MOSAICStyle

MOSAIC www.shopmosaiconline.com Featured in Instyle Magazine's November "Best of the Web"

2009-10-21T14:54:00.003-07:00

We are excited about our recent press! Check out MOSAIC in November Instyle magazine's "Best of the Web" feature on page 228 for wonderful handcrafted and fair trade accessories. The magazine makes mention of the global glam reflected in our sophisticated collection.

Save 20% off this month on any MOSAIC item using code "instyle" at checkout.

Shop MOSAIC www.shopmosaiconline.com: SURevolution wood bangles in September Vogue Feature With Eva Mendes

2009-08-30T13:25:00.001-07:00

SPOTTED: Style with Substance.
MOSAIC's SURevolution Neur and Mali eco-friendly wood bangles were featured on Eva Mendes in the September 09 Vogue editorial pages. Shop MOSAIC!

Shop MOSAIC www.shopmosaiconline.com: Fall 09 Necklaces

2009-08-29T11:57:00.000-07:00

In line with their eco-friendly, organic jewelry, MOSAICStyle loves SURevolution's new leaf motif necklaces. Inspired by Greek coins and armor and textured with leaf imprints. Enough flair for any fall look. Choose from gold or silver.
Handcrafted in Colombia.
Shop MOSAIC www.shopmosaiconline.com!

DESTINATION: Savannah, GA

2009-08-21T13:44:00.001-07:00

While visiting lush, historic Savannah, GA, check out MOSAIC's favorite
travel picks:

Stay: The Mansion at Forsyth Park. Savannah's most exquisite, world-class hotel located at infamous Forsyth Park. Each of 126 lavish guest rooms and suites offer the classic refinement of a historic mansion, coupled with modern conveniences for the 21st century traveler.

Play: Drop by ultra-chic Casimir's Lounge at 700 Drayton Restaurant for drinks. Choose from its rooftop terrace overlooking Forsyth Park or their luxe lounge to enjoy live jazz & blues.

Shop: Kenyan-born and bred Zia's store on Broughton Street for exotic handmade jewelry and accessories. Shop the SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design) Store for beautiful artisanal works from students, faculty and alumni.

Dine: 700 Drayton Restaurant offers the best cuisine for the discerning palate. Also check out Savannah's staple, Paula Deen's The Lady and Sons, for the ultimate Southern-style menu.

Visit: Bask in the lush greenery of one of Savannah's 21 historic squares, each named after a historical figure in American history. Make sure to pack a wonderful picnic lunch!

MOSAIC AUGUST SALE PROMOTION

2009-07-28T19:56:00.001-07:00

Shop MOSAIC www.shopmosaiconline.com during our August Sale Event through 8/31. Save an additional 25% off any MOSAIC item by using coupon code "mosaicspecial" at checkout.

Indulge in end-of-season sale specials like Coclico flats and sandals, Pura Lopez strappy heels, Mad Imports raffia totes and clutches and haute SURevolution jewelry!

Happy August shopping!

DESTINATION: Charleston, South Carolina

2009-07-07T17:10:00.001-07:00

Located off South Carolina's coastline, Charleston is a city rich with history and idyllic southern charm. Check out MOSAICStyle's list of must-sees:

1. Stay: Market Pavillion Hotel. Located in the heart of Charleston's historic district, the Market Pavillion Hotel pairs old world charm, service and ambience with modern comforts in a luxurious setting.

2. Play: Chai's Lounge and Tapas. This Asian-inspired space blends unique tapas, cocktails and outdoor entertainment for those warm Charleston summer nights.

3. Eat: Poogan's Porch Restaurant. Nestled in the heart of downtown Charleston, this quaint old Victorian is the ideal setting for a unique dining experience. Named after the fabled little dog that was a fixture on its porch, this is an infamous spot to experience the region's signature "low country/southern cuisine". Make sure to try their shrimp and grits!

4. Shop: King Street's eclectic mix of shops and restaurants and the Old City Market, where local artisans and craftspeople sell their wares. A great place to buy authentic Gullah baskets that are typically weaved right at the market.

5. Visit: The Old Slave Mart Museum for a gripping pictorial of African history in the US. The Old Slave Mart, located on one of Charleston's few remaining cobblestone streets, is the only known extant building used as a slave auction gallery in South Carolina. Also check out the Gibbes Museum of Art's collection of Charleston, the "Lowcountry" and the American South culture from the colonial era through today.

Shop MOSAIC: SURevolution Bangles Featured in Cameron Diaz June Vogue Cover Shot!

2009-06-22T20:49:00.000-07:00

Nothing says modern AND eco-friendly like these hand-dipped driftwood bangles from SURevolution!

Featured on Cameron Diaz in Vogue's June Green Issue, these chunky abstract bangles are crafted from discarded driftwood from the Colombian forests and then individually hand-dipped in precious gold or silver.

Wear one bangle as a wardrobe signature piece or layer them on like Cameron for more drama. Either way, the end result is simply chic!

Shop MOSAIC www.shopmosaiconline.com for SURevolution's beautifully-crafted jewelry and home decor.

DESTINATION: Boston

2009-06-13T14:49:00.000-07:00

MOSAIC's favorite picks in this captivating New England city?

Stay: The Charlesmark Hotel. Expertly located in the heart of Boston's chic Boylston and Newberry Streets, this ultra-cool boutique hotel truly delivers. The hotel's sleek, contemporary design uses custom furnishings to maximize the 1892 building's compact spaces. The Charlesmark also doubles as an art gallery, featuring the work of local artists along its winding brick corridor. Be sure to grab a cocktail in the hipster lounge downstairs.

Play: Wally's Cafe. Founded in 1947, Wally's Café is among the oldest family owned and operated jazz clubs in existence. It was also the first African-American-owned nightclub in New England. Located in an intimate space, Wally's features live music 365 days a year. The jazz club boasts an exceptional lineup of professional musicians, while maintaining its tradition of providing local students with a stage to perfect their craft. A perfect choice every time.

Shop: Charles Street. This off-beat mix of local merchants and international brands is located in the heart of the historic Beacon Hill neighborhood. Choose from its eclectic antique stores, gift shops, art boutiques, and specialty stores like Moxie for fabulous footwear!

Dine: Faneuil Hall. In 1742, Boston’s wealthiest merchant, Peter Faneuil, built Faneuil Hall as a gift to the city. Faneuil Hall Marketplace consists of four great markets, all set around a cobblestone promenade. It is a fun way to experience the city and savor New England cuisine. Make sure to also hit the North-End, Boston's "Little Italy" for legendary Mike's Pastry. One of their mouth-watering cannolis will top off your evening.

Visit: The historic McKim Building of the Boston Public Library. Founded in 1848, the Boston Public Library was the first free municipal library in the United States. A local treasure with truly magnificent architecture, the McKim Building is the perfect location to learn historical facts about the city. Grab a cappuccino from the Map Room Cafe and then bask in the warmth of its luxurious Italian-style courtyard. Top off your afternoon with a unique dining experience at the Courtyard Restaurant. Make sure to order tea and their freshly baked cookies after lunch.

Shop MOSAIC: The Opal Multi Clutch Featured in July's Lucky Magazine!

2009-06-12T09:35:00.001-07:00

Shop MOSAIC www.shopmosaiconline.com for Mad Imports oversized clutches and totes!

The Opal oversized clutch is THE versatile summer accessory that adds polish to any look. Shop Opal in solid hues too like apple, mango and sunflower. Capture summer's essence!

MOSAICStyle: Shop New Rebecca Norman Jewelry For Spring!

2009-05-05T20:49:00.000-07:00

Colored crystals. Hammered metals. Shop MOSAIC's www.shopmosaiconline.com new jewelry pieces.

Rebecca's Norman artful play of combining signature hammered metals with gemstones has fueled her obsession with crystals this season. Looking fabulous has never been so effortless. Shop MOSAIC!

MOSAIC www.shopmosaiconline.com Partners with Indocara For First Hometown Showcase

2009-05-03T16:54:00.000-07:00

MOSAIC's Founder & CEO, Chioma Amegashie, recently partnered with Indocara for a Mother's Day shopping event in Madison, WI. Owned by Natasha Vora, Indocara's beautiful space was the perfect location for a sensational showcase.

Indocara is a fabulous global home furnishings store in Madison that blends rich, diverse furnishings and decor from India, Indonesia and Thailand. Check out Natasha's unique collection designed to enrich your home with timeless Asian harmony at http://www.indocara.com/. MOSAICStyle loves her signature pieces!

View our event photo gallery. Photos by Haywood Simmons Photography @ hsimmons@advancedsportsmarketing.com.

MOSAICStyle: New! Shop Mad Imports Spring Totes and Clutches

2009-04-22T16:59:00.000-07:00

New! Shop MOSAIC's Spring '09 handbags! Woven textures are hot and Mad Imports' strong silhouettes and playful hues make perfect accessories for any summer look.

Founded by Laurel Brandstetter, Mad Imports is a environmentally and socially conscious fair trade company who markets handmade accessories from Madagascar and Kenya. Launched in 2003, the line's colorful accessories blend traditional and contemporary designs from international artisans who incorporate renewable raw materials. What's not to love?

The season's must-haves? Shop MOSAIC www.shopmosaiconline.com for Opal clutches in a variety of colors and the Sayulita multi-colored tote.

MOSAIC's www.shopmosaiconline.com SURevolution featured in May '09 Elle Magazine

2009-04-19T22:19:00.000-07:00

MOSAIC loves SURevolution! Check out their raw stone rings and organic cuffs featured in the May '09 edition of Elle magazine on page 116.

The stories behind SURevolution's items are truly intriguing. Colombian artisans that craft SURevolution jewelry trek tropical woods to find discarded semi-precious stones for rings and felled trees for gold or silver hand-dipped cuffs.

Shop MOSAIC www.shopmosaiconline.com for SURevolution's raw amethyst stone rings and other signature jewelry items.

MOSAICStyle Visits Coclico and Chie Mihara NYC Showroom for Fall '09 Preview

2009-02-23T17:38:00.000-08:00

Playful fringe on mid-heeled suede t-straps and mary janes in luscious fall hues. Cut-out cage booties in pebbled leather. Wood bottom high-shaft boots in butter-soft leathers. Both Coclico and Chie Mihara footwear are filled with signature must-haves for Fall '09!

MOSAIC loves Coclico footwear! Founded in 2000, Coclico (French for "poppy flower") is the creation of a French expatriate Sandra Canselier. Sandra grew up in Brittany, France, where her family has been making shoes for three generations.

The Coclico brand aesthetic combines Euro-style and comfort with eco-friendly materials, paying homage to old-world Spanish shoe craftsmanship. Viva Espana, where both lines are produced.

Our Fall '09 favorite? The luxurious wood bottom high-shaft boot is a MUST!

DESTINATION: New York City...MOSAICStyle's Whirlwind Weekend

2009-02-23T17:36:00.000-08:00

MOSAICStyle loves the pulse and energy of New York City! Each visit to this international mecca is filled with new-found discovery. Our list of recent NYC favorites:

Stay: The Benjamin Hotel, a stylish setting, sophisticated service, and classic elegance. Conveniently located in Midtown Manhattan in a classic 1927 building carefully restored to its original grandeur, The Benjamin Hotel provides discerning New York City travelers with a warm, intimate atmosphere and the utmost in unparalleled personal attention.

Play: Nikki Beach Midtown. The world famous ambience of international Nikki Beach is effortlessly captured in this hot spot. Nikki Midtown combines classic beach club elegance with Manhattan sophistication. Featuring an all white decor, vaulted ceilings, bamboo posts and rustic wood tables, this venue is perfect for an after-work happy hour or cocktails and late night dancing.

Shop: Eclectic boutiques and specialty stores on Mott Street and its environs in Nolita. Home to MOSAIC www.shopmosaiconline.com vendor Coclico's store, this shopping destination is a weekend must. Choose from small, independent labels to popular designers like Sigerson Morrison among others.

Dine: Serafina on Broadway. Located in the recently renovated Dream Hotel, Serafina serves up rustic Italian classics with whimsical flair-under Murano glass chandeliers, mosaic tile walls and delicately hand painted vaulted ceilings. The perfect location for a weekend brunch or an early dinner before the theater. Try their delicious wood-oven pizzas, seafood and pasta. Consistently divine!

Korto Momolu Rocks the MacDella Cooper Fashion Week Benefit

2009-02-23T17:01:00.000-08:00

An evening of "runway and charity" aptly describes the incredible event hosted by the MacDella Cooper Foundation during New York City Fashion Week at Nikki Beach Midtown in Manhattan. MOSAIC was proud to partner with this fabulous organization dedicated to improving the lives of Liberia's abandoned and orphaned children.

Project Runway alum Korto Momolu's Fall'09 collection was the evening's highlight. Synonymous with impeccable craftsmanship and construction, Korto's beautiful prints, brocade patterns and luscious jersey knit pieces made for quite the showcase. MOSAICStyle will continue to showcase Korto's inspired collections.

MOSAICStyle Loves Rebecca Norman Clutches

2009-02-13T19:45:00.000-08:00

What's not to love about designer Rebecca Norman? From her best-selling sculptural jewelry to the new textured clutches now available at MOSAIC, Rebecca's unique, special items are handcrafted with flair out of her Solana Beach, CA studio. Her modern aesthetic is the result of an adventurous spirit and vast global life experiences.

Her life sketch reads like a true global nomad. Of Australian heritage, Rebecca grew up in Taiwan. After moving to the US in 1985, she earned a degree in jewelry fabrication and goldsmithing. Rebecca Norman Inc. was formed in 1995 as a creative outlet for Rebecca to express her innovative and modern jewelry design concept.

Shop MOSAIC for these intricately designed clutches and matching cuffs that are sure to command attention!

MOSAIC www.shopmosaiconline.com Exhibits at the MacDella Cooper Foundation NYC Fashion Week Benefit

2009-02-07T20:58:00.000-08:00

Join us for an elegant evening of fashion and Shop For A Cause! MOSAIC is proud to exhibit and support the MacDella Cooper Foundation New York Fashion Week Benefit! All of the evening's proceeds support the MacDella Cooper Academy, the first tuition-free school for Liberia's orphaned and abandoned children opening in 2010. Shop our beautiful new spring items. Win special MOSAIC items donated for the raffle/auction.

The benefit is on Friday, February 20th, 2009 from 6pm (exclusive cocktail reception) to 11pm at Nikki Beach Midtown, 151 East 50th Street, Manhattan. The event will include an unveiling of the MCF Academy building rendering by acclaimed architect Winka Dubbeldam and include an exclusive Fall 2009 Collection viewing by fashion designer Korto Momolu, finalist on Project Runway, season 5.

Free Shipping during MOSAIC's Holiday Sale Event!

2008-12-09T13:02:00.000-08:00

Shop MOSAIC's uniquely crafted footwear and accessories, jewelry, home decor and gifts this holiday season.
Our favorite picks this season?

To help you celebrate, the shipping is on us! Use the code "shipping" at checkout.

MOSAICStyle's Michelle Obama Inauguration Pick

2008-12-09T11:27:00.000-08:00

We could not resist a post about how MOSAIC loves Mrs. O's signature style! She is the epitome of the modern woman and her personal style reflects a clean, timeless sophistication with a little bit of an edge.

MOSAICStyle's vote for the big day? After reviewing Womens Wear Daily's wildly popular designer "sketch-call", the Michael Kors blue gown is definitely "that one"! Simply said-she would look spectacular!

View all of the submitted sketches at Womens Wear Daily.

A Must-See Documentary: Pray the Devil Back to Hell

2008-12-03T18:54:00.001-08:00

Make sure to check your local listings for a powerful documentary that speaks to the unrelenting strength of women and the human spirit.

The Best Documentary Winner at the Tribeca Film Festival, Pray the Devil Back to Hell http://www.praythedevilbacktohell.com/nonflash/index.htm is a riveting account of the power of women who banded across religion and tribe to bring peace to war-torn Liberia. After decades of civil unrest, this heroic group of Liberian women demanded that warring factions find the road to peace and stability. The documentary details terrifying experiences of survival that can be heart-renching,yet it will still inspire you to do your part to move mountains. A MOSAIC must-see!

The Smithsonian Museum Does An Evening of African Chic

2008-11-23T19:14:00.000-08:00

The infusion of African-inspired textiles and silhouettes is becoming more relevant in today's fashion industry. Tribal influences were clearly evident across Spring 08 runway collections by Kevan Hall and Michael Kors. Batik-print tops and dresses also gained shelf space with retailers like Urban Outfitters and Anthropologie. On Tuesday, October 28th, 2008, the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art hosted an event to pay homage to all that is "African Style". Aptly named "African Chic: Inspiring Global Fashion" the event set to celebrate.

The roundtable discussion on African textiles and their influence in modern fashion was driven by a panel of fashion leaders including Project Runway alum Korto Momolu, G. Kofi Annan of Annansi Clothing Co., Vogue Magazine Sally Singer, Gallery Asha's Julie Ward and Brenda Winstead of Damali Afrikan Wear. Check out upcoming events at Smithsonian National Museum of African Art.

SURevolution Wins Coveted ACE Award in Washington, DC

2008-11-23T18:40:00.000-08:00

This month, our beloved vendor SURevolution was the small business recipient of the coveted Award for Corporate Excellence (ACE) by the US State Department in Washington, DC. Each year, several small businesses and multinational corporations are selected based on their commitment to corporate/social responsibility in countries where they do business.SURevolution's founders, Marcella Echavarria and Dina Rothstein, are both Colombian-born. SUR's mission is to link the ethereal world of artisans with the luxury consumer market.

They actively work in Colombia and India with urban, rural and indigenous communities, offering an opportunity to preserve their heritage through design and earn a living wage. MOSAIC loves all of SURevolution's intricate designs-their jewelry (best-seller leaf cuffs and earrings anyone?) and home accents. Most of all, we love partnering with companies whose ideals emulate MOSAIC's core values!

Great job Marcella and Dina! Kudos to you on your wonderful accomplishment!

Pura Lopez Dress Shoes Are Haute!

2008-11-23T18:11:00.000-08:00

It is without question that we are die-hard fans of Spain's Pura Lopez footwear. In fact, our Fall 08 MOSAIC Pura Lopez evening shoes are so smoking "haute" that both Instyle (p.271) and Essence(p.62) magazines have featured them in December '08 editorial spreads.

What is it about both pumps that adds polish to any holiday evening look and thereafter? It's simply all in the details! Both pumps are the perfect blend of attitude, mixed with soft femininity. Plus a rosette or ribbon detail on any of your signature items this fall adds just the right hint of drama. The results?
Absolutely magical. Shop MOSAIC.

DESTINATION: Tunis, Tunisia

2008-03-22T13:54:00.001-07:00

Dubbed North Africa´s hidden jewel, Tunis is located near Africa´s northernmost tip. A short flight from Barcelona's El Prat airport via TunisAir or AirFrance transports you into a captivating world of rich history, warm hospitality and modernity. Expect hearty lamb tagines, cous cous, and plenty of, surprisingly, excellent wine.

MOSAIC´s Global Escapes List of Must-Sees are:

1. Carthage- The scenic drive along the Mediterranean to view splendid ruins of ancient Carthage offers a glimpse of the country's presidential palace. Who has not learned of Hannibal and the brave Carthaginians who challenged ancient Rome´s might? Today, ruins of ancient Roman baths, shrines and temples offer a glimpse into history. Check out the Roman theater ruins, still used for the annual Summer Festival of Carthage.

2. BIWA Restaurant-Eat your heart out New York City. Located in the yuppie Berges du Lac neighborhood, this local favorite serves up waterfront meals with Euro-Tunisian flair. A prominent destination for well-heeled locals, this spot is perfect for casual dining and scenic views of Lake Tunis. Be sure to request ¨the´a la menthe¨, North Africa´s age-old mint tea specialty, with your meal.

3. Sidi Bou Said-This gorgeous, white and blue hued Northeastern village is filled with Tunis´ elite and a hot spot for global nomads. Spend an afternoon shopping local stores filled with Tunisian ceramics, mosaics and other handicrafts. Explore rustic art galleries like Art Galery El Artista www.tunisianart.com, featuring art and jewelry by owner, Mounir Letaief. A tour of Dar El Annabi, an ancient Tunisian-style home turned museum, showcases traditional customs. Lounge and sip tea at the infamous Café des Nattes with its signature birdcage handing outside its immaculately carved doorway. Marvel the exquisite views of the jeweled Mediterranean sea under the stars from outdoor Cafe´ Chabaane, decked with authentic Tunisian rugs and other textiles for added flair.

4. The Medina Souk, located on Avenue Habib Bourgiba, Tunis' "Champs Elysees¨, is the marketplace of choice. Endless choices of old-world Tunisian textiles, ceramics, lanterns, leather goods, scented oils and other treasures abound. Be ready to perfect the art of bargaining with local shop owners for great prices on the perfect souvenir that captures your Tunisian adventure.

5. Drive to Korbous- The scenic hour-long drive outside of Tunis showcases the vibrant lifestyle of traditional Tunisians. Stop by a local restaurant along the way to experience authentic Tunisian grilled lamb specialties. Top it off with some ¨mlewe¨, a crepe-like delicacy or ¨tabouna¨, Tunisian unleavened country bread baked in a clay domed oven. Once you hit Korbous, dip your feet or swim in the local hot springs alongside residents to receive storied blessings.

6. Indulge in the luxurious Hamman bath at Hotel Les Berges du Lac - Queens of yesteryear and today make this a must-have. Experience the eucalyptus steam-filled chambers of the ancient bath and simply relax. After bathing, prepare to be exquisitely massaged from head to toe with precious oils.

MOSAIC Chats with Chie Mihara at MODACALZADO in Madrid, Spain

2008-03-08T20:21:00.000-08:00

While walking MODACALZADO, Spain´s premier international footwear and accessories showcase, I am really excited about Fall 08. In footwear, there are lots of greys, taupes and glossy patents. Suedes in rich jewel tones such as purples, blues and rich yellows are everywhere. Yellow is also hot this spring. Oxfords are more feminine than they were last fall, with softer accents and delicate heels. Leather boots, made to travel the earth, are in all shaft heights. The focus on textures continue, with large-scale croco and snake dominating. Satin finishes and jewelled embellishments in dress shoes from Magrit, http://www.magrit.es, and Pura Lopez http://www.puralopez.com , a hot MOSAIC brand, are exquisite. Watch out Manolo, Magrit is stiff competition and a gem at this show!

I stop by the Chie Mihara booth, ¨rocking¨ my favorite ¨Chies¨. They continue to command attention from urban sophisticates wherever I go. I cannot contain my excitement, as MOSAIC will carry Chie Mihara footwear in Fall 08. The woman behind the brand is pretty and petite. Chie Mihara is unassuming, despite the modern-day movement she has created in expanding Spanish-inspired fashion across the world. Her life story reads like a true global nomad´s. Of Japanese descent, she was born and raised in Brazil. She studied design in both Japan and at FIT in New York, and worked for American footwear brand Sam and Libby. After working with Charles Jourdan in Spain, her vision to create a line of sophisticated, feminine yet comfortable shoes, made for and by women, came to life. Chie purposely does not design shoes more than a certain height to ensure proper balance of a woman´s proportions. She really understands the woman´s foot. Alas, this is why I can strut the streets of Madrid in my marvellous ¨Chies¨ with relative ease.

In only a few years, Chie Mihara is now an international sensation. Her love of fashion is very evident. She designs from her own inspiration and is not bound by trends. MOSAIC loves her creative genius. The brand´s signature is Spanish craftsmanship, coupled with unexpected details like cone heels, interesting hardware, buttons, pleating and stitching for added flair. Her Fall 08 collection offers intricate stitched details on t-straps, mary-janes and boots.

So I ask her, "When can we anticipate a Chie Mihara concept store stateside?" Sorry folks, but her first concept store will open in Tokyo, Japan. She does have her eye on a New York location, having lived there for five years and loves the city. A one-stop destination with over a hundred Chie Mihara shoes to choose from?! Chie, just tell us when and where.

DESTINATION: Madrid, Spain

2008-03-08T19:20:00.000-08:00

Viva España! Spain is red-hot! Its solid influence in the global fashion scene is quickly emerging. From high-fashion brands like ethereal Manolo Blahnik, Balenciaga and Custo Barcelona, to modern-day chic from Chie Mihara and Camper, Spain´s age-old commitment to excellence in the craftsmanship and quality of its leather goods permeates the industry.

Scouring Fall 08 Footwear and Accessories trends for MOSAIC brought me to MODACALZADO in Madrid, Spain´s premier international showcase that highlights its artisanal brands, including Pura Lopez, Magrit, Pedro Garcia, Jaime Mascaro and Farrutx. It has been a phenomenal experience.

What is it about the spirit of Madrid that stimulates all the senses? Is it its history, its architectural marvels that abound? Could it be the city´s world class museums? Or, its fabulous tapas available on a whim? Whatever the answer may be, Madrid is a city that never sleeps.
A five-day ¨tour de Madrid¨ has inspired MOSAIC´s first Global Escapes list in this world-class city:

1. Calle Serrano is the premier shopping district for the city´s well-heeled and fashion-conscious. El Corte Ingles http://www.elcorteingles.es/ is Spain´s department store destination, with the Calle Serrano 47 location as its flagship. You can find every brand, from Carolina Herrera to Pura Lopez and Loewe, http://www.loewe.com/, a signature Spanish luxury brand popular across Europe.

Check out Swedish Ordning & Reda http://www.ordning-reda.com/, located at Calle Serrano 98. This is my new favorite store to organize my life-at home and at work! Drool over their killer, ultra-modern laptop bags, snakeskin journals and other fun storage accessories. Also check out Farrutx http://www.farrutx.com/, located at Calle Serrano 7. This Spanish footwear empire dominates in both well-crafted casual and dress shoes. Their fresh take on wood bottoms and espradrilles for Spring 08 still lingers http://www.farrutx.com/start.php?lang=en .

ZARA Home http://www.zarahome.com/ is still one of my favorite global home destinations. This latest visit validates that global chic is everywhere! See beautiful images from their Spring 08 catalog. ZARA has a presence stateside in major US cities, but its home store is a strong extension of the Spanish lifestyle. Ethnic and tribal influences from around the world are plentiful, in a wide variety of textiles, and in housewares and decorative accents.

2. Maneuver the Metro and the Renfe to truly experience the city.
Madrid is Spain´s capital and largest city, with over 3.2 million city residents. The best way to see all that the city offers is to purchase inexpensive metro http://www.metromadrid.es/or renfe http://www.renfe.es/tickets for endless travel possibilities. A modern, extensively-mapped system makes it a welcome way to discover Madrid.

3. Plaza Mayor and the La Latina area evoke the history of the city´s artisans. Walking through Plaza Mayor channels centuries-old history. The square has served as a farmer´s market during the Middle Ages, a bullfighting center, and has even held old-world inquisition trials. More recently, Plaza Mayor has become a foot-traffic mecca with shops, restaurants and entertainment for both tourists and residents alike. In and around the La Latina area, the bohemian arts neighborhood, is the origin of the city of Madrid,where authentic tapas bars are plentiful and nightlife teems.

4. Visit the Museo Nacional del Prado and Museo Nacional Reina Sofia. Do not visit Madrid without tapping into its world-class musuems. My top two picks are the Museo Nacional del Prado http://www.museodelprado.es/index.php?id=49&L=5, which highlights classical art throughout the centuries. The Museo Nacional Reina Sofia http://www.museoreinasofia.es/portada/portada.php is an eclectic modern-contemporary museum, now running an extensive collection of Picasso´s life-long images and La Noche Española, highlighting the history of Spain´s flamenco art form.

5. Callao and Gran Via neighborhoods are key destinations for shopping and nightlife. A great tourist location, Callao and Gran Via are home to some of the city´s monumental buildings. This area is also Madrid´s ¨Broadway¨or theater district, as it ranks third in the world for musical premieres. With a strong selection of chic restaurants and great shopping, this area has enough to entertain all.

6. The Chueca neighborhood is alive and hot! A small gem in Madrid, this neighborhood reeks of urban, cool sophistication, with great boutiques, restaurants and bars. Visit Consuelo Arenas, located at Calle Hortaleza 78, an ultimate shoe-tique for the global fashionista. The store offers high-end brands like Pedro Garcia, Etro and Magrit. Next, head over to Divisa, located at Calle Hortaleza 102 or its sister store at Calle Argensola 2, to unearth signature leather handbags, delicate tops and dresses. NAC, a global fashion paradise with offerings from Juan Lopez Garcia, Maloles and other emerging designers, is home to clean and modern sophistication. Simply amazing!

After a full day, Areia, http://www.areiachillout.com/, located at Calle Hortaleza 92, is the ultimate bohemian cavern for relaxation, while sipping a cup of Moroccan mint tea, or laying out on one of their beds, enjoying a great dessert or cocktail. Next up....Barcelona, Spain.

MOSAIC´s Official Launch Event & Exclusive Shopping Night in Oakland, CA

2008-03-08T18:38:00.000-08:00

MOSAIC´s official launch event was held on Friday, February 22nd, 2008 at the Esteban Sabar Gallery in Oakland, CA from 6-9pm. It was a magical evening, filled with family, friends and well-wishers.

Guests took advantage of an exclusive discount and enjoyed a private preview of premier Spanish designer Pura Lopez´s footwear and Corso Como shoes made in Brazil. Complimentary signature cocktails and global hors d'oeuvres were served. Music from around the world played, as guests experienced the MOSAIC brand and shopped its ¨live¨ store set up for the evening at the gallery.

A portion of the proceeds from the evening benefitted Tigerlily Foundation http://www.tigerlilyfoundation.org/ and The African Women´s Cancer Awareness Association http://www.awcaa.org/.

To purchase any featured images, contact photographer Janet Sheard at qsheard@earthlink.net. | View photogallery