For Fall 2009 Leifsdottir journeyed to the ancient monastery Mont St Michelle for inspiration. In the medieval fortress, which rises high above the sea, Leifsdottir encountered a magical world of gothic architecture, gargoyles and griffins, alchemy and astrology, and legends of long ago. The resulting collection is a dark, mysterious fairytale of wearable luxury.

The monastery’s strong lines informed the collection’s architectural silhouettes, which include structured coats and jackets and peplum pencil skirts. Unexpected, romantic traces of ruffle and lace, reminiscent of the costume of noblemen past, soften sharp edges. The interplay of fabric and detail is also laden with contrast. Military touches and intricate antiqued gold hardware adorn soft silks and light wools. Additional detail includes accordion pleating, hand-embroidery and hand-smocking.

The rich, bold color palette evokes the feel of antique tapestries and oil paintings. Gold, copper and crimson berry weave through shades of brown and violet. Graphic, painterly prints, a mix of historical references, bring their legends and stories to life. Retail prices range from $68 to $628.

Two weaknesses of mine? Honey-scented beauty products and luxe hand washes.  Marry the two and you've got Mistral's luxe Fleurs de Miel Liquid Soap ($16).

This honey, linden blossom, lily of the valley and jasmine scented hand wash is the perfect light, fragrance addition to your bathroom sink.  While I usually favor heavier scents for winter, I'm hoping that the sweetness of this fragrance might make Spring arrive a wee bit faster.

If you love it like I do, you might be interested in knowing that there's a matching Luxury Bar Soap, Body Lotion and Body Cream.  Shop the collection on Mistral's site or at select Anthropologie stores.

Fashion confession time: I'm not much of an Anthropologie girl.

While I admire the catalog and much of the assortment, the clothes just don't quite feel *me* when I actually touch them and try them on. Somehow, by not living up to the femininity of the store, I wind up feeling like a lesser gal.

Then along came the Grayscale Blouse.

Very French in feeling, this chiffon and lace delight is uber- flattering thanks to the combination of slimming vertical stripes, a deep v neckline, flutter sleeves and subtle draping.

I imagine it with dark skinny jeans, a nubby knee length cardigan and a delicate red ballet flat.

($128, www.anthropologie.com)