the SCOOP

Designer Profile :: Richard Shipps

kat@orangebeautiful.com — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 04:57:34 GMT

With previous posts on Nikki McClure and Matthew Sporzynski, you're familiar with my love of paper and specifically the very talented artists that transform it into landscapes of amazing detail and imagination.

Local artist Richard Shipps opens up the inner parts of his paper creations to reveal amazing things that pop, fold and are crafted with precision and focus upon light and shadows.

We originally met because our dogs Oscar and Zaney are good buddies and would sniff and say hello on walks in the neighborhood.

Soon I discovered that he was the designer of the amazing creations hanging throughout the home he shares with his wife Pat, an Executive Producer and Creative Director.

His work has expanded to free form sculptures and mobiles as well.

Come and check out the opening of his new show FORM: expressed and implied at First Thursday on September 2nd. The opening reception is from 5:30 - 9:00pm at 220 S Wabash (Adams L stop) and is in conjunction with the Chicago Loop Alliance Pop-Up Art Loop Galleries and Chicago Artists' Coalition.

The Pop-Up Art Loop Gallery Walk is a free, self-guided tour of the many new art venues throughout the Loop neighborhood. It takes place on the First Thursday of every month,and very effectively transforms the Loop into a vibrant arts district by creating temporary art exhibitions from underutilized office and retail space.

Good for the artists, good for the Loop. See you there!

Baby news

laura@orangebeautiful.com — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 13:22:04 GMT

A month has come and gone, and so I'm (finally!) back on the blog to announce that James Christopher arrived on August 1. He is delightful - a sweet, easygoing little boy with a tendency to make faces like the dramatic squirrel. We're adjusting quite nicely to life as a family of four!

Though my head has been slightly out of the design world, I thought I would share this beautiful, oversize board book I found shortly after James was born. Art for Baby is perfect for those early newborn days when babies stay awake for approximately 5 minutes between eating and the next nap, and can't yet see in color. Aesthetically inclined parents will appreciate the lineup of artists whose work appears on the black-and-white pages, including Keith Haring, Takashi Murakami, and Julian Opie. Even the cover is beautiful, a pearlized white background with silver block type.

Clockwise from top left: Duck by Patrick Caulfield; Together by Josef Albers; Hypovase Prazosin Hydrochloride by Damien Hirst; Black Cross by Kazimir Malevich.

(Thank you so much for all your lovely comments on James' nursery, by the way. You are so kind and thoughtful! I'm saving all the comments to show James someday!)

Carry On! :: Hooray for Tucker!

emily@orangebeautiful.com — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 06:45:00 GMT

After Kat's post about Target's new GO International Collection: Tucker by Gaby Basora, I thought I'd share my three favorite looks from the upcoming line:

outfits shown, left to right ::

Signature Blouse in Cream, $29.99 Tunic Dress in Orange, $39.99 // Signature Dress in Diamond Print, $39.99 // Hooded Wrap Jacket in Orange Herringbone, $44.99 Tunic Sweater in Brown Stripe, $44.99 Ribbed Sweater Dress in Orange, $39.99

images via Target GO International Look Book

Hooray for Tucker!

kat@orangebeautiful.com — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 18:00:19 GMT

Target announced that the next designer featured in the GO International Collection will be Tucker by Gaby Basora.

You stylish mavens should run on down to Target from 9/12 - 10/17 and scoop up as many pieces as you can. Adorable! The collection is an eclectic mix of bohemian-chic bold prints and versatile shapes that are ideal for layering. Such great color and feminine styles with multiple pieces that quickly go from casual to ooh la la!

Trench in Green Herringbone, $59.99 Signature Dress in Lawn Bird Print, $39.99 Camisole Dress in Butterfly Print, $34.99

Tie-Front Blouse in Orange Polka-Dot Print, $24.99 Skirt in Orange Herringbone, $34.99

Persian Bomber in Black, $79.99 Camisole in Butterfly Print, $22.99 Brocade Skirt in Gold/Navy, $39.99

images via Target GO International Look Book

New on Supermarket :: Poppy and Moe

emily@orangebeautiful.com — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Whenever new shops open up over on Supermarket, they're bound to be filled with gorgeous things... the fine folks who run the site wouldn't have it any other way.

My new favorite shop is Poppy and Moe, a Eugene, OR based company, specializing in lovely, sustainable clothing, hand-printed with vintage-style graphics.

Best of all, P&M's tees start at a mere $20, so, quite frankly, I'll be snatching up two or three for myself ;)

images via Poppy and Moe

the new J.Crew catalog just blew my mind...

emily@orangebeautiful.com — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 15:30:00 GMT

Whenever a new catalog from J.Crew arrives, I know that I'm bound to find multiple bits of inspiration... and not just fashion inspiration :: as a designer, I love browsing through anything that includes product styling, new & interesting color combinations, and page after page of well-used typefaces.

This time around, however, they went and kinda blew me away with an it's-so-obvious accessory trick :: wear two belts at the same time, idiot!

Now you can always layer on two, three, four belts at a time, but this involves actually buckling one belt to another... so, it really only works with two of the same style/make of belt. (Which J.Crew has for you in spades.) - I'm very happy to use my colorful leather skinnies, handmade by Studio Amiel.

I may have to stock up on even more just so that I can have more two-belts-at-once combinations!

IMOOI jewelry | Have VS. Want

emily@orangebeautiful.com — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 13:45:00 GMT

I'm a huge fan of all of the jewelry from NY company, IMOOI (the name is derived from the Dutch word for "beautiful") - here's a grouping of the pieces I'm lucky enough to already own, followed by the (short) list of what I'd love to add to my collection ::

HAVE clockwise from top left :: Crescent Necklace in Green, $65.00 // Vine Earrings in White, $80.00 // Orbit Ring in Yellow, $55.00 // Pop Earrings in Red, $55.00 // Orbit Bracelet in Yellow, $90.00.

WANT clockwise from top left :: Swirl Earrings, $55.00 // Bullseye Earrings in Blue, $55.00 // Spectrum Necklace, $80.00 // Formula Bracelet in Cream, $85.00 // Vertigo Ring in Red, $55.00 // Safari Earrings in Green, $55.00.

Visit IMOOI.com now to make your own "want" list...

Inspiration for the desk and keychain

kat@orangebeautiful.com — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 10:59:48 GMT

Decide on being happy, positive, creative, or if you just want to BE for the day.

Designer Tamara Hensick casts her nature and word inspired creations in metals of zinc, bronze and sterling as friendly reminders to breathe deeply and move along.

Found locally in Chicago at Fixture in Roscoe Village and this link shows you catalog options and other retailers nationwide.

images via Tamara Hensick

A star is born

kat@orangebeautiful.com — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 15:54:34 GMT

A BIG Congratulations to Emily Henderson, who was awarded the title of HGTV Design Star yesterday. Few 'reality' shows keep true to providing interesting content, but Design Star always keeps me tuned in. She's the fourth winner of the series, and presented such a great combination of her talents and personality to each challenge.

She's a prop stylist that trained in NYC but has been working in CA recently. I think she's about to get a lot busier!

Check out her very adorable blog The Brass Petal that followed her journey. Chock full of wit and ideas, I can't wait to see what she'll be styling next.

images via HGTV.

I'm not in school, but I still want new supplies!

kat@orangebeautiful.com — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 16:18:56 GMT

Yes, ever since I was a wee little Kat, I have *loved* getting new school supplies. There was always a little adrenaline buzz I got from choosing new folders, color coordinated notebooks and just the right pencil box to contain fresh, new supplies.

These days, the choices are endless compared to my days of the primary colored Mead spirals and Trapper Keepers with the kittens on top.

You can let your personality ring out with these lovely choices:

from top right

Origami Sticky Notes @ Delight $3.95 for 100 sheets and 10 pages of instructions

Suger G Color Me Backpack at Organize.com $34.99 for the right to doodle a custom pack. Comes with 3 permanent markers.

Greek Key file folders at Jonathan Adler $9.99 for six. Other patterns too!

Russel + Hazel Chicklet Adhesive Notes Set at Organize.com $11.99 for eight pad (four colors of 50 sheets each]

How great would this combination look on your desk?!

Sparrows Nest Paper Clip Holder from Urban Outfitters $4.99 on sale

MUJI Colored Pencil Set from MOMA $17.00 for 36 pencils and carrying carton

Geometric Pencil Box from Mozellemotana $30.00

No sandwich crust worries here!

Puzzle Piece Sandwich Cutters at Uncommon Goods $14.00

Vintage Alphabet Lunch Bag at Organize.com $15.49

the best part about being a shop owner...

emily@orangebeautiful.com — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 09:50:00 GMT

...is buying new stuff for the store!

I definitely anticipated that I would thoroughly enjoy my job as "Buyer" for the new shop half of OrangeBeautiful - but it's even more like Christmas than I could've realized.

Boxes of goodies show up nearly every week, and you get to pour over the most amazing items... and they're all things you picked out! What could be better? (hmmm... taking it all home, I guess ;)

Here's a little, tiny sneak peek at some new lines that we'll be carrying in the fall... Folded Felt Screen-Printed bowls from Meghan Burch (top image); absolutely stunning jewelry from Cursive Design (middle image); and delightful, hand-designed screen-printed cards + prints from Gold Teeth Brooklyn ::

I can't wait 'til it all arrives!

if only this were real... | USPS redesign

emily@orangebeautiful.com — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 09:30:00 GMT

If I worked for the United States Postal Service and had any power to have their "look" changed, I'd be on the phone this morning with designer, Matt Chase...

His re-visualization of everything from packing tape to workers' uniforms to a paper, die-cut stamp dispenser (!) is nothing short of completely awesome...

via designworklife

I will never get tired of this...

emily@orangebeautiful.com — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 13:50:00 GMT

After posting about these, I had the (very brief) thought that building furniture out of repurposed, mix-n-match drawers had the potential to get boring, or feel a little too clever after a while...

...but it turns out that every time I see another one of these types of drawer units, I just get more and more anxious about having a dresser like this in my home.

These particular pieces are made by German design studio, Entwurf-Direkt, breathing new life into old, discarded drawers and other furniture pieces ::

"Our wish is to revive the very beauty of those things, the life they have lived � in a manner that is both fresh and simple."

via Design Milk

inspiration :: window dressing...

emily@orangebeautiful.com — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 11:00:00 GMT

Now that we're exactly three months into the world of retail, I'm becoming increasingly obsessed with finding inspiring ways to fill the windows of our shop. The side window is easy... that will always be filled with the work of others (like this amazing person and this this other amazing person). But I really want for the front window and the store displays in general to be innovative, beautiful and ever-changing...

Here are a few pics of some very drool-worthy windows that I've been adding to OB's Flickr favorites lately. And, as you might expect, several of them are from Anthropologie ;)

For more details on all of these images, visit OB's Flickr favorites.

smokin' hot & cool as ice...

emily@orangebeautiful.com — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 13:30:00 GMT

The weather lately has got me feeling way too hot, and craving much cooler temperatures. Here are a few hot+color items to aggravate things further ;)

Yellow Fire Agate and Quartz Necklace, $55.00 and Aquamarine Ice on Silver Earrings, $26.00; both by Krista Peel.

Hot vs. Cold Print, $20.00 by gneural.

Prairie Campfire, $116.00 by Maandag.

Popsicle Print (8x10"), $12.00 by Mint Buttercup.

stainless steel bookmarks, $9.00/each; by pink tank ltd.

So, is it fall yet?

our house is a very, very, very fine house...

emily@orangebeautiful.com — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 12:30:00 GMT

The home that Jw and I share is definitely a crazy one... we really like stuff and we tend to be doing projects (paper, design, music, etc.) all the time. So, it makes sense that Apartment Therapy would post a quick feature on our place, with the very appropriate title, "Josh & Emily's Project-Friendly Apartment"!...

Here are a just few quick pics from the house tour, but be sure to check out the full slideshow and our interview about everything from our style inspirations to our biggest induldence...

You've seen our studio+shop, now enjoy this sneak peek into our tidied-up-for-the-camera living space!

Thanks to Jason Loper and Apartment Therapy

Tidying up a bit

kat@orangebeautiful.com — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 17:31:22 GMT

It seems that Country Living has decided to follow the theme of the August cover and make itself over a bit. Ever since Domino departed, I've been reading this publication a bit more. It's fresh, full of great resources and the real estate sampler kills me each month with jaw dropping deals on quaint, historic homes around the country.

There is a change in the size of the magazine (20% increase in the footprint of the mag) and a change in font type for the logo.

I remember when Dwell made some changes in 2008 and some loyal readers freaked out.

Mine arrived on the weekend and I noticed the font change right away (amazing what type can do huh?). Personally, I like the original a bit more, but change is good right?

New perspective and hopefully new readers for what is a great design resource.

A bit of guidance is always helpful

kat@orangebeautiful.com — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 11:29:47 GMT

I have my favorite set of go-to fonts when I'm working on a project, but this genius flow chart of type could be especially inspiring.

I came across this on FPO and was really intrigued by the fresh, cheeky humor of designer Julian Hansen. Created for a project at the Danish School of Media and Journalism in Copenhagen, I'm hoping Julian got a big, fat Cooper Black A!

You can have your own 24 x 18 poster for $22.00 from Scribble on Everything.

They were quick to also pick up the production rights and offer up The Periodic Table of Typefaces Poster designed by Camdon Wilde.

Vinyl Wall Decal available for $49.00

images via FPO and Scribble on Everything.

Nature inspired nuptials

kat@orangebeautiful.com — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 07:05:58 GMT

After years of reading countless wedding and design inspired magazines, there are a few photos that still stand out in my mind. Something about them that captured the moment and setting so perfectly, that I've gone back several times to study the shot.

Here is one of them....

and two more from the same event.

Shot in France's Loire Valley by Elizabeth Messina for the wedding of Jeri Ryan and Christopher Eme, this layout was featured in InStyle Weddings 2007. (All venue details can be found at The Lane. It was such a beautiful setting; so intimate, and inspired by their love of nature, food and family.

So when one of my college besties, T, announced her engagement, not only was I thrilled, but especially excited that they are planning a ceremony in a lovely state park, with a reception following at a charming local farm. It was an added bonus that I got to design the wedding invitations for them too!

T and J both love spending time outdoors and live their lives to enhance eco living, gardening and breathing fresh MN air!

While looking for design inspiration, I came across some amazing outdoor farm/barn venues that have been the backdrop for some truly spectacular events.

images via The Enchanted Barn in Hillsdale, WI.

images via the very talented Clayton Austin from a wedding at Santa Margarita Ranch in CA.

If you are looking for an similar outdoor venue, check out The Barn Journal for nationwide options.

all these jobs are wearing me out...

emily@orangebeautiful.com — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 12:30:00 GMT

that's what she said letterpress card, from Spiffy Press

It's been quite a while since I last posted... we've been extremely busy here at the shop. Lots of new press, waiting for votes to be tabulated at TimeOut Chicago and minted., receiving a ton of new product, making a ton of new product, and - all the while - working on a slew of new (and really exciting) custom orders!

Whew!
Just thinking about the last week and a half makes me tired all over again...

skinny mini pencil cases, from The B Hive

If you're able to drop into the shop, we've got new Skinny Mini pencil cases from The B Hive (remember my case, that I posted about back in February?)...

We've also finally ordered up a ton of Divine Twine (100% cotton baker's twine, in 8 colors!) to sell by the yard and by the spool... I can't wait to pair some of the yellow + pink with our S&G wrapping paper!

out new shipment of Divine Twine, from Whisker Graphics

a sneak peek at an amazing project that we're working on at the moment...

We've also been keeping busy in the studio half of the shop... I'm gonna keep this one a secret for a little while longer, but oh man it's good. I'll give you a hint: it involves paper, letterpress printing and awesome-ness. But I guess all of our projects do, huh?

hand-felted pods by Ravenswood-local artist, Karen Redford... every time one of these sells, I feel a little sad. But at least they always go to a loving home ;)

For all of you who voted for us on minted. and for the Shopping Awards over at TO Chicago - thank you SO much!...

Also, be sure to add yourself to the OB mailing list this week. Our August newsletter goes out Monday morning!

time for me to take a nap...

Bring on the Fall Line...

kat@orangebeautiful.com — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 11:10:17 GMT

I was drinking coffee on my balcony this morning and enjoying the morning sunshine and warm weather, certainly not thinking about seasons changing yet. Then, I started going through the mail and saw Boden's new fall catalog.

Whoa.

This is my first post that is strictly all from one source, but I was really floored by the colors, textures and print options. Every page had something I liked, but I was also picking out things I know Laura and Emily would love too!

Shoes, glorious shoes! 1: Patent Leather Boots in Mole, $278.00

2 & 4: Bloomsbury T-Bars in suede Magenta or Teal, $188.00

3: Ruffle Shoe Boots in Aubergine, $198.00

I'd like one of each please. (all come in more colors too!) left Color Block Milano Coat in Charcoal Melange, $168.00

right Washed Velvet Coat in Sea Green, $218.00

left Islington Coat in Green, $248.00

right Carnaby Coat in Winter White, $138.00

Now, it's just icing on the cake.. Corsage Necklace in Ocean Blue, $64.00

Stripy Scarf Merino Wool in Charcoal/Sulphur, $48.00

Leather Messenger Bag in Pewter Metallic, $108.00

Abstract Necklace in Moss, $64.00

all images from Boden USA and everything comes in more color options too

Baby James' Nursery

laura@orangebeautiful.com — Tue, 27 Jul 2010 11:53:21 GMT

With less than a week to go till our son's arrival, I thought I'd share pictures of his nursery. It's done, though I feel it still needs some warming up here and there (and I'm open to suggestions!). We've decided to name our baby James Christopher and we can't wait to meet him!

We kept many of the elements from Catherine's nursery and just put a masculine spin on her existing stuff. We still have the Jenny Lind-style crib (though it might get replaced, due to the drop-side crib recall. We have a "repair kit" on order to make the drop side stationary, but we'll see.) The Binth numbers poster is perfect for a nursery, so I just pulled color inspiration from its blue-gray, chartreuse and brick color palette. And the Baltic rocking horse reflects the finish of the birch bookshelf behind the crib; it also gives Catherine something to do while I'm feeding or changing the baby. (I got the chartreuse Moroccan-motif hampers - one is pictured behind the rocking horse - from Homegoods. One is for clothing and another for plush baby toys, which always seem to multiply.)

I decided to do a different DIY mobile from Catherine's, this time using these adorable paper owls from Mibo. You pay $3 to download a PDF file, which you can print and replicate as many times as you want and then just trim and assemble the birds out of card stock (I used 60# weight for flexibility). There are also a pair of Mibo owls "perched" on the top of the doorframe, which is visible from the crib.

I've been combing local resale shops for infant boy clothing, since we are building a wardrobe from scratch - and what a goldmine I found! It seems that shopping for sizes 0-3 and 3-6 months in particular yields a good deal of barely worn (some still with tags) items from great kid brands like Tea, Janie & Jack, H&M, and Gap. All the "outfits" shown here were bought resale.

The Monte Luca glider from Catherine's nursery was also brought over. I updated it with a blue-gray Jonathan Adler wool boucle pillow I found at Burlington Coat Factory. In the empty space between the glider and the dresser / changing table we're putting a black Kulla floor lamp, but just haven't purchased it yet.

Besides the Binth poster and the marbelized paper that hangs over the changing table, the room needed some art. One of my favorite Etsy artists, Chad Wys, creates beautiful (and affordable) abstract landscape paintings that I knew would be perfect for this room. (I actually think the one on the top looks like a Tyrannosaurus Rex head!) The crib bedding is minimal, with only a DwellStudio for Target blanket (for show only) and horizontal stripe crib skirt, plus my favorite organic jersey fitted crib sheet. The stuffed puppy is from Anthropologie and, again, will not sit inside the crib (nor will the chevron pillow, pictured below - they're for styling purposes only).

It's a tiny and simple room, which is what I wanted all along. Incidentally, we chose Benjamin Moore's "Quiet Moments" for the wall color, which is likely wishful thinking for some good sleeping karma. I'm thinking one of those cute sheepskins from IKEA on the floor would help warm it up a bit. I am still looking for a vintage-y side table and one or two other small vintage elements to give all the "newer" pieces some depth. Any other thoughts or ideas?

Surprising myself :: circus style

laura@orangebeautiful.com — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 00:00:03 GMT

I think color and I are about to have a fling.

I am neutral-with-a-twist. I am black-and-white, plus a pastel and metallic. I am usually not bold and when I go bold, it's with a SINGLE standout element. Perhaps that's how I'll break into this new phase, just a piece at a time. Because I'm drawn right now to things that remind me, however literally or indirectly, of the Big Top...

Ellie Bag from Rubie Green. Take a deep breath and start with a bright color and big pattern - on a sweet little clutch.

Party Necklace from Cursive Design. Each little element is so interesting - there's several things going on at once, but in the best way.

Goodwin Grand Sofa in ikat linen/cotton print, from West Elm. Even my husband likes the idea of this allover, bold pattern on the most major piece of furniture in the room, which is so not like us, but makes me think it would be so fun to try.

Desert Swirl Table Lamp from Shades of Light. I've loved this forever, and thought it was too colorful for me, but now...

Rock Candy Crystal Sticks from Oh Nuts. Concessions at their absolute prettiest. (I have a vision of dipping these in a Champagne spritzer and watching the candy dissolve and fizz.)

The entire Summer Collection of nail polishes from Essie. The lilac and mauve shades are right up my alley, but what I like most about them is how they're paired with the lime...and the hot pink...

Vintage Recovered Book from NEAPOLITAN. Now in my shop: a classic book covered in a truly standout paper.

Girls Jelly Sandals from Gap. Don't these just look like air-spun cotton candy? Why oh why do they not have them in women's sizes?

Comfy & Cozy

kat@orangebeautiful.com — Tue, 20 Jul 2010 11:17:00 GMT

It's been pretty darn hot in Chicago for the last week or so. I welcome the weather, but it means running the A/C most of the time, and I tend to get a little chilly while I'm chillin' at the end of the day.

My handy couch blanket is a favorite, but it's brown, and fleece, and too warm for the summer. How about these cool throws to add both color and style to the function of a summer throw?

1. Contrast Border Throw @ West Elm $49.00

2. Pom Pom Organic Throw @ PB Kids $79.00

3. Multi Colored Strip Throw @ Echo Design $60.00

All come with several color choices.

an adorable fix for Apple's latest boo-boo.

emily@orangebeautiful.com — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 11:35:00 GMT

After a slew of boring rubber band and bumper fixes have surfaced following Apple's iPhone 4 antenna disaster, it's refreshing to see these clever (and cute!) vinyl bandages from Antenn-aid.

They come in a multi-colored 6pk for only $4.99, but, if I had an iPhone, I'd have to go for the bandage-colored one!

images from Antenn-aid / via NOTCOT

Back on course

kat@orangebeautiful.com — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 10:49:19 GMT

It's been a busy few months of working on custom invitation and home staging projects, figuring out the color of my parachute (all job seekers out there know that term) and my favorite of all, blogging for the SCOOP! So, back on track, and super excited to forge ahead.

Long before the iPhone, Google Maps and portable navigation devices were the norm, people relied on a compass for direction. Always there to guide you home, I find a lovely nostalgia thinking about who in history used one. Whether simple or ornate, it always kept you on course.

A few favorites to keep me headed in the right direction.

1. World Traveler Necklace by GoMeagan $25.50

2. Compass & Postage Magnets by Live Oak Creations $4.00 for set of four

3. Compass Ring by Adobe Sol $33.00

4. Compass Tags by Petite Paperie $2.00 for set of 10

5. Mariner's Tote by Paisley Magic $19.99

"SUPER DUPER" is right -->

emily@orangebeautiful.com — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 10:00:00 GMT

Blanche - Vintage Button Ring, $6.00.

It's shops like these that make me fall in love with Etsy all over again... Norwich* designer, illustrator and jewelry-maker, Louise Evans creates all sorts of vintage-inspired-yet-modern items and sells them on her aptly-named Etsy shop, SUPER DUPER THINGS.

*Norwich is in the UK, about 100 miles NE of London

Trapeze Striped Ruffle Necklace, $15.00.

Louise makes everything from jewelry + accessories to papergoods + homewares... "quite often these will be one-of-a-kind pieces using recycled or vintage bits and bobs" -

The whole shop is completely drool-worthy, but I'm gonna share a few of my picks with you here... There are about six different things I've specifically got my eye on, but there's a 99.9% chance that these will be mine. (I've already added them to my ever-growing Favorites List.)

hello... brooch, $7.50.

Leather Stag Silhouette in a vintage frame, $22.00.

Creme Caramel Button Brooch, $8.00.

Kudos to Louise on all the great product photography in her shop... if only more Etsy shops could look like hers! ;)

Carry On! :: Still crazy about...

emily@orangebeautiful.com — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 07:15:00 GMT

...orange + tan + slate blue. After L's post about her favorite fashion color combination, I immediately imagined what my palette would look like. For me, it's rich shades of orange (no day-glo, please) paired with a warm blue-grey, all balanced out with a neutral - usually something tan, taupe or champagne. Throw in a fun pattern and a bit of interesting texture, and I'm sold.

Comfy orange slip-ons; lucite nugget earrings; patterned cotton dress; wooden doily clock; reversible leather cuff; sporty blue-grey sandals; clever porcelain spoon coffee mug; Tim Biskup limited edition lamp; and a beautiful handmade leather belt.

Designer Profile :: Annette Joseph

kat@orangebeautiful.com — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 11:12:27 GMT

Forever stylish, with endless amounts of talent and fresh ideas. That's how I can best sum up Annette Joseph and her world of prop styling and production.

As I dissected the photos and resource guides of my monthly hoard of shelter magazines, I would see her name consistently as a credit in publications like Better Homes & Gardens and Domino. When her name recently popped up on GOOP (Gwyneth Paltrow's lifestyle blog) I knew I needed to check her out a bit further. Profiled here, GP details how Annette had ten days to renovate, and create a home in a loft space at Icon in the Gulch for her and her family while shooting a film in Nashville. A tough order to fill, but she clearly had a great time pulling it off.

She has crafted herself the kind of job that gets my adrenaline pumping with excitement, and makes me want to book a flight to Atlanta just to take her out to lunch and learn more about her (hmm, not a bad idea).

Collaborating with photographers such as Lauren Rubenstein and Becky Stayer, she puts the finishing touch on what makes for a perfect shot for a food magazine, and creates that warm, cozy feeling for a holiday layout.

Currently working on a lifestyle and cook book, I'll be sure to fill you in on when that will be available.

photo credits: ajphotostylist.net, GOOP.com

Still crazy about...

laura@orangebeautiful.com — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 08:38:29 GMT

...black + white + pink. I don't think this combination will ever go away in my book. Throw in some metallic or reflective finishes for sparkle and finally pepper with pyramid studs - I'm not over those yet, either.

Black wedges; Faceted stud earrings via Making it Lovely; Spaghetti bodice dress; Copper clock via Coco + Kelley; Gold + white stud bangle; Ballet flats; Black mug; White table lamp; Studded skinny belt.

matryoshka | a fancy way to say "nesting dolls"

emily@orangebeautiful.com — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 13:30:00 GMT

"Matryoshka" (pronounced mah-tri-YOSH-kah) are better-known in the States as Russian Nesting Dolls... in their most traditional form, matryoshkas depict peasant women, wearing a kerchief, and softly-smiling.

As someone who appreciates when a designer can expand upon an existing idea and have the end result be completely adorable, I can't help but love these modern variations on a century-old tradition ::

> matryoshka as measuring cups, at Urban Outfitters.

> matryoshka as a letterpress notecard (Egg Press), at the Curiosity Shoppe.

> matryoshka as a set of nesting glasses, from fred flare.

> matryoshka as digital prints, from Etsy seller, benben.

> matryoshka as modern art, at CB2.

Up for Best Stationery Store! | TimeOut Chicago

emily@orangebeautiful.com — Mon, 05 Jul 2010 14:15:00 GMT

I'm thrilled to announce that the OrangeBeautiful Studio+Shop has been nominated by TimeOut Chicago for Best Stationery Shop!

Won't you please vote for us?

The most amazing part is that we're nominated with four of our favorite shops in the entire city :: Paper Doll at 2048 W Division // Hazel at 1902 W Montrose // FourSided at 5061 N Clark // & a SCOOP all-time favorite, GREER Chicago!

Talk about being in good company!

---

We sure have come a long way in the last six months ::

And check out some of the amazing things we're carrying in the shop!

1. Feltidermy Jackalopes, by girlsavage

2. Notecards & Gift Tags, by Squirrel in the Attic

3. Gemma Correll Notepads, from Little Otsu

4. Nice Letterpress Notecards, from OrangeBeautiful

5. Hand-Cut + Screen-printed Notes, by essimar

6. Mini Goals Chalkboards, by Mary Kate McDevitt

Be sure to come visit the shop when you can
and remember to VOTE for OrangeBeautiful as Best Stationery Shop!

www.tinyurl.com/VoteForOrangeBeautiful

Voting ends at 9AM on Thursday, July 22nd!

Sorellina

laura@orangebeautiful.com — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 09:46:04 GMT

My little sister, Kristen, just started a blog of her own called Sorellina (which means, literally, "little sister"). She intends to explore design with an emphasis on fashion and home, as well as stylish places in and around Atlanta, where she lives. Remember, this is the girl who brought us the amazing flower jacket tutorial (pictured below) - and she has most recently posted an easy-yet-beautiful, lace earrings project (pictured above). She emanates style and creativity, so I suggest you bookmark Sorellina - we're sure to see a lot of gorgeousness on her blog!

Images from Sorellina.

Summer stripes

laura@orangebeautiful.com — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 22:29:07 GMT

Two versions of the navy stripe espadrille: Madewell, $48, and Target, $17 online (may be less in store).

Guess which pair I bought?

Images from Madewell and Target.

summer lovin' | new @ J.Crew

emily@orangebeautiful.com — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 13:15:00 GMT

I'm still quite the resistant-buyer when it comes to J.Crew, but I sure do love the direction their style has taken over the past few years... As each new catalog comes out, I'm always inspired by their impeccable use of color, casual-yet-somehow-still-dressy separates, and their fondness for pattern.

Here's a short list of some of my favorites from their newest arrivals ::

1. Lightweight Cotton Cottage Skirt (in bronzed clay), $34.50.

2. Shimmer Crinkle Shell (in heather carbon), $45.00.

3. Spritzer-stripe satchel (in pale lilac), $278.00.

4. A.R. Trapp troubadour sunglasses (in taupe), $395.00.

5. Katelyn ruffle cardigan (in spiced chartreuse), $78.00.

6. Shattered glass earrings (in copper), $85.00.

images c/o J.Crew

I like heavy metal

kat@orangebeautiful.com — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 16:56:25 GMT

It's cool on a hot day. Grab a seat, sip some lemonade and peruse some of the season's groovy use of metal. Any of these could easily be used year round as well, but I like the idea of something besides an Adirondack chair as a symbol of chic summer seating.

Aluminum Etch Letters $10.00 @ Urban Outfitters

From top right:

Steel Wire Chair $398.00 @ Terrain

Cooper's Iron Colored Stool $159.00 @ Wisteria (more colors too)

Sunburst Garden Chairs $129.00 for pair @ Wisteria

Zelda Steel Chair $148.00 @ Urban Outfitters

Carry On! :: The paper landscape knows no bounds

kat@orangebeautiful.com — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 16:17:00 GMT

A while back, Emily posted about paper sculptor extraordinaire, Matthew Sporzynski. Most of you may recognize his monthly contributions to Real Simple, and his work ever wows and amazes me.

His latest efforts are the basis of the new Sherwin Williams campaign on color from McKinney. The following four print ads are featured in several magazines (House Beautiful, Food Network Magazine, Architectural Digest) to name a few.

With 1,500 color paint chips at his disposal, you can clearly see this man is a genius with paper, form and color.

Check out this video featuring a tv commercial expanding on the wonders of SW color. It's like a modern day Willy Wonka of paper treats. "LOVE it! It's such inspiring work.

More details can be found at the press release via PR Web.

image credits:PR Web, and Sherwin Williams FaceBook

New this week

laura@orangebeautiful.com — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 15:52:24 GMT

Coming this week to the NEAPOLITAN shop...new books, new cards and ephemera boxes...to hold those tiny, most special things.

Visual Vernacular Spectacular | Beth Shirrell

emily@orangebeautiful.com — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 08:49:29 GMT

I'm completely in love with the type and illustration work of Philadelphia-based designer, Beth Shirrell... after catching a glimpse of her Kalakari Display Font (top image) over on NOTCOT, I browsed through her portfolio.

It's filled with charming illustrations, meticulous typography and wonderful package applications. Here are just a few of my favorites ::

Check out more of Beth's lovely work on her site.

custom-designed bags | Jessie & Travis's wedding

emily@orangebeautiful.com — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Working on the GOCCO has become increasingly more bittersweet as supplies dwindle, but I sure do love it...

Our latest screen-printing project finished up just this morning :: a batch of bags for the wedding guests of Jessie & Travis, who are getting hitched in just over a month...

I can't wait for them to come by to pick up the bags, and see them in person!

By Popular Demand :: Dog-Friendly Stickers!

emily@orangebeautiful.com — Tue, 22 Jun 2010 09:30:00 GMT

After we gave you a sneak peek at the new storefront, we got quite an unexpected response to our window vinyl... in particular, the Dog Friendly sticker!

So, since we believe that good design should be shared ;) we're now offering the very same vinyl stickers on both our Supermarket and Etsy shops!

They're just $12/each - and they'll ship in a stay-flat mailer, with instructions on how to put up the vinyl (it's super-easy). Keep in mind that these are printed backwards, so they're intended for inside a window, glass door, or car window...

Also, in conjunction with offering the stickers, OrangeBeautiful has been donating $25/month to the ASPCA since the shop opened, and we'll continue to do so, well, indefinitely ;)

Here's to being Dog-Friendly!

UPDATE 07.24.10 :: After selling out of the first batch, we now have more in stock... RIGHT HERE!

A bit of color on a gloomy day | Favela Painting

emily@orangebeautiful.com — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 11:30:00 GMT

Check out these amazing shots of the latest project from Dutch artists, Jeroen Koolhaas and Dre Urhahn. This set of colorfully striped buildings is yet another in a series of community-driven mural projects in Brazilian "favelas" ("slums") began by Koolhaas & Urhahn back in 2006.

Check out more of these beautiful shots here, and for more information on Favela Painting, and to donate to the project, click here.

via NOTCOT and We Heart.

HomeGirl sale THIS weekend

laura@orangebeautiful.com — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 19:31:22 GMT

In years past I've put this post to the attention of Northeast Ohioans, but the HomeGirl Barn Sale now attracts shoppers state-wide (and beyond the borders)...

This summer's HomeGirl sale starts Friday at Maplewood Farm in Hudson (2357 Hudson Aurora Road). Sale dates are June 18-19, 10am-4pm. Phone 330-650-2135 with questions.

Cash or check only and carpool with friends, if you can - unless you want to fill your car with tons of furniture!

Owner Gina Bishop was kind enough to give me a sneak peek at the wares. Some of my favorite pieces included large-scale, found signage and letters (like S-W-E-E-T, above!) and smaller, unique pieces like the set of vintage dumbells below (reminds me of a pair that Robert Novogratz picked up from an NYC thrift shop on 9 by Design!

Check out the HomeGirl blog for additional information. And happy shopping!

Rock, paper, scissors

kat@orangebeautiful.com — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 13:26:12 GMT

Whichever of the three you pick, you'll still always win!

A Bamboo Pebbles $20.00 @ Branch Home

B Calliope Gift Wrap $16.00 for four sheets @ Smock Paper (Their work will knock your socks *OFF*)

C Antique Hardwood Scissors $17.99 @ Target

Tote-tastic ways to re-purpose and re-use

kat@orangebeautiful.com — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 11:52:29 GMT

It makes really happy to see an uptick in the trend of people using their own bags at the grocery store. I'm hoping it moves beyond a trend and becomes a habit. I made the switch about two years ago and it's been great on many levels:

1. I consume less plastic and paper goods

2. Aforementioned goods are not jammed into the back of the coat closet creating clutter.

3. Money saved and less stuff bought, because I only buy what will fit in the bags I bring along.

4. My bags are cuter than the grocery store brand ;)

Here a few amazing options that are re-purposed from existing goods (i.e. sails, rice bags, soda can tabs) and sent forth stylishly for their next mission. Well done designers!!

1 Flip-Top Tote $98.00 @ Viva Terra

2 Personalized Family Market Tote $20.00 @ The Craft Pantry

3 Giant Market Bag $40.00 @ Lisa990

4 Recycled Rice Bag Totes $8.99 @ Overstock (psst, they're $32.00 @ Nieman Marcus!)

5 Custom Sail Bag Tote $120.00 @ Beehive Design

6 Mega Silver Candy Wrapper Tote $178.00 @ Ecoist

7 Olive Seed Candy Wrapper Tote $138.00 @ Ecoist

charmed, I'm sure...

emily@orangebeautiful.com — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 12:45:00 GMT

I've never really been a charm necklace or bracelet person, but there really seem to be an over-abundance of awesome charm designs out there right now. Here are just a few favorites that are making me want to start collecting ::

left: Polli Necklace "Dixie" Pendant, $37.00, available at Tilde
and right: State Necklace (Utah), $120.00, available at ELSEWARES.

Panda Neckalce and I Scream Necklace, $20.00/each, by crywolf.

OMG, $18.00, by JL67

left to right: Adrienne, $115.00, Lotus, $88.00 and Charmaine, $115.00
all by Alisha Louise Designs.

Shop updates

laura@orangebeautiful.com — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 15:30:00 GMT

I decided to give my shop a little makeover and added some new, different items. NEAPOLITAN paper + home is now a collection of small luxuries � stationery and objects that represent both vintage and modern sensibilities.

Clockwise from top left: Chevron noteset; Cyrano de Bergerac (modeled by my lovely sis); Cheers calligraphed noteset; The Portrait of a Lady.

In addition to hand-calligraphed notesets, I've added a series of vintage recovered books with calligraphed titles, as well as some printed cards (more to come) and custom silhouette portraits. The shop's new emphasis is on the home and how small, special pieces - like a beautifully boxed set of stationery, book or portrait - can transform a tablescape or wall.

Couple silhouette portrait set

Single silhouette portrait

The Portrait of a Lady by Henry James

Sonnets from the Portuguese and Other Love Poems by Elizabeth Barrett Browning

Images from NEAPOLITAN.

I wanna get minted.� | rate our designs!

emily@orangebeautiful.com — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 10:45:00 GMT

So, do you guys know about minted.�? It's this amazing site where designers from all over the world submit their ideas for everything from wedding invitations to stationery to holiday cards, those designs are voted on (by YOU) and the winning designs are sold on minted.com!

Rate this design here.

For the most recent challenge (Holiday Card Spectacular), designers were asked to reinvent those boring old photo cards in a chic and modern way. The winning designers will receive national brand exposure, cash awards, and 5% commission on all net sales...

So, where do you, my fine SCOOP readers come in?... well, we're currently in Round 1 of voting, so I need your high ratings to get OrangeBeautiful's designs to the final round.

You do have to create a user login/account, but you can opt out of any mailings if you like, and - best of all - when/if one of your favorites wins the contest, you'll be able to head back and purchase that design as your holiday card for this year!

Rate this design here.

Rate these designs here and here.

Rate this design here.

While you're there, be sure to check out some of my favorite designers ::

Potts Design // Emily Ranneby // Alex Elko Design // Milkmaid Press //
Unless Someone Like You //

And don't forget to browse through all of the submitted designs and rate your favorites with 5s - 'cause remember: GOOD DESIGN MAKES PEOPLE HAPPY!

Thanks to minted.� for providing these challenges to the design community... I can wait to see who wins!

"Clear" admiration

kat@orangebeautiful.com — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 10:06:58 GMT

Ever since Spring arrived, I've noticed retailers utilizing glass cloches in displays for flowers, cupcakes, soaps. I always think that I should really try that at home--and then I forget. I do have one glass domed cake stand (and many, many cake stands in general), but it never proceeds past the baked goods use.

These assortments are so dainty and delicate. They really are a wonderful way to highlight something special or delicious.

1. Pretty Plate Presentation @ Martha Stewart Living'

2. Bird Finial Cloche $28.00 @ Terrain

3. Bird & Flower Cloche $58.00 @ Terrain

4. Glass Cloches atop Pedestals $14.00-$19.95 @ Sur La Table

5. Flowered Metal Pastry Stand $75.00 @ True Lucy Materials

6. Wheat Cut Etched Cloche $32.00 @ Beyond the Windowsill

Finally, with this book, I think I could manage some successful gardening options. I'll keep you posted...

The New Terrarium $16.50 @ Amazon

Ooh, La, Lonny!

kat@orangebeautiful.com — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 11:31:19 GMT

It has arrived. The 5th volume of online Lonny (new life of the former Domino) is here. 239 pages of vivid color, interesting profiles and so much inspiration that I border on stimulation overload. I can't read it all in one sitting. No way. It's several days of perusing with my happy Eccolo Journal in hand, taking notes on things and people I want to look up later.

The online format strikes me as more content pure. There are certainly ads, but they are relevant, and the editors seem to have so much more overall control. My absolute favorite feature is the expanded product information. You can hover your mouse over an element of the page, and 90% of the time, it takes you to the source link.

A big hurrah for Chicago's own Jayson Home & Garden and the lovely feature (pages 32-39) on their store and design services. You can find inspiration at every turn inside there.

This orange and brown bedroom popped off the page for me (page 86 to be exact). Bold graphic designs and fresh color with natural accents that are very luxurious as well. Lee Kleinhelter is an Atlanta based designer, and owner of Pieces. The article will blow you away with photos and insight on her latest project.

I will start weeding random people's yards if I get a set of these adorable garden tools. How cute are they?! Alice Supply Co. is behind the updated version of these household staples. I love seeing a new take on timeless objects-even a broom and dustpan.

all images via Lonny

the SCOOP

Designer Profile :: Richard Shipps

Baby news

Carry On! :: Hooray for Tucker!

Hooray for Tucker!

New on Supermarket :: Poppy and Moe

the new J.Crew catalog just blew my mind...

IMOOI jewelry | Have VS. Want

Inspiration for the desk and keychain

A star is born

I'm not in school, but I still want new supplies!

the best part about being a shop owner...

if only this were real... | USPS redesign

I will *never* get tired of this...

inspiration :: window dressing...

smokin' hot & cool as ice...

our house is a very, very, very fine house...

Tidying up a bit

A bit of guidance is always helpful

Nature inspired nuptials

all these jobs are wearing me out...

Bring on the Fall Line...

Baby James' Nursery

Surprising myself :: circus style

Comfy & Cozy

an adorable fix for Apple's latest boo-boo.

Back on course

"SUPER DUPER" is right -->

Carry On! :: Still crazy about...

Designer Profile :: Annette Joseph

Still crazy about...

matryoshka | a fancy way to say "nesting dolls"

Up for Best Stationery Store! | TimeOut Chicago

Sorellina

Summer stripes

summer lovin' | new @ J.Crew

I like heavy metal

Carry On! :: The paper landscape knows no bounds

New this week

Visual Vernacular Spectacular | Beth Shirrell

custom-designed bags | Jessie & Travis's wedding

By Popular Demand :: Dog-Friendly Stickers!

A bit of color on a gloomy day | Favela Painting

HomeGirl sale THIS weekend

Rock, paper, scissors

Tote-tastic ways to re-purpose and re-use

charmed, I'm sure...

Shop updates

I wanna get minted.� | rate our designs!

"Clear" admiration

Ooh, La, Lonny!

I will never get tired of this...