Archive for October, 2009

Halloween at the White House

Friday, October 29th, 2010
I love this candid photo of JFK reviewing Caroline and John Jr.’s Halloween costumes in the oval office. Can you imagine if those were your childhood memories of trick-or-treating? Amazing! What will you be doing for Halloween this year? I’m not feeling too festive this year but I am looking forward to passing out candy on our stoop. Can’t wait to see all the creative costumes!
Have fun and be safe!

Sparkles and Snowflakes

Thursday, October 28th, 2010
Calypso’s holiday collection just launched and I’m absolutely drooling over some of their new arrivals. Golden gloves, a Glamourpuss muff, and the real stunner–that sequin dress! Wouldn’t you just die to wear it to a holiday soiree this winter? If I was feeling daring (I’m a whimp and usually just wear lipgloss), I’d take a cue from the model and pair it with bright red lips. So glam!

Nouveau Navajo

Thursday, October 28th, 2010
The new Lonny blog is one of my daily must-reads. It makes waiting for the next issue that much easier! They recently did a post on the emerging tribal trend which they dubbed “nouveau navajo.” Well, I’m loving it and was inspired to pull together a few pieces of my own.

So perfect for fall, don’t you think?

EmersonMade Traveling Coat

Thursday, October 28th, 2010
In my opinion, Emerson of EmersonMade can do no wrong (have you seen her New Hampshire home?!) Aside from fabric flowers in every color, I’m also coveting one of her new traveling coats. I’m in desperate need of a new fall jacket and these are pure perfection. The only question is big houndstooth or khaki cotton? I’m still holding out for a Burberry trench so I think big houndstooth might be the way to go.

P.S Don’t you think EmersonMade would be perfect for J.Crew’s “In Good Company” partnerships? Emerson could clearly be a model!

Luxury for Little Ones

Wednesday, October 27th, 2010
Did you know Hermes sells coloring books?! Neither did I until I stumbled across this little gem last night while browsing their site for inspiration. At $130 this might be a better gift for your artistic friend than your toddler Matisse in training. Who knows though, maybe this is what Apple and Suri doodle in? Regardless, I think I’ll be saving my pennies for a scarf!

You’re So Vain

Wednesday, October 27th, 2010
My vanity is on Sweetie Pie Pumpkin Noodle today as part of Jackie’s Vanity Week! Although I’m  embarrassed to call my tiny corner of the bureau a vanity I’d love it if you took a peek. A ton of great bloggers are participating and besides, who doesn’t love being a bit nosey?
P.S that’s our new bedroom wall color! What do you think?

Halloween Chic

Wednesday, October 27th, 2010

On Halloween it’s almost a guarantee that you’ll see a dozen girls in black sheaths, gloves, statement necklaces and big sunnies doing their best Audrey in Breakfast at Tiffany’s. The movie is one of my favorites and the scene is certainly iconic but the costume has been a little overdone, don’t you agree? I’d love to see someone re-create one of the scenes above. Still classic but a little more original. You can snag Audrey’s eye mask at Fred Flare. Add a men’s button down, an up-do and you’re ready to go! Chic and simple.

What will you be for Halloween this year? I should probably add that I still don’t have a costume! Such a procrastinator… Maybe I should rush order an eye mask for myself!

House Love

Tuesday, October 26th, 2010

Isn’t it the best feeling when you find a space that you absolutely love? That’s how I felt when I saw Kate Schintzius’ Hollywood home on Design*Sponge this morning. I love how she unabashedly mixes bold colors and prints. Definitely a kindred spirit!
P.S I was also so excited to see that she has a Christian Chaize photo in her guest bedroom. I have two hanging in my living room and love them!

Monkey Business

Tuesday, October 26th, 2010
Iomoi has done it again with their perpetually chic desktop accessories. This little brass monkey is the newest addition to my wish list. Doesn’t he look like he’s wearing a Tory Burch tunic? I think he’d make a perfect partner for my elephant tape dispenser. Now if only I had that new parsons desk to put it all…

Giving Thanks: Roberta Roller Rabbit

Monday, October 25th, 2010
Thanksgiving is right around the corner and I’m feeling inspired by Roberta Roller Rabbit’s delightfully bright table tops.  I just ordered a set of six gin orange napkins and can’t wait to pair them with my Morella Ave dinner plates. Throw in some bright pink taper candles in vintage brass candlesticks and I think we’ve got an equally bright table!

Hydration

Monday, October 25th, 2010
Miles Redd

Nate Berkus

Elle
This weekend, on a whim, I decided it was time to finally tackle one of the last big items on my to-do list–painting our bedroom. With no particular color in mind I spent some serious time with my tear sheets and inspiration folders. The boyfriend’s one request… that it be something that made him feel hydrated. Say what? My thoughts exactly. Here’s what I pulled together for inspiration. What do you think? Not feeling dehydrated I hope!

Shopbop Giveaway Winner!

Monday, October 25th, 2010
Congratulations to Shannon from Sit.Relax.Gossip you are the winner of the $100 shopbop.com gift card! Shoot me an email with your mailing address so you can get to shopping!

Walk With the Animals

Friday, October 22nd, 2010

Etsy is one of my many online addictions and I’m always finding new shops to love. My latest find, The Craft Pantry, sells these adorable eco-chic canvas totes. The elephant is my personal favorite and would be a great way to beat the DC bag tax. Plus, at only $18-$20 you can afford to start your own mini menagerie!

Confetti System and The Selby

Thursday, October 21st, 2010

Could there be anything more fabulous than the amazing office of Confetti System photographed on The Selby?! It must be hard to ever have a bad day when you’re office is perpetually party-ready! I really must come up with some reason to celebrate so I have an excuse to order one of their garlands. Anyone’s birthday coming up?
P.S for even more glittery happiness check out the Confetti System Tumblr.

Calypso Rainbow

Thursday, October 21st, 2010
Isn’t this rainbow of Calypso candles the cutest sight? Candles are one of my go-to gifts and these already come wrapped up in a bow. Perfection! Now, bellini, tangerine, gardenia or mimosa? Hmm..
Do you have a favorite?

Cherry On Top

Thursday, October 21st, 2010

Thanks to Rachel at Vive la Goos for asking me to answer some of these burning questions. Hopefully you won’t find me too boring! If you haven’t checked out her blog, be sure to head on over. She has amazing style and the cutest pair of bunnies you’ve ever seen!


1. Why do you blog? 
I started this little blog as an outlet for my love of all things fashion, design and decor. When you work in politics it’s not terribly often that you can wax on about your love of sequins, Lonny or the latest Quadrille fabrics. That would be a pretty fantastic campaign platform though, wouldn’t it?

2. What are your best memories? 



Bonfires on my best friend’s beach, sailing through the BVI, family vacations to tropical destinations and the day we brought our pup home for the first time.

3. If you had to change your name, what would it be? 

Hmm… Well, in french class my name was always Madeleine.

4. Name five things you couldn’t live without? 
Aside from the obvious (friends, family, my boyfriend and the pup), I’d say: chapstick, fountain diet coke, dresses, my macbook and great bedding (I love to sleep!)

5. Four best books that you have read?

Hard to say the best but favorites include Atlas Shrugged, The Great Gatsby, Catcher in the Rye and Democracy in America.

6. Tell us a unique and interesting fact about yourself.
I’ve started collecting cocktail rings and vintage necklaces. Love my statement jewelry!


7. What do you love best about yourself?
My sense of humor. I’m always laughing!


8. What is the best movie ever made?
The Thomas Crown Affair is my absolute favorite, I’ve probably watched it a hundred times.


9. If you had a Freaky Friday experience who would you change places with and why?





Maybe I could absorb just an ounce of her style…

10. What is the best part about being a woman?



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Dresses and jewelry without a doubt!


11. If you had the chance to go back and change one thing in your life, would you, and what would it be?
I wouldn’t change any of the major events, however, if I could I would hug my papa and tell him I loved him the last time I saw him. 

Glamourpuss

Wednesday, October 20th, 2010
It’s decidedly chilly here in DC and although I’m originally from Massachusetts, I’m a bit of a whimp when it comes to the cold. What I wouldn’t give to have one of these Glamourpuss NYC funnels around my neck today! If only I could decide on a color…
Stay warm my fellow DC ladies!

My Favorite Spot at The Way We Are

Wednesday, October 20th, 2010
I’m happy to announce that the lovely Leah is featuring one of my favorite spots on her blog today! I haven’t shared this space before so I hope you’ll head on over and let me know what you think. Leah is always sharing peeks of her own gorgeous home so stick around for awhile and check them out!

Surf’s Up

Tuesday, October 19th, 2010
If you’re going to be walking the boardwalk in high heels you might as well be carrying a Chanel surfboard right?

Spotted in Garnet Hill

Tuesday, October 19th, 2010
These photos from the latest Garnet Hill catalogue literally stopped me in my tracks. Isn’t she the epitome of glamour? I’m not quite brave enough yet to wear a leopard coat so I’ll have to stick to my shoes and accessories until I work up the courage. These photos will be my inspiration!

Lesley Loves You

Monday, October 18th, 2010
It’s true, the ladies at Lesley Evers do love you! So much so, that they’re offering Starfish&Sundresses readers an exclusive 20% discount off the entire fall line! Such great gals, aren’t they? Since I’m on an orange kick, the Riley dress in Newbury Gold would be my first choice. I think it’d be perfect to wear while hosting my little Thanksgiving feast.  Fitted, but still comfortable enough to have that second piece of apple pie a la mode. And we all know how important that is…
Here’s how to shop:
Use the code “star2promo” for 20% off until Sunday (10/24). 
P.S Become a fan of Lesley Evers on Facebook, if they reach 500 fans by Dec. 12th you could win a gorgeous Tilda dress! 

Purple+Orange

Monday, October 18th, 2010

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Salvatore Ferragamo – Varina Patent Ballet Flats – Saks.com, $440 five points camille, $475 The Hermes Scarf: History & Mystique (9780500515181): Nadine Coleno:…, $60 Elva Fields – Elva
I love unexpected color combinations, don’t you? Inspired by the cover of The Hermes ScarfI’m newly obsessed with deep purples paired with none other than Hermes orange. Perfect for fall. Now if I could just get my hands on everything in this set….



Girlfriends

Friday, October 15th, 2010

Happy Friday! Any exciting plans for the weekend? In a few hours I’ll be hitting the road with one of my girlfriends and heading due south to Raleigh, NC. We’re visiting another close friend from college and I’m already sure that by Sunday we’ll be headed home with sore stomachs from laughing so hard (and maybe all the fried food that’s been promised at the NC State Fair). That’s always the sign of an amazing weekend, right? I’m also hoping to visit Jamie’s store Furbish which I’ve been stalking online for the longest time. Can’t wait!

Hope you all have a great weekend! What will you be doing?

Heavenly Jewelry

Thursday, October 14th, 2010
 
It’s rare that I find a line I can actually envision myself wearing each and every piece. Well, I think I died and went to jewelry heaven because Finn is just that. All of their pieces are simply stunning but the gold band from the Gatsby collection (named after my favorite novel and everything, it must be fate) and the pink sapphire Love Knot ring have sky rocketed to the top of my ultimate wish list.
What do you think, are you a fan?

Gilded Age

Thursday, October 14th, 2010
Blame it on the years I spent as a competitive figure skater, but I’ve always been a bit of a magpie. If it glitters, it’s good and I’ve rarely met a sequin I didn’t like. Thank god they’re back in style so I can wear my sequins proudly without fear of being mistaken for a grandma in Boca! Here’s a round-up of some things that have been catching my eye…
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Amanda Nisbet’s Cheat Sheet

Wednesday, October 13th, 2010
I just had to re-post Amanda Nisbet’s design essentials featured on One King’s Lane because a) she’s one of my favorite interior designers and b) I thought her picks were spot on. Enjoy!
P.S I also have a crush on all the colors/fabrics/wallpaper in her headshot. So gorg!

Starry Nights

Wednesday, October 13th, 2010
 I’m kind of obsessed with this elephant constellation print from Alexander Beeching. If I had a little boy this would definitely be going in his nursery. I know I’m not the only elephant fan out there because the $20 version is already sold out! Good thing babies and nurseries are far from my future because I’d be pretty broken hearted if this couldn’t be part of mine.

Cheers to You!

Wednesday, October 13th, 2010
What a surprise this morning to open blogger and see 504 wonderful followers! I’m shocked at how this little hobby has grown and truly flattered that you enjoy reading. Sincerest thanks for taking time out of your busy days to stop by- your comments really do make me smile everyday! If I could pop open a virtual bottle of Veuve I would, but since I can’t, these whimsical illustrations by Florence Deygas will have to do. I think they’d look perfect framed above a bar cart, don’t you?

Shopbop & Rebecca Minkoff Giveaway!

Tuesday, October 12th, 2010
Thanks so much for all your kind comments about the tragic death of my laptop! I’m glad to know I’m not the only one having a love affair with my mac. As a reward for putting up with this debbie downer, how about a giveaway?!
It’s getting to be close to that time of year when my boyfriend and family start thinking about presents and Shopbop.com is always one of the destinations I suggest. Apparently I’m a bit difficult to shop for (lies ha!) but Shopbop has never led them astray.
This year I’ve got my eye on a Rebecca Minkoff bag and with sections for black bags, oversized bagsbeach bags etc. Shopbop continues to deliver!
 

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So here’s the best part… Shopbop is giving away a $100 giftcard to one lucky reader!!
Want to win? Here’s how:
-Become a follower and visit Shopbop.com
-Let me know what you’d buy in a comment 
Extra entries:
-Tweet about the giveaway (use @starfishandsun)
-Blog about the giveaway and leave the link in a comment
Winner will be announced Friday, October 22nd!

P.S don’t forget to check out the Shopbop designer sale!

Be Back Soon

Monday, October 11th, 2010
Apologies for the lack of post today but I’m having a some minor (okay, major) technical difficulties. Apparently, Macbook Pros aren’t like cats and do not land on all fours when the children you babysit for knock them off the couch and then close the screen on your wireless card. You can find me at the Genius Bar morning the death of my firstborn child and trying to not be bitter that to make $65 I’m now down $1300… When it rains it pours?

Winner Winner…

Friday, October 8th, 2010
Congrats to Heather from Pretty in Pearls. You’ve won the Stylish Laptop Bag from Simply Bags! Shoot me an email with your shipping and monogramming info and your bag will be off to you soon!

Follow Friday: The Prippy Handbook

Friday, October 8th, 2010
This week I had the pleasure meeting “blog friend” turned real-life friend Tara from The Prippy Handbook. We met up for some wine on my stoop and chatted the night away (and they say you shouldn’t meet people you’ve met on the internet ha!) Tara really is one of the sweetest people around and she has a great blog to boot. If you haven’t checked out The Prippy Handbook, be sure to head on over. I’m sure you’ll love Tara’s preppy meets hippy (hence prippy) aesthetic. I’m still obsessing over this Pendleton weekender she recently posted! 

Operation Dollhouse: Lonny Style

Wednesday, October 6th, 2010

The Lonny team recently decorated this Dorothy Draper inspired dollhouse as part of a Curbed challenge and it was too cute not to share. A miniature lucite table, zebra rug, Slim Aarons art, and Rubie Green upholstered chair?! That’s one lucky doll! Be sure to check out the rest of the photos (can I please get a lifesize version of that Capri beach scene?!) and read how Michelle got crafty with flea market finds.

A Peek at My Place: Vintage Nautical Chart

Wednesday, October 6th, 2010
It’s been a long time since I’ve shared any photos from our apartment so I thought I’d share one of my favorite additions (apologies in advance for the poor picture quality–it’s time for a new camera!) Awhile back I scored two vintage nautical charts at an antique store on the Cape for the bargain price of $8! After months of sitting rolled up by our couch I finally got around to framing one in a simple Ikea Ribba frame. I didn’t realize it until I was framing, but this chart actually depicts the harbor my old boarding school is situated on which of course makes me love it even more! I’m also kind of obsessed with my ikat pillow I ordered from this ebay seller. It came straight from Uzbekistan–took forever but well worth it!

Exotic Escape

Tuesday, October 5th, 2010
So maybe I’m not quite as ready for fall as I thought I was because these photos from The Cherry Blossom Girl have me craving an exotic escape already. Don’t her turquoise nails with those shells just kill you? If the temperatures in DC don’t return to tolerable temperatures sometime soon, I just might be forced to pack a bag and book a one way ticket to Tahiti. Who’s coming with me?

Simply-Bags Giveaway!

Monday, October 4th, 2010
What better way to start off a rainy Monday morning than with a giveaway? Thanks to Simply-Bags, one lucky reader will be walking away with one of their Stylish Laptop Bags! I’m loving the chic combination of turquoise and chocolate brown (must remember for future outfits/projects), and of course, I’d never turn down an opportunity to monogram! Traveling is difficult enough, let’s at least keep it easy on the eyes!


Want to win? Here’s how:
-Become a follower and visit Simply-Bags. Come back and comment with your favorite bag.
Overachiever? Here are a few ways to get extra entries:
-Tweet about the giveaway (use @starfishandsun)
-Blog about the giveaway and link to the post in a comment
The winner will be announced on Friday. Good luck!

Sunday Style

Sunday, October 3rd, 2010
I’ll let these images speak for themselves, but I’m officially obsessed with J.Crew’s buffalo check boy shirt. I might need to order two because I’m pretty sure that come December mine will be worn thin! Hope you’re all having a lovely Sunday…I’m savoring the last few hours of my girl’s weekend!

P.S who’s excited for Mad Men?!

Girl’s Weekend

Friday, October 1st, 2010
We’re only a few short hours away from the weekend and I could not be more excited! The boyfriend is out of town so it’s just me and the pup dog holding down the fort. After having house guests for the past three weekends I’m looking forward to a little “me” time. My plans: shop for a few fall items, hit up a local antique store I’ve been meaning to visit, get a pedicure (any fall suggestions?), and see a chick flick. Lofty goals right?
P.S This painting by Libby Black is officially my shopping inspiration. Up to my ears in Hermes? Yes please!

Chin Chin!

Friday, October 1st, 2010

Let’s ring in the weekend with a well deserved glass–okay, maybe two–of champagne, shall we? I just happen to have the perfect bottle for the occasion. On October 15th Dom Perignon will be releasing a series of Andy Warhol tribute bottles! I’m sure the vintage 2002 is delicious, but because I’m a marketers dream, I’m more interested in the pop art packaging. Take your pick between red, yellow, and blue bottles. At a $150/bottle though you might want to think long and hard ha!

Ready for the Rain!

Wednesday, October 28th, 2009
With all the rain we’ve been having lately in D.C, a new pair of wellies was definitely in order. I’ve been wanting Hunters for a while but haven’t wanted to pay the $115.00 price tag. Lucky for me I was able to find a great website that sells them for $94.00! I’m always up for a bargain and I know that these will last me for years to come. If you’re looking for a pair check out Dover Saddlery!

P.S Check out these sassy leopard welly socks you can accessorize your Hunters with. Too cute!