School House + Field Notes

Our friends at Field Notes give the Little Black Book a run for its money with their beautiful, durable brown notebooks.

We’re thrilled to offer their classic 48-page, Made in America (always) memo books as the first of many forthcoming “School Supplies” on ShopSchoolHouse.com.

Order a set of three in Ruled, Plain, and Graph Paper designs and you’ll never go back to your old composition book.

(Pssst… this week only, we’re throwing in a FREE set of Field Notes when you purchase our irresistible Blutarsky Sweater.)

We’re Live!

We are so excited to announce the launch of our new website! Make sure to check it out

Athletes Made In USA, Uniforms not

In case you haven’t heard, the U.S. Olympic team recently released their uniforms for the 2012 Olympics Opening Ceremony, and the release has left a lot of critics in its wake. The uniforms were designed by none other than Ralph Lauren- a brand bred out of the American legacy of tradition and craftsmanship. However, despite the origins of the brand, like the other products of the company, the actual uniforms were made in China. Wide-spread speculation has crossed throughout the country, and Congress, that the U.S. uniforms should  in fact be made in the U.S.A. 4 years ago this same debate was brought to attention when Ralph Lauren created uniforms that were once again made in China. So the question is, is it the responsibility of our Olympic team to represent our country through  American-made uniforms?

Many Congressman think so. In recent years, companies (like us) have been moving their manufacturing factories back to the U.S. There’s a sense of pride to say that your products are 100% Made In USA- the labor, the craftsmanship, and the high quality all reflect what our country has to offer. And people are looking, and need, these textile/manufacturing jobs in the country. If the U.S. is so proud of what our manufacturing has to offer, why would the U.S. Olympic team wear China made products? That is the question being raised. Some Congressmen went so far as to say that the “uniforms should be “put in a pile and burned.”

But the Olympic team has a different view. In a response to the heightened criticism, a U.S. Olympic committee representative said, “The U.S. Olympic team is privately funded and we’re grateful for the support of our sponsors. We’re proud of our partnership with Ralph Lauren, an iconic American company.” ( L.A. Times)

The question is, how far is too far? When does International manufacturing begin to tear away at American pride? When would we ever think that the Olympics could cut down our patriotism- instead of elevate it? Our uniforms is the answer.

What is your opinion? Do you think that our uniforms should be Made in USA- or is everyone making a big deal out of nothing? Tell us what you think!

 

Triple Crown Madness

Horse Racing is one of America’s oldest sports- and Saturday could be a huge day of history in the making for horse racing and America alike. Saturday is the day for the Belmont Stakes- the third and final leg to horse racing’s most prestigious set of races known as the Triple Crown. In order to be a Triple Crown Winner a horse must win all 3 races – The Kentucky Derby, The Preakness, and the Belmont Stakes- which is no easy feat. So far only 11 horses have won the Triple Crown, and there hasn’t been a winner since 1978. But one lucky horse, I’ll Have Another, has the chance to win the Triple Crown after winning the first two legs of the crown earlier this year.

With all the excitement, there is no better way to celebrate than a Triple Crown viewing party!Whether you’re betting or watching for fun, get your friends together and dress your best for “a day at the races.”

For some fashion tips at the racecourse, try to go girly. Think pearls, peplum bodices, lace collars, etc. Go with a sundress and plenty of accessories, but don’t forget this spring/summer’s fashionable styles! Try color blocking or using patterns and pastels to create the perfect look. And don’t forget the head gear! Although the Kentucky Derby women are most known for their big hats, there are plenty of hats at the other races, too! If a big floppy hat bothers you than try a headband with a flower or bow on it.

Outfits from left to right:

Dress: fatface.com $46, Shoes: wallisfashion.com $56, headband: target.com

Dress: axparis.co.uk $38, shoes: asos.com $31, hat: houseoffraser.co.uk $23

Dress: topshop.com $80, belt: topshop.com $30, shoes: tobi.com $60, headband: L.Erickson pretty bow $42

Or if you’re cheering on the Derby winner I’ll Have Another, wear his signature purple and white colors!

Dress: aritzia.com, Necklace: modcloth.com $50, belt: awear.com $50, Shoes: stevemadden.com $80

Tune in on Saturday at 4:30 pm for the race!

Trying to Go Green or have you already gone? Help others!

Going Green is becoming more and more popular! For those of you who have already “Gone Green” share your tips and advice with others!

http://www.thedailygreen.com/contribute/going-green/community-tips/