Inspiration : Ruffles!

It's been a long time, but last night I actually took the time to paint my nails. I was getting lazy there- doing the natural thing for a long time, but a pretty grey-purple polish color caught my eye at U.O. not too long ago, and I decided to finally use it. That, incidentally, inspired me to wear this ruffled grey top today that I haven't worn in ages. So the next thing you know, I'm curling my hair this morning, wearing lip gloss, and wearing a brooch! How did that happen? Funny how one little ounce of effort can turn into a complete make-over! I'm feeling girly... and I'm kind of digging it. Ruffles and frills- here I come!

1. Ruffle Pillow | 2. Upcycled Rose Necklace | 3. Ruffle Clutch | 4. Fringe Dress | 5. Floral Hair Comb |  6. Ruffle Linen Tote

This Anthropologie-inspired shirt can be hand made yourself! Check ou the DIY instruction HERE.

Inspiration : Noir Design Please

With this abrupt change of weather in Los Angeles, my wardrobe has had to adapt rather dramatically. I've been wearing shorts and brightly colored, light fabrics just about everyday before this. And now, I'm digging through my closet for dark heavy fabrics that were almost forgotten about until now. I never thought I would miss the cool weather because I'm a Summer girl at heart, but I'm kind of loving these pretty warm fabrics and colors. I've collected some nice little images via etsy that I thought might fit my new wardrobe and can accompany this weather that I, suprisingly, find myself welcoming with open arms. This selection is inspired by the dramatic Film Noir era- I love the dark, rich fabrics and simple understated elegance, don't you? 

Adorable vintage inspired outfits by Liza Rietz

Hats by Liza Rietz | Shawl by Tickled Pink Knits | Gloves by Angelina Designs

Bag by Edwian Reinspired | Bookmark  by Jules Wow | Earrings by Nancy Wallis | Hair Pin by SumikoShop | Candleholder by Zenchanted Garden

A Place For A Journal

In a high-tech world, we can sometimes forget the charm that comes along with a simple journal or notebook. Blogging is a resource many of us have used to get our thoughts out there- something I've fondly jumped on the bandwagon for- however, there is still something quite wonderful about picking up a book and jotting down my thoughts, scratching words out, doodling on the edges, and not worrying about a power outage or pushing the wrong button - resulting in a horrifying loss of my heartfelt writings and memories. Theres also something so refreshing about writing something out by hand- it's this great physical release of anything thats been churning around inside your stressed out mind. Whenever I feel like I'm getting off track with my life or i'm worrying too much about things, writing those thoughts out always seems to help. I highly recommend starting a journal for yourself- even if it's only writing one sentence a night. It can make a difference in the way you think about yourself- especially when you go back to read your thoughts later.

Journals from Painted Fish Studio

Save your spot with the Journal Hook from Sleek Identity.

Come On In!

Hello hello, and welcome to my home! Today I'm going to take you on a tour of my humble abode. I used my little Casio camera, so these shots are by no means professional, but you'll get the idea. You can check out my new Flickr photostream to get the full tour!

 

The Sunday Lamp

Norwegian design company Northern Lighting has a collection of distinctive lamps inspired by the moods in Nordic nature using simple natural lighting mechanisms. I was especially drawn to the Sunday Lamp (perhaps it's because I love weekends so much) but I also love the functionality of it: a light bulb/ candle holder/ side table. It's clever and beautiful- just the way I like things.

DIY: Succulent Tea Cups

It's FRIDAY! Plans for the weekend: pick up my Oraganic Veggie Box, hit up the FYF Fest, help the BF finish up putting together his new place with some possible thrifting, a BBQ with friends on Labor Day... and suprisingly- I think I may have some down time in between! Nice. That means I have time for this- a little project I found on the blog Epherriall Designs... it's this great little DIY Succulent Teacup window garden. This will be perfect for my office- which at the moment has absolutely no plants in it, one large concrete wall, and a view of a Circle K across the street. What can I say? It's pretty amazing. But, I think it could use a little decor- and this idea sure will freshen up the space. The great thing is, it's very inexpensive and easy to do. Succulents are about a $1.00 each at your local garden store (or you can even try the 99¢ Store, they have them there on occassion) and cool vintage tea cups are super easy to find at Thrift Stores. So here it is guys, the simple succulent tea cup garden... Have a great weekend!

Tiny Spaces : Big Design

If given the option to live in a tiny apartment located in a prime part of town- or a mini mansion constructed in the suburbs- I would have to go with the first option. And, I don't think I'm the only one... A lot of us are opting for smaller spaces in order to be in the city- namely expensive cities like Los Angeles where a one bedroom in Hollywood can run you about $1,000 a month. But that's okay! There are plenty of creative ways to get our lives a little more compacted. Take a look at some lovely examples of spaces who are used to their full potential- all found on apartment therapy's Tiny Spaces Contest!

Ten Tips for Small Spaces from Apartment Therapy

1. Remove your interior doors (use curtains instead on closets and doors).

2. Replace your big refrigerator with a smaller, undercounter model. It's more than enough room.

3. Treat yourself to a really good small vacuum (we heart Meile).

4. Use track lighting aimed at walls to free up floor space and create an expansive feeling.

5. Install lighting inside closets so you can see whats in there. They will be easier to maintain and you will gain the feeling of more space.

6. Clean your windows often so that more light comes in and your gaze is not blocked.

7. Buy really good cookware, tableware and linens (small luxuries go a long way).

8. Go wireless and transfer all your music to your computer. Sell all your CDs!

9. Use full spectrum light bulbs to energize and enliven your home.

10. Have lots of dinner parties. People socialize better in small spaces and social homes are better kept up.

This Weekend : FYF Fest

This Saturday in Downtown LA, The FYF Fest will be taking over Los Angeles State Park with a day full of fun including amazing musical performances (including one of my favorite bands: Local Natives,) comedy, a record swap meet, raffles, art installations, carnival games, vintage clothes, food trucks and more. That's definitely where I'm headed (on the metro of course)- with sunscreen and water in hand because it'll be heating up to the mid-90's!! whew!

Terrain Fall Decor

If you guys haven't checked out this site- it's a total must. Terrain is an awesome shop with everything from restored vintage pieces, to beautiful terrariums. They just released their new Fall line- and being as it is my very favorite season- I'm thrilled! Take a look of some of my favorite items from their new collection:

Escape to Sicily

An important part of my job, along with designing invitations, is searching for specialty gifts from all over the world. While doing this I research countries and the wonderful objects people like to collect from those regions. Sometimes I can't help but get lost in all of the beautiful photos I see and imagine myself vacationing in these places some day. There are very specific aesthetics specific to each country that are important to be aware of during my research. For example, a gift from Thailand is going to look a lot different than something from Cambodia because of the differences in artists and resources from each region... Today I wanted to share some images from the stylist Adriano Bachella who is very familiar with world travels and his designs stay true to the regions he visits. Here are some examples from his portfolio of Sicily, Italy where white and teal take center stage in home decor. It's a beachy feel with warm, organic accents... definitely a place I can see myself visiting someday :)