Sarah York Presents!

Happy Monday, y'all!

2012-02-13T06:00:00.000-08:00

{I don't know where from, do you?}

Inspiration for a Monday. Don't we all need a little pick me up? I know I do. And, did you watch Downton Abbey last night? OMG... I can't wait for the recap from MFAMB. Worth the wait every time. Do you watch? Well, you should!

Le weekend

2012-02-12T20:01:00.000-08:00

This is basically what I did all weekend. Besides getting up to go to a watercolor workshop on Saturday, I basically was in a fetal position and trying to recover. Not so pretty....

I like this.

{via}

Gorgeous. I love this, I love this, I love this. My stylist dreams are fulfilled in this whole photo. I want to be a stylist and this is exactly how I would style in my dreams. Must learn from photos like this. Gorgeous, but why is it gorgeous?!

Ocean Beach SF

The weather is San Francisco has been amazing and not very wintery. More summer and spring-like. I'll take it, but am worried about what the summer will bring. In San Francisco, I'm thinking it will be fog, fog, fog. Ahh, well... This was an amazing weekend, but I'm excited for what the new week will bring. Hello!! Work and school... But guess what?! My dry brush was approved! Now to paint the final...

Brunch Please!

2012-02-10T12:38:00.000-08:00

{via}

Friday! At last. This is already the weekend for me as I had minor surgery yesterday and am at home recovering. Home on a friday. Lovely! This means, lounging about in bed eating mashed potatoes and ice cream. And hopefully I'll be feeling well enough for brunch in bed on Sunday! Brunch is the best. Does anyone not like brunch? And brunch in bed?! Exactly... Hope you all enjoy your weekend! Brunch in bed for everyone!

Love this.

2012-02-09T07:43:00.000-08:00

Oversize clutches. Certainly this look has been around for awhile, but I still love it and have yet to buy and wear this. Apparently now the thing to do is to take a large tote and fold it over and carry it like a clutch. Huh? To me this look says, "I have nothing better to do with my hands than show off this fancy purse and maybe some pretty bracelets". Not really a look for schlepping your lunch to work while carrying your coffee on the bus... Maybe that is one of the reasons why I love it.

Balenciaga! Amazing in any form.

Love this shade of blue. Although she does look as though she forgot her pants...

Leopard, what's not to love. Also, this bag looks like you might actually be able to fit your lunch and perhaps some other essentials. Practical!

Gorgeous. This just oozes "Italian" to me in all the right ways. That lace skirt with the cognac and the brown is perfect.

This color combo is also perfection. The belt is really what pulls everything together. Love her red nails, and also I think she might be holding another bag in her other hand! Perhaps that is the key for the working girl. Although you're still left with no hands for the bus... If you look this chic, let's be honest, are you even taking the bus? Probably no.

{images via Pinterest, here and here}

Inspiration Board of the day!

2012-02-02T04:30:00.000-08:00

{via}

I love seeing the bookcase of the day, so I thought I would try my version. Inspiration board of the day! Lovely.

In progress

2012-02-01T21:06:00.000-08:00

Textile by Full Swing Textiles- Painting by me.

So, here is my third attempt at my dry brush. I have to say this is my best so far, but sadly still not quite there... Almost. Fourth times the charm?

Currently Studying... Dry Brush

2012-01-25T23:44:00.000-08:00

via vogue.com

Have I mentioned that one of my resolutions for 2012 is finishing my portfolio and school? Giant undertaking, which while working full time in the textile industry may be crazy, but I am determined and I think I can do it. I just need to get through THE LIST. The list is everything we need to have in our portfolios (did I mention i go to this school?) in order to graduate. It is a long list with some projects that will be a doozy. The latest being the Dry Brush. What is that you might ask? Here you are:

This project is haaarrd. Not as easy to paint as it may seem. I will get there though, and will hopefully get there this weekend! Love the way it is being used in high fashion in the top photo. So retro, yet so chic. What do you think of it?

Things that I love...

2012-01-22T11:38:00.000-08:00

{via my Pinterest. I think..}

I love inspiration boards, collages, bulletin boards, collages... Whatever you call them, I love them. Love the temporal and haphazard way they are put together, and the organic nature of how they grow, and what is chosen to be added to them. Fascinating. I think it speaks to my indecisive nature. Things on there are not so important to be framed and hung on the wall, but something that strikes your fancy and you want to look at it, at least for now. Snapshots, drawings, postcards, invitations, mementos- all tell a story about the person who put it together and what they find inspiring and important. I have several inspiration boards/wall around the house, and of course the fridge in most peoples homes turn into a kind of inspiration board of sorts. I remember having one ever since I was a little girl and I've had one ever since. This isn't mine, but it is exactly the kind of jumble of things that I love to look at. Perhaps I like them so much because I am a bit nosy too?

Away we did not go, and happy 2012!

2012-01-19T08:12:00.000-08:00

So... We did not end up going on the gypsy-boho adventure over new years. To my great disappointment. Why, you might ask? Well, after days of phone calls and emails to the place to try to pay, they didn't return any of my calls or emails. Ugh. You would think with this economy, or with business in general, they would want the money? Anyway, New Years was spent at home, which was fun, just not what I had wanted. Isn't that always the case with New Years?

Now onto life in 2012! Yesterday, we started a 2 week cleanse of healthy eating, and lots of doing without delicious things. We've done them in the past, and while I always feel very virtuous, they are really not very fun. Afterward, and I would say during the second week though, you do feel really good and healthy, so there's that... I really wish I could just stay in bed during the cleanse though, or at least just in the house... Why can't today be cancelled?! Lovely idea...

Away we go...

2011-12-29T15:28:00.000-08:00

{California Campers}

This year for new years, we have decided to take a boho-northern california adventure, in the form of VW camping along the california coast!!! Most people think we are crazy when I tell them this is what we are doing. Mostly I hear about how cold it will be (oh, the cold!!). I think it sounds like a fun and unexpected adventure, and I am ready to start the year off with a bang. Or rather, a bit of a relaxing getaway...

This is my fantastical version of what I would wear on our hippie camping trip- in my dreams. Ikat, caftans, and jewelry, oh my! Jeans, sweaters, scarves and more scarves is probably what I will be wearing. And did I mention scarves? (The cold!)

{Stinson Beach}

2011 was certainly exciting and full, with a move to San Francisco and a new job. A job that I love by the way... I'm hoping 2012 will full of fun and adventure as well in completely different ways. Not a new job, but hopefully more blogging, designing and maybe finishing school! That is a definite goal for 2012. Now to make that happen, I better get back to work before I get my boho-glam-VW-venture on! Happy New Year!!

xox,

Sarah

Happy Birthday!

2011-12-14T07:36:00.000-08:00

Today is my husband Michael's birthday, so in honor of him....

decorations! So pretty, and simple (and look pretty easy to do)...

Gorgeous wedding of photographer (Max Wenger). Seriously amazing photos. When we have the money to do portraits of us just for fun, I want this guy to do it.

A party dress for me to wear! I'll be wearing something similar to this tonight. Champagne for everybody! Ha! Right...

Happy Birthday, my love!

Lately...

2011-12-01T19:40:00.001-08:00

Home sick with a cold today. Oh, winter... On a happier, prettier note that has nothing to do with that piece of info, we finally explored a bit of Marin a few weeks ago and it was gorgeous. I wanted to go back immediately. This is a view about 10 minutes from the Golden Gate bridge, so about 15 minutes from where we live. In the city. Unbelievable! We then stumbled upon this place...

Such a fun little inn/English pub in the middle of the country. We totally enjoyed the old-worldish atmosphere. Picture- low ceilings, leaded windows, walk in fireplaces, wooden beamed ceilings, large wooden tables, candles, etc. So cute! Loved it. And the ham sandwich and chips were delicious! Yum.

Low light=flattering. Blurriness also helps... :)

The day ended with a walk on Stinson beach (also amazing. If you are in the area, go.) and getting our our Christmas tree! Christmas in the city is pretty magical! Trees and lights and decorations everywhere, I love it!!

Union Square!

Word.

2011-11-15T08:25:00.000-08:00

This is how I feel about Mondays...

2011-10-16T22:49:00.000-07:00

{Harpers Bazaar}

I do not, however, look this good while feeling this way. That dress though, would help me feel immensely better. I think it's Christian Lacroix. And who couldn't feel good while wearing that? Indeed.

Going to the dark side...

2011-10-15T22:38:00.000-07:00

Lately, my tastes have been changing. In the past, I've mostly been drawn to white, white, white. Which a part of me always loves. When I see a Rachel Ashwell type interior- all white, airy, vintage china and painted antique armoires- I could happily move in today, and love it. At least a part of me could. The other part of me is drawn to color, boldness and pattern. I guess I am just design-bi-polar...

Kelly Wearstler, of course. That lamp and the wallpaper are perfection.

Again, the wallpaper (killing it!) and the lamp. Wow. The purses in the bottom photo? Undecided.

I love these chairs. Glossy black. I may have to make this happen in my own home. And notice the white walls. Maybe my Jekyll and Hyde styles can live happily together after all?

Gypset-boho-romantic-luxe. Perhaps that can be my style moniker...

Bar cart? Black walls? Brass lamp? Yes, please. All of it is amazing. And oh, so inspiring. I need to step up my game. Lately, I've been to tired to do much of anything besides working and sleeping. Trying to get used to a new city and job. It's already been 3 months, but I am still trying to adjust.

On another note, I've been trying a new way of eating (hate to say diet)- PALEO. Crazy, I know. And, I can't do the whole thing, I still need some cheese and chips for salsa and guacamole. Oh, and wine. But that's healthy. Just trying to eat more healthy in general. That's all. Oh, and chocolate. I mean, if you can't eat chocolate, what is the point. Am I right???

Recent happenings...

2011-09-30T00:01:00.000-07:00

The Giants have been playing and we have been watching. Oh yes...

Making new friends.

Painting the kitchen. Finally! Final pics to come! Trust me, it looks a million times better. Okay, maybe just better, but I now can live with it and be happy. Before this, it was painful to look at.

In fabric heaven at the Pacific Design Center in LA. Love!!

The view from the PDC. LA on a somewhat sunny, non-smoggy day fall day!

Summertime at the beach. In San Francisco-- Psych!

Sorry for the lack of posts, to those of you who read my blog! The move to San Francisco, new job, and trying to keep up with school has kept me more than busy. I'm hoping to get into a rhythm, so I will be able to post more often. I think I have said that before, but this time, it's for real! Stay tuned!

Long lost...

2011-09-02T18:14:00.000-07:00

Soo... The last few weeks have rushed by so quickly, I don't quite know what day it is. Oh yes, it's Friday, and Labor day weekend. Yay! How could I forget. I have been immersed in a world of textiles at my new job, but I love it. So much fun! However, this weekend, I will be repainting this hideous kitchen (mine):

BRIGHT yellow, with a faux finish. I'm not saying faux finishes are horrible across the board, but who faux finishes like this anymore? Anyway, the light fixture, the wall color- it's all wrong. I don't quite know what to do though. I can't even find a photo of what might be right. I'm thinking this light fixture though:

{Cost Plus}

As for the paint color (which will be the major improvement. This is a rental after all..), I'm not sure. There are light peaches, greens, whites, etc. It will happen and I will let you know. Here are some other inspiration photos that are just lovely...

I can't remember where each of these are from, but I love them all. Combined. Will be shooting for this as I work on the apartment this weekend. I'll be laboring for sure! Enjoy!

Color scheming... San Francisco Edition.

2011-08-11T11:07:00.000-07:00

So, I’m trying to decide on color scheme for the new apartment… Loving this peachy, pink color and think it may be perfect for our kitchen. I find choosing a paint color one of the most daunting design decisions for some reason. Maybe because you can’t see the final result until all the money, time, effort, etc. has already been put into it. Also, the light can greatly affect the final result, so you want to look at the paint color in the same light that it will eventually be in to get an accurate color. I was given the task at my soon-to-be-former job, of picking the paint colors for the entire office remodel, and I stressed about it for days. So many people to please, and we were on a time crunch so I had to get it right. The first time. Luckily for me, I chose wisely (miracle.) and everyone loves it.

Too pale? Not peach enough? Getting close.

Aha! There it is. Peachy, pale, pink perfection. I've posted this fabric before, and I love it. LOVE this color scheme. Perhaps charcoal in the entry that is currently burgundy? (And not a good burgundy/bordeaux, but a bad early 90's reddish color).

{via}

I guess the worst thing that could happen is you re-paint. Which in the scheme of things isn’t the worst thing that could happen, but being somewhat lazy, I don’t really want to have to do that. I could always go to my fallback color, white, but I’m thinking I need to break out of my shell (ha! Egg-shells are white! And brown, but you get it…) and go for it. What do you think of the colors?

Ch-ch-ch-changes…

2011-08-08T12:09:00.000-07:00

Hello out there. I have been rather busy as of late with all sorts of fun, personally and professionally. Summertime, ahh... Also, school is back in session, so that means homework is also back in session and my dining room has morphed back into my office. Below is what it looks like when I have cleaned up and don’t have papers, books, pots of paint, computer cords, color roughs, oh- and piles and piles of fabric scattered on the table, floor windowsill, etc.

All this is really here nor there. What I really should be talking about is that I'm moving! Rather, Michael and I are moving to the city! Wow. I just got a dream job at an Interior Design firm, to work in their textile department, and I could not be more thrilled. We’ll be moving by the end of the month, so it is definitely a whirlwind! We think we found a cute place, built in the 1920's, with charachter and charm, but it needs a bit of help, shall we say? I'll have to show you what I mean later... All sorts of changes are ahead, and I can’t wait to see what’s in store!

Once upon a time,

2011-07-21T14:13:00.000-07:00

When I saw images of Valentino’s Fall 2011 Couture show, I was mesmerized by the woodland, princess, fairy-tale prettiness of it all. Every look was exquisite. The styling of the makeup, hair, etc. was perfection. If I were going to make a modern fairy tale, the princess would definitely be sporting many looks from this collection. My favorite fairy-tale princess would look gorgeous in this number in particular. I’m sure the three fairies could whip up something like this? No?

I love the golden colors, the zigzags, the sleeves. All of it really. Wouldn't Nicole Kidman look amazing at the Oscars in this?

Tulle is the best. If I were going to pick a wedding dress today (and could afford Valentino-HA!) this would be it. Love, love, love!

Red, Valentino’s signature color. Candy apple red, Wicked Queen from Snow White’s signature color.

Sleeping Beauty goes to a cocktail party.

This is what she would wear when she sings to the woodland creatues and meets Prince Philip. Gorgeous, woodlandy, and appropriate for berry picking in this landscape. Wouldn't you agree?

{All via}

I think this last dress is my favorite, although it's a very tight race with the white tulle dress. And to finish up the Sleeping Beauty art direction, this is totally what she would wear in the end when she finally wakes up, and dances with Prince Philip into the clouds. Golden, shimmery. I think I'll dream of this dress, once upon a dream...

O, Valentino. Although no longer designed by the actual Valentino, the line is now designed by Pier Paolo Piccioli and Maria Grazia Chiuri. I think they’ll design happily ever after.

The End.

Color theming...

2011-07-19T15:15:00.000-07:00

Lately, looking through the images I've collected from around the web, I have been drawn to greens of every shade and hue. Color theming, if you will...

{vintage gouache painting}

This pattern is so cute and modern, yet was painted years ago! Just goes to show that good design holds up over time. I also feel compelled to like all gouche paintings, as that is what I do for textile design, so it is inspirational on the days when the painting doesn't go right, and ends up all blotchy and ugly. Also, this is really just one color and looks amazing. Skills.

{Domino}

I know, everyone has seen this photo a million times, but I remember seeing this kitchen in Domino for the first time, and thought it was adorable. And the color combo is great. Chartruese and emerald?! Who cares if you have a big kitchen, if you have an adorable little kitchen like this? I would take this over granite and stainless steel any day.

{From Russian Bon Appetit}

Who wouldn't want a little Russian country house that looked like this? Bohemian perfection. I think green houses with white trim is way under utilized. Bring it back homeowners!

{via}

I've had a soft spot for green velvet, ever since I saw Scarlett O'Hara rip the curtains down at Tara to make her dress (and seriously, if I could sew like Mammy to make that dress, oh how happy I would be. SKILLS.). Overall, I would gladly take any element in this room, but the green velvet, tufted footstools really make me swoon.

{via}

The milkiness of the wall color provides such a neutral and soothing background to the room.

Again with the milky wall. Or is this an Anthro catalog? Either way, I'm buying whatever they're selling.

{via}

The color of the chair is gorgeous. So rich and peacocky. I want to go curl up in it right now. And now that I think about it, I should'nt be so suprised that I'm on a green kick. Remember these shoes? Still love them. Green is good!

I like this...

2011-07-14T11:18:00.000-07:00

{via}

Pulling it off?

2011-07-13T13:25:00.000-07:00

{Shirt: Market, Skirt: J.Crew, Ring: handmade by me, Watch: Michal Kors, various bracelets}

So, this is my version of the outfit combo I posted yesterday. Pardon the quality, as it was taken with my only camera (my iphone), which is actually pretty good, but still not the best quality. Sadly a few months ago I forgot to screw the lid back onto my water bottle before putting it into my purse, so my camera was drenched and died. A sad death. For now, my iphone will have to suffice. Anyway... I think the outfit is almost working. It looks a bit better in real life, and I added a pink sweater which kind of ties everything together. It might need a necklace or something to break up the stripes. What do you think? Pulling it off?

Pretty things...

2011-07-12T16:44:00.000-07:00

For a little bit of cheer on this mundane afternoon, I present these pretty things for your consideration:

{via Rikshaw}

I am loving this skirt and stripe combination. I just bought a striped shirt over the weekend that I am in love with. I wore it two days in a row, which is rather unusual for me, but it is so soft and cozy and cute that I couldn’t resist. I kind of wish I was wearing it again right now… I think I’ll see if any of my floral skirts could make this look happen.

{via Pattern Observer}

Prada. The print on the skirt is gorgeous. I die. Literally. Okay, only figuratively, but it still is a great pattern. I wonder how Prada comes up with their textile designs? Now that I’m in school, every time I see a great design I wonder about the design process behind it. Who designed it? Was it painted, drawn, computer generated? What other color combinations did they try? Was it designed specifically for that purpose or just as a fabric and then chosen to be on the final product? Mostly these go unanswered, but when I find a textile designer willing to share their secrets, I'm all ears! Some good sources for design information:

Freshly chopped

Trail of Inspiration

Kelly Wearstler

Pattern Observer

Pattern People

All the links can be found to the right...Anything I should add?

Happy Weekend!

2011-07-09T11:22:00.000-07:00

{via MFAMB}

Hello and happy weekend! Why are shorter weeks so darn long? Thankfully, it's the weekend yet again, and although it isn't three days long this time, it is still Saturday morning, and the weekend is ahead. This weekend I will be elbow deep in paint pots, tracing paper and color roughs (and hopefully flowers?!). So glamourous. Hope you have a lovely weekend!

Goodwill Hunting

2011-07-06T14:21:00.000-07:00

I never used to like thrift stores very much. I didn’t not like them, I just didn’t really think of them. When I was young, however, I got one of my favorite dresses in the world from the Goodwill and wore it probably every day. I loved it. In the past few years I’ve rediscovered the thrift store and found many of my favorite items there. My couch, if you will remember, was purchased at the Goodwill. I go there on my lunch hour and just peruse the aisles, looking for little gems amid all the crap. And let me tell you what you already know, there is a ton of junk there. Today was one such occasion that I think I found a gem. Behold:

A peacock chair! I think you either love or hate these, and I happen to love it. A little wackadoo, but also fun and exciting. I think my house needs a little more fun and excitement. And if all else fails, it would look great in the backyard! Perhaps with a coat of paint?

{via Glamlamb}

Perfect! I love the saffron colored, round seat cushion. It adds such a warmth and livability to the chair. This is the direction I am imagining for my imaginary peacock chair. Which may or may not be finding a home with me. What to do? Let's discuss...

{via desire to inspire}

What's hiding out in the little ol' corner over there? A peacock chair, of course! Just providing a little California-casual-cool-funk to this room. Love it.

{via google images}

A normal person, doing normal things, looks so much more glamourous in a peacock chair. Wouldn't you agree?

{via}

Gorgeous. In my dream life, I would swan around all day (a bird reference! Get it?) in a gorgeous gown, having afternoon tea with my friends in my green-house, while sitting on a variety of pastel peacock chairs. Perfection.

{via Amber Interiors}

Super cute. That little elephant stool is helping.

In conclusion, peacock chairs are awesome! I may or may not have one in my future. We shall see...

In bed… And, The Jacobean!

2011-06-29T10:59:00.000-07:00

Happy hump day to all and to all a good night, oh, I mean, hello! I have had a cold the past few days (obviously still rather out of it...), and am finally coming back into the world of the living. Yesterday was spent trying to work from home, do homework, then collapsing on the couch. And, repeat. I’m not a very good functioning sick person, and prefer to rest and get better rather than power through, hopped up on cold medicine. I guess I have that luxury though, as I have a job I can call in sick to, and no kids. Ahh… Anyway, I thought I would share a taste of one of my recently completed school projects.

This “Jacobean” (a specific style of motifs, very traditional), is seriously one of the hardest projects we have to complete and takes SO much time. But it is so pretty, and the hand painting is actually rather fun after awhile. I was beyond excited to show this in class, and receive my “I’m just glad it’s finished” button. So true. Now, after basking in this accomplishment, it’s on to the next one…

Fanc-ikat! Get it??

2011-06-22T15:21:00.000-07:00

Oh, the things that amuse me… Those that know me, will laugh and at the same time groan over that one. Everyone else is probably groaning. Ikat (pronounced e-cot, I know…) seems to be everywhere in the design world these days, which is okay by me, as I love it. Currently, I am researching ikat for a school project, and I’m excited! I just bought this book which looks like a good resource, we’ll see… And I’ve just been looking at scores of fabrics. Mostly online, as I’m stuck at work, but will be ordering some to look and feel them in person as well. Any good resources for unique Ikats that I’m missing?

{via Etsy}

I love this dress. Fantastic. I feel like Miss Uzbekistan should wear this in the Miss Universe competition, and she should WIN!

I know this is a rug and technically not an ikat, but I thought the design and colors were pretty and could be adapted well to an ikat pattern.

{Madeline Weinrib}

Ms. Weinrib is the queen of ikats. Always gorgeous.

I can't remember where this is from, but it is amazing. One of my favorites.

Mustard ikat. Yum.

{Last 4 via Etsy}

Love them all! Which one to choose... I'll try to share the design process for this project as it might be interesting (Disclaimer:might be). It starts here at the inspiration point, next up, layouts!

Peony Perfection!

2011-06-21T11:43:00.000-07:00

Aren’t peonies the most beautiful flower? Big statement, I know. And one that I will probably make about another flower, next time I buy some. Fresh flowers are the best, and add so much life to a home. I feel happy every time I walk in the door and see these lovely flowers greeting me. Also, I scored at a local flower shop, and got them for $1.99 each! Plus, the guy threw in an extra one for free, which totally made my day. Great place for fresh flowers, but so little and hole-in-the-wall-ish I can’t even find them on Google maps! On Soquel Ave, at the end of 7^th. Always something different, but I always leave happy.

My nightstand with my free peony. Perfection!

Bloggers Block...

2011-06-20T13:42:00.000-07:00

If you post, they will come. Right? They being readers, and posting, being well, you get the idea… Since I haven’t posted for over 2 weeks, that would make for poor readership. Understood. If I want anyone to read my blog, there must be something to read. And, since I keep finding inspiring new blogs (Like this), with working mothers, who also find the time to blog, and have amazing style, then certainly I can do it too. At least I can try… Starting now! (And thanks to my husband, mom and sisters, and best friend who are my loyal readers. Although, I do send it to them, so…. Love you guys!)

Paris!

2011-06-06T10:16:00.000-07:00

Imagine my surprise and delight to come upon a contest to win a trip to Paris this morning. Paris! As is Paris, France!!! Oh Happy Day has a contest to win a trip for 2 to Paris! I can’t imagine how exciting it would be to win, and I think the odds are pretty good. At least better than the lotto! Plus, you can enter multiple ways, so there are even more chances! (Can you tell I’m excited, with all the exclamations!!!) Go enter! And if you need a person to bring as your date, remember the little birdie who gave you this tip…

Okay, Coral!

2011-06-02T14:39:00.000-07:00

I think coral is having a comeback. But, did it ever really go away? The color is so fresh and bright, and although perhaps a bit to overused by those of an elderly and tropical persuasion (thinking tacky, ugly, parts of Florida), I think it is timeless and wonderful. Pantone (almost) agrees, as it has decreed that Honeysuckle is the color of 2011. A bit pinker than my personal idea of coral, but in the same family. Like a younger sister to Coral. Anyway, that is neither here nor there. What I am trying to say is, coral is ok by me! And what I am really trying to say is, let’s just look at these pretty dresses and call it a day. Okay? Ok.

Current Inspiration... Memorial Day Weekend Edition!

2011-05-27T13:02:00.000-07:00

Some random, recent inspiration...

{via}

Dark walls. Swoon. After being a total white, on white, on white, fanatic this is a major change, but I do love it.

{via House Beautiful}

All these rugs, and the windows. Love it!

{via}

This Zara Kimono blouse is lovely. But, I don't think I've ever met a flowy, silky, flowery blouse I didn't like.

I love the idea of art in the kitchen. Why not? I think my kitchen needs some attention, urgently.

{via}

And, I can't resist bows.

Speaking of inspiration....

“The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be”

“write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year”

- Ralph Waldo Emerson

Depending on my mood, inspiring quotes either strike me with sincerity and meaning, or jaded, clichéd, and insincerity induced eye-rolling. I have these two quotes on Post-it’s at work, which most of the time, inspire. Most of the time.

This is one of those days that I feel inspired. Maybe it is the three day holiday weekend on the horizon? Either way, today is the best day in the year. And today, I’m inspired.

Happy Weekend!!

Style. Check!

2011-05-26T14:59:00.000-07:00

This was my attempt at the loaded bracelet/watch combo (ignore my hand looking like a dead fish. This self model+photographer thing is hard, especially on my iphone!). I must say, it’s heavier than it looks. Does it look heavy? It is. Style and an arm workout in one!

Fits of Fashion

2011-05-25T16:59:00.000-07:00

Do you ever get into those moods where theoretically you want to look cute, but don’t have the energy? I am in one of those fashion doldrums where my closet bores me and all I really want to wear are my pajamas- morning, noon and night. (It's just easier and no decision making is involved!)Since, I do not work from home, I think this is probably unacceptable (although, in my ultra-casual office, I have seen sweats on more than one occasion. You don’t even want to know what else…). So, I am trying to get inspired and these images are just about doing the trick.

J.Crew

J.Crew's styling, as has oft been said, is spot on every time. Love this blouse. The weird waxy shorts though, not sure about...

Jenny Packham

These dresses are sparkly, glittery and oh-so pretty. If I were a movie star and had to go to red carpet events, I would for sure be wearing one of these.

This purse with scarf bow (I love this detail! Is it over? I hope not!) is so adorable. Definitely easy to recreate, but I need a new purse. This shape is what I am looking for, but the price tag is probably not...

Mixing bracelets and watches... Noticed, and emulating. Check!

I think this is another J.Crew look, and again with the styling!! On their own each of these pieces is just okay, but together, great. I love the woven belt and mix of costume jewelry, unexpected color palette and overall insouciant attitude. Okay, I'm inspired! Now to see what I can do with my current wardrobe...

Currently loving...

2011-05-23T13:48:00.000-07:00

Oh, Mondays…. The weekend was a whirlwind for the York house! Full of driving to Berkeley, Oakland, San Francisco, and plenty of homework thrown in for good measure. But, it was my last Sunday class at school. Hooray! I finally will have some of my weekend back again. To do homework! Psyche! Ah well, I am feeling good and getting stuff done. More projects are coming together and moving forward, which is always exciting. So, on this Monday, some things I am currently loving…

{Ebay}

I am in love with these pillows made from antique Persian rugs. So unique and colorful! I want a whole couch full of them. With my couch, I think it could either be over-the top-amazing, or maybe just over the top. Undecided...

{google images}

Okay, so this image of an elephant I am not exactly loving, except that it reminds me of the border skirt design that I am currently working on for school. After many weeks of banality, last night I think I might have had a breakthrough with the layout. I am hoping to get it approved tonight! Fingers crossed.

{By Suzanne Kesler via}

This desk is awesome. Michael and I were just talking about getting a drafting table for me to work on, and this is just the one I would want. Not too big and bulky, in a gorgeous chesnutty color. Yes, please! Now to find it in real life at a reasonable price. Can it be done?

{via}

Lovely. Tile done right. And the brass fixtures? Charming perfection!

{via}

India. High, if not at the top of my travel list. I cannot wait to go here and experience all of it. Currently, I am reading Shantaram, which takes place there, and is fueling my desire to go (despite the gritty things that go on in the book, which is super good, by the way). Must make this happen. Soon!

Not sure where this is, but does it matter? I would go in an instant. I am guessing Europe or South America, and either way, I'm ready. Love!

Ombre, Hombre.

2011-05-13T13:05:00.000-07:00

The other day I was lying in bed looking at my white cotton curtains from Ikea, and started thinking that they look a bit-- “meh”. The creamy white curtains were blending into the creamy white walls, and it was all looking very blah. I think a bit of pizazz and perking up is in order! Since I do not have a lot of money to re-decorate whenever the fancy strikes me (which would be about everytime I see something new and cool), I was thinking ombre curtains would be relatively easy and very, very cool.

{Via Anthropologie}

Hello, Anthro. You always have the perfect (yet overly priced, therefore usually out of my price range) item that I need. Think romantic, modern, bohemian bungalow chic= my current style. Now if I can just convince my hombre that he will love ombre curtains…

Currently loving...

2011-05-06T10:17:00.000-07:00

{via ALDO}

I am LOVING these shoes right now. Am i crazy? They have a 4" heel which is a bit high, but I the patterns and textures are in.sane. Sold out in my size. Al-Doh!

Feelin' It!

2011-05-05T12:12:00.000-07:00

My best friend had a semi-boyfriend many years ago who, while writing in email, always shortened words ending in “ing” to “in” as in lookin’, goin’, feelin’. This has randomly been ingrained in my psyche, and whenever I write the word “feeling”, I instinctively want to change it to feelin’. That is neither here nor there, but I just thought I’d share (ha!). Okay, then…. School has been BANANAS this spring and I just got back from a trip to Korea to visit my sister, so there hasn’t been much time to blog. But, I’m back in action and ready to party. Er, well, back to work is more like it… Happy May everyone!

{via Coco & Kelley}

Love the pattern, colors, textures. Reminds me of India for some reason, which i am obsessed with lately. Must get myself there. ASAP!

{Celerie Kemble's office via Style Files}

Coral! And the chevron rug strikeoff is to-die-for. Must remember this color palette to use in a design. Is chevron really ever out of style? I think, no.

{via http://keepfeeling.wordpress.com/}

Read about this modern dancer from the early 20th century who became famous for dancing an entire show called "Radha" about the Hindu god Vishnu. Her outfits (and audacity for the time!) are fearless. This photo is especially gorgeous.

{via Kelly Wearstler's blog}

On Kelly's blog, this is an action photo! And the hat. Kooky and crazy, but on Kelly, I love it.

The color combination is delightful. This wallpaper makes me so happy.

{via google images}

Inspiration for one of my designs. Elephant print, knock-off. It is a challenge, but I'm hoping it turns out cool rather than kitcsh.

{via Tucker}

If I could have the whole line of Tucker every season, I would be a happy girl! The cutest prints on silk, and The Blouse is the perfect top that looks chic and goes with everything. I love this print especially! If i were to design a line of clothing, I would love it to be like Tucker.

{via Tumblr}

Ruffle detailing makes me swoon!

Obsessive Compulsive=Win!

2011-03-10T14:37:00.000-08:00

Lately, I have been drawn to obsessively organized vignettes of things, colors, objects, etc. (Remember this?) I think everyone is innately drawn to order, in a way. Of course, I also am a big fan of fun, disorderly and imperfect. I am so indecisive and like so many different things, I just can’t make up my mind! Today, I became fascinated with this website and couldn’t stop looking…

I love the color arrangements, the way the objects are arranged and the arrangement and order in and of itself. Also, some of the collections are so quirky. This makes me super sad my camera drowned, and now all I have to work with is the iphone… I know, so sad. I tried to experiment with my own version of “things arranged neatly” at my desk (granted, my desk at work is far from the most inspirational or photogenic place. Gray cloth cube, with ashy laminate desktop, bad lighting…) and it was not looking great. You can submit your own on the site! Perhaps I will try this again later with better lighting and props. For now, I will just keep obsessing over these lovely arrangements.

{All via}

A new couch cometh!

2011-03-04T08:28:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday everyone! This has really been a long week, which I feel that way every week, so I guess it has just been a week... Anyway, exciting news! We got a new couch! There comes a time in one's life when they look around their house and see too many items from Ikea lingering about. Items that were purchased to make do, until another more interesting and lasting piece could be purchased. Don't get me wrong, I love Ikea. I just don't want my house looking like the Ikea catalog. The first thing on my list was our couch. We have gone from this:

{Ikea Ektorp Sofa}

to this:

See our sad old sofa in the background? It just looks tired... The new one looks jaunty!

Improvement, no? The shape of the sofa is great, and I actually kind of like the crazy/funny print. Someday, we will get it re-upholstered in perhaps a really soft grey velvet or a fun Quadrille print, or Windsor Smith... Oh, the possibilities! The point is, it will be recovered someday, but for now, I like it just the way it is. Now, what to do about our Ikea coffee table?

Current Inspiration… March!

2011-03-02T11:28:00.000-08:00

No time to do a proper post, but one on the way, which is the tale of two sofas (but more on that later)… Also, one involving pirates... For now, current inspiration! We like these posts right?! Right.

{via Lonny}

Love the colored mats in the frames and the cheerful mix of patterns, colors and textures.

{via The Sartorialist- found on Secrets of a Stylist Blog}

This color combination is awesome. Mustardy, gold is becoming my favorite color and I love that it is popping up in more places. Pairing it with this turquise blue seems like the perfect combination. Also, love these shoes. Am I crazy?

{via The Sartorialist- Found on Secrets of a Stylist Blog}

Again, Such a great mix of colors. I love this coat, even just seeing it from the back. I wonder what the front looks like? I am guessing, awesome.

{Miles Redd}

Pattern, color, ikat chairs! I love it all. Miles Redd is genius!

I saw someone paint this pattern of wallpaper on their walls, and it actually came out amazingly. I wish I could do this in our rental...

{Anthropologie}

These last three images just make me happy and inspired. Now, onward... March! (Ha!)

Current Inspiration... February!

2011-02-10T10:28:00.000-08:00

Whew, the past month has flown by, and I have been unable to even post pictures on le blog, let alone say anything. I have been too scattered to think lately and find I can only look at pretty things and can’t really process my feelings into words, hence, lack of blog posts. I am going to start out slowly and try to at least post the inspiring images that I come across as a record. Behold, my current inspiration…

Spoons! Pretty, pretty spoons! Is this what happens when you collect touristy spoons wherever you go? If so, maybe I should get on that...

{from Anthropologie} This bedding is divine. Also, the car and the whole idea that the image evokes is great. Makes me want to take off on an impromptu roadtrip and eat smores and look at the stars. In Europe, preferably.

I like Paris in the... Winter.

Is that a rubber tree going crazy in the back there? Perhaps a wee bit too crazy and of room-overtaking proportions, but I have to say that I am intrigued.

Color-palooza. So much crazyness, but it all works so well together. Makes me want to be more adventurous and madcap in my own home. That painting really rocks.

{via the Neo-Traditionalist} The Alps in summer with colored dots makes me happy.

{looks like Anthropologie, but I am not sure} That floor! Also, the dress and the butterflies, and what is that little sailor person in the front of the shot? Who cares. Awesome.

Presenting...Current Inspiration!

2011-01-07T11:53:00.000-08:00

{J.Crew}
These colors are so pretty. I think a color palette for my pinata horses may be forming...

{Papersource}
Page markers! How cute are these?!

{via}
This pattern is really intruiging to me, and I have a new project for school that I need inspiration for. This is doing the trick!

{Lee Jofa via}
Gorgeous new fabric from Lee Jofa. Apparently watercolor fabric is a big trend for 2011, and that is okay with me! Love it! Also, perfect for my project!

{via}
Gorgeous colors and pattern. I think it's a rug, but it reminds me of a mosaic tile floor. Would be amazing if it were.

{via}

Have been wanting to do leapard print something for a school project for awhile. I just need to take the plunge and do it! Wish me luck!

Pinata Madness!

2011-01-05T15:16:00.000-08:00

{Confetti System for Opening Ceremony}

This morning, I was completely bowled over by Confetti System. I think I have seen some of their work before, but was too busy or something, because I didn't realize how cool it is! Their mad-cap, festive, amazing piñatas and decorations are to die-for. No horses or cartoon characters here, just good old fashioned shapes with rock star materials like leather, silk and of course, all things shiny! The piñata grows up! They even fill some of them with confetti, and they are meant to be broken. So inspiring to see their studio and hear about their work. Design interviews fascinate me, and I love to read about what people love to do and how they do it.

I also love their other decorative objects, and the installation curtains. How amazing would it be to have this wall in your house? Gold confetti wall?!! I don’t know that it would particularly “go” in my little cottage by the sea, but I definitely would not turn it down!

The other night at school, my teacher decided to turn my Swedish Dala horse design into a fiesta piñatas. I wasn't thrilled at first, but I am getting inspired... I think this is a sign to accept the piñata idea and run with it. Maybe with all these crazy colors of the Confetti System as my guide? Andale!

{Gold-curtain fabulousness}

{Creature Comforts Office and Showroom}

Presenting... 2011!

2010-12-31T22:40:00.000-08:00

{Love this photo... via This will be me tonight, or tomorrow... Ha!}

Happy New Year! I guess it really is true that time goes faster as you get older, because this year flew by. It was a busy year, what with getting married and all! Cheers to 2011! Hopefully it will be filled with excitement, love, laughter and adventure. Cheers to all, and to all a good night!

We need a little Christmas, right this very minute!

2010-12-23T09:58:00.000-08:00

Lisa Congdon

Christmas is only two days away and my brain has lost the ability to form complete sentences. While at work, I have started mumbling incoherently several times this morning, only to end up losing my train of thought completely and staring, blinking at the confused person I am talking to. Not quite… How do you say, professional? Is Christmas vacation here yet? I feel like I’m a 5 year old... All I can think of is bows and wrapping paper, and last minute presents to buy. Where are you Christmas?

{via Tumblr}

Presenting...The Final Countdown!

2010-12-20T16:32:00.000-08:00

{J.Crew}

The Christmas countdown has begun!! Only 3 more days of work and then… Christmas Eve! Christmas is coming, the goose is getting fat! Er, I mean I am eating far too many holiday goodies… Ah well, ‘tis the season for being warm and jolly. Right?! Last minute Christmas shopping tonight, gift-wrapping , and then I can relax and bask in the holidays. Perhaps with a hot toddy? Cheers!

PS. Isn't this photo the cutest? All merry and bright, in every sense! That wreath is amazing, and the door it's hanging on is not too shabby either... J.Crew, can you do no wrong? Love it!

Presenting... Under my Umbrella-ella-ella-a-a-a!

2010-12-14T10:21:00.000-08:00

{via}

{via Tumblr}

Would that I were this chic and cool when I was wrangling an umbrella. These ladies all look fabulous and not at all like a wet dog. Bravo ladies! I'm loving the rain we are getting in CA right now. Since I can't have a white Christmas, I'll take a wet Christmas instead! Maybe with some cute rainboots like this:

{via Piperlime}

And any of these umbrellas from umbrella.net. So cute and interesting! I love the handles that curve at the bottom instead of the cheapie ones with a stumpy little plastic handle. How sad would it be to lose one of these umbrellas though?

And this one is vintage! From the 50's! How cool.

{all via}

A day late and an alliteration short...

2010-12-14T09:28:00.000-08:00

This was supposed to be an alliterative post entitled “Wallpaper Wednesday”, but now it’s Thursday and I am still really enchanted by all these amazing wallpapers. Aren’t they gorgeous? If I could, I think I would have a whole house full of wallpapered rooms. Yes, it can go old fashioned and grandmothery if the wrong paper is chosen, but it also adds a lot of pizzazz to a room and gives it character very quickly. I am very much considering some re-moveable or fabric wallpaper in our bedroom. I might have to convince Michael of this, but I think it would be Bananas (Oh, Rachel Zoe. Are you done with your show, now that you are allegedly pregnant?). I die.

And the fabric on the bed! Amazing. Love the color and the vibrancy next to the traditional pattern of the wallpaper.

{Gemma Comas}

I love this whole set-up. Great style. I wish I had an entryway that I could have a table in. My front door pretty much opens into my living room. I have dreams of a future adorable little vestibule.

Similar looking to above, yet different. Not sure which one I like more. Maybe the one on the bottom. The top one looks like it could be DIY'ed. Maybe??

{Amanda Borg}

Could totally DIY this. If I had the time or patience...

{Amanda Borg}

{Lisa Fine's Apartment via Lonny}

I have spoken of my love for this wallpaper before, but I so love looking at it. I also have ideas for some wallpaper fashioned to look like this...

{Emily Henderson on HGTV's Design Star}

{SurfaceView via}

This is so hippie-dippy. I love it. Marbled paper in general is pretty awesome.

via Tumblr

Presenting... Apple bottom jeans, and the boots with the fur...

2010-12-08T16:51:00.000-08:00

For those of you who are keeping tabs, I am on a 70's kick. Really diggin' it. Hence, I love each of these ladies' outfts. For some reason they all look Italian, no?

The jacket too! Swoon! If only i could be that cool.

{all via all the pretty birds}

EmersonMade! Yes, please!

{via Emersonmade}

Presenting... Fashionable or questionable?

2010-12-03T16:18:00.000-08:00

{via}

Fancy sweats and heels. Are we feelin' it? I am torn. All that comfort, yet, still put together and stylish without being frumpy. This is a trend I could almost get behind. And yet, it could go to frumpy-town (see what I did there?!) very quickly. Questionable...

{not sure where these are from... Sorry!}

These outfits on the other hand, I can definitely get behind. Taylor Tomasi Hill is as fashion savvy as always. Very inspirational. The top photo I am not sure of who it is, but it is a very attainable outfit. Such simple style, but fabulous. Definitely fashionable. Happy weekend to all!

xo, Sarah

Presenting... Anthro-via-ebay!

2010-12-02T09:31:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the somewhat grainy and less than stellar images. I can’t quite figure out my digital camera, nor iphoto editing… Perhaps photoshop would have been better, but I am still figuring that out too. I am better at figuring out non-technological things. Like jigsaw puzzles and what to write in a thank you note. Also, our room is still a bit in progress, but what room isn't? Am I right?!

Anyway, the purpose of aforementioned photos is to show off the beautiful rug! I was kind of a mad person on the day it was being delivered. Obsessively checking for delivery updates, calling UPS when it had not been delivered by 6pm (really, UPS?!). Apparently, they have until 9pm to deliver. After 9pm, it still hadn’t arrived, but the delivery status was now “Delivered”. I was ready to go door to door asking who stole my rug, when my friend Ashley who had just left came back with the rug that she had seen on our neighbors porch. I was so excited, I immediately anti-bacterial Fabreezed it and put it in our room. And let me tell you… It looks fabulous. So soft, rich colors, gorgeous. I think Michael might still need some convincing, but I love it. Anthropologie-via-ebay, thank you!

{all photos by me. Let's be honest though, who is really going to take these?}

Presenting... The perfect everyday shoe!

2010-12-01T13:35:00.000-08:00

Black flats are my basic go to shoe. Does everyone have something like this? A “Go to” piece of clothing or shoes that if all else fails you can add to an outfit and feel good. My black flats are this item. They have to be the perfect black flats, which are sadly, very hard to find when you are on a budget. If I could afford some Lanvin, Chanel or some fancy designer shoe, I think I would never wear anything else. So pretty.

Since I do not have the budget of Imelda Marcos and must find something “affordable” instead of “perfect”, I need to do some research. Sadly, the last few pairs that neared perfection (J.Crew, Steven, Mia) we worn to death and tragically all had to be thrown away. Not even given away! That is when you know you have reached a very good CPU (Cost Per Use. Or how to determine if an item is worth the $. CPU of a party dress that is oh… $300? Probably about $100 CPU. CPU of a pair of perfect black flats? Probably negative or .01cent CPU. See how useful this can be to explain high cost items!? Does anyone else do this? Not so crazy, right?). Not sure if Michael quite agrees with that, especially in the case of Chanel flats (My sister has a pair and they are heavenly). So, no go on those for me…
Here is where my search has led me:

Vera Wang Lavendar Label "Lillian"{via}

Steve Madden "Kyros"

J.Crew Classic Leather Flat {via}

Repetto flats {via}

Gap City Flat {via}

I just received the Steve Madden shoes in the mail, but I am not so sure… Kind of odd, and the cap-toe leather at the front is kind of metallic, which was NOT mentioned in the description. And cheap looking. Eww. Now I am thinking perhaps J.Crew? Gap? Should I just bite the CPU and buy the Repetto's? If you have any recommedations, I would LOVE it.

Presenting... Eveningwear!

2010-11-24T09:39:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you, but Eveningwear reminds me of beauty pageants, and the eveningwear competition was easily my favorite. Beautiful girls dressed up in the fanciest of dresses. I loved it! Now my tastes run slightly more wearable and less Southern Debutante Barbie, so I am really loving this evening collection by Zara. So chic and simple. And affordable! Yay! Now I just need to find an "eveningwear" appropriate get-together to wear it to. Or, I will just have to throw one!

Okay, these last two are not eveningwear, but I just love them. Love the shoes. Love the coat. Love the hair. Love it all!

This is a blouse similar to one Olivia Palermo has worn, which I believe is Valentino, or Chloe (?) and a bit out of my price range... It falls within the whole 70's/bohemian/Mary Tyler Moore thing I have been leaning toward. But with a modern twist of course.

{all via}

{via}

1970's awesomeness. Love it! And Happy Thanksgiving! Eat some pumpkin pie for me! Actually, I will be eating plenty of pumpkin pie for myself. Thanks though! Enjoy!

Presenting... Inspiring Friday Find

2010-11-19T17:34:00.000-08:00

Today I was reading who knows what on the internet, and somehow happened upon the blog of Lulu De Kwiatkowski. She is an artist and textile designer of her eponymous line of fabrics and wallpapers, LuluDK. Her blog is so inspiring with exotic locations, fabrics, inspiration, and photos. I especially enjoyed the posts about her artistic process, how she designs her fabrics, the painting process and how her textiles are made. Plus, she seems like such a lovely, genuine person. I was so inspired! Now to channel that inspiration into my own textile designs… Maybe I should work on my kitchen floor like she does?

Images of her gorgeous home in Los Angeles:

{all images via her blog}

Presenting... Color! Part duex!

2010-11-18T13:39:00.000-08:00

{via}

Recently I have been loving all things bright and Technicolor (A few days ago, really). I don’t know if it is because of the dark and cold time of year, or if my tastes are just changing? Perhaps I am getting more adventurous. I think that might be it!

I have had a long standing love affair with white interiors, which is strange because although I have several white items in my closet, they are far overwhelmed by colorful things. I like Emily’s idea that your home should be a reflection of your personal style, so I need to shake things up and add some color. More pinks, blues, greens, mustardy colors and patterns! I love patterns... I am in school for Textile Design, so obviously… I can’t give up the white completely, I mean it is so refreshing and lovely. Plus it goes with all the patterns and colors that I am falling for. Love!!

{via}

{hmm. I wish I could remember! I want this fabric! Any ideas??}

xo, Sarah

A Picture Perfect Recipe

2010-11-17T13:45:00.000-08:00

{via}

These images of complete recipes by photographer Marina Aurora are simply amazing to me. How creative and simple! They are so neatly composed and each photo shows the ingredients and steps of the recipe. How great would these look framed in a kitchen? It would be so fun to try and make a recipe from one of the photos! Perhaps not so easy as far as precise measurements, but way prettier to look at. These make me want to go home and bake something!

xo, Sarah

My new rug!!

2010-11-16T12:55:00.000-08:00

I am not an expert when it comes to ebay shopping and have lost far more auctions than I have won. My most notable purchase were my lovely wedding shoes. I DIE. Still love them and can't believe they're mine.
So, my newest ebay purchase is this rug from Anthropologie:

So thrilled. Is it sad how this just made my day, or is this normal? I can't wait to put it in our bedroom. I think it will make the room really come together. There are lots of pieces of furniture in it that I like right now, but nothing to make it really amazing. Photos shall come fore, once the rug is placed on the floor. Haha. On a completely different note, does anyone watch How I Met Your Mother? It is just about the best show on TV right now, and I am an avid TV watcher. Please do yourself a favor and watch it. Right now. Did I mention it has Neil Patrick Harris in it?!

Love this.

2010-11-12T11:42:00.001-08:00

{via}

So inspiring. This is exactly what I needed to read today. Now, I just need to do it.

It's beginning to look a lot like...

2010-11-11T10:47:00.000-08:00

I could totally make this right?? I think I might give it a try...

I am sensing a trend here. Russian Christmas? V. good thing.

{all images from here}

Okay, so i know it's only November, but I am so excited for Christmas already! My first Christmas as a married lady. So fun! I am tempted to buy one of those cheesy "Our first Christmas" ornaments, but maybe a bit too sappy even for me...

Instead, I think I will head over to Antrhopologie and buy some of their adorable ornaments. Have you seen this video? Made me so happy to see all the little ornaments frolicking about. Love it! I love most things Anthro, so this doesn't really come as a surprise.

Even though I love Anthro, I feel like i am missing some fabulous ornament repositories. Where else should I be looking? Etsy? Other ideas???

Presenting... Color!

2010-11-09T12:25:00.001-08:00

{images from here and here}

I have been drawn to these bright, colorful images recently. Not sure if it's because the time just changed and we now are basically existing (you know, before and after work!) in the dark. How do people in Northern countries live with so much darkness during the winter? Hmmm. When I lived in London, I remember it getting dark super early in the winter. I admit I love the winter and fall seasons, but injecting a little color into your day or night to brighten things up sounds like a perfect fall pick-me-up. Especially the technicolor leaves. Amazing!

Presenting... Fur!

2010-11-05T12:42:00.000-07:00

{via}

{image via}

Although it has been almost 80 degrees for the past few days here, I have already started thinking of the holidays! And with that comes cold weather, coats and scarves, and the holidays! The perfect accoutrements to the holidays seem like fur (faux of course!). I think I need some fabulous boots like the ones above. Amazing. And perhaps a faux fur coat like this one. Michael is not, shall we say, a fan of the faux fur at all. But leopard and faux fur for under $100?! I may have to drop by the mall this weekend. Who knew American Eagle was so chic?

{image via}

Presenting... Current faves!

2010-10-26T15:17:00.000-07:00

lovely room. Just lovely. So much going on, yet it all works together. Love the madcap, pattern, stuff, bit of zaniness... So much more bold than I would dare to go, but I need to push myself. Don't even get me started on the blue. Perfection!

{via Lonny}

I saw this image and immediately fell in love with the wallpaper. Lisa Fine, can I be your roomie? Or more accurately, can I please know where you got this fabulous wallpaper?

Are these not the cutest shoes you have seen in awhile? They were for me. They would make adorable wedding shoes, or just super cute every day shoes. Ha! Did i just say everyday shoes? I wish i wore high heels everyday... Alas, in my little office, no one would care and I spare my feet for special occasions. Most of the time!

Green with envy

2010-10-21T16:23:00.000-07:00

{via}

Loving this color pallette. My textile design class has really been good, but rough lately, and I am feeling the need to be re-inspired. This blog has amazing images and then extracts a pallette from each one, and they are pretty amazing. I love to see what Lauren comes up with each day. And, I just found out how to extract a color pallette from a photo in Photoshop, and I am eagerly awaiting the chance to do it! Photoshop and I do not normally get along, so last night was a major breakthrough in our relationship.

Presenting... Home Crush, and the Livin' is Easy!

2010-10-08T11:11:00.000-07:00

{Images via here}

These images of Richard Christiansen's apartment at the Bowery Hotel in New York City, captured my imagination this morning. I mean, look at his view! How could you not love that? Other things I love... The deep marble bathtub and the black and white scheme going on. It looks so glamourous and old school. Langouring in the bathtub with wine and magazines sounds like a lovely evening (or heck, morning!). Sigh...

I also love the velvet boards behind the bed acting as headboards, but not quite a headboard. I feel an idea for my bedroom coming on... And the rich blue color with the coral on the duvet and sheets. Heaven! I scoured the internet looking for the sheets, but found out they are custom Sferra for The Bowery Hotel. Hm... What a fabulous bed to sleep in. I must admit one of my favorite activities is lounging in bed under a duvet on a weekend morning. The delicious feeling of not having to go to work, coupled with the soft light streaming in= pure bliss, in my opinion. I would gladly live in this hotel any day! The final kicker.... Room service! Sign me up, please!

oui, s'il vous plait!

2010-10-05T14:28:00.000-07:00

{via the Satorialist}

{via Martha Stewart, natch!}

How is it that I have never had the pleasure of having a macaron? (Are they delicious? I am assuming... I love cookies, but do not like madelines. Go figure. I'm an odd one.) I love French culture, and wish I was as chic as French women (how do they never get fat, by the way? I read the book, but am still kind of at a loss). Love seeing the Paris runway shows going on right now. Oh, how I wish I could attend. What has been your favorite? I have to say, I perennially love Chanel, Lanvin and Chloe. I think I would gladly take any one of those collections for my wardrobe. What about you? If you had to choose your entire wardrobe by only one designer, who would it be? (Who am I kidding, I would take a new wardrobe from anyday, even if it weren't Chanel!)

Presenting... Fall! And pumpkin pie!

2010-09-30T15:08:00.000-07:00

{Not my pie, but hopefully I will have a picture to show you soon. image via}

Today is October 1st and marks the first day of what feels like fall to me. I equate fall with pumpkin pie, and Pumpkin Pie Day is officially here (today), and pumpkin pie season has officially begun (October 1-December 31)! From now until New Year’s Eve I will be eating as much pumpkin pie as I can get my hands on. Seriously, I love the stuff.
I am a bit of a pumpkin pie snob and purist, so I can’t wait to bite into the deliciousness that is homemade pumpkin pie. None of this store bought business for me! Tonight my mother and I are baking a few pies from semi-scratch, meaning we make homemade crust (really, super easy and worth it) but use canned pumpkin. I think that constitutes home-made, right?! I can’t even describe how good they are. Smooth, creamy, deliciously yet delicately spicy, flaky crust... Hello fall! Glad you’re back!

She works hard for the money...

2010-09-30T13:17:00.000-07:00

So hard for it honey. Well, work has been a doozy the past month and a half, which has meant very little time to read blogs and be inspired. Boo. Not the best… But, I am feeling light on the horizon, and the freshness of fall approaching. Can I just lay on a pretty blanket like this lady during these lovely transitional warmish fall days? Sigh… Not with work and school keeping me busy! Did I mention I am in Textile School? In Berkeley? Fabulous, but far. I am loving it, don’t get me wrong, but it is just a bit overwhelming to work full time and also be in art school. I will work on sharing some of my projects soon… Stay tuned!

New name, new blog!

2010-09-29T15:01:00.000-07:00

Perhaps the best way to begin would just be to say a quick hello and introduce myself, again... I’m Sarah York. Mrs. York. Perhaps, Madame York? Yes. Mme. York But not Sarah, Duchess of York (which I get a- lot. Should I be insulted?).

I had a blog off and on for awhile while I was planning my wedding, (see the past posts), but I decided I needed something new, fresh and pretty. New name, new life, new blog! No?! Meci beaucoup for reading mes-amies! Not sure what will come next, but stay tuned for the fun. Oh yes, it will be quite delightful.
xo,
Sarah

Love this!

2010-07-21T18:21:00.000-07:00

{from here}

This product is amazing. I was a bit skeptical as it is $42 a bottle, but as I was going to get $25 dollars off for recycling my used Kiehl's containers (did you know about their instore, container recycling program? Really quite an amazing deal, seeing how you have to recycle or throw the bottles away anyway...)

and lo and behold, the Midnight Recovery Concentrate beckoned. The sales woman mentioned a few things about its anti-aging, skin repairing benefits, and before I knew it, it was mine! I have been using it for about 4 days, and my skin seriously has never looked better. No more dry flakiness, and my pores are barely noticeable! Now my skin feels smooth and velvety, kind of like a babies, well you know... It might just be my imagination, but I also feel like my skin is more radiant and fine-line-less. Totally worth it. Love this!

Closet Case

2010-07-13T17:16:00.000-07:00

{Jenna Lyons closet from Domino}

This morning as I rooted around in my closet I thought to myself, "I'm kind of hungry. What time is it? I need to hurry and get dressed. Did I wear this recently?" and also, "I need to re-organize my closet." How does it happen that one moment your closet is an clean, organized haven of possible wardrobe combinations, and the next moment it is a deep, chaotic cave that you can't find a thing to wear in? My dream closet would be much bigger than my current closet and might include the desciptive phrase, "it used to be a bedroom, but was converted to a closet..." It would also have wallpaper, a place to sit (deciding on outfits can be tiring! And some clothes are complicated and you need some support while getting them on! Putting on shoes!), and some art. Case in point... Closet perfection:

{Domino}

I would also take this wonderfully organed and put together room, er, I mean closet. Can I also have the contents please?

{Domino}

{Not sure...}

The ultimate closet dream... Carrie Bradshaw's closet!

Rachel Zoe's closet is not as "Bananas" as I would have thought. "I" do not "die." Never the less it is much larger than my closet now, and I would not shake a stick at it. Case closed.

Hello again!

2010-06-28T09:33:00.000-07:00

Oh, what a glorious weekend! Well, actually not much spectacular happened, but it was wonderful to watch the world cup and lie about in my pajamas past 7:30am. Heaven!

There was the normal hustle and bustle of the weekend- laundry, marketing, cleaning, seeing friends, church, a baby shower, the World Cup (Team USA! so sad. Moving on... Go Argentina!), etc. I also did a bit of baking and made these blueberry muffins. Seriously, they are super simple and amazing. Also, I made them a bit healthier and used half whole wheat flour and less oil. They still were light, fluffy, and delicious. Now if only instead of losing the recipe and crouching over a computer, teetering on the side of my counter, I had this lovely recipe box and recipe cards:

{Rifle Paper Co.}

Love this! I also have a very unsightly collection of stained, crumpled computer printouts that are not very LOBOROMO at all. I hate cutesy recipe cards and boxes, but this box, made from reclaimed wood by local craftsmen, and adorable cards to go inside. I would gladly handwrite all my recipes on these cards and bake way more often if I had such a cute recipe box. Although for now, I will have to come up with another solution for storing my recipes, as sadly I do not have the recipe for extra money at the moment...

{All via Rifle Paper Co.}

Vive le weekend!

2010-06-25T14:29:00.000-07:00

{Can i just live in a pretty outdoor tent all summer?}

I don't know if it was just me, but this week was a long and rough one. Feeling like it must have taken a year to get from Monday to Friday. Not that it was without fun mind you - I hung out with my sister (which then turned sad, as she moved to North Carolina), had a sunset picnic with M, watched the USA get to the next round of the World Cup, rediscovered my love of gummy bears... It's just that it is summertime and I am at work. I would so much rather be out enjoying the weather, eating ice-cream, napping, etc.

Not meaning to complain. Just explaining why I haven't posted anything recently. This weekend I am going to get refreshed and replenished and on Monday i will be raring to go! See you then.
xo, Sarah

And the winner (or the loser) of the ugly shirt contest...

2010-06-16T12:19:00.000-07:00

Here is the dubious 80's shirt in all it's glory. As you can see this photo was taken with my camera phone in the bathroom at work (I'm glamorous like that). What I was hoping was more retro-80's-Vogue-chic, was deemed more 80's-dowdy-ugly by my sister, friend and husband. Literally, Michael thought I was wearing this as a joke. Humph. So, not so modern and cute as I thought... After being told my shirt was ugly, I made Michael try on his ugly yellow, striped, polyester, hawaiian inspired bowling shirt and see whose shirt was uglier. I lost.

The outfit photo cometh...

2010-06-15T09:52:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, you were all waiting with baited breath to see the actual outfit that I wore to the wedding. Well, here it is! In real life, I feel like it was more successful. Or maybe I need to learn to take better pictures. I love the J.crew skirt. So cute and perfect in real life. The belt was worn a bit too low, now that I see it. (btw, am I hunching? Oh dear...) Oh, well. Next time. That is the fun of fashion! You can experiment and try new things, and wear the same old thing from your closet in different ways. Today, I am wearing an 80's thrift store top that I am trying to bring back. By bring back, I mean wear in a modern way, yet also reference the past. I kind of feel like I should be on an episode of Designing Women. Remember that show? Anyhoo, that is neither here nor there...

Here is a photo of me and my cute husband:

Adorable. I'll try to rustle up a pic of my outfit today, and you can let me know what you think...

Really?! With Sarah York.

2010-06-04T14:25:00.000-07:00

{Another wedding photo by Levi, of course!}

Really, I haven't posted since last weekend?! Come on, was I really so busy? Really?? Ie: sorry for the lack of posts lately (and sorry for the not so funny homage to "Really? With Seth and Amy" from SNL. It was much funnier in my head). I have been super inspired by design blogs and plans this week, and should be sharing said inspiration, but am also feeling blah at work, and so am trying to soak it all in so I then have something interesting to say. Poor Michael gets the brunt of the blah's when I get home everyday...
On an exiting note! I have been busy working on jewelry with a friend for our new business, August Mae Designs. And good news, a few of our rings we bought by a local store! On a consignment basis, Stripe Design Group will be selling a limited selection of our one of a kind creations! Hopefully soon it will be on a not-so-much-consignment basis! We are trying to also get our etsy site up and running, but being such newbies, it is taking awhile... If you are interested, photos should be up this week, here.
In the meantime, i am trying to just get and keep our house clean, let alone try and decorate. Oh, and I have an order coming in the mail from J.crew for my outfit for a wedding this weekend in Redding, CA. I don't know that much about Redding, as I only have visited once when I was young, and I only remember it being hot. That said, I was trying to find something summery and appropriate for a garden, summery wedding. Also, on a sort of tangent... The new J.crew catalog shoot in Guatamala?! I die. What I wouldn't give to be a part of those catalog shooting trips!

{Jcrew of course}

{an August Mae Designs ring! As worn to the office. Sorry for the bad phone pic}

I am thinking of wearing some gold shoes (espadrilles?), a cream colored, short sleeve cardigan, and maybe a brown belt and flower corsage? I would love to figure out a flower hat type-accoutrement but I only have a few hours, and I really should be cleaning, napping and spending some quality time with M. I'll post pics of my outfit on Monday. Come on back and check it out! Really!

Happy Memorial Day Weekend!

2010-05-28T10:31:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you, but I am beyond ready for a three day weekend. For me, this was a long week. I can't wait to sleep in, make coffee, climb back into bed, and maybe take a nap! Ah... I'm turning into such an old person. Not tonight though! Tonight, M and I are going to hit the town, New Zealand style and see this concert:

I love their show, and they are so cute, so I can't wait to see them live. I really hope they wear this:

The piano belt? Love it. Have a wonderful weekend!

My obsession...

2010-05-27T10:59:00.000-07:00

Hello, my name is Sarah, and I am a chair-o-holic. I love chairs, of all different styles and colors. I like the way they add to a space, yet are not as big a commitment as a couch. I found the chair above at an antique store for $40, and I think I may have to go buy it. It doesn't even need to be re-upholstered! Unlike my friends below:

These were on craigslist, and I almost bought them, but then my husband (the voice of reason) asked where we would put the chairs. What a silly question, where would we put them? There is ALWAYS ROOM FOR MORE CHAIRS! Okay, maybe not... He convinced me, they would be a big project that I don't really need at the moment. Then I saw this beauty:

again on craigslist (must stop looking for chairs on there...). But again, where would we put it? It would look fabulous re-upholsterd in this:

{via oliver fabrics}

Paint the legs a glossy white? It is not to be though. Even if it is only $10. (I know! $10!) I already have a wingback chair in the living room that needs to be re-upholstered in this:

{via oliver fabrics}

Even that can't be done at the moment, however, because a friend of mine and i are busy starting our ring empire... (and by ring, i mean jewelry. In case you were wondering...) Behold, August Mae Designs:

Soon to be found on etsy.com! More photos and info, coming soon...

Taking a Stand

2010-05-19T14:14:00.000-07:00

So, here is the nightstand that I found a few weekends ago at a little antique store. The place used to be called "Chair-ish the Thought", (Ha! Love it.) but now is owned by a darling couple who were having a great sale. The place is packed with stuff. Many chairs, but also other really amazing things. Including this nightstand, which I immediately wanted to paint (and might still), but the green is starting to grow on me... I was thinking white (BIG surprise, I know) but maybe I should do something more interesting and unexpected. Any recommendations or ideas?

Is it wrong to be in love with a Kitchen Aid Mixer, when it feels so right?

2010-05-10T16:31:00.000-07:00

I received the best present in the mail the other day. Okay, it wasn't really a present as I knew it was coming, but my sheer excitement when it arrived made me feel like a little kid on Christmas. Sad, I know... I was instantly smitten with the pistachio color at Bed, Bath & Beyond, and had to have it. That meant waiting for it to come in the mail, but I am so glad I waited. The pale shade of green is juuuuust right. Not to bright, yet not overly subtle you can't tell it is green. It is so pretty, yet it works so well! It mixes things with ease, and is not hard to use at all. The blueberry muffins I made for Mother's day were amazingly simple and delicious! Everyone (well, my mom, dad and Michael) was quite impressed with my baking skills. I just want to bake all day! Cookies and cakes and pies, oh my! Next up, perfect pizza dough! I am determined I can make dough even more delicious that Trader Joes. Don't get me wrong, I love TJ's dough (especially the whole wheat) but there is so much pressure once you buy it to use it right away before it goes bad. Eek! So, I am making my own so there is no pressure, just a lot more work that plopping dough onto the counter. At least I have my new friend to help!

Still waiting for photos.... But in the meantime, nightstands.

2010-05-04T13:17:00.000-07:00

{via The Brass Petal}

I like this simple nightstand. fun lines, utilitarian, unfussy. Also, a metal, which would be a good contrast from all the wood I have in the house. The wooden dressers from craigslist, and the wood floors. I want to paint the dressers, but Michael loves wood. I love me some wood (double entendre not indended...)but I really think they would look even better painted. Maybe a pretty french gray? Or you can never go wrong with white...

{again, not sure.}

Love all the white on white on white texture. My bedding is all white, but I need some white nightstands, lamp, headboard, etc...

{via here}

Okay, this isn't really a nightstand, but could be used for one. Right? Love the gate legs. Also, love the sofa. And the pillows, and the art, and the rug...

{via here}

I loved reading about this blogger, Nichole, who also loves the color white. Who doesn't though, right? Oh, not everyone? Okay. I love other colors as well, and honestly wouldn't want to live in an encapsulating white space (I think it would feel to modern and not LOBOROMO enough. See what I did there? It's going to be a thing!), but the allure and clean simplicity of a white bedroom makes me swoon. Did I just talk myself into a white nightstand? What do we think of this? Or this:

{via Amazon}

PS. Just got the wedding photos last night. Good heavens there are a lot of them! I'll be posting them soon!

Ikea does weddings! Kind of... Did we already know about this?

2010-04-29T16:49:00.000-07:00

Everyone knows the wonder that is Ikea. It really has almost everything, and when you wander through the showrooms, everything looks so great, and then you see the price and it is so cheap! A frame for 3 bucks? You can always use a frame! Michael and I were there the other night buying a few simple things for our home and amazingly only bought a few simple things for our home. "How restrained!" you must be thinking. Nope, we only had 40 minutes before they closed, because of our slight detours to get dinner at the world's best pizza place (well, one of the worlds best at least), and also another detour to pick up some of the best sauce that you can eat on anything (ice cream? No...i take it back).
All this food talk is making me hungry, but beside the point. Have you seen the Ikea wedding idea website? It is in Swedish, I suppose. I really don't know what it says... But the photos I understand! I should have used more Ikea stuff at our wedding! We did use very inexpensive things, in a chic way, but I love these photos for inspiration! I think all of the ideas would make for lovely weddings.

{image via}

I especially love the last image of the table top. So pretty! The glasswear, the feathers! Perfect. With a little creativity, Ikea can look like a million bucks. I think I may need to make a return trip again, even if I don't have a wedding as an excuse to shop anymore. Darn!

New name X 2!

2010-04-26T23:01:00.000-07:00

I just love this wallpaper... But that is neither here, nor there...

{image via}

I am back from the chaotic thrill of what is a wedding and then honeymoon, and normal life has begun again. Actually, life is not normal, because I am married! The wedding needs a whole post of its own, as it was frenetic, amazing, joyful, overly emotional, and all the very confusing and wonderful things that as I now, know, make up a wedding! Anyway, more on that later... The honeymoon, wow. Needs another post of its own as well. (aren't I a bit self-obsessed, thinking everyone wants to hear the nitty-gritty details...) Really though, Ireland was amazing, and then we were stuck there for 4 extra days due to THE volcanic ash cloud from Iceland. What a weird way to end a honeymoon, stuck in Ireland, then on a plane, praying that your plane will not crash, due to the engines being clogged by ash... A story for the grandkids! "In my day, planes couldn't even fly through ash clouds! We just sat and waited!"
I forgot where this was going... Oh, yes. I have a new name, and so does my blog! Sarah York. A nice ring to it, I think (very similar to Sarah Ferguson the Duchess of York, or so I keep hearing). I'll take it! Goodbye, Gunnison! I'm a new York! (Ha! Guess how many times I have heard that? You don't want to know...I'm sorry, you didn't need to hear it either.) I also recetly discovered there was already a blog called "Pretty Lovely Things", so I am really not original. Hmm.. So, from now on I will be going by, loboromo. Lovely, bohemian, romantic, modern- which is how I would like my life to be characterized. Love it, hate it? Original or not. Here I come!

We did it! Two weeks ago now...

2010-04-18T05:01:00.000-07:00

It all kind of feels like it was a dream... A very happy dream, but still. Is that normal??

Raindrops cannot fall on my be-veiled head!! Let us talk about fashion this Friday instead!

2010-03-26T12:58:00.000-07:00

So... weather.com is predicting rain showers for April 3. Not acceptable. We could have everything inside, but it would be cramped and not what I envisioned, so it must not happen. Have moved on from panic to a strange serene calm, and am quite certain it will not rain. Maybe delusional, but I. will. remain. calm. CALM!

Let's change the subject. I am really into polka dots these days. I will be wearing polka dot tights for the rehearsal dinner in 1 week, (though not just the tights, obviously will also be wearing this lovely dress ) and love this polka dot skirt above and below:

{image via}

Because I cannot entertain the possiblity of rain in the coming week, I will entertain the possiblity of adding this blue, polka dotted skirt to my closet instead...

Pretty Lovely Blooms

2010-03-25T16:53:00.000-07:00

{image via EmersonMade}

I am late to the bandwagon I am sure, but I have fallen hard for EmersonMade. The flower corsages are so adorable, and I love that Emerson models them herself. So cute! Also, once I saw the house that she and her husband live in in New Hampshire on Design*Sponge I was smitten. Can I move in please?

{All further images via }

I keep seeing Hunter Boots everywhere, and I have decided that I need some. Don't mind the fact that I live in a California beach town, and should invest more in flip-flops than in rubber boots, but that is neither here nor there. What I want to talk about is the coat. I haven't thought I could pull of a leopard print coat, but I totally want to. Maybe if i rocked it with the giant pink flower like in the picture. I am thinking Elizabeth Taylor meets hippie chic but updated for today. Too much?

Are these Frette Linens? I love the monogram. Also the stripes. Hmm... I really do need bedding at the moment. Anyway, so cute and so inspiring to make my life a little more lovely. Maybe I will start by odering a bloom. More on topic for my life at the moment- How can i use it for the wedding?