Summer Essential #5: A One-Piece Swimsuit

A swimsuit can say a lot about a woman, don't you think? Maybe it says she's laid back, or silly, or feminine, or in love with a past era. Whatever her personality, there always seems to be a swimsuit to match. Here are seven pretty one-pieces for the summer... --Rachel from Elephantine

1. Patchwork Maillot, $218.
2. Natalie One-Piece, $148.
3. Purple Bandeau Tank, $82.
4. Red Polka-Dot, $86.
5. Red Striped Halter, $208.
6. Blue Bandeau Swimsuit, $30.
7. Bustier One-Piece, $253. (So cute on the model.)

Which would you choose? (I also love this striped one and this seersucker one in yellow.)

P.S. More round-ups...

(Layout by Rachel from Elephantine, a new Cup of Jo contributor)

Cocktail style

A few years ago, for a dear friend's bachelorette party, I set up a "make your own mojito" table. Maybe the cocktails weren't so perfect, but playing bartender was half the fun. Ever since then, I've been fascinated with all the different tools and accessories out there for mixing drinks at home. These are on the top of my wishlist. -- By Rachel from Elephantine

1. Spicy Bloody Mary Mix, $13.
2. Dizzy Cocktail Glass, $2.50.
3. Bar Whisk, $5.
4. Wood Lemon Reamer, $9.
5. 101 Mojitos and Other Muddled Drinks, $11.38.
6. Formosa Tray Table, $49.95.
7. Elderflower Presse, $8.
8. Shake Rattle & Roll Cocktail Shaker, $38.
9. Canine Coasters Set, $18.

What's your "drink"? Do you make cocktails at home? Plus, more round-ups...

(Post by Rachel from Elephantine, a new Cup of Jo contributor, who will be posting every couple weeks. Thank you, Rachel!)

Bathroom beauty

I once read that if someone stops by unannounced and you only have a few minutes to tidy up, focus on the bathroom. It's the only room where a guest will spend time alone, and consequently they'll pay more attention to their surroundings. A guest may not notice the vintage vases on your bookshelf, but they'll definitely see the hand soap by the bathroom sink. Here are seven favorite picks for that clean and pretty bathroom. -- By Rachel from Elephantine

1. Bird House Bath Tissue Holder, $12.99.
2. Robin's Egg Soaps, $24.
3. Wooden Toothbrush Set, $12.50. (See how the toothbrushes say "guest?")
4. Fog Linen Towels, $27 to $70.
5. Recycled Glass Canister, $29.
6. Sailor's Soap Dish, $20.
7. Ombre Bath Mat, $29.

P.S. More round ups...

(Post by Rachel from Elephantine, a new Cup of Jo contributor, who will be posting every couple weeks. Thank you, Rachel!)