March Madness!

If you weren't a follower of Rachel Roy before, you should start following Rachel Roy's designs now.  She has been a fashion icon for years after marring and divorcing Damon Dash of Roc-a-Fella Records.  A seemingly MUCH classier version of Kimora Simons.  Rachel's designs American Classics, but has now launched a 'sister' label called Rachel Rachel Roy retailing at affordable prices.... I'm in love.  http://www.rachelroy.com/RRR/LOOKBOOK_MAIN,default,pg.html

So simple and pink!



New Apartment Ideas

While some people dread the thought of moving, I welcome it with open arms and eyes! I think of an empty apartment like a blank canvas.  I could not be more excited to reinvent my new home in Old Town.

Object of Desire #1     Tufted Leather Sofa

Mixed with a pair of swing arm task lighting make a functional reading area without taking up space on a side table.

My new apartment has a cozy spot for banquet seating and a interesting layout for a well lit party.

BEFORE

Hopefully after.....

Stay tuned for new apartment updates....

Today's Obsession: Blue Lacquered Walls

Blue Lacquered Walls

It couldn't be better than this... High Gloss royal blue walls make a great back drop to this 'Parlor Wall' of art with Pink Peonies and Gold Leaf Table .  Love Love Love!

Blue mixed with pops of red or pink and a black and white floor seem to be the formula.

Inspiration:

Tartans

After visiting Brimfield last weekend I've been trying to think of ways to incorporate more plaid and tartans into my daily routine and life.  I'm also feeling a tad self conscious about my new RayBan frames with 1" thick lenses and found this girl to be a cute inspiration. 

Smart Green Tartan Dresses

Tartan Ties

Plaid City Cabins with Gold Flecks of Asian Accents

Chicago Design Retail Scene:Brimfield

BRIMFIELD on Clark street in Andersonville



One of my favorite hot spots for inspiration on a rainy Sunday (like yesterday in Chicago) is Brimfield in Andersonville.  This shop is filled with army surplus, revamped estate sale finds, plaids&tartans, antlers, vintage skis, and cabin/cottage novelties.

I watched my good friend Erin purchase two tartan upholstered rod iron chairs (similar to this one) and a sweater pillow as a cozy addition to her Lincoln Park apartment.

February red inspiration

RED AND PINK WITH LOVE ALL OVER

ANTIQUE RED TUFTED SOFA WITH PINK TRIM

DOWN ON THE INSIDE AND OUT RED VELVET THROW PILLOW COVERED IN DOWN

RED HIDE RUG TO KEEP YOUR TOOTSIES WARM

COZY UP WITH A LOVER

PERHAPS A FLORIDA ESCAPE

CHILL OUT WITH PINKS AND BLUES

ORANGE AND PINK!

BE FEMININE WITHOUT TRYING TOO HARD

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!!

REMEMBER SPRING IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER

Chicago Design Retail Scene: Branca

Alexandra Branca is one of Chicago's most well known designers and has been sharing her good taste with Chicago patrons since 2008 after opening Branca on East Pearson street.  Her signature color 'red' flocks the windows and the striped black&white awning is hard to miss.

 $1000.00 Gold Leaf applied to trophy antlers adds a polished twist to a rustic trophy.

In addition to selling antiques, gifts, and accessories she has her own listing on 1st dibs http://www.1stdibs.com/  a commonly used tool by most designers.

Her Color palates and attention to detail are promonate in most of her work and items she chooses for her store.

Branca Table Top

Trimming every nook and cranny outlines the room with clean lines and adds a tailored twist.

'BRANCAIZED' DRESSER