Missoni for Target - Success

I was pretty annoyed on that faithful September day when I found myself like thousands (millions?) of others desperately trying to get their hands on some Missoni goods on the Target website, only to find the site had  crashed.  Despite my early efforts to "beat the online crowd," I wasn't able to order anything until 11am PST.  By then, most items had sold out.  Here is what I was able to scoop up:

Thus far I have received the skirt and the platter.  Both are fabulous, obvs.  I anxiously await my other items.

In other news, the weather is not that great in San Francisco this week so I decided to bust out my new Missoni skirt.  Here is the end result.

I'd also like to point out that while walking to work this morning, I was crossing the street and heard "You have the cutest skirt!" yelled at me.  I turned around to find an adorable Muni driver hanging out of her bus window.  Success!

Happy Missoni everyone :)

San Francisco Vintage Expo

And an expo it was. I'm not sure I've ever seen so many vintage items in one spot. It was moderately overwhelming.  When I look for vintage pieces, I tend to narrow my focus to jewelry.  It wasn't really until this expo that I ever wanted any clothing.

The venue was pretty gigantic and had around 80 sellers. And these people came from all over the US.  Not just SF as I had initially thought. I will say this, there were a fair amount of men hunting for vintage goods.  More than I figured there would be.

Sticking to what I know best, I picked up 4 broaches.

Top left: I have never seen a broach like this before. The bottom layer of rhinestones are flowy and add more interest to an already cool piece.

Top right: It's a bow. Done deal.

Bottom left: This is another example of something I've never seen before. The shape and stone layout of this broach made it a must have.

Bottom right: Super cool. Great color and interesting. Perfection.

Needless to say, I am extremely excited to incorporate these pieces into my wardrobe!

Is it too early to shop for Halloween?

This is a problem I deal with every year. Usually by the end of August/early September, stores start rolling out their Halloween decorations.  Next to Christmas there is no other holiday I look forward to.  And let's be honest.  Halloween and Christmas have the best decorations.  Here are some of the things that are on my list so far:

West Elm

Skeleton plates - $16-$18

Talk about a must have.  I can't think of a better vessel to present apps. 

Skull taper holder - $34

Anything Day of the Dead is a-ok in my book but this has more than that going for it. The terracotta style and the flowers really make this pop. Definitely a statement piece. 

Bottle openers - $8-$14

There is something about the vampire teeth bottle opener that is both fabulous and hilarious.  2 characteristics I definitely look for when adding items to our apartment.  

Pottery Barn

Skeleton hand condiment set - $59

Put this with the skeleton app plates and you've got quite the party. 

Mice - $19

There is something about these guys that I just really like and I don't know what it is.  They're more cute than creepy but fun nonetheless. 

I hope you are all getting Halloween inspired a little early this year.

Stay-Cation takes on a new meaning

There is something fancy and cool about vintage suitcases.  Clearly they are no longer practical because who really wants to carry a suitcase anymore? I don't. However, I wouldn't mind having some scattered around the house as functioning art.  


When I saw this on Fancy That, my jaw dropped.  

How amazing is that?!  This would be an amazing conversation piece in any space.  Think of it this way.  Every time you go to open a drawer, it's kinda like being on vacation and grabbing something out of your suitcase :)


Visit here to pick one up for yourself!


Happy long weekend kids!

Dream Shoes: Armani & Valentino

While in Southern California last weekend, I spotted some amazing shoes in storefront windows.

Georgio Armani

Gorgeous and timeless. That's the only way I can think of describing these shoes. Love the added detailing with the bow. So pretty.

Valentino

While I didn't snap my own photo of these, the glare was awful, these little beauties were shouting my name from their post in the Valentino window. How amazing are these?! Love the cream and black coloring as well as the studs. The odd cut outs make this shoe even more interesting and desirable.

My next mission is to find a more affordable version of these Valentino's...

Interior Inspiration: Happiest Place on Earth

I spent this past weekend in Disneyland and was really surprised by some of the great art that was showcased in 2 of the stores in Downtown Disney. Before you tell me I'm crazy, these are not your typical or traditional style Disney paintings. Nothing could make me happier than someone taking a dark or vintage interpretation of my favorite Disney movies. Here are some of my favorites.

Snow White by Jenny Chung

I was, and still am, a huge Snow White fan. I think it's because I've spent most of my life trying to achieve her perfect bob :) I digress. This painting immediately stood out to me when we walked into Vault 28. The colors are so vibrant and I love the subtle anime style the artist used. I am actively campaigning to the bf that we need this in our apartment.

Alice in Wonderland by Greg McCullough

This is such an interesting scene in the movie and this artist did a great job at capturing it without making it look too much like a literal translation. The rich and vibrant colors add to the fantastic expression on Alice's face.

Ratatouille

I cannot describe how bad I want this so we can hang it above our bar. It's adorable. It's got a slightly vintage look to it. Perfection. And Remy's expression looks so fun and inviting. Who wouldn't want a glass of wine?!

Maleficent by Steven Daily

Easily my favorite villain of all. (The Evil Queen is a close #2) Her look and her attitude makes it impossible to not appreciate how fantastic she really is. Truly amazing. And the slightly Victorian feel of this painting is incredible.

Hopefully you will take a look into your childhood for some unexpected inspiration!

Adventures in Estate Sale Shopping

The bf and I woke up early on Saturday, thanks to our upstairs neighbors, and I thought it seemed like the perfect day to go to an estate sale. We got super lucky and discovered there was one happening super close to our apartment.

I love going to estate sales simply because I like owning things from the past. Especially when you incorporate the old pieces with current pieces. Here are 2 brooches I picked up.

The bf thought this brooch was too bizarre to pass up and really sold me on purchasing it. I can honestly say, I've never seen a brooch that is a basket full of flowers. Interesting indeed. You can't tell too much from this picture but it looks like it's hand-painted. There is minimal paint damage and the overall quality is pretty excellent.

I thought this was darling the moment I saw it. Such adorable, Spring colors. And the detailing of the colored rhinestones in the middle of each flower was just too much to pass on. This one also appears to be hand-painted and the condition is a little more flawed than the other. Nonetheless, it's still pretty and will fit into my collection nicely.

Not pictured here is the cheese plate that I purchased as well. Not that a cheese plate is particularly exciting but I've always wanted one and it was pretty and apparently from Italy. Certainly a nice find!

Hope you are all finding some vintage pretty in your lives.

Outfit Planner - Rocker Chic

Today I woke up desperately wanting to dress like I was going to a concert in 1987 with a 2011 twist. Don't ask. I really don't have a good explanation for you. Instead, just enjoy what I came up with!

I typically only handle leopard print in moderation. Shoes. Cardigan. But red leopard print just seems so much cooler! Plus love the loose look of the top and the ability to leave it tucked or untucked.

- Marc Jacobs via Nordstrom $278

Ankle length skinnies in a super dark wash are always a go-to and instant favorite.

- Forever 21 $10.50

These booties are currently haunting my dreams. They are to die for! Love the zipper. Love the pointed toe. Love the wedge heel. Perfection!

- Sigerson Morrison via Piperlime $295

And to finish the look off, a very cool, structured bag. The gold detailing dresses it up a little and the lock and chain make it subtly rocker fab. Just a really great looking bag.

- River Island Padlock Frame Bag via Asos $69

Hoping you are all finding your inner rocker today :)

Oh sheet!

After our exhausting apartment hunt, the bf and I put matters like 1) new duvet 2) new couch pillows 3) wall art, etc. on the back burner. About a month or so back, I stumbled upon our answer to the duvet debate. A great little gem from West Elm.

Adorable right? The color is a little mustard with some green undertones. And it goes great with our charcoal and slate blue carpet squares (from CB2). However. By solving this problem, we created a new one. The need for new sheets. I have never had such a hard time finding sheets. Perhaps this is due from needing approval from one person (me) and not 2 (me + bf). Yesterday we decided enough is enough and we need to decide this week because we simply cannot take it anymore. Or, perhaps I should rephrase and say, I cannot take it anymore. There is something about horribly mismatched bedding that just irks me.

I should mention that this issue was almost solved during a routine visit to Target but our beloved sheet set was out of stock. (And coincidentally still is online.)

We seem to be zoning in on variations of browns, grays and dark blues. Here are the options we're currently entertaining.

Sticking with the West Elm idea, these offer a nice contrasting color (coffee) with a print for added visual interest.

CB2 has a traditional clean gray set that seems both basic and fresh.

Target has these from the Thomas O'Brien collection and right now, these are my front runners. It's a little 'the one that got away' and a little West Elm. (And yes, these are different than the ones from West Elm.)

Did I mention I also need a bed skirt?! Sigh.

How do you decide on bedding???

Shoes on the Street

So as I was walking to catch the bus yesterday, I stumbled across 2 girls wearing some pretty cool shoes.

While these are a bit intense, that's exactly why I wanted to showcase them. If she wore these all day, kudos to her! These shoes are all kinds of cool. Fierce bootie. Studs. Gray/neutral color. Zipper. Peep toe. All these elements should be too much but somehow it all works.

I should also point out that she was sporting a pretty cute outfit too.

As you may have gathered from previous posts, here and here, I am a fan of shoes with hardware and/or spikes. These were the cutest unassuming Mary Jane's I've seen in a while. Adorable!!

Store Obsession: Anthropologie

For as long as I can remember Anthropologie has been a force to be reckoned with. With clothing from whimsical designers, great pieces for your house or apartment and a plethora of fabulous shoes, who doesn't like this store?! The lovely people over at Anthro recently sent a catalog to my apartment that was bursting with gorgeous clothing and style ideas. Here are some of the things that I'm loving.

Jaunty Bow Heels $378

How gloriously nautical are these? I can think of a million ways to wear these with my current wardrobe. Placing on wish list now...

Dandelion Dress $128

Adorable and just the right amount of vintage. And did I mention classy?

Fernery Top $88

Perhaps I'm letting my upcoming trip to Hawaii cloud my mind, but all I want to do is wear this top with white shorts while drinking a mai tai.

Go-Everywhere Tote $148

While I'm not the biggest bug fan on the planet, this bag is super versatile and adorable. Love the colors and the shape.

Astrid Chair $1,698

Simply because there is nothing higher on my list of "needed" household items than an awesomely printed chair.

Happy shopping everyone!

Short Print

I'm pretty sure growing up in Sacramento summers made me a huge fan of shorts. I love shorts. And, I get really excited when it's nice in the city so I can wear said shorts. This spring/summer I have become obsessed with owning a pair of printed shorts. But they have to be cool. (duh, right?)

Here are some acceptable options I've come across:

1. Love the color of the print and how comfortable these look. (Forever21)

2. Who doesn't love classy and understated leopard? Win! (Loft)

3. While I think these shorts are far too expensive, the spacing of the stripes and color choice is perfect. (JCrew)

4. I like these shorts simply because the print looks like the wallpaper in my Great Grandparents house. Awesome. (Forever21)

5. Yes I'm aware these aren't printed but that color is so vibrant and cheery! (Asos)

6. Like the first pair of shorts, these look super comfy and have an adorable feather print. (Asos)

Have a great weekend!

Household Chic - Jonathan Adler

Ever since I moved to the Filmore area, I have become very acquainted with the Jonathan Adler store. His designs and concepts can be described in 3 words: Simple. Color. Fun. Adding any of his pieces to your home will instantly change the look of a room. I'm convinced.

Here are some things that have recently caught my eye.

1. A cute and curious fox to brighten a mantle.

2. Add some spunk to dinner with these dishes.

3. A hilarious canister for kitty treats.

4. Grab a last glance on your way out the door with this fun mirror.

5. If only butter was always served in a dachshund shaped dish.

6. Colorful and graphic rug to spice up any living space.

Hope you are all finding something fun and whimsical today!

Packin' Up

I frequently get comments on the purses I carry. They are less the "I love your bag!" or "Where did you get that?" and more of the "What do you carry in that thing?!" and "How much does your purse weigh?!" I'm a sucker for a carry-all bag. Sorry.

Despite all the negatives, I still love me a giant purse :) Here are a couple that have recently caught my eye.

Poppie Jones quilted crossbody bag - $30 DSW

I saw this and thought, 'Oh that's cute.' Then I saw the price and thought, 'Ok. I need to buy this.' So cute. So reasonable. What's not to love?

Foley + Corinna Mid City - $276 Piperlime

Color is perfect. The option to use the cross-body strap as well as the double shoulder strap makes it really versatile.

Leather bag with leopard - $147 Asos

While I'm not a huge fan of leopard, it's pretty hard to deny that it does not make a statement when done correctly. This bag is one of those examples. This is perfection.

Audrey Brooke Getaway Satchel - $100 DSW

The color is what drew me to this purse. It's gorgeous. Love the detailing with the buckles. Again, multiple straps. (That seems to be a trend with this post) Just a really nice, pretty bag.

I hope you are all finding the perfect carry-all bag for this holiday weekend. Have a Happy 4th everyone!

Black As Night

For the past few months, I have been obsessing over owning the perfect black watch. A black watch is the perfect alternative to my giant, silver Betsey Johnson watch I wear daily, this is mainly because I can also wear it with gold jewelry. (I have a strict 'no mixing metals' policy.)

I bought what I thought was a decent watch from Target that pretty much encapsulated all the elements I was looking for. Metal band with links, a simple face and all black. I took said watch on a business trip to NY and imagine my surprise as I'm sitting in an all day conference, that I had been at for a good 4 hours, and the time has moved 5 minutes. Needless to say, this is a return. My fears were confirmed right then and there that I wasn't going to get off that easy. My precious black watch was going to cost more than had planned on paying.

Michael Kors 'Madison' - Nordstrom - $250

This is the watch that started the craze. It's gorgeous!

DKNY - Nordstrom - $165

A potentially nice alternative however the face is brighter than I would like. Nice style over all.

I looked at a couple of sites and these are the 2 best options, under $300 mind you, that I could find. There was a pretty Movado that I wouldn't mind having...

Hope you are all telling time on a pretty timepiece!

Needed Renovation

Happy Tuesday everyone!

I don't know if all the HGTV renovation shows I watch are to blame or what, but this blog is over a year old and hasn't changed visually since its launch. I wanted to put up a quick note letting you know that you are not seeing things. The look of my blog is changing! The bf promised to help me get the seamless look I want, so until then, please put up with my ever-changing background and layout :) I promise it'll be awesome when everything is done.

Thank you!!

-d

Raining On My Parade

While I prepare myself for potential rain tomorrow, yes it's almost July, I find myself revisiting my hunt for an umbrella stand. While this may not seem practical to some, living in San Francisco in an apartment makes it necessary. Yes, we've grown tired of letting our umbrellas dry in the bathtub.

I do have a few requirements:

- Must have a solid bottom. (What's the point of putting a wet umbrella in something that will just leak on the floor?)

- Must have character.

- Must be metal. (With the way Zero runs through the apartment, I don't need him breaking anything.)

I find it silly to purchase a new umbrella stand so I'm on the hunt for a vintage one. Etsy seemed like the perfect place for said hunt.

The paint makes this quite desirable to me. Love the flowers with the black background. This would definitely tuck nicely away behind our door without being a total eyesore.

Talk about character! How cute is the illustration?! It has great color as well. And it's kinda vintage (1981). Could be a contender.

Fabulously vintage indeed! In its first life, I imagine this stand was placed on tile similar to what is shown in the photo and accompanied by some amazing decor. There is nothing that I dislike about this item at all. Pure vintage fab.

While the rust is far too much for me to handle, I thought this potential stand deserved an honorable mention. The colors of the swirls really make this interesting and fun. I just wish it didn't have so much rust, but I suppose that is expected with something from the 50's.

I hope you are all keeping dry and if you're not, I hope you find something fabulous and stylish to hold your umbrellas!

Fake it 'til you make it - Christian Louboutin & Chanel

As a self proclaimed addict of Christian Louboutin & Chanel shoes, I am plagued with the reminder that I don't actually own any. You may ask, why is that? Well, it's because I can't seem to find an extra $700 (minimum) laying around our apartment. While I desperately want to own the real thing and have the satisfaction of showing off that delicious red sole or those iconic C's, I have decided that faking it is my best option. Which brings up a new problem, there aren't many shoes out there that look exactly like Louboutins or Chanel. So I went for concept and design over exact look-alike execution.

Beatrix - Sam Edelman - Nordstrom $130

I ordered these little beauties this week and am anxiously awaiting their arrival. The color combo is a bit Chanel and the studs are a little Christian Louboutin.

These were my inspiration:

Gorgeous and a bit bad ass. Dreamy. Like I said, not the exact same shoe by any means, but the concept is there. A studded toe seems like a marvelous idea if you ask me. Simple design with a bit of fierceness. And I can never argue against black and white. Simply perfect.

I hope you are all feeling inspired today!

Sherbet Swirl

I realized this weekend that the bf and I will be embarking on our Hawaiian getaway in less than one month! (Yay!) It was at this time that I realized I am incredibly pale and need a good straw hat. For some reason, orange swirl seems like the obvious color combo for said hat. Why you ask? No reason. It's not like a have one full matching swim suit. Haha. Plus, orange swirl is fun. It's never offended anyone.

Here are some favs:

Juicy Couture Stripe Floppy Paper Straw Hat - Nordstrom $78

Color Swirl Floppy Hat - Forever21 $12.80

Newport News Striped Straw Sun Hat - Amazon $24

Hope you are all finding something fun and colorful today.