa's blog, I checked out some of her favorite sites. One name caught my eye: La Dolce Vita. "The sweet life" in Italian, it bears a resemblance to the Troc's tag line: The Good Life (a.k.a. the state of Nebraska's motto). When I checked out La Dolce Vita, I saw that her "About" page had a photo of the author (Paloma) and she is pictured sitting in front of a framed "Paris and Ses Monuments" map, just like the ones we sell at the Troc...and the same one I have hanging in my baby's room.I love discovering new things on other people's sites! What have you come across in your web travels that you found you could not live without?

source: Instamax

source: La Dolce Vita author in front of Paris map

These Summer Trends are Heating Up!

Looks by BCBGMAXAZRIA, Herve Leger, J.Crew, Forever 21, Kate Spade, Alice+Olivia and Chamak by Priya Kakkar.

This summer is all about being bold. It's time to step outside the box and revamp your look with these exotic prints and vibrant colors. Some of these trends can even be carried over into fall. Ladies, skin is in... snakeskin, that is! If you're not comfortable wearing a pair of snakeskin pants, like the BCBGMAXAZRIA ones pictured above, then try it on something simpler like a belt or clutch. The skin will add just the right touch to an outfit, without being over the top.

To be honest, when I first read that tribal prints were a summer trend, I was completely opposed to the idea. I told myself this is one trend I will not buy into. Now when I look in my closet, I've noticed that I've bought too much of it. I love the geometric and modern style the prints have! This print is fun to play around with, whether in the form of a romper, dress or skirt. At least one of these tribal items should find its way into your closet this summer!

The colors this summer just keep on getting brighter. Color blocking is another fun trend to test out this summer. Pair different vibrant colors together and add a fun printed scarf or bangles. By switching up colors and patterns, you can achieve so many different outfits with just a couple basic pieces. In doing so, you can achieve instant style!

Kidrobot London

I recently got back from my month long European adventure. I had such an amazing time, but I have to admit, towards the end of my trip I was a tad bit homesick... So imagine my surprise when I came across the Kidrobot store in London! A little bit of home away from home! 

I could spend a lifetime in this store. There's so much to take in! One of the toys I couldn't take my eyes off were the Yummy Desserts. Similar to the Yummy Breakfast toys, the Yummy Desserts are a blind assortment of vinyl treats such as chocolate covered strawberries, popsicles, smores, and ice cream cones!

Another thing that caught my attention was "I am Plastic Too" book. The book features over 140 artists and their personalized Kidrobot toys.

The book inspired me to make some Kidrobot creations of my own! Kidrobot sells a line of vinyl "Munny" dolls that are virtually blank canvases ready for you to scribble, paint, pierce, etc.!

Here are some of my favorite creations from the Kidrobot website:

The options are endless for these little guys. Personalize your own Munny doll, now available at the Troc in solid white & black ($30) as well as Mini Munnies in blue & white ($15). With so many fresh ideas from visiting the Kidrobot store, I can't wait to get my hands on one myself!

Warby Parker Launches Shades for Summer!

We here at the Troc have long shown our love for the eyeglass entrepreneurs over at Warby Parker here and here, so it's no surprise that we have all fallen head over heels for their new summer sunglasses collection! The classically cool styles all feature the same flat rate of $95 and can be fitted with prescription lenses.

Most styles will become available in late June, although the Griffin (below) is currently available. This particularly special pair includes a two-part charitable contribution - not only do they donate a pair of specs to someone in need (as with all Warby purchases), but $30 of each sale goes to Invisible Children, a group of inspiring young activists dedicated to documenting and sharing stories about children affected by war in central Africa.

WP + Invisible Children "Griffin" Sunglasses, $95

If the sleek and smooth "Griffin" doesn't suit your style, rest assured that the other styles in the sun collection will stay true to their modern-meets-vintage aesthetic. Although I've been pining after a pair of Karen Walkers, I have to say I may skip those in favor of these fantastic tortoiseshell "Everett" shades once they're made available.

Learn more about Warby's sun collection here and let us know what style catches your eye!