Outfit to Room: Sweet Spring Dresses from Shopbop

As Spring here in Northern California makes its presence firmly known, I’ve been feeling the itch to refresh my warm weather wardrobe. So what better way to do a little vicarious shopping than with another installment of Outfit to Room! I’m loving the color combination on this drapey dress; the pale blue contrasted with the bright cobalt feels so fresh and full of energy!

This tropical piece has visions of a South Pacific honeymoon dancing in my head. The vibrant flowers and spangly details make me long for $2 massages and henna tattoos on a Thai beach.

It’s cozy with a captial ‘C’! The sweet bow on this striped number adds the perfect touch of girly slouch. Rough leather sandals give the look an edge, and a similar effect is achieved in the bedroom by juxtaposing the fuzzy pink throw with a roughhewn linen bedskirt.

The watercolor wash on this button shift provides a quiet alternative to this season’s bolder florals. But there’s nothing quiet about that wall! Do we think it’s wallpaper or a paint effect? And how can I get me some?

This is my favourite pairing of the whole bunch. I’d wear this pale, silky shift in a heartbeat: the modern shape, the romantic hues, and those shoes! So you can imagine how much I adore the whole thing reinterpreted as a dreamy tabletop…

What are the odds of two orange fringed bibs coming together in the same place at the same time? The fact that they are both offset by a polished, ladylike shape–the refined dress and the antique chair–makes this combo even more uncanny. Love it!

I’ve never planned an outfit around Cinco de Mayo before, but this sultry dress is just the thing for a fiesta; it screams ‘Flirt with me!’ And if rooms could talk, don’t you think the sexy shapes and red hot hues of this interior would say the same thing?

Grunge meets granny in this prairie dress revamp. It’s hard to tell from the photo, but the trim on the dress is actually sequins–and frankly these blue hydrangeas, with their tightly clustered paillette petals, are the floral equivalent of a sequined trim. Don’t they pop beautifully against the faded green wall?

All fashion images courtesy of Shopbop.com
Interiors Credits: 1. Johnny Miller 2. Paul Massey 3. Rodolphe Foucher 4. This Is Glamorous 5. James Merrell 6. This Is Glamorous 7. Johnny Miller 8. Jane Packer’s Guide to Flower Arranging

Strap Happy

Oh Loeffler Randall, thou art a cruel mistress. You speak to my inner bad girl, the one who stays out all night fighting crime in shady back alleys. You call her name with your four inch heels and your teasing reveal/conceal ways…

And yet you don’t forget about my crunchy granola side. You give me sensible sexy hippy flats, just right for cruising the farmers market on a Sunday morning. Your smooth cognac leather perfectly complements my trusty cut-off shorts and a slouchy hobo bag.

But why must you taunt me with your positively painful price tag? If only I had several hundred dollars lying around to spend on sandals…

Exclusive Sneak Peek: Mary Jo Matsumoto Fall ’09

You know in the movies how they yell ‘Stop the presses!’ when something smashingly newsworthy happens? Intrepid girl reporter at your service, I am so having one of those moments! The fabulous Mary Jo at Trust Your Style has honored me with the privilege of giving you this exclusive look at her Fall 09 Mary Jo Matsumoto women’s couture line. A detail from a suit in the collection, the wool jacket and pants are lined with the upside down heart textile (!!!) she designed. The top is pink charmeuse, and the bowling bag is black calf and gray ultrasuede.

Um, drool?

Just in case your heart isn’t racing fast enough over this one, Tina over at Luphia Loves has another exclusive photo from Mary Jo’s line. And I have two words guaranteed to make you want to see it: Fur. Bolero.

‘Nuff said.

Wicked Cool Giveaway: Claflin, Thayer & Co.

Um, are these accessories not the coolest you’ve ever seen? They’re brought to you by Liz Thayer, the creative mind and nimble fingers behind Clafin, Thayer & Co. in Oakland, California. Liz is very kindly offering this fabulous pink and black cosmetics bag in her signature ‘Painted Ikat’ print—free to one lucky reader! You know the drill: pop over to her shop, leave a comment telling me your favourite item, and on Thursday night I’ll randomly select a winner.

I can’t get enough of these incredibly vivid patterns and colors, which Liz paints and sews by hand. The wee coin purses would be perfect for getting my handbag organized—no way would that vivid pink get lost in the seemingly bottomless depths of my purse! And these acid bright pillows would bring such fun personality to an otherwise neutral room.

Liz’s talents extend to the world of leather as well! She uses recycled materials from pre-loved leather clothing, so each item has that butter soft texture that only time and love can achieve. Check out the exposed zipper on this fabulous clutch; it adds the perfect touch of rocker edge to the bag’s clean and streamlined shape.

Liz also has an addictively stylish blog with her favourite fashion finds, the inspirations and processes behind her designs, and special sneak peeks of her works in progress (I want one of these shirts!). I absolutely adore this fierce studded pouch—though frankly they’re all stunning. Don’t you want to collect all four?

Don’t forget: leave a comment to be entered in the draw for one of Liz’s amazing hand painted cosmetics bags! It’s the perfect antidote to a post-daylight savings Monday 🙂

P.S. Congrats to Grace at Poetic Home on winning the Pink Lemonade necklace from last week’s JessLC giveaway. See the rest of the winners here, and even if you didn’t get lucky in the giveaway you can take advantage of JessLC‘s free shipping for the rest of the week!

P.P.S. Thanks a bunch to This Is Glamorous for randomly drawing me as the winner of these awesome earrings, and to Brooke at Velvet and Linen for selecting me to receive a copy of Swedish Interiors. I never win anything, so I’m feeling pretty special right now!

Island Getaway: Karen Walker Spring 2009

She awoke to the heady perfume of orange blossoms, their scent carried into the room by the soft morning breeze. Through the open window she could hear the crash of waves on the shore, the chatter of the bright green parrots who made their home in the island’s trees. Stretching her arms wide, she reveled in the feel of crisp cotton sheets and cool silk pajamas against her skin. ‘I could get used to this,’ she thought.

After a few lazy moments she eased her way out of bed and into a lightweight robe. The glint of the sun off the radiant blue sea welcomed her as she stepped onto the veranda. A bounty of tropical fruits awaited her on the table: plump mangoes and papayas, thick skinned pomelos, sweet-tart pineapples. Her stomach grumbled in reminder that she hadn’t eaten since her hurried departure yesterday morning.

She broke her fast with gusto, concentrating only on the spread before her. But once her initial hunger subsided, her thoughts turned to the path that had led her to this paradise. She sipped the juice from a slice of melon and reflected on the long months of deception, the constant fear of being caught. She had nearly lost hold of her true identity in the ocean of lies that swirled around them all. But it was almost over now.

That afternoon found her floating on a raft in the pool. Her fingers trailed a languid path through the water. Her skin had already acquired a bronze glow after so many years spent hiding under dowdy corporate layers. She reached for the bottle of sunscreen but before she could slather it on, the phone rang. Only one person had her number. She had been expecting his call.

“Where are you, darling?” he asked. “I’ve been waiting exactly where we planned.” She allowed a lengthy pause to settle between them before she spoke. “I won’t be meeting you after all,” she informed him. “And I’ve decided that my cut should be much larger than we had originally discussed. In fact, I’ve taken every last penny for myself.”

He gasped and sputtered with disbelief. “You can’t do this!” he said. “I’ll find you and my money.” A smile played upon her lips. “You don’t even know my real name,” she replied. He rained epithets upon her but it was of no use. In the background she could hear the police pounding at his door, the result of her ‘anonymous’ tip. “Say hello to the SEC for me, darling,” she said.

She hung up the phone. At last, it was done. She paddled her way to the edge of the pool where a tray of snacks rested. Sampling yet another exotic fruit, she mused over which she savoured more: the delicacies of her new island home or the sweet taste of revenge.

All images courtesy of Karen Walker.

Island Getaway: Karen Walker Spring 2009

She awoke to the heady perfume of orange blossoms, their scent carried into the room by the soft morning breeze. Through the open window she could hear the crash of waves on the shore, the chatter of the bright green parrots who made their home in the island’s trees. Stretching her arms wide, she reveled in the feel of crisp cotton sheets and cool silk pajamas against her skin. ‘I could get used to this,’ she thought.

After a few lazy moments she eased her way out of bed and into a lightweight robe. The glint of the sun off the radiant blue sea welcomed her as she stepped onto the veranda. A bounty of tropical fruits awaited her on the table: plump mangoes and papayas, thick skinned pomelos, sweet-tart pineapples. Her stomach grumbled in reminder that she hadn’t eaten since her hurried departure yesterday morning.

She broke her fast with gusto, concentrating only on the spread before her. But once her initial hunger subsided, her thoughts turned to the path that had led her to this paradise. She sipped the juice from a slice of melon and reflected on the long months of deception, the constant fear of being caught. She had nearly lost hold of her true identity in the ocean of lies that swirled around them all. But it was almost over now.

That afternoon found her floating on a raft in the pool. Her fingers trailed a languid path through the water. Her skin had already acquired a bronze glow after so many years spent hiding under dowdy corporate layers. She reached for the bottle of sunscreen but before she could slather it on, the phone rang. Only one person had her number. She had been expecting his call.

“Where are you, darling?” he asked. “I’ve been waiting exactly where we planned.” She allowed a lengthy pause to settle between them before she spoke. “I won’t be meeting you after all,” she informed him. “And I’ve decided that my cut should be much larger than we had originally discussed. In fact, I’ve taken every last penny for myself.”

He gasped and sputtered with disbelief. “You can’t do this!” he said. “I’ll find you and my money.” A smile played upon her lips. “You don’t even know my real name,” she replied. He rained epithets upon her but it was of no use. In the background she could hear the police pounding at his door, the result of her ‘anonymous’ tip. “Say hello to the SEC for me, darling,” she said.

She hung up the phone. At last, it was done. She paddled her way to the edge of the pool where a tray of snacks rested. Sampling yet another exotic fruit, she mused over which she savoured more: the delicacies of her new island home or the sweet taste of revenge.

All images courtesy of Karen Walker.

Massive Giveaway: Jess LC and Soc Chic

I am so excited about this one, I can barely contain myself. It’s the biggest giveaway in history, with not one but seven chances to win! The wonderful Jess of Jess LC (who I’ve waxed poetic about before) has gathered several of your favorite blog-gals to raise awareness about her Soc Chic collection of necklaces. Each piece directs proceeds to a different charitable organization—and it’s a brilliant way to wear a cause that’s close to your heart!

I have the honor of presenting to you the Pink Lemonade Necklace, which honors Bright Pink–a national non-profit providing education and support to young women at high-risk for breast and ovarian cancer. Just leave me a comment between now and Thursday at midnight, either giving a shout-out to your dearest cause or telling me about a time that you turned life’s lemons into pink lemonade. I’ll pick a name at random and announce the winner on Friday.

And don’t forget to visit these awesome ladies and enter their giveaways too!
Coco + Kelly is giving away the Match Made in Heaven Necklace
Design Lovely is giving away the Lucky in Bed Necklace
La Dolce Vita is giving away the Silver Lining Necklace
Delight by Design is giving away the Good Intention Necklace
Heart of Light is giving away the Falling Star Necklace
Blah Blah Blahg is giving away a Commenter’s Choice

Fashioning Interiors: Spring Tops from Tobi

Last week I had such a blast—and got such a terrific response—with my Outfit to Room pairings that I thought I’d celebrate Friday (!) with more of the same! These sweet tanks and jackets from Tobi have got me itching for Spring’s arrival. What a perfect shade of pink! And bright colors seem infinitely more accessible when done in simple shapes, be it the deep v-neck of a slim tunic or the clean angles of a boxy chair.

If Jo and Emily are right—and they always are—then stripes are the key to je ne sais quoi French style. Think of this bold yet playful top as your passport to life as a terminally chic Parisian girl!

This is exactly the sort of top I wish I could get away with. I adore the flowy lines, the floral print, but it just wouldn’t work on my build. Fortunately an embroidered counterpane and a vibrant painting look smashing no matter what the shape of the homeowner!

Many a spring evening finds me in an outfit just like this one; I firmly believe that a fabulous leather jacket completes even the simplest outfit. And the same goes for a leather chair—the warm cognac hide takes this neutral space from mundane to magnificent!

Wayward stripes relieve the sharp angles of the blazer and the headboard, while the flirty ruffles of the dress and the pillow shams add feminine flair. In the outfit and in the room, it’s the perfect mix of girly and masculine!

James Perse is my go-to label for comfy weekend basics. The subtle check of this button down has me dreaming of a rustic holiday in the mountains. Think wildflowers in bloom, babbling brooks, hot mugs of coffee on chilly mountain mornings. Yes, please!

Rose and coral usually make me think, ‘1985 called. It wants its color scheme back.’ But when done right the combination can feel really fresh and fun. Here, ethnic patterns and pops of brighter hues prevent things from looking like my dentist’s office.

Yellow and grey is having such a moment, and this interpretation from Twenty8Twelve is the best yet. The ruched collar—reflected in the trim on those fabulous floor pillows!—is such a fun and funky detail.

And speaking of collars, I can’t get over this gorgeous piece from Ella Moss. The gauzy white bodice provides a light and airy counterpoint to the intricate beaded trim. Like the breezy linens and antique artwork of the bedroom, it projects a carefree elegance day or night!

All fashion images courtesy of Tobi. Interiors credits: 1. Marie Claire Maison 2. Source Unknown 3. This Is Glamorous 4. Decorology 5. Domino 6. Alec Hemer 7. Homes and Gardens 8. Marie Claire Maison 9. Domino

Fashioning Interiors: Spring Tops from Tobi

Last week I had such a blast—and got such a terrific response—with my Outfit to Room pairings that I thought I’d celebrate Friday (!) with more of the same! These sweet tanks and jackets from Tobi have got me itching for Spring’s arrival. What a perfect shade of pink! And bright colors seem infinitely more accessible when done in simple shapes, be it the deep v-neck of a slim tunic or the clean angles of a boxy chair.

If Jo and Emily are right—and they always are—then stripes are the key to je ne sais quoi French style. Think of this bold yet playful top as your passport to life as a terminally chic Parisian girl!

This is exactly the sort of top I wish I could get away with. I adore the flowy lines, the floral print, but it just wouldn’t work on my build. Fortunately an embroidered counterpane and a vibrant painting look smashing no matter what the shape of the homeowner!

Many a spring evening finds me in an outfit just like this one; I firmly believe that a fabulous leather jacket completes even the simplest outfit. And the same goes for a leather chair—the warm cognac hide takes this neutral space from mundane to magnificent!

Wayward stripes relieve the sharp angles of the blazer and the headboard, while the flirty ruffles of the dress and the pillow shams add feminine flair. In the outfit and in the room, it’s the perfect mix of girly and masculine!

James Perse is my go-to label for comfy weekend basics. The subtle check of this button down has me dreaming of a rustic holiday in the mountains. Think wildflowers in bloom, babbling brooks, hot mugs of coffee on chilly mountain mornings. Yes, please!

Rose and coral usually make me think, ‘1985 called. It wants its color scheme back.’ But when done right the combination can feel really fresh and fun. Here, ethnic patterns and pops of brighter hues prevent things from looking like my dentist’s office.

Yellow and grey is having such a moment, and this interpretation from Twenty8Twelve is the best yet. The ruched collar—reflected in the trim on those fabulous floor pillows!—is such a fun and funky detail.

And speaking of collars, I can’t get over this gorgeous piece from Ella Moss. The gauzy white bodice provides a light and airy counterpoint to the intricate beaded trim. Like the breezy linens and antique artwork of the bedroom, it projects a carefree elegance day or night!

All fashion images courtesy of Tobi. Interiors credits: 1. Marie Claire Maison 2. Source Unknown 3. This Is Glamorous 4. Decorology 5. Domino 6. Alec Hemer 7. Homes and Gardens 8. Marie Claire Maison 9. Domino

Lusting After: Lorick Spring 2009

The Look: World’s most perfect dress, via Lorick’s Spring 2009 Collection The Occasion: Afternoon garden wedding at which you don’t mind upstaging the bride
The Look: Sweet slouchy tank, drapey wide-leg denim The Occasion: Evening stroll along the Coney Island boardwalk circa 1946

The Look: Shrunken military vest, cropped trouser The Occasion: Hostile–yet painfully chic–corporate takeover
The Look: Shoulder flounce, nipped-in waist The Occasion: Ceremony for your induction into the ‘Ladies who Lunch’ Hall of Fame

The Look: Silk shell, butt-kicking booties The Occasion: First day of work as intrepid girl reporter who don’t take no guff
The Look: Lavender and lace The Occasion: Book signing for the bestselling memoir of your tortured youth

The Look: Breezy linen The Occasion: A morning of antiquing and a rousing game of polo
The Look: Fluid micropleats, narrow belt The Occasion: Your starring role in a community theatre production of ‘The Talented Mr. Ripley’

The Look: Textured short-suit The Occasion: Defending your PhD dissertation on the sociopolitical significance of the cowl neck
The Look: Insouciantly tied scarf The Occasion: First date with a much younger fella or a much older gent, or both in the same day

The Look: Kelly green bodysuit The Occasion: Your weekly trapeze lesson
The Look: Panel waist miniskirt The Occasion: Transplanting your prize-winning rhododendrons, rubber boots optional

The Look: Madcap pattern, comically large hat The Occasion: Yacht party off the coast of Amalfi
The Look: Scandalous triangle top, retro bikini bottom The Occasion: Any time, any where

All images courtesy of Lorick, Spring 2009