An air of femininity: fans

Given the request to turn down the air conditioning, I expect to see a resurgence in the most alluring of accessories, the fan. An elegant woman would enjoy this silk batik version, framed in solid pinewood, by Thai designer Malati.

Let's banish those battery-operated hot-flash mini fans, nasty whirring plastic bullets with zero charm. Carry this graceful number to a restaurant, or hang on a wall to delight the eye. The very essence of spring!

You can find Malati fans and her other creations, including silk batik scarves, at the Novica web site. This fan, at $28 (plus $4 to ship to US addresses) is an affordable indulgence or original gift that will also prove practical on the first muggy evening.