The wonders of space, mater, solar systems, the earth, mountains, waters and atoms that hold it all together will more than likely always be a constant and ongoing question until the end. All it takes is one clear night, a quick glance at the sky and more questions can fill your head than you can handle. These days, of course, we could look up and see the stars (go figure), or we can turn to the internet for high definition images of galaxies far away – which in reality are hundreds of millions of light years away. Which then really means that what we’re actually seeing is hundreds of millions of years old and the fact is that it might not even be there anymore. Crazy, huh? It’s a lot to think about and a lot to take in.

Fortunately for us, there are people like Bill Bryson who ask themselves these same kinds of questions, then decide to dedicate years of time to understanding all of this with intention of generating a book that explains just about every question we might want to ask. What’s even better, is that Bryson does it in a comical and very understandable sense. Bryson has once again figured out a way to explain things (in this case the universe and our home planet) in such a way that’s anything but boring, not hard to understand, and yet, not dumbed-down.

A Short History of Nearly Everything includes a long list of well written facts including just exactly what an atom is to where the tongue twister “She sells seashells…” came from. If you end up liking this book, Bryson has a long list of other creations that are all worth your while. Try, A Walk in the Woods, or In a Sunburned Country.

The following are photos I took of how the day progressed (I couldn’t resist, and Rachel didn’t mind). Please be sure to keep checking her facebook page for the actual look book, follow her on twitter, and see what she’s up to on the Academy blog. You can also shop her current stock here.

Look Book Credits:

Photography: Maxwell Runko, Mikala Casuccio

Models: Julianne Zimmerman, Emily Glisson

Styling: Rachel Albright

It’s amazing to me that something so visually and naturally beautiful has been translated into audible form, nearly equally as charming, honest and mysterious.

Check out more of Bartholonäus projects here at http://traubeck.com/.

With all of the new arrivals coming in, we’ve decided to get our staff member Molly Szkotak, to choose some her favorite new items as well as some items that keep her going throughout the winter. Not sure what it takes to survive a cold winter in Richmond, take a look.

1. D’Angelo Returns: Richmond’s own reclusive R&B legend recently announced his first tour in years and upcoming album and people are rightfully freaking out about it. Although he may not be at his “(Untitled) How Does it Feel” video prime, his soulful voice and production by ?uestlove should make it worth a listen. The bad news is all the concert dates are in Europe. Be right back, booking a ticket to Paris…

2. Instagram: I know everyone and their mom has this app now, but that makes it more fun! This addictive photo-sharing platform makes all your photos looks cool and its fun to see the world through your friend’s eyes (and vintage filters.) I follow many fashion, food, and nail-art enthusiasts which makes for a constant stream of inspirational eye candy. Make sure to follow me at “Mollywho” and Need at “needsupplyco”!

3. Hot Yoga: This is one of the few workouts I actually enjoy when stuck in the dark and frigid winter doldrums. Some may think deep stretching and sweating profusely with strangers in a small room heated to 90 degrees sounds like torture but it’s actually heavenly. It’s cathartic and gets you in shape, not to mention heating your core temperature fights colds. One of my favorite studios, Om On Yoga at Libbie and Grove, also doubles as a cute boutique.

4. Miansai Bracelets: Without fail warm weather has me itching for anything that makes me look like I summer in Cape Cod or Martha’s Vineyard, and these nautical rope bracelets do just that. These charming, Friendship-style bracelets are a unique and colorful addition to any burgeoning arm party (and they’ll look even better with a tan.) Get one here.

5. Leonard 2 in Safari: Anyone who knows me is aware of my sick obsession with animal prints that puts any Real Housewife to shame. These beauties by Illesteva (the ILLEST EVA) have been on my short list the second we got them in stock. The large, round frames give them a vaguely Golden Girls vibe which can’t be beat. Get them here.

6. VMFA Elvis exhibit: One of the best cultural institutions Richmond has to offer currently has a great photo exhibit running called “Elvis at 21” that’s not to be missed. It features 56 (all taken in ’56) black and white photos by Alfred Wertheimer of the man at his youthful, snarling best (a.k.a. pre drugs and sequin jumpsuits.) The candid shots are an interesting peek into a young man’s life pre-stardom, and several were taken in Richmond. Did I mention he’s really, realllly good looking?

7. Flea Bag in Normandy: Several stylish ladies in the office carry Fleabags and I’ve always admired the bags for their vintage frame and perfect not-too-big size. This one comes in a utilitarian surplus wool Italian army blanket with leather trim that could easily take you from winter to spring. I’m not one for trendy bags and this one is classic and useful enough to last years. The best part is it’s also on sale! Get it here.

8. Cookout: Sometimes you just need a cheeseburger and milkshake, and this place is my standard when I need a fast and cheap fix. You can find the chain only in a few select states south of the Mason-Dixon which has given it a cult-like fame. Dare I say it’s better than In-n-Out? Yeah, I said it. They also have 46(!) milkshake flavors. Try the peanut butter banana.

9. Patrik Ervell shirt: A collared shirt fetish has swept the Need office like wild fire, and this one is a favorite. 100% silk with super authentic men’s styling, this is a solid addition to any woman’s wardrobe. Fresh and clean navy + white is always a winning combination. Get it here.

10. Dolce Vita Jax: The fashion bloggers favorite finally hits the site this week in soft, summery, taupe suede. This classic ankle boot will look just as good with winter tights as it will tan legs come summer. The signature zipper tassel gives it extra sass appeal and the heel height is un-intimidating enough for everyday. Get yours here.

First of all, if you’re from Richmond, you’ve got to admit the fact that Baltimore’s Future Islands played at The Camel is awesome. Samuel Herring’s voice and energy sounds like it could literally be heard all the way from Baltimore. He’s got more character than a Disney movie and a tone that sounds like it could be from a video game. Along with Gerrit Welmers, William Cashion, and the heat from the crowd, The Camel felt like a sauna tonight. Their next two shows will be held in their home state of North Carolina and then head further down south. If you can get the chance to check them out, it’s worth your time.

Photos by Miles Quillen and Brian McDaniel.

Checking Thrasher Magazine at least once a day should be a requirement for anyone with a soul. Whether you skate or not, the current state of the industry is beyond real and it’s certainly worth keeping an eye on. One relatively new team to watch is the Converse team. They recently just took a trip to Germany & Italy to skate some of Europe’s finest terrain. Click on for a nice little video from a company that’s actually focused toward skating.

If you’re not a fan of this cold, do your self a favor and go rent the 1984 movie, Hot Dog, where you’ll quickly realize that there’s plenty of fun to be had in the snow. Better yet, grab a bunch of your friends and go rent a cabin in Tahoe (your local ski resort will do too). It’s movies like this that let you realize just how good a little bit of snow and a hot tub can be. It’s also no that bad for some fashion tips.

Watch the 1984 trailer here.