Posts from June 2007

I enjoy browsing through Etsy's vintage shops and looking for treasures. I love Blue Bell Bazaar's elegant items; I also had a great customer service experience when I ordered from the shop, and that certainly made me want to come back! The shop specializes in glassware, bone china, jewelry, handmade linens and other vintage objects.

While looking through today I noticed these pastel-and-gold pieces. Clockwise from top left: 1960 Royal Woodward vase in baby blue, white and gold ($29); Vintage Limosges cup and saucer (the pink cup and matching saucer are $39 for the set); and probably my favorite, the Pink vintage piggy bank ($16). I think any of these pieces would add a bit of charm to an otherwise more contemporary setting.

Images from Blue Bell Bazaar.

Lite Brite Floral Passport Case, $16.00 at tinymeat.etsy.com.

Before we left for Spain, Jw picked up Travel Scrabble (!) and 2 tinymeat™ passport cases from Flight 001 on Rush Street...

Air Terminal Passport Case, $16.00 at tinymeat.etsy.com.

The intro image is the design I got... "Lite Brite Floral" - while Jw got the "Air Terminal" design (above), which - if you look closely - features some naughty airport behavior, as well as an Indian burial ground underneath the terminal!

passport cases from left to right: Air Terminal, Lite Brite Floral and For the Birds... all $16.00 at tinymeat.etsy.com.

I'm assuming this adorable little model is related to the artist... she sure is cute - and definitely makes me want to buy more, more, more! I just hope she has a good agent.

Tightwad Wallet & Smartypants Wallets, $14.00 each at tinymeat.etsy.com.

I also love the tinymeat™ wallets... especially, the designs with a word wrapped around the outside. "Tightwad" and "Smartypants" were two of my favorites, but there's also "Candyass" and several different colors with just the word "Wallet" on them ;)

Oh, and tinymeat™ has a blog, too - so check it out!

images c/o tinymeat™.

Chloe Birds, by Kate Wilson.

After Kate posted a comment on my Camper Shoes, Barcelona & Me post, I went and checked out her blog, Little Doodles... it's pretty excellent. So much so, that you'll notice I've added it to my favorites in the column on the right.

Little Birds, by Kate Wilson.

Kate is a UK-based artist/illustrator, and the blog is chock full of her beautiful illustrations (many of which feature fat, little birds - which I love). There are also write-ups on design, jewelry, fabrics, homewares... and - of course - SHOES. The below drawing is one of my favorites:

Shoes, by Kate Wilson.

thank so much for commenting on the SCOOP, Kate!... I'm glad to have found you!

images c/o Kate Wilson.

dress in a window

building exteriors

this is the sidewalk (!)

The Barcelona Pavilion by Mies van der Rohe

a shop security gate

photos by emily

I have long admired Ikea’s LILLBERG rocker for its clean lines and value. Today I noticed the rocker is now offered in a black frame finish, which I just love--for $159. The cushions are boxy and could easily be recovered, so I thought it would be fun to "test" some of my favorite fabrics on the LILLBERG cushions. I think a pair of these rocking chairs would look smashing facing each other, on either side and in front of a sofa, with a coffee table anchoring the arrangement. What are your thoughts? Any other fabric suggestions welcome too!

Minton (Domino) fabric, Lewis & Sheron.

Flowering Branch curtain panel, Urban Outfitters.

River (Sky) fabric, Lulu DK.

Images from Ikea, Lewis & Sheron, Urban Outfitters, and Lulu DK.

bedroom ceiling in one of the apartments of Casa Milá, aka La Pedrera.

Needless to say, Barcelona was incredible... I started the trip with high expectations of getting rest, seeing beautiful & inspiring things and eating amazing food. Those expectations were met... and exceeded.

I have SO many pictures to share that it's a bit ridiculous, so I'm planning on posting Albums of images periodically, that may - or may not - have a specific theme. (i.e. I ended up taking approximately 200 pictures of ironwork doors throughout the city, so that'll have to be 2 or 3 posts, at least ;)

So, here's a sampling, to get us started:

Bastardino came along for the trip... kind of like our little garden gnome that we could take pictures of in different places throughout BCN... this is his first day: here we're having our daily café con leches (espresso w/ milk) at the excellent Café Zurich... just down the street from our hotel.

There are mopeds everywhere in Barcelona. If you've ever been to Amsterdam, it's comparable to the number of bicycles that you see there - except scooters are louder, faster & more likely mow down pedestrians... but at least people try to make them fun-looking.

As I mentioned above, I took a tremendous amount of photos of the ironwork all around the city: it's on lamp posts, window grates, apartment doors... everything. And it's all beautiful.

There was a market walkable from our hotel that had several fruit stands selling these AMAZING fresh juices... not only were they delicious, they looked striking all lined up in their cups.

And more than anything else, I loved the colors of everything... even the most mundane objects and buildings were beautifully colored in a way that you just don't see anywhere in the States. I was nice to see color in something other than a Doritos ad on the side of a bus.

pics by me.

Mod Lee Coat and Guadalupe Bag, Trina Turk.

Known for a vintage-y and feminine style, Trina Turk is perhaps one of my favorite designers. I love how she works with pattern and color, and she knows the value of great interior design--Kelly Wearstler and Jonathan Adler have both designed boutiques for her. So it was no surprise that I was drawn to these images of her Los Angeles home, published in Elle Décor (July/August 2007). The colors, fabrics and vintage furnishings used create a beautiful, and very personal, composition.

The dining room’s chairs by William Haines take center stage, and the grouping of objects on the table is grounded by a Japanese obi used as a table runner.

Lucky guests who stay in Turk’s guest room are treated to a cheery mix of fabrics, a gorgeous tomato-red lacquer Asian motif bed and a two-tone chest of drawers (by Widdicomb) that pulls the room together.

Clothing image from Trina Turk. Interiors photography by Roger Davies for Elle Décor.

Emily, if I could send this to you I would, but the June heat is not the best for shipping chocolate. You'll just have to enjoy it virtually for now, and we will share one the next time I am in Chicago. Happy Birthday and welcome back from Barcelona!

Vosges Haut-Chocolat Barcelona Exotic Candy Bar with Hickory smoked almonds, sea salt and caramel noted milk chocolate.

Shake What Your Momma Gave You card, by OrangeBeautiful, available at Broadway Paper.

On this day, 29 years ago, at 4:51 in the morning (EST), I was born to two awesome parents named Tom and Pat Martin...

I always wonder if they had any inkling way back then about what kind of adults my brother and I would turn out to be. And now, when I see my little nephew, who's not even 6 months old, it's weird to think of him as a 30 year old man ;)

So, in honor of birthdays, (my own, as well as my dear friend, Suz's, this past Sunday) - and the fact that Eric over at Broadway Paper sent me a link to this post on Hostess With The Mostess about BWP's (excellent) birthday card collection... (which includes an OB card!!!)

I love HWTM's picks (I'm a big fan of bird motifs, in general... and here are some of my picks to add to the list:

This card from Egg Press is simple & elegant... a good pick for a co-worker, friend or sister - and definitely a good one for mom.

Floral Birthday Card, by Egg Press, available at Broadway Paper.

I love pretty much everything from uncooked. - their cards are just saucy and irreverant and fun... it reminds me of a class I had in college where we had to throw a dart at a board full of random words, and then make art pieces using a combination of those things as the subject matter. The result was always crazy... and totally unexpected.

Birthday Card, by uncooked. outside message: "It's your birthday and I want you to be happy all day. That's why I'm not going to tell you about the sorcerer who lives in my pocket and hates your guts." inside message: "Happy Birthday"; available at Broadway Paper.

and don't forget the wrapping paper! IOTA's collection of bold patterns are perfect for birthdays... there are even corresponding gift cards to go with all of their wraps!

Citrus Wrap and Pickup Sticks Wrap, by IOTA, both available at Broadway Paper.

images c/o Broadway Paper - except for the first one... that's mine.

As you know I like: 1) shoes, 2) deals and 3) chevron pattern. So you can imagine I was excited to find these peep-toe wedges from Old Navy ($19.50). I would let the patterned heel take center stage and keep the rest of the outfit really clean and elegant.

Image from oldnavy.com.

...just a little bit of what's to come this week:

• much ado about Barcelona (of course!)
• new items to go up on the OB Etsy Shop...
• a spectacular swap, and
• much, much more!

Tim Arbogast from Arbogast Design Group contacted me with the news that his interior design firm is launching a new boutique-- Jett Modern, located in Sacremento, CA.

Judging by their design portfolio, I would imagine the shop will have some very chic and expressive wares. (I love the blue upholstered dining chairs in the image above.) So many shops in CA I wish I could visit--this would be one of them!

Portfolio images from Arbogast Design Group.

Ous Sandal.

If all goes according to plan, I'm in Barcelona right now, buying a pair of Camper shoes... I guess you'll just have to wait until I return to find out which pair I chose!

Women's styles, from left to right: Left, Industrial Bou & Peu styles.

images c/o Camper.

Last weekend I had the pleasure of attending an open house at Chartreuse, a design studio founded by my friend, Charity Ewanko. Chartreuse’s occasion to celebrate was the completion of their newly renovated studio in Lakewood, Ohio, including an enclosed, outdoor petit parc, just in time for summer.

Like the work the full-service graphic design studio creates, the party details conveyed a style at once classic, modern, and elegant. From the “flip book” invitations, which pictorially demonstrated how to make a “Chartreuse-ito” (a signature version of the summery mojito—which would be served at the party), to the signage displayed in Lucite blocks to the chartreuse-wrapped ginger candies waiting by the door, every detail was well-thought out and beautifully executed.

The studio space itself is a sleek combination of gleaming ebonized wood floors, natural light, minimal furnishings, pinpointed color (in a recessed niche holding a flat screen TV, and chartreuse-and-gray patterned fabrics on upholstered furniture) and high-gloss white metal ceiling tiles that were discovered and restored during the renovation.

The food was beautifully prepared, delicious and memorable in its inventive display. Female servers were all given headbands to wear, fashioned from fabric that matched a large panel displayed outside in the patio area. Bite-sized portions were charming and included tiny shotglass-sized floats in rootbeer and keylime flavors!

The petit parc is such a wonderful outdoor space, I had to include this “before” photo before it became crowded with party guests. Lucite tables (that I absolutely flipped over) scattered throughout the patio area provided a place to rest a drink. Pictured here are Michelle Zelasko (top left), Designer; and Charity Ewanko (center), Founder and Designer, with guests. Not pictured but certainly not forgotten: Jesse Ewanko, Interactive Designer and wooden platform builder extraordinaire! Thanks Chartreuse for a stylish, fun and fabulous evening!

Images courtesy of Chartreuse, Inc.

Here's round 2 of my continuing coverage of Really Good Business Cards... I think I'll try to make this a regular feature, including business cards for other types of business/professions, etc. besides stationery designers ;)

Knock Knock

Little Tree Press

OPLUSD

Superdeluxe

Trace Paper

Translucent Chocolates

pics by Jw.

Last night my family and I went to Diamond Grille to celebrate my brother's birthday and graduation, and I left with all kinds of things to blog about. The Grille is one of those establishments that has been there forever, and has reliably great steaks and the like. You don't go there for atmosphere (in fact in some reviews patrons complain that the decor hasn't been updated in over 40 years!), you kind of go to hide away and get a great dinner, which is why Tiger Woods famously rented out the restaurant after he played at nearby Firestone. But I digress.

In between snapping some family shots, I noticed all these cute touches that to most might look dated, but got me all excited. The wallpaper in the image above is so right now (I love how one of the sconce shades is crooked--that's just the kind of place this is), not to mention the classic Sputnik-style chandelier. Next to it, the sweet little retro drawing on the restaurant's "doggie bags".

But what enthralled me the most were the letterpressed, scallop-edged, chartreuse and cream Greek Key patterned, disposable paper coasters that are restaurant standard-circa 1960. I loved them so much the waitresses sent me home with a big stack! (In case you'd like something similar, I found these.)

Photos by me.

Op Art Earrings by Lulu Smith, $90.00, available in her etsy shop.

After getting the chance to see Lulu Smith's work in person at the Old Town Art Fair, I was excited to also find some of her work available on Etsy!

Check it out: Lulu Studio's shop.

image c/o Lulu Smith.

In case you haven't seen it yet...check out this fabulous, finished office designed by Vanessa De Vargas of Turquoise for her client in Santa Monica, CA. My favorite touches: the Lucite shelving, metallic botanical wallpaper, tufted sofa and hanging lantern. I think the room has a great palette of colors and textures.

Awhile back, I posted Vanessa's inspiration board for the project and first sneak peaks she had provided on her blog. I love how the room turned out...it has certainly inspired me to turn my attention to my office/project space at home!

Images from Turquoise.

I'm always keeping an eye out for great business cards... I definitely love my OrangeBeautiful business cards (which I guess I should post about at some point ;) ...and since I come into contact with a lot of fellow designers/printers/card makers, it only makes sense that I have a great stockpile of amazing business cards to show off...

I'll be posting a few today - and then a few more on Thursday... all picked up from vendors at this year's NSS:

AMH Designs

Binth

Louella Press

Louella Press (close-up)

Good On Paper

Hammerpress

Joy by Mel Lim (outside)

Joy by Mel Lim (inside)

...and look for round 2 of Really Good Business Cards on Thursday!

pics by Jw.

Black crepe dress $39.99. Cream lace bolero $26.99. Cream crepe lace-front blouse $34.99.

If you've been enjoying Patrick Robinson's summer collection for Target, you're probably as excited as I am that Libertine is up next, scheduled to hit Target stores on July 15. Lots of neo-preppy pieces and pretty colors, but interestingly my favorites are all black and white (or cream), shown above. You can see the rest of the Libertine for Target collection here.

Sweater dress $49.99. Wool melton ivory cropped jacket $44.99. Ruffle front black dress $29.99. Long-stitch gray sweater $44.99; Ruffle front gray dress $29.99, and Striped black and white belt $14.99.

Following Libertine is a most excellent collection by London powerhouse Temperley, shown above. Again, all my favorites seem to fall into the black, white/cream, and gray categories, which in this case is characteristic of the other items. I love Temperley’s sophisticated detail and proportion…I see myself going a little crazy when these clothes arrive in Target stores later this fall. I hope there will be some great accessories too! View the rest of the Temperley for Target collection here.

Images from Target pressroom.

This image, captured by photographer Mark Shaw, is of model Nico in Paris, 1960, in the home of Parisian designer Henri Samuel. Not only does Nico look cool and glamorous, but the same can be said for the funky interior. This is a great mix: the marble and gilded mantle, luxe green velvet chaise energized by the yellow and white pillows, the patterned rug and Moroccan-style (octagonal?) side table, and white upholstered ottoman. This numbered and stamped print, available at Svenska Mobler, was taken for a never-published series for LIFE magazine. Shaw is best known for his photographs of the Kennedy family, but his fashion photography represents his work before that time period. You can view other Shaw images here; don't miss the backstage shots of 1950s Parisian fashion shows!

Image from Svenska Mobler.

Eleanor Grosch Sandpiper Pillow, $24.00 and Bandaid Art by Bansher.

Urban Outfitters just released their Artist Series of home accessories... and there are some really great illustrators and designers included in the list, like Simon Basher, Kurt Halsey & Eleanor Grosch (the very same designer behind these these Keds, remember?)...

Josh Cochran's Nietzsche Tote and Mark Allen Miller's Trees Tote, each $38.00.

I really like these totes (mostly, due to my incurable bag addiction) - they're fully lined w/ contrasting prints & have 3 interior pockets for your wallet, cell phone, keys, etc... and at roughly 15 x 15" in size, I could easily carry my r+h mini binders with room to spare!

Ray Fenwick bedding set, $100.00 (queen size).

I've always found that UO is a great place to find fun bedding, and this print (above) by illustrator, Ray Fenwick is no exception. Oh, and be sure to check out more of Ray's amazing work (especially the patterns & the hand-written LL Cool J lyrics) on his website.

Eleanor Grosch's Fox Pillow, $26.00.

Life in the 21st Birds Pillow, $28.00.

There are a quite a few pillows in the Artist Series, but these two jumped out at me... another Eleanor Grosch design in the fox-shaped pillow and a vividly-colored bird print, by Life in the 21st. Check out more great pillows at UO, right here.

images c/o Urban Outfitters.

So my sister and I had such fun at Atlanta's shopSCAD store this past weekend...I had to share more of the experience!

I think we were in the shop about 5 minutes when my sister located these beautiful and dimensional pagoda earrings by artist Hui-Mei Pan, an MFA graduate of SCAD, metalsmith and children's book illustrator. These earrings are so intricate--hand-soldered chain links fall in a circular shape from a sterling base. The tips are peridot stones, so lovely.

I didn't see this silk linens collection in the shop, but found it on the very fabulous and comprehensive shopscadonline.com. I about fell over when I saw this beautifully styled image, featuring silks dyed and painted by hand by textile designer Paige Hathaway Thorn. This artist has created custom pieces commissioned by a slew of celebrities, so it's no surprise her work is luxurious with a price tag to match (the duvet is $1,300!). Still, if you click her link and read about her process the substantial amount of work involved is apparent. Silk scarves, pillows and eye pillows are more moderately priced for the non-celeb crowd, and just as lovely.

My sister and I flipped for this large antler necklace by Adam Smith. Again it was out of our price range, but we appreciated its organic beauty. Smith lists simplification among his goals as an artist, and I think that's what I love best about this piece: its elegant simplicity of form.

So what did I end up bringing home in that shopSCAD tote? This pretty and functional Belinda carpet bag by designer Claire Sanchez. I loved the color and texture of the silk/cotton outer fabric contrasted with the green silk handles (a signature of the designer). Most of all, I couldn't resist the pretty dressmaker pleats that give shapely structure to both sides of the bag. Her line includes lots of colorful retro prints and limited edition vintage fabrics.

All images from shopscadonline.com.

outside the Paris St. location...

I started looking for some paper stores in and around Barcelona... I'm planning on bringing my trusty Zoom Tube for the sole purpose of bringing back as much paper as I can get my hands on...

I'm hoping that PEPA PAPER, and one (or more!) of its 4 Barcelona locations, can help me out with this endeavor:

inside the Paris St. shop...

inside the Bulevard Rosa location...

Anyone know of any other good shops to find decorative papers & stationery in Barcelona?

images c/o PEPA PAPER.

Untitled (both) works by Nathan Abels. Acrylic on panels.

I just returned from a fabulous trip to Atlanta and have all kinds of things to share. The first is artist Nathan Abels, an MFA graduate of the Savannah College of Art & Design (now based in Denver), whose work I had the pleasure of viewing in person at the Atlanta outpost of shopSCAD.

Warehouse. Acrylic on panel.

Dealing with subjects such as sense of place and organization of both public and private space, Abels' work makes the "mundane" look strikingly beautiful. To me, it also conveys a sense of solitude one can feel as an observer, looking at things in an individual way.

Untitled. Acrylic and mylar on panel.

In person, the paintings' colors and surfaces (wooden panels) give the collection added appeal. The image above is a good representation of the woodgrain that shows through many of the paintings, giving the composition added texture and depth.

Untitled. Acrylic and enamel on panel.

This last piece was not part of the shopSCAD exhibit, but I think it's really fun and it appeals to the part of me that loves pattern and silhouettes.

More on my shopSCAD adventure later!

Photos from nathanabels.com.

Back at the end of May, Holly (over at decor8), started taking entries for her Create A Mood Board Contest... I definitely wanted to enter something - and I have all kinds of half-assed excuses, that I won't get into, for why I didn't...

Some people did, however, get off their butts to put together some amazing things...

The Creative Space for Mom & Son board, by Portland, Oregon's Starlee Matz, has got to be my top pick. It's not a mood board: it's a work of art!!! She should frame this and hang it in her home... Now, of course, these are my colors: pale blue/vivid orange - so you can't go wrong there, but the composition of the pieces, the mis-matching cut-out letters, the scraps & swatches attached with clipiloa paper clips!!! I LOVE IT.

Congrats, Starlee... you're a genius. I can't wait to see images of the finished space that must come out of this mood board.

And thanks to Holly for an awesome contest idea!

images by Starlee Matz c/o decor8.

Grace over at design*sponge posted about the MANDAL chests at IKEA, and mentioned that some new things were shaking over on the IKEA website. Being the huge IKEA fan that I am, I had to check it out...

HEDVIG fabric, designer: Nina Jobs, $6.99/yd. at IKEA.

There are some great new items available (unfortunately, most of the stuff I want is only available at the store and not online - which means, not only do I have to drive out to Schaumburg to get the stuff, it's also more likely that I'll spend twice as much money b/c I'll see things there that I didn't find on the website!... curse them!!!)

SKRUVSTA swivel chair, w/ Ankarsvik Multicolor cover, $139.00 at IKEA.

I'm completely in love with this chair... this same swivel style was available about a year ago in another fabric, and I coveted that one just as I am coveting this one now. In the boutique that I will one day own, I imagine having two of these in front of my custom-orders desk for clients to sit in...

INREDA Collector's Box, in beech, $25.00 at IKEA.

I'm always looking for clever ways to store (& display!) all the tiny knick-knack things I have... and this INREDA collector's box would be perfect! I think it would work well for jewelry parts or buttons (I have jars and ziploc bags full of buttons!). It would keep everything separated and organized, while showing everything off at the same time!

KATRIN fabric, designer: Erika Pekkari, $4.99/yd. at IKEA.

And, of course, IKEA always has the best fabrics!... the image at the front of the post is just 1 of 5 different designs from the HEDVIG line... and the three above are from the KATRIN line. That black print with the reversed-out branch would make an excellent bag... hmmm....

all images c/o IKEA.

Another artist that I definitely didn't want to miss at the Old Town Art Fair this past weekend was Dolan Geiman... if you've been reading the SCOOP regularly (which I hope you have), you may recognize that name from a few previous posts of mine: this one from back in April and this one from last week...

right: Barn Door; left: Tropical Birds... both available on etsy.

So, clearly, I'm a fan... I can't wait until that whole Mega Millions thing comes through and I can buy some of his larger scales pieces.

The Old Town Art Fair was the first time I had seen the piece pictured below in person - and I could definitely see it hanging above our fireplace at home:

Landscape No. 1, acrylic & silk screen wood cutouts on wood panel, 13.75" x 80.5" x 3".

Driftwood Days, photo collage on found wood, 36.5" x 33.25" x 2.5", available from Dolan's etsy shop.

And don't get me started on this piece with the tiny images mounted to rectangles of found wood... and nailed, in a grid, to that great minty green background. I always like artwork that has a bit of a narrative to it, and, to me, this piece feels like a log of someone's travels, or snippets of someone's memories...

and here's a couple more booth shots:

If you want to see more - or would like more detailed information on some of the pieces you see here - go ahead and check out Dolan's website, as well as his etsy shop... also, keep an eye out for future posts on Dolan's work (specifically, pics of the 3 new panel paintings I bought at the fair - to hang in my studio - and, hopefully, a visit to Dolan's studio here in Chicago!) -

Much thanks to Ali & Dolan for being so gracious with their time at the show!

pics by Jw.

Daisy Fellowes' "Tutti Frutti" Ensemble Cartier 1936, by mike and maaike.

This morning, as we're getting ready to leave the house, Josh tells me that there's a post about a necklace on MoCo Loco that I'm gonna want to check out:

Oh, man, was he right... these pieces by San Francisco-based, design duo, mike and maaike (pronounced "mike and mi-kuh") are the perfect combination of craft, quirky-ness & out-of-the-box elegance. Their designs are derived from pixelated images found from Google searches of 'some of the most expensive, and often famous jewelry in the world'... the end result is a colorfully printed & precisely scored piece of wearable leather.

After being blown away by the Stolen Jewels pieces posted at MoCo, I visited the mike and maaike site to find more amazing work... the above image is of the Belkin CushTop laptop desk (one of several laptop accessories designed for Belkin by mike and maaike). I guarantee you that this will be in one of my upcoming Where'd My Money Go? posts... especially, if the orange is re-stocked!

5,084,000,000 people, 5,360 pages, 3,700 years, 243 countries, 7 books, and 1 shelf.

As someone who has a crazy fondness for books in general, I was immediately drawn to this beautifully simplistic bookshelf, designed by mike and maaike for blankblank. The piece includes 7 of the world's most influential religious texts (try and name them w/o looking at the list) - all evenly displayed in a specifically-notched shelf made out of reclaimed hardwood... Edition of 50, $2500 each.

all pics c/o mike and maaike.

via MoCoLoco.

Normally, when people are asked about what they would do with some hypothetical extra amount of money (i.e. winning the lottery, getting some huge raise, inheriting millions from that unknown uncle), they usually respond with standard answers like 'travel around the world' or 'pay off all my debts' or 'buy a home'...

With me, it's art. I would spend huge amounts of money filling my house with art that I love... Art that was made by awesomely talented people whom I admire and am in awe of.

One of the very first things I would do if I were to win the Illinois Lottery Mega Millions tomorrow (after paying off all my debt ;) would be to buy this sweet piece by Gabe Lanza that he unveiled at the Old Town Art Fair this past weekend...

I LOVE IT.

(I'll hopefully get the appropriate title information, materials used, etc. later today.)

***POSTSCRIPT***

Here's the 411 on the piece (thanks, Gabe!):

Do Not Resist The Forces of Scientific and Technical Modernization.

acrylic, graphite, mixed media construction with wood; 88"W x 54"H

Gabe Lanza © 2007

And feel free to contact the artist directly for more information on this - and other - pieces.

pics by Jw.

I adore this Greenwich Village apartment designed by Alexandra Pappas and Tatyana Miron of Pappas Miron. These ladies--who have been friends since childhood--have an eclectic style that combines modern with traditional, and they incorporate vintage and artisanal pieces into their work, producing unique and personal spaces. In their portfolio, sophistication mingles with youthfulness and I love the combination.

Click here to read an article from Elle magazine (November 2006), featuring Pappas and Miron's tips for entertaining at home--great ideas, especially for the cooking-challenged (like me), for making easy look elegant.

Images from Pappas Miron.

Field Books and new Signature Pattern Binders from russell+hazel.

One of my most eagerly anticipated booth visits at the National Stationery Show this year was definitely that of Minneapolis-based, russell+hazel. Their booth absolutely did not disappoint. I had been 'ooh-ing' and 'ah-ing' over their most recent product catalog (you can download it here) and the setup of their booth was like walking into a real life version of it... story quotes on the walls, beautifully laid out work spaces outfitted with r+h product... even the crazy lightbulb light fixture from page 6 was hung above the front table!

When I spoke with Chris Plantan, founder, president & creative director of russell+hazel, prior to the show (mostly about how much I love r+h's products), I really got a sense of how passionate she (and everyone over at r+h) is about what they do. I love when you find out more about the companies & products you love and they only exceed your expectations!

3 new Mini Pattern Binders and 3 new Pattern Signature Binders!

(I can't wait to get my hands on one of these new mini binders!)

the interview:

E: What's new?

Chris: New patterns, colors & updates to the infamous Audrey Tote!... we also relaunched our Slicker Tote: a clear tote to hold the Audrey Tote... We featured this in our first catalog as a prop and had such an overwhelming response, we decided to go into full production.

E: What is the best (& worst) part about being an Exhibitor at NSS?

Chris: (The) best part is the people, of course!... meeting and re-connecting. And the worst part is the inability to use the bathroom or to rest your feet!... it does get tiring. It is so much work to prepare to go to the show: booth supplies, set-up, etc. But it's definitely well worth the effort!

E: Of all the places that currently sell your goods, what's your favorite shop?

Chris: My favorite is The Conran Shop in Manhattan... and our shop, of course!

E: Which part of your business do you enjoy the most?

Chris: The design (is) always our first love. We feel so intimate with our brand. We have an unabashed fondness for beautiful things and feel quite fortunate.

* * *

I want to thank both Chris and Dawn, r+h vice-president (pictured above!), for being so friendly and giving with their time. I had known for some time how professional the r+h company is - and it was a pleasure to meet, in person, some of the people behind the greatness.

left: Calendar Pad, Signature Three-Ring Binder (in my favorite, red-orange) and Large Stash Sack; right: Crystal Pencils...

Keep an eye out for those new r+h products launched at the show to show up on the shelves of some great stores near you!

pics by emily.

gothic tray (14" diameter), $18.00 at Elsewares.

After Laura went and made these adorable silhouettes depicting the two of us, well, I guess you could said I've gotten a bit silhouette-happy...

gothic side plates (9" diameter), set of 4, $28.00 at Elsewares.

For whatever reason, I'm completely drawn to the bold contrast of a seemingly detailed shape against a solid background... no shadows, no fuss... just a clean, interesting image, that almost always has a bit of story-telling going on.

gothic dinner plates (11" diameter), set of 4, $36.00 at Elsewares.

These plates by textile designer, Thomas Paul, are extra-enticing for me, since - not only are they beautiful silhouettes - they're also presented in simple black & white... a color 'palette' (if you can call it that ;) that has been very much on my mind lately.

pics c/o Elsewares.

I've been using this Mint Julep lip balm, from Bath & Body Works' Savannah Bee collection, for several months and I just can't get enough of it. The packaging design is lovely--slightly vintage, in a southern, Steel Magnolias kind of way. And I always fall for great packaging.

The scent is very subtly minty, which is good because I am extremely particular about scented lip products--I can't stomach anything too sweet, or that smells like chemicals, or beeswax, or a too-strong peppermint.

Best of all, is 100% natural, which I love because I can apply it, then eat or drink something without getting nasty chemicals and dyes in my system. Its description says it has no petroleum-based ingredients, parabens or preservatives, synthetic fragrances, or artificial colors. Nice!

Even better is I noticed it's on sale for only $2 a tube. I hope that doesn't mean they're discontinuing it--I will cry!

Image from Bath & Body Works.

Park Guell: Philip Greenspun © 2001.

8 days and counting until Jw and I leave for Barcelona!!!

For the last several months, I've been holding off on shopping for anything (clothes, bags & shoes, specifically) here in the States - so, that I'll have a nice chunk of cash to spend overseas... Yes, I am fully aware that the exchange rate is not in our favor, but I'd much rather say that I bought my awesome new Camper flats in Barcelona than in Soho!

Camper L'illa Barcelona: Marti Guixé © 2004.

Mango Store via ropaonline.net.

I also want to point out the dangerous proximity of one of the Camper stores to our hotel... RIDICULOUS.

Maybe each day will start with a nice walk, grabbing a cup of coffee & a little shoe-gazing... sounds like a proper vacation to me!

Maybe you've already seen my picks and Laura's picks from back in March...

well, here's some more - because there's always something awesome at Fred Flare!

clockwise from top left: Retro Record Player w/ Radio, $99; Slice of Cake Pouch, $14; Loyal Army Fruit Salad Tote, $24; Sprinkled Donut Pouch, $14 - all available at Fred Flare.

images c/o... Fred Flare!

If you're in Chicago this weekend, you should definitely check out the Old Town Art Fair, Saturday, the 9th and Sunday, the 10th from 10am to 6pm both days...

Here's just a sampling of some of my favorites (i.e. Gabe & Dolan) +plus some things I'm looking forward to seeing firsthand:

Booth 192 :: Gabe Lanza

How Dare You Come Back Here After What You Did, acrylic on wood, 18 x 24", by Gabe Lanza.

Booth 053 :: Lulu Smith

Hobnob Bracelet, hand pigmented resin & sterling silver, by Lulu Smith.

Booth 102 :: Nick Wroblewski

Pollinators Rest, hand cut wood block print, 7 x 10", by Nick Wroblewski.

Booth 091 :: Albert Koetsier / Beyond Light

Dalbergia, x-rayography print, by Albert Koetsier (Beyond Light).

Booth 108 :: Jennifer McCurdy

Net Candle, porcelain vessel, 5 x 5 x 5", by Jennifer McCurdy.

Booth 069 :: Mark Orr / Scavenger Art

Raven on Egg Feet with 10 Ball (old style), 9"h x 6"w x 3"d, by Mark Orr (Scavenger Art).

Booth 184 :: Dolan Geiman

Wax Poetic, acrylic, silk screen & paper on wood, each panel 16 x 14", 9 panels/set, by Dolan Geiman.

I've included their booth numbers, as well as links to each artist's website - so, if you're in Chicago - make a list and get over there this weekend. If you're not nearby, then definitely check out the sites and support these great artists from afar... and be sure to check each site for Event Information. Many of these artists travel the country exhibiting at similar shows in other areas... they may be at an art fair near you soon!!!

each pic c/o artist listed in the caption.

***POSTSCRIPT***

If you haven't already checked out the comments on this post - you should all know that Ali from Dolan Geiman is offering all you SCOOP readers 10% off your purchase from their booth (#184) this weekend!!! Now you have to go!... and don't forget to mention "the SCOOP"!

This room designed by Mark Christofi of Christofi Interiors has a great energy, most notably due to the large-scale wall detailing in an exaggerated Moroccan pattern. Usually when we think pattern on the wall it is smaller with several repeats--and I like how this designer worked outside of that convention.

See other fun photos of this space in Christofi's portfolio, here.

Photos by Eric Roth for Christofi Interiors.

delphine: (from right to left) Kathy, Lindsay, Erica (owner & my interviewee!) & Be (Erika's Mom!)... in their booth at NSS 2007.

delphine is a relatively recent discovering of mine... and well, I'm in love: You had me at beautifully-designed & blissfully bright-colored letterpress. I really love finding new design companies that are similar to mine, but - at the same time - leaps and bounds away with their own original style to bring to the table...

delphine's custom work:

Being a huge fan of working on custom projects myself, I definitely relate to delphine owner/designer, Erika Firm, in her undying love for her custom clients... Yes, it can be stressful wearing many different hats within a business: owner, designer, wholesaler, custom printer, etc... but it's also very satisfying - not to mention the fact that it never gets dull!

Custom work by delphine... both part of the Collection de Soirée.

the interview:

E: What's new?

Erika: We launched a slew of new products this year at NSS, including new greeting cards, a Woodland Series of notecards and journals, sweet holiday cards, a couple of notepads and some fun business card holders... all letterpress (except the notepads). The Woodland Series of notecards won an Outsanding Design Award from HOW (look for us in the October 2007 issue) and were also part of the best new product display at NSS!

two cards from delphine's Woodland Series collection of notecards & journals...

E: What's the best (& worst) part about participating in NSS?

Erika: This was my first year exhibiting... The past two years we did offsite events (invitation-only parties at hotels) which were really fun and successful, but I felt like it was finally time to show at NSS. For me the best part was getting a chance to catch up with friends: other manufacturers and regular customers. It was also fun to meet some of the editors of magazines that I admire so much. And of course it was great to hear feedback on the new designs.

The worst part (is that) the set up and break down is long and tedious. And wading through the intense package of rules and regulations as we planned for the booth was horrible...

I just couldn't resist posting this image Erika sent me of the union workers at the Javits Center... very much part of the reason why set up & break down of the show are both long & tedious.

E: Of all the stores that currently sell your products, what are some of your favorites?

Erika: My very favorite two stores are SoLo and Dreamy:

Carole Carden, SoLo owner, has been a mentor to me and is a huge supporter of local design (and, really, of good design in general). She has taught me a lot about being in business for myself.

Heather O'Quinn, owner of Dreamy, is the perfect model of a store owner: polite, honest, and just truly wonderful to work with.

Also, I hope to add a small shopping section on my site this year with limited edition prints and limited edition cards!

E: Which part of your business do you enjoy the most?

Erika: My favorite part of the business is designing new cards. I love trying to forecast what a buyer will be looking for, what will be 'in' next season, what will sell... what i won't be sick of in 6 months. I also really enjoy working with clients one-on-one, especially brides (they are SO excited) and designing corporate identities for startups. As a business owner myself, I really identify with the challenges my clients face as they launch a new company. 

E: Anything else? 

Erika: We will exhibit at the ATLANTA Gift Show this July. Please stop by to chat if you'll be there. Thanks so much for supporting design and the craft of letterpress!

* * *

All my thanks to Erika for being AWESOME and not only answering my interview questions, but also sending me all of the great pics you see in this post!... Thanks!!!

This Kissing Pleat bedding from Anthropologie looks just like lighter-than-air meringue. Imagine getting into a fluffy bed like this--how luxurious!

For purpose of comparison I had to post an image of actual meringue. This is from an article by Fiona Haynes, called "How to Make Great Meringue"--in case you get inspired!

Top image from Anthropologie catalog. Bottom image from About.com.

Jess over at How About Orange... is always posting these great tutorials that are really accessible & inspiring...

Today's project is both easy & quick, but the end result is adorable.

Kudos, Jess... love it!

pic c/o Jess.

Interior designer Kelly Wearstler also creates some beautiful products, including fabric and wallcoverings that have been available for some time. This year, she debuted a carpet collection for Patterson, Flynn & Martin and while I could never dream of actually having one in my house, I enjoy this image of all the patterns together.

Up next from Wearstler: a collection of bed linens and tabletop. Can't wait to see them...or at least appreciate from afar.

Image from kwid.com.

Crosshatch Big Wallet by Orla Kiely, $78.00 at Flight 001.

I'm a big fan of the incomparable Orla Kiely label and the innovative travel shop, Flight 001 (pronounced "flight one"... and all this time, I've been saying "zero zero one"!)...

and I guess, part of my love for Flight 001 must be due to their extensive collection of Orla Kiely bags...

Dahlias Sling Bag, in Stone, by Orla Kiely, $325.00 at Flight 001.

Cars Shoulder Bag, $180.00, and Cars Handbag, $195.00, both available at Flight 001.

I love the Cars print... and it's available in 4 different bag styles: the shoulder bag & handbag, as well as a wheelie bag and large wheelie travel suitcase and three colors (red, blue & green).

If I weren't saving up to spend money in Barcelona, I would definitely be picking up this bag for my travels... I LOVE it!

For more on Flight 001, check out one of Jw's past MoCoLoco posts.

bag pics c/o Flight 001; Flight 001 Chicago photo c/o Jw.

Geisha wrap, $9.95 for 2 sheets, 19 x 27", available at Sam Flax NY.

I am CRAZY about eieio wrapping paper... it's STUNNING. I wrapped all of Jw's gifts last Christmas in the Mesh wrap (which I purchased at Anjénu here in Chicago) ...and, over the years, I've designed multiple invitations using the Volume, Play and Fiber wraps as belly bands, envelope liners & flush-mounted backings...

Visiting the eieio booth at NSS was like being in the best card shop I could possibly imagine: all the wraps hanging up on the wall... new products, including tubes (shown above) covered in some of their signature papers +plus a whole new line of cards (!). I love their long, narrow format... and the trademark 'eieio' style in the patterns.

Plummy and Charm wrapping papers, $3.50/sheet at Luxe Paperie.

Flower Pop and La Fonda wrapping paper, each $3.75/sheet at The Paper Studio.

Above are just some select wrap designs from the eieio website... definitely, take the time to browse through all of them - you won't be sorry!

And if you like what you see, be sure to check here for a store near you that carries eieio products.

I posted a little bit about 9-time NSS Exhibitors, Rock Paper Scissor, back at the end of April... and now, here's a more in-depth post that includes an interview with one of the Bauer sisters, Heidi. (That's her on the right... along with business partner/co-owner/sister-for-life, Susie, on the left.)

the interview:

E: What's new?

Heidi: As always we're really excited about our Holiday offerings. We debuted quite a few new styles at the Stationery Show, many of which have messages of Peace, something we personally are thinking a lot about these days. We also debuted a collection of holiday coasters that were received really well. They are fun and graphic to have around the house during the holidays, as well as a perfect hostess gift to bring to holiday parties.

We also debuted a brand new collection of greeting cards that combine our signature graphics on the front with beautiful full color "printed" vintage fabric on the inside. We scanned in pieces of vintage fabric from our own collection and used them to accent our designs. The result? A card that's gorgeous inside and out!

E: What was the best part about participating in NSS 2007?

Heidi: Our favorite part about the National Stationery Show is the fact that we get to see so many people....both friends, fellow manufacturers and store buyers. It's always exciting to see people physically interact with our product. The worst part would have to be standing in cute high heels all day!

We've been doing the Stationery Show for 9 years now, and have seen the show change each year. It was very sad to see that attendance from buyers keeps shrinking even though there are so many fabulous things being exhibited by great companies.

E: Of all the places that currently sell your goods, what's your favorite shop/boutique/online store?

Heidi: Well of course we are partial to our own website, for the mere reason that the customer gets to experience the full range of what we design.

E: Which part of your business do you enjoy the most?

Heidi: The thing we love the most is constantly creating new designs that are an extension of who we are and what we love in our personal lives. We love that by owning our own business we get to do it all....marketing, public relations, sales, design, product development. Who (else) gets to do all of that at their job?

...and being sisters, the best part is that we get to work together every day in our own little creative world!

* * *

Thanks so much to Heidi & Susie both for being so gracious with their time at the show, and to Heidi again for answer my interview questions... I've loved talking with these women about their business and its ups and downs. It's encouraging to see how successful they are and how satisfying it is for them to be designing and creating product that they really love. From what I can tell, they run their business with care, ethical commitment & professionalism. As a customer, I love their stuff - and as a fellow business owner, they definitely have my respect!...

pics by emily.

Speaking of Granville, Ohio (see Amy Butler post here)...another creative woman in that town runs a business called Granville Millinery Company. Artist and founder, Amy Hamilton, has a beautiful studio converted from a former horse barn on her 6-acre property in Granville that is featured in the latest issue of O at Home magazine. As beautiful as the space is, the hats are amazing! Imaginative, stylish and sometimes daring, I wish I had the occasion or guts to wear some of the most dramatic creations. Here, I've chosen two very wearable options: "Flower Study" (above), I could see wearing to a formal wedding as a guest, bridesmaid or even a bride; "Sunday Paper" (below) I could see on Emily of course!

Amy Hamilton majored in Fashion Design at the Columbus College of Art and Design, and while there she did a project making a collection of 20's-inspired clothing and cloches, which led to her current career. Looks like I will need to take a day trip to Granville to check out all the creativity taking place there.

Hat images from Granville Millinery Company. Millinery studio image from O at Home.

While browsing through desire to inspire, this post on photographer Gemma Comas really caught my eye... the room images included in the post are spectacular, but I was really drawn to this still life pic (above) from Gemma Comas' website.

I love the pillow/wall/lamp art in the image on the right... Jw and I have plans to design a large vinyl graphic for behind our bed, to serve as a visual headboard. Now, I can't stop imaging GOCCO-printing a pillowcase & lampshade to match!

all pics © 2006 Gemma Comas Photography.

After Laura put up this post about her AMH Design project from a few months ago, I wanted to make sure that I visited their booth at NSS 2007...

Not only was it nice to meet designer/owner, Amy Holbrook, in person, it was also great to see some of her new products, including stitch-able/customizable paperback journals & a needlepoint Nano case!!!

the interview:

E: What's new?

Amy: I have two new types of needlepoint kits that I am really excited about. The first is an iPod case needlepoint kit. The kit comes with die cut pieces of plastic canvas that fit either the Nano or the video size (the latest generation), an instruction booklet, needles & needle threader, charted letters to personalize the case with your initial, and enough cotton thread to stitch the stripe pattern or any two contrasting colors for a more classic look. The case is a super fun way to make your iPod stand out while protecting it from scratching.

The second new product is a collection of stitchable paper journals. These paper journals are printed with bold geometric patterns and have small areas of laser cut holes so that you can needlepoint your initial right onto the cover...

E: What was the best part about participating in NSS 2007?

Amy: This was my first time exhibiting at the NSS so it was all new to me. The best part of the show was meeting so many of the talented stationery designers whose products I have admired in stores and online for so long. I also really enjoyed the small sort of community that formed on my aisle between the various booths. By the end of the 3.5 days I knew more about most of my neighbors than I know about some of my friends.

E: Of all the places that currently sell your goods, what's your favorite shop/boutique/online store?

Amy: I sell my kits online and through needlepoint, knitting and gift stores all across the US. I don’t play favorites with my stores (I love them all!), but the store with the most amusing name I sell through would definitely be The Hooker’s Nook! Love it!

E: Which part of your business do you enjoy the most?

Amy: I love coming up with contemporary patterns and uses for needlepoint. I also love stitching the projects to make sure they are easy to do and that they look good when finished. I am the guinea pig (along with some patient friends) for all of my kits.

* * *

I totally want to trade in my iShuffle for a Nano just so I can make one of the iPod cases w/ a big "e" on the front!

Thanks so much to Amy for taking the time to answer my questions!... I can't wait to see more patterns and kits from AMH in the future!!!

pics c/o AMH Designs, LLC.

The best part about attending NSS 2007 as Press, rather than an Exhibitor, was definitely 'discovering' new artists and designers that I wasn't familiar with previous to this year's show...

Joy by Mel Lim was one of those booths for me... the booth itself felt like a sweet little boutique that I would love to shop at. Once inside, it was like eye candy everywhere you looked: gorgeous embroidered pillows, lush & beautifully-illustrated wrapping paper & (new @ the show and my favorite!) little ultrasuede zipper pouches... shown in the pic above (right).

Mel's product is really the complete package... the illustrations are stunning; the color combinations are unique & eye-catching; the packaging is clean, attractive & purposeful. Joy by Mel Lim is definitely one of my new favs...

Check here to find a store near you where these great products are sold!

pics by emily.

I enjoy this print by artist Dan-ah Kim. Something about the composition, colors, and detail work on the branches...plus the title seems appropriate for today, because I just stepped outside and it's so chilly compared to the weather we've become accustomed to the past few weeks!

"While I Wait for Spring" is available for $30 in D.Kim's etsy store and is printed on very heavy, 8.5 x 11 paper. Other prints I really like include "Making Pictures" and "Today, the Blues".

Image from D.Kim-Art via etsy.

So, I've added some of the letterpress line to the OrangeBeautiful Etsy Shop...

There are single cards & boxed sets available - and I'll be added more soon!... If there are any cards from the line that you're interested in purchasing, just let me know - and I'll put them up in the shop!

Marnie, all the way in Singapore (!) bought two of my cards just the other day... and she was kind enough to post about them on her blog! Thanks, Marnie!!! I can't wait for you to see them in person!

image by emily

Monkeys wrap and Blossom wrap, $6.00 for two 30 x 41.25" sheets & Sputnik Notebooks, $10.00/ea... all available at Amadon.

I've been a long-time admirer of Anvil Paper's line of Japanese-inspired wraps, and it was great to see even more great design from them at NSS this year...

Some of my favorite wraps were displayed, along with the great matching gift cards... And I always love when great patterns are extrapolated into a wide array of products: Anvil has wrapping paper, gift cards, gift bags, journals & (new at the show!) candles!

I love the new Monkeys pattern most of all!! I may have to pick up one of the Monkeys notebooks to use as a new sketchbook!!!

pics by me.

Back in October, our landlord outfitted the entire house (our apartment is the 2nd floor of a single family home) with lovely new windows...

When the installation took place, all of the existing window treatments (not-so-lovely white mini-blinds) were removed... and, well - we couldn't bear to put them back.

This weekend, I started (what I'm sure will prove to be) the immense project of making all the window treatments for the whole apartment (!) - In my previous homes, this wouldn't be that much of an endeavor (my last place - a studio loft - only had 3 windows!)... but this place has - count 'em - EIGHTEEN windows! I'm sure I'll be using my copy of Simple Sewing multiple times while working on these!...

These are the first three - in the front sunroom... only 15 to go! Wish me luck!

pics by Jw.

***POSTSCRIPT***

Jess recognized the fabric right away... I got it at the Schaumburg IKEA. It's not available for purchase online (only $6.99/yd.), but you can view it right here. According to the seams, the designer is Linda Svensson © 2005.

I am a fan of anything Amy Butler does. She runs her design studio (called Art of the Midwest), which creates enormously popular fabrics, patterns, books, and now even paper crafts and stationery, out of small-town Granville, Ohio. I love to see a creative, proud-to-be-Midwestern girl make it big!

Amy’s latest home décor fabric incarnation is the lovely Nigella line. Above are three of my favorite fabrics and colorways from the collection (though I wouldn’t necessarily put these together): clockwise from top left, “Water Lotus” in Ivory, “Imperial Fans” in Dark Green (this reminds me of Florence Broadhurst somehow), and “Ritzy Stripe” in Forest.

I am always finding fabrics that I love, but don’t really know what to do with them. That’s why I like these Gum Drop pillows, for which Amy offers an “easy to make” pattern. I would love to make 2 of the 24” pillows to use in place of an ottoman. I think my sewing machine needs to make its virgin voyage…because I love this idea.

Images copyright amybutlerdesign.com.

Sky Umbrella, designed by Tibor Kalman, $48.00, available at MoMA store.

It's been raining on and off here in Chicao for a few days... and it's supposed to rain more this week.

Kate Spade Riley rain boots (off-white w/ red daisies), $128.95, available at Zappos.com.

But who needs good weather when you have accessories like these!!!

pics (top to bottom) c/o MoMA store and Zappos.com

So, I'm fully aware that I was born in the 1970's and not in the 1990's - but I will confess that I am an devoted Delia*s customer...

I know that this company's target demographic is most likely 10-18 year old girls, but I just LOVE their fun clothes... and well, no amount of responsibility, business-owning or getting-older-ness is going to stop me from shopping there!

Plus, they have SO many Loyal Army products!!! These tees just kill me. I already have this one, this one and don't forget this!... but you can't have too many colorful t-shirts with smiling inanimate objects drawn on them, can you?

from top to bottom: Happy Heart Rainbow Tee, Lunch Buddies Tee and Happy Flowers Tee, all $24/each or buy 1 get 1 half off, at Delia*s.

pics c/o Delia*s.

I am still loving the patent look and especially in black and white...this "Chambers" slingback ($25) from Abaete's new collection for Payless is really well-proportioned with a great contrasting cone-shaped heel.

These sunglasses ($14), also from the summer collection, have the same substantial, graphic black-and-white look--very sharp. (And what a deal!)

Images from Payless.

okay, so I know I totally missed posting the May page of my wall calendar from JHill Design... but June definitely makes it worth the wait!

Not only is it ORANGE... it is for June - the month I was born - and it features Spain: my vacation destination coming up in just a few weeks!!!

Love it!

Now the wall calendars are currently sold out, but you can email Jennifer link at the bottom of this page about reprint information... And if you just can't wait, the desk calendars are still available for $15.00.

top image by emily, bottom image c/o JHill Design.

***POSTSCRIPT***

For those of you in the Boston area (specifically Jamaica Plain - Bret & Ingrid, I'm talking to you!), there will be an EtsyBoston show this Thursday (June 7th) as a part of Jamaica Plain's First Thursdays.

Click here for more information and to see a list of those artists participating (which include JHill Design!)...