Retie the Apron Strings

One of my favorite kitchen "tools" is my apron, which may seem a little outdated and unnecessary, but so is the name of my blog ; )

Mine is a half-apron, much like the one pictured, in a bright pink and yellow floral pattern, with a ruffled border and a small pocket on the front. Its unnecessarily girly, but also extremely utilitarian. You wouldn't believe how often its saved me from being doused with cocoa powder or olive oil...plus it gives me a place to wipe my hands if I have to answer the phone and....where is my phone???...stored in the little pocket!

"Vintage" style aprons seem to be surging in popularity among in-the-know domestic types, which means you can find fabulous styles, all over the internet. Check out the dashing diva website, shabby-chic mecca anthropologie, and maybe even your local gift shop or bakery. I found mine at The Lovely Bakeshop -- if you're in Chicago, its worth a visit (plus pick up some of their tea cakes....yum!).

For the crafty, aprons are also incredibly simple to make, whether you're an expert seamstress or a complete novice. Follow Martha's instructions to make a super-simple version out of a couple of dish towels.

And if your mother or grandma is still wearing her cheesy (or cheese-covered) "Kiss the Cook" apron from 1989, why not give her an excuse to unleash her inner girly-girl. If you're still looking for a Mother's Day gift (and didn't see my earlier post), a frilly, floral apron will have her singing....just be sure to let her know you're not expecting her to cook Mother's Day dinner.