Love the look..In the Navy

In all seriousness, a huge thank you to all those who have served and all who are currently serving for our country! (Including my Dad who was in the Air Force when I was a baby)

The cooler weather has arrived for sure here in "Bean" town. It's about time to purchase a new wool or down coat. I love the option of navy blue over black. Don't most of us already own a slew of black jackets and coats anyway??

1/2/3 - 25% off/4 - 25% off/5/6/7/8

Love the look

Hello my friends, hello...if you've been close to any booming metropolis lately you'll notice that sneakers are EVERYWHERE. I am sort of partial to Adidas and adore retro Nikes + Converse (they remind me of being a kid) I love sneaks with jeans and skinny pants. Here is a round up of some of the best out there right now! Peace and love to you...have a great weekend..it's been a long week.........

1/2/3/4/5/6/7/8

Shelter Loves - Monday edition.....

Hello November! I'm not sure how you already arrived but I am actually excited to embrace the colder weather and holiday season this year.  Friday was bananas and I am taking care of a sick child, so here is a late afternoon Monday edition of all the goodies and greatness I am loving right now!

1. There is something soothing about this time of year. I cherish the moments of snuggling on the sofa, wrapped in a blanket, next to a warm fire with my kids, boyfriend or kitty. (and sometimes all four)

Pendleton has a fabulous collection of blankets, find them here. 

2. We all have "wish lists"...Visiting the French Alps is pretty close to the top for me, especially during ski season.
3. A good friend of mine told me to rent and watch the 2015 version of Cinderella with my daughter. We watched it last night, the overall message was wonderful. I attempt daily to instill the importance of kindness and courage to my children.
4. I adore beautifully wrapped gifts. I also have been drawn to over sized doors and clean white clapboards. I plan to buy my paper early this year.
5. Cozy boots are a go to for me. These Mou booties are precious. Purchase them here. 
6.  I love a layered bar set up, this image is welcoming and fun! I just restyled my own bar with an over sized lacquered tray...it is so functional during the holidays, I may host Thanksgiving again this year. Image via: One King's Lane.
7. We are having a cabinet painted Jade Green for a project tomorrow...Jade is a wonderful shade to wear this time of year..Similar bracelet here, wearing a number of slightly different bracelets stacked together creates an impactful look!

Shelter Loves...

Hola, I'm keeping things short and sweet around here today! I snuck in a "chill" yoga class with my friend Tammi this am! I need to do that more often. I'm feeling relaxed and colorful today. Here is what is on my radar this week. Happy Friyay!

1. It's sweater and fair isle season. I would wear this Boden version in a smaller size with skinny jeans and great flat boots.
2. I was sorry to miss Eddie's book signing last night at Hudson. I had a birthday dinner so I could not make it!
3. Ahhh, yes! Or at least throw the room off with something unexpected! 
4. I wear glasses to drive. In fact my night vision seems to be getting worse. eek. I need a new pair of glasses and am going to try the free at home trial with Warby Parker. The prices are right and I would rather not feel rushed at a store. I am kinda liking the Baxter and the Jennings. Heavy glasses over power my face, these feel a bit lighter.
5. + 6. Okay so I am slightly obsessed with team Gen + Ben's style. Their colorful and graphic designs really resonate with me. Check out the duo's amazingly creative firm here and their home feature on One King's Lane here. ONE WORD: GAH!!

Love the look...

I don't want to jump the gun, especially because the forecast is saying it is going to be in the high 80's all week - Woot,woot!! But I couldn't help but get inspired by J.Crew's new moto jacket. It is the must have staple of the season and I am pretty sure it will sell out, especially in that gorgeous caramel color. (caramel is a hot color this Fall).. I have also included a black version by Karl Lagerfeld . These are both mid-priced. I would love to see either color paired with a beautiful grey scarf.

Love the look - Kentucky Derby

Everyone has a bucket list, one item on mine is to attend the Kentucky Derby someday. I love an excuse to dress up and have fun! Are you heading to a party? Here's an idea of what you might wear! Cheers!

Hat//Necklace//Lipstick//Dress//Mint Julep Recipe//Bracelet//Sandals

Shelter Loves....

Happy Fri-yay!! I had a great design meeting today with a client I have worked with in the past! A big part of my business involves building relationships. I love watching my clients lives evolve and their families grow. The personal connections I make through my job is one of the most rewarding aspects!
I was working away on quite a few projects this week so my brain is in need of a day off.. Here is what caught my eye in the process! Peace out, have a relaxing weekend!

1. I designed a nursery yesterday. I love creating spaces for children that they can grow into. Designer, Nick Olsen did just that with this beautiful nursery design. Image via Veranda.
2. I'm kinda digging the platform wedge shoes that are out right now. They are stylish and comfy..A win, win in my book!
3. God, don't we all know this!! I've got to learn to move on a bit better.
4. I've decided to finally finish my personal photo wall in my home. I loved this mix of images and the simple framing used here.
5. + 6. My wonderful client and I walked through her new home today. It is a beautiful house with so much opportunity. We talked about injecting her home with moments of black and white stripes. The classic combo is perfect when done right! This Dorothy Draper designed floor is a great example of the look I adore! I'm also loving this moto jacket layered over a summery striped dress. Find a similar dress here.

Love the look

As you may have heard the Coachella festival begins this weekend. I can't even begin to blog about it because I have never been but you can be sure if I lived in the California area, I would be going. It looks pretty amazing! I love music and enjoy hearing new bands: so let's just say it's on my bucket list, plus visiting california is always a good idea. From what I have seen it has a pretty casual vibe..So I put together a typical "music festival" look for today's love the look post......

Here's the look:

Links:

#1 - top, see below. I actually love the custom ordered ones.

  /2/3/4/5/6/7/8/10/

#2. and #5. Are available at ShopBop, they are having a 25% off of the entire site sale!! Use code: Spring25 at checkout.

#6 - More on this fabulous skin care line to come!!! ( I am going to do a entire blog post on it - I have a slew of samples coming in the mail. I am excited to try them out) And you know how neurotic I am about wearing sunscreen on my face!

#7 - I own a pair of Frye boots.  A splurge, yes, but worth every dime!! They are super comfy and only get better with age. I prefer to wear booties to concerts because your feet tend to get dusty or even worse.....If you are camping at Coachella you can bring both!! This is the Paige bootie- purchase it here.

#8 - I am loving the tiny stud trend! These star earrings are adorable!! 

And the background on the fabulous Oaxacan tops:

Bradley's top via Luella & June

Hand embroidered 

Mi Golondria owned by Cristina Lynch sells these beautiful, custom, hand embroidered tops. They are made in the villages outside of Oaxaca, Mexico. Read the story here. Each top is custom made for you.

Aidacoronado is another shop that sells Mexican embroidered tops and dresses.

Oaxaca, Mexico (It's always nice to have a visual location)

Shelter Loves....

Friday, oh how I love you! I was at a meeting for most of the day but I wanted to end my week with a Shelter Loves post! It just wouldn't feel complete without it. Here is what is on my radar!

1. These fabulous baskets by artist Eliza Gran. She sells them at a number of shops. I love Amber's colorful shop, she has them too!! They would make a fun Easter basket!!
2. So true!! Take risks and dream big!
3. I am adoring the v-back shirts and sweaters trend this spring. Find a similar one here.
4. Navy is a great alternative to black in the spring and summer months. This classic Tod bag would last you a life time.
5. I've created an "if I ever" board on Pinterest. Follow it here...It's filled with "if I ever" moments, such as: If I ever get married again, If I ever get a dog, etc. I think you get the picture. In any case, If I ever get married again (cause who knows, right?)  There are pros and cons to being single and being married!! It is surprising how quickly you (or I did) adjust to not being married any longer.  I do love this table setting and would envision a small, intimate, casual wedding. I would almost be tempted to purchase and ensemble my own flower vases for one big long family style table!
6.  Ahhh, my design office. It's in the works. I plan to share the design board with you next week. The before space is a bit scary and I will share those photos as well. I came across the image shown this week. It got me thinking about how fun it would be to have a remote office set up in a small detached building behind my house!! It is far enough away not to stress me out when I am trying to relax but close enough to walk to work in the am!! ;)
7. How great are these luggage tag neck charms?? There is one available for almost every city in the U.S. and a number of cities abroad. Available from Jet Set Candy.

Cheers, I'm going to pour myself a glass of wine and make tacos!!

Vacation Style - Take me away!

Today I'm playing, let's pretend! Let's pretend for five minutes that I am actually jetting off to Palm Springs for a long weekend! Here is a sampling of what would be in my travel bag! I LOVE so many of these pieces.... Wishing you a lovely week! Warm sunny days are ahead for all of us....xx

1. Bikini/2. Sweet bag/3. Sunblock***/4. Necklace/5. Amazing frock/6. Espadrille/7. Tube top/8. Graphic Shorts/9. Flat, gold sandal/10. Sunglasses/11. Hat


*** As I have mentioned I had invasive surgery twice on my face, last fall and this winter. One area required MOHS surgery on a basal cell cancer and the other was a Squamous cell carcinoma, which also required MOHS surgery. I have been very thorough about my sun protection for about ten years now. I always wear sunblock on my face. I caught the basal cell area on my nose a couple of years ago but was told it was nothing. When in doubt? Have them biopsy an area even if they tell you it isn't anything. Because the spot had been dismissed by the doctors and let go until last year it ended up being a deep spot (basal cells have legs). The surgery was pretty invasive and created a large hole in the side of my nose. I ended up with roughly 30 stitches and a painful healing process. I still have a scar but it is slowly fading.

The other area thankfully, (which can be deadly if left untouched) was smaller and I caught it early. This area only required 6 stitches and I did not need to go to a plastic surgeon to have it closed. I guess my reason for telling you this is that I wish I had learned my lesson about the damage sun could do when I was in high school. I am paying the price now!

The sunscreen I listed above is great for everyday use and also includes an anti-wrinkle cream (hence the more expensive cost). This sunscreen contains zinc oxide, which the dermatologist recommended that I use. I am also ordering the Sun Bum product to put under my make-up. I'm sharing my story because I would hate for you to deal with lots of cancer spots and surgeries like I have. It is never too late to take care of your skin.  I love the beach and will never stop going, so I also wear sunglasses and a hat to the beach! My boyfriend who loves to have a tan is even more leery of the sun now!

Shelter Loves

Wow, big surprise, it snowed again!!! One of my favorite things about blogging, besides reaching out to the world and my wonderful readers, is the focused attention it takes. When I am blogging I am lost in another world and only thinking of creating..This morning I virtually visited Palm Beach! In a way, this escape, is free therapy but without the co-pay, sidewards looks or leaving the house!! ;)

1. I designed this kitchen for a young family and posted it a couple of weeks ago. (photo below). I had a few readers ask for the source of the art. Often times, out of respect for my client's, I do not share all of my design sources. In this case, I will. The artist's name is: Donna Walker. I love the colors in her paintings. See more of her work here.  This piece perfectly completed this colorful kitchen.

Photo by: Ann-Marie Rollo

2.  I know milkshakes are usually a warm weather treat, but I may break the rules today and order a chocolate/peanut-butter version at the diner down the street. Yum! Here is the recipe for this one!!

3. Palm Springs is a destination on my wish list!! I may have to book a trip to this place sooner than later. ;) Image is: of the Viceroy designed by Kelly Wearstler.

4. I can't wait to break out my moto jacket this Spring. I am OVER my down jacket this season!

5.  How cute are these horn and gold bangles?? Yup, very!

6.  LOVE this thought! By Rachel Castle.

7. Because coral toe nails make me think of summer and would look lovely in those (to the right) cork DVF sandals!

8. Loving these fabulous DVF sandals, cork pairs beautifully with so many summery hues.

Happy Friday. xoxox

2015 Oscar Awards Red Carpet

Happy Monday! Did you have a chance to catch the Oscar's last night? I watched the first half but couldn't stay awake for the ending. Here are my thoughts on the red carpet fashion.  Nothing blew me away but there were of course a number of beautiful moments. Neutral gowns were a top choice. Some I loved, some not so much.

Here are my picks!


FAVORITES:

Lupita Nyong'o custom made pearl dress by Calvin Klein was a sophisticated stunner! Not many women could pull this look off. Lupita was radiant in this beauty, it was created using 6,000 pearls. Lupita is quickly becoming one of Hollywood's fashion icons. I adore her style.

Sienna Miller is gorgeous!! She would look smashing in a paper bag but I also loved the Oscar de la Renta dress she wore. Again, the intricate cut out details did not compete with her hair or jewelry.

Rosamund Pike's Givenchy dress was a wonderful choice for her. I am usually not a "red person" but her minimal hair and jewelry selections were the right ones. The fit and intricate details are so flattering.

I am not loving Jennifer Lopez's eye make up but she looks stunning in this ultra feminine beaded Ellie Saab creation. (Ellie Saab is one of my favorite designers.)

I've read some mixed opinions on Gwyneth's dress but I think she looks beautiful in this pale pink silk Ralph + Russo Couture dress. The lines only enhance her statuesque figure and her hair, makeup and earrings compliment the look beautifully.
P.S. the flower doesn't bother me at all, I love the dimension it adds to the look.

Meryl Streep is hands down one of my favorite actresses. She made the right choice with this very flattering Lanvin skirt suit.

Chiwetel Ejiofor's classic black tux was the perfect choice in my book. I am partial to a man in a black tux!

Jennifer Aniston has worn some of my favorite looks over the years. She did not disappoint this year in a sexy, beaded, nude Versace dress. The more I see this dress the more I like it!

Cate is a classic Classic Beauty and honestly doesn't seem to age! The Tiffany and Co. turquoise necklace was the perfect addition to this chic, understated dress.  Designer: Maison Margiela

LEAST FAVORITE: I know most design is subjective but here are my least favorite designs.

Lady Gaga's dress was not my favorite. I think maybe the exposed tattoos and red gloves put the look over the top. She did however sound amazing singing the Sound of Music Tribute!

Again, why? Blanca Blanco's dress was just not a good look! 

Chloe Moretz is adorable and only eighteen. I just thought this dress had too much material! 

Shelter Loves

Here is this week's round up. We are in need of some serious pretty and color up in here!! The snow, don't get me started on the snow!! The 100+" (no joke) of white stuff we have around here is starting to get to everyone. I've been trying to keep a very positive attitude this winter. In fact, I've been beginning my day with a few daily affirmations. They actually seem to be helping. With that said, I could STILL use a little color and warmth in my life right about now! How about you??

1. Loving Tory's latest spring bag collection. Look at all that color!! These would pair well add the perfect pop of color with a neutral outfit..
2. This yellow trench from J. Crew is adorable! Yellow is a hot color this Spring. You'll be seeing lots of it.
3. PEACE - we all need a bit more of it...
4. I am going to a fund raising gala next Saturday night and am going to wear my hair up. I want to incorporate a braid into the look. I feel younger in braids. :)
5. Kelly Klien's Palm Beach house is gorgeous and yes peaceful.
6. My skin can't get enough moisture this winter. I wash my face and moisturize every night...I thought I'd give this Dior cream a try! I tweak my routine every six months or so. It has great reviews!!
7. How about this watch? The tortoise is pretty cool!!

Shelter Loves....

I've been inspired by pretty little things lately, I'm doing anything to get through this winter. My assistant Meg and I were just talking about how all the snow hype is sorta making the time go faster!?! Or maybe we are just optimists!! Here are the beautiful moments that caught my eye this week.

1. Pretty "smallish" pieces of jewelry. As much as I wear chunky jewelry I do like the simplicity of wearing a few delicate pieces together. With Valentine's Day approaching I can't think of a better time to add one to your wish list. Here are the links for the ones pictured: from top to bottom: Swallow cuff, heart ring, love bracelet.

2. This sophisticated, clean living room.
3. I'm making Valentine's Day dinner for Matty and the kids this weekend. I might bake sugar cookies for dessert. I thought these were so lovely!
4. True dat!
5. Ohhh Blake, you are my girl crush. She is so beautiful..

Shelter loves.....

1. I have to give a loving shout out to my hometown of Marshfield, Ma. I love living in this seaside town...but living near the water has drawbacks during large storms. I am thankful my home and family were all safe during the blizzard this week, but much of my town was under water and a number of people lost their homes due to the storm surge. My thoughts are with them! xo

The picture of the beach above is about five minutes from my home. The second picture (below it) was taken yesterday during the high tide. The water literally took over much of the small village area of Brant Rock. I have never seen this area so flooded in my life, the waves were crashing over the seawall and into homes. ( I grew up in Marshfield and am back after leaving for 17 years).

2. Sometimes we all need to remind ourselves of this...
3. I love a feminine mix of floral and leopard print. This image is making me rethink my daughter's room rug choices.
4. Art is subjective, but these cheery watercolor prints by Sarah Martinez would add a beautiful pop of color to your home or office.
5. As you know Superbowl Sunday is this weekend! Go Pats! I am heading to a friend's house. I think I may bring these. They look somewhat healthy, right?? This entire site is filled with yummy recipes.
6. I love layering graphic tees under blazers and sweaters this time of year.

Happenings...

Photography: Sarah Winchester

Happy Monday. I hope this little sneak peek doesn't frustrate you. I can't show the entire room quite yet. This job consisted of a small powder room, a mud room and an entire kitchen renovation. The fabrics are from Peter Dunham, Starburst and Hable Construction. The rug, HomeGoods, believe it or not.

Rose Cummings - Zebrine in blue

I've also been working with a client remotely on another small, budget friendly kitchen renovation. She's given the thumbs up to using Rose Cummings Zebrine in blue to line the back of bookshelves + also in a small mudroom. Whoo hoo. I love this wallpaper and may HAVE to use it in my own powder room someday.

Speaking of my own home..the search will resume and intensify this Spring. There hasn't been much on the market. Remember I promised to show you what's available for about $315,000 in this area.  Wish granted, here's a sample of what's out there. It's not a bad little house, I could make it shine, the issue is it's only 1050 sq feet with two bedrooms. I need three...

I thankfully caught fashion photographer, Mario Testino 's exhibit at the MFA this past weekend. It was perfection. From the lighting, to the photographs (obviously), to the wall color selected, to the frames..I loved it.

 On a final fashion note...I've decided to go to a Gala/fundraiser this Spring in honor of a friend and the local Boys and Girls club. I'm not sure of the exact dress code, but wouldn't it be fun to have an excuse to buy a gown and dress up? Here are a few beauties I'd like to wear. 

Classic black lace with a modern silhouette, I've always loved Monique Lhuillier dresses. This form fitting one looks like it would be flattering on. 

I love navy when the shade is right. It also would work well with my light hair. This Michael Kors version is pretty.

You have to chose color wisely with gowns but for a Spring event this Emerald green dress nails it. Although I'd have to see how the pleats fall, I'm sure this model is a soaring 5'11". (which I can be with heels) It's also way out of my price range..but a girl can be inspired, can't she?

or as my reader mentioned (see comment) I could go with a cocktail dress.. They're sort of more my style and I'd wear it again...and again..here's some gorge cocktail dress (+ skirt) inspiration. I would love to find a feathered skirt to wear with a sequin top. I ADORE all of these looks.

Temperley London

Love the Look

I'm longing for the day I can wear a white short sleeved/sleeveless shirt and sandals...for now I'll dream from my laptop! Have a fabulous weekend. It's amazing how chic a little white t can look isn't it? I've shown it two ways....(links below)

1/2/3/4/5/6/7/8/9