Archive for April, 2009

In the Trenches

Monday, April 30th, 2012

I’m a firm believer in investing in classic pieces and a trench coat is one of those items that no closet should be without. I’ve had a classic beige version for years (truthfully it’s seen better days) but J.Crew’s cherry red matinee trench has caught my eye in a serious way. I love my umbrella, but sometimes it’s a bit overkill for a light sprinkle which is why I love that the matinee has a hood. I better pull the trigger before this beauty sells out!

This and That

Tuesday, April 24th, 2012

Who knew black and blue could be such a chic color combination? Wear this tribal stripe scarf and decorate with this blue arrows tray. You can have both for under $65, quite the bargain!

My Weekend in Photos

Monday, April 23rd, 2012

I was Instagramming up a storm this weekend and thought I’d share a few shots..

My family was in town to celebrate my sister’s birthday and a celebratory dinner was just the occasion I needed to trot out my new Kenneth Jay Lane necklace.

We strolled around Eastern Market and enjoyed the beautiful weather on Saturday.

I picked up a bunch of hydrangeas to fill my favorite tortoise glass vase.

It poured all day on Sunday but my Scalamandre umbrella made it a little bit more cheerful. My dad was even a fan of the zebras!

Monday’s are always a little bit harder after a particularly great weekend. Don’t you agree?

Blushing

Thursday, April 19th, 2012

Mata Hari

Gaiety

Desire

I’ve been a card carrying member of the Nars Orgasm cult for years but lately have been craving a change. With spring in full swing I find myself drawn to vibrant pink hues that will hopefully give me that youthful dewy glow. Hanna listed Gaiety as one of her staples on A Piece of Toast, and Mata Hari looked pretty fab on Jess, but Desire also looks like it has potential. Decisions, decisions. Looks like I’m going to be spending some quality time at Sephora after work today. What’s your go-to blush?

Art Lesson: Danielle Kroll

Monday, April 16th, 2012

Danielle Kroll is taking fashion blogging up a notch and I’m loving the direction she’s going! On her eponymous blog the talented graphic designer and illustrator posts the most adorable renditions of her daily outfits. My personal favorite is the “relaxing-by-the-pool outfit” she sported during a birthday weekend in Palm Springs. The striped bikini top and heart shaped glasses are retro glam at its finest!

In Pursuit

Friday, April 13th, 2012

Top row: one | two | three
Bottom row: one| two | three

Remember this dress that I included in an In Pursuit a few weeks ago? Well, I pulled the trigger on that pretty lady and am now on the hunt for some jewels to dress her up with. I’m leaning towards turquoise because I just can’t get enough of it. Here are a few options I’ve rounded up. Do you have a favorite?

All I Do is Pin, Pin, Pin

Thursday, April 12th, 2012

If you need me, you can find me on pinterest obsessively curating my boards. Who are your favorite pinners I need to be following? Are you all as addicted as I am?

Meet Candace by Lesley Evers

Tuesday, April 10th, 2012

Recently the Lesley Evers team offered me the opportunity to review a dress from their spring/summer line. Having loved the Lesley Evers dresses I’ve reviewed in the past (see here and here) I of course jumped at the offer.

This time around, I chose the Candace in Lilac Links. A classic shift dress in a punchy print that is just my style. Though the weather in DC has been a bit touch and go, I was able to take Candace for a spin a few weeks back and received quite a few compliments. For work I paired her with a white cardigan and nude Me Too flats. After work I ditched the cardigan and moved straight on to happy hour–gotta love a dress that multitasks!

If you’re new to the Lesley Evers brand, take a peek at their website, you won’t be disappointed! Lesley’s traditional styles updated in modern prints are the perfect mix of classic and chic.

P.S a big thank you to the team at Lesley Evers it’s always a pleasure working with you!

Hidden Gem: Echo

Monday, April 9th, 2012

sundial scarf | zebra wrap | twin tigers scarf | coverup

I’m always on the look out for brands that satisfy my obsession with color and pattern: enter Echo. I recently stumbled across their site and was like a kid in a candy store– every new page I clicked on resulted in another item added to my shopping cart. Being the good steward of style I like to think of myself as, I just had to share.  Would you believe that all of the above finds ring in at less than $100? After the pup’s unexpected (read: costly) surgery last week, that’s definitely a price point I can get behind!

P.S though this may read like a paid advertisement I was not compensated by Echo in any way. I’m just really loving their brand!

Puppy Love

Tuesday, April 3rd, 2012

photos via

The past week has been a rough one. Between work craziness and a sick pup that needed emergency surgery, things got a little overwhelming. This week, I’m thankful to have a pup that’s on the mend (cone of shame included) and am focusing on getting re-organized and tackling my to-do list one step at a time.

Since I’ve had dogs on the brain, I thought it was only appropriate to re-visit some photos from Dogs in Vogue: A Century of Canine Chic which I’ve posted about before. I would love to re-create that first photo but with a pile of golden retriever puppies– yes, I am a crazy dog person!

Let Me Entertain You

Wednesday, April 20th, 2011

With Easter this Sunday, and Mother’s Day right around the corner, there are plenty of opportunities to break out your favorite china, pick up some flowers from the market and set a gorgeous table. I’m feeling inspired by this orange and pink beauty designed by Anne Hepfer via House&Home. The fabric is Manuel Canovas’ Bengale Toile which just so happens to be the same fabric I used in the project featured in this  sneak peek. As beautiful as this table is I’m not sure I’d be able to use my beloved Bengale Toile as a tablecloth- I’d probably cry if it were stained!

Will you be doing any entertaining in the next few weeks?

Vibrantly Vivier

Tuesday, April 19th, 2011

Meet the latest addition to my wish list: Clare Vivier’s La Pochette. The pop of neon is so on trend and perfect for spring. Unsurprisingly, the hot pink is my personal favorite. I can already envision how perfect it would be with a little white dress and gold gladiators. To borrow Kate Spade’s mantra, live colorfully!

Lesley Evers Giveaway Winner+Discount

Friday, April 15th, 2011

Thanks so much for the overwhelming response to the Lesley Evers giveaway and I apologize for keeping you in suspense. The lucky winner via Random.org is #97, LindsB of Everything LEB! Lindsay is a recent newlywed so we’ll consider this a belated wedding gift care of Lesley Evers! Lindsay, just shoot me an email with your size and shipping info and your Sophie dress in Strawberry Tumbleweed will be on its way!

For everyone that didn’t win the lovely ladies at Lesley Evers have something up their dress sleeve for you as well. Enter the code “style” at checkout to receive a 25% discount on your order! Hurry though, discount lasts through April, 19!

Thanks again to Lesley Evers and company for the generosity!

Mad about Meg

Wednesday, April 13th, 2011

1|2|3|4

Meg Braff is without question one of my favorite interior designers. Her work is  classic and fresh with a touch of east coast prep and a dash of chinoiserie- always a winning combination in my book. I recently re-visited a House Beautiful interview with Meg and fell in love all over again her master dressing room. You can see how the room transformed from her initial rendering to the finished product in the photos above. The Bob Collins trelliage wallpaper is definitely a scene stealer and one that I’ll be sure to file away for future reference when have a house of our own and can wallpaper!

Kazak Attack

Monday, April 11th, 2011

Picking a favorite fabric might be somewhat akin to Sophie’s Choice for this fabric addict, but lately I cannot get enough of Quadrille’s Kazak. I’m sure that by now you’ve seen this gorgeous tablescape by Eddie Ross featuring the punchy print but this room by Hannah Childs for Connecticut Cottages & Gardens was a new one for me. Amazing, right?!

Giveaway: Lesley Evers Sophie Dress!

Thursday, April 7th, 2011

I’m very excited to announce a generous giveaway from Lesley Evers! I’ve posted about Lesley’s gorgeous dresses before and almost always receive compliments when I’m wearing one of the two styles I own.  Today you’ll have a chance to win the Sophie dress in a print of your choice. I’m in love with the classic style and even more obsessed with the graphic prints.

Here’s how to win:

- Leave a comment on this post saying which print you’d choose if you won. (I know it’s hard to pick a favorite!)

-For an extra entry become a fan of Lesley Evers and The Pursuit of Style on Facebook.

The lucky winner will be announced next Thursday, April 14th. Good luck!

 

Jennifer Miller Gems

Wednesday, April 6th, 2011


I have black tie event to attend that is quickly approaching and unfortunately my search for the perfect dress has yielded less than promising results. It seems as though I have an uncanny knack for honing in on stunning dresses which fall into the hopelessly aspirational category. Case in point: this Issa number which I’d snap up in an instant if price were no object. I may be striking out on the dress, but I think I’d hit it out of the park with either pair of these gorgeous Jennifer Miller earrings. Currently I’m leaning towards the emerald but think that the turquoise could be an equally striking alternative (and quite the departure from the sea of pearl/diamond studs that are guaranteed to be on display here in DC.)

I’d love to hear your opinions, which would you choose?

A Perfect Pairing

Tuesday, April 5th, 2011

I recently came across the most beautiful magenta linen fabric (pictured above) and couldn’t resist buying several yards of it even though I had no real plans on where or how it would be used. The vividness of the color was just so alluring to me I knew it would be a mistake if I passed it up. Several days later I revisited a favorite Cy Twombly painting in my inspiration files and immediately knew why I was so attracted to the magenta fabric– they’re a perfect pair! Wherever this fabric ends up I think I’ll take a cue from Cy and mix in some pinks and Hermes orange for good measure.

Monday Reminders

Monday, April 4th, 2011

You are Beautiful Print | Rarely Eye Chart | Love Print

When I first saw this photo featuring Chelsea of Sugar Paper in the latest issue of Matchbook Magazine,  I immediately knew I had to have their A Good Reminder Print for my desk at work. Isn’t it the perfect sentiment to keep close by during the work day? Since it’s Monday and I’m sure we could all use a little inspiration/friendly reminders to get us going, I’ve pulled together a few more typograhpic favorites.  I’m loving all the unique fonts!

Summer Uniforms

Friday, April 30th, 2010




I would be deliriously happy if I could dress myself exclusively in these outfits from Calypso’s Summer Lookbook: Lived in Luxe. I’m definitely taking notes for my summer wardrobe: gauzy tops, rolled shorts, tribal prints, straw accessories and tousled hair….
Looks like perfection to me!
P.S I apologize for my lack of comments recently, life has been a little crazy with the move.
I am reading (and loving) your posts though!

Happy Birthday!

Friday, April 30th, 2010
A year ago today I started this little blog as an outlet for my love of fashion, design, decor and just about everything in between. S&S has definitely evolved over the past year, just as I have. There was a time when I was feeling particularly uninspired and almost shut down for good–I’m glad I didn’t!

A big thanks to followers new and old (I still can’t believe there are over 300 of you now!!) I love reading your comments, getting your feedback and reading your own blogs.


I hope S&S continues to to entertain you and maybe even give you a little escape from the work day. We all need a little procrastination every once in awhile!

kate spade

If there was to be a real life S&S b-day party you can bet this sequined zebra pinata would be there!


My question for you is, is there anything you’d like to see more of/less of on S&S in the next year? I’d love to hear your suggestions!

Lust v. Love: Ikat Dresses

Thursday, April 29th, 2010
After yesterday’s post on ikat for your kitchen, Fallon from A Lovely Being (visit her blog, it’s amazing!!) commented that she was searching for a cute ikat dress. Always up for a challenge of the online shopping variety, I did a little hunting. Here’s what I found…
Lust:

Gucci $4,700
DVF $345.00
Love:
ASOS $109.91

Warehouse $62.00
Tilly’s $38.99

Lulus $52.00

Forever 21 $14.50

Forever 21 $22.80
Forever 21 $16.90
I tried to find a variety of price points so that there’s something for everyone.
Hope you found one you like Fallon!

Ikat for Your Kitchen

Wednesday, April 28th, 2010

These ikat tea towels and oven mitts from Pomegranate, Inc. were too great not to share! The pink/red combo is my favorite but they also have a green/blue and turquoise/red. At only $14.00 and $18.00/pair respectively, these would make excellent gifts for a stylish hostess!

Little Luxuries

Wednesday, April 28th, 2010

I’ve been craving a little luxury in my life lately since most of my time has been spent covered in paint splatters. A new perfume would do the trick, don’t you think? I’ve always wanted one of the delicious scents from Bond No. 9 and after picking up a sample of their newest fragrance, High Line, I’m officially obsessed. If a new perfume isn’t in the cards, I could be persuaded to settle for this gorgeous Park Ave. candle. It certainly would help get rid of the terrible paint fumes! Have you treated yourself to a little indulgence lately? We deserve it, right?!

Sneak Peek #2

Tuesday, April 27th, 2010
Here’s a little sneak peek at some of the inspiration for our new kitchen.

NY Mag

Domestikated Life

Domestikated Life

Notice a trend? This was actually the bf’s idea. I was shocked he wanted to use such a bold color but I have to admit, I’m not upset!

Clare Owen Illustration

Tuesday, April 27th, 2010
Today, I wanted to share the incredibly adorable illustrations of UK based artist Clare Owen. I’ve been following her blog for awhile now and am always excited to see a new post because I know it’s going to be something beautiful.
I’ll let her work speak for itself:


She made these little hearts using a potato!



This is the outfit I wish I were wearing today. Those Chanel ballet flats, YES PLEASE!

Deal of the Day

Monday, April 26th, 2010
This zig zag rug is quite possibly the best deal I’ve come across lately and a big thank you goes out to Copy Cat Chic for tracking it down! I’m seriously considering it for under my dining table and soon-to-be yellow chairs . Then I’d really get the Adler look I was going for.
A 5×7 is only $165–total steal right?
I can picture using this rug in so many ways, it’s too great to pass up. Maybe in the bedroom with our new Matouk Newport bedding?

What do you think? Are you still as obsessed with chevron as I am?

Z is for…

Monday, April 26th, 2010



Last night while penning a card to a friend I realized I had completely forgotten how to write the letter “H” in cursive. So much for all those hours practicing the perfect slant in elementary school right? Anyway, a quick google search led me to these adorable alphabet cards by Jan Brett. The alphabet is available in three fonts for free download here. I would love to see someone frame these in a nursery.
Here’s inspiration:


Paris Daydreams

Friday, April 23rd, 2010

Yesterday, uber-talented artist and blog friend, Mariska Meijers, asked for recommendations on what to pack for her trip to Paris. My very selfish first response was ME! My dad is headed to France next week for bike trip à la Lance Armstrong and trust me, I tried to get in on that trip too!

It’s been a few years since I’ve been to Paris, but here are some pieces that would be in my suitcase….

Paris

-A trench coat. Stay dry and stylish in unpredictable April showers.
-A black wrap dress. It packs easily and can be dressed up or down.
-A great purse. This Marc Jacobs stam is a classic.
-A striped tee. I live in mine! I would wear this with a boyfriend blazer sightseeing,
or on the plane to be comfortable but still put together.
-Something floral. This dress is feminine, flirty and on trend for spring!
-A neutral heel. Suitcase space is prime real estate. Save room for souvenirs
by packing a nude heels that will go with everything!
-Scarves. If you want to blend in with the chic locals, pack a few
scarves to add color and pull your outfit together.
-Comfortable flats. Pack your favorite ballet flats to save your tootsies
on long walks down the Champs Élysées.
-Skinny jeans in a dark wash.
-Blouses. Love this bright top from Tucker. Through it on with your skinnys
and you have an outfit made.
-Bold accessories. Pack a statement necklace, cocktail ring or bright clutch to
add a little extra pop to your outfit.

Those are my humble tips. I’m sure Mariska would appreciate your fashion savvy advice as well, what would you pack for a Paris getaway?

As If You Needed Reminding…

Thursday, April 22nd, 2010
Since we’re all trying to be a little more green today, I thought I’d share this cute poster…

You can find one that’s similar at Keep Calm Gallery.


Wouldn’t it be adorable hanging in a kitchen?
Happy Earth Day!

Girl Behind the Blog

Thursday, April 22nd, 2010
Sincerest thanks to Mackenzie from Design Darling for gifting me with the Beautiful Blogger Award! Mackenzie is leading quite the charmed life studying abroad in France right now and if you haven’t visited her blog, head on over, you’re missing out!

I am supposed to share seven things about myself that you may not know. I haven’t talked too much about myself on here so maybe these will be of interest.

1. I have a degree in Political Science and moved to D.C to pursue a career in politics, but my ultimate dream is to own a boutique. I plan on filling it with gorgeous dresses from my favorite designers, Milly, Tibi, Trina Turk and Diane von Furstenberg. Of course I’ll need to throw in some bold accessories for good measure. I’m thinking candy colored necklaces from KEP Designs, gorgeous gems from Kendra Scott and beachy keen beauties from Meg Carter will do the trick!

Untitled

2. I cannot leave the house without a tub of my favorite lip balm: Daily Conditioning Treatment by Blistex. I’m so addicted that if I don’t have something on my lips I feel like they’re burning! Crazy, right?

3. My favorite colors are yellow, pink, and orange.

4. I have a terrible case of wanderlust. I have big travel dreams but sadly not the corresponding budget. My favorite trip to date was sailing throughout the U.S and British Virgin Islands. Future travel aspirations include an African safari and a visit to the Greek Isles.

5. My favorite movie is The Thomas Crown Affair. Pierce Brosnan (in his prime) was my celeb crush!
6. I collect vintage necklaces and cocktail rings. I love having unique statement pieces.

7. Instead of future baby names, I daydream about future puppy names. The second we have more space we plan on getting another pup! Here are some names I have jotted down for future fur babies: Lulabelle, Brooks, Maclean (Mac), Tucker and Savannah.

Hope you enjoyed learning a little bit about me!
I’d like to pass this on to:
Erica @ Moth Design
P.S thank you so much for your kind words about the new condo. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that everything will come together well and it won’t disappoint!
*Also, to Anonymous who asked about our dining table:
We found the table on craigslist and I think paid about $50.00 for it. The seller told us she had bought it at an antique show in Atlanta, Georgia. It used to be black but I painted her a glossy white. I believe it used to have a leaf but the piece is sadly missing.

Not So Mellow Yellow

Wednesday, April 21st, 2010
Since we’ve decided to keep the walls in the new condo primarily neutral, I plan on adding pops of color to keep it interesting. The condo has an open floor plan and I want to make sure that each space is defined. To define the dining area, I’m thinking of painting our chairs a bright yellow.
Here are some images that are inspiring me:



Here are our dining chairs as they are now. They were a craigslist find that we re-painted.

What do you think? Should I go for it?

A Sneak Peek…

Tuesday, April 20th, 2010
Painting is coming along slowly but surely. We’re headed over tonight to get another coat of up. Just thought I’d give y’all a little teaser of what I’m planning for the living room. I’m thinking this pillow from NolaFeather’s etsy shop will be perfect! It incorporates all the gorgeous shades of turquoise I’m hoping to bring into the space. What do you think? Can’t wait to share more!

Bespoke Shoes

Monday, April 19th, 2010
If you have a few hours to get lost in your own creativity, click on over to Shoes of Prey and try your hand at creating a custom pair of shoes. After picking a style, add embellishments like bows or piping, change the heel height/shape, and start choosing from their gorgeous palette of fish skin, snake skin, shiny, patent, suede, soft leather, italian silk or hair. The possibilities are endless!
Here are some examples from their gallery:

Don’t you feel like a kid in a candy store?! Click here to start designing your pair.

A Work in Progress…

Sunday, April 18th, 2010

After an excruciatingly long trip to Home Depot, piles of disinfecting wipes and paint splattered clothes, we’re finally making headway on the new condo. It’s looking so much brighter already. Did I mention the the walls were chocolate brown before?
Can’t wait to share the before and afters!
Hope you’re all enjoying a nice lazy sunday.

A Boston Beauty

Saturday, April 17th, 2010
I’m completely in love with this gorgeous Colonial Revival featured in Boston Home. I know I’m on a blue kick lately, but this home is too perfect not to share!


Loving the Madeline Weinrib rug and french canopy chairs.

Another Weinrib, I’m drooling!

Don’t these anemone fixtures from Robert Abbey cast the most beautiful glow?

This little guy is such a cutie. I’d be jumping for joy if I had an Eames rocker in my room too!

To The Victor Goes the Spoils

Saturday, April 17th, 2010
This elephant tape dispenser from Iomoi has been a permanent fixture on my ‘want list’ for quite some time. I think I might actually enjoy wrapping presents if I it meant I got to use my super stylish tape dispenser!
Knowing the extent of my obsession, you can imagine the jealousy that was incited when my mom texted me this photo:

A vintage brass elephant tape dispenser found at a local thrift store. The coup de grace–she paid $2.00 for it!! I’ve tried to convince her that I cannot live without said tape dispenser proudly displayed on my desk. Understandably, she’s equally smitten with him. Perhaps I can convince her that he would make the perfect housewarming gift for our new condo?
Fingers crossed!

Shot of Sunshine

Friday, April 16th, 2010

In case your day has been a little dreary, here’s a shot of sunshine courtesy of Meg Braff.
Isn’t this vignette perfection? I’m thinking I need a house in Palm Beach to decorate in crazy bright colors that always seem to work in resort locals.

BeeGee for Your Bridesmaids

Thursday, April 15th, 2010





Can’t you just picture a row of bridesmaids holding these gorgeous clutches from BeeGee Bags? I love all the vibrant colors! Thanks to DailyCandy for alerting me to these beauties.
P.S Use the code BGDC for a 30% discount!

Birds of a Feather Flock Together

Thursday, April 15th, 2010


I’m off to a bit of a late start this morning (what else is new), but I wanted to let you know I’ve finally joined the 21st century and created a twitter account for Starfish and Sundresses! If you’d like to follow along you can find me @starfishandsun. Do you tweet? I’d love to follow you as well!

From Lonny to Your Living Room

Wednesday, April 14th, 2010
In my opinion, Michelle Adams is a tastemaker to be watched. Her style is phenomenal and she seems incredibly down to earth. Don’t you just want to be friends with her? I know I do!
If you want to add a little Lonny to your living room check out their etsy store. You can pick up some of the amazing photographs you’ve seen in Michelle’s own apartment.
“Lady Yellow”


“Pepper”


“Tree Hugger”
“Vintage Bike”

Gorgeous right?!

Off to the Races

Tuesday, April 13th, 2010

Next month I’ll be attending my very first horse race. Unsurprisingly, I’m far more concerned with finding the perfect outfit than the horses. J.Mclaughlin’s Gilchrist seems to be the perfect compromise! Horses+dress=equestrian chic!

Feeling the Blues Part 2

Monday, April 12th, 2010
We’re picking up the keys to the new apartment today so decorating is once again on my mind. As I mentioned before, I’m loving the idea of blue for our living room. I like that it can be simultaneously vibrant and calming. Does that make sense? Wouldn’t these Roberta Roller Rabbit curtains be a great pop of color if we keep the walls neutral?

I love the matching throw pillows and they’re so affordable which is a major plus!

I’m sure by now the blog world has been saturated with photos from the new issue of Lonny but I just had to share one of my favorites….
Lonny

Can you tell where I got my Roberta Roller Rabbit inspiration?!
I hope you all had an amazing weekend– I know I was sad to see it end!

Behind the Beauty

Saturday, April 10th, 2010
Have you ever wondered who’s responsible for J. Crew’s insanely gorgeous photography? Well, his name is Daymion Mardel and I have a complete crush. A former First Assistant and Studio Manager to the legendary Richard Avedon, Daymion spent his childhood traveling via Volkswagen bus absorbing Western Europe’s art and culture first hand. How completely cool right?!
Daymion’s work speaks for itself so I’ll just get to the pretty pictures….





Not sure if these two are from Fall 2010 as well but they went straight to the inspiration folder.

LOVE her glasses!



Head on over to Daymion’s blog, Klik Klik Boom, for more swoon-worthy material.

I’ll Take Mine With A Side of Orange

Friday, April 9th, 2010
LA Plates has been on my radar for awhile now for their ridiculously chic melamine plates. If only I could narrow down a pattern/color combo maybe I would have some already–I’ve told you ladies I’m fickle! After a recent perusing of their website, I have a new obsession, the ah-mazing canvas tote above. I’m loving the leather accents and gold monogramming. This bag is like the stylish sister to the always classic LL Bean Boat and Tote. Wouldn’t it be perfect for carrying your laptop, magazines and other travel essentials? With all the travel I’ve been doing lately I’ve been on the look out for the perfect bag to lug my stuff in style!

Reasons to Smile…

Friday, April 9th, 2010


I am SO ready for the weekend! Do you have any special plans? I’m looking forward to taking taking the pup for a long walk along the Potomac, breaking in the new grill, dining al fresco and finally working my way through the stack of mags that I’ve accumulated.

P.S Speaking of mags, I cannot WAIT for the new issue of Lonny to launch this weekend!

Perfection in Stripes

Thursday, April 8th, 2010

How amazing is this bench I found on Amazon.com of all places?
Zebra and nailhead for only $129.00? YES PLEASE!

Feeling the Blues

Thursday, April 8th, 2010
With our move-in date a few days away, I’ve been obsessing about paint colors. I love bright colors but also know that I can be very fickle. My, (or I should say the bf’s), fear is that I’m going to decide on a color I’ll love for about three months and then move on to my latest color du jour and have to completely re-paint.
I’ve thought about painting the wall above our fireplace a bright accent color and leaving the rest of the room neutral. I’m leaning towards a turquoise or robin’s egg blue, but who knows, I could be on to a new color tomorrow!
Here are some images that are inspiring me:

Miles Redd via House Beautiful circa 2001




I think the blue would play nicely off of my two Christian Chaize prints.

And my Dimitri Berea print.

Maybe a pair of these Robert Abbey lamps from CSN would help tie it all together if I end up only doing an accent wall?

And then there’s the question of fabric for my window treatments….. I can tell this is going to be a work in progress for awhile!
I would LOVE to hear your thoughts, comments, suggestions. As you can tell, I’m a little lost!

Kelly Bensimon’s Colorful Home

Wednesday, April 7th, 2010

If you haven’t seen this video of Kelly Bensimon’s New York City apartment take a peek below. It’s kind of crazy, but then again, your home should be a reflection of yourself and Kelly is definitely a little wacky! I’m loving her pink couches and Hermes scarve pillows. Can you believe she just pulled them out of her closet and sewed them up?! Ohh I wish I had some extra Hermes lying around! I think I could do without the horse though…

Add Some Sparkle To Your Life

Tuesday, April 6th, 2010
This Tibi dress makes me want to add a little sparkle to my life.
Wouldn’t a moroccan wedding blanket do just the trick?

via My Marrakesh

I think they’re absolutely stunning. If you want to add a little sparkle you can pick one up for yourself from Table Tonic’s online store.

Secrets from Nana

Sunday, April 4th, 2010
Of all the things I planned to do while I was home for Easter, I was most excited for a trip to the sandal maker with my Nana. For the past forty years she has been visiting the same leather shop and having custom sandals made by its expert craftsmen. The shop is off the beaten path, hidden in an alleyway up a rickety set of stairs in an apartment overlooking the harbor. I’m glad my Nana passed along her secret because I’d never be able to find it otherwise!

Climbing the stairs to the shop.

The unexpected storefront.

The owner, Victor Powell, told us about the runway show Michael Kors commissioned him to make shoes for in 2007. The middle photo is of Nicole Kidman wearing a pair of sandals from The Workshop.

I loved the nautical chart of Cape Cod Bay hanging above his work station.
Here are the different varieties of sandals you can choose from. Victor also makes handbags and belts.
This is the style I chose. My pair will be in a lighter leather though. The strap is made in one continuous piece of leather. You’re able to make the sandals tighter just by pulling on it which I thought was pretty great.
My sister and I fell in love with these handcrafted belt buckles. My favorites are the sailboat, fish, and crab.
Visit The Workshop online for more info and photos of Victor’s amazing work. My sandals will be ready next week and I can’t wait to start breaking them in!
I hope you all had a great holiday weekend!

The Antidote

Friday, April 2nd, 2010



After this weekend I’m sure we’ll all be coming off a pastel candy induced sugar high. I thought I’d share these photos from Hanneli Mustaparta’s blog as an antidote to all that pastel. Doesn’t she just stop you in your tracks? I wish I could pull off Ray Bans as well!

Willpower

Thursday, April 1st, 2010

It took every ounce of my resolve to not buy this Linea Pelle bag on ideeli this morning. Luckily, my train to the airport came just in the nick of time. I was forced to put my computer and credit card away and thus overspending was avoided. Sigh…but she’s so pretty!
I’m headed back to Massachusetts for Easter. I feel like I live in the airport lately with all this traveling!

Welcome!

Thursday, April 30th, 2009
I’ve started this blog to share my love of all things beautiful. I have a slight obsession with dresses and an undying love for the beach. Hence the name “Starfish and Sundreses”. Some of my favorite things include bright colors, ruffles, pearls, fashion, interesting patterns, flowers, traveling, classic wardrobe staples, Audrey Hepburn and a good gin+tonic.