J.Crew Inspired Rooms

Happy Monday!  I admit, it's been a long couple of weeks and I desparately needed just a little "me" time this weekend.  My husband graciously blessed me with a few hours to myself and I jumped on the chance to doing some window shopping.  I walked into J.Crew and saw the dress that I've been conveting the past week ever since I saw it here.  It was on sale AND in my size so I took it as a sign and snatched it up!  I can even fit it over my belly and post-baby, I'll be able to wear it with a belt for a long time. 

(image via fabsugar.com)

Yes, include me among the countless bloggers you'll read about who LOVE J.Crew.  What I love about their style is that it is classic, timeless, but in a updated, fresh and quirky way.  There's always something unexpected about their looks whether it's a bold, but beautiful color, or an new mix of patterns or textures, like denim with glitter or hot pink and orange. 

I first came across this these photos in January and knew that I'd want to share them again someday.  Click here for a link to all 10 J.Crew inspired rooms.

(all images via houseandhome.com)

I'd consider all these rooms classics that won't go out of style, yet, there's nothing boring or predictable about them.  There's something in each look that makes you say "hmmm"  :)  Thanks Jenna Lyons!  We love you!

What about you... do these looks speak to you too?

Did you go to Target?

If you went today in hopes of snatching up some of the fabulous items from the Missoni line, then you probably saw something like this:

I was surprised to see that in just a few hours, most of the shelves were bare!  I knew the Missoni line was going to popular, but I had no idea the store would practically be cleaned out in just a few hours.  I happen to have some time this morning and I was just curious to see the items in person. 

Target's website has been down all day too.  Amazing.  Here's an article about it from the New York Times. 

I managed to grab just a couple of items for my little girl.  Were you able to get anything you've been eyeing?

Aloha! Finds and Grinds from Hawaii

Hello!  We got back from Hawaii a couple of weeks ago and I am just feeling like I'm just getting caught up on things.  It doesn't help that the second I got home, I started a few new design projects... :P  Ahh.. can't help it when inspiration strikes!  I often think about how many other crazy people are out there painting or moving furniture in the wee hours of the night.  Anyone ?  :)  Decorators are quite an impatient bunch wouldn't  you say?  Isn't that how DIY got started?  ("I'll just do it myself."  :)

Ok... so here are some great things I discovered while in Hawaii this time.  First, I found this awesome blog, Oahu Mom.  If you are looking for great ideas for family outings that you won't find in any guide book, you're in luck!  Lisa writes from personal experience and does such a good job of sharing some of the lil' gems of Oahu, especially if you have kids.  Thanks Lisa for making our trip so much MORE fun!

2nd thing... food or grinds as they say.  Man... we LOVE the food in Hawaii.  I could go on and on, but for now, I'll just share about a new discovery from this trip.  We found one of the best combinations out there... peanut butter and coconut!  North Shore Goodies makes these amazing little jars of Coconut Peanut Butter.  So yummy!  You can find them at farmners markets in Hawaii or order online.  I love supporting local businesses too!

(This is as brave as I'm going to get in posting a bathing suit pic) :)

Lastly, here's a funny transition from food to bathing suits.  :)  Not a new discovery, but I wanted to give a plug for Athleta's amazing bathing suits.  I love them and pretty much lived in them during our trip.  They look as good as they feel.  They have some great patterns and what I love most is the construction.  You can move, stretch, reach and swim without the fear of anything falling out that you don't want to.  (so important if you're chasing lil' ones)  :)    The best part is... they have great sales and are having one right now!  You can find suits on sale for just about the same as you'd pay at Target or Old Navy.  Seriously, love Athleta!

We love going to Hawaii and seeing old friends and making new ones.  They always show us the true meaning of aloha and ohana (love and family). 

Pantone 2011 Fall Colors

I know, I know, summer is far from over. In fact it seems like it's just starting here in Seattle. :P  I'm a summer person, so trust me, I'm in no rush for fall. I'm soaking in every bit of sun and letting the kids play late into the evening, but I do love the anticipation of a new season. Out with the old, in with the new, an opportunity for a fresh start in a fresh season. There's something soothing about the natural rhythm of the seasons. I love this verse:

There is a time for everything,

and a season for every activity under the heavens

- Ecclesiastes 3:1 -

So, here are the projected colors trends for Fall 2011. Gorgeous huh? To be honest, I've never met a color I didn't like. I think my favorites in this collection are the pinks and the greens... great combo, so fresh! What are your favorites?



(via pantone.com)



You think J Crew's Fall Collection has got it right?





 



(all images via mamasrollingstone.com)

LOVE IT!!

I've already started noticing lots of plums and pinks and the olive green is coming back again from last fall.  Funny.. I knew there was a reason I just bought an olive scarf!  :)  Now... for that pink sweater...

BTW... this is the last week my one year survey will be up.  If you haven't gotten a chance to complete it, I'd LOVE your feedback.  Thanks!

These Shoes Were Made For Walking

This little one at my house needs new shoes.

And here's what she got:



Nostalgic Saltwater Sandals



Classic Converse



Adorable Tiny Toms



All under $30 and available from Nordstroms.  :)

Dressing Up

Everyone once in a while I come across a great deal that I just have to share.  In the fall, it was this coat, this time, it's these 2 FABulous dresses!

I got this one from Anthropologie.  It's the Semarang Robe and yup, it's supposed to be a robe.  But I think it looks just as good as DVF wrap dress.  Shh.. I won't tell if you won't.  ;)  The graphic pattern is stunning!  For $29.99?  HELLO! 



(via anthropologie.com)

I also happened to go into my local H&M and saw their gorgeous Spring Collection!  So much fun stuff.  I love the print of this dress, but I wasn't sure if it was going to be flattering.  LOVE IT and got it for just $19.99!  Score!  I got a little green skinny belt to go with.  So cute.



(via hm.com)


What I love best about these dresses is that they're practical too.  They're no brainers, you don't have to worry about matching.  Slip these on with a jean jacket and you're out the door.  Also, these will work right now with tights and boots and they'll work right through spring and summer.

Happy Shopping!