by lauraadmin | Dec 13, 2016 | NOC
We are about two weeks past the banal remarks of “can you believe the holidays are right around the corner?” and all its variations. At this point, the corner is turned. Since it is EXACTLY 12 days from Christmas (and 11 from Hanukkah), I decided to put together a list of 12 gifts that are fun and unique, but universal at the same time.
The best gifts are thoughtful, beautiful and practical (in that order). With the abundance of holiday party invitations, gifting alcohol is always an appropriate gift. Below, are some of my favorite host/hostess gifts.
The first three, are gifts that I have given many times and are among my favorite; the fur wine collar is my absolute favorite. The collar and wine bag are under $10 and the wine purse is around $15.
The stemware reminds me of fizzy champagne bubbles swirling around the bottom of the glass. These glasses come in a set of four and are on sale for $45.
I love, love, love the whiskey rocks. For your “neat” friends, this is a great gift.
The jigger is as fun to say as it is to give. The one below is really elegant looking, and while the first three items on my list are decidedly feminine, this gift is more gender neutral.
Wine Collar, Wine Bag, Wine Purse, Stemware, Whiskey Rocks, Jigger
For those in need of a gift for a travel-loving friend or coworker, below are some great options. The passport holder is beautiful, shiny and easy to find in one’s travel bag. The luggage scale is a brilliant and practical gift! I can attest to the nightmare of shuffling belongings from one bag to another because my luggage is too heavy. After completely ransacking one’s luggage, another travel nightmare is getting to one’s destination and having to wait for a taxi in the rain. This poncho is super cute with its leopard print lining and folds up very compactly when done. The poncho style provides stylish, hands free rain protection. These two gifts are the ones you didn’t think you needed, but are immensely happy to have when you do. The last gift is for the traveler who likes to start his or her vacation the moment he or she sits on the plane. The Airplane Cocktail Kit is everything you need to fix a Moscow Mule with all of its ingredients being 3 ounces or less. Traveling with kids? No problem, pack two 😉
Passport Holder, Luggage Scale, Convertible Poncho, Airplane Cocktail Kit
The criteria of thoughtful, beautiful and practical is of utmost importance when choosing teacher gifts. These saints do things that most of us do not have the patience nor energy to do, day after day after day. The key is attaching a sincere and heartfelt message along with your gift. Gift cards are always appreciated, yet they are the least memorable. Why not pair it with something thematic that conveys your appreciation. Organization is paramount in this profession. A beautiful planner is a nice touch alongside a gift card (maybe to The Container Store). A cozy hat and scarf set with a note that reads “Looking to give back to you some of the warmth you share with our children all year round” might be a nice sentiment. Caffeine is usually the fuel of choice for most teachers. This striped travel mug filled with chocolate and a Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts gift card would be nice. A note that reads “Wishing you a ‘latte’ of joy and love this holiday season” would be cute.
planner, Knit Hat and Scarf Set, Travel Mug
A big gold star to those of you that noticed that there are 13 gifts listed here. Because there is ALWAYS someone (mailman, garbage man, dog groomer, stylist) that we forget to get a gift for, buying an extra gift is always a good idea.
I hope this was helpful in giving you some fun and unique options for gifts this year.
Wishing you a wonderful, happy, healthy holiday season. Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah to all those who celebrate!
xo
Laurie
by lauraadmin | Dec 5, 2016 | NOC
Every few years a major paradigm shift occurs in design; 2017 will be one of those years. There are so many factors that foster these shifts. See my post here from the beginning of the year where I delve into some of these reasons. For the past few years design has favored a neutral palette, organic elements and open concept living. A cleaner more minimalist style has been the trend. Less will still be more in 2017; I don’t think we will ever go back to the “let me cover/fill every surface in my home” again. However, 2017 will bring new materials, richer colors and a more personal approach to designing one’s home.
What WILL be OVER are:
Moroccan Prints:
This print has had a pretty good run. This pattern was able to cross style boundaries popping up in traditional, modern and everything in between. I love this print, it is a soft geometric that lends itself to many applications. The problem is that it was WAY TOO OVERDONE! We now have Moroccan print fatigue. I can’t bear to use this fabric anymore.
If you are not ready to let this pattern go, try an ikat version of this print for a more updated look.
Image via Etsy
Chevron:
This pattern dating back to the 60’s re-emerged in the more modern realm of design a few years ago. It has since crept into every sect of the design world. The traditional version of this pattern will be zigzagging itself out of decor next year. Like its Moroccan print soul-sister, it too has been over used.
If you REALLY love Chevron, below is an updated version that looks more current.
The new Chevron -Image via Residents Understood
If you have either of these prints in your home, I wouldn’t toss them. However, I would not recommend purchasing anything new (especially upholstered or custom pieces) in these prints.
We are going to see a lot more new textures than new patterns in the upcoming year. Some other trends that will be HUGE in 2017 are:
- Marble
Beside the obvious marble counter top, marble is now popping up in decor elements and decorative object and lamps.
marble tray (20%off use code MERRY), Lamp, Bookends
2. Cork
This organic material will be HUGE for 2017! Everything from entire cork walls, to cork flooring.
Cork Wallpaper, Drum Lighting,
3. Jewel Tones
Cream, blush and gray monopolized much of 2016. 2017 will make way for deeper richer colors such as amethyst and sapphire. However, I think emerald-green will be the star in the new year. I predict there will be rich colors done in rich textures such as velvet, tweed and linen. If these rich tones make you nervous, try starting with one richly colored piece while keeping everything else more neutral.
I am loving this emerald-green sofa from Anthropologie.
sofa, arched headboard, dining chair
4. Nailheads
I love this metal detail! It elevates everything it adorns, making ordinary pieces look special. EVERYTHING looks better with nailheads…..no exceptions!!!
This side table from Better Homes and Garden is a major steal!
side table, Chest, mirror
I am looking forward to what the new year will bring. In future posts, I will discuss some of the other major design movements and trends that are emerging. Let me know what topics you would like to hear more about, or post any feedback on this topic.
XO
Laurie
by lauraadmin | Jun 5, 2016 | NOC
Since going to Paris last year, I am obsessed with the Parisian concept of the capsule wardrobe (read about it here). Parisians believe in buying the best you can afford, but only buying what you need. When I was in Paris I saw very simple (yet very chic) clothing that was well made and fit beautifully. Don’t get me wrong, Parisian women love to dress on trend; however, they are not slaves to trends and would never be caught dead following more than a few trends each season. A Parisian acquaintance of mine revealed that women in Paris view simplicity and minimalism as “tres Chic”. Conversely, Americans believe that luxury is acquiring as much as we possibly can. I admit, I fell prey to this way of thinking as well. My shoes were crammed on my shelves, I could barely fit one more hanger in my closet and I could go at least two months without repeating an outfit. This past year I have done a complete 180. I finally realized that true luxury is in owning a few beautifully crafted items that are current with timeless appeal.
As seen in my post on the home-fashion connection (read here), Parisians feel the same about their homes as they do about fashion. The key is selecting and showcasing pieces in a refined and restrained way . Their minimalist mentality regarding their home results in a home that is equally as chic as their outfits. In a typical Parisian home you will find a few well made pieces of furniture, gorgeous fabrics and a few chic, well placed accessories or art. As with my wardrobe, I have also seen the value of fiercely editing my home.
Below is a REAL Parisian apartment that my husband and I will be renting when we go back to Paris this Summer. Although it is not professionally designed, it illustrates the chic, minimal and well edited design philosophy of Parisians.
So, with this concept in mind why did I title this post “5 Things To Buy In Multiples”? Because, while there is beauty and freedom in a well edited home, there is also a need for functionality. Spending time enjoying the company of our friends and loved ones is the truest extravagance. Therefore, there are things that help one in creating a beautiful environment, thus enhancing those special moments. My short list of items will undoubtedly make life more pleasurable and functional when entertaining those we love.
Here is my list:
- Stools/Ottomans: I love any item that has multiple uses. Stools and ottomans are as beautiful as they are functional. They can be used as seating or a landing place for a cocktail or small plate. They are easy to store away when not in use, or artfully arranged to form a chic conversation area.
Here are a few that I love:
Serena and Lily Moroccan Pouf
Pottery Barn Vince Stool, West Elm Cross Based Ottoman, Christopher Knight Rosalynn Ottoman, Serena & Lily Moroccan Pouf
2. Picture frames: Unless it is a showstopping piece, groupings always look better than a singular piece of art. Therefore, using the same (or similar) frames creates a stylish and unified look. Read my post here on how to hang art. The frames below are the ones I use most frequently for my clients. These frames are well priced, have professional quality mattes and are easy to hang.
Here are some of my favorites:
West Elm Mirrored Frames, WS Home Gold Metal Frames, Pottery Barn Black Wood Gallery Frames
3. Throw pillows: Surprise, surprise 🙂 There is no faster, easier and least expensive way to update one’s home than with throw pillows. The key is variation. Choose at least three pillows of various sizes, textures and patterns for your grouping. This is the perfect time to update your home with fun, bright accent pillows.
Here are some that I am loving right now:
Z Gallerie Modena Pillow, Coco Cozy embroidered pillow, Lulu & Georgia Melia Pillow
4. Lanterns: Lanterns are such a fun way to make a statement. They can be grouped together to create a dramatic centerpiece or scattered around to create mood lighting. My favorite way to use lanterns is to place them along the edge of either indoor or outdoor stairs to illuminate the stairs in a dramatic fashion.
Here are a few of my favorites:
Pottery Barn Malta Lantern, Wayfair Iron Lantern, Pier 1 Bay Harbor Lantern
5. Throw blanket: Throw blankets add a well placed pop of color and pattern. The flat weave throws also make perfect table covers. I love to drape it in the center of the table and let the ends of the table show.
Here are a few gorgeous throws:
Jonathan Adler Greek Key Throw, Serena & Lily Brahms Mount Throw, Dot & Bo Lattice Throw
I hope this post helps you to reevaluate the way you think about decorating your home. I truly believe that design is an art and one’s home is the canvas. Challenge yourself to start editing out the things in your home that no longer serve you.
As William Morris stated:
Have nothing in your house
that you do not know to be useful,
or believe to be beautiful.
XO
Laurie
by lauraadmin | May 7, 2016 | NOC
My absolute favorite quote on Motherhood is by Elizabeth Stone. She writes, “Making the decision to have a child – it’s momentous. It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking outside of your body”. It wasn’t until I became a Mother that I truly realized how both powerful and powerless I am. The depths and range of emotions that one feels after becoming a Mother is immeasurable. It heightens all senses to superpower levels. We see, taste and feel things more than ever before. We develop eyes in the back of our heads, for God’s sake!!
Although Motherhood doesn’t define us, it is undeniable that it becomes a part of ourselves that resides so deep that it can never cease to exist and which all acts of love flow from. Mother’s Day is a day to honor and celebrate that part of ourselves, as well as the women in our lives that helped shape us as Mothers.
Here are a few great gifts for Mom to show her how much you love her and to add a little style to her life 🙂
Jo Malone Room Diffuser, Rosanna porcelain and gold mug, Kate Spade jewelry box
Kate Spade throw, Hampton Street vase, One In a Million necklace
Wishing all Moms a chic and Happy Mother’s Day!
XO
Laurie
by lauraadmin | Mar 23, 2016 | NOC
It is usually the small things in the right places that give one that extra touch of style and chicness. It is the string of pearls, the diamond studs, the addition of truffle oil or champagne, that will take things from good to great. Every so often our home needs the same boost.
There are really only a handful of items that can immediately up the chic factor of any space. When a small but impactful update is in order, these three items will be all you need!
A BAR CART
Veanne Bar Cart, Misha Bar Cart, Jacques Bar Cart, Vince Bar Cart, Gerard Bar Cart
Check out this chic outdoor bar cart
Horchow Tamsin Chinoiserie Bar Cart $795
This bar cart is my favorite; it is stocked, styled and ready to go!
Image Via Elle Decor -Nicole Gibbons
CHIC LIGHTING
People usually think to add unique lighting in the kitchen. However, I feel that pendant lights and chandeliers make an even bigger impact in more unexpected areas like the living room or hallway. Here are a few that have major style.
Roxbury Pendant, Crystal Drop Pendant, Lucia Semi Flush Mount, Olive Leaf Pendant
Image via Coastal Style
Don’t have an electrician on speed dial? Here are some table lamps that will also do the trick.
Lamps I Love:
Madison Crystal Lamp, Ripley Geometric Lamp, Diamond Omega Table Lamp, Alexis Lamp, Loring Table Lamp
STATEMENT MIRRORS
I love the use of mirrors for so many reasons. They are the design equivalent of Houdini. They can give the illusion that a space is larger, ceilings are taller, rooms are brighter and make a space look as though there are more windows than there actually are. Without a doubt, mirrors are a designer’s best and most used tool.
Petal Mirror, Frederick Wall Mirror, Evie Geo Mirror, Cassia Mirror, Studded Mirror
My favorite:
Quatrefoil Mirror $347
These mirrors below not only make a statement, they serve to balance out a wall with a single window!
Image via Pinterest
Napoleon Hill said “If you can not do great things, then do small things in a great way”. I hope this post inspires you to the make small, impactful additions that will elevate and revitalize your home.
Thanks for reading!
XO Laurie
