::chic to be::

Jack & Lulu

2011-06-07T10:26:00.000-07:00

I have never considered myself easily starstruck. As a matter of fact, I would find it difficult to name even one celebrity that I would fall over myself to meet in person. And I watch a lot of television :) Having the honor of meeting Jack and Lulu's Designer, Julie Murphy, at last month's Stationery show in NYC was more than a pleasure. I must admit that shaking the hand of the woman who's designs I have used as a guide for countless items and trend boards over the years made me a little giddy. The Jack and Lulu booth at the National Stationery show was definitely one of 2011's highlights for me. Seriously, pink Westie stationery? Was she reading my mind?!!!

Jack and Lulu

Susy Jack

2011-06-06T08:19:00.000-07:00

I am just now getting around to my notes on highlights from the New York Stationery show last month, which was amazing as always. Anyone that knows me knows my unnatural love of office supplies and Susy Jack delivered again this year. As I had to put away my fabulous calendar from last year (that ended on May 31st) a Susy Jack order is definitely on my priority list!! I also had the pleasure of meeting Susan Connor, the Principal and Designer of this beautiful line and was so thrilled to find that she is just as darling in person as her creations!

Susy Jack Contemporary Paper

Kate Spade NYC

2011-06-06T08:03:00.000-07:00

Kate Spade is the perfect dynamic of simplistic style meets glamour and her New York City Flagship store showcases every inch of this with saturated colors, tissue party goods in the window displays and glittery walls. I thought her lines were impressive but this left me speechless.

katespade

New Favorite Blog

2011-06-05T12:11:00.000-07:00

It is always thrilling to stumble upon a new blog where someone has new insights AND is equally excited about the same things. It validates my passions! Amanda Joy of joy ever after and I are on the same page on all things fabulous. Her insights on design, stationery, palette selections, photography, etc. are all fantastic and put together beautifully in a well organized and easy to read blog. Something tells me we would be very good friends if we lived closer. I wish we were neighbors so I could keep up on her house renovations!

joy ever after

New Favorite Blog

2011-04-11T07:11:00.000-07:00

As if I didn't already love it from the magenta feather header, A Subtle Revelry is an unbelievable find. It is so full of gorgeous imagery and stylish inspiration that it triggers full on Design ADD (which is a good thing).

a subtle revelry

How to Steal like an Artist

2011-04-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

Brilliant notes by writer Austin Kleon.

New Office Wish List

2011-04-09T20:55:00.000-07:00

Color Wheel Print from Made by Girl

With an impending office move, I am dreaming of the endless possibilities that the interior of a Paper Party Company should convey. While I'm in office fantasy land, I am going to go ahead and order the world's most gorgeous office supplies from Russell & Hazel and become a member of Colored pencil of the Month Club. My wish list also includes Pantone Products for everyone, colorful walls, dry erase paint, a color wheel clock and print... even a helium balloon vending machine!!! A girl can dream, right?

Color Wheel clock from Supermarket

Color Wheel print by Made by Girl

Binders and Rhinestone Pencils by Russell & Hazel

Pencil Club at 500 Colored Pencils

Party Goods as Art

2010-10-29T17:27:00.000-07:00

After an inspiring afternoon at the Andy Warhol exhibit, I am blown away by how simple and successful his ideas were. It is said that Mr. Warhol is most famous for blurring the lines between high and low art, between expensive items and affordable everyday goods. His theories are applicable to my line of business in numerous ways... without realizing it, I have been striving to blur the line between home entertaining and high end party planning for years! But isn't that what consumers want? Beautiful and inexpensive things that remind them of what they see on television. At the same time, if an item is designed cleverly, it can be coveted by consumers of all demographics.

Photo shoot chic

2010-10-29T15:38:00.000-07:00

Ban Do has done it again. Not only have they successfully produced the most adorable line of couture headbands to hit the market this century, but their recent photo shoot for Rue Magazine is utterly incredible. The colors, the composition, the models, the setting - everything is so fun. It makes me want to get all my friends together and wear every single accessory we can find. Oh, and I would definitely remember to add confetti and ice cream.

www.shopbando.com
www.ruemag.com

Well said.

2010-10-29T13:52:00.000-07:00

Every now and then I like to get a little philosophical. I do think this is a true statement.

New Favorite Blog

2010-10-04T19:09:00.000-07:00

Not only do I consider myself a connoisseur of beautifully designed things but occasionally I have been known to read and give credit to beautifully written words. I think that wit is a characteristic that signifies intelligence and most of the time it is underutilized by women, either because they have no sense of humor whatsoever or are too silly and shallow to recognize it. Take a moment to read Jaime Wagner Hunt's new blog - her insights on life are not only hilarious but cleverly written.

http://randomlyjamie.blogspot.com

Dallas Shaw

2010-09-23T12:46:00.000-07:00

Dallas Shaw is an inspiring Fashion Illustrator out of Wilmington, DE. I adore Fashion art anyway but these are particularly lovely. Her aesthetic is so tasteful and refreshing... which is not easy to come by.

http://dallasshaw.com

Listen carefully

2010-08-26T08:44:00.001-07:00

An anonymous statement that is beautifully written. It has taken me 30 years and numerous bad decisions to figure this out about myself but it is very accurate.

Today's Favorite Blog

2010-08-01T10:28:00.000-07:00

I'm not necessarily the type of person to throw around the term 'soul mate' loosely but every now and then I come across another blogger and am completely blown away by how many things we have in common... it can't be anything less than fate that I have found Mimi & Meg. I love their sense of style, their taste in fashion, art, color palettes and interiors. Check out their blog immediately!

mimiandmeg.blogspot.com

Beautiful Photography

2010-07-30T11:09:00.000-07:00

Stepdad

2010-07-01T19:29:00.001-07:00

I am one of the lucky few that have parents that are still together and still very much in love. I do believe though, that if given the chance my mother would leave my father for Thom Felicia. Nevermind the obvious differences in sexual preference or age... the man has taste! My Dad is a good guy but please - can you imagine having a partner that can pick wallpaper AND pick palettes the way Thom does? Hypothetically speaking, no one is a match for my father but there could be tremendous advantages to having Thom Felicia as my Stepdad.

Thom Felicia

Today's Favorite Blog

2010-06-22T08:13:00.000-07:00

I stumbled upon a new and completely senssational blog, Ampersand Design Studio. It is creatively organized and full of incredible info. I can't wait to see their shop.

Ampersand Design Studio

Lulu

2010-06-22T08:00:00.001-07:00

I am more than blown away by the illustrations of young German artist, Lulu. Her collages, paintings, and digital work are fluid and gorgeous.

Lulu Plasticpirate

MagScapes

2010-06-22T04:19:00.000-07:00

Did you know there was such a thing as magnetic wallpaper?! I love discovering these brilliant things that I never knew existed but are such great ideas. I haven't decided how I will use it yet - but I will keep it in my back pocket.

Magscapes

Today's Favorite Blog

2010-06-18T13:54:00.000-07:00

Headlined with one of my all time favorite quotes, dress design decor is loaded with fantastic things to browse through; stunning photography, elegant fashion and inspiring interior design. All chosen carefully in a cohesive dreamy style that is nothing short of chic.

Modern Shed

2010-06-17T14:02:00.001-07:00

If you have read my local real estate offerings, 'mini-barns' are noted as a positive asset to the property. It is my opinion that's entirely subjective. Modern Shed is offering not only aesthetically awesome storage space but living space as well. In their concise and clever modular offerings, anyone can build a tastefully customized dwelling. Wouldn't these make fantastic lake houses? I just need lake front property... and a boat.

Modern Shed

Barn Conversions

2010-06-17T11:52:00.001-07:00

Alex Scott Porter; Amagansett NY

Woollacot & Gilmartin; England

Erin Martin; Napa Valley

Buro2; Belgium

Pocknell Studio; Essex, England

Selldorf Architects, Long Island

Adelaide de Meni and Ed Carpenter; East Hampton

I have no explanation for my obsession with barn conversions... they are just so beautiful! I love a great loft or brownstone, but I'm a country girl at heart. When done well, a great barn conversion artfully places contemporary and city based design against a backdrop of corn fields and rolling hills. It doesn't get any better.

All photos are my favorites from Remodelista.com

Walk in my Shoes

2010-06-15T17:56:00.001-07:00

Brian Atwood does it again. Spring Summer 2010? Indescribable.

www.brianatwood.com

Today's favorite blog...

2010-06-14T13:24:00.000-07:00

My summer resolution to is to be better at posting when I discover a new fabulous blog. I should share with the world what I find so inspiring! But aside from being drawn to it for obvious reasons (you had me at tall, blond and pink) these girls have some fantastic resources.

http://www.twotallblondes.blogspot.com/

Party Goods as Art

2010-06-09T10:43:00.001-07:00

Its not my clock, I swear

2010-06-08T13:15:00.001-07:00

Although one could make a compelling argument that I am drawn to adorable children's products because my maternal instincts are slowly kicking in but I beg to differ. I just have an appreciation for well designed products for kids and seeing how I was one, I can see the appeal of any item that hints at adulthood in an endearing way. These swimsuits from Dagmar Daley could not be any more darling, which speaks to all of their clothing - not just their swim collection. Plus, the children in their catalog are beautiful and let's be honest....no one wants to look at ugly kids.

Dagmar Daley

Swing!

2010-06-08T12:59:00.000-07:00

The genius behind Softline's ME & U Swinging chairs is the combination of playground whimsy and the comfort of a loveseat right in your living room. Who doesn't like to swing? No one. This way you can do it AND watch The Hills at the same time....brilliant! Or, wouldn't your kid be the luckiest in the world to have this in a playroom?

Softline

Shower heads

2010-06-01T07:52:00.000-07:00

I recently came across these fantastic showerheads at the Furniture and Lighting show in Manhattan last week. Which color would I choose? Impossible. It makes me wish I had 6 bathrooms.

www.grohe.com

Before

2010-04-17T08:48:00.000-07:00

The after may be a long time in the making... But I finally have the opportunity to put my love of architecture and interior design to work. On May 5th - this will officially be my house. First things first, the green trim must go and I was more than thrilled to have Kim at DesiretoInspire post my house for exterior paint advice. I can't wait to make it mine and I am open to all ideas.

Desire to Inspire

The Tree Pee

2010-04-11T14:25:00.001-07:00

When thinking about my childhood, the word depravity does not come to mind. BUT, things could have been a lot better if I had one of these. The TreePee, an instant tree house/tent. "Its a tent...Its a bouncy castle...Its a swing...Its a trampoline!" And best of all, it comes in pink.

www.treepee.com

Palette Perfect

2010-03-29T04:04:00.000-07:00

I am in love with these artist palette plates available at Bergdorff's. They are so gorgeous! I've washed off about a thousand paint palettes that looked just like this and felt like I was wasting something beautiful every time. I appreciate the fact that someone finally put them to good use.
Richard Ginori

Deck Delusions

2010-03-18T08:53:00.000-07:00

As I embark on the daunting task of moving, I am looking for things in a new home that I do not currently possess. The top of that list is a porch - of any kind. Summer is quickly approaching and I would like nothing more than a cozy place to sit, dine and entertain outside. These are incredible - though WAY out of my price range.

Which cup is mine?

2010-03-18T08:31:00.000-07:00

It seems to be an epic battle at all social gatherings. A hundred cups, one color, one design. Which one was mine? Do I dare drink out of the one I think is mine or pour myself a new one? Solutions range from permanent markers to decal labels or ornate glass tags. So why hasn't anyone just put together an assorted set? These guys did and they are awesome. Subtle brilliance. I love it but am still experiencing that twinge of jealousy that comes from not being able to have thought this one up on my own.

Isn't it ironic?

2010-03-18T08:22:00.001-07:00

Isn't it ironic that I spend my days designing paper goods to be more upscale and the clever folks over at Tortoise are selling upscale goods that look like generic paper. This porcelain tableware collection by Marc Newson was put into production about ten years ago for a Tokyo based furniture company called IDEE. They are slightly pretentious but I get it... the grass is always greener.

Tortoise

Remarkable Rooms

2010-03-18T08:09:00.001-07:00

Eduard Erlikh

2010-02-18T07:30:00.000-08:00

Eduard Erlikh is by far my favorite contemporary fashion illustrator. His work is phenomenal and speaks for itself. I always love flipping through his latest works...the colors, the languid figures, the posh settings. So chic!!

www.erlikh.com

What day is it?

2010-02-17T06:20:00.000-08:00

I stumbled across the most fantastic calendar ever on the M STETSON Design blog. Its an ABR designed Dayboard that allows its user to organize their entire year how they imagine time to be. It is customizable from size, grouping and color. It is beautiful - I just haven't figured out how to purchase one...

www.abrproduccion.com
www.stokkeaustad.com

Blush & Bashful

2010-02-12T06:40:00.001-08:00

In honor of Valentine's Day 2010, I am posting all things pink - my all time favorite color. Valentine's day is so alluring to me - not because of the romanticism but because everything everywhere is drenched in a palette that I have loved since I was little. Candy, cards, cupcakes, cocktails - all in pink! When else is it fashionably acceptable to utilize this color to such extremes after the age of 4?

Beautiful Photography

2010-02-12T06:34:00.001-08:00

United Grey

2010-02-05T08:51:00.000-08:00

The Royal Treatment

2010-02-02T07:45:00.000-08:00

Purple dyes were once a rare commodity - only royalty could afford goods in the precious color. This season - purple is a HUGE trend. All shades from lavender to magenta are on clothes, accessories and stationery. This is why I think it will make the ideal theme color for my friend's upcoming wedding. I think it will be tastefully perfect for an October wedding that is going to be traditional and stylish.

Posh Girl Vintage

2010-01-28T07:23:00.000-08:00

Posh Girl Vintage is an online retailer that offers basically one-of-a-kind vintage apparel from all decades of the twentieth century. I check their dresses from time to time with hopes of someday having an occasion to wear one to. They are fun to look at and reminisce about my grandmother - who owned an extensive costume jewelry collection and grew up in an era where skirts were the dress code for everyday. Most of all these dresses look like they would be fun to wear. They are the kind of outfits that make you feel like a girl.

Posh Girl Vintage

Hermes

2010-01-28T06:56:00.001-08:00

These are sample ads from Hermes latest campaign. I instantly adored the concept of these ethereal beauties. There is a hint of mystical creature (mermaid, nymph, fairy, etc.) but it just alludes to it in a feminine way without being passé. And aren't the colors to die for?

Hermes

Area Ware

2010-01-26T13:38:00.000-08:00

I love any time someone prints a plate with something unexpected on it. These artist palette plates by Area Ware are great and familiar.

Area Ware

Looks Good To Me

2010-01-26T13:28:00.000-08:00

These fantastic watercolor prints were created by Caroline on the It Looks Good To Me website. This is an incredible discovery for me since I not only adore the water color illustrations on her blog but her insights and links are great too. I plan to make it one of my new daily stops.

www.itlooksgoodtome.com

Bling Escape

2010-01-22T07:03:00.000-08:00

I always adore chunky jewelry and anything with rhinestones. Necklaces of 2010 seem to be getting bigger, chunkier and sparklier... which tempts me to go bankrupt adding to my already ridiculous accessory collection. These gems are by Elva Fields and it would be difficult to pick which one of her genius designs would be my favorite.

Elva Fields

What a view!

2010-01-20T13:41:00.000-08:00

Spectacular Spaces

2010-01-18T13:34:00.000-08:00

Black Walls

2010-01-05T13:37:00.000-08:00

When someone finally lets me design their house, I am definitely going to paint some walls black. Fair warning: I think these are fantastic!

Carolina Melis

2010-01-05T13:02:00.000-08:00

www.carolinamelis.com

5 Minute Candle

2010-01-04T07:21:00.000-08:00

How adorable would it be to keep a set of these on hand for last minute celebrations? Everyone likes to blow out the candles and with these matchbook sized candle sets from Poketo, anyone can make a wish for any occasion. Cleverly designed and packaged, I was instantly drawn to them and cannot wait to order a few sets.

http://poketo.com

Heading towards 2010

2010-01-01T14:14:00.000-08:00

Irvington-based millinery designer, Meagan Swinney was gracious enough to share complimentary samples of her Spring 2010 headband line at last night's New Year's Eve bash. The pieces are versatile, displaying a thoughtful palette and fun textures. As you could see, they went over incredibly well!

Caroline Benech

2009-12-29T09:51:00.001-08:00

Caroline Benech is a French artist that does these stunning skylines and nudes in a combination of photography and digital graphics. They are so unique in their composition and palettes, they seem to glow.

Caroline Benech

Bison Entertaining

2009-12-29T09:35:00.000-08:00

Bison Entertaining is a small Australian ceramics company that has put a contemporary twist on Fiestaware. The colors are so subtle and yet make a bold statement of cozy elegance. Everything seems to be thought out, from their store layout to their packaging. It is a cohesive story that is read very clearly. I found the store on decor8 - thanks to the trend genius of Holly Becker.

decor8
Bison Entertaining

Luca & Tino are famous

2009-12-29T09:15:00.000-08:00

Lanvin Paris always does dramatic advertising, even their store windows. Of course I was personally invested in the brilliance of this particular one...

Lanvin

Again with the white

2009-12-17T05:29:00.000-08:00

I know, I know. My palette choices get to be redundant... I can't help it. There is something so chic and cozy about these warm white rooms. I'm wondering though, would I have to invest in stockloads of stain remover? Or would it be like that party on Sex and the City where the hostess refused to serve anything brown or red?

More Party Goods as Art

2009-12-17T05:26:00.001-08:00

Its always great to be inspired by inexpensive paper goods styled in a lavish manner. I have never seen honeycombs or balloons look so posh.

Roman Holiday

2009-12-05T16:41:00.000-08:00

City Studios

2009-12-05T16:37:00.001-08:00

I had the privilege of designing the logo for Cincinnati based architectural firm, City Studios. Set in a darling office space in Over the Rhine, City Studios has numerous projects in the works that I am extremely excited to see completed!

www.citystudiosarch.com

Fun House

2009-12-04T06:00:00.000-08:00

How fun would it be to have any of these charming little playground ideas incorporated into your home? I'm thinking you better be ready to have all the neighborhood kids over.

Something Blue

2009-12-02T14:17:00.001-08:00

A friend of mine is getting married in a blue Monique Lhuillier dress. I instinctively began thinking about the endless shoe and accessory options that await her. I have made it a personal (and unsolicited) mission to unearth some really dazzling and unique fashion finds for the colorful bride-to-be.

Headbands by ban.do

shopbando.com

Walk in my shoes

2009-11-12T05:38:00.001-08:00

I am not entirely sure why I haven't come across Brian Atwood yet because his shoes are FABULOUS!!! And in my favorite palette....

www.brianatwood.com

Happy Halloween

2009-10-30T08:38:00.000-07:00

Marcy the Monkey

Roy the Rooster

Tristen the Seal

Kit the Cat

I thought Halloween was the perfect occasion to showcase these adorable licensed creatures. I am unable to find who is the original illustrator or creator but the line is available on numerous goods worldwide. This is not a style that I am typically drawn to but there is something so fantastic about morbidity at its cutest. Its different and interesting.

http://skelanimals.com

My hero wears designer jeans

2009-10-30T07:50:00.000-07:00

Some peoples' heroes wear capes or some type of football jersey. I have recently come to realize that my hero can typically be seen wearing expensive jeans and a blazer. Jeff Lewis is a California-based real estate developer and star of Bravo's "Flipping Out'. I am consistently impressed with all of his homes and I give him credit for my inspiration of one day owning a home that is sophisticatedly named. I call him my hero because anyone that is well versed in so many different aspects of real estate, from the construction to interior design is nothing short of genius. Mr. Lewis seems to have no niche specialization because his areas of expertise are extensive. His taste is impeccable and his sense of humor is hysterical. If only I could afford him.

www.jefflewisdesign.com

My heart skipped a beat

2009-10-14T08:09:00.000-07:00

Its no secret that I am a sucker for fantastic packaging but Elizabeth Linde's design for Whisht Fragrance is exceptional. 'Whisht' is named for the moment in time when the heart skips a beat. There are so many banal names for perfumes these days, fragrance marketing is almost always a horrific cliche. Whisht manages to communicate the same essence of attraction and butterflies that others' wish to portray and never achieve. The physical packaging also echoes the idea of heart in a way that is not charm bracelet cheesy, but elegant and quiet.... like a heartbeat.

Elizabeth Linde

Come to my window

2009-10-08T07:59:00.000-07:00

Gwyneth Sutherlin

2009-10-08T07:43:00.000-07:00

Gwyneth Sutherlin is an abstract artist based out of Indianapolis, Indiana. Gwyneth's paintings are very in tune with her personality - soft spoken but incredibly expressive.
http://gwynethsutherlin.com/

Taylor Ann Smith

2009-10-08T07:01:00.001-07:00

Taylor Ann Smith is an Indiana artist that has traveled the world and landed here in the Midwest. Her work is consistently transforming with the influence of her travels and experiences and yet she manages to maintain a style that is exclusively her own.

abstractmodern.com

I need a tall date

2009-10-08T06:45:00.000-07:00

Hot Pink? Gray? Python? Croc? Are you kidding me? Christian Louboutin must've been reading my mind when these were designed... all my favorites in one place is a dream come true. If only I had won the lottery on Saturday, I could afford them. Would I wear 12cm shoes? Absolutely. BTW that is just short of 5in for the metrically challenged... putting me personally at over 6'2". I am definitely going to need a tall date. AND valet.

www.christianlouboutin.com

Sassy Sparkling

2009-09-11T12:16:00.000-07:00

Australian Design Group Public Creative designed this splendid label Capel Vale Winery's Sassy Sparkling Brut. It is simply splendid.

Firefly

2009-09-04T10:34:00.001-07:00

The Firefly is a little LED gadget that turns your water bottle into a lantern. I am always on the lookout for clever inventions and this one even has a switch for night light or reading light. Love it!!

Happy Birthday Barbie

2009-09-04T10:06:00.000-07:00

Christian Leboutin was commissioned by Mattel to create these pink pumps.

A Collaboration between Barbie and Bulgari: Bulgari celebrating 125 yrs

Doll-ightful Sweets by Dylan's Candy Bar

Fashion Illustrations available at Pottery Barn Kids

Two of my favorites from my personal collection.

This year marked the 50th anniversary of Barbie. In celebration of her birthday, Jonathon Adler designed a full scale Malibu mansion in honor of her Dream House. I, of course, think this is brilliant. She celebrated her 50th globally with numerous corporations participating in specialized merchandise, including Pottery Barn Kids and Dylan's Candy Bar.

Although Barbie has numerous critics, I am definitely not one of them. I LOVE Barbie. I say that in present tense because my love for her as a child has never diminished. I find her to be an icon - she is both beautiful and an inspiration.

http://www.barbiemedia.com

Ocean's Edge

2009-08-31T07:37:00.000-07:00

Maine has always been on my destination wish list but this particular Hotel would be a dream come true... Lobster? yes. Infinity Pool? check. Wine by the fireplace? yep. Cute and Cozy decor? adorable. Unbelievable scenery? of course. What more can you ask for?

The Inn at Ocean's Edge

Elena Kalis

2009-08-28T11:11:00.000-07:00

I grew up with a pool in the backyard and snorkeling on vacations with my father. Fear of anything involving water was never an option. The work of Bahamian artist Elena Kalis is fiercely reminiscent of my childhood, I can almost hear the peace and silence that only comes from being totally immersed. Elena's work is bizarre in a languid and beautiful manner. Though it touches me on a personal level, (seeing how I have hosted numerous underwater tea parties myself) the light and color seems that it would have universal appeal.

Elena Kalis

Old Soul, New Heart

2009-08-28T10:46:00.000-07:00

As you know, I am a total sucker for accessories. ESPECIALLY unique ones... I love it when people ask, "OMG, that is so cute! Where did you get it?" These adorable headbands by Old Soul are right up my alley - can't wait to order one, or two...

Old Soul, New Heart

More to a kitchen than cooking

2009-08-27T06:52:00.001-07:00

"I spent my childhood in the kitchen with my mother and the only thing I learned how to do was eat."

I heard this quote once decided that it applies to my philosophy on this particular domestic duty.

Indonesia? Sure.

2009-08-24T10:36:00.001-07:00

I have an affinity for over water bungalows - although I have never had the good fortune to stay in one, I just know I would love it. The Misool Eco Resort in Papua, Indonesia has caught my eye and is now on my wish list of fantastic places to travel...when I win the lottery. I have heard that the water and coral reefs are magical and I am dying to see a seahorse while snorkeling!

Misool Eco Resort

Jill Lin

2009-08-17T06:40:00.001-07:00

Some artists take bizarre to the extreme but in this case Jill Lin is an artist that takes bizarre to the edge of beautiful. I realized that I gasped when I saw some of her pieces, I was so taken with her talent. They are pretty without being saccharine and the layers of depth behind them are obvious. These are four posters from her Embellished Headbands series and are most certainly my favorite of all her work.

Jill Lin

Tiki with taste

2009-08-17T06:29:00.000-07:00

Brian from Geradot & Co. in Indianapolis actually made these brilliant tiki torches and has a 'how to' blog on his site. They would be so great for summer parties or just dinner on the porch.

Recycled Bottle Torch
Gerardot & Co.

She Always Wore the Best Shoes

2009-08-13T09:45:00.000-07:00

These are really fantastic prints of oil paintings from the Janet Hill Studio on Etsy.

Janet Hill Studio

Big Blooms

2009-08-12T07:48:00.001-07:00

The only reason I do not own one of these fabulous flower corsages from Emersonmade is because they are so awesome that they are sold out! I can't wait to get my hands on one AND wear it with a white T-shirt. I only hope to have a photograph of it so that in 20 years I can look at it and say, "what were you thinking?".

http://www.emersonmade.com/

beautiful photography

2009-08-12T05:59:00.000-07:00

Dress, Design & Decor is my new favorite blog

No one was prettier than Brigitte Bardot.

Honestly - who doesn't love Sophia Lauren?

I just like this photo - everything about it.

Kate Long Stevenson

2009-08-10T12:31:00.001-07:00

Kate Long Stevenson

Sally King Benedict

2009-08-10T12:17:00.001-07:00

I was instantly drawn to these pieces by Sally King Benedict, a young Southern artist, because of the small pink accents. But what keeps my attention is that they are almost passive aggressively 'punk'... like graffiti for the sorority girl at heart. Soft and subtle with a lot of style and a hint of chaos - I suppose this could only be created by a true Southern Belle.

Sally King Benedict

Dreamy Decor

2009-08-07T06:44:00.000-07:00

Some say that white is unimaginative but I disagree. I love white - to decorate, to design and to wear. I think it communicates class and depending on how it has been done it can be harsh and sanitary or dreamy and cozy. It is versatile and overwhelming. But my black cats are going to be so pissed when I shave them...

Wishing pools

2009-08-05T12:58:00.000-07:00

My office is sweltering today - which might account for my longing to take an afternoon swim. I realize that 'olympic size' seems to be a selling point for all pools but I adore these quaint courtyard pools. I haven't had the need to swim 50 meters at a time in awhile - just a dip will do. Well, a dip with cute little seats around the edges. And turquoise Italian tile. And not too much shade. And it needs to be heated...

Tall Tales

2009-08-05T06:36:00.001-07:00

Growing up in Indiana, I have seen enough tacky whitetail deer art to fill a lifetime. But the design system for Gander Mountain's new restaurant 'Tall Tales' is different. This design encompasses the majesty of 'big game' by combining it with tasteful typography and beautiful illustrations. Plus the name itself is like an inside joke and I love any design with wit and humor, especially if it is well done and not in-your-face obvious. Being subtle is underrated these days and the fact that this is not reminiscent of a Cabela's catalog is definitely a good thing.

Stop Haunt Me Everyday

2009-07-31T13:39:00.000-07:00

As a designer, it is in my nature to dissect pieces of artwork. Even though I might be incapable talent wise - I want to know how it was completed, what medium, what program, what process. I think part of my fascination with these pieces by Indonesian artist Tony Ariawan is that for the life of me I cannot figure out how the f*** he did it. It is a mystery.

Tony Ariawan

Yulia Brodskaya

2009-07-31T13:34:00.000-07:00

These rolled paper collages by Yulia Brodskaya are nothing short of phenomenal.

http://www.artyulia.com/

Wish List

2009-07-31T06:31:00.000-07:00

I've decided to start my Christmas list. I have no magenta or snakeskin shoes and I think I need them.

Jimmy Choo

the Agony and the Ecstasy

2009-07-30T07:57:00.001-07:00

No this is not a photograph or screen shot. It is an unbelievably beautiful painting of the unbelievably beautiful Audrey Horne from Twin Peaks by Jack C Gregory. I am drawn to this particular piece of work, although I am still awaiting a version of Miss Piggy done with this much class and attention to detail - maybe in Versace? A fedora and round little Manolo Blahniks? Just a suggestion.

If you haven't read his blog - you should. Full of art and witty repartee... everything I like to start my day with. (None of that current events/ news stuff).

The Agony & the Ecstasy

WHat's Fifi up to?

2009-07-24T06:40:00.001-07:00

Bill Donovan

2009-07-24T06:28:00.001-07:00

I am simply in awe of these Bill Donovan Fashion Illustrations. And the Mermaid.... what can I say? It is the quintessential symbol of the 'girly girl'. I adore mermaids and one that is fishing couture shoes - takes the cake!! Where do I get my hands on a print?

Bill Donovan

Bottle Design

2009-07-20T08:58:00.000-07:00

I found these gorgeous bottles of Milagro Select Barrel Reserve Tequila on The Dieline this morning. I am a sucker for beautiful packaging anyway, especially bottles. But these with the blown glass inside that reference Agave plants (one of my personal favorites) is especially intriguing. I also adore the new special edition Evian bottle by Paul Smith - so beautiful. The honey bottle is splendid in more than one way and I always love a beautiful wine bottle. I wish I had more storage space to collect them!!

Milagro

nada

2009-07-20T07:48:00.000-07:00

Last week I had the pleasure of dining alfresco at a trendy Mexican restaurant on the corner of 6th and Walnut in downtown Cincinnati, Ohio. Everything about the place is pretty fantastic - the food, the decor, the plant life, the lighting. I would highly recommend it for any meal, although it looks like a great place for cocktails. I can't wait to go back!

www.eatdrinknada.com

Tea Time!

2009-07-14T12:12:00.001-07:00

How darling are these fifties inspired tea dresses? They look like the kind that you should sway in - not walk and I like anything that is fun to wear and makes you feel pretty!

SohoMode

Focus Line Art

2009-07-14T12:03:00.000-07:00

Focus Line Art by Tracy Melton on Etsy is incredibly unique. I would doubt that the photos have the resolution to do the actual texture justice. What she has done is take dead elm wood and painted the rings with layers of acrylic paint to accentuate their natural rings.

Focus Line Art

Dust bunnies beware

2009-07-14T11:45:00.000-07:00

Ok, I'll admit it...It is less likely that I was actually royalty in a previous life and something more of a drag queen. Nonetheless, it would explain my love of feathers and fur and everything gawdy and girly. This feather duster by Cox & Cox being no exception. So adorable, it might inspire extra housekeeping. (or a french maid outfit?)

Cox & Cox

Hara Donuts

2009-07-13T12:11:00.001-07:00

Hara Donuts combines several of my favorite things: donuts, cute little restaurants and great design - both graphic and interior. It would be in my nature to go to Japan and eat donuts. Although disappointing to some, a quest around the world - not for fantastic sushi but for fried pastries seems justifiable.

Hara Donuts

Frazier & Wing

2009-07-13T12:02:00.000-07:00

Again, with the party goods. But these are actually saleable - not just pretty pictures.

Frazier & Wing