Another Side of Red

When you think of the month of February, what comes to mind? To some it’s a month of romance and friendship. For others, it’s a time of chocolate or flowers. Whatever pops into your head first, there is probably a color associated with it… the color red. You may be familiar with some of the messages behind this fabulous hue: exciting, assertive, stimulating, dramatic and passionate. It’s a power color for sure, not only mentally but also physically. It’s been known to increase enthusiasm, raise blood pressure (and possibly one’s heartbeat and pulse rate), as well as encourage action and confidence.

As some of you may know, I loovvee the color red – any time of year. (It’s no accident it’s part of my logo.) However, rather than take the meaning of the color so seriously, I thought it might be fun to showcase a few whimsical items that incorporate red. Caution: even if you don’t usually wear red, you might just be tempted!

Lip UmbrellaGray skies are going to clear up. But until they do, you’ve still got to protect yourself from whatever Mother Nature has in store. It’s simply not possible to let the pesky precipitation get to you with this transparent bubble umbrella, detailed with sweet polka dots and a playful face graphic. What’s more is that it will probably put a smile on the faces of others as well. ($65 at www.shopbop.com)

It’s not what you think. But it may be what you need: a tote that’s roomy enough to carry life’s little necessities, in a seasonally approKelly Look-a-Like Bagpriate fabric (who doesn’t love felt), at a price that won’t break the bank. Sure it reminds you of an iconic classic, but it’s done tongue-in-cheek and doesn’t take itself so seriously. And to that I say, Kelly who? $60 at www.chicwish.com)

Striped BlazerStripe on! Wide or narrow, stripes are a strong part of the equation this season. Somewhere between a cozy pullover and a tailored jacket, this stripe blazer is so great for so many reasons. It rocks the stripe trend that’s so big right now, plus the vertical lines are slimming. And it can easily be dressed up or down. What’s more, it doesn’t take itself so seriously. Can you say love? ($270 at www.stylebop.com)

Leave nothing to chance. After months on the pop charts, the lyrics of Carly Rae Jepsen’s song still play in our head: “Hey, I just met you,Call Me and this is crazy. But here’s my number, so call me maybe.” Why not take the uncertainty out of the equation and lend a playful touch with this plastic iPhone cover? You can’t say it’s not clear. ($55 at www.shopbop.com)

TarteIt’s the best of all worlds. Don’t let the name fool you. Tarte’s LipSurgence™ lip tint delivers nondrying, sheer color while keeping lips hydrated and refreshed. This award-winning tint is goofproof-it goes on like a lip gloss, stays on like a stain and hydrates like a dreamy balm. ($24 at www.tartecosmetics.com)

Can you hear my heart go pitter-patter? Everyone needs an evening bag and chances are you already have one in your closet. But does it make your heart sing (or at least hum)? A hard-framed metal clutch swathed in shimmering metal mesh features a fab, faceted,Heart Clutch stone clasp closure. Work it back to your evening ensemble with a bodycon dress or skirt for a look that is sure to break hearts. ($149 at www.mimco.com)

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