How much do you love this dairy state? Especially our fine capital. Enough to wear it around your neck? Think it over and then order one from Stevie of Tru.che when she returns from her travels at the end of July.

Natalie’s handmade skirts have caught my eye for sometime, but now that it’s warm out, I’d really like to buy myself one of her “Jane’s”. OrangyPorangy (as her husband calls her orange hair) sells her skirts at the Madison Farmers Market as well as several stores in WI and online. They’re clothes for the modern lady with classic style.

Update: Natalie is opening a storefront at 2606 Monroe Street in Madison featuring her OrangyPorangy clothing. In addition to her handmade skirts, the shop will have a nice selection of womens vintage dresses, mens vintage shirts and handmade art & home goods from artist all over the U.S. including her husband Mike’s work. Check out zip-dang.com for more info.

With this nice weather I’ve got summer on the brain, so I started looking for a new swimsuit. Have you seen the new Lands’ End Canvas? It’s very cool and I’ve already found these four suits that I like. There’s a store on State Street in Madison and a new website. And did you know that the Lands’ End headquarters are in Dodgeville, WI? The designers also collaborate on a blog with the tagline of “Designed in Wisconsin, inspired by the world around us” — love it.

A new contemporary, fashion-forward store on Madison’s State Street just opened on Sunday. Piece by Atticus has everything priced under $100 to accommodate a wider range of customers. The new store offers a line-up of labels that blend Midwestern designers with bi-coastal and international brands. To check out some of their brands and designers, visit atticusshop.com.

British Fashion Designer Lee “Alexander” McQueen was found dead of an apparent suicide in London at age 40. Now what will Lady Gaga wear?

Project Runway is on tonight and there’s a designer, Anna Lynett, from our very own Whitefish Bay. Since it’s no longer on Bravo, I missed last week’s episode, but will be sure to tune in tonight at 9. Here’s her design on model Cerri from last week’s “create a look that embodies you as a designer” challenge. Let’s hope Anna wins.

I’m hosting Thanksgiving again this year and couldn’t be more thrilled. I have my menu in order and hope to spend this evening at the grocery store. But, before the in-laws arrive, I’d like to buy a new hostess apron like this one from Retro Mama. This Wisconsin seamstress also offers a great damask pink print, but the blue coordinates better with my kitchen. Order it for just $30 here.