A Monochromatic New Year, Plus Sequins

via Tumblr

New Years is a time to raise the stakes. It has a carnival-esque feel that borders on costumey. If this suits your personal style, by all means dress the part. My style is reined in, and I prefer to be inspired by costumes and incorporate elements here and there. Sequins up the excitement with every outfit, but they're best in pieces rather than all over. Below are a few items you can add to any outfit for instant glam:

Find them here:





Pants, shorts, tunic.

via Tumblr

This years has been very eventful for me! I have graduated from college, travelled, worked in a career I love, entering grad school and started this blog. I hope 2012 brings many more great experiences for me and all you readers. Have a wonderful New Year!

Bright, Cozy and Contemporary

Now that the holidays are over, I have to find other ways to make the winter months bearable. If you follow me on Twitter, I have made it plain that drinking hot apple cider gets me through most days. Also in constant rotation is my fireplace. It's one of my favorite elements of any home. The one in my home is quite large, stately and traditional. However, I'm always up for a contemporary upgrade. Here are few for inspiration:

                  

Sources: One, Two, Three, Four, Five.

A Quick Holiday Post

                  

Merry Xmas and Happy Holidays!
Images: One, Two, Three

P.S. -make sure to check out my Tumblr blog sometime!

Holiday Sweaters, Minus the Irony

It's common knowledge that people can go a bit overboard during the holidays. Sweaters can easily go from 'ironic' to 'cheesy,' we've all seen it. But there are still ways to get into the spirit without compromising your own fashionable standards. Here are a few ways to keep the holidays interesting and updated with graphic knits:

Find them here: 1. Wilderness sweater, 2. Cozy pattern pullover, 3. Bow detail sweater,
4. Snowman knit, and 5. Loose-knit two tone.

Sad Harry Potter image via Wikia.

P.S. I apologize for the lack of posts lately; my personal life took prevalence for a while. I look forward to posting more frequently in the future. Happy Holidays!

Use Your (Re)Imagination: ModCloth

ModCloth is a site for those who are not really interested in the "now." This girl brushes up on her history, and take a hint from the photos of the past. Over at ModCloth clothing, accessories and household items are there for the taking, whether you're after vintage pieces from a bygone era or textiles and cuts reminiscent of the past few decades. Here are a few ModCloth pieces to take you back:

You can find them here: Retro dress, Mod heel, Jumper, Satchel, Knit sweater.
Holiday dress, Wrap dress, Platform heel, Feather cuff.

Simple, Rustic Charm

This week I'm really into hand-crafted items. They give everything more meaning, don't you think. The thought that someone out there just like you can create beautiful things is exciting; it gives the things around you a personal story. And what's more, it proves you can make interesting items too if you commit to it! To illustrate this, here's a site called Nightwood that reinvents old furniture to fit a modern aesthetic. Enjoy!

Celestine Couch, Geometric Painting, Whitman dresser.

Monday Motivation

via Etsy

Sometimes its okay to feel a little rough around the edges. Raw energy can have an endearing charm about it. New and shiny might catch my eye more often, but lately I've been learning to appreciate the appeal of more rustic elements. Being rough around the edges coincides with my current project— my War Against the Treadmill. I admit, last week it won a battle but I won't let it win the war. Hopefully my personal inspiration can translate into an aesthetic appeal for you as well! Have a great week, everyone.

Contemporary Glam: Room with a View

I'm starting my weekend with daydreams of my future.

The beauty of nature + the allure of modernity = happiness for Jay Bijou!

via Contemporist

Have a great weekend!

Contemporary Lace

When you think of lace, you most likely picture old doily cloths or ancient wedding gowns. Lace can look old and stuffy pretty easily, and it takes some effort  and innovation to take it from Old Lady to Contemporary Woman. This season it comes in all colors and cuts. Designers have transformed it from a safe, boring choice to a risk in fashion. Below are a few lace styles available this Fall.

Find them here: 1. Romper, 2. Dahlia Dress, 3. Lace detail boot, 4. Tank, 5. Melly Dress.

More things to love about Fall: Jewel Tones

I know its cheesy, but one of my biggest style icons is my mom. I've been saying for 22 years that when I grow up I wanna dress just like her. We've both pledged to add more color to our closets, and this fall we're both loving jewel tones. They're based on colors found in precious stones like emerald,  topaz and sapphire. I love them because you can have elements of glamour, but still stay within your budget! With  Here's a glimpse at some pieces available this season:

1. Multi-color dress, 2. Color block skirt, 3. Silk dress , 4. Wrap dress,
5.Silk blouse, 6. Trousers, 7. Asymetric top, 8. Shift dress.

P.S. Happy November!

Add Interest to the Fall Chill with Jackets

This weekend we experienced the first snowfall here on the east coast (OcSNOWber!) and it got everyone thinking about cold weather clothes. For me, one of the best parts of fall is that I get to wear layers! Over the past few years, I have been dubbed the "layering queen" by friends and family. Most of my base layers are the same basic colors. The more a piece of clothing is exposed, the most interest it can add to an outfit. Whether its an eye-catching pattern or a rich texture, the outermost layer is where you can spice it up!

Jackets: Velvet, Fringe, Feather print, Bird print, Plaid.

It's the Idea that Counts

Let's say you are in the market for a headboard. What do you in envision? My guess is it's very palpable, but it doesn't have to be! It can be fun (and even cheaper) to challenge yourself, and look at things in unconentional ways. What are headboards for, in a design sense? Unless you have back problems, wall art can serve the same purpose. It adds beauty and visual interest to a space, and show off who are really are— a unique, creative soul who likes to have fun with design! A few wall art pics:

Wall art: headboard, window, chandelier.

Monday Motivation: Mix it up!

The best way to combat Monday Blues: add color! Bold prints are to be embraced in all their forms this fall, from tried-and-true plaid (top right corner), to a new take on animal print (bottom left corner). When your mood is down and you need to uplift your spirits, dress the part! If you read this post to late, after you've already dressed yourself and left the house, use it to look forward to next Monday.
Have a great week!

Find 'em here: 1. Spaghetti-strap dress   2. Maxi dress  3. Earth tone dress   4. Crossover blouse
5. Zig-zag shoe   6. Missoni trousers  7. Animal-print ombre dress   8. Shades of brown pants
9. Tribal print coat   10. Maxi skirt.

Weekly Motivation: There's No Time Like the Present

via DesignSponge

Sometimes the best way to motivate yourself is to take it slow. Paying attention to a task along the way to its completion can be just as fulfilling as the product itself. One of the best cases is DIY projects. What is more satisfying than the knowledge that you can make anything more beautiful and meaningful with your own hands? Below are some steps on creating inspiring 'florals' from fallen leaves. The rest is over at DesignSponge.

The full step-by-step process.

Design Profile

When you think of Scandinavian design the first thing that comes to mind is Ikea, but there are hundreds of other companies out there— Bolia, for example. The designs are always clean, cool and sophisticated. Their aesthetic is so edgy and yet functional. Bolia makes you feel like you could host a dinner party, even in the simplest of rooms. Photos from the 2012 catalogue:

Midweek Mood Board: Earth Tones for Leather and Knits

This week's mood board is dedicated to the best aspect of fall weather: making us want to get comfy. What better way to embrace the current season than creating the simplest fall palette? Earth tones represent quite a few autumn elements like durability, protection and rich warmth. You can usher in the season with neutral earth tones from the board below:












Find them here: First row- Infinity scarf, Legwarmers, Knit sweater, Portfolio clutch,
Second row- Leather trousers, Worn-in boots, High-waisted shorts, Cardigan.

Etsy + A Nod to the Past

Etsy is a creative site full of vintage and hand-made items. The sellers always have unique aesthetics and you can be sure every product you purchase is special. Etsy is for the consumer off the beaten track looking for things that will set them apart, from  quirky accesories to inricately made items for the home. Of all the categories etsy offers, today I'll showcase a few vintage pieces that people are always on the hunt for.

Find them here: 1.Pocket watch, 2.Mason jar, 3.Camera, 4.Suitcase, and 5. Dresser.

Monday Motivation: Embrace Nature Year Round

With fall weather approaching, it is only natural to escape the cold and seek solace indoors. I can appreciate the change in the landscape during the fall/winter seasons, but I will miss the life and color I see during the warmer months. One solution is to bring the outside in with beautiful plants you can enjoy year-round. Now there are creative ways to display them and give your home a unique organic feel, even when the landscape outside your window is lacking.

Sources: 1. Tropical bathroom, 2.Vine leg table, 3.Organic Entryway, 4.Living wall art.

Midweek Moodboard: Animal Textures Continued

I have become quite fond of clothing inspired by animal print/fur this season. I want to note that I do have a love and respect for animals, but I've noticed that their fur/skin looks fierce on me as well (just do everything in moderation and embrace faux options). Last week's moodboard focused on trendy items, but this week is inspired by the autumn season. Trends are fun, but functional items that look amazing are a win-win. Fur is prominent this season in all its forms, and cozy West Coast 1970's influences are popping up in quite a few editorials. In short, warm animal textures are all over right now, including below:

You can find these items here: 1.Aplaca-blend sweater, 2.Fur and suede boot, 3.Faux-fur jacket, 4.Two-tone jacket, 5.Shearling vest.

Fall Spotlight

Alice + Olivia always delivers fresh and fun ready-to-wear items.There's a perfect mix of clean contemporary lines with rich colors and dramatic textures. Each season the collections become more and more refined, in my opinion. This fall collection is my favorite by far, mostly due to the historical fashion references in every piece. There are elements from the 1950's, 60's and 70's, and quite a few nods to Audrey Hepburn. The pics below are fitting as today is the 50th anniversary of the classic film Breakfast At Tiffany's. Here's a quick glance via Shopbop:

Monday Motivation: Organization



via Bolaget

Start the week right by creating an inspiring, uncluttered space for yourself. Take it one week at a time. The more you see your life planned out in front of you, the more willing you will be to go forward and take control. So make life easier on yourself, and keep a positive outlook for the days to come. Have a great week!

TECHniqe Profile: Ombre

Ombre is the process of dyeing fabric to create a gradated color pattern. The pattern can range from light to dark, or begin with one color and progress to another. In layman's terms, it's basically a really controlled tie-dyeing technique (but you can't repeat that simplified statement to anyone who takes design seriously; tie-dye is...just bad). Ombre has developed a larger following over the last few years and can be seen on celebrities, in high-fashion and even on this season's Project Runway (season 9). Ombre is usually pretty expensive because of the amount of skill one needs to perfect the technique, but cheaper methods have been used -like spray paint- and the price will instantly give it away. A few items available this fall: 1.Alexander Wang clutch 2.Juicy Couture scarf 3. Herve Leger bandage skirt 4.BB Dakota coat 5.Modcloth dress.

For all you visual learners out there, here's a basic, step-by-step video: Ombre Fabric Dyeing Technique.

Midweek Mood Board: Fur, Feathers and Scales

The most intriguing design inspiration this fall: beautiful animal print. It's popping up everywhere from coats to accessories. Nowadays it's not necessary to pay up for the real deal- faux fur is just fine. Here are a few swatches to get you inspired, and samples from Fall 2011 lines:

Three items to consider if you love this trend: 1.Peacock print dress 2.Max and Chloe leopard print cuff, and 3.Jefferey Campbell snakeskin heel.

Ikat: From Fabric to Tile

I always appreciate when artists have the imagination to transfer ideas from one medium to another. At New Raven Mosaics, designers took the visually interesting Ikat textile to vertical limits, creating vibrant, dynamic wall tiles. No matter how small or boring a space, this design element will definitely bring exciting energy to any room.

via Apartment Therapy

Monday Motivation: Keep It Light

I love chandeliers. Not only because they're pretty to look at, but their positive elements seem to transfer from the object to the viewer. How could one not be inspired by light, elegance and intricate creativity? Chandeliers don't have to be old and stuffy- they come in all shapes and sizes. Here's a few of my favorites to start your week off on a positive note:

From top to bottom: 1.table chandelier  2.mason jars 3.mini 4.color  5.industrial

Midweek Mood Board: Cocktail Attire

All this talk about New York Fashion Week's got me in the mood to party and socialize. But as a Stylista, we all know you have to take this tradition and make it your own. Besides, the whole idea of cocktail parties is to take things to the next level while still keeping it classy. Here's my take on cocktail apparel:

Dresses from Asos: Contrast, Bandeau, One-shoulder

Affordable Cocktail Rings from Fantasy Jewelry Box: Citrus Orange, Contemporary, Octopus

Unique Clutches from Modcloth: Black, Beige, Tan

Shoes from Shopbop: Glitter Pump, Taffeta, Platform