LYRA MAG.

Jessica Gorlicky live painted a portrait of Jean-Claude Jitrois A European semester abroad -junior year (back in the day)...exposed us to more than romantic foreign languages...but also  the fabulousness of family owned French luxury brands still not sold in our hometown... in beauty (Nuxe, La Roche Poseé), superior haircare (Lenore Greyl) and the form fitting stretch leather -sophisticated sexy silhouettes of Jitrois-that were prominently displayed in the premier Paris department store- Galerie Lafayettes, Since then- Jitrois'-worldwide boutiques have established this label as the go to for confident-women with a stylish edge -which was the partial draw to a new Madison Avenue boutique -the other being the leading light-Jean-Claude Jitrois-charmingly serving as host. For Spring '17-which we got a preview of (and wanted it all)...tattoos inspired the delicate embroideries of suede, leather, organza into tulle-as it appears against bare skin. Oh là là. Embroideries that

 Garden of Eatin'-Corn Tortilla Chips,  Clif Bars- Luna Bars Snack eating are a way of life-replacing at least one meal a day for most folks we know-and that's why organic -and/or nutritional options are gaining favor with those on the go. Our favs for Fall-sure didn't last much long- past the point when this picture was snapped-devoured ALL during a mountainous multi-hour hike-and there were only 5 of us. AUTUMNAL FAVS-Garden of Eatin' redefines how big flavorful a tortilla chip can be-not just a bland base for accoutrements-but stand other own salty crunchy bites -staples in snacking households. via GIPHY IMO -who needs salsa (or guac) when these new flavors-the terrific authentic butternut squash (130 calories/1 ounce)available on AMAZON )-sweet spicy bites-hints of sgae+onion- ...AND seasonal organic (:-)) Pumpkin (gluten free too-available on AMAZON )with hints of sea salt, real pepita seeds and nutmeg-a tad sweet from evaporated cane syrup...-are crispy

SECUR, BERNZOMATIC, the COOLEST COOLER, DIGIPOWER, VICTORINOX SWISS ARMY, ENERPLEX  "Life's Batter Outside"-outdoor experiences- from remote locales or packed music festivals-are musts for 'capturing' for visuals viewed later...or streamed live. NO WORRIES...never miss sharing a moment as there's an entire gadget industry devoted to keeping those personal electronics-all fired up-incase you cannot harness the sparks generated by your own physical movements!!! via GIPHY source portlandia.tumblr.com

SlideBelts, Casio Watches, Opinel, Lander Surviving any outdoor survivor jaunt-anywhere on planet earth with ease -and make great gifts for the aesthete too--being well designed...and tough . via GIPHY source adictiz.com SlideBelts -rachet belt design-is slide adjustable- up to 48" waist...pictured-the rugged Survival Belt $180 On left-ferrocirium fire started rod..right-serious integrated folding knife (heat treated AUS-8 stainless steel) can be opened with one hand packaging gives the 411 SlideBelts..."Adventure More, Carry Less"-handsomely packaged the Survivor Belt-is faux leather -actually made of internal webbing core coated in durable TPU alloy-have buckles that resemble car buckles-of highly durable glass filed nylon...and similarly are potentially life saving-as they are nifty compartments for LED flashlight/firestarter/knife/bottle opener. Note-Survival Belt won't survive TSA scrutiny. Pictured in classic brown...

Keep Personal Electronics Plugged In, Lit-Up-Shine-On, and Protected-At Home and On the Road via GIPHY source youtube.com NiteIze, GOAL ZERO , SEATTLE SPORTS Gadget-thing-y mobile device accessory masters NiteIze serves up a solution to those cracked screens and misplaced  cards and dollar bills-a CONNECT wallet that holds and ruggedly protects BOTH-with a CONNECT clip-can clip smartphone when wallet is removed-sized for iPhones+Samsungs.  Never miss a step-recharegable headlamps-are a huge growing category -vital for the early morning/late afternoon hours  in limited daylight hours,..and a smart item for cars and travelers everywhere-no matter how they get there. From NiteIze- Swipe to Shine™ technology-activates the light... INOVA STS Powerswitch  headlamp-dual power options (3 AAA batteries-or , a micro USB, rechargeable lithium-ion battery), dual (red or white)LED options-4 modes -compact+waterproof -and is also a multi-mounter-for accessories-like NiteIze bike-helme

STAY CONNECTED, CHARGED, AND WARM-Personable Wearables, Power On The Go-Off Grid Energy, App Enabled Devices, Hands Crafted Help ThermaCELL, BioLite Energy, RE-FUEL, SHINOLA DETROIT-LEATHERMAN, PUFFY PATCH Part One-What's New: Just when we thought the cooler temps were being pushed forward to early next year-a wave of snow in fact falls-even  ski resorts like Killington VT are ready to open up :-) One of best ways we know-for the perfect fitting hiking boots -to be comfy year round favs-whenthe mercury dips-we add in the heated insoles...by ThermaCELL® that now come in 3 versions for 2016/17...wireless remote controlled-Original+ ProFLEX -up to 5 hours run time and new ProFLEX Heavy Duty -pictured below. Yup-now with Bluetooth connectivity control-for our app world... ThermaCELL ProFLEX Heavy Duty-10x more durable than ProFLEX-control via Bluetooth connectivity- your smartphone (vs a remote) up to 6.5 hours of warmth, removable battery charges up in 80 minutes-mad o

NYC BBL Broadband Light Phototherapy (Review) via GIPHY source perfectlyalahuman.tumblr.com Whether facing the world -barefaced (aka #IWokeUpLikeThis), slightly hidden under tinted lightweight lotions - or full-on hiding under thick concealer - one's skin's texture and tone -from the neck-up-is never really masked. And as the saying goes-want to know a person's age-check out the back of his/her hands. SO TRUE. Which is why-post summer-non-invasive complexion improving treatments for those most visible parts-are growing in popularity. Fortunately-the best solutions don't  require the most time commitment or $ either.

EARTH RUNNERS, VIBRAM, OOFOS, FREEWATERS Recovery shoes-that cushion-massage the feet and absorb stress- are musts for athletes. Also though - barefoot style-minimalist shoes (running sneakers) - def not for everyone-still are worthy as footwear---for other endeavors...as many humans believe  walking barefoot is a great way to strengthen feet-legs. Close-imo-opting for minimal type shoes for strolls on shock absorbing surfaces like dirt/sand-stress free way to build up those muscles too. via GIPHY source julings.tmblr.com Highlights: From Earth Runners-a minimalist outdoors sandal company...is very cool. A build your own custom sandal (more or less 'cushioning' options)-is offered-aimed at different outdoor activities ...from trail running-to camping-travel-or approach shoe etc. We use ours-vegan model-quick drying rubber with it's custom molded minimalist 8mm Vibram® outsole- as the perfect beach shoe. The fit-(it comes with detailed instructions on how to adjus

Made In Italy Premium Women's Sandals-Shoes-Flats-Loafers-Slides up top-ad from Vogue...in front Bernardo 1946 archival selections Resort-Spring Collection Highlights WHAT: Inspired by a rich heritage of unique designs, and distinct architectural -sculptural inspirations-and training of founder Bernard Rudofsky----

TERRA CHIPS: CRISPY+CHEWY Spice-Sweet - Limited Editions, Year Round Favs AHHH ...wholesome pumpkin, juicy fresh apples, aromatic seasonings of cinnamon+nutmeg =the autumnal flavors that seemingly appear across all food and beverage categories...REALLY make their tasty presence known in one of our fav satisfying snacks... TERRA CHIP s-  that this year-has truly upped the ante for what delicious savory-salty-sweet - crispy-chewy bites are .  Made from real whole vegetables - always - sourcing sustainable ingredients-the company MO from the start-has been make the best chips EVER...and imho- practically re-invented the chips category. In a good way. WHAT's NEW: Terra Chips -all non-GMO fyi- 20 exotic root vegetables combined with American heritage versions of sweet potatoes and pumpkin -like the new Beaurguard Sweet Potato (Louisiana), Fairytale Pumpkin (aka Musquee de Provence-rich mahogany color +shape). Delivering now-the winning combo of Swe

 TriggerPoint Performance Therapy, Eternal Naturally Alkaline Spring Water Ask a top performing athlete-from dedicated endurance amateur-to professional-tips for success-and no doubt-recovery is right up there with practice, dedication, grit/luck and proper nutrition/hydration ( okay -and talent)...as the key factors for winning performances. via GIPHY source comedycentral.com Not having a daily deep massage (WISH), or the expensive  NormaTec recovery System  (OTHER wish-gift list), nor tried cryotherapy (need to work up our nerve),  there nonetheless- is an accessible effective help for muscle relief =foam rolling- inexpensive- and not time consuming either-that we do have.

 Part 2 GOOD KARMA SKINCARE, DEVERA NATURALS, I X XI Cosmetics "Clean ingredients' are certainly a skincare concern-just as pronounceable food labels are a must -for growing numbers consumers of ALL AGES. Solution-check out the under the radar brands-launched by small regional beauty entrepreneurs-that are noticeably without the toxic ingredients of many big name beauty brands-def have more of the natural (often pricier) 'stuff' higher up on the ingredient list-yet have reasonable retail prices- challenging some of the mass marketed prestige brands that are more widely available. Good Karma Skincare  -has a travel pack -aka convenient sizes of three products in their  Facial Systems To Go -$35-part of the Lux7 Age Defying Products' collection. Pictured-The Four-In-One Face Cream (for normal/dry skin), Purifying Facial Cleanser, and Balancing Spray Toner. BONUS POINTS : With a serious list of " stuff we don't use "including collagen that is h

BOLLÉ, DRAGON ALLIANCE, VUARNET, SMITH OPTICS, SVEN CAN SEE Changing light conditions...a sun setting earlier and seasonal solar angle shifts-demand multi-tasking sunglasses that can 'handle' the high noon sunshine as well as the low light of weather challenged days. For athletes-wide vision fields, no slip adjustable nosepads, anti-fog and impact resistant lenses that block out damaging rays, and of course, exceptional color clarity-are must attributes. Right up there with lightweight frames that fit faces. Our Picks: Bollé Sixth Sense Sunglasses-RoseBlue lens w/ B-Max extra large field view, B-Thin Active design RX, B-Clear lenses, optical precision, serious impact resistance, interchangeable lenses, anti-fog treatment, Hydrophobic/Oleophobic treatment, adjustable nosepiece/temples

Part One: BOLLÉ CYCLE HELMETS, NITE IZE, BRILLIANT REFLECTIVE STRIPS via GIPHY Since the hot temps and daylight hours- around our universe-have peaked for while-but out lengthy training bouts have not-we are just now appreciating the essential gear we have- that's year round suitable. PLUS: Season-less multi-taskers save $ and closet space. about as neat as our transition spot gets-pictured athlete essentials-Bollé sunglasses. ALL GOOD mineral sport sunscreen, Clif Gel Shot-Espresso with caffeine (duh), speed laces-Newtons running flats, and TYR Skinsuit...cause the swims are becoming less and less wetsuit legal :-( Increasingly- like what we wear-(streetwear takes on 'athlesiure') multi-functional attributes of what we own gear-wise -adjust to changing weather conditions-are musts. Our Picks: Bollé is a company-that we always knew for its tech savvy ski goggles...but it is their cycle helmet-THE ONE- (Road-Premium)-that is hands down- the best fitting

PART ONE: APPRIYA Embracing Naturally Sourced - Cutting Edge Ingredients -the newer skincare/cosmetic labels from ladies-  are gaining favor without the massive marketing budgets or fancy packaging of the big names. via GIPHY Today's consumers have easier access to everything -including information on what works, toxic ingredients to avoid (the well respected EWG 's -or Credo Beauty 's lists of no-nos-avidly read), awareness of the Canadian  Euro Zone's Cosmetic Directive   -a ban of 1300+ chemicals-.and the latest science vs the hype. Our latest favs: Founded by two women- APPRIYA  is a special skincare line based on mineral rich, mountain sourced neutral pH waters containing respected skin/nail strengthener-skin volume inducer, silica- and copper-a natural anti-inflammatory/anti-bacterial-as its main ingredient. With the added benefits of an impressive list of other active ingredients in each product-i.e. the Mineral Complex Serum-with moisture imparting

in our inbox... As if Brooklyn wasn't buzzy enough - today through October 10th- hardcore messenger racing will descend on East Williamsburg when 400 of the best bike messengers in North America duke it out in a closed­course work simulation for the title of North American Cycle Courier Champion.  Speed, routing, package control, and politeness are integral to earning this honor and will all be tested throughout the competition.  A host of side events such as skids, sprints, track stands, footdown, quick lock, wheelie contest, and more round out the talent, athleticism, and goofiness of the weekend, coincident with Messenger Appreciation Day. Records have already been broken this year with State Bicycles sponsoring registration for nearly 100 women thus far, a staggering three times as many historically, according to Kelly Pennington of the Women's Bike Messenger Association.  “We are overjoyed by the messenger community’s support and eagerness for

Part 3 ALTRA, BIRKENSTOCK, FORSAKE, CHACO, TREDAGAIN,  WOLVERINE 1000 MILE X SAUCONY, FREEWATERS, FIVE TEN, SKECHERS Athletic/Comfort footwear companies-makers of sneakers for running/sports on dirt, mountains, or watery endeavors and healthy sandals that coddle...are offering up lifestyle choices for the already wearing their brand types AND people looking for that comfort technology in an everyday wear. High fashion dressy versions-these are not...instead most looks border on the line between weekday work and weekend playable styles. And that's practically ok all the time...except for rarely worn fancy attire anyway ... Highlights: Altra   Dessert Boot- offers a comfortable yet dressier-premium leather upper- take on their fab award winning running shoes. Using the brand's own dual EVA midsole with A-Bound™top layer and FootPod™ outsole -on the signature cushioned Zero Drop™ platform and Footshape™ toe box-allows toes to splay- feet to naturally move the way it sho

Part 2 NINA, NINA ORIGINALS, FRENCH SOLE FS/NY, LATIGO, SUPERFEET Suede's texture, patent's shine, ornate embellishments, and warm rich tones-of F/W shoes transition well-when worn with heavier fabrics of colder climes- as well as lighter attire for  summery days. NINA -LOVE dapper menswear inspired lace-ups for the ladies-pointy toe silhouettes and solid block heel-make these sexy and comfy choice for office dresses/suits-to night's out frocks/denim. Probably the most versatile shoe to add to one's footwear arsenal.  our fav-a 60's staple- the sling back in suede with pretty patent bows. are chic modern musts..NINA Originals makes this summer style for the other months of the year in easy to wear neutral tones. Embellished color blocked- block heels-eye catching-AND easier to walk on vs a stiletto. These feminine suede pumps ref the 70's serve up serious retro glam!  NINA Originals .. .show them off with above the knee dress/skirt. 

Autumnal flashy Flats, dressy Low Heels and swank Block Heels...can  almost have the comfort of summer's flip-flops, sandals, and lifestyle sneakers---but are more sophisticated -and therefore worthy seasonal transition options for feet -that sizzle no matter the outside temps. Shoes, pumps and fashion takes on sneakers-are the earliest wardrobe way to shift to Fall's calendar reality---when we're still basically wearing our summer apparel -with an added sweater/jacket -if needed. via GIPHY source leeesh.com Part One-Pikolinos, Bernardo 1946, Summit by White Mountain, Oysby London:  OUR PICKS: PIKOLINOS -Spanish footwear from a family owned company-sure brings out the sartorial smiles...and why not? The smoothest leathers and oiled suedes- with textural extras this year (felts, wools)-of their urban modern designs are all constructed with the quality worthy of primo brands. Love these-Pikolinos BLACK METAL -in slick looking luxe sneaker, a fab play on the