Category: Gather
Pinterest Style, Translated
| April 17, 2012 | Posted by Nicole L. under accessories, clothing, fashion, Guest Bloggers, Inspiration |
Let’s talk about the phenomenon that is Pinterest.
Still in it’s beta-phase, Pinterest is a global, online pinboard. Much like other social media platforms, you acquire followers and follow others. Pinterest users share and “re-pin” photos of hair and makeup styles, repurposed wedding centerpieces, yummy nacho platters and – of course – lustworthy fashion.
However, because of the inherently conceptual nature of pinboards in general, the fashion that ends up on Pinterest doesn’t always translate directly into the every day world. Some of us just want to incorporate a little style into our look without being mistaken for fashion blogger.
Between the skirt and Peter Pan collar, Alexa Chung (see below) has created a quirky and whimsical look. Unfortunately, it’s not an ensemble that most of us could wear and still be taken seriously. So I’ve taken her look and translated it into something you could wear in your real life.
A few items of note:
- Avoid skirts that look as if they could also be cafe curtains; opt for a bolder floral instead
- When pairing a sweater with a skirt, go for a fitted look
- Bows on shoes are tricky, wear with caution
- Always wear a sleeveless blouse under a sweater
Shopping credits: sweater – J. Crew, blouse – Boy, skirt – Oasis, bag – R&Em, shoes – Cole Haan.
Nicole Longstreath is a wardrobe coach in Orange County, CA and author of Reclaiming Your Wardrobe, an ebook dedicated to building a smarter wardrobe. She is also hosting a free event on May 1st. Come out to learn her priceless wardrobe secrets, including: how to organize your closet, maximizing your existing wardrobe and a daily outfit formula. Click here to register!
Art Inspired Fashion
| April 10, 2012 | Posted by Nicole L. under accessories, clothing, fashion, Guest Bloggers |
This is going to sound weird, but – I just started watching Mad Men. It’s possible that I’ve put off seeing this show because I knew I’d fall for it immediately. And, of course, I did.
Yes, yes – I know; way late to this party.
So forgive my shiny, new infatuation with a show that’s well past the honeymoon period with it’s viewers. I simply can’t help it: Jon Hamm, Christina Hendricks’ gorgeous face, period interiors – the clothing – Jon Hamm. It’s all soooo dreamy and soothing to look at.
However, it’s the period color schemes which appeal to me most. Muted and gray pastels, ruddy browns, a rainbow of vibrant greens and blues. A clever palette for a clever time.
Here is my fashionably late ode to Man Men, as inspired by artist Luli Sanchez’s textile designs.
Oh, P.S. – note there is a bit of a fashion faux pas in this collage. Usually not a good idea to wear trousers with shoes that are open-heel. The bottom of the pant leg will end up under your heel, and that’s not a good look. I just couldn’t resist these shoes because of their beautiful dark caramel color.
Shopping credits: jacket – Alexander McQueen, t-shirt – Kain, earrings – Aurelie Bidermann, trousers – Chloe, shoes – Marni, clutch – Alexander McQueen.
Nicole Longstreath is a wardrobe coach in Orange County, CA and author of Reclaiming Your Wardrobe, an ebook dedicated to building a smarter wardrobe. She is also hosting a free event on May 1st. Come out to learn her priceless wardrobe secrets, including: how to organize your closet, maximizing your existing wardrobe and a daily outfit formula. Click here to register!
DIY: Easy Easter Entertaining
| April 5, 2012 | Posted by Elissa C. under accessories, Celebrate, cooking, do-it-yourself, Eat, food, Gather, Guest Bloggers, holidays, interiors, living room, Outdoors, plants and gardens, Projects, Seasonal |
"Dining with one's friends and beloved family is certainly one of life's primal and most innocent delights, one that is both soul-satisfying and eternal." - Julia Child
I got a text message from my sister last week asking me about our plans for Easter. We don’t have children so the holidays usually sneak up on me. I decided to jump on the internet for a bit and try to find some easy and cute ideas that I could use at our celebration this year. Since the nieces and nephews are sure to get their fair share of sugary sweets from the Easter Bunny, I thought I could find a few ideas that would be unique enough to stand alone.
My hands-down favorite idea are the Chocolate-Covered Peeps. They are colorful, fun and quite frankly, I’ve never seen anything like them. They are also a good idea for families who choose not to dye eggs or who just want an alternative to their kitchen smelling of vinegar or dealing with pesky dye stains.
The Easter Bunny Rolls are also something that I plan to make. I don’t bake too often, but the idea of not having these little guys at the table is almost more than I can stand! I will make them a day ahead of time so I will have the opportunity to make another batch should I have, shall we say, technical difficulties.
However you choose to celebrate Easter (or just spring in general) the idea is to bring the vibrancy and freshness of the season indoors. More importantly, it is a time to gather with friends and family and share in the joys of love and true affection.
Happy Spring Crafting!
E
These cute little peeps will add a punch to any Easter basket.
Easter and Peeps are almost synonymous. They were created by Russian immigrant Sam Born in 1953 and have been a staple in Easter baskets ever since. This easy DIY from Leigh Ann at Your Homebased Mom, gives instructions on how to create the cute little critters, as well as how to transform them into Chocolate-Covered Peep Pops and even (gasp!) Peep S’mores! These make a great special addition to the kids’ baskets and will be equally oogled and eaten at the office — just prepare your ego for the onslaught of Martha Stewart comparisons.
Using baby vegetables adds a rustic touch to the traditional centerpiece.
I’ll admit it. When I first saw this centerpiece on the Swedish bloger Minna Mercke’s popular site, Blomstervekstad, I thought that it was a collection of foil-wrapped chocolate candies on a bed of moss. When I clicked on the image I soon discovered that they were baby onions, Brussels sprouts and cabbages. Brilliant! This is really a jumping-off-point kind of DIY. Simply find a cake stand, bowl or basket and fill it with moss, then top it with whatever spring-themed items you wish. You could use candy, vegetables or even eggs. Using candy in the centerpiece encourages interaction among the guests and kids will simply love it. I have also seen some plastic and paper-mache eggs this season that are totally display worthy. Go forth and be creative!
This egg swag can be used year after year. Try adding glitter for a sparkling touch.
Cute Easter decorations can cost an arm and a leg these days. Why pay exorbitant prices for something that you can make for a few dollars and some time at the craft table? This adorable (and easy) egg swag from The Futon Store NYC can be made with three simple items: string, glue and balloons. Most if not all of these supplies are probably in your home right now! You can use one color of string or several colors depending on your budget. A variety of color gives a festive punch to your decor, while one overall color will make a bigger statement. For a simple, rustic look, use white or neutral-colored string.
Bread is a staple at any family meal. These bunny-shaped rolls offer a whimsical touch to the table.
Whether you are a seasoned baker or have no idea what a rolling pin looks like, you can serve these adorable bunny rolls at your gathering using your method of choice. Taste Of Home lays out detailed instructions and a tasty-sounding savory recipe that will compliment any Easter brunch or dinner. If your kitchen skills are more suited to the “pre-made” arena, you’re in luck. These will work just as well with a store-bought mix or canned dough (your only task is to keep them from burning).
Using branches is an inexpensive way to make an elegant and simple arrangement.
Sometimes all you want is a simple, clean floral arrangement without all of the fuss, mess and expense that flowers bring. Kelly Bernier of Restyling Home is a big fan of using branches, and gives a great selection of ideas on her blog, as well as tips on how to force branches into bloom. Luckily for me, cherry, dogwood and Bradford pear trees are all blooming in my area of Alabama, as are forsythia and lilac bushes. All you need are a few empty vases and containers and you can create a stunning collection of nature’s beauty right in your living room.
Spilling My Wardrobe Secrets
| April 3, 2012 | Posted by Nicole L. under announcements, fashion, Gather, Inspiration, weekend fun |
That's me!
Nicole from The Wardrobe Code here! While I love putting together my fashion collages here on Inspired Design Daily, what I really love is working with my clients. It’s a good day if I can make a client see her existing wardrobe in a different light, or inspire another to develop a signature style.
Since I’m a wardrobe coach, my fashion philosophy is a bit different from most wardrobe consultants. I believe that empowering my clients to build their wardrobes strategically is far more satisfying than simply styling a client in the latest trends. So, because I want everyone to get a little sample of my world, I’m taking this fashion show on the road with 2 events in May.
1.) First I’ll be demonstrating my best service Ready, Set – Dress! live for anyone who would like to come learn my secrets, and it’s free!
Watch me work with a client, up close and personal. You’ll get a peek at my wardrobe organizing method and learn how to combine what’s already in your closet into dozens of outfit combos.
2.) Next, I’m hosting a seminar Total Wardrobe Makeover that will fundamentally change the way you think about your wardrobe.
Did I say this would fundamentally change your perspective? Because it will. Somewhere along the way, most of us just all collectively forgot how to to make fashion work for us – I blame it on the 80s. But this workshop will get you back on track and building a wardrobe that will impress everyone around you.
Both events are in the heart of Orange County in a funky, cool art lounge called The LOFT – and the first event is limited to 50 people. You can learn more about each event here.
Seriously, don’t miss out!
Nicole Longstreath is a wardrobe coach in Orange County, CA and author of Reclaiming Your Wardrobe, an ebook dedicated to building a smarter wardrobe, avoiding bad purchases and uncovering your unique style. She also publishes a weekly outfit inspiration collage, exclusively for readers of Collages & Commentary.
High Flying Fun with DIY Kites
| March 8, 2012 | Posted by Elissa C. under Create, do-it-yourself, Guest Bloggers, Inspiration, Projects, Sustainable Living |
This week’s DIY Post is going to be short and sweet (thanks to a nasty sinus infection and a lack of coherent brain power from yours truly). Luckily, the internet doesn’t require sound so you can’t hear my hacking cough and croaky voice. I finally got it back today (sort of). I’m still working on the feeling better part.
When I was thinking of what to write about for my first March post, my mind immediately thought of the old weather adage that my first grade teacher taught me: “March roars in like a lion and out like a lamb.” It has been exceptionally windy in Alabama so far this month so I thought that a DIY kite post was in order.
These kite projects are easy to follow and fun for adults and kids alike. Because kites are easily destroyed (or at least the ones I had as a kid were) I focused on using recycled materials or other items that can be found in almost any household. So gather your string and prepare for some cheap and high-flying fun!
This DIY by GiddyGiddy is perhaps the most adorable kite tutorial (and family) that I have seen so far. The directions are easy to follow, but this one will require more than just a few minutes to assemble. The cuteness factor is upped by using colored wax paper, but you could also use regular wax paper and achieve air-worthy results. GiddyGiddy's blog is good for more than one look through. There are a number of other crafting projects that are totally worth trying out. Click the image for instructions.
We have an unending supply of plastic bags that we keep around the house. We use them for garbage bags for our small trash cans, for bagging up plan trimmings around the yard (and now that I have this tutorial from WikiHow) for making kites! All you need are a couple of sticks, a few plastic bags and some string. You could jazz it up with a Sharpie marker or fly it in it's undressed state. Either way, it's fun for an afternoon of fun (or more, if you avoid crashing it into the ground). Click the image for instructions.
This DIY from LightlyEnchanted isn't a kit in the traditional sense, but it's still fun to make. This is perfect project for younger children and will take much less time to create than a regular kite. Kids don't normally care about the engineering process, they just want to play with the finished product. This one uses the leftover cardboard tube from rolls of toilet paper or paper towels, orange crepe paper, and glue. You could mix up the colors and create rainbow fish, or stick with the plan and pay homage to the traditional Chinese goldfish kite by using orange. I remember flying kites and my youngest sister always had a hard time coordinating the running and throwing actions needed to get a kite off the ground. Even the youngest of children can still have fun waving it around in the yard and it won't fly off into the sunset when the string runs out. Click on the image for instructions.
The kite DIYs above are strictly for the pleasure of flying. However, there are apparently entire sports built around kites and harnessing the power of the wind. Power Kiting, Kitesurfing and Kiteboarding all have their own communities and terminology, and they look like a fun hobby for those who aren’t afraid of taking risks with their body.
Just try not to do it like this guy.
Happy kiting!
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