Extra(ordinary)

I've Moved

2010-02-19T21:52:00.003-05:00

I am now posting at sundaycollective.blogspot.com.

Google Voice

2009-08-28T12:43:00.004-04:00

Yesterday I signed up for my google voice account. I am not sure if it's something I need, but this YouTube video explains it all.

Umbrella Art Installations

2009-08-27T11:45:00.004-04:00

My friend, EMC, twittered me this link. Very cool.

Supermarket Sarah

2009-08-27T11:41:00.003-04:00

Sarah decided to leave the corporate world behind her and has set up shop in her own home. Her home, round the corner from Portobello Market where she has a stall, is now overflowing with treasures and delights and she welcomes visitors with tea and cakes. Supermarketsarah.com

Art & Copy Trailer

2009-08-26T17:31:00.002-04:00

ART & COPY Trailer from ART & COPY on Vimeo.

ART & COPY is a powerful new film about advertising and inspiration. Directed by Doug Pray (SURFWISE, SCRATCH, HYPE!), it reveals the work and wisdom of some of the most influential advertising creatives of our time — people who've profoundly impacted our culture, yet are virtually unknown outside their industry. Exploding forth from advertising's "creative revolution" of the 1960s, these artists and writers all brought a surprisingly rebellious spirit to their work in a business more often associated with mediocrity or manipulation: George Lois, Mary Wells, Dan Wieden, Lee Clow, Hal Riney and others featured in ART & COPY were responsible for "Just Do It," "I Love NY," "Where's the Beef?," "Got Milk," "Think Different," and brilliant campaigns for everything from cars to presidents. They managed to grab the attention of millions and truly move them. Visually interwoven with their stories, TV satellites are launched, billboards are erected, and the social and cultural impact of their ads are brought to light in this dynamic exploration of art, commerce, and human emotion. Visit artandcopyfilm.org for more information and screenings.

The Story of Charity: Water - The 2009 September Campaign Trailer

2009-08-26T16:22:00.000-04:00

Summer Surf City

2009-08-24T17:51:00.002-04:00

Great fashion/photo essay from this month's issue of Paper magazine. Photographs by Martin Sanmiguel.

Sølve Sundsbø & Surface to Air

2009-08-24T17:41:00.005-04:00

Sølve Sundsbø's lush, otherworldly images aren’t intended for T-shirts. Nonetheless, it works. In what is one of the season’s most interesting collaborations, Mr. Sundsbo, the Norwegian photographer, who has shot ads for Yves Saint Laurent and Dolce & Gabbana and fashion features for Harper’s Bazaar and W, has paired with the creative studio-clothing label Surface to Air on a line of silk tops, dresses and oversize satchels, printed with three of his works. (Via NYT)

Trailer: Where the Wild Things Are

2009-08-24T17:30:00.002-04:00

Spike Jonze is directing this adaptation of Maurice Sendak’s classic children’s book. The movie will be released October 16th, 2009. View the official WTWTA site.

Bodkin

2009-08-24T17:27:00.003-04:00

I am loving Bodkin's website.

Listening to Lifehouse: From Where You Are

2009-08-24T13:11:00.001-04:00

Quote of the Week: Childhood

2009-08-19T16:55:00.003-04:00

Do you remember what it was like to be a child? To have not a care in the world? To be taken care of? Every time I visit my family in New Haven, CT I remember what it's like to be a kid again. I remember playing with all the kids in my neighborhood. We'd all gather early in the morning and play until the street lights came on. Our days were filled with kickball, dodge ball, tag football, baseball, swimming, and manhunt (our version of hide and go seek which lasted for hours on end).

During the summer months I enjoyed visiting with my cousins. We all lived in different cities, so we could only see each other during the summer and on holidays. We'd come up with a master plan so that we could spend the entire summer together. Our parents would drive us from city to city. How fun! I miss those days.

Oh, and money, our primary and only goal for money was to buy candy. We'd all pull our money together to buy as much candy as we could and make a trip to our local drugstore.

One thing I loved most as a child was jigsaw puzzles. Yes, I was(/am) a nerd. I think I want to get back to that. Now, I just have to find a good puzzle.

“The things which the child loves remain in the domain of the heart until old age. The most beautiful thing in life is that our souls remaining over the places where we once enjoyed ourselves” —Kahlil Gibran

“The essence of childhood, of course, is play, which my friends and I did endlessly on streets that we reluctantly shared with traffic.” —Bill Cosby

“Childhood is that wonderful time of life when all you need to do to lose weight is take a bath.” —Richard Zera

Photo from Cookie magazine.

To Gift Peace of Mind

2009-08-19T16:54:00.000-04:00

Love this...
Last November, Bryn, was faced with the challenge of choosing a birthday present for her man. Since he’s been hers for a long time, she tried most of the possible gift categories on him before. What would make him truly happy?

She thought of all the little to-do’s, house annoyances, tasks and errands that pile up and nag him every time they come to mind. She decided to make a list of all those things — and do them. Thereby giving him: Peace Of Mind.

Wonderful! See all the images here.

Lara Stone on Vogue Paris

2009-08-19T16:40:00.004-04:00

Lara Stone of the July issue of The Sartorialist Vogue Paris. This is the one magazine I wish I could subsribe to. Photographed by: Mert Alas & Marcus Piggott. (Via Vain and Vapid)

On the Street... Greene St., New York City

2009-08-19T16:37:00.001-04:00

Loving this look. It's so summer. (Via The Sartorialist)

The Meaning of Life

2009-08-13T12:16:00.003-04:00

Based on the Short Stories of Etgar Keret, and adapted for the screen by Etgar Keret and Director Tatia Rosenthal, $9.99 is a stop motion animated feature which offers slightly less than $10 worth about the meaning of life.

Have you ever wondered "What is the meaning of life? Why do we exist?" The answer to this vexing question is now within your reach! You'll find it in a small yet amazing booklet, which will explain, in easy to follow, simple terms your reason for being! The booklet, printed on the finest paper, contains illuminating, exquisite color pictures, and could be yours for a mere $9.99.

This is the ad that alters the life of the unemployed 28 year old who still lives at home, Dave Peck. In his struggle to share his find with the world, Dave's surreal path crosses with those of his unusual neighbors: an old man and his disgruntled guardian angel, a magician in debt, a bewitching woman who likes her men extra smooth, a broken hearted man who befriends a group of hard partying two inch tall students, and a little boy who sets his piggy bank free. Their stories are woven together, examining the post-modern meaning of hope. Visit www.9dollars99movie.com.

Envelope Book

2009-08-12T16:02:00.004-04:00

Beautiful book from Oh, Hello Friend.

Lemonade

2009-08-11T13:39:00.004-04:00

More than 70,000 advertising professionals have lost their jobs in this “Great Recession.” Lemonade is about what happens when people who were once paid to be creative in advertising are forced to be creative with their own lives. I can't wait to see this. I take that back. I need to see this. (Via SwissMiss)

Quote of the Week: Dance

2009-08-10T14:29:00.005-04:00

While I am not a dancer, I consider dance to be one of my passions in life. I love to watch dance. I always seem to gravitate toward dancers. All my high school friends where dancers and now I have a completely new group of friends that are dancers. I did take a ballet class in high school, I had the shoes, leotard and all (lol). Unfortunately, the class was canceled, but I did complete one course at our local city college that summer. It is a medium of art that I am innately curious about. When I'm out dancing or being silly in the privacy of my own home I find it to be a complete form of inhibition and self expression. Sometimes I'd wish I'd found this passion earlier in life, maybe I'd be a professional dancer. But maybe this is just right for me because I can love it without pressure and boundaries and criticism. Recently, cooking has become a new passion and I'm getting back to the basics as to why I fell in love with art in the first place. I'm thinking about a new project. More details to come. In the meantime, I'll be taking a salsa or hip hop or ballet class in the fall. I can't wait!

“On with the dance! Let joy be unconfined” —Lord Byron

“Dance for yourself, if someone understands good. If not then no matter, go right on doing what you love.” —Anonymous

“To dance is to be out of yourself. Larger, more beautiful, more powerful. This is power, it is glory on earth and it is yours for the taking.”
—Anonymous

“While I dance I cannot judge, I cannot hate, I cannot separate myself from life. I can only be joyful and whole. That is why I dance.”
—Hans Bos

“When you do dance, I wish you a wave o' the sea, that you might ever do nothing but that” —William Shakespeare

And here's a YouTube video. (you may have already seen it) that I find charming and funny.

Photo of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater: rehearsal for “Revelations”.

Fleur Avenue

2009-08-10T12:52:00.004-04:00

Lovely packaging. (Via A Cup of Jo)

Jeana Sohn

2009-08-10T12:30:00.004-04:00

I love this work.

Thomas Paul

2009-08-10T12:20:00.004-04:00

I'm a sucker for bags in all forms and especially love small pouches that hold tiny random things. Love this new set by Thomas Paul... simple, whimsical, and clever. (Via Oh Joy!)

Vincent Laforet

2009-08-10T11:48:00.006-04:00

This past Friday night I went to a friend's going away party at The Diamond bar in Brooklyn. There was a photograph I fell in love with. Turns out the photographer was Vincent Laforet, whose work I'd seen in New York magazine. Check out his website. Amazing stuff!

Sweetest Note Ever

2009-08-07T16:24:00.003-04:00

"Every time I see you I find myself, later in the day, thinking who is she, what magic is she. I want to know. And you to I?" From Megan McIsaac's Flickr Photostream. (Via English Muse)

I Want To Go Here!

2009-08-06T15:00:00.008-04:00

This is the Kuroshio Sea tank which is second largest aquarium tank in the world. And I love the song: Please Don't Go by Barcelona.
(Via Put It On Your Kite)

Colorstrology

2009-08-06T14:50:00.000-04:00

Hey baby... what's your sign? Your "colorstrology" sign, that is?...
Don't know. Click on your birth month, and then birth day, to find out!

Here's mine:
YOUR ability to see things that others often can't is quite extraordinary. You are a builder and an architect. Whether you are designing a floor plan or brainstorming conceptual ideas, you are capable of envisioning things before they even exist. Colorful and unique, you like to do things your way. There are times, however, that you need to leave room for the opinions of others. Your personal color encourages you to build your dreams. Wearing, meditating or surrounding yourself with the color Cognac helps you connect with the seemingly impossible and partake in the creation of beauty. (Via The Scoop)

Sophie Blackall's Missed Connections

2009-08-05T12:36:00.004-04:00

Check out Sophie's illustrations of the online "missed connections" ads. I see a book in the making.

DIY Project: Quick and Easy Soap Dispenser

2009-08-05T12:30:00.000-04:00

It's all in the details. Click here for instructions. (Via Design*Sponge)

Chris Santiago Ft. Morgan - The Start

2009-08-05T12:28:00.000-04:00

Awesome song!

So You Think You Can Dance

2009-08-03T16:23:00.002-04:00

Here are two of my favorite performances from last season.

Quote of the Week: Being a Woman

2009-08-03T15:23:00.008-04:00

Recently, I was asked, "What do I enjoy about being a woman?" I think women have the luxury to express emotion. We can be nurturing, caring, intimate, sensitive, rational and even irrational. We can be strong and independent, but also needy and questionable. We can enjoy fashion, wear heels, and play with makeup. But, I guess the best attribute is being able to have children.

In my personal experience being a girl was a blessing and a curse coming from my African American-Christian-Southern family. Plus, I was the only girl: my father's only daughter, my grandfather's only granddaughter, the only niece... I had no one the share that weight with. Yes, I was spoiled, but with that came expectations and double standards. In my early years, I thought that the only way to be a woman was to be a lady. To me, to be lady means being respectful, polite and nice (I'm sure I could use more of those qualities). But also never to question authority or society. To sit quietly in a dainty, pretty floral dress. And to have long, flowing hair. Yes, there was a saying, "Your hair is your crowning glory." Now, you know why I have short, curly hair and why you've probably never seen me in floral anything. Don't get me wrong, I had a great childhood and I love my family and that I'm from the South. I guess I am just a work in progress. I'm finally figuring out this makeup thing and have discovered the wonderful world of hair accessories. Maybe that just makes me a late-bloomer, which I kind of like. Maybe it just means that I need to do things in my own time. Isn't that the same for all of us? Then why (as women) do we give each other such a hard time (at work and in social settings)? And I have been on both sides of the spectrum. I now know that there are many ways to be woman and that's for each of us to decide for ourselves and for our friends and relatives to accept those definitions. Thanks for reading.

"To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment."
—Ralph Waldo Emerson

"We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars."
—Oscar Wilde (Lady Windermere's Fan)

"For most of history, Anonymous was a woman." —Virginia Woolf

"If a woman is sufficiently ambitious, determined and gifted –there is practically nothing she can't do." —Helen Law

The desktop wallerpaper (above) by Deanne Cheuk is available for download via Design*Sponge.

Cupcake Party Invitations

2009-07-31T15:01:00.002-04:00

Adorable!

Great Gift Idea

2009-07-31T14:55:00.003-04:00

DIY gift bag filled with goodies. For instructions see Brooke's full post.

Everyday Favorite Supplies

2009-07-30T14:16:00.004-04:00

This post is from Suann via Black*Eiffel (click here to see list and prices).

Forever

2009-07-29T13:04:00.000-04:00

Maybe most of you saw this already this weekend- but just had to post it!

Sneak Peek: Elisabeth Dunker

2009-07-29T12:58:00.001-04:00

See more at Design *Sponge. Love!

Quote of the Week

2009-07-29T12:54:00.001-04:00

Today, I am grateful for beauty and love, for surprises and excitement, and for friendship. I am grateful for my present circumstances, for I know they offer opportunities for growth. This past week in L.A. was amazing. Mostly, I was reminded to dream and to work to make those dreams come true.

"Happy are those who dream dreams and are ready to pay the price to make them come true." — Leon J. Suenes

Pacific

2009-07-20T17:27:00.001-04:00

Pacific, originally uploaded by feaverish.

"I to the world am like a drop of water
That in the ocean seeks another drop,
Who, falling there to find his fellow forth,
Unseen, inquisitive, confounds himself."
—William Shakespeare

I'm off to L.A. tomorrow. Enjoy.

Eric Fischl: Beach Paintings

2009-07-16T15:52:00.003-04:00

... on my book wish list.

California. Away We Go.

2009-07-15T15:23:00.004-04:00

Love these postcard sets of all my favorite places. (Via Oh Joy)

Love, Summer Of.

2009-07-14T11:39:00.002-04:00

This tote is so me. Heart.

Quote of the Week: Summer

2009-07-13T18:02:00.002-04:00

Originally uploaded by yosigo!!!.

I love all things summer: the beach, the sun, the ocean, sand, even the smell of sunblock. I must have been a surfer or a beach bum in a past life. Have an easy breezy week.

"Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under the trees on a summer's day, listening to the murmur of water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time." —John Lubbock

"Summer afternoon, summer afternoon: to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language." —Henry James

Woods & Weather

2009-07-10T17:11:00.001-04:00

I'm admiring work from this guy.

Bliss Lau's Chain Gang

2009-07-10T16:04:00.004-04:00

I'm enamored with Bliss Lau's new jewelry collection.

Dreamgirl

2009-07-10T15:53:00.003-04:00

I love these photos of Kate Moss. W magazine, June 2007. Photographed by Ryan McGinely.

Fringe Alchemy Soap

2009-07-09T17:04:00.004-04:00

These soaps are packaged beautifully. They're even better in person - the paper has this amazing texture with hints of metallic accents. They smell great, too. Love. (Via Mika78)

Amy Romper

2009-07-08T13:03:00.004-04:00

I've been looking for the perfect romper... I love this one from Steven Alan. Score.

500 Pieces of Prudent Advice for My Baby Daughter

2009-07-08T12:11:00.011-04:00

Lately I've been reading Jaime's blog. Though I am 27 I find her posts useful. Some are things I will integrate into my life like #116: At the close of each day, fill your head with thoughts of how lucky you are. Some things I'm proud that I'm doing, for example #161: Live alone for a period of time. And some are things I would like to share with my daughter one day like #154: You can talk to me about sex. And I love the art and quotes that are mixed in. Here is one quote that I saved from post #2: Try to know what is bubbling around inside your heart.

Your heart is a great river after a long spell of rain, spilling over its banks. All signposts that once stood on the ground are gone, inundated and carried away by that rush of water. And still the rain beats down on the surface of the river. Every time you see a flood like that on the news you tell yourself: That's it. That's my heart. —Kafka on the Shore, Haruki Murakami

If were to offer anything, I'd say that it's okay sometimes to not know who you are. Life will bring challenges to question your beliefs and values and it's okay to defer, to surrender, to change, to progress, to digress. In the end if you have grown, then you have lived.
Artwork: Proteus 1984. Cy Twombly.

Paris Tape

2009-07-07T17:23:00.003-04:00

Love this transparent tape from Lazy Oaf.

Quote of the Week

2009-07-07T16:08:00.003-04:00

Originally uploaded by Emma Über.

I am currently reading Rilke on Love and Other Difficulties by German poet Rainer Maria Rilke. This is my second time around and there’s still so much to digest. Here are three Rilke quotes that seem most relevant to me at the present moment:

“It is not inertia alone that is responsible for human relationships repeating themselves from case to case, indescribably monotonous and unrenewed: it is shyness before any sort of new, unforeseeable experience with which one does not think oneself able to cope. But only someone who is ready for everything, who excludes nothing, not even the most enigmatical will live the relation to another as something alive.” Yes, Rilke is talking about human relationships, but oftentimes, my relationships with others can be as muddled and confusing, as painful and joyful, as my relationship with my self. With everything that happens or doesn’t happen, I cope again and again. Each time I see more of myself. I may be shy and wide-eyed, a little fearful, a little unsure, but I survive, I grow, I strengthen, I love. I embrace and I let go. I refuse inertia—and, in doing so, I think I may have found my best and most fulfilling relationship yet.

“Perhaps all the dragons in our lives are princesses who are only waiting to see us act, just once, with beauty and courage. Perhaps everything that frightens us is, in its deepest essence, something helpless that wants our love.” I’m not sure what frightens me, or maybe I do and don’t want to confront it. This is a scary thing... maybe one day I will have the courage to do this.

“Be patient toward all that is unsolved in your heart and try to love the questions themselves, like locked rooms and like books that are now written in a very foreign tongue. Do not now seek the answers, which cannot be given you because you would not be able to live them. And the point is, to live everything. Live the questions now. Perhaps you will then gradually, without noticing it, live along some distant day into the answer.” This is a guide to how I want to be. I want to remember in moments when I’m caught up in the details of not knowing what and when and why and how that I need to go back to the notion of trying to live in the unknown—and that, in fact, hopefully will lead to the answer.

Missing Domino

2009-07-06T14:53:00.005-04:00

Last week, I received my first issue of Glamour the offical replacement of Domino. Sad face. I'm glad that English Muse is posting Domino favorites from the past. Pictured is Carolina Jr.'s Madrid apartment from the premiere issue, Spring/Summer 2005.

Downtown Cool

2009-07-06T13:37:00.007-04:00

I would define my style as easy breezy and California cool. Now, I'm craving a bit of rock star glam. If I could I would wear flip flops and tanks everyday, but all of a sudden I think I'm channeling M.J. I am loving anything shiny with sequins, beads, studs and of course black. And if I could I would purchase Erin Kleinberg's entire fall 2009 collection. It's the ultimate mix of luxury and comfort. Rock on!

Have a Great Weekend!

2009-07-02T17:03:00.002-04:00

Happy 4th! Photo by Cari Ann Wayman.

The Essence of Summer

2009-07-02T15:40:00.004-04:00

Beautiful photos from The Sartorialist.

I tried to explain that if they want to become a fashion designer they should try to take photos that will inspire a certain feeling of a season, or a gesture, or a mood. The pictures that I took above are, to me, the essence of Summer. If I was a designer I would look at photos like this at the beginning of the spring design season, just to remember what it is that everyone loves about the sun, warmth, and vacation. —Scott Schuman

Vintage Style

2009-07-02T15:23:00.005-04:00

I'm loving these vintage inspired pieces from Kristina Franco's Etsy shop, Allen Company Inc.

DIY Project: Bridesmaid Gift Spruce-up

2009-07-02T15:13:00.004-04:00

I'm always looking for neat ways to dress gifts. Here's an idea from Ellie Snow. (Via Design Sponge)

The Science of Sleep

2009-07-02T15:03:00.005-04:00

In Prelude to a Kiss Meg Ryan admits that she has a terrible memory and insomnia. Well, so do I. Perhaps this is a solution to restless nights, Zeo Personal Sleep Coach. Developed by scientists, the product tracks, analyzes, and guides you to blissful nights of zzz’s. Here’s how it works: Before bed, put on the jazzy headband that records patterns using sensor technology. In the morning, check out the bedside display, which is connected to the headband wirelessly and evaluates your REM, light, and deep sleep. Then head to the website, which recommends techniques, tools, and tips based on your personal data to address the things affecting your rest. Soon enough you’ll be jumping over rainbows on the back of a unicorn while making sweet love to Edward Cullen. (Via Daily Candy)

Map It Out

2009-06-30T16:26:00.006-04:00

This Wednesday, just in time for our favorite patriotic holiday, Maptote's new USA bag will be available on Target's Red Hot Shop website. The double-sided tote features the East Coast on one side and the West Coast on the other, with graphic, screen-printed drawings of major cities and landmarks in between (Las Vegas, for example, is denoted by a slot machine and Georgia is a ripe peach). The bag, the newest in the Maptote series, is made by Brooklyn-based designers Rachel Rheingold and Michael Berick, who have combined their love of fashion and cartography. The dark-denim-and-red-ink combo has a summery-cool look, and the tote is a great replacement for those bland beige bags you've been using for groceries.

Available starting July 1 for $24.99 at Target.com.
(Via New York Magazine)

Absolutely Awesome Baby Announcements

2009-06-30T16:21:00.001-04:00

The announcement was designed by the parents, Tosh and Victoria Brown, and letterpress printed in four spot colors on Crane Lettra paper by The Mandate Press. The overall design kind of reminds me of The Royal Tennenbaums, don't you think? Either way, I just love the simple, yet completely non-traditional and unique, design of this baby announcement.

Check out more photos over on The Mandate Press flickr stream - the good folks over at The Mandate Press also recently launched a new website where you can find a lot more of their fabulous work, check it out right here! (Via Oh So Beautiful Paper)

Christopher Deane

2009-06-30T13:07:00.004-04:00

Cute dresses from Christopher Deane.

Le Smoking

2009-06-30T12:17:00.006-04:00

If I promoted smoking... (Via ar+iculate)

Cover Inspiration

2009-06-30T11:39:00.002-04:00

Gorgeous vintage patterned covers from Insel Verlag.
(Via Design Work Life)

Wired

2009-06-30T11:36:00.004-04:00

Love this... wire storage collection at West Elm. The little pencil pail is $10, the waste bin is $29, and the magazine basket is $49.
(Via Design Sponge)

Quote of the Week

2009-06-30T11:19:00.004-04:00

There are two things on my mind. First, the unexpected and sudden death of Michael Jackson. As a little girl I loved Michael Jackson. My parents can attest to this. My mom says I'd run to the TV whenever M.J. was on. To me he was magic. When I was old enough to have my own stereo, my dad who is a music aficionado, purchased my first cd, which was "Bad". To be honest, I don't care one bit about his controversial life. To me it's all speculation. "Before you judge me, try hard to love me" are lyrics from a song called "Childhood". I think this is something everyone wants. He had a difficult life. Let's let him rest in peace.

Second, today is my dad's birthday. He is probably one of this most selfless people I know. I like this quote for him. "The really important kind of freedom involves attention, and awareness, and discipline, and effort, and being able truly to care about other people and to sacrifice for them, over and over, in myriad petty little unsexy ways, every day." —David Foster Wallace

Sonia Delaunay

2009-06-29T15:52:00.005-04:00

Right now I'm inspired by Sonia Delaunay's textile designs. See more at At Swim-Two-Birds.

Little Gold Letter

2009-06-29T15:31:00.000-04:00

I usually not into monogram jewelry, but I absolutely love these initial and number necklaces by Albeit. Made of 14K gold, each piece is delicate and subtle and perfect for wearing everyday. (Via Oh Joy)

Currently Listening To: Taylor Swift

2009-06-29T14:48:00.001-04:00

I love her reaction at the end... endearing.

For 2009, Idea Subscription

2009-06-29T12:41:00.000-04:00

This is a great concept. For all of 2009 David Horvitz will send out small texts of simple instructional ideas through a mailing list to which you can subscribe. He will also post screenshots of them on his tumblr page. He will does not do this everyday, only when he feels like it and has access to the internet. But he wil attempt to do them everyday. You can also receive these in the postal mail.

2009-06-29T12:38:00.004-04:00

This post is from Vic. I relate so much:
I am feeling a little lost for inspiration at the moment. Or maybe a little lost in general. Things are changing, always changing. I am about to turn 28 and I have no idea where I’m going or what I’m doing. And this is fine, of course. In fact, sometimes it’s great and I wouldn’t want it any other way. But there are moments when I think about the strange order in which I do things, in which I’ve done things, and I wonder how it got like this. How did we get here? And I don’t mean just you and I, I mean everyone. How did you get here? What are you doing?
But then I look at this photo of Oprah and I realise that everything is going to be ok. It has to be. After all, this is all there is.

Bumblesea

2009-06-26T16:46:00.004-04:00

Sigh. This is so me. Jewelry from Bumblesea. (Via Mint)

Scrapbook Style

2009-06-26T16:39:00.000-04:00

These beautiful pages by Kelly make me want to start scrapbooking. (Via SeeSaw Designs)

Seersucker Fabric and Letterpressed Invites

2009-06-26T16:36:00.004-04:00

I just cannot stop staring at these gorgeous letterpress wedding invitations, designed by the ladies at Ice Cream Social.
(Via Oh So Beautiful Paper)

J'Adore California

2009-06-26T12:22:00.003-04:00

I heart this t-shirt from Wildfox.

How I'd Wear It

2009-06-26T11:57:00.005-04:00

I love this idea... Roberta Jane of Camp Comfort asked several bloggers to create outfits based on a pair of denim shorts. The series is called "How I'd Wear It". It's interesting to see how each person interpreted the same item of clothing. The top image is from Amy of An Apple A Day! and the bottom is from Afton of Freckle Farm.

RIP Michael Jackson

2009-06-25T18:55:00.004-04:00

My first ever CD was Michael Jackson's Bad. It's hard to believe that he's really passed. Here's a post from January 22, 2009 that I wrote:
Last night I started making a mixed CD. I kinda went a little overboard on Limewire... I started with Alicia Keys, then Lauren Hill, which lead to some oldies like Otis Redding and Tina Turner. Of course my brother had to join in and we started looking at vintage video footage like James Brown circa 1976. (Did you know that James Brown is my grandmother's half brother? Of course they were never close. My grandmother says she couldn't stand him.) My first CD ever was Michael Jackson's Bad. What can I say? Who didn't love Michael? I remember he had a concert and my parents wouldn't let me stay up to watch. I must've been like 4. I did sneak out of bed and they eventually gave in and let me watch. This link takes you to the Motown 25 concert, I don't think I saw this one because I would've been only 1 years old, but for some reason this performance sticks out.

Madewell

2009-06-25T18:00:00.000-04:00

I am loving everything about Madewell's website. It is clean and simple with wonderfully styled photographs. Be sure to check out the denim fit guide and the calendar jam-packed with tips, events and facts for every day of the month.

Succulent Love Designs

2009-06-25T17:45:00.004-04:00

Kelly just launched a new business, Succulent Love Designs. I was never crazy about succulents, but now I am.

Nivea Made Chic

2009-06-25T17:37:00.005-04:00

I love these Nieva ads from Italian Vogue. Who knew a face cream could be so glamourous? (Via The English Muse)

Land and Sea

2009-06-25T14:46:00.006-04:00

I really want these prints from the Aperture Foundation. The first print is "Reservoir, 2007" (from the series Limbo) by Hector Mata. The second is "On The Beach" photographed by Richard Misrach, but alas it's sold out.

Tie-pography

2009-06-23T15:20:00.006-04:00

Created by Ed Nacional. "Display typeface constructed from a personal tie collection. A large amount of the collection was acquired from my dad, the rest bought at flea markets, thrift stores with a few brand new purchases sprinkled throughout. I hope to soon extend this project to add alternates, numbers and ligatures as the collection grows."

The Girl Effect

2009-06-22T15:01:00.002-04:00

An amazing use of animated sans serif type! Also (and more importantly) a thought-provoking piece about the profound impact that modest investments in the lives of girls and women can have on world hunger, poverty, social injustice, war, etc. Check it out!

Beauchamping

2009-06-22T14:52:00.004-04:00

I really like these prints by Gregory from Venice, CA. Check out the yeti! He uses xylene transfers to make his prints, which is “like a screenprint, but without the screen, and the artwork is hand-transferred inch by inch over a long hour.”

You can check out his etsy shop here to buy one for me! (Via OK Great)

Yellow and Khaki

2009-06-22T14:37:00.005-04:00

I've been enjoying this color combination lately.
1. Rifferaff
2. Up in the air somewhere
3. Carta, Inc.
(Via Rifferaff)

Danish Modern

2009-06-18T11:49:00.003-04:00

Dansk's teak-handled stainless steel flatware, introduced in the '50s, anticipated today's fondness for simple lines and natural materials. It's back, as understated as ever. (From O magazine)

Checkbook

2009-06-18T11:37:00.003-04:00

This floral scalloped-suede checkbook cover is danity, sweet, and completely appealing. I so want one.

Hansel & Gretel Ad

2009-06-17T14:10:00.004-04:00

I saw this AT&T ad with Hansel and Gretel the other day and thought it was adorable, it made me smile. Created by BBDO. (Via Black*Eiffel)

Treasures

2009-06-17T13:14:00.005-04:00

This set of photographs called "Things Worth Knowing" by Sivan Lewin reminds me of that scene in Amélie when she opens the little tin of treasures found behind the tile in the bathroom. Enchanting.
(Via English Muse)

New from ban.do!

2009-06-17T13:03:00.004-04:00

Check out these yummy corsages from Ban.do. They also have an adorable new line of collars! (Via Frolic)

Home Inspiration: Gallery Wall

2009-06-16T20:51:00.005-04:00

I really like this idea.

I've always wanted to create a gallery wall at home, but I get overwhelmed by the prospect of picking out all the frames. Jorey Hurley had a genius idea: She made a simple grid of 4" x 6" Ikea clip frames featuring all her favorite family snapshots. I can do that!
(Via A Cup of Jo)

Jill and Matt Invite

2009-06-16T16:07:00.004-04:00

My friend emailed this invite to me. Heart! (Via Design*Sponge)

Quote of the Week

2009-06-15T20:48:00.004-04:00

I am not a patient person. I want to do and know everything right now. And the hustle and bustle lifestyle of New York doesn't help. The rhythm and fast pace becomes second nature. I realize this every time I go home to Chattanooga. There, no one is in a hurry. My mom always complains that I walk too fast. It's funny, isn't it. But, for the first time in a long time, I didn't do anything, I don't even think I changed out of my pajamas. Sometimes we need those days to regroup and gather ourselves.

"Be patient. You'll know when it's time for you to wake up and move ahead." —Ram Dass

"You do not need to leave your room. Remain sitting at your table and listen. Do not even listen, simply wait. Do not even wait, be quite still and solitary. The world will freely offer itself to you to be unmasked, it has no choice, it will roll in ecstasy at your feet." —Franz Kafka

Photograph by Cameron Gardner via The Photographic Dictionary.

Isabel Toledo

2009-06-15T13:13:00.004-04:00

The Isabel Toledo exhibition at the Museum at FIT opens on June 17.

The ads are by Nordstrom and they're awesome. Photography by Ruven Afanador. Typography by Isabel's husband, Ruben Toledo. And designs by Isabel, who is featured in the top photo. The gorgeous Crystal Renn is in the second photo followed by Alek Wek and Carmen Dell'Orefice. (Via English Muse... my new favorite blog)

Girl Crush

2009-06-15T12:36:00.005-04:00

Right now I am loving everything about stylist/photographer Jen Gotch, her photographs, her beautiful line of embellished headbands, and even her website.

Helena's NYC Apt.

2009-06-13T23:13:00.006-04:00

The New York City apartment of Helena Christensen in last month's Paris Vogue made my jaw drop. It's such a perfect blend of masculine and feminine. I didn't purchase the issue (gasp!), for $15 I just couldn't. Thankfully, I found the photos on Destined to Design.

Notte Sento

2009-06-13T21:53:00.006-04:00

This video does remind me a little of my stay in a Florence. Trains, guy on motorcycle, summer nights, well, they go perfectly together and this video gives me the chills. And yes, something like this can happen to you. BTW, the film is actually made from 4,500 still photographs (brilliant!). (Via M.A. Belle)

Undercurrent

2009-06-13T20:49:00.003-04:00

Last Thursday, I got to see my friend perform with the Amanda Selwyn Dance Theatre. The show was amazing. From the lighting and costumes to the music and even the props, everything was brilliant. And I love the concept of using water as inspiration.

Here's a bit from the program:
Just as water must be able to express its true nature in a relentless way, so too must we simultaneously and relentlessly express our true natures if we are to be successful in life. Otherwise, we find ourselves hemmed in by the hard walls of reality, and we will never be able to break through.

But how do we acquire perseverance. We start small. As drops.
—Deng Ming-Dao

Renegade Craft Fair

2009-06-10T18:40:00.004-04:00

This past weekend I went to the Renegade Craft Fair in Brooklyn. Here are some pieces that are still on my mind:
1. Gold Lip Platter from Up in the Air Somewhere.
2. 2-Layer Twist Ring by Nervous System.
3. Faceted Wooden Rocks (in white) by Kindling.

Ruche

2009-06-08T15:08:00.003-04:00

Happy (and affordable) summer tops & dresses from Ruche. (Via SeeSaw Designs)

Quote of the Week

2009-06-08T14:40:00.002-04:00

This past weekend I went to see "Picasso: Mosqueteros" at the Gagosian Gallery. This masterful show reminded me of why I fell in love with art. As a child I didn't care how good something was or if it had meaning. I just loved playing with colors. It was fun. Pure creativity. Unedited. I was a genius. I believe, we start off as geniuses. We are like a mold of clay, except we are already perfect. Along the way situations, people... they chisel away at you. You change. And you forget. But, now I remember. I think today, I will pick up a brush, mix some paint and just have fun.

“It took me four years to paint like Raphael, but a lifetime to paint like a child.” —Pablo Picasso

Live What You Love

2009-06-01T17:30:00.003-04:00

I needed this today. Print is available at Hijirik Studio.