The Juju Headress

In West Africa in the mountains of Cameroon.  During royal court affairs, the celebrants of these kingdoms wear a spectacular headdress known as the Tyn or Juju hat. The hat is worn by the chiefs, senior dignitaries, prominent officials and important dancers. This large bright hat consists of multi-colored bird feathers. The feathers range in a wide variety of colors including white. The feathers are carefully sewn onto a raffia fiber base, covered with material on the outside that splays out into a huge circle. When not in use between festivities, the Tyn hat can be neatly folded in on itself for easy storage. The feathers are utilized as rare objects of beauty, as a symbol of prosperity and for the wealth of positive qualities associated with birds. 

I've been looking on obscure websites and Ebay for a inexpensive version, but haven't had luck in finding one for under $300.  How can we make our own?

 

I like how they can be used as an accent or focal point of a space.

The White Headdress looks the most understated.



CHEVRON

Mommy's newest obsession..... Chevron!!

Chevron may refer to:

• The general shape of a V character, or a triangular shape pointing up or more often, down.

'A' pril shaped

Chevron tiles in a cleanlined bathroom

I could see this is my home.  Pink chevron rug with pink Morracan leather ottomans.

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.