Pretty Smart.

New York. (invited up to see "Smokey Joe's Café.")

My host, a charming former marine biologist who spends most of her weekends in her Upper East Side garage, her thick auburn hair tucked up under her cap, rebuilding a ragged-out 1953 MGTD.

"Guess you think you're pretty smart with your caftan offerings?" (The real reason for my invitation begins to unfold.) "Quite nice, but what about when it turns cooler?" (I remain silent pretending to be absorbed in the process of ice melting in my glass.)

Next day, she slipped a note into my pocket. During the flight back, I read it. One word. Denim.

(You know, I think she's onto something….)

Denim Caftan (No. 2481), made of 6-oz. cotton denim (washed for softness). Simple V-neckline, side seam pockets, 14" side slits.

Color: Blue Denim.

Women's sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL. Imported.

Follow-up phone call. "If you really want to make me happy, how about a necklace with a fiery passion?" Hope this is what she had in mind.

Naga Red Necklace (No. 2564). Approx. 30 strands of glass seed beads strung on strands of jute, joined in back by a old conch shell and knotted joint.

Length: Approx. 31". Imported.

Color: Rusty Red. When you want to add a little voltage.