ikat ilove

Image (living space): Design My Way

I love ikat! Ikat has a fun potential that rivals a night out with Kate Hudson! It's an instant way to make a space brighter and more inviting. Unlike many bright patterns, ikat is classic which means of course, it'll never go out of style. "Ikat is a near universal weaving style common to many world cultures and is one of the oldest forms of textile decoration. It is a resist-dye process similar to tie-dye, where the fabric dye is applied prior to the threads being woven to create the final pattern" (Wiki).  Wether you've got the real deal or simply an inspired print, ikat is a sure-fire way to get the character you crave!

J xx

Clockwise: (1) Diane von Furstenberg, Kasi Canvas Kindle Clutch (2) Anthropologie, Ikat Bowls (3) Anthropologie, Topography Primer Placemat (4) Home, James! East Hampton, Java Mug (5) Warehouse, Tropical Ikat Print Bandeau Dress

Perched Gingerbread House

 

I realize this post is out of season, but evidently my praise can't wait. How cute and PERFECT is this tiny gingerbread house perched on the edge of a mug?!  Megan from Not Martha posted her mini gingerbread creations in December 2009, and I'm thankful I found this post late than never.  Just picture you and your guests enjoying a warm cup of coffee or tea and capping it off with this sweet little treat. Follow Megan's how-to instructions and surprise your guests next holiday season with these treats and you'll be the talk of the town. Santa who?

J xx

Caboodles Comeback

In honor of Caboodles making a comeback (it's true!!!), I call upon my fellow ladies of the '80s and propose that you get your girlfriends together and have a 'blast from the past' slumber party! Play Dream Phone, rent Sixteen Candles, swap makeup from your Caboodles cases and this time - drink cocktails!  Before you end the night, share your favorite passages from the original Sweet Valley High book series. Which Wakefield twin did you idolize?  Jessica...definitely Jessica. Click here to see the 1991 Milton Bradley commercial for Dream Phone.

J xx

Aluminum Rustic

Images: The Hive at 1511, The City Sage

I love rustic wood tables paired with aluminum bistro chairs. This is the perfect style expression for someone who hesitates to go country. Add aluminum bistro chairs and you get the polish and smooth finish that a full dose of country can't give you. On the flip side, a rustic wood table brings warmth and character to a space that a modern table might not. Mix it up and you get the best of both worlds! Capiche?

J xx

Retro Dive Girl

This is pretty spectacular. How cute are these Retro Dive Girls from Cottage & Bungalow?! They remind me of The Jantzen Swim Girl Icon which I've always loved! These hand-painted and distressed divers come with hanging hardware and as shown here, look so charming in a cottage bathroom - or any bathroom that dares to be this much fun! I'm sold!

J xx