Archive for November, 2010

A Very Kate Christmas

Tuesday, November 30th, 2010
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A tree in the tub and glittering jewels on ice, Kate Spade just does it every time! They recently shared these shots from their holiday ad campaign on their facebook fan site and unsurprisingly, I’m in love. I actually have an entire folder devoted to old Kate Spade advertisements because they’re just so gorgeous. Maybe I’d be embarrassed for being such a groupie if I wasn’t so sure that I’m not the only one. I’m fairly certain that I’m among the very best company!
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Portraits of the Postman

Tuesday, November 30th, 2010
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 I was having trouble sleeping last night so I started flipping through an old art book on Van Gogh. He’s always been one of my favorite artists and I was more than happy to reacquaint myself with his portraits Joseph Roulin, the postman. They may not be as iconic as Starry Night but they’re definitely among my favorites. I love the vivid colors of the wallpaper in the background and his charming postal hat. I think I might need to track down a print and welcome Mr. Roulin into my home!
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Bon Appetit

Monday, November 29th, 2010
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Hello, hello! I’m back from my Thanksgiving induced food coma and ready to give this blog some much needed attention! I hope you all had a wonderful time with family and loved ones and scored a deal or two for yourself this weekend. I promise this is the last you’ll hear about my Thanksgiving table but I thought I’d share a picture of the finished product for anyone interested.  The round dining table wasn’t exactly ideal for the festivities but I listened to my inner Tim Gunn chanting “Make it work!”
Looking forward to getting back in the swing of things!
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Thankful

Wednesday, November 24th, 2010
 Each year, when it comes time to say Grace and share what we’re thankful for I struggle to find the perfect response. I truly have so many things to be thankful for it’s difficult to put it into words. Like many of us, I’m sure I’ve taken it all for granted in the past, but as I’ve grown older I’ve definitely realized just how lucky I’ve been. This year, I’m thankful for my family’s unwavering support, my boyfriend’s unfailing ability to make me laugh, and for my job, even though it’s not quite my dream job. Special thanks also go out to the pup for his morning snuggs and to all of YOU for taking time out of your day to stop by and leave a note. It really does make my day!
What will you be giving thanks for this year? 
P.S let’s all have an extra slice of dessert tomorrow- we deserve it!
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Bringing Back the Glamour

Tuesday, November 23rd, 2010
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I’m sure many of us have travel on the horizon this holiday season and what with the lines, chaos, and TSA agents trying to get to second base, traveling is no longer the glamorous activity of the past. Remember when people used to dress up to travel? Those were the days. I think we need to restore a little bit of that long lost glamour and make traveling more bearable. Fabulous luggage is a great place to start and it doesn’t get much more glamorous than this Hermes orange Globe-Trotter valise. It may not get me through security any faster, but I’d definitely have a smile on my face waiting for it at baggage claim. 
Safe travels to anyone making their way home for Thanksgiving! 
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Merry and Bright at Black&Spiro

Monday, November 22nd, 2010

If you asked me to name my design idols, Anna Spiro would definitely be at the top of the list. I know it sounds strange to say, but her interiors just speak to me. When I first found her blog a few years ago I read back through every single post! As usual, her latest installation at Black&Spiro doesn’t disappoint. I was especially excited to read that the installation was inspired by mexican otomi because I just picked up this otomi table cloth with plans of using it for a tree skirt!
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Thanksgiving Peek Cont’d

Friday, November 19th, 2010
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Mepra Due “Ice Oro” Flatware, $115, Hopper dot large dot mini rose bowl, $75, Pier 1 Imports – Gold Lacquer Charger, $4, Mottahedeh Brass, Elephant Candlesticks – Pair. Size: 4 Inch H x 4…, $50, kate spade Morella Avenue Dinner Plate from Lenox, $28
Zest Candle 12″ Orange Taper Candles $15, Pier 1 Imports – Short Gold Tumblers, $6, Placemat

Thank you all so much for the sweet comments on yesterday’s peek at the jumbled mess that will soon be transformed into my Thanksgiving table. A few of you had questions so I thought I’d share the polyvore I initially threw together when I was planning. 

I started with the kate spade Morella Ave. dinner plates which I was able to buy on sale at Lenox. I knew I wanted to pick up the gold rim of the plates so I snagged a set of inexpensive chargers at Pier 1 when I picked up my polka-dot glasses. Originally, I had planned to use Roberta Roller Rabbit napkins in gin orange but they sold out so I settled for the Amanda placemat which I’m actually loving a lot more! The Mottahedeh elephant candlesticks are one of my favorite antique mall finds and will be filled with orange tapers.

My centerpiece was inspired by the kate spade Cloverdale vase featured in Michelle Adams’ bedroom. I decided to try my hand at a DIY version which came out great so I’ll be sure to share soon.  Thanks again and if you made it this far I’m impressed! 

Have a GREAT weekend!
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Thanksgiving Peek

Thursday, November 18th, 2010
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My dining table is currently a jumble of china, glassware, and linens that will be gracing my Thanksgiving table. I might be jumping the gun, as it’s still a week away, but I’m so excited for my family’s first visit to our apartment I can hardly wait to get the table set and the bird in the oven. Is anyone else as excited as I am or are you begging for a few extra days, hours, minutes to prepare? I still have a million things on the to-do list so I might be joining that camp soon!
P.S Where did November go??
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Amy’s Sketchbook

Thursday, November 18th, 2010
Tibi is one of my absolute favorite brands so I was thrilled when they started a blog a few months back. It’s filled to the brim with inspiration. My favorite feature is “Amy’s Sketchbook” where they share a peek into the sketchbook of Tibi’s founder, Amy Smilovic. I would love to frame one of her watercolors for my closet. Perfect inspiration for putting together super chic outfits. 
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Stripes and Polka Dots

Wednesday, November 17th, 2010
With so many occasions to raise a glass during the holiday season you’ll want to make sure to have some stylish glassware on hand. These polka dot and striped glasses from Pier 1 are my current favorites. I picked up a set of the polka dots for my Thanksgiving table (which I’m so excited to share soon) but now I’m thinking I might need to add some stripes into the mix. They’re just so festive! Don’t the polka dots remind you of falling confetti?
P.S they’re on sale for $4.99 each!
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A Personal Favorite

Tuesday, November 16th, 2010
 Adam Herz’s guest bedroom, featured in the November 2008 issue of Elle Decor, is an oldie but goodie. I’ve probably stared at it for hours on end trying to commit every last detail to memory. It’s the perfect mix of color and pattern, vintage and modern. Such a difficult balance to attain! I have to point out that one of my favorite fabrics of all time, Peter Dunham’s Fig Leaf, is gracing that beautiful loveseat. Oh, what I wouldn’t give for a yard or two of that fabric… What are some of your personal favorites? Is there a room you just can’t get out of your head?
P.S does anyone know anything about that fantastic orange pillow? I’d LOVE to find something similar.
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Steal the Look: Olivia Palermo

Tuesday, November 16th, 2010
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I love everything about Olivia Palermo’s outfit in this photo. From the fur vest, to the ballet flats, to the gold watch- it’s perfection. Of course, the icing on the cake is the fabulous cognac leather clutch. I believe Olivia’s is Hermes, but a quick eBay search for vintage alligator clutches led me to the beauty pictured above. A dead ringer, right?
P.S if you’re looking for a similar fur vest I found a great inexpensive version here.
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Ode to Joan + Holly Golightly

Monday, November 15th, 2010
Every time I stop by etsy I seem to find a new shop to add to my favorites. With so many talented people in one place it’s hard not to, right? El Lohse is one of my newest finds that I just had to share. The artist describes her work as “art odes to pop culture” and you can see why. Her Ode to Joan is stunning and of course I have to love her rendition of this Breakfast at Tiffanys scene. Pure eye candy!Stop by to see if El Lohse has captured one of your favorite pop culture moments.
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Don’t Tread on Me

Saturday, November 13th, 2010

My fear of snakes isn’t quite as intense as my mom’s, (mostly due to a childhood prank by her mischievous older brother involving a dead garden snake and a door handle–Uncle Bob, you were a demon!), but I can promise that you won’t find me with a python around my neck a la Britney anytime soon.  I’ may never have the real thing in my home, but here are a few stylishly slithering pieces I wouldn’t mind welcoming in. 
What do you think? Will it take a snake charmer for you to get in on the trend?
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Warm and Bright Cont’d.

Friday, November 12th, 2010
Remember how I was searching for a bright winter coat earlier this week? Well, I can call off the hounds because it has been found! Meet Barbour’s Elizabeth Wool Coat, the perfect shade of pumpkin-y orange. Plus, with a pedigree like Barbour’s I know it will last forever. Welcome to my Christmas list, Elizabeth, you’ll be in good company. 
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Pretty Little Things

Thursday, November 11th, 2010
These watercolors by Miss Capricho are perfectly colorful and sweet. Wouldn’t the lingerie print be adorable in a girly dressing room? If I only had the luxury…
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Slim Aarons Gets Political

Wednesday, November 10th, 2010
You probably don’t know this because I try to keep things simple and stylish around here, (both things politics is usually not), but I’m a bit of a political nerd. So you can imagine my excitement to stumble upon this signed Slim Aarons photo of William Buckley! A big departure from the socialites and high society types I’m used to seeing from Slim, but fantastic nonetheless.
Who’s ready to hit the slopes? I wouldn’t mind a weekend trip to Vermont–or Gstaad for that matter!
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A Visit to Monogramming Mecca: Leontine Linens

Wednesday, November 10th, 2010
 

I’m falling more in love with New Orleans by the day, it’s such a magical city filled with incredibly creative and talented people. It’s no wonder that luxury linen purveyor, Leontine Linens, calls this city home. Earlier this week I popped into their Magazine St. store to see in person what I’ve been drooling over online for years. If it’s even conceivable, everything is even more beautiful in person! Of course I couldn’t walk away empty handed so I took a seat in that gorgeous monogrammed chair and got to designing my own little treat. Brooke, the employee that helped me through the process, could not have been sweeter and more patient with me as I agonized over color choices (are you surprised ha!) My order is off to Kentucky where it will be hand drawn and then sewn- a lost art! I can hardly wait for it to arrive on my doorstep and will be sure to share when it comes. 
P.S How perfect would the monogrammed jewelry rounds be for bridesmaids? Such a classic and personal gift. 
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Designing DC: Sara Tuttle

Tuesday, November 9th, 2010
I think I could gush on for days about all the reasons I love interior designer Sara Tuttle’s gorgeous home. For starters, it’s in DC and of course I have to feel a little hometown pride! Honestly though, the real reason I love her home so much is her brilliant use of color and eclectic mix of pieces. It’s exactly the look I’d like to achieve in my own home. 
I haven’t been able to get this gorgeous hot pink bolster with greek key trim out of my head. 

What do you think? Are you as ready to move in as I am?
Thanks to Jackie and Ashlina for re-igniting my love for this space!
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Audrey at the Hair Salon

Tuesday, November 9th, 2010

I recently stumbled upon these charming shots of Audrey and knew I had to share. They were taken by the incredibly talented Mark Shaw (family photographer to JFK and Jackie) on the set of Sabrina. Audrey was only 24 at the time (my age!) and well on her way to becoming a household name. Apparently while filming Sabrina, Audrey’s hair was shampooed every night and she would often conduct business while under the dryer. 
P.S Several of Mark’s Audrey prints are available for purchase. The perfect gift for an Audrey fanatic like myself. I’d love to have one for my desk. 
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Warm and Bright

Monday, November 8th, 2010
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I know I’m down south where winter coats aren’t quite necessary, but like it or not, I’ll soon be returning to DC where the weather is getting chillier by the day. You’d think that being from Massachusetts I’d be used to the cold but I’m still a beach baby at heart. I’m on the hunt for a new winter coat and as usual, can’t help but be drawn to brighter hues. I’d love to get my hands on one of these orange beauties. At the very least, if DC gets hit with massive snow storms again this year you’ll definitely be able to find me in a snow pile!
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NOLA

Saturday, November 6th, 2010

I’m off to New Orleans tomorrow and couldn’t be more excited! I’ll be in the area on business but am hoping to set aside time to do some exploring.  One of my favorite artists, Amanda Stone Talley, has a studio on Magazine street (only a few blocks from my hotel!) that I can’t wait to check out. I really hope to own a piece of her art someday, but for now, seeing it in person will have to do. I’m also looking forward to Cafe du Monde’s famous beignets–yum! Do you have any favorites I can’t miss?  As always, I’d love to her your suggestions!
P.S thank you to everyone who left recommendations for my parents’ surprise trip to San Francisco. I just spoke to my mom and they’ve arrived in sunny CA with loads of fun things on the agenda thanks to your suggestions. My dad was completely surprised and I know this will be a birthday to remember for him!
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In Her Bag: Marissa Webb

Friday, November 5th, 2010

I think I fall more in love with J.Crew every day. Marissa Webb, head of Women’s Design, recently shared a sneak peek into her purse and unsurprisingly, even its contents tumbling out looked incredibly chic. I especially love her Alexander McQueen skull and tassel key chain and the neon pink matches she saved for inspiration. J.Crew’s marketing department is definitely doing their job because now I’m lusting after Marissa’s seattle grey Gemini bag. Isn’t that a great name for a grey?

Keep it up J.Crew and I’ll be in the poor house!

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Olivia Palermo for Mango

Thursday, November 4th, 2010
Olivia Palermo and boyfriend Johannes Huebel are the faces of Mango’s fall/winter ad campaign and the photos are just gorgeous. I thought her to-die-for wardrobe and collection of Birkins was reason enough to be envious but then she marches out this stud. If they have babies they’ll certainly have won the genetic lottery (and an amazing closet to play dress up in!)
P.S apologies for the lack of post yesterday. Election night festivities and a cold left me feeling a little under the weather!
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In The Weeds

Tuesday, November 2nd, 2010
I’m a bit in the weeds due to the election excitement today, so I thought I’d leave you with some of the prettiest “weeds” I’ve seen in a long time. Would you expect anything less from Martha? Making a mental note to start looking for vintage canisters on my antique mall adventures.
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Pint Sized Fashionista

Monday, November 1st, 2010
It might be a bit unconventional to find fashion inspiration in the kids section but I just love the way this crewcuts model is styled. I’d swap the striped tights for a striped boatneck top but I’d definitely take the blazer if it came in my size! 
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San Francisco Surprise

Monday, November 1st, 2010
My dad is turning the big 5-0 this weekend and to celebrate my mom is taking him on a surprise trip to San Francisco! They’ve been to California before but have somehow missed this beautiful city. You, my amazing readers, have never led me astray in your recommendations in the past so I thought I’d ask for some suggestions for my parents. What are your favorite spots and things to do in SF? Is there a delicious restaurant they can’t miss for his birthday dinner? Great boutiques my mom can’t pass up? I’d love to hear them and I’m sure my parents will be very appreciative–50 is a big one so they have to live it up!
 Hope your Halloween weekend was filled with more treats than tricks! Mine was admittedly low key, pumpkin carving, scary movies and our first fire of the season in our fireplace. We are officially an old couple!
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Mistinguette

Friday, November 6th, 2009
I am currently loving these vintage posters of french actress and singer Jeanne Bourgeois. A fellow singer coined the name Miss Tinguette for Jeanne which she made her own by combining the two. Mistinguette graced the stage of Casino de Paris in the 1890s as well as other famous venues such as the Moulin Rouge. Mistinguette was one of the highest female paid actresses of her time, her legs were insured for the then astronomical sum of 500,000 francs.





I would love to display these in my living room similar to the images below:

When asked to explain her popularity, Mistinguette replied:

“It is a kind of magnetism. I say ‘Come closer’ and draw them to me.”
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