Three local swimwear designers have made it into national magazines recently. Letarte (www.letarteswimwear.com), designed by Lisa Letarte Cabrinha of Maui, has four bikinis in the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue this year. It's the company's ninth year in the issue. By the way, if you happen to be in Pa'ia, don't miss the Letarte flagship boutique. It feels like a family beach house and is stocked with all the suits and cover-ups we crave.

Making her debut in the high-profile SI swimsuit issue is Kailua resident Erika Ireland, designer of Hula-la Swimwear (www.hulagirlswim.com). Her pink crochet cover-up pulls together spring's hottest hue with a charming boho style.

In People magazine, Big Island designer Chris Barreto (www.chrisbarreto.com) has become a trusted source for fashion prognostication. She is quoted reviewing bikinis worn by both Kate Bosworth and Charlize Theron. And, yes, Barreto thinks they chose well.

BEAUTY EVENT AT NEIMAN MARCUS

Spring fashions call for a fresh take on makeup. And while we may not be able to afford a new frock right now, maybe we can swing a pretty pink blush or lipstick. Enter the Neiman Marcus beauty event, an annual ode to all that's new in makeup and skin care. From Feb. 26 through March 8, the upscale retailer will be giving away an exclusive tote bag in pink, turquoise or orange patent, with nine complimentary beauty treats with a purchase of $100 or more in cosmetics and fragrances. Be warned: They often run out of the bags before the end of the event. This year there's also an offer of $100 off if you spend $1,000 or more.

LYNNE O'NEILL BLOGS FROM NYC

Lynne O'Neill may finally have time to catch her breath after directing numerous shows during New York Fashion Week. Among them: Vena Cava, Ports 1961, BCBG, Lorick, Max Azria and Herve Leger. It's not too late to catch her blogs, photos and videos at http://hawaiisfashionforum.honadvblogs.com. She gives us a backstage peek from an insider at Bryant Park.

ON OUR RADAR | JACKS ARE BACK!

Sometimes when we're stressed by the recession, job insecurity, lack of exercise, creative block or whatevahs, it can be beneficial to lose ourselves in something, well, silly. Like playing jacks.

Remember small-kid time, challenging your BFF to fivesies? At The Cottage, a gift boutique in Kailua Square, you'll find Jollie's Jacks at $8.75. What a blast!

Do not leave The Cottage without some homemade fudge — also a great stress buster.