Pretty and Punk
Monday, June 8, 2009 at 1:24 PM 
As we wrote on Friday, the first lady wore a Parisian-chic scarf in violet and green hues to tour the Eiffel Tower. We were curious to know more about the scarf's label, Prova, which we're delighted to share here.
Prova, which translates to "to try" in Greek, was started by Irini Arakas in 2005, and first focused exclusively on jewelry. Before starting her design venture, Ms. Arakas, a native New Yorker, worked at Vogue as a fashion writer and editor for seven years.
When Ms. Arakas launched Prova in May 2005, the line began immediately selling out at esteemed stores such as Barneys and Kirna Zabete in New York, and Ikram in Chicago. In Fall 2008, Ms. Arakas expanded with the launch of the Prova scarf collection, including a limited edition line of Sandinista scarves and Skinny fringed scares, all crafted from vintage and limited-edition silks and beaded glass fringe.
The Sandinista style, which is triangular in shape, is the same style worn by Mrs. O (sans fringe for the first lady). The scarf was inspired by Clash frontman and punk icon, Joe Strummer. Pretty and punk - what's not to love?
Also in Mrs. O's accessories mix Friday afternoon was a distinctive purple wristwatch, seen here as the first lady toured the Eiffel Tower. We've learned that the watch is a ToyWatch, from the brand's Neon Plasteramic Watch Collection in ultra violet. Mrs. O isn't the first to embrace this playful time piece. Al Gore owns one, and Oprah named them to her list of "Favorite Things" in 2007.
