Vintage Flashcards as Artwork

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I love this image of Lauren Conrad's office via The Coveteur. The artwork really makes the space. How much fun would it be to have vintage vocabulary flashcards? I would love to create my own phrase to frame. If you're interested, I've found a few sets here, on ebay. I also found framed art similar to Lauren's on etsy here.

Happy Friday!

xx

The Look For Less

You don't always have to break the bank to be on trend. Heidi Merrick's color blocked frock will set you back $437.00. I'd be just as happy rocking Eliza J's version at $158.00. Take up the hem an inch and you're good to go!

Shop:

{Heidi Merrick} {Eliza J}

Katie Ermilio

{dress + glitter love} {shoes} {cocktails}

When I first set eyes on the above Katie Ermilio skirt I immediately thought: wedding. I know that sounds totally off base but if the skirt were white and I could pair it with a silk white T- this is exactly the type of formal yet relaxed vibe I would go for. The look screams high fashion low fuss and I'm completely smitten! I would possibly throw on a birdcage veil for the ceremony then dance the night away.

Would you ever skirt tradition (pun intended) and wear something like this?

Check out the entire collection here. It's flawless.

A Classic Color Scheme

Blue and white are such a classic color palette. I'm always drawn to images and spaces that incorporate them. Above are a few of my pins showcasing the look. My favorite is the top left which is actually a laundry room! Could you imagine? I would want to do laundry all day everyday in that space. Do you ever want to just wipe the slate clean and start all over when it comes to design in your home? I love my home but I don't think I will ever feel like it is finished. It just continues to evolve as my tastes develop.

Happy Monday!

Beach Inspiration

I love the color palette of the above images. Once the weather turns, I always want to brighten things up with regards to my home decor. Switching out acessories is a great way to welcome a new season.

{rug} {lamp} {striped mugs} {ikat nesting bowls} {wave pillow covers} {banana pillow} {foo dogs} {tortoise glass} {dog plate} {faux coral}

Fashion Focus- Mixing Prints

sunnies-urban, oxford-j.crew, belt-linea pelle, skirt-zara, heels-nine west, bracelets-david yurman, j.crew

If you're not sure about mixing prints, try starting with a simple color palette as I have here.

xx

Bachelorette Pad

I keep returning to these images. Using a striking yet simplistic color palette, Erin Gates created a classic, feminine design. I would gladly call this home. The couch is such a custom look. A cost effective approach may be to consider having pink slipcovers with black piping made. Also, check out this inexpensive jute rug from Kohl's. Above, I highlighted a few other elements that may help the average girl (sans a talented designer) get the look-which is nothing short of G-L-A-M!

{wingback nailhead chairs} {throw pillows} {lucite waterfall table}

If you love the idea of a pink couch and are ready to make an investment, check out this highback sofa from Furbish (retails for $1,800).

xx

Emerson Fry Spring 2012 Live at 12PM

Emerson Fry (formerly known as Emersonmade) debut's her spring line this afternoon at 12:00! Here's a little teaser of my favorite items from the line. Prices fall within two-three hundred range (high three). I wore my Emersonmade India collection tunic yesterday and had so many compliments. This lady certainly has an eye for design. Her pieces are unique and wearable. Will you be shopping this afternoon?

Make It Your Own

I pinned the middle image a little while ago and keep coming back to it. I love how this bathroom renovation is so unique and personalized. I'm a sucker for monograms so the shower curtain might be one of my favorite elements. The sconces are gorgeous, and I love the idea of the clear glass shelf mounted above the sink (just below the mirror). Cute storage without taking up a lot of visual space. One of the most personalized elements has to be the Polaroid collage mounted with striped Japanese washi tape.

{washi tape}

For the full source list and extended images head over to the original post. This reno proves that you don't have to have the largest space, or most expensive upgrades to create a striking design aesthetic. All you have to do is "make it your own".

Fashion Focus- Spring Forward

sunnies- urban outfitters, silk wrap- winter kate (similar look), striped shirt- h&m, jeans-vigoss, clutch-urban chic, cuff- house of harlow (old), necklace- boutique (similar), wedges- bannana republic

My best friend "O" and I had such an incredible weekend. We did some spring shopping, so I thought I'd show you two of my budget friendly steels. The BR shoes were 30% off and will be a staple in my wardrobe. They are cushioned and really comfortable. The jeans are from Nordstroms and were $54.00 in the BP department. I had my eye on a similar pair of Current Elliot jeans that retail for $220.00. Clearly, this purchase was a no brainer.

{many thanks to "O" for snapping pics}

*If you're new to Chic Geek and haven't seen some of my post on "O" you have to check them out. She is a personal stylist and recently had her wedding featured in a mag. Drawing on her previous experience as an interior designer she developed and executed every creative detail for the big day. Check out the post by clicking here.

Happy Early Weekend

It was so windy today but the warmth brought the first real sign of spring. My best friend "O" is flying into town tomorrow afternoon, so I'm looking forward to a relaxing weekend.

xx

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Pastels+Pleats=Happiness

Loving these lightweight dresses for spring and summer. For cooler weather I would belt it with a thick belt and add a light jacket. Once the weather warms up I would try a thinner belt to keep the look light and airy. Throw on some accessories, and your done. It's such a staple... now if I could only decide on a color? Which do you like best?

Shop the look here at Topshop

$100.00

A Guest Post

Today I'm guest posting for my friend Landi, of Lou Lou's Life Lesson's. I'm highlighting one of my favorite Spring trends, peplum! Head on over to check out her adorable blog, and my post. There, you'll find the list of sources for the above items. Can you guess which piece is my favorite? I have one that wins by a long shot. Do you have a fave?

Thanks for having me Landi!

xx

Feature Wall

Here's the latest update. On Friday I painted a feature wall. I used Valspar "Steel" paint with an eggshell finish. Total cost of the project was about fifty for paint, rollers, painters tape etc. It's a low budget, high impact project that doesn't take a lot of time to complete.

I like the dark color because it not only anchors the room, but also highlights the lines of the headboard. The upholstered headboard was a total steel! I'm not willing to truly invest in a bed yet, so this choice from Wayfair was a perfect fit. It's the Skyline High Arch Headboard in Parchment. I love the lines, height, and nailhead detail. It retails for $279.99 and you can find it here.

Before the feature wall my vintage chandelier blended in with the decor. Now, set against they dark wall, it really pops. I'm still in the process of switching out bedding. I love the idea of yellow which will complement the grey, but I'm also drawn to this vintage plums fabric.

Decorating takes such patience!

Happy Friday!

This was a long busy week for me. A little chaotic but was able to check off lots of important to-do's. My reward? Painting a feature wall this evening in my bedroom. Remember the inspiration post here? I'm going with a dark gray to highlight the headboard. Fabric is still not ordered but I have a swatch of vintage plums I'm excited about.

Hope you all have a fabulous weekend!

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xx

Design Daring Boutique is Live!

Design Darling's latest venture, her very own online boutique, is now live! Head on over to the brand new site and get your shop on!

Congratulations Mackenzie!

xx