behaving nicely

Illustrative Goodness

2010-07-15T14:50:00.000-07:00

Ginette Lapalme is a goddess.

Party Party!

2010-06-28T11:16:00.001-07:00

Who says you can't find a reason to celebrate? Garlands and pinata by Confetti System.

Matchbox Love

2010-06-25T11:22:00.001-07:00

Amazing work by Pavel Fuksa. Lyrics to a song narrated on matchbooks, so gorgeous. Check out the music video here.

Forever Is Today

2010-06-18T12:55:00.001-07:00

Gorgeous photos of vintage items arranged by color over at Forever Is Today.

Hello Gorgeous!

2009-12-14T15:38:00.000-08:00

East West Parrot Jacket / High-Waisted Denim / Vintage Plaid Shirt

Sheer Dolman Dress / Chanel Belt

YSL Blazer / Dior Sweater / Navy Slacks / Emerald Green Dolman Dress

Patchwork Pattern Shirt / Garnet Velvet Blazer

Jeweled & Sequin Shirt / Leather Shorts

Recently finished a photo shoot for Goodbyeheart.com at the Lost Art Salon and the images came back so beautifully! Photos were taken by Brandon Joseph Baker and styled by yours truly. All the looks will be available on the site shortly. Who says it's hard to wear vintage?

In Unison

2009-11-18T14:30:00.001-08:00

Who can resist a deal on these gorgeous linens with Turkey day around the corner? Now through Nov 26 @ Unison. Promo code THANKS25

Endless Beauty

2009-11-11T13:34:00.000-08:00

Incredible paper mache finger puppets by Pelpa on Etsy. Even more to be seen on her blog.

Ribbon Bow

2009-10-02T11:32:00.001-07:00

Guys, even though I'm only a smidge crafty, these bow themed projects make me want to start buying gobs of ribbon. (pics via martha stewart weddings)

APiece Apart Of My Heart

2009-10-01T16:20:00.000-07:00

Madly deeply in love with APiece Apart.

World Shopper

2009-09-28T14:16:00.000-07:00

Needless to say I am slowly rising above the mounds of work I have been buried under. So let's take a moment (while we have one together) to be insanely jealous of this guy's job and his coinciding sundance channel T.V. show.

Flipping for Filip Pagowski

2009-09-10T11:36:00.000-07:00

Very cool interview with the illustrator Filip Pagowski the genuis behind the COMME des GARCONS PLAY logo.

Pretty Posters

2009-09-10T11:30:00.000-07:00

Angela's The Boss

2009-09-10T11:04:00.000-07:00

Betty

Rosa

Some serious Angela Adams Rug love.

Samesies

2009-09-01T17:27:00.001-07:00

Jonathan Adler Marrakesh Rug
Pottery Barn Bridget Rug

Interesting, huh?

Planning

2009-09-01T16:47:00.001-07:00

My latest Halloween costume obsession for the little one. Although, the mustache might read a little strangely if she takes off the hat...

Shoulda. Coulda. Woulda.

2009-08-31T16:48:00.000-07:00

Thakoon Bougainvillea dress

Stella McCartney seagull print skirt

I've got a serious case of non-buyers remorse. I feel like not owning these pieces will haunt me for the rest of my life. Ugh, when did I get so responsible?

2009-08-25T16:07:00.000-07:00

Dear Sigerson Morrison cuffed knee-high boots, lets get married. xo.

Shoe Blues

2009-08-25T14:46:00.000-07:00

I really enjoy this print by Kelly Lasser. It makes me so glad I am no longer in college. Those were my frozen pizza bagel dinner days.

Tell Me About It...Stud

2009-08-25T14:37:00.000-07:00

Skulls

Pyramids

Hearts

Lovely stud earrings by Michelle Chang Jewelry.

Anna Sui-te

2009-08-13T10:00:00.000-07:00

Gorgeous and gothy images of Anna Sui's second apartment (she has two in the same building) via Elle Decor.

Trouble With A Capital 'T'

2009-08-11T10:11:00.000-07:00

Oversized Blazer (LR exclusive)

Ramona Snap Pump (LR exclusive)

AAAAHHHH! Loeffler Randall has updated their site! Now you can shop like we aren't in a recession! All kidding aside, the new site features web exclusives that you won't find anywhere else. Not to mention more eye candy than my beating heart can handle. (Thanks for the tip Claire!)

X's and O's

2009-08-10T13:34:00.001-07:00

Love Me (2 pillow set) by chakrapennywhistle.

Add this to the tippy top of my want list.

This Is Not My Beautiful Wife

2009-08-10T13:27:00.000-07:00

I pretend I'm David Bryne when I present my work.

Vanilla Bug

2009-08-10T13:12:00.001-07:00

hello
again
sweet
nice

Great stuff @ Vanilla Bug.

Affirmation

2009-08-07T11:09:00.001-07:00

Poster by Pistolready82

Favorite Purchases

2009-08-07T10:59:00.001-07:00

I bought this Celebration Candle Kid for my little one's first birthday. I plan on making it a family tradition at our house to use this beauty for our very special celebrations. By The Small Object.

Mary Mary Why You Buggin?

2009-08-07T10:50:00.000-07:00

Diamond Hunter Biggie

Shield Canvas Bag

Saraha Pants Jumper

Must haves from Mary Myer.

Because I Can

2009-08-06T10:28:00.000-07:00

Poster by Hugh Macleod

I’m trying something new today: more words, less pictures. In the last 24 hours I have stumbled upon two things that have really got me thinking about how delicate and complex creativity can be. I should probably be more specific. As is briefly mentioned in that side bar over there, I’m a copywriter. I get paid to write advertising. At times it has been glamorous, and other times not at all. But what has remained true throughout my career is that whatever I write, (unlike this blog), will be read by millions of people. If I think about that too long it still can be paralyzing.

Do people need the things I am selling? Not always. Do any of the millions of people reading my stuff know who I am, even a little? Definitely not. But I keep doing it because I love the process. Well, I love the beginning of the process where it’s all ideas and possibilities. I love the scribbling, and the yelps of excitement when we’re on to something great. That’s why I do it. But does any of it really matter?

I’m toying with the idea that it isn’t necessarily the job that matters, it’s that you’re good at it, really good at it. And that’s why I love the This American Life interview with legendary copywriter Julian Koenig, he’s 88 years old and probably one of the most influential copywriters in the history of advertising whom, as he says it, just wrote “really short sentences.” Now there’s some humbling perspective.

Mocuin SALE!!!

2009-08-05T16:54:00.000-07:00

This one is for all those fellow textile design lovers like myself! Mociun is getting their little online store spiffed up for Fall and letting us in on the action. Incredible steals on pieces that are, in my humble opinion, sure to be heirlooms. Hurry and shop while they last!

Rodarte For Target

2009-08-05T11:13:00.000-07:00

Now THIS should be interesting! Debuting at a Tar-jey December 20th, the Mulleavy sisters will throw a splash of avant garde in with all the other crap I can't resist shoving into my shopping cart when I make the bi-annual pilgrimage to the Daly City Target. Can't wait to see how they interpret their gorgeous aesthetic for the masses. Images from Rodarte's Fall 2009 collection.

Gilt-y Pleasure

2009-08-04T09:26:00.000-07:00

Nina Ricci Sweater

Nina Ricci Dress

Nina Ricci Skirt / Top

Nina Ricci Coat

I am a Gilt Group e junky, and I am not alone. All the ladies in my office started getting to work suspiciously on-time just once we were all addicted. None of us wanted to miss the morning email letting us know what was on sale each day.

Today among the discounted designers is Nina Ricci one of my absolute favorites. I like to imagine that if I were a Parisian lady of leisure she's who I would be wearing. And Vanessa Bruno, and Isabel Marant and...oh I could go on forever.

Wanna join Gilt Groupe? Click on this invite link!

RRRRRuffles My Feathers

2009-07-27T15:30:00.000-07:00

Phillip Lim @ La Garconne

Luella @ La Garconne

Built By Wendy

J Crew

MCQ @ La Garconne

Narwhale {Etsy Search}

2009-07-23T13:34:00.000-07:00

Sian

Fanfareandfoofaraw

JennSki

Who doesn't love the unicorn of the sea?

I think I'm going to make this an ongoing thing. Let me know if you have any search suggestions for next time.

Whoa There Elly Nelly!

2009-07-23T12:01:00.001-07:00

bunny hop

Giraffe's have long necks

These are the wall decals I have in my home. It took me awhile to decide if I was a wall graphics person but then I found Elly Nelly and couldn't resist. I have those adorable bunnies in my not-so-perfect kitchen and the giraffe in the littlest's room.

J'aime Paris!

2009-07-23T10:34:00.000-07:00

Lovely things made by Rose Patate in Paris. Available here.

I'm Just Mad About Saffron

2009-07-16T13:06:00.001-07:00

My latest shoe obsession can be found here.

My current skirt lust can be found here.

Oh AND! Take an additional 40% off sale stuff at Kate Spade PLUS free overnight shipping on some items. Deal City! (Ends July 21)

Oh Coco!

2009-07-08T11:30:00.000-07:00

Satine still has 'em

Alexander Wang's Coco bag has hit the internet and you better believe I am dreaming up ways to come up with the money to buy one before they sell out.

Zero Maria Cornejo

2009-06-30T16:57:00.000-07:00

wow, just wow. buy it here.

Vacation No More

2009-06-30T10:21:00.001-07:00

I was away on a little vacay with the fam but now, I'm back! And I've got a little something for ya:

Hayden-Harnett Big Bang Sale

Crushing On: By Malene Birger

2009-06-12T15:03:00.001-07:00

See the collection here. Buy it here (the sale section is on fire!).

Between Book Ends

2009-06-12T10:54:00.000-07:00

A couple books I am currently smitten with: Bugs in a blanket and Sometimes I think, Sometimes I Am.

That's My Middle Name Too

2009-06-08T17:11:00.001-07:00

Great stuff from Joleen Chrisman at Little Paper Planes. Especially needing those day-glo Navajo print cards. Yee ow! See more of her work here: joleen-marie.com

We Love You So (Spike)

2009-06-05T16:40:00.001-07:00

It is hard to imagine all the inspiration Spike Jonze needed to create the 'Where The Wild Things Are' movie. Luckily for everyone who might be interested there is a blog about just that. WE LOVE YOU SO. And when you're there watch this and wait for your heart to explode into diamond tear drops.

Looking At Books

2009-06-05T11:24:00.000-07:00

A very intriguing review of 'Grey Gardens' the book.

Lambs Ear Shoes

2009-06-04T14:13:00.000-07:00

Kiyomi Kimble Skull Scarf (on sale!)

Hi Pretty

2009-06-02T11:17:00.000-07:00

Ladies in SF you won't want to miss out on this: Hawt on Yelp (50% off at amazing salons and spas around The City June 8-14).

Don't Shoot The Messenger

2009-06-02T11:14:00.001-07:00

La Garconne is having their Spring/Summer '09 sale.

'And You May Ask Yourself'*

2009-06-01T13:21:00.000-07:00

'Am I right? Or am I wrong? And you may say to yourself my god,' How can I live with out this rug? (*Pardon my shameless use of Talking Heads lyrics.)

Sale Alert!

2009-06-01T11:14:00.000-07:00

Totokaelo just put Rachel Comey on sale.

Can I Get That On Paper?

2009-06-01T11:07:00.000-07:00

Lovely paper products by SusyJack*

You Snooze You Lose

2009-05-29T14:41:00.000-07:00

A few things you probably can't live without from Snoozer Loser NY.

Farmers Market

2009-05-29T14:31:00.000-07:00

Very inspired by this asparagus salad recipe.

Hey Baby

2009-05-29T10:26:00.001-07:00

I dream about having all these things in the little one's bedroom. We've got the crib, which I can't gush enough about, and the bedding, which is adorable. Sigh. I really need to win the lottery.

ferm living fairy flower wallpaper

oeuf classic crib

dwell gio bedding in lemon

oeuf mini-library

dots rug

Before I Was Classy

2009-05-28T09:56:00.000-07:00

Retainer Necklace

When I was in high school I had the great pleasure of living next door to a very good friend who at one point had a retainer. I never had any kind of mouth apparatus growing up, in fact, I used to pretend I had a retainer by bending paper clips and slipping them over my front teeth. Anyhow, one day I spied his retainer holder and without a beat opened the box and shoved it into my own mouth. It didn't fit but man, was it awesome.

This Charming Man

2009-05-28T09:34:00.000-07:00

Tord Boontje @ Generate Design

I am an enormous Tord Boontje fan (HUGE!). Even though others have tried to capture the whimsy of his laser-cut pieces no one ever comes close. I love everything about his work and have accumulated quite a collection of his designs for the home, but now I can wear them too! I have no shame when it comes to charm necklaces, I pile them on like Mr. T. So thank you Tord, for making affordable ($39) charms for any necklace, wallet, or keychain I have that might need sprucing up.

Cut It Out

2009-05-27T16:13:00.000-07:00

1970s Cut-Out Knee High Boots

I can't tell you how much I wish my foot was an 8.5. These are a perfect example of a vintage find being totally current. Make them your own at goodbyeheart.com lucky girl.

No-brainer

2009-05-27T12:12:00.001-07:00

I spy a replacement for all those 'Keep Calm' posters framed on mantles around the country. Kate Miss you've got a winner!

R U In LA?

2009-05-27T12:09:00.000-07:00

jealous.

Pattern Passion

2009-05-27T12:02:00.001-07:00

Mociun

Fremont

Sunshine & Shadow

I'm So Predictable

2009-05-27T11:28:00.000-07:00

I am dying over the Ann Wood (of Ann Wood Handmade) house tour over at Design Sponge.

Hammertime

2009-05-19T16:39:00.001-07:00

Pixie Market

Lately, I've been weighing in on whether or not to embrace the harem pant. At first I was thinking they reminded me too much of 'Hammerpants' in a bad way. And then I found this little get-up. Too cute! Hopefully, people won't take offense when I say "you can't touch this"over and over and over again.

Tulle Good To Be True

2009-05-19T14:27:00.000-07:00

Bonzie's shop

I have nowhere to wear this, but I would be happy just to open my closet and see this tulle shrug staring back at me.

A-Okay

2009-05-18T17:04:00.000-07:00

wayfarer style sunglasses

I am very excited to share this nugget of coolness with you: Oak NYC has added a little supplement to their collection of lust-worthy apparel, a section where everything is under $100. The recessionista in each of you can thank me later.

Contributor Collaboration

2009-05-15T16:34:00.000-07:00

Seems like every hot designer has a hook-up with a huge retailer these days. And like all fleeting relationships some work out (Viktor & Rolf @ H&M), and some don't (Sigerson Morrison @ Target). For the record both of those mentioned designers are my faves, so no hurt feelings k?

Anyhow, I am really loving Rachel Comey's footwear 'Contribution' at Urban Outfitters. The prices can't be beat and they look close enough to her own line that you could whisper the part when you say they are from UO.

the sandal

the oxford

Needs Vs. Wants

2009-05-15T16:19:00.000-07:00

These are torturing me. Want Want Want!

opening ceremony wedge

Short(s) Stop

2009-05-15T14:37:00.000-07:00

I have finally been convinced that summer is indeed near-ish and with a trip to Hawaii in my near future I went a little wild in the shorts department. Here's where I landed.

18th amendment west shorts

eskell ikat shorts

manisse nyc bloomer shorts

No Small Feat/Feet

2009-05-15T13:52:00.000-07:00

I consider myself a little more sentimental and nostalgic than most, but for the life of me I can't get a baby book together for my perfect little girl. A whole year has passed and we've taken a million pictures of her, but all those milestones that flew by, I never got around to writing them down. I know, I know... But I bet I could do this! A mold of her little feet contained in a well designed package is just the keepsake I've been meaning to get to--eventually.

a+r store

And Then I Died A Little

2009-05-15T13:24:00.000-07:00

I am so amazed when I'm just clicking around the internet and then BOOM I find a wealth of delicious home candy. Feast on these:

I am a huge sucker for intricate prints and this Josef Frank chaise gutted me.

But before I could recover I was hit over the head with these tray tables designed by Margot Barolo and Märta Friman (which are covered in Josef Frank fabric).

By the time I got to the fruit basket textile designed by Stig Lindberg I was a shell of my living breathing self. I've since recovered but man, was it worth it.

Splash Mountain

2009-05-13T15:55:00.001-07:00

There is so much baggage when it comes to trying on a bathing suit that I kind of try to avoid it at all costs. But this year my post-baby body will be rocking this incredibly gorgeous bathing suit by Bantu and feeling really, really awesome by osmosis.

Vintage Without The Mothballs

2009-05-12T16:18:00.000-07:00

Probably the most amazing collection of incredibly hard to come by vintage leather you'll ever see is now housed at goodbyeheart.com. Worth every penny my friends. Worth. Every. Penny.

Kissing Koi-sins

2009-05-12T16:14:00.000-07:00

Just think of all the stories you could make up about this bracelet.

Half Passed A Freckle

2009-05-12T16:08:00.000-07:00

I don't know why I fight it. All I really want is a hot pink watch.

Nothing But Blue Skies

2009-05-12T16:02:00.000-07:00

Guys, I am fully on the Stella McCartney cloud bandwagon. This dress is dead gorgeous. Thanks net a porter .

Indie Mart!

2009-04-23T12:00:00.000-07:00

Struck by textile attraction

2007-11-20T15:03:00.000-08:00

It's official I'm infatuated. Her name is Lara Cameron, she's an Aussie and man her affordable textiles make me swoon. She has a lovely blog about her work here. The line is called Kirin & Co and can be purchased on etsy here. But be swift my friends, when the textiles get put up in the store they are sold in hours flat.

Missing in action

2007-10-02T11:27:00.000-07:00

Sigh. I've been busy.

Madison Harding Secret Sale

2007-06-01T12:55:00.000-07:00

When it comes to footwear I am forever loving anything that looks like the shoes my mother wore when I was a kid. That is why I will admit my undying love for Madison Harding, two girls from Brooklyn poised to make their mark on the footwear world.

(Images borrowed from the Madison Harding look book)

Here's the deal-- they are offering 30% off on these select styles and colors. They are limited quantities so get your orders in quick! (Colors in photos not necessarily the ones with discount, color mentioned in title.)

Knotted Rope Heel

Original Price: $172
Sale Price: $120

Black Wooden Diamond Wedge

Original Price: $172
Sale Price: $120

Close Toe Canvas Wedge-Navy

(Featured in Nylon Magazine June/July 2007)

Original Price: $220
Sale Price: $154

Open Toe Canvas Wedge-Navy

(Featured in Lucky Magazine, May 2007)

Original Price: $220
Sale Price: $154

Metallic Flat

(Featured in Lucky Magazine August 2007)

Original Price: $128
Sale Price: $90

To order, please email your requests to: sales@madisonharding.com. You must include the following code to receive this special offer MHSP2007.

Je'mappel Sylvie

2007-05-22T15:17:00.000-07:00

Sylvie was my "French name" during my two years of French classes. I used to daydream about mousse au chocolat and the Seine while practicing my pronunciation. Now I just daydream about being able to afford to shop at La Garconne. Oui, oui.

Fluffy Co.

2007-05-22T14:26:00.000-07:00

I admit it, I am a bit biased when it comes to San Francisco. I really like it here. Which is why I am always a little extra excited when talking about local stores and designers. With a little storefront on 14th street Fluffy Co. offers a bevy of silk screened t-shirts and accessories. But what I really like are these wall hangings with hooks.

Silk screened and painted in San Francisco they also come with non-marking removable adhesive tabs so you can stick them wherever you see fit.

This one would look great with necklaces hung on it.

This one would look great in your entry way for your car keys.

And these equally perfect bottle openers would look wonderful attached to the outside of your refrigerator.

Prices range from $18 to $28 dollars for the wall hanging hooks. Go check them out!

Pretty Much Just Giving It Away

2007-05-16T15:21:00.000-07:00

So I have this heart necklace I've been wearing for the passed 4 years. People ask me about it all the time and I always direct them to the place I bought it and kind of cringe because the price has gone up so much since I first purchased it.

Which of course, is what happens when something becomes desirable. And really I should be super happy for the the designer (Jane Hollinger) because it means she is doing well. You can buy one for yourself here.

So imagine my delight when I came across Sprout Jewelry and saw these similarly inspired necklaces at a very attainable price.

Hello silver bubble necklace for $28.

(Image borrowed from Sprout Jewelry)

I sure would like to get to know you Beach Pebble necklace in silver for $18.

(Image borrowed from Sprout Jewelry)

These silver circle earrings might even convince me to start wearing earrings again for $11.

(Image borrowed from Sprout Jewelry)

I Wear Black On The Outside

2007-05-15T16:31:00.000-07:00

Nothing inspires a black dress search like a dose of the Smith's 'Unlovable'.
So without further adieu...

See by Chloe at Factory People.

I do love a pretty scalloped detail.

Jumper by Eskell:

Very nice buttons, even.

And lastly, an option not to be forgotten. I bring you the 'flapper dress' by the incredibly talented Erica Davies for Development.

Flor-ed by Zooty Tooth

2007-05-15T12:40:00.000-07:00

It's true, my house will never be completely finished. I look at photo shoots of beautiful homes in Domino and I think, "how long have they had their furniture arranged that way?" and "how often do they switch out their artwork?" This impatience probably stems from moving so much. I've been a nomad my whole life. In the last few years though, I have been working toward my own definition of permanence. But it sure is hard not to keep spiffing things up.

Meet my new living room carpet.

Thank you Flor for putting Zooty Tooth in grey and cream on sale for $6.99 a tile. When these beauties arrived the boy let out a sigh. He knew he'd be wrangled into laying these babies down, with my help of course.

We have used Flor before and we love it. We have wood floors so they work especially well. I have never had any slippage or unhappiness with them. The Zooty Tooth looks so amazing in the living room, the whole room appears so much lighter and bigger now.

Here it is in black and white for $9.99 a tile. Tres chic:

The blue and brown is lovely as well (also on sale for $6.99):

ed note: Dear Flor, please do not discontinue Zooty Tooth it is truly your best tile, in my humble opinion.

Cat Rocketship

2007-05-11T11:45:00.000-07:00

It's pretty gloomy out today so I've started hunting for art to take my mind off of the grey skies. Art is something I have been thinking about a lot lately. Mostly, that I want to invest in an original piece of art that I love. Believe me, I have indulged in the offerings of Tiny Showcase and Little Paper Planes for their affordable limited edition prints.

But if I saved up and could buy this Cat Rocketship painting on glass:

(Image borrowed from Cat Rocketship)

This woman is extremely talented. (I bet Cat Rocketship is even her real name!) Cat's work is available in her Etsy Shop and she also accepts commissioned work.

(Image borrowed from Cat Rocketship)

All of her paintings are on glass and can be hung with mirror hangers that attach directly to the wall. Just think of the possibilities colored walls as background would make. Even wallpaper would add another interesting dimension behind her lovely work.

(Image borrowed from Cat Rocketship)

She has something for everyone-- including hippos.

(Image borrowed from Cat Rocketship)

Cat Rocketship is definitely one to keep your eye on.

Kendra Binney

2007-05-11T11:23:00.000-07:00

In a windowless studio in Portland, Oregon dwells an artist named Kendra Binney who's artwork is truly magical.

(Image borrowed from Kendra Binney)

"Raised in a small mountain town with no shoe stores. Most of her time was spent barefoot treading through the miniscule world of spiders, snakes and all things hiding in the grass. She transfers this closeness with the small and obscure into her paintings. Through scenes of dripping landscapes and insecure, vulnerable characters, she illustrates a world draped in memories, remorse, and fragile realities. Seen through pastel washes and shiny candy coatings of resins, her works evoke both nostalgia and contempt. They are at once gentle and cruel, sweet and unsettling."

(Images borrowed from Kendra Binney)

(Images borrowed from Kendra Binney)

Her artwork is available on her personal website and in her Etsy shop.

(Images borrowed from Kendra Binney)

Another reason I should be crafty

2007-05-10T10:57:00.000-07:00

I am always walking the line when it comes to home decoration. My instinct is to be over the top feminine, but I live with a boy who, although very accommodating, probably wouldn't enjoy living in a pink palace. So I try to keep him in mind when I am selecting throw pillows and rugs with tree branches growing across them.

Today, I am inspired by post written by the purl bee about something she calls 'swatch portraits' that is so ingenious I think I may do it myself.

(Photo borrowed from the purl bee)

Embroidery hoops have never looked so beautiful.

(Photo borrowed from the purl bee)

On her blog she gives a step-by-step guide about how to assemble these beauties. My favorite part is that it requires vintage fabric swatches, trips to the thrift store (for the hoops) and Elmer's glue.

I don't think the boy will mind too much.

One for the treble two for the Dace

2007-05-09T16:26:00.000-07:00

Ladies, I know you aren't ready for this, but I am going to blow your mind.
Dace does dresses you can afford.

You also need this Dace sweater:

Oh, and don't miss the sale section. You're very welcome.

F-Troupe

2007-05-07T13:38:00.000-07:00

It's hard to go shopping with your mate. There are never enough stores that give equal attention to both male and female collections. This is why I adore F-Troupe. Their shoe collection is perfection and they have something for the ladies as well as the gents.

For example, how will I survive another day of sunshine without these? Available online at Oak.

They also come in a high-heeled version.

F-Troupe doesn't disappoint in the non-canvas department either.

And for the gents, feast your eyes on these simple yet, charming canvas shoes.

Oak also carries both of these men's styles here and here.

You have to love a company with a sense of humor. Apparently, F-Troupe has made it possible to make your own moccasins. Available here. So awesome.

Three-legged and proud

2007-05-07T11:38:00.000-07:00

When it comes to lighting I am a sucker for the floor variety, and while I own two arc lamps, I would be most likely to purchase a tripod lamp if, you know, I had to.

I'm not going to Vanessa Williams you and save the best for last. This little yellow number is my favorite and pretty affordable at $169.99. Available here.

Next is the prolific Jonathan Adler's take on the tripod. The base is has a bamboo texture to it. Quite nice for $350, available here.

(I am just going to mention that I visit the Fillmore Street JA store whenever I am feeling stuck decorating-wise, I leave feeling a lot less serious about furnishing my home.)

West elm gives you an option with an elongated pendant shade for $149. Available here.

And last but not least, who can resist this mum pendant shade? Available for $299 here.

A million beautiful pieces

2007-05-04T14:11:00.000-07:00

I have never actually been to Hotlanta (god, did I just type that?), but I have heard lots of good things about it from Ludacris. And he's probably right based on what my search for the perfect chartreuse pillow (don't judge) turned up.

Pieces is an incredibly edited home store in Atlanta owned by a designer named Lee Kleinhelter (who I can only say has better taste than me and is seriously gorgeous).

Anyhow, you MUST visit this store, online or in real life. It is quite spendy, but very inspirational.

For instance add a Josef Frank print pillow to these vintage oval tub back chairs and you are living in an Anthropologie photo shoot.

Another reason I need a back yard is for a hanging rattan chair like this one she's got.

Her accessory section is full of Hable construction pillows

And wonderful lighting. (I fell in love with this owl lamp he'll look great in a tux at our wedding)

Looks like the store is updated pretty often so check back for more goodies.

Tucker everlasting

2007-05-04T13:44:00.000-07:00

The title of this post is a tribute to one of the best reads of my 6th grade year. Tuck Everlasting. A book dealing with the very real issue of family and the fountain of youth. Man it was good. But this isn't a post of me rehashing my A+ book report, oh no this is about fashion.

Behold Tucker:
The amazingly talented people at Refinery29 have an article about Tucker, a line designed by Gaby Basora out of New York. She took on creating the perfect, feminine blouse with an obvious panache for vintage, and I am just floored by her genius.

I also love the styling. (Some folks don't like high-waisted trousers, I love them.)

Just look at the drape of these blouses. Pure perfection. You'll look like you didn't even try to look this gorgeous, you just woke up that way.

Check out her dresses and tunics as well. Simply beautiful. Available online here and here.

GOLDENBLEU Sample Sale

2007-05-02T14:07:00.000-07:00

The lovely ladies at GOLDENBLEU are having an sample handbag extravaganza at the W Hotel in San Francisco.

Here are the details:
When: Monday May 14th, 2007 from 6-9 pm
Where: W Hotel, San Francisco (XYZ bar and lounge area)
Address: 181 3rd Street

How's your art hangin'?

2007-05-02T10:22:00.000-07:00

There comes a time in everyone's life when you stop affixing your band posters to the wall with Blu-Tack. Maybe it was after you bought coordinating bedding, maybe it was after Jane's Addiction broke up, or maybe it was when you lost everything in The Great Break Up of 1999. Whatever the case may be, how to hang artwork can be a pickle.

People often recommend the Ribba at IKEA as an inexpensive frame option. It comes in a few colors and a variety of sizes but what if you need something bigger?

Recently, I purchased a roll of hand printed wallpaper, it is 28.5" inches wide and 118" long (luckily I have very high ceilings). Domino magazine would have me make a giant frame out of bamboo or something, but I am thinking a much more reasonable idea would be a poster hanger by Jorgen Moller.

The poster hanger is super simple to assemble and not totally obvious--which is just what I need for my wallpaper roll. Rare Device carries a few sizes and uses this wallpaper poster by Hanna Werning as an example.

(Also, Hanna Werning is totally amazing just click around on her site)

J'aime Manoush

2007-04-30T14:01:00.000-07:00

The name of this beautiful label means gypsy in French. And while the word gypsy brings up visions of The Last Unicorn and lots of bracelets for me, I'll add whimsical and bohemian to my memory mix. I love all the details and the nod to vintage fabrics and silhouettes. All of these pieces can be found on Net-A-Porter.com.

Elevate an otherwise understated outfit with this striped lurex jacket.

This is a nice twist on the average bib front tank.

My jacket collection is begging for this lantern sleeve jacket.

And nothing could beat this perfect Lantern sleeve dress.

Biomega Bikes (ed. note: I don't know a ton about bikes, but I sure can spot a pretty one!)

2007-04-30T10:26:00.000-07:00

When I was in elementary school I lived in an apartment complex filled with kids. We all walked home together and played freeze tag in the courtyard until our parents came home from work. We also had a communal bike. It was a small BMX that we left in the ivy bushes when we were done riding it around. The bike didn't belong to any one of us, and the ivy, well it was just where we kept it. Those were good times.

Now, I am going to just say that this post may be lacking in bike lingo. And this only matters because I know a few people who love, love bikes. This post might be more articulate if they posted it, but they aren't so here we are. (sorry dudes)

biomega is a collaboration of super-star designers making bikes. Marc Newson, Ross Lovegrove, Karim Rashid, Beatrice Santiccioli, Jens Martin Skibsted and Vexed have all contributed to these amazing feats of design in motion.

Witness for instance the Brooklyn (not available in stores) which is an amusing take on my communal BMX bike.

Just look at those tires! I could have had my friends make a pyramid and ride over them with ease if we had shared this beauty.

Next is the Boston an homage to you east coasters.

The Copenhagen is the sexiest of the group. Just look at those lines. Also the option for light blue is a huge plus.

There is also the Amsterdam in his and hers versions. Available through Design Within Reach.

Ordering information is available on the biomega site, as well as a store finder for a brick and mortar place to check them out.

Table escapades

2007-04-27T16:33:00.000-07:00

For our wedding last year we were fortunate to receive a set of bowls from the Tord Boontje tablestories series.

It was really a lovely surprise because I had fallen in love with them and never put them on my registry. My love for Tord is another post all together, needless to say we rounded off our tablestories collection with a set of 6 glasses.

Since then I have been searching for equally whimsical placemats. And let me tell you it's been tough. I do like these spun ones by Chilewich

These frog placemats at Unica Home are also pretty fantastic.

But I think these placemats by Modern-twist are my faves. I don't know where I can buy them yet though.

Guess I'll have to be patient.

Oh, sunny day

2007-04-27T12:12:00.000-07:00

I'll admit it, San Francisco has fog. For some people this is a problem, for me it is just another reason to wear a pretty sweater. Occasionally though, we have these perfectly sunny days where I could care less that my office is across the street from a tourist trap .

Today, is one of those days and I'm feeling generous. So here you go, my no-fail, adds a skip-in my step outfit.

When I found this sweater at Anthroplogie, I kind of felt like the stars aligned and I should buy a lottery ticket.

(You'll look as pretty as this lady in this sweater for sure.)

Things got even more intense when I found these AG jeans.

I am kind of denim-snobby, probably in reaction to my college years spent in high-end retail. So finding these beauties that didn't even need alterations convinced me that I was being rewarded for all the elementary recesses I stayed inside to practice reading my phonics books.

(Another benefit of living in the fog is being able to wear boots year-round.)

I usually finish this outfit off with my Loeffler Randall Bertie boots. Not too shabby.

zebrawood love

2007-04-27T11:23:00.000-07:00

I have a way of accumulating things. I fall madly, deeply in love with objects. I tell people that it is limited to chairs and lamps, but between you and I, it extends to clothes, shoes and bedding.

Today's obsession came from a totally unexpected source overstock.com. Now before you dismiss my discount shopping, I give you this beautiful zebrawood end table for $89.99. I look at it and I think, "we can have a relationship, I'll take you home, we'll be 2-gether 4-ever."

They are by Lay-Z-Boy so I have a feeling T odd Oldham had something to to with them. (Oh, Todd I'll never forget the time you taught me how to re-cover a chair with a DIY splatter painted canvas, a staple-gun and some ingenuity on House Of Style.)

Further searching revealed these lovely zebrawood dining chairs. Which make me think "You'll look so good in our Sears holiday photo." $129.99 for two.

(but do me a favor and skip the burgundy rug)

Virtual Decoration

2007-04-24T16:44:00.000-07:00

I wish I had a gazillion dollars to decorate my house with. Right now I am thinking about how my bedroom metamorphosis would turn out if I didn't have to save up for everything.

Let's start with bedding. This much I have already accomplished. Dwell really put my heart a-flutter with their chinoiserie collection so it was pretty hard to choose, but I finally settled on the Camellia duvet. A pattern that proves that grey and yellow were meant to be. TLA even (true love always in yearbook scribble).

Next on the wish list would be the lovely Quinn chair from Room and Board. I sure wish my legs were that sexy.

And while we are appreciating the beauty of form and not worrying about affordability I wouldn't mind a "black box" by Claire Sarembock for the wall. Drooling.

An outfit or a room is only as good as its accessories, so lets throw in this lovely print by Ashley G too! Available here.

A lamp with one of these nature-y shades by Nicolette Brunklaus from Rose and Radish would be perfect as well.

Now if I could only think of a rug to tie it all together....

The Big Eyes Of Margaret Keane

2007-04-24T15:15:00.000-07:00

When I was single my room was pale pink with white lacquered furniture. A dressed up room for the girliest of girls with my most coveted Margaret Keane print on the wall.

Most people think of Margaret Keane's big-eyed children paintings, but I was way more into her paintings of women. In the 60s Margaret Keane was all the rage. A San Francisco artist, she actually sold her artwork under her husband's name, Walter Keane. (Why, I am not totally sure). Luckily, all bad things run their course and they divorced. Afterwards, she wanted full rights to all of her artwork. Walter was a stubborn dude, and lied that the paintings were actually done by him. So Margaret, probably sick of being under Walter's thumb filed a lawsuit, and took her case all the way to Federal court. Eventually, she and her soon to be ex-husband were ordered to a paint-off!

I've heard that Walter Keane said he had injured his shoulder so he couldn't paint, but Margaret settled the whole she-bang by painting one of her signature big-eyed children right there in the courtroom. Well done Margaret! She's still painting and living in Hawaii, but one of my favorite places to visit in San Francisco is the Keane Eyes Gallery across the street from Ghiradelli Square. You have to call to make an appointment but it is well worth it.

Crouching Coffee Table, Hidden Dragon

2007-04-24T14:36:00.000-07:00

The crowning jewel of our first apartment was white panther with a glass top resting on its shoulders and haunches. The beast belonged to our dear roommate and coupled with our pinstripe slipcovered couches it was a style we now call shabby-porn or cottage-lair.

Today, we are living without an albino panther in the living room (or roommates for that matter) and our thrift store purchases have become more refined than anything that requires a slipcover. But thinking about our first apartment always reminds us to not take our living space so seriously.

That's why we love these spider and snail cross-stitch kits we found at the Curiosity Shoppe. Inspired by the prolific linoleum-block nature artist Gwen Frosic each kit includes pattern, embroidery floss, needle, 2 pieces of cross stitch canvas, plus the 2 woodblock prints that originally inspired the pattern.

Once framed we think you'll find they're granny in a good way, and organic in a modern way. For $20.00, you'll get the pleasure of pointing them out to your guests (I made that!) instead of praying they don't notice your messy closet. Available here.

The folks over at the Curiosity Shoppe are San Franciscans who also have a fun web journal called Smarts & Crafts where you can be inspired by all the revolutionary crafting going on out there. Make sure you check them out.