little make design

holiday sale

2010-12-04T20:59:00.001-08:00

Well, it's almost here. Tomorrow, December 5th will mark the debut of make design's stationery collection. I'll be setting up all day at booth #4 for the RISD alumni holiday art sale at Fort Mason in SF. Me (and my ever-loving, helpful husband) have been busily organizing and preparing for weeks, and we are really looking forward to it. Hope to see you there! {shop make design & other local, independent artists from 9:30am-5pm at Fort Mason, Building A, Marina Blvd + Buchanan St}

work in progress

2010-11-12T16:02:00.000-08:00

Wow, where does the time go? I have been missing my little blog lately as it seems there is never enough time in the day. Especially right now. Currently, I have a bunch of fun projects I am working on both with clients and for myself. I'll post soon about an exciting update to the make design shop. For now, please stick with me. I promise to be back & even better! {image from livingetc)

think outside the box

2010-11-03T18:40:00.001-07:00

Even since we took our fantasy trip to Copenhagen last year, I've been plotting how to get a Christiania Bike shipped to me in California. It was proving to be a difficult task...but not anymore. These bikes are now available in America by the name Boxcycles. And that is exactly what it is, a reverse trike with a box in front for toting almost anything. As with most Danish design, this bicycle is clever in function meeting fashion. Find a local dealer near you.

dear creatures

2010-10-27T17:40:00.001-07:00

Autumn has arrived...and with it comes wonderful colors of nature. The falling leaves and grayer skies propel me into a Fall fashion frenzy. These smart vintage looks from dear creatures have me smitten.

dollface

2010-10-21T16:07:00.000-07:00

How sweet are these handmade mini dolls? They make me want to retrieve my childhood dollhouse and start a little family. Shop the charming Evangelione collection.

draped in lace

2010-10-15T11:17:00.001-07:00

The beauty of lace- it always manages to wow me. The texture and mood that it brings to a dress, a necklace or even wrapped around your Halloween pumpkins. It adds just the right touch of elegance to any event. {dresses by Lover the label, and necklace from white owl}

homestead

2010-10-11T14:42:00.000-07:00

I love this print by beauchamping. They have many wonderful handmade designs in their shop, but this one really speaks to me. I love my family and I cherish the home that holds us all together. {via sfgirlbybay}

bouquet de fleurs

2010-10-05T16:32:00.001-07:00

The ideal decorative accent for the home is a unique & interesting floral arrangement. I love these creative pieces, custom made by Paxton Gate's floral design. I am captivated by them as extraordinary works of art, rich in both color & texture. {paxton gate is located at 824 valencia street, san francisco}

ready, set, decorate

2010-09-28T17:35:00.000-07:00

It's about that time of year to get my home decorating & craft projects in order. Since we've moved, I feel the pressure's on, word on the street is that our block notoriously goes all out for Halloween. So, perhaps I'm starting a bit early- but really you never need an excuse to get inspired. As you can see, I'm thinking lots of garlands & pretty paper crafts. {decor top to bottom: frazier & wing custom mobile, bash please event design, pinwheel project by posh paperie, and confetti system's event decor for the craft inc book signing party via ohjoy blog}

mrs. press

2010-09-22T18:52:00.000-07:00

The prettiest of party dresses and all things lovely are from the newest collection by Mrs. Press. I want one of everything from these pastel confections of clothing. I also love the styling from their lookbook, sweet & sassy, a perfect combination. {via daydream lily}

and then there was rue

2010-09-20T18:30:00.001-07:00

Another fabulous interiors, fashion & lifestyle magazine straight to your computer screens. View the premiere online issue of Rue. {all images from here}

happy friday

2010-09-17T18:17:00.000-07:00

Dreamy photography by Lieke Romeijn. Have a sweet weekend!

"print is not dead"

2010-09-14T19:40:00.000-07:00

I know many people (me for one) who've been sad since the end of magazines like Domino and Blueprint. So imagine my delight when a friend told me about Anthology, a new shelter & lifestyle magazine by Anh-Minh Le and Meg Mateo Ilasco. From the preview of Anthology magazine's first issue to the cast of amazing talent on the masthead, I am beyond excited. I'm also in love with their premiere cover illustration by Kris Atomi c and can't stop watching the genius stop-motion video by Thayer Allyson Gowdy. There will always be something very special about an actual print magazine, that I'll end up holding onto for years. Definitely signing up for my subscription today!

Print Is Not Dead from Anthology Magazine on Vimeo.

fashion show favorite: whit

2010-09-13T17:47:00.000-07:00

I love the whimsical collection by Whitney Pozgay. In a fresh & fun approach, the styles by WHIT are comfortable and cool. Just imagine looking ultra chic while lounging at the beach. This is my kind of clothing. {Images from NY Fashion week}

toasty

2010-09-09T07:12:00.001-07:00

I can feel the seasonal shift in the air, and I've got warm tones, cozy materials & fall clothing on my mind. The collection by Toast fulfills all of my fantasy fall outfits. Their simple sophistication makes pieces easily wearable & layered with a luscious color palette and a touch of unique charm. Shop their lovely catalogues here.

great escape

2010-09-02T19:09:00.000-07:00

We're getting away for a relaxing retreat in the country. Happy long weekend! {Enchanting work by Noemie Goudal via all the mountains}

the L word

2010-09-01T19:09:00.000-07:00

I like collecting trinkets, things, buttons, ephemera, bric-a-brac...you name it. And so I absolutely love A Collection a Day blog by artist Lisa Congdon {her photo on top}. I was especially inspired by her organized assortment of L's, so I set up my own little photo too. La, la, la.

mr. and mrs. miscellaneous

2010-08-30T15:45:00.000-07:00

Thanks to our always in-the-know food savvy friends, we've been introduced to the cleverly delicious Mr. & Mrs. Miscellaneous. This fairly new SF ice creamery offers up some classics plus a variety of interesting creations...the flavors come together perfectly (see flapjacks & maple) and the options change daily. The shop is run by 2 former pastry chefs, so no wonder their peanut brittle is also outstanding. {Located at 699 22nd Street, San Francisco. Photos from here}

required reading

2010-08-26T19:25:00.000-07:00

Or if not reading, at least fawning all over the beautifully designed covers. I know these have been out in the world for awhile, but as the back to school moment is in full swing, I like to revisit the old classics. There is no better way to enjoy good literature than to own & adore the exquisite collection created by Coralie Bickford-Smith at Penguin books.

i ♥ heath

2010-08-24T18:45:00.001-07:00

Today was a great day. It included a fresh fish lunch, a beach and a jaunt to the Heath ceramics factory store. Heath is truly one of the most extraordinary places full of the most alluring tableware & tile. The quality and style is perfection, and if there are slight imperfections, you can always purchase the factory seconds at a nice discount :)
{Top photo by LMD. Product images from here}

sun shine in

2010-08-21T11:14:00.000-07:00

August has been a nearly constant cloudy and cool one. Here's hoping to a warmer end of summer. And counting down the days until our Labor day weekend where we'll be lounging poolside. {Visions of pink parasols and yummy drinks, photo & crafted mini doily umbrellas by Olivia Kanaley from her gorgeous blog: a field journal}

something old, something new

2010-08-19T17:54:00.001-07:00

Pretty neutrals + pastels have caught my eye. As summer and it's brightly colored days are coming to an end, I lean towards softer earth tones. Whether it's the tea stained look of vintage doilies or a studded update on an old oxford style shoe, it's a nice mix of the old with the new. {Antique crochet bundle from here. Sprouting tassel necklace at anthropologie. Linen shopping bag available here. Studded leather brogues from jcrew.}

best in show

2010-08-18T13:49:00.001-07:00

I wish I could have been at last week's Scandinavian fashion storm (literally, walking the runway in the rain). Here's a glimpse of the Spring/Summer 2011 designs from Copenhagen fashion week. photography by copenhagen fashion week. {shows top to bottom: Stine Goya, Ivana Helsinki, Munthe plus Simonsen, Guldknappen, Minimarket}

how's your weekend?

2010-08-15T18:47:00.000-07:00

I spent mine with moose and my pretty new eames rocker.

I just came across this blog through Frankie magazine's site. It's kept me captivated for the past hour. I find it so enjoyable peering into the lives of what others do and see. {all images via how's your weekend}

darlin' dish towels

2010-08-11T14:37:00.001-07:00

You can take the girl out of Texas, but you can't take Texas out of the girl. I dream in biscuits & gravy (or biscuits & honey for a little sweet thing). So I am all over these country lovin', screenprinted tea towels by Yee Haw Industries. Available here.

vintage loves

2010-08-09T15:19:00.000-07:00

Vintage loves is a new collection assembled by free people that offers one of a kind vintage beauties. Whether it's a delicate, lacy garment or a pair of metal roller skates, there is quite the selection...until it's been snatched up. Many items are selling out fast, so shop quickly & hopefully they'll keep refilling with equally delightful treasures.

summer friday

2010-08-06T17:12:00.000-07:00

What could be prettier than hanging all your darling summer dresses out on the line? A fun, colorful and relaxing weekend is right around the corner. {Photos from the latest issue of Lonny magazine}

3 favorite things

2010-08-05T08:11:00.001-07:00

After going into visual overload at the recent SF Renegade craft fair, I have some favorite picks from the vast selection of talent.
1. One of the first tables I hit was heyday design. I wanted each & every one of Claire Madill's ceramic vintage jars .
2. Immediately drawn to typographic things, I enjoyed seeing the field guide to typestaches by Old Tom Foolery. Especially love Mr. Filosofia :}
3. And another amazing standout was the work of Nicole Deponte. She has put old ties & scarves to new ingenious use as necklaces and original headpieces.

crafty friday

2010-07-30T13:14:00.000-07:00

Things that make me happy today: beautiful & creative decorations for special parties. I am so in love with the styling designs of Ashley Meaders. {swing & fabric hearts made for max & margaux's sweet & original wedding... and her pretty paper mobile for a pancake party}.

flap & flutter

2010-07-26T15:08:00.000-07:00

I adore these playfully illustrated posters by Tinou le Joly Sénoville. Each detailed Bird & Insect displays their colorful, quaint charm. Created to decorate a kid's room, I think they would look equally sweet in a work studio (mine)! Available online at Smallable.

fall for...

2010-07-22T15:18:00.000-07:00

...stella & dot! I've had a great time designing with the talented creative team at stella & dot for awhile now. And am happy to show off the Fall Lookbook, full of gorgeous jewelry that takes a fresh spin on vintage styles and offers a bold look to feminine pieces. Whether it's an amazing statement necklace or a more delicate look, you can find it all. Shop at stelladot.com.

summer romance

2010-07-15T18:37:00.000-07:00

I love nothing more that a hot summer day, only to jaunt around in a cute flirty dress and sandals. So as the temperatures in the bay area are rising, I am inspired by my summertime loves. {love the jar flower display & a good outdoor lunch spot, photos by Polly Wreford. Lemon fresh goodness by local jam maker Shakirah Simley . Vivienne Westwood's Bale Sunday dress. Happy amusement park photo from angie nan. Love to live in sandals, the morgan shoe by Seychelles. And weekend getaways, photo of luggage by the fancy lamb.}

hands-on

2010-07-12T19:56:00.000-07:00

Too much computer usage can turn me bleary-eyed. So I love this idea. It makes me want to get a sewing machine right away and create some new & pretty things. {poster by Gergana Plummer via share some candy}

pink love

2010-07-02T09:42:00.000-07:00

We are heading out for our long weekend. This is always a special time since our wedding anniversary falls on July 3rd. We've planned a relaxing getaway, and it's exactly what we need. Have a happy & safe weekend. See you next week. {pink fluffy goodness from here. And our engagement picture from July '03 taken by Mei Tao}

make a wish

2010-07-01T20:27:00.000-07:00

I just celebrated my 35th birthday yesterday, and it made me recall that it was about a year ago this time, I first started my little blog. The original intention was to blog almost daily, and I think I did pretty well in the beginning. If it seems that I have dropped off at times, it was probably in large part to some unexpected hurdles life has given me this past year. Through it all, I am ever-thankful for my partner in life, Philip, & my family & friends who have been by my side (both physically & from miles away). And now as I embark on my own personal new year, I wish for all happy things- and more frequent blog posts! {Cutest cake in a teacup photo via sara's party perfect. And my first grade portrait, circa 1981}

tiny pretty

2010-06-29T21:52:00.001-07:00

What a wonderous & dreamy little cottage. I am deeply enchanted and inspired by Sandra Foster's dream studio. She transformed an old Catskill's cabin into this pretty sanctuary, doing the handiwork herself. The renovation and decor consists mostly of inexpensive flea market finds and recycled wood. The result, a piece of beauty. {Article about this romantic retreat from the New York Times, brought to my attention by my sweet husband who can also appreciate the vintage chic}.

dresses & jumpsuits

2010-06-23T19:27:00.001-07:00

It was almost a year ago that I visited Copenhagen and got to experience the Danish fashion & culture first-hand. I was in a constant state of visual stimulation. I am reminded of it all while looking through Danish designer, Stine Goya's collections. I especially love her latest set of frocks & rompers in alluring citrus and summery colors. The styles are perfectly unique pieces of casual & effortless high fashion.

hello lover

2010-06-21T20:28:00.000-07:00

I have swooned & raved over pony rider before... and now they are back with a line of wall decals and hangings. Their products, from design to execution, feel like the perfect mix of pretty and clever. So in love.

tune in

2010-06-18T18:40:00.000-07:00

Turn up the old transistor radio and have a fabulous weekend! Adore & own original pieces of art by the lovely Ali Douglass.

vintage looks

2010-06-15T17:16:00.000-07:00

Pretty vintage styles for summer. Dress from Samantha Pleet's Spring '10 collection, Vintage cluster necklace by lonkoosh, "Rae" oxford shoes at Ruche, Vintage map styling by the Society Inc.

summertime

2010-06-11T16:05:00.000-07:00

Sunny summer weather is finally here...and hopefully here to stay awhile. Get outside! {By Richard Perez for Friends of Type.}

molly hatch

2010-06-07T11:27:00.001-07:00

I am so smitten with Molly Hatch's ceramics. Her nature inspired teacups, teapots, saucers...are all gorgeous. And made even better with the ornately illustrated frames to hang them in. This is of course another attempt to get my husband to agree to plates hanging decoratively on the wall. With all of Molly's lovely handmade pieces, I could easily go overboard. A collection of her work is on display and available at Lola boutique in Berkeley until June 3oth.

handmade wedding

2010-05-27T19:08:00.000-07:00

It's that wedding time again...and we are embarking on a quick escape to the East coast for a celebration. My husband will be a groomsman and I can't help but envision him wearing one of these adorable hand-crafted boutonnieres by EmersonMade. They offer so many gorgeous floral accessories to cherish on the big day or to wear anytime. Cheers darlins!

friday flowers

2010-05-21T09:02:00.001-07:00

Pretty pink flowers and white ceramic vases...happy Friday. {photo by paperflowergirl}

you are my spoon

2010-05-20T11:35:00.000-07:00

I am one with an obsession for vintage spoons. It has sometimes crossed me over into a life of petty crime when I meet a spoon I just can't part with. I love the selection of antique spoons offered at thé dansant, a lovely web shop by Belgian sisters, Isis and Nimue. They offer the sweetest collectibles and package them in the most special, intriguing and eco-friendly way.

wall art

2010-05-17T12:13:00.000-07:00

It's so inspiring to see kids being creative and to appreciate their art. The son of the very talented Elisabeth Dunker of fine little day, now has his own original drawings on wallpaper. It's a whole new way to preserve a little masterpiece. Such a fabulous idea, you can purchase it here.

pretty shop

2010-05-10T11:17:00.000-07:00

I have sadly been so behind on blogging-- this past week seemed to get away from me. Today, I feel much more refreshed especially with these beautiful shots from the summer collection by Noa Noa {via greedy girl}. When we visited Denmark last year, I fell so in love with the Noa Noa boutique, I was like a kid in a candy store. Literally needed to be dragged out of there, but not before having a very fun spending spree. Now I am dreaming of all these new fabulous styles.

dreamy

2010-05-02T13:04:00.001-07:00

It's a beautiful sunny Sunday in the Bay area...enjoy. Photo by Cassia.

pony rider

2010-04-26T17:15:00.000-07:00

We recently discovered a hummingbird's nest outside one of our windows. I've been seeing the frequent flutters go by and it makes me smile. They are so pretty - who wouldn't want them as a pattern on pillows & tea towels? Pony Rider offers it all as one gorgeous nature scene...just in case it's not right outside to look at.

sweet stands

2010-04-21T18:41:00.000-07:00

How sweet it is...perfect little paper stands for displays, parties, play. Such a clever and wonderfully executed idea from the designers of hello hanna. {photos by & also available through upon a fold}

patouf

2010-04-19T18:45:00.000-07:00

I am instantly drawn to these very feminine, girly pieces. It's all so sweet and subtle with a touch of vintage and a lot of charming appeal. Patouf clothing is my new crush.

type + flourish

2010-04-14T17:50:00.000-07:00

I adore this type treatment and sweet saying. Love all the work of Jessica Hische.

sunday showers

2010-04-11T14:03:00.000-07:00

I feel like I sound like a broken record at this point. We are constantly being teased by the start of spring, and then we get a downpour for a few days. All I want is to wear my frilly dresses... {photo from here}

on target

2010-04-08T09:23:00.000-07:00

I am in full ready, set, shop mode for the launch of the Zac Posen collection at Target arriving on April 25. For New Yorkers brave enough to beat the crowds at the pop-up store on April 15th, they could score big much sooner than I. But after losing out on all the cute dresses from Target's amazing Liberty of London Line, I am going to fight, elbow, bite, kick for some of these! See the full collection here.

happy days ahead

2010-04-04T13:20:00.001-07:00

Hi lambie-pie! I love this funny little vintage easter card I've had in my collections for awhile. Happy Sunday.

good friday

2010-04-02T10:37:00.000-07:00

Visions of pastel goodies in my head. Soft-hued braided clogs from swedish hasbeens. Pretty princess cake made by Miette. Delicate dotted dress from anthropologie. Pale pink pouf at Serena & Lily.

paper plates

2010-04-01T17:36:00.000-07:00

This is it! This is the solution. My husband always cringes when I mention hanging decorative plates on a wall. But now, I just have to put up a wallpaper of plates by studio ditte {via bloesem}. I thought it would be cute to frame a large square of the plate pattern. We'll see how this ongoing decorating debate unfolds...

floral romp

2010-03-31T16:36:00.001-07:00

Happiness is this adorable patterned romper from jcrew's spring collection...plus the abundant array of flowers, wonderful styling and the prettiest photography.

up in the air

2010-03-29T13:04:00.001-07:00

Paper products please me endlessly. Particularly ones that are whimsical, 3-dimensional & can take flight. This card by o-check design graphics creates that description perfectly.

continuous bloom

2010-03-26T14:38:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday and collage elation over the wonderful artwork of Aprile Elcich. Her settings and use of vintage papers, type & folds is pure bliss. It inspires me to either do some gardening or bust out the scissors & glue and create something special. Here's to a (hopefully) productive weekend! Buy Aprile's original pieces here and enjoy her blog dedicated to the works of fellow collage artists.

bunny frou frou

2010-03-24T19:44:00.001-07:00

With Easter right around the corner, I dream of cute pastel bunnies (or delicious pink bunny peeps). So it is no shocker that I am lusting over these sleek & stylish bunny eared chairs created by design duo SANAA. A similar bunny chair (the original narrower shape) is available now at Lola home in Berkeley, CA.

set the table

2010-03-22T20:44:00.000-07:00

with this sweet springy pattern from dwellstudio.

key ingredient

2010-03-17T15:41:00.001-07:00

The delicate vintage stylings of pequitobun's jewelry collection makes me so happy. Everything has a special quality that feels like it tells a great story. I especially love the antique keys integrated with chains & baubles plus photo styling with the bunny, there's nothing better.

blossom

2010-03-15T19:06:00.000-07:00

We gladly welcomed the warm weather in this weekend! And it gave us the opportunity to garden and do some much needed yard work. I loved my outing to the local nursery and came home with pretty ranunculas to plant. It got me in quite the floral mood. Spring patterns/looks from Tucker by Gaby Basora, a clever way to give flowers and to remember the name of what you got in the bouquet (by Papier Valise), and a watercolor floral scarf at echo design.

almost spring

2010-03-12T16:05:00.000-08:00

We had a few teaser days of sun and a bit of warmth...and now more rain. These wonderful pictures keep me eagerly awaiting spring. Photos (top to bottom): Tine K Home inspiration. Leifsdotter's spring lookbook. Row of topiaries from here.

fulfilled & overjoyed

2010-03-08T18:33:00.001-08:00

Ooh, I am such a sucker for pretty flourishes and calligraphy. This lovely graphic by illustrator Leigh Wells is available for download through the Martha Stewart Weddings DIY section. It's a wonderful idea- and makes a sweet gift for friends or as a thank you present for bridesmaids.

birds of a feather...

2010-03-07T10:50:00.000-08:00

...flock together. The feather trend is everywhere - and it looks so fine. Photos (top to bottom): "Leap of Faith" fashion shots by Waldemar & Max in latest issue of Dealer de luxe magazine. Silk peacock feather clutch by red ruby rose. "On-A-Wing" blouse at anthropologie. Feathered jewelry at free people. Handmade feathers by Stephanie Congdon Barnes. Peacock photo by me in Mexico City.

rainy season

2010-03-02T12:27:00.000-08:00

I am back home in California and have returned to more rain. Really, really looking forward to this wet season to be over. Rainy day art via freshlyblended.

viva mexico!

2010-02-23T19:01:00.001-08:00

I have sadly been so distant from my blog lately-- blame it on the big move, too much rain, and now travel. We are about to be off on a little adventure to Mexico City. I look forward to it since I've never been and am excited to explore the street markets and museums. I have a vision in my mind that everything will be very bright and beautiful. I'll be sure to share photos upon our return next week, but until then here's my mexico inspiration. Photos (top to bottom): Colorful womenswear from here. mexico city photo. pop-poms from here. frida-esque styling from small magazine.

mellow yellow

2010-02-10T11:27:00.000-08:00

We have been in the process of painting our bedroom a lovely shade of yellow plus a grey accent wall. And to our surprise when removing an ugly wallpaper, we discovered a gorgeous vintage pattern underneath, a perfect floral in shades of yellow and grey. So we are also keeping one patterned wall while doing a light yellow wash over the paper. All still a work in progress, but am getting excited to have the bedroom complete. I have found these inspirational photos to go with the colorful visions in my head. Photos (top to bottom): Heavenly headboard photo from here, Vintage rotary phone available at Anthropologie, Yellow dress photo from here, and Stick on lettering by Harmonie-intérieure.

little by little

2010-02-05T17:26:00.001-08:00

One box at a time, I am steadily getting our house and everything in order. Still more work to be done. Happy weekend (of unpacking)!
Image by Alana Davis Photography.

coming home

2010-01-30T01:58:00.000-08:00

A new place to call home. A change for good. We are making a big move this weekend- thus the scarce posts lately. I hope to be back soon and settled with a fresh new outlook & inspiration to share from a different happy place. Vintage printed hanky by bird & banner.

doily love

2010-01-26T15:18:00.000-08:00

I am in full obsession with vintage doilies of all colors, shapes and delicacy. Some of my favorite doily inspired design & crafts above. Top to bottom: Horse & lace pouch by track & field designs. Handprinted doily paper by trycka studio. Doily print coasters by cozy blue. And beautifully worked vintage doilies into bowls by dottie angel.

polyrhythm

2010-01-23T11:01:00.001-08:00

I am very much a summertime girl- and I like to dress as such whenever possible. Therefore, I am officially over winter and it's constant rain. But running across this vibrant and amazing clothing line by Tina Kalivas has brightened my world. Her "polyrhythm" collection makes me happy on so many levels; the mix of patterns, waxed fabrics, bright colors, and unexpected draping, ruffles & folds. These styles fit my fantasy of what I'd love to wear daily (if only I could).

stuck on you

2010-01-20T10:09:00.000-08:00

Looking for a cute & clever Valentine's gift for that special someone? I just purchased my own little stick from Stephanie Congdon Barnes' "love notes" collection. She's handmade each twig and every leaf and I can't wait to receive mine. All of the items in her shop sell out very quickly so move fast- she just added more today. Not only are you supporting a small business, but also 10% of the sales will go to Mercy Corps, which helps the earthquake victims in Haiti. What's not to love?

pretty pillows

2010-01-15T13:18:00.000-08:00

I am in a deep spring clean and new home decor mode right now. And I love these handmade pillows in their pretty patterns & colors. Shop the designs here.

"stumped"

2010-01-12T10:30:00.000-08:00

I've been dreaming of lights made out of branches lately... and then I stumbled upon these fabulous tree stump lights created by the egg collective. They live up to my fantasy and I wish I could have one as a bedside end table...ah, to dream.

step outside

2010-01-09T12:05:00.000-08:00

and enjoy the beautiful blurred scenes... {see more photos here}

garden party

2010-01-07T14:02:00.001-08:00

Here's more spring goodness. And it's so very pretty; bright patterned florals, gorgeous silhouettes and detailed roses & ruffles. This is the eco-friendly "garden collection" by h&m. They have utilized all organic and recycled materials for this new spring line and I'm loving these lush green looks. I'll be seeking out my faves above.

spring green

2010-01-06T18:06:00.000-08:00

Is it too early to be wishing for spring? When I look at these intricately hand-cut nature collages by Stephen Eichhorn, I am immediately warmed up. They are fantastic; full of foliage, movement and the most serene combination of colors.

it's the most curious thing...

2010-01-04T16:50:00.000-08:00

these pieces seem straight out of Alice in Wonderland and they are oh so marvelous. On top, the giant teacup is a planter (cat not included). It makes such a whimsical statement in a room. I spied it on NYE at friends Eddie & George's place, which is always impeccably decorated. The rabbit lamps are also the perfect touch- I would love a little cluster of them hanging about. Fanciful objects and more unique modern designs to discover at Propeller, 555 Hayes Street, SF.

new year joy

2009-12-31T13:49:00.000-08:00

I am excited for the New Year to officially begin. Let's bring it in style! photos from getty images.

have a merry & a happy

2009-12-25T14:48:00.000-08:00

Enjoy these days... And a little design from my "make design" holiday promo mailer above.

buy handmade

2009-12-18T17:01:00.000-08:00

So far, most of my holiday shopping has consisted of handmade items, mostly bought at local boutiques (or etsy). I can really appreciate the work and hope the recipient treasures the gift in the same way. Plus, always best to support fellow artists & crafters. Some sweet stuff: Playful fabric creations by Tamar Mogendorff, original illustration prints by Ashley G, fantastic jewelry selection at chain chain chained.

decorate my home...

2009-12-16T18:53:00.000-08:00

...{please} I am sadly so behind in doing any holiday decorating this year. Where does the time go? I wish I could wake up in the morning and have the beautiful & festive stylings of Tine K home throughout my house. View their Winter collection & inspiration here.

merry happy

2009-12-11T11:48:00.000-08:00

I want to go to this enchanted forest. Puts me in a dreamy, merry mood. Gorgeous photo by Eleanor Hardwick.

pillow talk

2009-12-10T08:01:00.001-08:00

Yes, let's go for a walk through the rows of colorful homes & trees. This adorable pillow designed by Francesca of Mrs Eliot Books is available now through Envelop. She has her textile patterns on other items there too as well as cute cards and stationery for sale here.

winter white

2009-12-09T13:55:00.001-08:00

As most of the North & Midwest is blanketed in snow, it puts me in a winter white moment. Although no snow here, I think it's plenty cold. These images & gift ideas above give me that warm, fuzzy feeling. photos top to bottom: Millie Owl Plushie, Porcelain Flowers, Christian Lacroix runway look, Twig picture holders.

top it off

2009-12-08T16:17:00.000-08:00

I love a good whimsical topper to wear for a party or any ole' time. These silk hair pieces & headbands are just the thing. Shop the cutest stuff by Ashley Cheeks of it's ok my dear.

holiday deer

2009-12-07T15:41:00.000-08:00

I can never have too much deer decor in my home. I adore these tiny, original hand painted pieces that work as both ornaments and wall art. Shop more of Kate Durkin's lovely goods.

bunny kisses

2009-12-04T11:14:00.001-08:00

A bunny after my own heart. We share the same love for fashion, shopping & style magazines. She has a delightful new shop open full of prints, cards and this limited edition pin. Plus, get her adorable Christmas cards at Topshop now. I heart Fifi Lapin! xxx

a few of my favorite things

2009-12-03T08:14:00.001-08:00

"Earth friendly blouses and wrap around dresses, buttons and thimbles and cool winter weather..." Thank you Stewart+Brown for your pretty & sustainable fashion collections. This West coast duo combines a sophisticated aesthetic with organic & green fabrics. It's obvious they put great love into their creations, the photography and look books are beautiful, where you can really get a good sense of the vision. It makes me dream that some of their pieces will be under my tree wrapped up in a bow! shop holiday for me here ;)

it's essential

2009-12-02T12:22:00.001-08:00

If you've never tried H.Gillerman's organic oils before, it's about that time. These delicious blends are appealing on all levels- the packaging is gorgeous, the scents are soothing and once applied, they make you feel amazing. In particular, I am a fan of their sinus and stress remedies. Dab a bit of the tension remedy on before you go out holiday shopping, trust that it will help. While using only the purest and highest quality oils, these products make great gifts or a fine treat for yourself. You can also learn how to make your own blends with the Essential Oils deck by Hope Gillerman & Joan Arnold. Deck available here.

oh so glovely

2009-11-30T12:18:00.001-08:00

Fingerless and studded leather gloves have gone lady lovely. These feminine driving gloves are my current obsession and seem to be everywhere these days. Some of my favorites at nice prices are: (from top to bottom) speed racer glove by free people, leather stud scoop gloves from topshop, and the studded driver glove, also free people.

thank-full

2009-11-26T11:43:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone. Enjoy your family, friends, feasts on this day and always. Learn more about the history of thanksgiving here. Cutie tipi illustration by Amy Borrell.

making whoopie

2009-11-25T15:43:00.000-08:00

I'm happy I didn't overwhelm myself cooking for Thanksgiving this year. I have selected a dessert to make, that's all! And I am positive these Pumpkin Whoopie Pies will be a delicious success. The recipe is from the Baked Cookbook, by Matt Lewis & Renato Poliafito. They have made the whoopie pie famous, straight from their bakery in Brooklyn. Hopefully mine will look as good as in the photo above (by Tina Rupp.)

a candle burns

2009-11-22T19:11:00.000-08:00

During a recent shopping jaunt through one of my favorite boutiques, I noticed the most gorgeous line of candles. Tatine's handcrafted candles are perfectly exquisite with their nature & garden inspired scents, by Margo Breznik from her Chicago studio. She has made it her passion to utilize green production practices, with the blending of soy wax & beeswax, all contained in a recycled glass jar. Not to mention, the packaging's design & letterpress creates a stunning end product. It makes me happy to see and support small studios and artisans like this one. Locally sold in Berkeley at Lola.

always pie

2009-11-20T14:27:00.000-08:00

This is a perfect sentiment for the festivities & feasts ahead...can't wait for pumpkin, apple, pecan (really any kind) of pie. Thanks to the lovely collages and journalling of Jamie at waterhalo for putting thoughts of sweet things in my head.

feathers & flowers

2009-11-19T08:22:00.001-08:00

As the holidays are almost upon us, I am excited to get decorating. This is always my favorite season to create vibrant & textural floral arrangements. While flipping through some classic domino issues, I came across the brilliant idea of putting together a bouquet of feathers instead. How will you enrich your table centerpiece this year?

the fall

2009-11-17T15:56:00.000-08:00

As I sit here working, I have the soothing sounds of Norah Jones in my background. Her latest album, The Fall, just released today. It's a wonderful new style for her, yet still has the same silken quality that Norah is known for. I can keep listening to this over & over. Love the quirky Cover art by Autumn de Wilde.