Fiesta Fun!

Cinco de Mayo, the annual celebration of Mexican heritage and culture, ranks up at the top of my list of favorite holidays. First, it’s a convenient reminder that summer is right around the corner. And if you read my recent post about our Tulum vacation, you remember how much we love to visit. I’m feeling very connected to the vivid, happy colors and spirit of Mexico lately, which served as inspiration for a handful of pieces in the latest Pink Chicken collection. Plus, it’s just impossible to be in a bad mood when mariachi and margaritas are involved. Here are a few of the ways we're celebrating this year. 1. D.I.Y. GUAC: Since when did I need an excuse to dive into a bowl of guacamole? Never! I have a friend in Los Angeles who swears by this Wolfgang Puck recipe. Making the extra effort to roast the garlic to give it a mellow nutty flavor is the secret. http://www.wolfgangpuck.com/recipes/view/2645/california-guacamole     Maybe I'll double it??   2. HABLA ESPANOL: With our Rosetta Stone language program downloaded and ready to go, my husband John and I have made a pact that we will finally master Spanish before our next trip south of the border. The girls are speaking it in school already, and the plan is that once we de-plane in Cancun next year it’s espanol solamente for the week.   3. HANG A PAPER BANNER: These "Papel Picado" cut tissue paper banners are instant mood lifters and space-changers. As easy party décor or just an overall mood lifter—we strung them in the window of our Madison and Amagansett stores and it erased every last memory of winter in seconds—it’s a Mexican tradition that I’ll happily adopt. ($17.50 at lunabazaar.com) 4.WEAR BOLD EMBROIDERY: Bright, floral Mexican embroidery has always caught my eye. I used to snatch up simple beach dresses from vintage shops and street vendors whenever possible.  We’ve refined the style a little, making it lighter weight and slightly more delicate for the Amber top for women and Lucielle dress for girls in this season’s collection. But we’ve kept the vibrant colors and the relaxed, Boho feel of a Mexican holiday for grown-ups and tiny chickadees alike. Enjoy! And Viva la Mexico!