Featured Post: Fashion Meets Design

http://www.elledecor.com

Yesterday, I had the honor of being featured on Belle Maison with this post. Here is the post in case you missed it... This space featured in Elle Decor and designed by the lovely Kelly Wearstler has a brilliant mix of stones, metals, and colors. What makes this kitchen so fantastic is that it doesn't look like the typical kitchen. Wearstler used unconventional materials to give the kitchen a glamorous, stylish look. I love how Wearstler used both lighter and darker tones throughout the space. What do you think of the space? When I saw this space I thought to myself...What are some great pieces that carry a similar vibe...

(1) Isabel Marant Courtney Jersey Dress, (2) Fallon Jewelry Classique Biker Choker, (3) Marc by Marc Jacobs Too Hot To Handle Small Top Handle Bag, (4) Yves Saint Laurent Arty Ring, (5) Herve Leger Bandage Top, (6) Alexander Wang Diego Bucket Bag with Rose Gold Hardware, (7) Derek Lam Patterned Seasnake Skirt, (8) Super Sunglasses Lucia Sunglasses, (9) Steven Fearles Cap Toe Pumps, (10) Linea Pelle Sliced Cuff with Sliders

The Isabel Marant dress really captures the whole space. It has a great texture and really strong color, perfect for fall. The Fallon necklace is the perfect amount of glamour and shine to any look. In addition, the necklace has those lighter and darker tones as does the space. The Derek Lam skirt has that great retro, funky flare that is seen in Kelly Wearstler spaces. Which piece is your favorite? Thanks Julie for having me!

Today's Must Have: Sep 27, 2012

Simone Rocha Yellow Mohair Collar

How gorgeous is this Simone Rocha Collar? The detachable collar is quite the fashion statement for fall 2012. Many designers are giving their looks the perfect punch with a collar. The collar above can be worn with a T-shirt or collarless dress. I love the bright yellow and the warm Mohair material. What do you thing of the collar statement? 

Iceland's Volcanic Rivers

http://500px.com

When you first look at these images what medium do you think is being used? Are these painted abstract pieces or watercolor? Artist Andre Ermolaev actually used his camera to capture these aerial photographs of Iceland's volcanic rivers! Ermolaev did a brilliant job capturing the emotions of these landscapes. (ABOVE) At first this really does look like an abstract painting and not like a photograph. Here Ermolaev wanted to capture the different patterns that the river makes. (BELOW 1) The deep blue body of water makes a strong statement against the more muted landscape. I found this image to resonate more as a photograph. What do you think? (BELOW 2) I'm intrigued by all the colors in this photograph. You can really see the power of the river and its forceful movement. (BELOW 3) I found this photograph to have a lightness to it. It resembles a watercolor painting. I love how the river drains into the sea in a slow, relaxed manner. What do you think of Andre Ermolaev's work? 

http://500px.com
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http://500px.com 
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http://500px.com
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Georgian Colonial On Round Hill

http://www.sothebysrealty.com

Located in Greenwich, Connecticut this stunning farmhouse features eleven acres of prime real estate. The estate has seen many renovations since it was built and all owners have preserved its historic Georgian Colonial architecture. (ABOVE) The washed brick and double hung windows give the home an iconic American look. It's a beautiful home with so much character. (BELOW 1) Two pillars welcome visitors at the entrance to the driveway. The home's exterior landscaping is very natural and not overly manicured thus giving much charm. (BELOW 2) The back patio has a great view of much of the property. What a great place to kick back and relax. (BELOW 3) This backyard patio features a covered area. Definitely the perfect place to entertain without getting rained on. The brick wall in the background makes a strong architectural statement. What do you think of the home and it's outdoor spaces? 

http://www.sothebysrealty.com
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http://www.sothebysrealty.com
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Missing From Your Closet

(1) Emilio Pucci Mesh Paneled Crepe Dress, (2) Lizzie Fortunato Jewels The Bentley Necklace, (3) Anya Hindmarch Maxi Zip Rollin Bag, (4) Yves Saint Laurent Arty Ruthenium Plated Glass Ring, (5) Hakaan Glam Rib Sleeved Wool Top, (6) Pour La Victoire Arken Shoulder Bag, (7) Marc Jacobs Wool Twill Skirt, (8) Linda Farrow for The Row Leather Sunglasses, (9) Burberry Chelsea Wedge Ankle Boots, (10) Dannijo Tate Bracelet

Room Spotlight: Stripped Walls

http://www.elledecor.com

How beautiful is this Dining Room featured in Elle Decor? It screams sophisticated glamour with a bit of funky chic! The area rug that grounds the table looks like scattered rocks. It brings an "earthy" vibe into the space. I love the dark hard wood floors. The stripped walls are the eye candy of the space. The subtle touch of gold and light blue stripes are such a beautiful backdrop for all the furnishings. What do you think of the space? You can add as little or as much to your space as you want. Don't follow rules, just do.

Today's Must Have: Sep 20, 2012

Helmut Lang Long Driftwood Print Dress

How gorgeous is this Helmut Lang print dress? The strong graphic print looks like brush stokes on a canvas. What I love about the dress is the large front slit and relaxed fit, it makes the dress feel modern. In addition, the dress's many twist and turns around the waist are very flattering. I definitely see this dress worn to a more formal event. For example, the opening of an art gallery or a date with your partner. What do you think of the dress? 

Castle Design: Château de Pierrefonds

http://en.wikipedia.org

Situated to the north of Paris in the commune of Pierrefonds is the Château de Pierrefonds. It's a gorgeous medieval castle full of architectural details built in the 12th century. During the 19th century the castle underwent a major restoration. (ABOVE) With a thin blanket of snow the castle looks more gorgeous than ever. It has a grand feel, but still feels like a home. The windows are a definite favorite of mine. (BELOW 1) You can really see the front of the castle here. Both the castle and the Vanderbilt's "Biltmore" estate share similar architectural elements. (BELOW 2) A view of the castle from farther back. The castle has many turrets, all of which adds to its medieval look. What do you think of the castle? 

http://www.all-free-photos.com
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http://morgainependragon.deviantart.com
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Too Hot To Handle: Clutches

(1) Alexander Mcqueen Black Rabbit Fur Skull Knuckle Box Clutch, (2) Alexander Mcqueen Black Lace Unicorn Skull Clutch, (3) Alexander Mcqueen Marmot Fur Skull Box Clutch, (4) 3.1 Phillip Lim 2-in-1 Transparent 31 Minute Clutch, (5) Proenza Schouler Ps1 Black Python Clutch, (6) Alexander Mcqueen Oversize Black Leather De Manta Clutch

Person Of Influence: Ieoh Ming Pei

http://globeattractions.com
Louvre, Paris

Architect Ieoh Ming Pei was born in China in 1917. At 17 he left his native China to pursue an education in architecture in the USA. After graduating from MIT and Harvard, Pei started working and soon after established his own firm. Pei is a household name in the field of architecture. His works have inspired many and continue to. Much of Pei's work consists of different shapes. (ABOVE) Pei's greatest and best known work is the Pyramid entrance to the Louvre Museum. When Pei first presented the design it was looked at with much uncertainty. Today, it's considered as much a work of art as the artwork within. (BELOW 1) Pei's inspiration for the Museum of Islamic Art in Qatar came from a mosque in Egypt. Pei wanted to give the museum both a modern and traditional look. I love the clean lines and shapes of the museum. It's so simple yet says so much! (BELOW 2) The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a magnificent modern structure that is dedicated to the living heritage of Rock and Roll in Cleveland. It looks like some sort of instrument! When designing the structure Pei wanted to "echo the energy of Rock and Roll". (BELOW 3) The Nation Center for Atmospheric Research in Colorado is situated amongst boulders and mountains and the architecture reflects that. The coloring for the structures concrete walls was locally found. What do you think of architect Ieoh Ming Pei's work? 

http://www.djc.com
Museum of Islamic Art, Qatar
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http://www.musicandvideoreview.com
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Cleveland
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http://orlandofamilystyle.com
National Center for Atmospheric Research, Colorado
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Today's Must Have: Sep 13, 2012

Yves Saint Laurent Pale Pink Arty Cuff

How gorgeous is this Arty Cuff? The pale pink glass stone surrounded by the silver cuff is such a bold statement. I love the texture on the front side of the cuff. You can wear the cuff with a simple sleeveless light blue dress or a pair of jeans and black tee. It's a piece that can be worn with different types of pieces. What do you think of the cuff? What would you wear it with? 

Modern Beachfront Overlooking Bronte

© Justin Alexander

Located in Bronte, Australia this modern home has stunning views of the water. It was designed by Luigi Rosselli architects. (ABOVE) The home's focal point is its large balcony that resembles that of ship's. It's a strong architectural statement that cuts the home in two. The home's main floor features wall to wall windows. The overhanging second floor provides shade and protection for the balcony below. (BELOW 1) A view of the balcony and the water. I really love the wood shutters for the second floor balcony. They are both modern and rich in texture and color. (BELOW 2) A view of the home from the front. The slate pavers that lead to the front door are so fresh and clean. I love the mixture of wood and stone. It creates for a strong, and rich looking structure. What do you think of this home? 

© Justin Alexander
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© Justin Alexander
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