the styLe handLer.

kimono flair.

2012-02-23T19:28:00.001-06:00

what is it about shoes? perhaps, sarah jessica parker ala carrie bradshaw in sex & the city said it best… “the fact is, sometimes it’s really hard to walk in [a] woman’s shoes. that’s why we need really special ones now and then to make the walk a little more fun.”

{kimono wedges}

well, i have fallen hard for these wedges. handmade from a vintage silk kimono. i love the hues of orange, green, gold, white and black. these wedges are the perfect summer accessory.

{kimono sandal wedges}

each pair is unique depending on the kimono used. kimono fabrics are often hand made and hand decorated. traditional fabrics include silk, silk brocade, silk crepes, and satin weaves creating a lovely and delicate pattern.

{kimono resin bangles}

shoes not your thing? well, consider one of these lovely bangles. a piece of upcycled japanese vintage silk kimono is placed into a mould and set under crystal clean resin. gorgeous.

i’m turning japanese,

**cmB**

the color of 2012: tangerine tango.

2012-01-06T22:06:00.001-06:00

well, 2012 is in full swing. and i am loving the “new” minnesota weather, where it is nearly 50 degrees and sunny in january.

to accompany the cheery weather is pantone’s 2012 color of the year. say hello to tangerine tango. according to the press release, “tangerine tango marries the vivaciousness and adrenaline rush of red with the friendliness and warmth of yellow, to form a high-visibility, magnetic hue that emanates heat and energy.” my analysis: it’s a fun, lively color.

i have always been fond of the color orange. i once tried to persuade my mom to let me paint my bedroom goldfish orange. thankfully, my taste has evolved and i am loving the idea of using tangerine tango as a pop of color in home decor. LOVE that headboard. the hints of orange spice up the room and add a playful tone to it.

take a look at that shiny orange night stand. what a great color combination: aqua and tangerine tango. this would be great in a rental, where you don’t have the option to paint the walls, but still want color. the mix of pattern and color create an energetic vibe.

gray & orange make quite the striking combination. i love how just a few instances of orange really liven up this neutral room. and i love the round rug, a great complimentary shape to all of the line and angles.

roman shades add some flair to this bedroom. i love all the white furniture and windows. i would move into this bedroom in a heart beat.

orange you glad i told you about tangerine tango?

**cmB**

colorful inspiration for the new year.

2012-01-02T19:14:00.001-06:00

happy 2012! what better way to start the year than with a little inspiration? one of my favorite blogs: {design seeds} draws inspiration by pulling a color palette from an image. for example…

{alp hues}

to me, there is something provoking about color pairings. i especially love that {design seeds} uses real world imagery (and the HEX codes in case you want to use the colors in a project of your own). how incredible are those mountains?

{color worn}

another thing i like about {design seeds} is that is gives you a sampling of how colors work together. i love yellows, but typically shy away from anything in the purple family. however, after staring at this vintage window i am contemplating leaving my comfort zone.

{teacup color}

how gorgeous is this tea cup? i am currently crushing on china & porcelain… and i just love the pattern of this cup. if you’re looking for some colorful inspiration i highly suggest popping over to {design seeds}. it’s truly eye candy.

cheers to the new year!

**cmB**

p.s. follow me on pinterest! just click the “p” button on the right hand side…

baby s: nursery inspiration board.

2011-12-14T20:21:00.001-06:00

handlettes: i apologize for my lack of blog content lately! busy busy busy at la casa de la stylehandler. and by casa i mean itty bitty studio.

nonetheless, you might recall in october i did a few posts with some nursery inspiration for mr & mrs s {inspiration 1} and {inspiration 2}. well, here’s the inspiration board inspired by their favorite room.

a soft aqua hue will set the background for the pink and white accessories. i love the range of pinks mixed with a little bit of red & orange… which will all be timely colors for the arrival of little miss baby s. stay tuned for photos of the executed design.

**cmB**

dreaming of winter wear.

2011-11-16T22:11:00.001-06:00

if you couldn’t tell, one of the ways i cope with winter is buying cute winter swag. i found my dream coat…

{luggage lock camille coat by milly}

ironically, this coat is the “camille coat.” of course i am obsessed with it. i love the chevron pattern, wool tweed, and the luggage lock button details. it’s simply adorable.

{luggage lock camille coat by milly}

red & black or white & black? ah the choices. well, since this coat costs $750 i probably wont ever have to make that tough decision… unless i get a lot of piperlime gift cards for christmas.

{luggage lock camille coat by milly}

here’s a close up (in case you didnt believe me when i said this coat was adorable). details. details. details. they get me every time.

another one for the wish list,

**cmB**

show off those digits: go topless.

2011-11-13T10:28:00.001-06:00

in the winter, my hands are always cold. however, i need my fingers free to type and write. so wearing mittens isn’t always an option. thankfully i found a solution on etsy… completely topless mittens!

{white mohair topless mittens}

the main difference between fingerless mittens and fingerless gloves is the design. gloves separate fingers, while mittens allow fingers to remain together.

{black & white wool topless mittens}

the brilliance of the fingerless mittens is that your fingers get to stay together, so the fingers can keep each other warm. plus, the topless quality of the mitten means that your functionality isn’t compromised. genius.

{polar white topless mittens}

and while all the practical aspects have me sold on this product, the fact that these topless mittens are adorable makes them all the more worthwhile. if i could knit i would whip these up in every color, but since i can’t knit i will be ordering something from etsy.

{black & white polka dotted topless mittens}

of course, i found a pair with darling polka dots. these ones look thick & cozy… they might just be the winner.

excited for some toasty hands!

**cmB**

primp @ west end.

2011-11-10T19:39:00.001-06:00

every girl needs to primp. if you haven’t been to the charming little shop over in st. paul, you’re missing out. but lucky for us minneapolians… primp is opening a new location in the west end.

{primp}

the new west end primp opened today! location: 1628 west end blvd, st. louis park, mn 55416, between hot mama and anthropologie. hours: monday-saturday 10 am-9 pm, sunday 11 am-6 pm.

{primp}

the concept behind primp is simple: affordable boutique shopping. nearly everything is under $100. and everything is so cute!

{primp}

primp has those great everyday basics, but also lots of statement and trend pieces. the collection of little dresses could be perfect place to find something for a wedding or holiday party.

**cmB**

early onset of the winter blues.

2011-10-31T18:49:00.001-05:00

is it possible that it’s only october and i already have the winter blues? well, that’s only partially true…

{west elm winter floral duvet}

i saw this gorgeous navy hued duvet from west elm featuring the new winter floral design and i was instantly smitten. hence, i’ve got the winter blues, but the good ones.

{west elm winter floral duvet}

i love the floral pattern, it’s not too flowery, but still has a great organic shape to it. and i am just loving the color combination of ivory and navy. lovely.

**cmB**

simplify & declutter.

2011-10-30T19:27:00.000-05:00

ever since i was a little kid, my dad has encouraged the practice of “decluttering.” which is basically the exact opposite of hoarding. there was a great post on {apartment therapy} on decluttering your home.

i loved the suggestion of using an “outbox.” an outbox is a halfway house for those things you are considering letting go of. the outbox is not garbage. it is just a place where things sit while their fate is being decided. it’s a safe place, you can always take something out of the outbox.

the rules of the outbox…

1. anything can go in the outbox
2. the outbox is allowed to get messy
3. everything must stay in the outbox for at least one week
4. after that time you have several choices
a. take anything back out
b. leave anything you are undecided about for one more week
c. dispose of the rest by moving to the garbage, recycling bin, or giveaway pile

rumor is that once you get used to separating first and disposing of later, you'll find that clearing clutter gets easier and easier. read the full post {here} or find more detail in {apartment therapy: the eight-step home cure}.

**cmB**

nursery inspiration for baby s: part two.

2011-10-25T21:00:00.001-05:00

picking up right where we left off yesterday… a nursery for baby s. but today, we are looking at green as a feature color.

{the bump}

what a charming little girl nursery. i think the soft green color creates a soothing background. i love the light fixture and the touches of other colors like oranges and reds.

{the decorologist}

this nursery is a similar hue of green to the last nursery, just a bit paler. i really like the pink and orange combo.

{creative baby nursery rooms}

this might be a bit of green overload, but it is tempered with all the white. i like the wainscot and chair rail.

{hudson baby design}

how darling is this room? i very much like the warm shade of green. and that orange chair… it’s perfect.

{live the fancy life}

and just for fun… let’s look at a nursery that combines both green and aqua. i love the gray walls. and the mobile made of 3d lamps… how cool is that?! these colors are great together… or apart.

stay tuned for results…

**cmB**

nursery inspiration for baby s: part one.

2011-10-24T18:57:00.001-05:00

e & m are having their first baby! a little girl is expected to arrive in march. so, that means designing a nursery for her. mom likes shades of aqua and greens… so here are some inspiration & ideas.

{susan weinroth}

i love this color combination. aqua blue and bright yellow. the sunny and bright yellow is complimented well by the calming blue. i really like the two aqua shades used in this room offset by the wide horizontal white stripe.

{mini gaga}

here’s more of that fantastic color combo. this aqua blue is a little milder with more of a green tone. i like the addition of a few other colors in the mix too… some reds and greens (lamp shade & curtain).

{baby lifestyles}

i like the white trees against the aqua colored walls. and i am in love with that round floor rug on the wood floors. i like mix of the graphic prints in this room… it adds nice visual interest.

{decor pad}

i think this pairing of rose and aqua and think it would be darling for a little girls room. i think the floral prints really add to the femininity of the room.

to be continued tomorrow with some green inspiration…

**cmB**

tasty halloween tables.

2011-10-20T21:45:00.001-05:00

i like halloween for one simple reason: candy! sadly, my trick-or-treating days are behind me. but, that doesn’t mean i can’t enjoy sweet treats. here are a few delicious grown-up dessert table designs.

what cute little bats and i love the shredded tulle. i hadn’t really though of using white as a feature color in a halloween display… black & orange are the typical prominent colors. i really like the white and the chartreuse backdrop, it’s unexpected.

yum yum yum! look at all these tasty treats! i love the use of color in this display, lots of orange. this table is bright and cheery. i want to go to this party!

this is sophisticated table. the cake is gorgeous… i love the lace detail. the black lacey and crepe runners create a lovely background for the table display. i especially like the black cake stands and candelabra.

**cmB**

fur for fall.

2011-10-18T20:13:00.001-05:00

the cold wind makes me long for the summer heat. to cope with the approaching winter weather, i must bribe myself by looking at fun winter attire… like fur.

i love the mixture of animal prints in this ensemble. fur, well faux fur, is on trend for this fall. if you are thinking about adding a furry piece to your wardrobe, here are some options:

{only mine allison faux fur vest}

fur is one of those classics that can be dressed down or up... jeans or evening gown, fur looks great with both. i like this little faux fur vest, it is a great piece for layering.

{dkny long sleeve faux fur jacket}

ooh… i love this jacket. this may be the piece that i need for my winter wardrobe. it looks simple and classic and is a great statement piece.

{kristen blake belted faux fur vest}

i think even an eskimo could keep warm in this vest. i love the length of the fur… it adds a bit of an avante garde flavor.

{guess stella faux fur jacket}

this bomber jacket is the definition of fashionable fur. i love the mixed tones and textures. very chic.

**cmB**

fabulous faux bois.

2011-10-17T21:23:00.001-05:00

my crush on rustic elegance is being fueled by my recent sightings of faux bois patterns. faux bois is french for false wood. adding some faux bois pattern to your palette brings a little bit of nature inside, while adding whimsy.

{wood grain pillow @ target}

target: you’ve done it again. i love the idea of using the wood grained pattern on a pillow. wood is traditionally a hard surface and putting it onto a pillow you can cozy up to is an interesting juxtaposition. this pillow might just make it into my shopping cart during my next target run…

{deco mini pendant shade}

faux bois patterns have a great graphic quality in combination with a natural feel. i love these layered pendant shades. they create visual interest without being over the top. i also like how the shades glow from the inside… lovely.

{ross sveback faux bois dinnerware collection}

local (minneapolis based) cooking & lifestyle expert, ross sveback has crafted gorgeous faux bois china. sveback was inspired by his grandmother ellen (who taught him how to cook) and his minnesota upbringing. charming story & cute china. want!

{martha stewart layered faux bois sequoia rug}

even martha is on the wood grain band wagon… she’s got a great area rug featuring a faux bois pattern. i think this rug would look great in a living room with chocolate-colored leather furniture. mmm.

**cmB**

cozy & comfortable: mongolian fur pillows.

2011-10-16T17:31:00.001-05:00

i am completely a sucker for pillows. all kinds. my bed has no less than ten pillows on it (both sleeping & accent). and my latest accent pillow obsession is fur covered pillows…

hello gorgeous room… i am ready to move in. i love the collection of accent pillows, especially the addition of the fur covered one. it adds lovely texture and looks cozy. i am also in love with those tree stump foot stools. talk about {rustic elegance}.

{adrienne landau mongolian pillow @ neimen marcus}

luckily, furry pillows are right on trend this fall. i found several options available if you find yourself hankering for some fur. fur pillows look so comfortable and inviting, i think they would be a great addition for the cold winter weather ahead.

{mongolian lamb pillow cover @ west elm}

furry pillows look good in the bedroom too. i like how this one picks up on the accent color in the bedding. (and what a gorgeous headboard too).

{mongolian wool pillow @ pier one}

i really like the combination of textures that fur pillows introduce. many of the fabrics that are incorporated into our homes, via couches, drapes & pillows, are often flat. here, the canvas covered sofa is smooth and has crisp lines. converse to the furry pillows, which introduce a 3-dimensional, run-your-fingers-through-it texture. it’s a lovely juxtaposition.

i am gettin’ me some fur,

**cmB**

drumming up a new chandelier.

2011-10-11T16:17:00.001-05:00

mdk moved into a new condo. and i love almost everything about it… the dark walnut hardwood floors, the european soft-closing drawers, and the walk-out patio. but there is one thing that i do not like: the dining room light fixture.

it’s red, black & gold and has exposed bulbs. it looks completely out of place compared to the rest of the finishes in the apartment. but mdk is only renting the condo, so he doesn’t want to spend money or time replacing it only to have to switch it back when he moves out.

so… i went searching for a solution. and i think i have found something… cover up the ugly fixture with a large drum shade. now all of the inspiration i found had gorgeous chandeliers compared to the ugly one in mdk’s place, but you get the idea.

using a drum shade over a chandelier is an interesting way to combine a traditional light fixture with a modern look. i like the idea because it would solve the issue of exposed bulbs and mostly mask the chandelier (depending on how large of a drum shade i use).

i haven’t exactly figure out how i will install the drum shade, but that’s part of the fun of a DIY project… execution. of course, i will post results and perhaps even a DIY guide (if i am successful).

wish me luck,

**cmB**

rustic elegance.

2011-10-05T21:11:00.001-05:00

i just returned from a family vacation to tahoe where we stayed in a charming mountain home surrounded by gorgeous scenery. the views of the mountains and the lake inspired me to look at rustic interior design.

i grew up in a restored farmhouse, so rustic style always reminds me of home. rustic style emphasizes elements, like stone, wood, and metals. the essence of these various materials gives rustic style its character. i love the eclectic, yet refined feel of this room.

rustic style is also about bringing the outdoors inside. fireplaces are a great opportunity to incorporate materials like stone and brick. and the exposed ceiling beams… in love. the pared-down aesthetic and neutral color scheme really brings out the variety of textures.

one of the challenges of rustic design is keeping it tasteful and not letting it cross into tacky log cabin, overworked ski chalet. rustic details, like tree log ottomans, mixed with modern art keep the room elegant and fresh.

the visual impact of that fireplace is amazing. the rough quality of the stacked stone and wood against the pure white walls is mesmerizing.

in the age of plastics & particle board, natural elements give a room soul.

**cmB**

sassy shoulders: epaulettes.

2011-09-30T20:38:00.000-05:00

i love statement jewelry. and my latest jewelry obsession is military-inspired epaulettes. these armor-like should details make traditional necklaces seem boring.

well, i am sure you could put natalie portman in just about anything and she’d look amazing. and she makes these gold epaulettes look good. i also love her smoldering eye makeup.

i am loving the feathers and fringes. one of the reasons i am drawn to epaulettes is because they go beyond typical, expected jewelry pieces. and you can mix and match them with just about anything.

the pairing of soft (feathers) and hard (chains) is one of my favorite combinations. the cascading chains are quite a lovely feature.

this is definitely on the avant garde side. but these high-voltage glittering rocks are calling my name.

now i need to buff up my arms…

**cmB**

the color of ombre.

2011-09-28T21:05:00.001-05:00

lately, i have found myself being drawn to ombre. and just what is ombre? well, in fashion terms, ombre refers to the graduation of color in a garment.

{ikeates}

typically, ombre refers to a garment that is monochromatic but has a graduated variation in the saturation of the color. take this cute little cocktail number for example. the layers of silk organza range in color from light gray to deep charcoal. this dress is simple and stunning.

{herve leger}

ombre doesn’t need to be monochromatic. take this herve leger bandage dress. the ombre effect is created with shades of yellow and gray. the dress is visually quite interesting and the dark band in the middle would help to cinch your waist.

{kate spade}

and ombre can be created with a pattern, like this adorable skirt from kate spade. i love that the pattern creates a subtle ombre effect. how cute would this skirt look with just about anything… i am in serious like.

{uye surana by monicaus}

how gorgeous is this dress? i love the transition from mauve to violet and it’s hand dyed and hand distressed. the flowy silk in combination with the colors creates an amazingly feminine silhouette.

{celine}

how about putting the dark on top and light on the bottom? i love the richness of color in this chiffon skirt. blue can be such a regal color, but a little can go a long way. and this dress perfectly flows from one blue shade to the next.

ombre: you simply must join my wardrobe,

**cmB**

something pretty to look at: art.

2011-09-27T23:57:00.001-05:00

i am in search of a piece of art for my office. i want something inspiring, so i can look up from my mounds of paperwork and see something beautiful. here are some of my finds from {etsy}.

{amborela}

mmm… neutral colors and a little bit of texture. i like that the flowers are reminiscent of cotton plants.

{jolina anthony}

this painting is beautiful. i love the combination of color… the yellow background really adds brightness and cheer. the gorgeous purple floral pattern is perfection.

{bangbough}

i love the flowing circular lines in this painting. there is something very organic about it. i also like the use of neutral beiges with just a hint of blue.

{the painted sky}

there is something about landscapes that just appeal to me. i love the abstract quality of this painting… it gives the impression of a lake reflecting the sky. it’s lovely.

{lulu & drew}

and i love yellow & gray… this painting has a simple, abstract quality, which is fun. and everyone can probably use some more fun in their office.

**cmB**

craving fall colors.

2011-09-21T21:07:00.001-05:00

well, if it is going to be cold… i want some fall colors! here are a few of my favorites.

{fall colors}

as the temperature continues to drop, i am looking forward to some beautiful fall colors. gold and bronze, plum and deep browns… until the leaves change i will be sporting these colors in my wardrobe.

**cmB**

eat it up: dining room inspiration.

2011-09-19T20:21:00.001-05:00

i am starting a new project with my decorating partner and it’s a room we’ve never done before… a dining room! here’s some inspiration to get us started.

the client’s home is a gorgeous classic craftsman in south minneapolis. it has all those amazing details, like crown molding, plate height wood molding, a built-in buffet, coffered ceilings, and original light fixtures. it’s a designer’s dream… we could not ask for a better project house!

our challenge will be to unite the old classic details with modern functionality. i am thinking a neutral color scheme. most of the wood detail is a warm oak color, so finding a shade that lets the wood shine will be key.

what a lovely color scheme. i like the geometric texture the rug brings to the room. all the browns and grays mixed with white & black look sophisticated without being stuffy and cold.

i love this dining room. well, who wouldn’t want a dining room with amazing french doors that walk outside? the ethereal curtains frame the window out perfectly. sheers are some of the best window treatments… the light shines through. and i am just in love with those chairs.

what a perfect color combination. the dark floors and table ground the space. the white chairs and wood accents keep the room from feeling too dark. and the touch of butter adds some color. just lovely.

**cmB**

office decor: influence productivity.

2011-09-14T23:07:00.001-05:00

i believe that people are influenced by their environment. that’s one of the reasons i am drawn to decorating. the physical environment is the back drop of our lives. and work spaces are no exception. spend a little time decorating your office and you might just increase your productivity.

i love all the colors in the office. the neutral shades seem to work together to create a calm background. i could see myself buckling down and being ultra productive in this type of space. and i love giant clocks.

how fun to have an old fashioned library ladder in your office! the pop of green in this space brings some cheer to this office space without being obnoxious. the massive cork board would be super useful for keeping focus on things that need attention.

i am obsessed with this office set-up. it’s the perfect mix of fun and function. i especially like the bar with hanging containers. i am always looking for my pens. and where can i get a desk chair like that? if only it were on wheels.

adorable. and i think this idea would translate well to a cube type of workspace. the backdrop could easily be made out of scrapbook pages. and those cute little garbage cans? much better than boring plastic bins.

i deeply believe that beautiful decor can have a beneficial influence on our lives. albert hadley.

**cmB**

welcome fall with color.

2011-09-13T21:15:00.001-05:00

well, with the drop in temperatures today it seems that fall is on its way. time to switch out those bright summer hues for some autumnal tones.

{pantone fall 2011 fashion trend colors}

i love looking at the pantone color report. this season is based on “sensible and spirited colors” inspired by great master artists, sepia tones of old hollywood, chinese opera, cityscapes and countryside texture.

{cedar + deep teal + coffee liqueur}

i love deep teal. it’s reminiscent of peacock feathers. i love this pairing of colors. since cedar (cardi) is teal’s (tights) color wheel neighbor the two pair nicely together. and the coffee liqueur dress adds a rich warms to this outfit. i love pairing tights with dresses and skirts in the fall… keeps my legs warm and adds texture.

{phlox}

phlox is a “magical, deep purple with a hint of mystery.” this color is regal and distinguished. i love the petal shaped hem on this skirt and those cute little buttons… ah i want.

{bamboo + nougat}

of course i am thrilled to see bamboo in the fall color palette, i am a sucker for yellow hues. pantone describes bamboo as a standout yellow with a subtle green undertone. i think i will be adding a bamboo cardi to my wardrobe.

{emberglow + orchid hush + quarry}

now this may seem a little bit on the easter side to pair all these shades, but i think it creates an interesting balance. orchid hush and quarry are gray tones that pair well with any of the top ten fall colors. be adventurous with emberglow or more reserved with nougat.

which colors will you be wearing this fall?

**cmB**

some inspiration from vera.

2011-09-09T21:08:00.001-05:00

i saw this gorgeous vera wang necklace and i was instantly inspired…

{vera wang}

i am such a sucker for anything gray. and throw those sparkles in there… ah, what a lovely necklace. i decided this would make a great DIY project.

{the results}

and here’s my creation. clearly, i am no vera wang. but i do like the way this turned out. i sort of went a little overboard making rosettes, but all together the necklace has great volume and hangs well.

{macro}

here is a close-up of my handiwork. i used a gray linen fabric, twisted it into rosettes, and added pearl & clear beads to the center to make the flowers pop. then, i attached a ribbon to the top and boom… new accessory inspired by vera.

enjoy the weekend!

**cmB**

master bedroom mania.

2011-09-08T22:10:00.001-05:00

some friends (a couple) are combining their stuff and moving in together. ah combining the bachelor pad with the female flat… the challenge of finding the middle ground between two styles. i found some inspirational ideas…

just because you want a room to be gender neutral doesn’t mean that it has to be boring. by sticking to colors like browns, tans, grays, and blacks the palate is nonchalant and reads manly, just as much as lady. i love the mix of patterns, they create great visual interest.

i love the combination of navy and charcoal in this room. peppering in the white accents helps the dark colors pop. it’s perfection with the layered rugs. and the tufted lounger with nail head trim at the foot of the bed… when can i move in?

cute and classic. notice the non-matching night stands? one is a table and the other is a little bureau. because the color is consistent throughout the furniture, the mismatched tables add some charm.

clean simplicity. that’s what makes this room work. the low profile bed, muted color tones, and uncluttered design help this room feel very zen-like. i think this look could be easily executed. want to add more excitement? change out your throw pillows or add accents with more color or pattern. or keep it simple.

maybe go with a theme you both like. i love the hints of safari in this room… the large leather headboards create great texture. i like the sconces on the side of the bed, eliminates the need for the traditional night stand.

**cmB**

bring on the boots.

2011-09-07T21:03:00.002-05:00

summer is truly my favorite season… so, i have to bribe myself with reminders of why fall and winter aren’t all bad. and one of those reasons is boots! these pairs are on my wish list.

{sonya by ralph lauren @ piperlime}

i like them tall, boots that is. these riding boots are 14” tall and make me want to learn how to ride a horse.

{holbein by nine west @ zappos}

over the knee (aka otk) boots were my crush last year… and looks like this year too. perhaps i will actually have to get some. i love the fringed calf detail. talk about texture.

{sidony boots @ anthropologie}

and more texture! these woven cowboy styled boots are charming. i love the gray. oh anthro, you always know how to steal my heart.

{big ben by envy footwear @ piperlime}

this is what a short girl needs! boots with a wedged heel. i live in my wedge sandals all summer long pretending to be several inches taller. it looks like these could be the cold weather counterpart.

{resurfaced boots @ anthro}

and i will finish up this post with another anthro find… the cone heeled boots are so cute. and i love the texture on the foot base.

anyone else dreaming of boots?
**cmB**

beautiful bows.

2011-09-05T20:40:00.001-05:00

i am finding myself drawn to bows. as a kid, i loved tying a ribbon into a bow in my hair. now, i am liking bows on dresses.

this dress is relatively simple, but the bow adds a little bit of detail. what a pretty coral color.

what i like about this bow is that you don’t even really notice it is a bow. the gathered fabric adds some visual interest to the dress.

a dress with pockets! my favorite detail. i also like the black and white contrast. the white panels mimic a bow shape, which is quite clever.

love. love. love. this dress hangs so beautifully. and the bow belt ties it all together… actually.

**cmB**

stripe hype.

2011-08-30T20:42:00.001-05:00

i love stripes. in fashion, in home decor, anywhere… i love the look of stripes. stripes can help pull a room together or add some structured accents.

{horizontal stripes}

stripes go with just about any style… i love the coastal feel of this room. the stripes draw your eyes around the room. the mix of patterned fabric against the stripes is just the perfect mix.

{chevron stripe}

stripes are fair game anywhere… walls, floor, accents. chevron stripes are a cousin to regular stripes, chevron stripes are stripes on an angle that form a “v.” how brilliant to place tiles in a chevron pattern… love.

{horizontal + chevron}

why stop with just one type of stripe? this mix and match of horizontal stripes and chevron provides a graphically interesting contrast. i am also liking the drum shade light fixture and the fabulous accent side chair.

{vertical stripes}

stripes can also be subtle, using tone-on-tone color choices. the stripes add a tailored look to this living room. and i love the backdrop it creates for the picture collection.

now if only painting stripes was easy…

**cmB**

dangerously delicious & decadent.

2011-08-29T13:02:00.001-05:00

summer isnt really summer without a bonfire and some s’mores. believe it or not i had not had a single s’more all summer! well, problem remedied.

this past weekend i enjoyed not only a s’more, but a new extravagant breed of s’more. a smoREESEs.

apparently, i am a little behind the times. smoREESEs even have their own facebook page: {reeses smores}. the recipe? a reese’s peanut butter cup, two or three bonfire toasted marshmallows, and a sheet of graham crackers. place reese’s pb cup between marshmallows and graham crackers. then enjoy!

so simple, yet so rich and delicious. if you’re a fan of reese’s and s’mores… you will love this campfire treat. i might even consider making these year round.

i heart smoREESEs!

**cmB**

brawny bachelor pads.

2011-08-25T22:42:00.001-05:00

after nearly a decade of living together, R and M will be moving into separate residences. one in chicago, the other in minneapolis. luckily, i get to decorate both the bachelor pads… here’s a little inspiration to start with.

{vintage sports}

i love this room. leather, metal, and vintage nostalgia. the leather couches look like worn footballs. i love the spot light as accent lighting. i am also a fan of the chandelier. and those old sports pictures on the walls… seriously, could there be a better man cave?

{black, white & gray}

nothing says sophisticated man more than clean lines and black & white. i enjoy the simplicity of this color scheme and the fact that you can throw in just about any accent color you want. how about them apples?

{earth tones}

this room features earth toned colors. the deep browns, oranges, and tans create an inviting feeling. i also like this seating arrangement… it sets the scene for enjoying a drink and some conversation. and i am guessing on the wall opposite the sofa is an embarrassingly large television (which is what a guy really cares about).

{classy}

i am not so sure about the statutes, but i really like the styling of this room. the striped side chairs add a traditional touch. the mirrors add some geometric pattern to the big wall. i think this room would be fairly easy to execute… the mirrors look like the basic dressing mirrors from target, the side tables & lamps are from ikea… now where can i get those side chairs?

will post the man caves once they are complete,

**cmB**

taming a wild dress.

2011-08-22T22:55:00.001-05:00

a couple weekends ago, i attended a jungle themed bachelorette party. i made an {inspiration board} to inspire my outfit…

{original dress from ambient attic}

of course, i found the perfect dress on {etsy}. i loved the mixture of animal prints and that it was something vintage. however, when it arrived it was just a bit too big. inspired by project runway, i decided to tailor the dress and give it a modern silhouette.

{altered dress}

well, i am not the most skilled seamstress, but i was so pleased with the results. i only made a couple of changes. i chopped off those long sleeves and instead sewed little cap sleeves. the other thing i did was cut out some of the skirt… it was so full, i want something slightly less poufy.

i copied the styling and paired the dress with a thick belt. and then added both black & brown jewelry. it was such a comfy dress, i wasn’t expecting to get a lot of mileage out of it… but now i am thinking that i will wear it again.

next up on sewing adventures… creating a dress from a pattern… stay tuned.

**cmB**

delightful dorm decor.

2011-08-17T22:47:00.001-05:00

well, it’s that time of year again… school is just around the corner! kids are headed off to college and it’s time for some dorm decor inspiration…

there are some things about the dorm room that will never change… it is too small, there isn’t enough storage, the furniture is ugly, you can’t paint the walls, etc. but that doesn’t mean that your dorm room can’t have personality. bring a cute bedside lamp, coordinate your bedding, add window treatments and art. (and keep thinking about the thrill of not living with your parents!)

if you & your roommate are willing to bunk beds or loft beds… you can gain so much space! and there is never enough space in your dorm room. pick a color theme with your roommate and coordinate accessories. how fun & bright to use orange and aqua.

not into bunk beds? i highly recommend lofting your bed to gain storage space underneath. as an adult living in an itsy-bitsy studio (350 square feet) i have my bed on risers and gladly enjoy the additional space to store things. and add window treatments! there is enough blank white space, adding some fabric drapes helps to soften all those hard lines.

i think it is important to add those home-like touches to your dorm room. you can’t paint it, but you can add an adorable area rug. and while you cant ditch that ugly dorm room furniture, you can spruce it up. take a look at those faux headboards made from burlap. it adds a personality to this room.

enjoy college kids! you will miss it when you are done,

**cmB**

vintage leather critters.

2011-08-15T22:30:00.001-05:00

last month, while on an antiquing trip in denver, i spotted this leather hippo in a little antique shop. it read “abercrombie & fitch” on the bottom… i knew i had to investigate.

these little leather guys are apparently english! when abercrombie & fitch was a department store, it stocked these leather animal footstools beginning in the 1960s. americans especially loved bulls and bears, which of course, symbolized the stock market.

{abercrombie & fitch catalog 1963}

{omersa} was the original manufacturer of these cute little animals. the first leather pig was made in 1927 by “old bill,” who made hand luggage from pigskin. he wondered what could be done with the left over leather. he came up with the idea of a stuffed leather pig footstool which he sold through liberty’s of regent street in london.

dimitri omersa studied under old bill and learned the leather trade and how to make leather pigs. when old bill retired, omersa decided to expand the range of animals from just pigs to rhinoceroses, elephants and donkeys. omersa also expanded his market overseas and the animals arrived in the north american market via a&f.

animals with the word "liberty" embossed on the underside of an ear are particularly valuable collectibles because they are part of an exclusive collection sold on at liberty’s. today, the hippo is the most popular animal, but it is closely followed by the rhino.

{omersa}

leather animal footstools can still be purchased via the {omersa} website. each animal is handmade to order. and the variety has only expanded… camels, sea turtles, and kangaroos are just some of the exotic animals.

now that i know the history behind these leather critters i want one even more!

**cmB**

jungle fever.

2011-08-11T22:45:00.001-05:00

i will be unleashing my inner party animal this weekend… at a jungle themed bachelorette party! putting together this inspiration board has made me so excited!

1) 80s vintage animal print dress. animal print reminds me of the 1980s and this vintage beauty sums it up. incorporating vintage pieces into my wardrobe is one of my favorites.

2) bebe colorblock snake ring. believe it or not animal print is still very in… this charming snake ring adds a little bit of sparkle.

3) the mad men® collection silk betty neck scarf. can’t commit to an entire animal print dress? how about an accessory… i am loving this leopard print scarf from the banana republic mad men collection.

4) serpent drop earring. i love how these snakes are slithering up.

5) deena & ozzy crossbody pouch. from urban outfitters… there’s is something so practical about a crossbody bag… your hands are free. but with this animal print there’s some spice added to the functionality.

6) 1980s valentino leopard print sweater. just one more reason to love the 80s. i would wear this in real life.

7) safari animal print bracelet. another fantastic etsy find. this piece features the artisan’s original photography of snakeskin, tiger fur, cheetah fur, and two different types of giraffe skin.

8) bangles wrapped in animal print chiffon. this would make a good DIY project if i can find the right fabric.

9) just cavalli stiletto. with this all over animal print, you can strut in style.

i’m going wild,

**cmB**

just another brick in the wall.

2011-08-09T21:07:00.001-05:00

one of my besties just signed a lease for a gorgeous loft with exposed brick. i am so jealous, as i have have always wanted to live in a place with exposed brick. luckily, my friend is willing to hand me the reigns when it comes to decorating, so i can live vicariously through her.

{vintage glamour}

this just makes me drool. i love the placement of the bed in front of the brick wall. the way the bricks curve makes me wonder if there was once a fire place. the crystal chandelier adds that contrast that i love, the glamorous chandelier contrasting the industrial brick wall.

{big art}

typically, lofts will have high ceilings and that means big walls… which are perfect for big art. i love oversized canvases. i very much like the color story in this room. the red bricks are tempered by a neutral gray and tan color palate.

{texture}

brick adds texture. these multi-colored bricks are divine. the mix’n’match of bedding adds to a layered, texture rich room. i love beds by windows… i would lay in this bed all day, content and happy.

{empty frame}

i like the idea of using an empty frame on the brick wall. the frame calls attention to the interesting brick wall, though this one appears to be a bit modern. i bet i could find an interesting old frame in the thrift store and make this a DIY project.

{shelves}

another decor idea i like is the open shelving. it’s a great way to make a brick wall more functional, while still showing off the beautiful material. i also love the combination of wood and brick.

**cmB**

a little {corny} inspiration.

2011-08-08T20:47:00.001-05:00

sometimes i just look at things and get inspired. today it was the corn i had for dinner. it’s no secret that i love yellow… and the combination of buttery yellow mixed with pale green seemed just too perfect for a summer decor palate.

{corn colors}

so, here is my blog post inspired by the colors of corn-on-the cob in home decor…

i love all the textures in this room. the wooden stump side tables, the woven wall decor, and the giant basket coffee table. yellow and green pair nicely against the neutral tans, whites, and browns.

the light fixture is what caught my eye in this room. i love all the pale yellows. this is a great example of how rooms don’t have to completely matching. here there are two very different side chairs, but they look great together.

what a fun bedroom. it that updated antique appeal. i love the old medal bed frame, the mix of antiqued linens, and the side table displaying old suitcases. this would make quite the charming guest room.

i cant tell if this is just the lighting of the picture or if it is intentional, but either way i love how the focal wall moves from a spring green into a yellow. all the white accents make the colors pop. perfect for a sun room or living room.

and here’s a modern take on our color scheme du jour. even though this is a basement, the yellow and green look bright and cheery. what a fun home theater.

yummy decor ideas!

**cmB**

homemade hand-lettered love.

2011-08-03T22:08:00.001-05:00

recently, i had two friends get engaged. i was honored to be part of their post-engagement celebration and can’t wait for their wedding! i wasn’t really sure what to get them as an engaged gift… i found this quote and decided to turn into a piece of art.

i loved the imagery of this quote… love as a sea moving between two souls... constantly changing. it seemed very fitting for my friends. i hand-lettered the quote onto a piece of sketch paper with a black sharpie pen and {letraset promarkers} in orange and sky blue (which are by far the best markers in the world).

i found the perfect frame at pier 1 with shades of oranges and blues. and i framed the work of word art. i am so pleased with the way it turned out, i think i will continue to hand-letter quotes. watch out! you just may receive one as a gift.

congrats L&A!

**cmB**

jess lc: design with intention.

2011-08-01T22:02:00.001-05:00

my new favorite designer comes from the midwest (chicago, illinois). jessica lynne constable set up {jess lc} to pursue her passion as a jewelry designer after completing business school. read jess’s bio {here}.

{soc-chic collection}

one of jess’s collection is the {soc-chic collection}. she has designed eight different necklaces, each with a unique positive message and promotion for a different non-profit organization. my favorite is the bright side necklace, which features a chrysanthemum, and promotes ccc scholarships (a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for young adult cancer survivors by increasing opportunity for college access).

{soc-chic collection}

here is another necklace from the soc-chi collection, the silver lining necklace. it’s a cute little raindrop pendant. this necklace supports team-in-training (where runners, walkers, cyclists, and triathletes participate in athletic events behalf of the leukemia and lymphoma society).

{astor two-tone cluster bib necklace}

besides designing a line of jewelry that does good while looking good… {jess lc} also has several other lines of necklaces, bracelets, and handbags. i love the {jess lc} style. it’s simple and elegant… the type of necklace you could wear everyday. i am crushing hard on this two-tone gem with clusters of dyed and honey jade.

{ainslie pearl cluster necklace}

and my minnesota ladies… you can purchase {jess lc} jewelry right here in minnesota at one of my favorites: {parc boutique} located in northeast minneapolis (320 east hennepin ave). you can also purchase {jess lc} on the website too.

jess lc- thank you for inspiration in starting your own business and making such beautiful things!

**cmB**

the smell of summer.

2011-07-29T13:51:00.001-05:00

as july fades into august…

…make sure to enjoy all the lovely things about summer. it is slipping away far too fast.

happy weekend!

**cmB**

keep on rocking.

2011-07-26T23:29:00.001-05:00

my friends rescued an old wooden rocking chair from goodwill. i instantly saw an opportunity to spice up the graying and splintering wood.

{inspiration}

i combed the internet for some inspiration. i found this adorable rocker featuring a gator and shades of blue and green. this was my jumping off point for my old rocker. the design has a little bit of whimsy, but it is not over the top.

{before}

here is the before… pretty much your standard boring rocker. it has seen better days… so i gave it a new personality for it's second life. take a look:

{after}

and this is my creation! i used two shades of aqua… one light, one dark. i added some white to the back rest and then highlighted with lime green.

{details}

i also painted the gator in lime green. i added some polka dots on the headrest to even out the composition… and presto! a good as new, hand-painted rocker.

what a fun project! i cant wait for the next one…

**cmB**

follow the signs.

2011-07-25T22:56:00.000-05:00

my friend is getting married in september in a quaint little country church outside of the small town where we grew up. even with googlemaps and a gps, finding this location can be a little tricky… all those country roads.

{lara} & i are planning on making some signs and placing them at various intersections to help guests negotiate their way to the wedding. i thought i would pull some ideas to inspire us…

i would love to have the last sign say “happily ever after starts here,” for when guests enter the church parking lot.

this makes me laugh… i think it would be fun to have the signs form some kind of poem or limerick similar to the old time {burma-shave} signs. the company would display six signs along the highway all featuring parts of a poem, for example: 1)within this vale; 2) of toil; 3) and sin; 4) your head grows bald; 5) but not your chin – use; 6) burma-shave. of course, we would have to make the poem wedding themed.

i would prefer to use scrap wood and upcycle something useless. perhaps we can paint them all similarly to match the wedding colors. so excited to create these!

i will be combing craig’s list for some wood,

**cmB**

beat the heat with citrus style.

2011-07-22T16:16:00.001-05:00

while a heat wave blankets most of the u.s. why not celebrate with some refreshing citrus style?

i love the brightness and vitality of citrus hues: lemon, orange, grapefruit, and lime. yum! celebrate the summer with one of these fun colored frocks…

{meyer meringue dress @ anthropologie}

lemon! my fondness for the color yellow make me impartial to this cheery citrus print. this dress is a little bit retro and has side pockets (another of my favorites).

{milly obelisk dress @ piperlime}

an orange pattern makes this little strapless number irresistible. (yes, it also has pockets). i am fond of the inverted pleat, it creates a nice silhouette.

{coral for one @ modcloth}

who wants grapefruit? the chiffon overlay is relaxed, yet, still refined. i love the ruffly rosette-adorned shoulders… so cute!

{coco california @ custard heart vintage on etsy}

of course, i had to incorporate a little bit of vintage… this late 1960s dress in sheer lime green organza with white polka dot & daisy pattern is adorable and cheery.

i ♥ citrus!

**cmB**

dreaming of dressing tables.

2011-07-19T11:43:00.001-05:00

over the weekend i went antiquing in denver. i loved looking at all the old furnishings and decorating pieces. one of the things that i was particularly drawn to was the antique dressing tables.

in case you wanted to know… here is a mini-history lesson. dressing tables originated in the eighteenth century in france. women used to wrap their cosmetics in linen cloth and store them in the dressing table.

dressing tables went out of style at some point (perhaps around the 1970s) because of the emphasis on minimalism and practicality. additionally, bedrooms in newer homes became smaller and did not have room for a dressing table.

what i love about a dressing table is the romance and glamour it adds to a space. it would be fun to acquire an old dressing table and restore it. i suppose you could also use your dressing table as a workspace… if you feel like a table where you put makeup on is just too extravagant.

a dressing room is a “place to indulge one’s fancies and compose one’s soul.” –akiko busch {from her book, geography of home}. what a delightful concept.

**cmB**

snips & snails & puppy dog tails…

2011-07-14T20:47:00.001-05:00

to follow up yesterday’s post {sugar & spice & all things nice...} which touched on some ideas for baby girl nurseries… here are ideas for those little guys.

{nautical}

gotta love those baby blues. there is something so soothing about shades of blue. i love the nautical theme in this room… probably because i love sailboats. they remind me of childhood trips to mackinac island, michigan.

{rustic}

i suppose this could be a gender neutral room, but i think the antelope head (even though it is fake) steers it towards the masculine. i am just smitten with that barn door headboard. and this color scheme is spot on: grays, tans, topped off with some orange.

{verde}

my applause for the lovely ladies over at {little crown interiors}. i featured one of their girl nurseries yesterday. i love their styling and in particular the artwork selections. what a delightful shade of green… it’s bright and sunny.

{circus}

back to the blues… i had to show this nursery because of the ingenious ceiling treatment. seriously… how fun is that? it literally looks like an awning… and the curtain matches perfectly. in a small room this design would seem way too busy… but this room is huge and shows it off perfectly.

{tans}

sometimes simple is the best way to go. this nursery uses shades of browns and tans. the white dots on the wall keep the room whimsical and play off the other polka dots in the fabric. a few puppy dog touches… and it’s complete.

**cmB**

sugar & spice & all things nice…

2011-07-13T22:59:00.001-05:00

it’s been a few months since lara & i wrapped our last nursery design project… and i think we are ready to take on another. we have successfully done gender neutral nurseries, but i would like to do some gender specific ones… so, here’s some inspiration for the girls.

{lilac & gray}

no matter how hard we try pink is associated with girls and blue is associated with boys… but if you want to design a gender specific nursery you aren’t limited to those clique colors. i love the lilac shade of purple in this nursery. it plays off the gray and wood tones well.

{coral & white}

i love the combination of coral and white… the contrast provides a bright pop. coral allows for the pale pink accents to seem more delicate. and that white fur rug on the floor looks luscious and cozy.

{yellow & red butterflies}

i think wall decals are a great idea for a nursery… they are easy to apply & remove. i love the bright mix of bright primary colors…

{lavender & lime}

in this sweet little room there are decals on both the walls and floor… how fun! i am going to guess that the fabric inspired the design for this room. that is a great jumping off point for inspiration.

{gray & chartreuse}

i suppose this a little on the gender neutral side… but i think the large white floral decals swing it just a tad girly. the mix of these colors and the stripe pattern is modern and fun.

**cmB**

emily chalmers: mod-vin style.

2011-07-13T00:04:00.001-05:00

emily chalmers is one of those people i wish i could be… emily is a london-based author, stylist, and the shop owner of {caravan}. her feminine-bohemian style is charming and irresistible.

{emily chalmers}

chalmers has a new book on the market: modern vintage style and i cant wait to get my copy. anyone who appreciates mixing styles will enjoy chalmers’s ideas. modern vintage, as chalmers defines it, is not about getting things perfect; it's about creating harmony with the mix and match.

{modern vintage by emily chalmers}

chalmers creates beautifully manicured homes with mostly flea market, garage sale, thrift store, and dumpster find. her interiors are inspiring in a casual way that reflects how people actually live… like bookshelves filled with books and trinkets.

{modern vintage by emily chalmers}

there is a lot of love in this room. you can tell by looking at the walls that this room wasn’t just thrown together. it was curated over time. that’s another theme from chalmers’ book… decorating is a labor of love.

{modern vintage by emily chalmers}

i love the mix of patterns in this room: polka dots, stripes, floral, patchwork. for anyone who’s ever received hand-me-down home furnishings… modern vintage style can help inspire you to put it all together.

emily chalmers: thank you for all the inspiration,

**cmB**

pretty purple posies.

2011-07-10T16:30:00.001-05:00

my mom is in the process of renovating her front flower beds (and the recent storm destroyed much of the progress). she wants to use purple flowers as the theme, so i pulled some ideas for her…

i love how these flowers flank the patio/walking path. this garden shows that there is quite the variety of purple flowers. shades vary from the cool hues to warm ones.

how lovely is this ensemble? the variation in heights of the plants create a perfect background. the yellow flowers add a little contrast and compliment to the mainly purple garden.

i like the purple flowers mixed with the white. the contrast between the two colors makes the purple look vibrant and alive. i also like the dash of cranberry colored flowers.

this is a neat idea… to use cabbage and red lettuces mixed in with the flowers. while this is cute, i wonder if it would survive the bunnies?

these purple poufs are my favorite. i like this collection of greens, whites, and purples. it appears balanced, but not boring.

feeling a little purple,

**cmB**

clean plate club.

2011-07-07T23:43:00.001-05:00

did anyone else belong to the “clean plate club” as a child? my parents always encouraged me & my siblings to finish all the food on our plates, enticing us with membership into the elusive “clean plate club.” this memory inspired me to look at plates as decor.

while decorating with plates is far from a new idea, i think the concept has been elevated and modernized a bit. instead of displaying collectors plates in a boring plate rack, you can take your average dinner plate and turn it into art. i like this cluster of blue and yellow. it creates dimension and adds a splash of color to a basic white wall. with plates, you can use a few…

… or you can use a lot! this large cluster of plates has big impact. using plates as wall decor is an inexpensive way to create wall art. typically, one can pick up old plates at the local thrift store for a bargain. plate wall hangers are typically the easiest way to attach a plate to a wall (and those can be found at your local craft or hardware store).

i love this little ensemble. all the whites plates placed together to serve as the canvas for a rooster. i know one person who has an extreme fondness for roosters {ceh}, who should definitely consider making this a DIY project.

i like how these plates stack and overlap… however, i am not quite sure how to accomplish this layered look. all the shades of blue and white create movement in the ensemble.

clean plate club member since ‘90,

**cmB**

banana goes mad.

2011-07-06T20:02:00.001-05:00

yes, that’s right. banana republic is partnering with mad men to launch a capsule collection inspired by the sixties outfits the cast wears on the show.

{mad men} is based in the 1960s and features a fictitious advertising agency in new york. the show has received accolades for its historical authenticity and visual style.

mad men costume designer, janie bryant, and banana republic creative director, simon kneen, teamed up to design the 65 piece collection, which includes clothes and accessories for both men and women. items will carry co-branded labels bearing the logos of mad men & banana republic.

so, what exactly was 1960s fashion all about? bryant states the 1960s was a transitional period in women’s fashion: hemlines were becoming shorter, there was gathering at the waist, jackets were getting a little more square cut, and the pillbox hat was mainstream. bryant adds that many of the pieces she brought to the banana line came directly from the show, both new and vintage.

while the line is influenced by the mad men look, it is intended to reflect the sensibilities and fit requirements of contemporary fashion. i like the silhouette of the skirts… full and easy going. i am also a big fan of the model’s hair styling.

the mad men collection will launch mid-august. i cannot wait to go back-to-school shopping and nab some of these pieces. i am particularly fond of the rusty cranberry dress on the right end… i think it might be the perfect attire for a fall wedding.

madly,

**cmB**

amy butler’s hourglass pillows: jungle style.

2011-06-30T19:39:00.001-05:00

this spring, my partner-in-crime, {lara}, designed a nursery themed on the jungle. before we started the project i ran across this fabric at {crafty planet}, one of my all time favorite fabric stores.

the nursery features the silhouette of a large giraffe… so, this fabric… with all sorts of little jungle critters, seemed to good to be true. so, i scooped up a couple yards of the fabric in both the large and small design.

{amy butler design}

i wasn’t sure exactly what i was going to do with the fabric, but then i came across the {amy butler hourglass pillow pattern}. i loved the way the two fabrics were juxtaposed. and a free pattern? why not.

and here is how my hourglass pillows turned out! i just love them. i gifted them to my friends, the proud new parents of a little baby girl and the nursery. amy butler has a few other free patterns on her website and many other for sale… i will definitely be using a few for my next projects.

**cmB**

pretty pinwheels.

2011-06-29T22:18:00.001-05:00

i love pinwheels. they remind me of summer time. pinwheels add whimsy to almost anything…

{pinwheels in the park}

what a fun idea for a photo shoot. i love all the colors added with the pinwheels. cute ensemble on the model too.

{pinwheel mobile}

this is a fun idea too. pinwheels as a mobile. it would be twice as much fun if the pinwheels turned…

{pinwheel cakes}

how sweet are those yellow pinwheels cascading down the cake?! or a cute pink pinwheel cupcake topper… pink pinwheels would be a fun idea for a party theme.

{pinwheel pillows}

this might be my favorite pinwheel creation… throw pillows! i love the details. the different fabrics and unique buttons. this is going on my DIY list for sure.

{pinwheel headband}

what a charming headband. in red, white, and blue this little number would make the perfect 4th of july accessory… looks like i better rustle up some felt.

{pinwheel light fixture}

how gorgeous is this light fixture? i love how all the pinwheels are brought together to create a new shape. i bet the light refracts on the various angles and looks like a sparkly diamond… divine.

loving pinwheels,

**cmB**

upcycled fences: not your typical picket fence.

2011-06-24T00:45:00.001-05:00

this morning, i walked past a gentleman installing a white picket fence near my apartment building. this got me thinking that fencing is pretty standard. so, i decided to hunt for some creative fencing that deviates from the typical white picket.

{tin roof fence}

i came across this fence made from pieces of tin roof. i love all the texture and colors, even the rusty ones. the consistent size and shape of all the pieces keep the fence cohesive.

{ski fence}

here’s a creative fence make from old skis. this is such a clever idea… skis are made to endure extreme weather conditions and terrain, so it makes sense that they would be a sturdy fencing material.

{wheel fence @ dahmen barn}

this fence stole my heart. it is made of more than 1004 wheels ranging in size up to 60 inches in diameter. the wheel fence is located in washington state on a farm. steve dahmen started building the fence in the 1950s. when people heard about what dahmen was doing they started sending him wheels for the fence. it’s a great piece of outdoor art.

{surfboard fence}

more of a beach bum than a snow bunny? well, you can use surfboards much the same way as the skis were upcycled to create a fence. very fun and colorful.

{wine bottle fence}

and if sports equipment isn’t your thing, chances are you have glass bottles. this fence is made of wine bottles! i wonder what happens when the glass breaks…

{bicycle frame fence}

this last fence follows the sports theme… it’s created out of old bike frames. quite interesting.

has anyone seen any fences made from usual materials?

**cmB**

bracelets: stack them up & layer them on.

2011-06-21T23:30:00.001-05:00

i am quite fond of the idea of layering bracelets. when it comes to clothing i almost always dress in layers. i am one of those people who is always cold or hot or something… layers provide flexibility.

i have seen many people layering necklaces lately and i started thinking that bracelets are easy to pile on…

layers of bracelets create dimension and texture. and the bracelets don’t even have to match. the combination of textures, colors, and styles is visually interesting.

layer a lot of different bracelets together to really experiment with size and color. and you can get completely different looks by mixing and matching the pieces.

you can easily create a bold accessory by increasing the volume of bracelets.

i also like the idea of layering bracelets over a watch. i often struggle with the decision to wear a watch or a bracelet… i think now i will just wear them all.

**cmB**

love affair with chartreuse.

2011-06-21T01:02:00.001-05:00

lately, i have been falling in love with chartreuse. it’s no surprise since chartreuse is a close relative of yellow… which you might have noticed that i like… a lot.

chartreuse is a lovely shade of warm green, reminiscent of celery and pears. i die for this elegant chartreuse gown worn by drew barrymore. i love the softness of the fabric and the drape and the gather. it is just too beautiful not to swoon over.

as might be expected, my color crushes usually cross from fashion into home decor. i am loving this chartreuse headboard. it’s soft and tailored. the color pops against the white bedding.

the lace appliqué on this chartreuse cocktail dress adds fabulous detail. i like the contrast of the black and chartreuse. i wish i had some more summer weddings where i could wear a bright beauty like this.

while this look might be a little bold for some, i think it is simultaneously fun and sophisticated. the neutral gray furniture keeps the chartreuse walls from being too obnoxious. mix with some black & white photography, splash in some gold accessories… and voila… a home office that is serious without being boring.

this coat would warm up even the coldest of days… i am a huge fan of the oversized collar and ruffles. these details add drama to the already bright chartreuse color. i am going to have to hunt this one down…

feeling chartreuse,

**cmB**

reviving furniture: painted love.

2011-06-14T23:30:00.001-05:00

i rescued a side table from the dumpster the other day. i was looking for a taller table to serve as a night stand and this one popped into my life. the table is mission style and pretty beat up, but it was free, so i am searching for some clever painting ideas to give it a second life…

of course, i am contemplating yellow. i love the two shades of buttercup used in this dresser. one of the reasons this bright color scheme works is the charm of the dresser. it has details that really pop when painted. my table is pretty standard, no fun details to embellish.

here’s another lovely antique piece done up in aqua blue. i have been a little bit obsessed with mixing aqua and mustard in my apartment, so this is definitely a possibility. again, i just love the details of this antique piece.

i think gray is also a contender. i really like how the matte gray color is overlaid with a simple white lattice pattern. this might be a good way to spice up my boring table.

or perhaps this two-toned idea could work. i love how the gray and white are used to create a statement and draw attention to the details of the dresser. and i love the old hardware. {my mother has a fantastic antique dresser set similar to this style… perhaps one day she will gift them to me).

another take on the two tone concept that might be easy to execute on my night stand table. one color on the table top and another on the base and legs. i like how the blue is on the bottom half of the table. it helps to anchor it and create a more substantial feeling to a simple desk.

and you simply can’t go wrong with a white. whites look fresh and clean and will revive any piece of furniture. i have previously painted a dresser white and a bookshelf antiqued white… so, i think i might be ready for something a little more adventurous.

**cmB**

pouf: inspiration.

2011-06-13T19:45:00.001-05:00

you might recall that i was super excited for target’s {calypso st. barth poufs}.

sadly, these poufs were whisked off shelves and out of stock, before i could get mine. still craving a pouf… i found a good {DIY guide} and i am going to try my craft skills at creating my own. for now… here’s some inspiration:

i LOVE whites. and check that view out… wow. the moroccan-themed side table ties in the pouf ottoman. i also am infatuated with these simple casual curtains.

the texture of this pouf reminds me of a sea urchin or some other kind of sea creature. the juxtaposition of the soft wool with the cut of the jagged shapes creates an eye catching accent piece.

sky blue & lime… what a lovely color combination. this looks like a fun kid’s room and gender neutral.

i will keep you all update on my DIY pouf adventure,

**cmB**

pretty picnic.

2011-06-09T19:02:00.001-05:00

summer is the perfect time for outdoor eating… so, find yourself a basket and a blanket and plan a pretty picnic.

i saw this adorable picture of a vintage-themed picnic and decided to pick out an imaginary outfit to wear. i love the soft green of the vintage soda bottles, so i found a dress to pick up that hue. then i paired it with white and wicker to complete the pretty picnic look.

now all i need is a picnic…

**cmB**

summer sips: strawberry lemonade.

2011-06-06T21:38:00.001-05:00

if you need another reason to love summer, besides the sunshine and warm weather, try making this fun fruity drink… {spiked} strawberry lemonade… one of my favorite summertime beverages.

it’s a super easy recipe that you can whip up for any occasion. you will need the following ingredients:

frozen regular or pink lemonade concentrate

2 cups cold water

2 cups club soda, sprite, or 7up

1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped

2 cups vodka (optional)

lemons and strawberries for garnish

in a large pitcher, make the lemonade concentrate according to the directions on the package. in a blender, puree the pint of strawberries with 2 cups of cold water. stir the strawberry puree into the lemonade. add 2 cups soda and 2 cups vodka (more or less if desired). stir well to combine and refrigerate until well chilled. pour over glasses filled with ice. serve garnished with sliced lemons and strawberries.

bright. fresh. tangy. fruity. delicious.

**cmB**

a fashion history lesson: affordable clothing.

2011-06-02T23:33:00.002-05:00

i dont normally do this… but i am going to direct my readers over to etsy’s blog {storque} for an interesting post on the history of a cheap dress. the post is well written and interesting. i have put together a quick summary…

{the history of a cheap dress}

about 100 years ago, women would pay over $600 for a parisian knock-off. and now the latest fashions are available for deals. according to jan whitaker’s book service and style, a ready-made knockoff of a french “lingerie style” dress started at $25 ($621.50 in today’s dollars) at marshall field’s in 1902. you were better off learning to sew your own clothes…

{the history of a cheap dress}

by the 1950s, quality ready-made fashion was within the reach of the middle-class. a woman could get style, quality, and affordability. fast-forward and the cost of producing clothing has continued to drop. as clothes have become cheaper, clothing consumption increased. in 1930, the average american woman owned an average of nine outfits. today, we each buy more than 60 pieces of new clothing on average per year!
to continue reading, check out the full article: {the history of a cheap dress}.
the etsy article is written by elizabeth cline is a brooklyn-based writer and activist working on a book about responsible shopping in the age of cheap fashion, you can follow the her project at {the good closet}.

**cmB**

make paperwork fun!

2011-06-01T18:34:00.001-05:00

no one ever said work has to be serious all the time… take a look at these fun shaped paper clips…

{midori d-clip paper clip}

i love little details and that’s exactly what these animal shaped paper clips are. fun little details that will add just a bit of whimsy to your work day.

{midori d-clip paper clip}

and they are completely functional and sturdy, so they are highly reusable. there are 17 different shapes, mostly animal themed, but some holiday and floral ones too.

{midori d-clip paper clip}

see how this little pup makes this boring old receipt just a little more fun… these would also look adorable on an invitation.

{midori d-clip paper clip}

these little crocodiles are my favorite! i know one office manager who is going to get an inventory request for these little guys.

later gators,

**cmB**

get the look: memorial day.

2011-05-26T23:04:00.001-05:00

memorial day honors american servicemembers. commemorating those who died while performing military service for the united states.

so, why not honor those servicemembers and be a little patriotic this weekend? bust out some red, white, and blue, americana style!

{ruched hourglass top by anthropologie}

how about this cute little polka dot top from anthro? i loved how it is ruched in the midsection… perfect to disguise that belly full from barbeques.

{wide stripe linen blend scarf by ann taylor}

this is the perfect summer scarf. made of linen, so it is light weight. and in beachy blues… i love.

{grazer mid-rise jean by urban outfitters}

and just in time for summer, these cute jeans from urban really top off that red, white, and blue patriotic look. also, they would be cute with about a million different summer tops.

{vintage christian dior sunglasses on etsy}

and to top it all off, how about a pair of vintage christian dior sunglasses. i love how the tan fades into black. memorial day often marks the start of the summer vacation season, so here’s hoping for some hot & sunny summer weather this weekend!

**cmB**

color inspiration: pool side.

2011-05-25T19:56:00.001-05:00

there’s no better way to spend memorial day weekend than outside. i am hoping for a nice weekend to lounge by the pool and work on my tan…

{pool side color inspiration assembled by the style handler}

in anticipation of the weekend, i thought i would make a color inspiration board using this sweet pool side shot of sunglasses… i like the contrast of oranges and blues in home decor.

if we take a stroll back to elementary school art, orange and blue are complementary colors. in color theory, complementary colors when mixed together produce a neutral color (white, black, or gray). and what that means aesthetically, is that when complementary colors are placed next to each other, they make the other appear brighter.

this is one of david bromstad’s designs from his HGTV series color splash. he took an old buffet and painted it an amazing pool-inspired shade of blue. i love the idea of painting an antique a bright color, it makes it modern. i love this room (especially the chandelier & the lucite dining chair) but, i could live without the dog painting.

bold move to go with an orange couch. probably one ends up with an orange couch in a similar fashion with how my brother ended up with his lilac purple couch… hand-me-down. however, this living room is a great example of how styling can make just about anything work. the aqua blue accents, especially the pouf. the contrast of the two colors helps make the couch seem less obnoxious.

i love the deep peacock on the walls. and that orange banquette is awesome. it just pops right off the wall. i also am fond of the idea of vertically stacking pictures… it really draws your eyes up the wall.

here’s hoping for pool party weather this weekend!

**cmB**

spring in full bloom.

2011-05-24T22:56:00.001-05:00

cherry blossoms are an iconic symbol that spring has arrived. i have enjoyed the recent warm up in weather and the eye candy that nature provides.

using this natural beauty as inspiration, let’s take a look at how some have incorporated cherry blossoms into home decor.

this white cherry blossom decal adds some fun & whimsy to this entry way. i am also a fan of this unusual wicker chair… very interesting and looks comfy.

what a fun bathroom. the contrast between the marble tile and the cherry blossom wall paper. it is an interesting way to combine new & sleek with a vintage motif. i also am a huge fan of antique bronze fixtures in bathrooms.

i am in love with bedroom! the wallpaper is graphic and floral all at the same time. the combination of grays, silvers, and lavender is beyond lovely. and a chandelier? i am ready to move in.

what a fun idea for a baby nursery. i suppose it could be considered gender neutral, but i think the floral blossoms tend to lean more on the feminine side. i love this mix of colors.

and of course i have to throw in some mustard yellow. this cherry blossom wall decal plays off the floral bedding. simple wooden headboard, i love.

welcome warm weather!

**cmB**

mustard + teal: fashion edition.

2011-05-18T20:38:00.001-05:00

so, yesterday i gushed about the color combination mustard and teal. i covered home decor, but after thinking about it these colors are just as great in clothing as they are in home decor. (and let’s be honest, it’s a lot easier to change your clothes).

how darling is this skirt? i am starting to warm up to the idea of high-waist skirts and pants. i love the smooth silhouette of the skirt… and the mustard shirt… love the combo.

i am still on the hunt for a pair of mustard colored heels… {if anyone has seen a pair recently please let me know where}. this dress is a simple wrap dress from merona (i heart target).

don’t wear bold colors? try a fun accessory. these earrings display my new favorite color combo and the floral motif adds some feminine flair.

i am wild for the pleated details on the skirt. throw in a yellow bag and some tall camel boots… this is my kind of look.

**cmB**

my new color combo crush: mustard + teal.

2011-05-17T21:43:00.001-05:00

mustard yellow is one of my all-time favorite colors. and what girl isn’t a fan of tiffany blue? for some reason it has never has never occurred to me to pair these two colors together… until i saw this lovely bedroom.

i love the way that the warm mustard yellow pairs with the cool teal. they compliment each other well. i am also digging this vintage metal bed. a coat of paint can give just about anything a fresh, new lease on life. this bed frame is reminiscent of my childhood bed (except that was only a twin).

discovering that i liked mustard & teal, i started looking for more inspiration. this bold wall acts as the perfect backdrop for these slipper chairs. the throw pillows add a nice pop of color and tie in the rug. i would take this whole set-up in a second.

mmm… more mustard & teal. the neutral whites and beiges help create unity between the two colors. what a clever little ottoman. i think one of the keys to making this color combination work is to pick one (either yellow or teal) to be your main color. then use the second color sparingly to create color pops.

hello, graphic wallpaper. i love all the shade of teal. and that light fixture looks like it is made out of vintage christmas lights. fun!

what a sweet little nursery. the yellow paint makes the crib look brand new. and it just pops off the aqua wall. i also like how some pinks and reds are mixed in. this is such a great example of how non-matching elements can come together.

love {re}discovering colors,

**cmB**

DIY results: a mobile for baby k.

2011-05-13T13:26:00.001-05:00

back in february i put together some inspiration for baby mobiles, check them out: {here}. well, i finally got around to crafting a mobile.

{the inspiration}

this lovely baby mobile by frazier & wing available at {fawn & forest} was my inspiration for creating a custom mobile for the nursery that lara of {yellow*vintage} and i recently designed. there were a couple of reasons i was draw to this particular design. first, i love the simplicity of the shapes and that they are layered on top of each other. second, i also like that the long cylinder shape of the entire mobile. finally, i love how the mobile has a whimsical vibe to it.

{the result}

and in the corner is my mobile creation in the nursery especially designed for baby k (you only get a preview of the completed nursery design… more to come). let’s zoom in a bit.

[i apologize for the poor picture quality. i forgot my SLR and had to use my blackberry]. i followed the same basic idea as the frazier & wing mobile with a few stylehandler adjustments. i used mostly white cardstock with a pop of aqua at the top. i also used slightly smaller shapes in my design.

this is a closer view of the shapes i used… circles, squares, diamonds, octagons, and even a fish. i strung the shapes on clear, sturdy craft string and anchored each shape in place with a clear bead. i hung the five strings of shapes on thin metal disk, which i covered with ribbon to soften its appearance.

and here’s the view from the bottom up… how i assume baby k will see the mobile. if you look closely you can see the yarn pom at the top, which is one my favorite parts. i am so happy with the way this project turned out… i might just make a mobile for all my friend's babies…

**cmB**

things i love: jade & marchesa.

2011-05-11T21:28:00.000-05:00

i saw this amazing dress from the marchesa spring 2011 line and i fell in love. it’s lovely…

i love how the soft flowing dress relates to the jade beaded top of the dress. it is a great illustration of how opposites can compliment one another. and marchesa knows a thing or two about making beautiful garments.

and this to-die-for jade beaded clutch? i love. there is something delicate about the color jade that draws me to it. and intricate bead work, what can i say? it’s all in the details.

jaded,
**cmB**

savage beauty.

2011-05-09T21:35:00.001-05:00

new at the met is a special exhibit alexander mcqueen: savage beauty. the exhibit features approximately one hundred ensembles and seventy accessories from mcqueen, who passed away last february {fashion will miss mcqueen}. the exhibit runs may 4 through july 31, 2011.

{grey & white chiffon}

the exhibition celebrates mcqueen’s extraordinary contributions to fashion. one of aspects that draws me to mcqueen’s work is the presentation of contrasting opposites. many of the themes and ideas that mcqueen explored were polarized opposites: life & death, lightness & darkness, predator & prey, man & machine.

{the horn of plenty, autumn/winter 2009–10}

even the title of the exhibit, “savage beauty” toys with the concept of opposites. some people might look at mcqueen’s work and think that it can’t be fashion. to me, mcqueen was an artist whose medium of expression was fashion. mcqueen often called himself the “edgar allen poe of fashion.” he challenged and expanded the understanding of fashion beyond utility to a conceptual expression of culture, politics, and identity.

{ensemble, dante, autumn/winter 1996–97}

mcqueen was known for referencing fashions and silhouettes of the 1860s, 1880s, 1890s, and 1950s. but his associations were exaggerated, which kept his designs intriguing and forward looking. i love the sharp peaks of the collar contrasted with the delicate lace overlay.

{sarabande, spring/summer 2007}

i love the fusion of nature and fashion in this piece. mcqueen takes a flower bed and turns it into a ball gown… this is a classic example of mcqueen’s genius.

{voss, spring/summer 2001}

mcqueen was also well known for gothic themes, particularly the darker side of the nineteenth century, of victorianism. i cannot get over the fact that this dress is made of feathers. the cut of the back is stunning and dramatic.

{widows of culloden, autumn/winter 2006–7}

the texture of this dress is remarkable. i love the flowing layers contrasting with the tight bodice… so lovely. i might just have to schedule a trip to nyc this summer to check out this fabulous exhibit. to learn more the savage beauty exhibit check out the {met's blog}.

inspired,

**cmB**

[photo credits: all photos are from the metropolitan museum of art]