Contest!

It's no secret that New Orleans is Esther K.'s favorite locale.
Tell us what city melts your heart and why in 100-150 words and you'll be in the running for a $100 gift certificate valid for purchases on estherk.net.

To enter, e-mail your entry to info@estherk.net.  All submissions must be in by Monday, January 25.

Laisse le bon temps roule!

Do You Know What it Means to Miss New Orleans?

Since Mardi Gras is just around the corner, we caught up with our friend, Lauren; with her Cajun roots and sweet drawl, she's our go-to Southern girl.  Whether you're headed to the Big Easy or want to recreate a day of debauchery in your own home, with Lauren's recommendations you're in good hands.  Check out her blog at Nola West. 

In the weeks leading up to Mardi Gras, locals gorge themselves on sugary king cake. Out-of-towners can have one from Haydel's shipped right to their door.  

Pace means everything, since you'll be reveling all day long.  Start off on the right foot with a Bloody Mary made with Zing Zang, and doctored up with heavy doses of horseradish, Worcestershire, Tabasco, and black pepper.

Even when you pile on the beads, avoid looking like a total tourist with a shirt from Dirty Coast.

And most of all Mardi Gras means music; above are a few of Lauren's essentials that'll have you second lining like a pro in no time flat.

Yvonne Sporre

Some great things:
Tan legs, grape popsicles, and these little dresses by Yvonne Sporre.

Power Trip

Started gathering inspiration for the new collection.  Forget sweet pixies and fairies; love that these witchy women look like they'd have no qualms about castings some seriously powerful spells. In 2010, I predict pieces that combine natural elements, amulets, and a pinch of magic to create totally unapologetic designs.