Design Undercover

Clouds

2010-05-19T14:21:00.001+01:00

Pocket carnival makes clouds cute & fun. Visit here

True gem

2010-05-18T14:02:00.004+01:00

A couple of weeks ago i attended my first designer fair in Sydney, a bundle of treasures called The Finders keepers, there i have had the pleasure to discover many talented artists that I am looking forward to introducing you in the next posts. My first is Adelaide based artist Naomi Murrell. Check out her site for loads of eye candies!

Meet Frankie

2010-05-16T07:18:00.002+01:00

So here i am in Australia. After much deliberations in which city to live in I ended up in Sydney and I can't say to be disappointed. While Melbourne has a great design and art scene Sydney has the beaches and the nicer weather but most importantly the design scene is much alive here as well you just need to look for it a little harder. I spend most of my new weekend exploring my new city and it's pure joy when you discover unexpectedly cool shops worth blogging about.
The decision on where to live really came down to where I'd find a job the quickest and Sydney didn't let me down in that regard so it worked out okay. First friend i have made in Australia is Frankie the coolest magazine that every month feeds my hunger for new design musings and entertains me with seriously smart and witty articles.

Gone travelling.

2009-12-05T14:27:00.001Z

Dear Design Undercover buddies,
i hope there are still a few of you out there that come visit once in while to check if i finally got my ass back in gear and start posting again... 2009 has been a bit of a mad year for me, and all the life changing events have made me loose track of my blog. Other things/events and new people in my life took priority... whats happening now?
well.. i have decided to take a year off and go travelling for a bit.
I am leaving next sunday and will be going exploring South East Asia for 3 months and then on to Australia. Once settled there i hope to pick up from here and start a new special Design Undercover down under!
I hope you re all doing well, and really hope you come check up on me in a couple of months time.

All the best,
Nathalie

Music posters

2009-10-21T17:34:00.001+01:00

some cool posters from bands i like ...designed by The Small Stakes

Birdnotes

2009-10-21T17:25:00.000+01:00

This is lovely...from Bodie and Fou

ACE

2009-10-21T17:19:00.002+01:00

Loving the coolness factor of this hotel Ace

I am going on a beer hunt....

2009-10-19T19:11:00.004+01:00

Not to be confused with a bear hunt... Yeah, I thought that was pretty cute too.

ANYway.....two years ago I stumbled upon an ale of the pumpkin variety on tap at Brooklyn's beloved Spuyten Duyvil.

I've been trying to remember it's name ever since leaving NY and I finally found it! Southern Tier Brewing Company's Pumking Imperial Pumpkin Ale is like pumpkin pie and beer had a love baby. While this beer is making it's seasonal rounds, no other beer will do.

Carl Sagan is goin' for it!

2009-10-19T19:00:00.005+01:00

If you are into awesome things....you might enjoy this.

Thanks to the Mental Floss Blog.

On Sundance...

2009-10-12T16:53:00.008+01:00

I am FREAKING OUT over Man Shops Globe, on the Sundance Channel. Is everyone watching this!!????? Basically a camera crew follows this gentleman around the world as he shops for "found objects" to fill the Anthropologie stores. Where does one apply to become his assistant????? (dramatic sigh...) It does my heart good to know that there is someone out there turning antique theatrical backdrops into wardrobe doors...

Also, I only just started watching old Iconoclasts episodes. So fantastic! The most recent was Robert Redford on Paul Newman. I could watch those two banter for hours! Oh Paul, how you are missed!

FOTC prints

2009-10-06T16:02:00.001+01:00

being a big fan of Flight of the conchords you can imagine how happy i was when i came across this cool print! more to choose from at the Poster Cabaret

Please Vote!

2009-10-05T15:36:00.005+01:00

Guten Morgen!

I'd really appreciate your stopping by to check out my submission for this month's design competition on Exuve.com. The Cafe Demel Dress, is made of caramel coloured silk with honey and butterscotch coloured beading and embroidery on the sleeves. Twas inspired by the heyday of Viennese Cafe society.

If you like it, please take a second to cast your vote! There are ten days left to vote and the winner has their garment produced and sold online, so do drop by when you have a chance! Vote HERE

Missing....

2009-10-05T15:21:00.000+01:00

Bruxxels

Free wishes!!

2009-08-12T23:22:00.003+01:00

Don't forget to have a gaze at the stars this evening. It's the last night to see the peak of the Perseid meteor shower.

In other news, did you know that 2009 is the International Year of Astronomy? I had no idea.

So sad to be missing...

2009-08-11T17:13:00.009+01:00

...the last few days of de Parade in Amsterdam. I was introduced to de Parade by my dear friend Kieu (who've I've fallen embarrassingly out of touch with, forgive me Kieu!).

De Parade is hands down one of the coolest festivals I've ever been to...and people...with six years spent in Deutschland, I've been to some festivals.... De Parade is a traveling theatre fest that begins in Rotterdam, and ends in Amsterdam, stopping in Den Haag and Utrecht along the way.

The cool factor being that all the amusement and vendor booths look like they were plucked from an old school 1930's era carnival. This time last year I was tucked at a table under a tree with two of the most charming of ladies, sipping rosé, eating some sort of organic Moroccan salad, amidst the glow of vintage carnival rides. Perfection!

The food is amazing, each vendor keeping with the theme, and there is so much to see and do. On the odd chance that you are heading to Amsterdam in the next few days, be sure to check it out!

These beautiful pictures are from my new favorite blog From Amsterdam with Love which you should also check out!

A quick cocktail for the fleeting days of summer...

2009-08-10T19:07:00.005+01:00

Don't bother with mincing, spritzing, or blending. Just combine equal parts chilled Limoncello Creme liqueur (I use Giori) with Elite Naturel's Rose Sherbet.

Stir, pour over ice, and go fling yourself into a hammock to enjoy. If you need a little sparkle, add a splash of club soda. So simple, so delicious.

Mmmm

2009-08-02T19:05:00.002+01:00

Enjoying life in beautiful Munich today i had the most delicious apricot tart...
Photo and how to.. via Orangette

Le print

2009-08-02T19:02:00.001+01:00

loving this print by illustrator Andrew Bannecker
Bonjour Mr Bloom :)

Cute

2009-07-16T16:09:00.000+01:00

New Decals from Blik

Niiiice

2009-07-16T16:03:00.000+01:00

Dwarf Wired Lamp from Bodie and Fou

Loving....

2009-07-16T15:59:00.000+01:00

the new Enamel range by Johnathan Adler !

Design Undercover update !

2009-07-16T15:49:00.002+01:00

Dear friends,
as you might have noticed to say that postings have been light is a major understatement...my life has gone through a series of big changes and poor Design Undercover has suffered ... amongst the many things, most of which are personal, i have moved home and as am sure most of you have done once or twice in their life it is hard work! have had no Internet connection for the past month and well...i'll stop and just say that i have missed blogging so much and that hopefully now that i have started settling into my new home I will be able to get back to regular posting. So stay tuned!
Nathalie

In the thick of a mosquito assult...

2009-07-12T16:03:00.003+01:00

Seriously, they are brutal right now, and I can't imagine a whole summer of bug spray dousings. Must order some bug repellent bars from Beekman 1802.

They are "made of goat milk, and naturally scented with Citronella, Eucalyptus and other essential oils shown to help keep bugs away." Yay to deet free summers!

Summer Dresses

2009-07-12T14:12:00.004+01:00

SWEET Check Pattern Sundress by MySweetieGirl on Etsy - $29.99

Sweet Ruffles Layer Dress by MySweetieGirl on Etsy - $49.99

SAILOR DRESS by MySweetieGirl on Etsy - $49.99

Quite Lovely Indeed...

2009-07-02T15:51:00.009+01:00

Has everyone seen both of the Grey Gardens films (the original doc and the new film)?

If you are well versed in all things Big and Little Edie then you might appreciate the Grey Gardens Collections. GGC offers a fantastic selection of jewels and accessories inspires by "Little Edie's unique style and creativity." These cuffs take my breath away!

"Apaquogue" Turquoise Velvet Cuff - $325

The Grey Gardens Cuff in Sterling Silver - $750

"Pauls Lane" Burgundy Velvet Cuff - $325

Matcha

2009-06-25T17:12:00.005+01:00

I am a tea-aholic. OOlongs, flavoured blacks, herbals, florals, roobis, whites, and of course greens, I love them all. But matcha green tea is perhaps the most rewarding cup I ever make. Matcha is the most traditional and ceremonial of teas in Japan.

My reverence towards matcha was cultivated early as a young girl, mystified by the noble simplicity of tea ceremony at school in Tokyo. Every sip conjures up memories of tatami mats, tea whisks, silken kimonos, shoji screens, tea bowls, and the ritualistic turning of the tea bowl.

However, I don't drink matcha sheerly for nostalgia's sake...i also drink it because it is insanely healthy. How healthy? I suggest you check out this site for a little matcha tutorial. The highlights being:

-One cup of matcha is equivalent to ten cups of brewed green tea in terms of nutritional value

-Matcha made in the traditional Japanese style, whisked with water, is a full-bodied green tea. The intensity of the experience compares to one’s first taste of dark chocolate or red wine.

-Chlorophyll, the pigment which gives leaves their green color, helps to remove heavy metals and chemical toxins from the body

-Matcha contains L-theanine, an amino acid known to relax the mind. For this reason, matcha is also known as a mood enhancer. Buddhist monks drank matcha to assist in meditation, as matcha’s amino acids, combined with caffeine, offer a sustained calm alertness over time

抹茶 Matcha by Eat-My-Heart-Out 你吃,我看

I am a little surprised that matcha green tea is harder to find in the US and Europe than the basic green teas. So go out and spread the word!

Help, I entreat you kind readers....

2009-06-25T15:50:00.009+01:00

...to please stop by the design competition on Exuve.com and vote for my submission. I would be entirely humbled an honored if you would, at the very least, check it out and if you are even mildly amused...to vote for it. The winner for each category will have their outfit made and sold on their web site.

It's called the Eddie Romper. It was supposed to be called the Edie Romper (inspired by that one of a kind Grey Gardens style), but somehow got retitled Eddie in the submission process. It's generally my policy to embrace accidents, so Eddie it is!

Thanks Exuve!

Jennifer Behr

2009-06-24T23:38:00.006+01:00

Ever a fan of jewels in the hair (your suspicions are correct, I am not a practical woman), how I relish Jennifer Behr's exquisite head adornments.

encrusted crystals on silk chiffon

vintage gold knot headwrap

encrusted crystal padded headband

crystal wing

Weary Feet

2009-06-23T20:12:00.006+01:00

A day of traipsing around the Smithsonian Institute in foolishly high but fantastically charming heels had me wishing for a Rollasole machine by the end of the day. Ballet flat vending machines should be scattered throughout all city centres!

Oz's Illionaire

2009-06-23T18:34:00.009+01:00

I waited a while to post about the Aussie label Illionaire's Fall Lookbook. I thought that perhaps it was one of those things I would get less excited about over time. But the opposite seems to be true as I am even more in love with these pics from their Fall 09' lookbook.

Illionaire, do please spread your wares around the world! We enjoy! A few odds and ends can be found and purchased here .

Ikea Rugs

2009-06-15T10:16:00.000+01:00

Happy Birthday Nathalie!!

2009-06-06T00:28:00.003+01:00

Saturday is our darling Naty's birthday! So everyone go out and buy yourself a cupcake to celebrate our beloved blogger and dear friend. Happy birthday Nathalie! May all of your years be filled with naught but happiness. We love you!

This sunday

2009-06-05T09:53:00.000+01:00

Click here for more details

Just Darling

2009-06-04T17:58:00.004+01:00

The Park Dress by Filly on Paper Doll - $190

Cirque du Cheval

2009-06-04T17:29:00.004+01:00

If I had this lil number by Michelle Sackson of Cirque du Cheval I would wear it every day this summer, and probably go blueberry picking at some point in time... I love it. Michelle is now on my radar.

Abigail Adams silk jumper

Sofie Ølgaard

2009-06-04T17:03:00.006+01:00

Melancholic and playful...apparently the way to go when describing Scandinavians...and making clothes. So says Sofie Ølgaard about her designs. I fall in love several times every day, and this is one such occasion. These pieces are simple, classic and so so beautiful. They make me want to book a quiet weekend at a B & B in Maine.

Things i need ...

2009-06-03T17:15:00.001+01:00

JBL Encounter speakers

Sustainable design

2009-06-03T09:24:00.001+01:00

Beautiful pitcher made of recycled glass from Branch

This weekend...

2009-05-29T11:11:00.003+01:00

&Prints from Keep Calm Gallery

Wedding/Music video :)

2009-05-29T10:50:00.003+01:00

As you might have noticed i am not that big into the all Wedding talks here on Design Undercover, or outside of it, for that matter, should i ever get married i would want it to be a very low key affair BUT i have to agree with Joanna ... this is the best wedding video EVER ...thanks to A cup of Jo for sharing...Click here to see it

Those Dutchies

2009-05-23T17:27:00.004+01:00

These "Delft Blue" tiles are hilarious!

They are of the Dutch designer, Daryl van Wouw's, in his new shop located at 705A Prinsengracht in 1017 JV Amsterdam.

Pictures found on Nenzpaper

Yes Please

2009-05-23T16:35:00.004+01:00

Women's Silk Linen/Organza Dress by Anzevino & Florence on 80's Purple.com - $220

Women's Bridgette Jumper By Fremont on 80's Purple.com - $265

Avian flu...i mean fever

2009-05-23T16:09:00.008+01:00

Aviary Mug From Popdeluxe - $9.99

The Empty Birdcage Necklace From Adorapop on Etsy.com - $26.50

Lory Tote From Brooklyn Industries - $78

La Fraise

2009-05-23T02:02:00.003+01:00

Love Story T-Shirt from Lafraise.com - 19,00 €

Throw Back

2009-05-23T01:42:00.003+01:00

I love these old school appliances by Big Chill.

New

2009-05-21T09:52:00.000+01:00

New Arrivals at YoYo Ceramics !

The Paper towel

2009-05-21T09:48:00.001+01:00

Cool. From Mocha

New project for Design Undercover

2009-05-21T09:39:00.003+01:00

A very good friend of mine is expecting her first baby so it is only natural for Designer Undercover to offer some decorating suggestions, i will prepare a mood board for the baby room so stay tuned .... ( poster from french based L'affiche moderne)

AntiGraphic on Etsy

2009-05-21T09:31:00.002+01:00

Love this print by graphic designer Patrick Edgleley AKA AntiGraphic

I've been psedo shopping again...

2009-05-19T17:31:00.007+01:00

...on Refinery 29. A surprising lack of colour, yet I am still delighted over the following...

Chulette Tuxedo Dress From the Thistle & Clover Shop - $299

Rachel Nasvik's Patricia Satchel bag From the TenOverSix Shop - $594

Mini-Cigarette Shrunken Literature Books From the TenOverSix Shop - $18

Sailor Top From the In God We Trust Boutique - marked down from $225 to $50

Royale Dress From the Shelly Steffee Shop - $575

Love love love Besame Cosmetics mucho!

2009-05-19T16:26:00.005+01:00

I am head over heels for Bésame Cosmetics. I respect anyone devoted to infusing the ordinary with romance. This seems to be Gabriela Hernandez's gift, Bésame's founder and CEO. She "has brought artistry and romance back to the cosmetics industry. She has created a line infused with a romantic sensibility that is rich in historical details."

Bésame offers a fantastically elegant product range instilled with that fab Biba-Luxe je ne sais quoi.

Sold on Zappos.com and Babygirlboutique.com But do check out the company site, it makes me want to tango.

Rose Water Panna Cotta

2009-05-18T21:23:00.003+01:00

A word about floral flavored food items...I CANNOT get enough. It's become an obsession. An unhealthy obsession because I have had six SIX Rose Water Panna Cottas with Honey Blackberry sauce in the past week...and I have every intention on making another batch this week. It's just that good.

The original recipe was in the February Martha Stewart magazine. It called for a crystallized ginger, raspberry, and lychee sauce. Not really my ideal flavor combo, so i did a super simple blackberry one and it was divine. Here is the Martha recipe with the blackberry sauce:

Ingredients
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
1 tablespoon cold water
1/3 cup mascarpone cheese
2 to 3 teaspoons rose water
1 drop pink/red food colouring
1 pint blackberries
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon seltzer water
1/2 teaspoon powdered sugar

1 Mix cream and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves and mixture just begins to simmer. Remove from heat.

2 Meanwhile, in a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over cold water and let stand until softened, about 2 minutes. Add to hot cream mixture, stirring until gelatin dissolves.

3 Place mascarpone in a medium bowl. Strain cream mixture over top, stirring until smooth. Add rose water, and food coloring if using. Strain mixture into a large glass measuring cup or a bowl. Divide among four demitasse cups or 2-ounce ramekins. Refrigerate until set, about 2 hours (or overnight).

4 Wash blackberries and place in a medium bowl. Using a pastry cutter mash the berries to your desired consitency. Warm up the honey (either in the microwave or a saucpan). Add honey, seltzer water and powdered sugar to the berries and mix. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

5 Dip bottoms of molds into hot water to loosen, then invert onto plates. Top with berry sauce and serve!

2009-05-08T16:54:00.004+01:00

Have a fun weekend everyone !! :)
image from Allposter

Cute !

2009-05-08T16:00:00.000+01:00

From the Curiosityshoppe

I

2009-05-07T16:09:00.000+01:00

from the Papermoth

On my wishlist !

2009-05-05T10:08:00.003+01:00

Absolutely head over heels with Nina's ceramics ...i want, i want, i want :) Check out her beautiful shop on Esty

Wallpaper Tuesday

2009-05-05T10:01:00.001+01:00

Wallpaper designs by Jocelyn Warner

Eager for Eggers

2009-04-29T21:00:00.004+01:00

Super excited for the upcoming film written by novelists Dave Eggers and his wife Vendela Vida. It's called "Away We Go", directed by Sam Mendes and here is the trailer....

I'm also growing impatient for the film version of the beloved children's book "Where the Wild Things Are," scheduled for release in the fall. It's been adapted by Dave Eggers and Spike Jonze (also directed by Mr. Jonze). Everyone had this book when they were young things, right???

Thrifty times call for thrifty designers...

2009-04-29T17:18:00.007+01:00

I love the Guardian's "Make your own designer clothes and accessories" section!

You can learn how to:

Make your own Vivienne Westwood dress

Make your own Celia Birtwell stencil print bag

Make your own Giles Deacon ruff t-shirt

Make your own Paul Smith shirt

...and loads more. There are also a bunch of fun projects in the "Craft" section

Another reason to visit San Fran...

2009-04-29T15:23:00.009+01:00

I keep reading about the Hotel Vertigo located in San Francisco's Nob Hill. Clearly a visual ode to the film Vertigo, I love the technicolor set-design vibe. Originally called The Empire Hotel, the building served as Kim Novak's character Judy's residence in the film.

More pics on the hotel's site.

And of course an obligatory pic of Kim Novak...

Speaking of Hitchcock classics, I entirely missed this Vanity Fair spread from last year. Each shot is a reproduction of a Hitchcock movie still with today's little stars and starlets. I do so enjoy, check it out!

Whimsy

2009-04-29T15:00:00.002+01:00

I am in love with these prints by children's book author and illustrator Taeeun Yoo on Etsy !

Firefly Night $25

Balloons $25

Whale and a Boat $25

More on her blog.

Oval Print Chair Table Candles

2009-04-20T14:44:00.003+01:00

This makes me happy.

Small Oval Print Chair Table Candles Nowvintage on Esty

Indoorframes...

2009-04-16T00:36:00.008+01:00

Indoorframe € 89,00

I love these indoorframes, they make me think of the Taj Lake Palace Hotel in Udaipur, India....

Don't get me started on my love for the Taj Lake Palace. I haven't been there yet, but I am afraid once I get there I will throw down and refuse to live anywhere else.

Do you catch my drift???

By Bahadur Singh aus Rajasthan, Indien

By Bahadur Singh aus Rajasthan, Indien

Last one, I swear...

By Bahadur Singh aus Rajasthan, Indien

Vintage kitchen

2009-04-15T16:54:00.003+01:00

Tea

Utensil set

Spice shakers

The messenger bag

2009-04-15T16:47:00.001+01:00

Etsy

Remember to...

2009-04-15T16:44:00.000+01:00

From Bodie and Fou

Junichiro Koizumi, I Miss You!

2009-04-15T14:20:00.002+01:00

The DC area cherry blossoms were here last week. We had a lovely little hanami fête under our three trees last Sunday.

My family is feeling a bitter-sweet nostalgia for our years spent in Japan. Before our move back to the US, we were lucky enough to snag invites to the annual blossom viewing held in Shinjuku Gyoen, Tokyo.

Shinjuku Gyoen Tokyo by Japaneselifestyle.com.a u

It was a stunning day filled with kimonos, blossoms, Junichiro Koizumi sightings, famed sumo wrestlers, sake, and KFC (I kid you not, they helped cater). The Japanese love their KFC which leads me to my favorite picture on Engrish.com ever...

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

FROM BLOSSOMS TO SAKE....

I've been intrigued by the Cate Blanchett ad I've been seeing for SK-II.

I've seen SK-II a million times but was never the wiser about it's significance. The story roughly goes: in a Japanese sake factory a scientist noticed that the workers who handled the rice grains/yeast had remarkably youthful, subtle and soft hands despite their ages.

Long story short...a team of scientists put their heads together and Pitera, the key ingredient in SK-II, was born. Pitera apparently allows "the skin's natural surface rejuvenation process to function at its prime, enhancing the renewal of the skin's outer layer."

Of course this miracle serum doesn't come cheap, a 5oz. bottle runs about $145. Fortunately, Komenuka Bijin is a product line developed around the same thinking (sake rice bran/yeast equals youthful skin) for about half the price.

Serum Toner is $76

Komenuka Bijin Facial Cleansing Powder $33
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

FROM SAKE TO ONSENS...

Shirahone Onsen by Sunsengnim

Japanese hot springs and bath houses are a fantastically therapeutic tradition. Shu Uemura is tapping into the vein of bath/spring culture with their classic line Pleasure of Japanese Bath. The line features four different bath oils in "traditional Japanese fragrances, each inspired by nature." Cherry Blossom, Cypress, Iris, and Citron.

Shu Uemura Pleasure of Japanese Bath: Sakura $40

Fabrics

2009-04-03T12:45:00.001+01:00

Lovely new Baboushka fabrics at Voyage Decoration

Entirely Unrelated to Design....

2009-03-27T21:18:00.004Z

Naty gave me license to post about anything I feel so inclined towards. So if you are really only here for visual aesthetics or you don't like animals, feel free to skip this.

The following story is something I saw on PBS' Nature show ages ago. In the years since, I have retold this story to everyone I know. I swear I even do Solomon's voice. One of the most heart warming animal stories I've ever heard. It's out of control. I cry like a baby every time I watch this. SPOILER ALERT: Two words, elephants hugging...

Part 1

Part 2

Does this mean I should learn the Charleston?

2009-03-27T01:58:00.008Z

Wednesday evening I was flipping through the channels and stumbled upon American Idol...ok that's a lie...let me start over.

Wednesday evening I was watching American Idol (go Scott!) and I was entirely taken by the sassy lil' flapper number Lil Rounds was sporting for Motown night.

Normally fringe dresses, as much as I want to love them, tend to scream cheap Halloween costume to me. But the gradient on this dress absolutely refreshes this look. I love it and if you do too, you can purchase it at Bonadrag.com!

Eden Dress $134
by With Hearts In My Eyes

In other roaring 20's related discoveries it seems Kiera Knightley is set to play F Scott's wife, Zelda Sayre Fitzgerald in a Biopic set for release in 2010. I find this entirely unsatisfying...I would much have preferred an actress with a bit more complexity and intrigue...but that's just me...

And oh my heavens! There is going to be a remake of The Great Gatsby!!!!!!????? What!? I don't know if I am really excited or really worried right now. It's the newest undertaking of Baz Luhrhmann. I think most people can agree that the original is untouchable!

I feel both entirely curious as well as unsettled by these morsels of information.... Until they hit the silver screen, I will be doing my research as Flapper: A Madcap Story of Sex, Style, Celebrity, and the Women Who Made America Modern is on my reading list!

Source: Thefirstpost.co.uk

I should be sewing but..

2009-03-26T15:32:00.005Z

...i'd rather post about ribbon necklaces. They seem to be everywhere these days and for now I'm cool with that, but check back in 6 months as my position may have changed on this. But for now, check out these pricey adornments....

Sonia Rykiel
Crystal-embellished necklace- $1,950 from Net-a-porter.com

Yves Saint Laurent
Glass pearl necklace- $1,495 from Net-a-porter.com

Lanvin
Lacquered crystal necklace - £1,325.00 from Brownsfashion.com

Malene Birger
Multicolored bead necklace- $295 from Net-a-porter.com
(this one makes me think of Now and Laters...am I right?)

Legwork

2009-03-23T15:09:00.006Z

Geisha
£29.95

I flippin' love these tights by Bebaroque. However, I would cry if (I mean when) I was to get a hole in them. I definitely learned my lesson after paying $30 for Spanx stockings only to have a gaping hole in them two days later. Great stockings definitely go in the ephemeral category for me...that being said...I still want some...even if they are £30.

Viper
£29.95

Dorothy
£29.95

Cleopatra
£30.00

Lovely Little Lights

2009-03-22T23:33:00.003Z

These lights are so sweet and pretty!

From Feinedinge.at

The First Day of Spring and I'm Already Dreaming of Summer...

2009-03-21T23:17:00.010Z

Because of these little numbers by Norma Kamali. Sigh....

Bill Bra
PRICE: $175.00

Bill Swim Suit
PRICE: $350.00

Goddess Swimdress
PRICE: $350.00

All of which I will of course be sporting at my new "Unique Neoclassical Waterfront Residence" in Patras, Greece. Oh life....

Orla's stairs ...

2009-03-20T12:29:00.002Z

Before

and After

I love Helen 's before and after, what a fab job !! Her victory is well deserved over at Living Etc.
Beautiful work, congrats Helen !

Sweet Colors

2009-03-20T12:16:00.001Z

From the Irish Times

Cafe Moto

2009-03-19T21:54:00.009Z

How I love love love love Cafe Moto..... It's perfectly positioned under the ghostly rattle and clack of the J/M subway line at the Hewes St. stop (the second stop into Brooklyn). Next time you're holidaying in New York City, keep this place in mind for a perfectly cozy dinner.

I have a serious obsession with their Swiss Alpine Mac and Cheese with Caramelized Onions and Applesauce. Plus it's the only place in Brooklyn where I've seen Sticky Toffee Pudding on the menu.....mmmmmmm

They have great music as well. One night, they had a jazz trio huddled in the corner and a gentleman was playing an antique saxophone, it was perfection.

Here's what NY Mag had to say:
A check-cashing storefront under the rumbling JMZ in Bushwick becomes an artists' cafe in South Williamsburg, and so goes another New York metamorphosis. It's possible you'd even mistake Moto's surreal interior, at once both familiar and unsettling, for the backdrop of a Kafka novel: The sepia tones of this apothecary-like setting are sharpened by flashes of futuristic metal (the bar's taps are refitted bike parts, hence the name). But not all is doomed: Marble-topped tables, crusty panini, hushed patrons, and $6 tap beers like chocolate-y Corsendonk, dense Guinness, and spunky Stella reveal a more palatable intellectual side. — Carla Spartos

Cafe Moto
394 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11211
at Hooper St.
718-599-6895

Pics from NY Mag Slideshow

Guilty!

2009-03-14T14:30:00.012Z

By Lisa F.

I am going to assume that most people have seen this site before, but still I must declare my love for Lookbook.nu. I meant to post about it ages ago but every time I sit down to do it I just get lost in browsing, and after a few hours put it off for yet another day.

By Melli A.

By Ting S.

By Alex T.
Having lived near eight fantastic cities in the past eight years years (Dublin, Munich, Chicago, Tokyo, Shanghai, Seattle, New York, Amsterdam) I have long been obsessed with street style from around the globe. Prior to Lookbook's launch, I had to satiate my international hipster style cravings with hours of endless clicking through a perpetually growing list of street fashion blogs. Well, no longer.

By Catherine B.

By Fresh Garbage Vintage P.
Lookbook allows style consciousness boys and girls of the world to upload their looks, these looks are then voted or "hyped" by the Lookbook users. Definitely a lil' self indulgent, but still fun if you are into new ways to style your wardrobe or just looking at pretty pics. I can't help it, I am into it.

By Kitten R.

By Anita S.

By Femke Valerie B.

By Samantha M.
Another fun site I keep ending up on is The Selby.com. In the site's own words "The Selby features photographs, paintings and videos by Todd Selby of interesting people and their creative spaces".

dustin yellin - artist

At the back...

2009-03-12T14:16:00.002Z

A work of art in Dublin 4...this will surely bright up the neighborhood, read the full article here in the Irish Times online

Domino @ Urban Outfitters

2009-03-11T13:59:00.002Z

Wondering around the wee home section of Urban Outfitters last night i excitedly found out they are selling the Domino Book of Decorating... i know its there on sale on the net and available in a click but it was still exciting to see all the copies just sitting there. I think i actually said something out loud like " oh Wow look ! " even if there was no-one around to look with me ! Just me and the Domino mag groupie in me.

What?

2009-03-07T00:45:00.004Z

As previously mentioned, I am sucker for ballet flats. These are right up my alley! Found on Fashion-conscience.com, really a super duper site. They are a UK based company (that ship world-wide) set out to source ethically sound clothing and accessories that don't compromise style. So that includes organic, fair-trade, sustainable, recycled, and vegan clothing.

I'm down with smart fashion. I am very into shopping at charity shops for overlooked pieces, ripping them apart and putting them together in a new way. There is so much out there already, might as well reuse it instead of just adding to the pile. This seems to be a mindset that's really taking off with indie designers.

Anyway, I digress...the flats. They are made out of bubblegum scented plastic....WHAT!!! Who doesn't want to live in a world where shoes smell like bubblegum!

PS: Fashion-conscience has quite a few pretty unmentionables. Sorry boy readers....

What Would Audrey Do?

2009-03-06T14:16:00.008Z

Do you have phrases that you mutter to yourself? Is that weird? Well, I've always evoked the phrase "what would Audrey do?" in random situations. And look what book I just stumbled upon at Amazon! "What Would Audrey Do?" by Pamela Keogh. Here is the write up:

"Though on-camera she was often cast in the role of a carefree ingénue, Audrey Hepburn’s off-camera life was marked by challenges: growing up without a father and with the Nazi threat during her youth; a demanding film career while she was a young mother; unfaithful husbands and two divorces; and constant scrutiny from the media. Yet Audrey Hepburn always epitomized beauty and grace. In the tradition of What Would Jackie Do? bestselling author Pamela Keogh culls lessons in loveliness from a woman who survived every setback with panache. Topics include:

• Dating and romantic advice from a woman who enjoyed romances with John F. Kennedy, William Holden, and Albert Finney

• A primer on what made Audrey the icon she is today, and how to apply her style choices to twenty-first-century clothes, makeup, and accessories

• Raising children, raising husbands, and making home life balanced in every way

• St. Audrey: Long before Angelina and Bono got all the press, Audrey Hepburn did invaluable work for UNICEF, teaching us much about extending ourselves to others.

In an era fraught with selfishness, artifice, and sensational headlines, the reality and tranquility of Audrey is precisely what the world needs now."

I am obsessed, a period I think most women go through at least once in their lives. I just finished reading "Enchantment: The Life of Audrey Hepburn," and now I am watching the Audrey film collection in the order that she made them. Fun! What's your favorite Audrey movie? Mine has always been Charade.

Back to books, have you heard of Shelfari? It's a great way to keep up on what your friends are reading/have read/are planning to read. It's like facebook for bookworms. I am into it.
My Shelf

The Wannabe Table

2009-03-05T12:37:00.001Z

Smart solutions for when you are in between homes

Nice idea by PID.SE

Get writing...

2009-03-05T12:24:00.001Z

... on these beautiful notebooks from Kate's Paperie now only $12 !! Lovely patterns...

Deliciousness

2009-03-04T17:33:00.007Z

If you are planning a trip to the New York City this Springtime and you find yourself near Union Square do yourself a favor....stop by The Stand (not to be confused with The Strand Books, though equally worth your time and incidentally just around the corner). They have the most fantastically delectable toasted marshmallow milkshakes.

This shake entirely re-calibrated my idea of what a milk shake can be. I was addicted when I lived in Brooklyn. I would even move back just to have easy access to this nectar of the dairy and sugar gods. In theory, one could easily recreate this at home, but I haven't gotten up the courage.

The Stand (24 East 12th St, betwixt University Avenue and 5th Avenue)

..................................................................................

In keeping with the subject of dessert drink addiction, I must confess my adoration for Hui Lau Shan. How this chain of dessert restaurants from Hong Kong hasn't become Asia's gift to the West baffles me. I mean come on, we gave them Hong Kong Disneyland, and soon to be Shanghai Disneyland, it would be a fair trade.

While living in Shanghai, my brother, sis-in-law and I (unable to decipher Chinese characters) called Hui Lau Shan simply Mango Mango. It was our obsession, a melange of fresh fruit served every way imaginable. Shanghai summers are out of this world HOT, and the perfect antidote was a cool mango coconut drink and chilled mango glutinous rice cakes (I swear more delic than they sound). If you are ever in China, get yourself to a Hui Lau Shan!!!!!! Apparently someone opened a pseudo version of HLS in NYC's Chinatown, I gave it a go but it wasn't the same.

Lady Michelle

2009-03-04T16:54:00.005Z

People are actually giving First Lady Michelle Obama flack about her penchant for sleeveless dresses. She wore a sleeveless number by Naciso Rodriguez to the Presidential Address before Congress last week, a. An article on the Huffington Post quoted a Chicago Tribune reader as saying "'Does the lady not understand that these Big Speech Events are serious and important? Not a cocktail party?'"

How is this even an issue? Do fashionable women really have to dumb down their style to be taken seriously in politics? I think she always looks fabulous and tasteful!

Dress by Naciso Rodriguez

Gown by Peter Soronen

Window Shopping

2009-03-03T17:47:00.005Z

I love these handpainted re-claimed windows by OceAnika. You really need to look for the subtle details.

The Etsy Motherload

2009-02-27T03:12:00.003Z

Less talk, more Etsy! I am just going to list in the order of the grid. Enjoy!

1.Lace Bordered Top by Eclecticorium $44
2.T-Shirt by Marketstoreshoppe $20
3.Kimono Dress by Lemonstorynyc $110
4.Tunic Dress by PanoramaPony $100
5.Blue Bow Bolero by Joyess $28
6.Paisley Jumpsuit by Suigenerisclothing $89

1.Migration Shift by emilyryan $400
2.Wool Dress by Kcoline $395
3.Pierrette Dress by Kcoline $499
4.Pleated Jacket by Yellowcake $180
5.Tie Blouse by Lemonstorynyc $75
6.Red Dress by Janeyclothing $40
7.Seaside Top by Papercup $48
8.Silk Taffeta Dress by Hollystalder $265
9.Black Silk Dress by Soul2mate $270
10.Gold Lace Dress by Hollystalder $145
11.The Doily Dress by ArmoursansAnguish $260
12.Pink Mayflower Dress by Sarahseven $195

James Coviello

2009-02-26T17:54:00.007Z

I am enjoying James Coviello's designs of late (pretty adorable website). Coviello, according to his site's bio, attended Parson's School of Design in NYC, leaving in 1987 to design jewelry for Erickson Beamon. His talents then led him to hat making. Establishing a collection that was carried by the likes of Bergdorf Goodman and Neiman Marcus. His hats were soon gracing the runway in big name shows like Calvin Klein.

In 1991 Anna Sui requested a hat. A hat, turned into hats, and hats turned into knitwear, and knitwear turned into the James Coviello for Anna Sui label. The rest has been history for James. He has been showing in Bryant Park since 2000 and his designs can be found all over the world. (Check his site for a more fleshed out Bio).

I found a few of his items on Ebay. Certain to become vintage classics in a few decades. Buy them, wear them, or just put them in your closets for your daughters.

Olive Skirt

Floral Tunic

Only 8.5 Million!

2009-02-25T21:35:00.012Z

On days when I need motivation I cruise the endless lists of heart-breakingly beautiful, antiquity filled properties on Luxuryrealestate.com. Hours of fun I promise. Today I am indulging in a move to Capri. I would not be angry if someone told me I had to move here....

Well, a girl can dream. Until the day you need to wonder where to stable the horses, fix up your own abode with Historic House Parts. This site is a GEM!! It put's Anthropologie's hardware section to shame!

Happy Pankcake Tuesday Everybody !

2009-02-24T15:49:00.000Z

Singing for

2009-02-24T15:45:00.000Z

Pakkanen Duvet cover Marimekko

Words

2009-02-19T17:14:00.001Z

Letters to buy from Patch of the sky at Etsy

Look precious

2009-02-19T17:09:00.002Z

Yasha Butler {$16 per plate }

Personalise your IKEA pieces

2009-02-19T16:18:00.003Z

Recently a friend pointed out that Ikea is so great that too many people love it resulting in too many people having the same pieces and instantly recognizing your shopping sources when they walk into your home. But it might not be the case for long as a niche has been recently emerging with companies developing ways to personalise your ikea pieces. I have previously mentioned Bemz who create sofa covers , today i discovered Grippiks.

Grippiks manufactures stickers pre-cut to fit the precise dimensions of some of IKEA’s most popular items – BILLY, BENNO, EXPEDIT, and EFFEKTIV storage solutions, LACK tables, and MALM drawers. A clever new film is used that grips to surfaces via micro suction, not sticky adhesive. So they can be effortlessly positioned, repositioned, and removed. Simply peel and apply. No bubbles, no sticky residue.

New to town

2009-02-17T14:11:00.004Z

This news definitely deserves a double " oh My God, Oh My God "!Because today it is the most glorious sunny and warm day of the year so far, i decided to venture out and ditch my lunch al desko for a walk around. I stepped into the new Arnotts area on Henry street and was delighted to find a dedicated Paperchase area , so we don't need to go all the way to Blancherdstown, cool stationary has finally arrived into the town. But there is more, you gotta check out the new home department on the second floor, there s so much color it gets your head dizzy and i love it ! Go Go Go !

Spring patterns

2009-02-09T10:55:00.000Z

This new pattern from Sanderson really took my fancy

Polaroid Love

2009-02-08T22:36:00.001Z

I hope you have enough Polaroids to put together this lovely display :)

Violette Valentine

2009-02-05T02:02:00.005Z

With Valentine's Day at our heels consider breaking up with the traditional red and pink palette for a fling with the magnificent modesty of violet (violet flowers surprisingly stand for modesty, though the colour can suggest royalty, intuition, or spiritual protection). I did some pseudo shopping on Polyvore.com for some Valentine's Day indulgences.

Violet Valentine - by Miss Emily Louise on Polyvore.com

If you are of the single nature, consider throwing a violet themed fête with these floral flavoured cocktails I found on The Drink Shop.

Vanilla - Violet Champagne

1 cl Monin Vanilla Syrup
1 cl Monin Violet Syrup
10 cl Champagne
Pour syrups into champagne flute. Slowly add the champagne.
Drop sugar cube into glass. Garnish with violet petal.
Serve immediately.

Violet Martini

1,5 cl Monin Violet Syrup
4,5 cl Vanilla Vodka or Rum
Shake with ice until cold. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
Garnish with violet petals or mint leaves.

Violet Milkshake

2 cl Monin Violet Syrup
10 cl Milk
2 to 8 scoops of Vanilla Ice Cream
Blend and enjoy!

Emily

Have a kissful weekend :)

2009-01-30T14:51:00.001Z

Matthew Alan