Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Pumpkins With Style

Typically I'm not usually a fan of anything with "bling" but I had to make an exception for this adorable fall decorating idea -- and just in time for Halloween! Undecorated pumpkins will always be a classically recognizable decor item for Halloween and fall, but could benefit from a bit of added personality. Carving a pumpkin is fun every once in a while, but if you ask me it's not worth the sticky mess. Instead of carving, gather a few fun crafting items to easily add a little extra style to your pumpkins. Use stick-on gems, glitter, buttons, or lace to create a custom design. Check out the inspiration below and get bling-ing!

Photo: Good Housekeeping
Photo: Gordon Gossip
Photo: Oopsey Daisy
Photo: Wild Ink Press

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Casual Weekend Outfit

Anyone who as ever gone shopping with me knows that I usually shop with one thing in mind... comfort. If something is not comfortable it'll end up sitting in my closet unworn until I reluctantly get rid of it. And by comfort I don't mean that you should be wearing sweatpants and a hoodie all the time (well sometimes, but not always!). In my opinion, for clothing to truly be comfortable, it should flatter your figure, contain as much natural material as possible, and never, ever be too tight. Your wardrobe should be something that makes you feel like the best version of yourself. Here's an example of my ideal, casual weekend outfit.

Casual weekend outfit


J Crew long sleeve shirt
£120 - net-a-porter.com

J Crew t shirt
$35 - net-a-porter.com

J Brand chino pants
£78 - theoutnet.com

Sperry boat shoes
$50 - sperrytopsider.com

Marc by Marc Jacobs leather tote
£470 - matchesfashion.com

Rag Bone straw fedora
$125 - net-a-porter.com

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Fun Photo Framing

Personal photos are a great, easy way to make a space your own. I love to have photos around, and I'm constantly searching for ways to add a bit of originality to them without spending a ton of money. Purchasing a simple inexpensive frame, and replacing its matting is a great way to personalize your photo collection. Mat your photos with a map, old book page, or newspaper cutting for a classic, vintage look. Choose a map that relates to the photo for an extra personal touch. Or for a more feminine feel, create a mat that's covered in lace (so pretty!).

For a simpler style, choose matting in a solid color that coordinates with the photo. Using burlap is a great way to incorporate texture through a single color. Mix and match different types of matting within a collection of frames for a unique, eclectic look. Or keep it subtle by matting all of your frames with the same color or material.

Gather your matting materials from a craft store, or swing by a local second-hand shop for one of a kind items - you never know what you'll come across!

Martha Stewart Weddings
Emily Clark
Martha Stewart
Sarah Nielsen
Just Another Day in Paradise

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Decorating for Fall

Hands down, fall is my absolute favorite season. I love going apple picking, and enjoying the comforting smells of homemade apple pie, hot apple cider, and freshly made donuts. Each year I somehow forget how beautiful it is to watch the leaves turn colors and fall from the trees. So, naturally I love decorating for fall too. With a variety of items that are unique to the season, it's easy to beautify your home for this time of year.

Placing candles here and there is a great way to warm up a space while incorporating a hint of fragrance (my favorite fall scent is spiced apple!). Arrange a few freshly fallen leaves around a candle for a pop of color and an extra touch of fall. And don't forget pumpkins, the fall decorating staple. Mix traditional orange pumpkins with white pumpkins for a chic and updated feel. Organize them in empty lanterns, a large bowl, or a vase for a simple yet eye-catching arrangement. Feeling creative? Incorporate cinnamon sticks, branches, gourds, or anything else that makes you think of fall.

Photo: Thrifty Parsonage Living
Photo: Better Homes & Gardens
Photo: Forever Wherever
Photo: Ciao Newport Beach

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Backsplash Personality

Adding or changing your kitchen's backsplash can be an easy way to liven up the space while incorporating a bit of personality. If your kitchen is good shape but in need of a little pick-me-up, then this is a great way to add style and value. Get inspired by these unique ideas!

Spice things up with pretty patterns and bright colors, or keep it calm with neutral colored tiles. Not into tiles? Consider a large slab of marble, or field stones for a different look.

 
Photo: Decor8
 
Photo: Delight By Design
Photo: Design*Sponge

Photo: HGTV

Photo: House Of Turquoise

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Front Door First Impression

We all know that first impressions are unbelievably important (and if you don't, you should!). It's the first thought that always sticks in someone's mind after meeting you. So why should it be any different for your home? A front door is the first impression that people get when seeing your home, so make it a memorable one.

There are a ton of ways to personalize your front door to make it just the way you want it. My favorite tip is to go bold and paint the door in your favorite color. Yellows, blues, and reds add personality while maintaining an effortlessly classic look. Keep the trim bright white to really make the door color pop. Add accessories that coordinate with the style of your home such as a hanging mailbox, plant or flower pots, sconces, and house numbers. Soon enough you'll have an unforgettable front door that will have it's very own group of admirers!

Photo: Better Homes & Gardens

Photo: Elle Apparel

Photo: Martha Stewart

Photo: Mary Elizabeth Inspire

Photo: Modern Cottage
Photo: Real Simple

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Totally Nailed It

Typically I'm not much of a nail polish wearer - mostly because I don't have the patience to let my nails dry. But these creative manicures might have just given me the motivation to sit still!

Whether you're getting ready for a special event or just want to look stylish in your everyday life, having clean, polished nails is key. Add a polka dot here and a bit of glitter there for nails that are sure to attract plenty of attention. Get inspired by these fun, do-able manicure ideas, and paint away!

Photo: Instagram
Photo: Lyndar the Merciless
Photo: Melificent
Photo: Reason to Breathe
Photo: Scandinavian Chic