Chic and Glamorous Art for the Fashion Lover

Good art isn't always easy to find. Etsy has made it easier though, and has made it possible to connect a lot of artists with people who love art that isn't mass produced or unattainable to most of us. One Etsy artist I'm loving is the Lady Gatsby shop with fashion inspired prints.

I love watercolors, and then paired with the subject matter - gorgeous perfume bottles, shoes, etc., there are quite a few pieces I'd love for my master bath and office. I was lucky enough to receive a gorgeous Chanel No. 5 print and some super chic correspondence cards, and they look even better in person!

Here are a few other prints and cards I'm loving:

Love it?  See more at Lady Gatsby

disclosure: I received these prints as a sample

Guest Rooms You Won't Want to Leave!

Our spare bedroom has been on my mind lately since warm weather is on its way and tends to bring visitors with it! I'm excited to be hosting since we have a home and space to do it now. Here is some guest room eye candy that I might not want to leave if I got the chance to stay:

via elmueble
Don't fill a guest room up with too much furniture unless it's furniture they can use to spread their stuff out on.  A chair or bench is nice to have.  Floor space or a luggage rack gives them a place to keep luggage.  You don't want them putting luggage on the bed.

Stunning! via Honeysuckle Life

via Pinterest via Carla Aston
Using two twin beds means you can accommodate couples or non-couples.

Most of us probably don't have space like the home above, so tighter quarters can make the most of square footage by utilizing a daybed that looks and functions as a sofa, but also as a bed for visitors.
via Pinterest via Addicted 2 Decorating

I think a guest bedroom is a great place to try an accent color, wallpaper, or other design trend that you're nervous to use in the rest of the house.  Since you aren't necessarily in your guest room everyday, it isn't an element you'll have to live with constantly if it proves to be too much.

via Creative Influences

Generally in my book, futons are a no-no, but this one is looking pretty chic.
via Houzz

Tips On Searching for an Apartment as A New Mom

Finding apartments for rent isn’t easy. You worry about location, size and amenities. If you’re a new mom, you have even more to think about. Finding an apartment that works not only for you, but also for your baby is a top priority for new moms. Here are some things to look for during your apartment search.

via yankeemagazine

1. Location

Location is a primary concern for all apartment seekers, but even more so for new moms. Getting an apartment close to work and day care is priceless. Babies require a lot of work and saving time is important. Look for rental properties near work, friends, relatives, and day care. Even if you pay a little more or if you have to accept a slightly smaller place, the advantages will likely far outweigh the drawbacks.


via weheartit

2. Security

Keeping your baby safe is on the top of the list for all new moms. Let’s say you’re looking for apartments in Orange County, for example. While this is a very nice area, crime isn’t negligible and having a secure entry point, gated or monitored parking, security cameras, and even an on-site security guard can really put a new mom’s mind at ease. There are plenty of other things for moms to be concerned about – security shouldn’t be one of them.




via thebooandtheboy

3. Extra Space

Contrary to what you might thing, babies actually take up a lot of room. New moms are always surprised at how much space such a little person needs. Think twice before deciding to have the baby share a room with you. New parents need some breathing room. Initially it may be nice to have the baby in your room, but after a while you’ll want the baby to have his or her own space so you don’t wake up startled at every little sneeze. You’ll also need plenty of space for diapers, a crib, baby clothes and lots and lots of fun baby toys!


via kvanum

4. Storage

Speaking of needing extra space, new moms will also want to check for extra storage space. Whether it’s a small garage area or big closet under the stairs, it’s a great idea to make sure you have space to store items that your baby has already grown out of, or hasn’t grown into yet.


via ebay

5. Safety

Above all else, you want to find apartments for rent that are safe for a new baby. If you have to walk up a lot of stairs to get into your unit, it may be difficult to lug the stroller, baby seat, diaper bag and baby – and you certainly don’t want to leave the baby unattended while you run back for the second load! You’ll also want to check for upgraded appliances, new paint, and clean, up-to-date electrical wiring. Safety guards on outlets and other child-proofing features are a huge plus.

Inspiration for your outdoor space (if Spring ever gets here!)

We are officially four days into spring, and even though we've barely felt the warm temperatures around here, I can't help but daydream of what I would love to be doing to our outdoor space! We moved into our home last year mid summer and didn't really get a chance to enjoy spring. Here's some inspiration I've found that I'd love to incorporate in my outdoor area:

via designsponge

I like the idea of having some of outdoor space covered for really hot days so I can still enjoy the outdoors in the shade!

via potterybarn

Although we aren't near the beach, I love the driftwood used as decor, and the big throw pillows for a homey feel.  And check out that giant clamshell planter!

via interiormagasinet

The huge potted plants are stunning in this space. It makes a great sense of privacy for the table and chairs while also being beautiful.

This space doesn't need a lot of words, that outdoor kitchen...dreamy

via Pinterest via Chic Coastal Living

Love the container gardens...I just wish I had the luck to keep them alive.
via Pinterest

I really like outdoor spaces that feel like the indoors.  This space is like an outdoor living room.
via Pinterest

via tumblr

There's something about large outdoor curtains that scream luxury to me! The bring a little of the indoor out, great for privacy, and creating shade when you need it.

What plans do you have for your outdoor space this season?

Chic and beautiful lighting

I am a sucker for a beautiful lighting fixture but am always very nervous when faced with having to commit to one.  There are so many and most cost a pretty penny, so I'm always worried I will regret a very expensive decision.  So ever since we moved into our new home in June I have been gathering inspiration for when we are ready to change our lighting (which is high on my priority list)  I've decided that to build my confidence, I am going to start with changing out the hallway light fixtures since they will be smaller and less expensive than a chandelier for above our dining room table or a pendant for the master bedroom. Although it might not seem that big of a deal, hallways are one of the most used light fixtures in a home and are often left on, so they shouldn't be neglected.

It's important when changing out something that's going to be around for a while, especially if you have a small budget like us, to think about the style and decor of the rest of your home so that they tie into the design you've already started or will work if you decide to change your flooring, wall color, etc.

via belgianpearls

Something a little more elegant and classy is a much better fit for this space. The mix of modern and historical is great match for the rest of the home decor. If the light fixtures were any more traditional and flashy than these I probably wouldn't like the space as much.

via ruemag

Something more artsy and eccentric stands out in this space but still fits in with the theme of the home. This is a great example of having something that catches your eye but doesn't take away from the space.

via georgiandesign

Mixing and matching may be the best idea for hallways that are connecting multiple rooms. This works well with eclectic styles but if done correctly you can mix and match any type of home decor style. Keeping the light fixtures in the same family or "collection" but in different styles is the best way to achieve this.

via Margot Austin
I'm really loving the look of drum style pendant lights in the hall.  The slim console with a lamp is a nice touch and adds a cozy feel.

via Arcadian Home
Again, really liking the drum style pendants.  If you can manage, space ceiling fixtures about 8 to 10 feet apart in a hallway.

Small Spaces: Defining a space

More and more people are choosing smaller spaces to call home. They tend to be more efficient and don't take as much time to clean ( a big perk for me), and are easier to maintain. Sometimes it's hard to define a certain area or space as it's own but all of my tiny NYC apartments have allowed me to try out almost all of these ideas. Here are some of my favorites.

via housebeautiful

For me, feeling like I had a little privacy while sleeping was crucial. Creating a foot board that creates some privacy for the bed is a great way to define the bedroom space. I also love the entryway table they used against to the foot board to create a real wall look.

via pinterest

Looking for a not so permanent solution? A rod with a curtain can do the trick. You can keep it open and airy or close it off for privacy. A sheer or semi-sheer curtain is important to help filter light through though. 

via Apartment Therapy

On the topic of light, it's important to choose window treatments that will allow for maximum light to come through.  Make sure when you open the curtains you'll be able to pull them completely to the edges of the windows.  Also make sure you have proper ambient lighting to prevent dark shadows which will make the room seem smaller.

via pinterest

A very budget friendly solution is to purchase an open bookshelf like the one above to use as a wall space. The fact that it doubles as storage is really important since small spaces tend to lack storage space. This is one of my favorite tips and I've used it in the past.  You can find similar, inexpensive modular shelving at Ikea.  Mine has held up well over the years.

via decor8

Consider raising up a space! This creates a ton of storage space and puts one part of your space above the rest. This is a great solution if there's not enough square footage to create storage otherwise. 

Sweet Dreams: Parachute Bedding

I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to try out some new luxe bed linens by Parachute.  I have to say, they are quite divine, and they will not suck your piggy bank dry.  When I first opened my box from parachute,  my first two thoughts were "wow they are super soft," and "I love the color."

The product I received was their signature bedding set, The Venice, in their ash color.  The Venice includes a fitted sheet, duvet cover, and 2 pillowcases.  It also comes to you in a thoughtfully designed bundle (see below).

The sheets are a really nice balance of crispness and suppleness, which makes for great reading in bed and a nice temperature that isn't too cold when you first slide in bed.  The bedding is made with high quality cotton and manufactured in Italy.

No, I don't iron my sheets.

Below are some professional photos from the Parachute site that show off the product much better than mine.

If you are looking for some fresh bedding for spring, I would definitely consider Parachute.  See and learn more at parachutehome.com


disclosure: I received bedding from Parachute as a sample

Inspiration for mixing and matching bedding

I love mix and match bedding, and can't wait to pick out the linens for our bed once our wedding is over and we have time to focus on decorating.

I love unexpected mixes like the leopard pillows with the ikat pillow.
via Pinterest via Heart Deco

via designstories

If you doubt your ability to mix patterns, start off with one color in different patterns, and add one accent pillow in another color. A monochrome palette will be foolproof.

via sarahmdorsey

via elementsofstyle

via Pinterest via  Indulgy
If you have an upholstered headboard in a non-neutral color, you will need to consider it when selecting your bedding.

via  Indulgy

New bedding and linens is probably one of the easier ways to make a big impact if you are looking for a change.

Ideas for using pattern in your decor (especially if you're afraid of it)

While I'm transitioning my house from winter to spring, I keep seeing all these fun prints I want to incorporate in my home decor. Here's a few that have caught my eye:

via pinterest

I love to mix and match accent pillows and since these are the easiest and most budget friendly way to change up the colors in your home, they are on the top of my list.

unknown

A pattern in neutral colors like the checkers on the floor means you don't have to be married to one color palette. You can swap out different accent colors through out the year.

via theglitterguide

Don't be afraid to go bold! This rug is eye catching and I like that it stands out a little since rugs tend to hide behind the rest of the home decor. 

via houzz

I love the look of these chairs. Between the studs and pattern only being on the back side. It give sit a glamorous yet fun look to it.

via Heidi Claire via MadeByGirl

The entryway is a great place to try a little pattern because there isn't a lot of space to be overwhelmed.  It also creates impact right from the start since it's usually the first area of your home someone sees.

Cozy but still stylish - living rooms and dens

I thought I'd bring you some inspiration today to go along with this windy rainy weather. It makes for a great day to curl up on the couch or in a big comfy chair with a good book! Hope you enjoy:

via pinterest

via refinery29

via pinterest

via Angie Hranowsky

Sunwood Blinds