All the Best for 2013!

This year has just breezed on by. It was a fun one with tons of learning experiences and I'm so excited for 2013. Of course, my passion for interior design will continue to grow and I've been brainstorming some new ideas for the blog so stay tuned. I'll leave you with this insightful post via The Simply Luxurious Life on turning your goals to reality. Jump on it.

Have a fabulous new year and be sure to have some fun tonight. Cheers!

Photo: Jeffrey Hirsch

Wise Words from Coco Chanel

"In order to be irreplaceable one must always be different." 

- Coco Chanel

I came across this quote from Coco Chanel and couldn't agree more. It makes sense even in terms of blogging. Rather than following what every other blogger is covering, be bold enough to stay true to your passion and those things that you find interesting. You'll always win with this strategy. 

Photo: François Kollar © Ministère de la Culture - France

What I'm Reading

1. Giada De Laurentiis' Website. I happened to meet Food Network star Giada De Laurentiis on the street here in New York the other night (see the pic above), so I decided to check out her website and there's so much to love. It's full of tips on kitchen essentials, food styling, and more.

2. West Elm's Blog. Its 'Guest List' section frequently features candid interviews with lifestyle bloggers. I always discover new blogs just by reading these posts regularly.

3. Newtown News. I feel so sad about the tragedy that took place at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. I can't stop reading the profiles of the victims just trying to make sense of it all. It just doesn't make sense. All those impacted are in my prayers. And if you haven't seen this Wall Street Journal story, give it a read.

Beauty Meets Decor: How to Organize Your Makeup

In addition to being a lover of interior design, I'm very much into staying on top of the latest beauty trends. If Nars launches yet another blush (my favorite is Exhibit A), you better believe I'm all over it. If I meet a friend for dinner and she shows up in a stunning red lipstick, I'm definitely asking about the color. And my Sephora Beauty Insider card is in frequent use. But to keep makeup fun, my stash needs to be organized. To do so, I rely on a few things.

1. Muji Acrylic Case (5 Drawers)

I'm not sure what I'd do without this case. It takes up very little space on my dresser and easily holds everything from my eye pencils to foundation. As you can see, I even use the top of it.

2. Pretty Vases, Cups and Glasses

As you've probably heard from any makeup lover, applying makeup well is about having great brushes.   I use Bdellium brushes, and now have my eye on sets from Sigma and Suqqu. Anyway, to keep them all in one place so I'm not scrambling when getting pretty, I use a number of simple vases and glasses that I've snagged at flea markets and even Target. As my stash multiplies, I'm going to use a Diptyque Baies candle as a holder.

3. A Good Tray Like Design Darling's Aqua Trellis Design

There are some items, like certain eyeshadow palettes, that I don't put in my Muji case for easy access. In those instances, I rest them on a pretty tray. I love this one from Design Darling, and it's only $40. 

Hope this helps. And check out my previous 'Beauty Meets Decor' posts.

Fab Find of the Day: Aerin Artichoke Wine Stopper

This artichoke wine stopper ($75) from Aerin Lauder's home line will put a smile on your face with every pour. It's great for your own bar or even as a hostess gift. I love that it's made of brass, which means it's super durable, and it'll definitely make every wine bottle look way more chic.

Preview of the 2013 Winter Antiques Show in NYC

Once again, New York Magazine Design Editor Wendy Goodman will host the Winter Antiques Show Young Collectors Night event at Park Avenue Armory on Thursday, January 31 from 7 - 9 p.m. in NYC.

The event brings together antiques lovers, including well-known interior designers (think Nate Berkus, Steven Gambrel, Bunny Williams), for a special celebration of the Winter Antiques Show, which runs from January 25 - February 3. It's always a good time. Here's a taste of what you'll see at the show should you decide to attend.

     George III Giltwood Mirrors. c. 1775. 54 1/2 in. h. x 27 in. w. Hyde Park Antiques. 

Keshishian. An Art Deco/Modernist Movement runner made at the Wilton Royal Factory. Wessex, England. Designed by Marion Dorn (1896-1964). Signed: DORN. 15ft 5in x 3ft 5in.

William Zorach (American, 1887-1966). A Beautiful Bush in Bloom. 1912. Watercolor on paper. 8 1/2 x 11 in. Gerald Peters Gallery. 

Triple sliding door wood cabinet. George Nakashima. American. 1968. East Indian laurel. Moderne Gallery. 

     Stack laminated walnut coffee table. Wendell Castle. American. 1977. Moderne Gallery.

6 Christmas and Holiday Wreaths with Tons of Style

A wreath is one of those elements that instantly adds a dose of holiday spirit to a home. Some of us like the simple, traditional style to decorate our front door and others want more of a twist—a ribbon design anyone? Whatever your decorating style, I found six stylish (and affordable) options that are just too hard to pass up.

From left to right: Pepperberry & Pomegranate Wreath, shopterrain.com
Silver Peace Wreath, vivaterra.com
Cream Curved Wood Wreath, target.com
Woodland Winter Wreath, llbean.com
Christmas Ribbon Wreath, kirklands.com
Christmas Tree Wreath, williams-sonoma.com

Decor Inspiration at the American Museum of Natural History?

I'm of the mindset that you can find home decor inspiration just about anywhere you look. This idea was confirmed for me yet again on my recent visit to the American Museum of Natural History with a friend of mine. When I visit a museum, I love to walk through its gift shop to see what goodies I can snag for my pad. At the very least, I just always get inspired with some sort of decorating idea. Here are a few pics from my visit.

I always gravitate towards sparkly things. This huge citrine stone caught my attention. How cool would it be if a smaller piece that you could be used as a desk accessory was for sale? 

This reminded me that flatware doesn't have to be boring. I usually opt for all-silver like most people, but it's way more interesting to have fun with it.

Color is everything even when it comes to packaging. I've always wanted to try these Marcus Samuelsson teas. 

I just had to show you this dinosaur-shaped tree in front of the museum. 

What I'm Reading

The much-talked-about book, Grace: A Memoir, about the life of Vogue Magazine Creative Director Grace Coddington has been really entertaining so far. Her descriptions of interacting with Vogue Editor in Chief Anna Wintour are so good, and reading about her upbringing and time spent modeling reveal how she has managed to become successful in publishing.

Lessons from Madame Chic: 20 Stylish Secrets I Learned While Living in Paris. I've always been obsessed with French culture. And this sentiment has only escalated after my two visits to Paris. If you're all about living simply, but with style, of course, you'll love this book. The author, Jennifer Scott, also has a great blog called The Daily Connoisseur.

The new Billie online magazine from Lili Diallo, a former Domino editor, launched. I can never get enough of seeing how stylish people live.

The Butler's Guide to Running the Home and Other Graces is a must-read because you can't decorate with untidy digs at all. I'll forever be obsessed with tips on keeping a home in order and who's better to dish out advice than a butler, right?

Fab Find of the Day: An Elegant Painting by Liza Matthews

This 'Iris' painting by Liza Matthews is everything. Enough said.

Inside the Home of Marlien Rentmeester

Marlien Rentmeester, the West Coast editor of Lucky magazine, runs this amazing fashion blog called LE CATCH. I'm not kidding when I tell you that I read this blog just about every day. It's really become part of my morning routine. Marlien has a way of finding the most stylish clothes and accessories—both high- and low-end—that you likely haven't seen covered in every fashion magazine or online outlet. And she shares creative ideas on putting outfits together that are always on trend. I really wish she'd right a book or launch a fashion styling business if they're not in the works already. Come to think of it, I remember meeting her at Lucky FABB (Fashion and Beauty Blogger Conference) earlier this year. I know I sound like such a groupie, but if you check the blog you'll see what I mean.

Anyway, her sense of interior design is just as impeccable as her fashion taste. So being the little private investigator that I am (ha), I wanted to read up on Marlien and couldn't have been more excited to discover that Glitter Guide posted a feature on her Los Angeles home. It's absolutely gorgeous. I hope you enjoy the photos as much as I do. 

This is how you mix leopard and denim. 

Look at that mirror. 

The piping on the sofa complements the throw pillows, ottoman, and even the throw on the armrest. It's the little things. 

Black and white = chic.

An airy-feeling bedroom with simple bedding goes a long way. 

That jacket. That pillow. That chevron floor. Those roman shades. In love.

Stripes done right.

All photos by Jessie Webster

Fab Find of the Day: Sequin Apron

See this sequin apron from BarbaraAnne would make me want to whip something up in my kitchen every single day. Soooo good. And it's just $50.

I'm Featured on Interior Designer Robin Baron's Blog, Simplifying Fabulous!

I just realized that I never posted this, but it's never too late, right? I was featured on New York City-based interior designer Robin Baron's blog, Simplifying Fabulous, sharing my decorating secrets and personal passions. It was such a fun interview. Thanks again, Robin.

6 Emerald Home Accessories to Love

It's easy going green, right? As Pantone has named emerald as the go-to color for 2013, I just had to have some fun in pinpointing the most stylish home accessories for you to get a headstart on the trend. Whether you're in the market for a comfy pillow or a chic bowl to add a pop of color to your office desk, it's all right here. Enjoy my finds.

Sheer shawl, target.com; CB2 9 Square Clover 18" Pillow, cb2.com; Chic Shop Small Malachite Bowl, chicshopla.com; Ribbon Stripe Storage Jar, leifshop.com; Green Metallic 12" Handipt Tapers Dinner Candles, colonialcandle.com; Green Leather 2013 Pocket Planner, calendars.com. 

My 10 Fab Decor Holiday Gift Ideas on Have to Have

Have you heard of Have to Have? It's one of few websites that I've experienced that have managed to tastefully add a social aspect to the shopping experience. You can compile lists of your favorite items across the Web and share them with others. I had a little fun on the site this week, and put together a fun round-up of 10 gift ideas for decor addicts. Shop away. I promise they're fab.

*This is a sponsored post. 

Pantone Color of the Year: Emerald

It's always fun to discover Pantone's color of the year, and for 2013, the company says it's all about emerald. It's not my favorite color (I have to be honest) but it is pretty and I'm sure there will be stylish home accessories on the way, which I can never get enough of. Do you like decorating with emerald?

A Taste of Etsy's Holiday Handmade Cavalcade in Brooklyn

On Saturday, I swung by the Etsy Holiday Handmade Cavalcade in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, to check out items from artists that have a unique perspective on everything from clocks to light switches. Especially with the holiday season among us, it's always helpful for me to discover gift ideas that are super special. And Etsy is always one of my go-to websites when it comes to shopping, so I just had to attend this event. Enjoy my pics.

New York Clocks offers battery-operated clocks designed out of boxes, book covers, postcards and tins. Clever, right?

I live for a pretty light switch cover. It's one of the little things that I don't think should be overlooked when decorating a home. I ended up buying these two from Lovely Day Designs for $12 each. 

Pretty bamboo scarves and baby blankets courtesy of Fiber Dance Weaving Studio (sorry the company's website is inactive). Her textiles felt so very soft. 

Fritz & Fraulein iPad and laptop cases made from men's suits at none other than Barneys New York. Although I especially loved the cases, only a certain kind of guy would appreciate accessories like these. You know what I mean.

Restocking Kitchen Essentials

I just gave my kitchen a deep cleaning and naturally am now thinking about snagging a few accessories to jazz up the space a bit. Having a meal on pretty dishes is always a treat and I often check out places like Anthropologie (this photo was taken at a recent press preview) and Fishs Eddy whenever I can. Where do you find your kitchen essentials?

Decorating Inspiration's Everywhere

Have you ever felt a little bit stumped when it comes to home decorating? That's how I'm feeling now with my pad. We all have never-ending lists upon lists of decorating projects we would like to tackle such as snagging new curtains, finding the perfect coffee table, painting your kitchen, and so on. Whatever it is, sometimes you just need to take a step back and relax to reconnect with your decorating style.

I did just that last night and decided to browse through old vacation photos for some inspiration. I snapped this gorgeous photo in Costa Rica a few years ago and had a relaxing time in this outdoor jacuzzi. I honestly didn't want to leave this place. And I can remember reading about three books on this trip. Sometimes you just need a lazy vacation, right? Now back to decorating thoughts...

Birchbox Home Package: My Favorites

I was lucky enough to receive one of the special edition Birchbox Home packages and I couldn't be happier. The box is filled with a ton of home goodies like recipe cards from Paperless Post, Core Home bamboo kitchen utensils, and more. Here's a list of my favorite items in the box, and be sure to get your own now while supplies last. You won't be disappointed. And while you're over on Birchbox, check out my latest blog posts on the site. I started sharing some decor tips on the blog that have a fun beauty twist. Hope you like them.

Antica Farmacista Prosecco Home Ambiane Fragrance: My bathroom smells divine all because of this.

Birchbox Cocktail Napkins: The brown and white herringbone pattern of these napkins is oh so chic.

Birchbox Recipe Cards (set of 12): I'm not one to write recipes down, as I'd rather just check out a beautifully crafted cookbook, but these cards are too cute for me not to do so.

Core Bamboo Paris Utensil Set (set of 3): Bamboo utensils with pops of green, yellow and orange make cooking way more fun.

Sabatino & Co Roma Truffle and Sicilian Sea Salt: I'm going to whip up some potatoes and scrambled eggs and top them off with a dash of this goodness.

Paperless Post Greeting Cards: I love sending holiday cards and these are perfect. How fun is the one that reads, 'Love, Laughter Egg Nog?'

Jonathan Adler Playing Cards: There would be no need to store these cards after a good game. They're pretty enough to set on the coffee table year-round.

Happy Thanksgiving!

As I'm in the process of making candied yams (so yummy), I just wanted to take a moment to say Happy Thanksgiving. There's so, so much to be thankful for and today's the perfect day to really pause and reflect on those things...along with stuffing our faces. Enjoy!

Photo: Maura McEvoy

Caribbean Decorating Inspiration

There's nothing like taking a vacation (hopefully with someone you like or love) to feel rejuvenated. That's just what I did over the past few days in St. Maarten and Anguilla. They're such beautiful islands with some of the most gorgeous beaches I've ever seen in my life. I'm not kidding. It's funny how simply enjoying nature can make you feel relaxed as ever. I feel amazing. Enjoy a few pics I snapped and go ahead and plan your next vacation, too.

Waking up to this view every day from my room at the Westin in St. Maarten was pretty surreal. Doesn't this picture look like a postcard? I was in heaven.

The Oasis restaurant in St. Maarten had some tasty pastries, but the decor was amazing as well. I love the weathered look of the benches and the bright green walls. 

The restaurant's entrance was also inviting. I never really think of purple and green complementing each other, but they sure do.

I've never been big on feathers. However, these lights are such a cute concept. Spotted at a cosmetics shop in St. Maarten called Vanity First.

 I can't remember the name of this beach in Anguilla, but it was just stunning. First of all, there were only about four other people on the entire beach. And to top it off, it was super clean with the most blue water you'll probably ever witness. After snapping this photo, I was brought back to my love of the color yellow like those pretty umbrellas. And that pina colada was soooooo yummy with all kinds of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, etc. I could have had 10 without any issues.

Check Me Out on Home Rehab

I just started contributing decorating articles to a new website called Home Rehab, which is affiliated with Home Depot. Be sure to follow my tips. My first article's called "No-Stress Decorating Ideas for Halloween and Beyond."

Thinking Of Hurricane Sandy Victims

I'm thinking of all those affected by Hurricane Sandy. Learning about the stories of people who have lost homes and even their lives to the disaster is absolutely heartbreaking. I can't get over this New York Times story. Disasters like this really make you appreciate life so much more and cherish the moments you have with those you love. 

Photo: Country Living

West Elm Market Opens in Brooklyn on Thursday...Run!

West Elm Market opens in Brooklyn's Dumbo neighborhood (50 Washington Street) on Thursday, and shoppers are definitely in for a treat. I had the chance to attend the preview party this evening and found it to be just a bit more trendy than the typical West Elm stores. The focus, of course, is still on great design, but the idea is to cater to customers' needs when it comes to gardening, laundry, cooking, and just some of the other ordinary tasks required to keep a home in order. 

Many of the vendors are Brooklyn-based, too. I spotted pots from Brooklyn Coppersmiths, cleaning products from Common Good, the prettiest soaps from Meow Meow Tweet and candles from Apotheke (which I also just discovered at Brooklyn Flea recently). And if that's not enough, West Elm Market will host classes. I noticed that the schedule already includes Clothing Quick Fixes and Knife Skills. There's also a coffee bar if you need a little treat while shopping. 

If you live in the area, be sure to check it out. The hours are Monday - Saturday, 7 a.m. - 9 p.m., and Sunday, 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. And if you live outside of the NYC-area, not to worry because westelm.com will also carry products from West Elm Market. Enjoy my pics. 

I'm going to need one of those laundry bags.

Yes, whisks and rolling pins can be pretty. 

Now how adorable are these aprons? 

More kitchen accessories to love.