LOW-KEY TOTE

A few months ago I did this post on simple leather purses. BAGGU just came out with this beautiful drawstring design and I love how clean and practical it is. The black is already sold out but the natural would age nicely. What do you prefer, structured logo bags or unmarked minimalist totes?

THE GREAT SHOWDOWN: DOTS VS STRIPES

Don't get me wrong, I love my stripes but it seems like there is a little competition in town...dots. I love love love dots (shhh don't tell stripes I am cheating on them) I think both patters are classic and sophisticated and fun.

Which side do you pick?

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BLOG STARS

Some people ask me what my favorite blogs are and I would love to share them with you. I obviously follow more than 5 but these are my top favorite ones.

Did I miss a fabulous blog? Let me know!

not in any particular order...

SITE: http://www.dreamsandjeans.com/ 

WHY I LOVE IT: This lady has the best style. She posts lovely modern homes and clothing. The site is very simply designed so the content can shine.

FAVORITE RECENT POST: Questions for her readers. It was so nice to see who else reads the blog there are some great stories in here.

SITE: http://www.ohjoy.blogs.com/

WHY I LOVE IT: This new mom always eats the most delicious food. I dont know how she stays so slim and stylish. She is a graphic designer so there is a great graphic-quality to her posts.

FAVORITE RECENT POST: This outfit was envy-worthy. I think the bright summer colors are fabulous. 

SITE: http://mynewroots.blogspot.com/

WHY I LOVE IT: Super healthy recipes that make even deserts good for you. I love the background on each of the ingredients and how they benefit your body.

FAVORITE RECENT POST: Caramelized onions AND fennel? What a delicious combination for a pizza.

SITE: http://www.stylebyemilyhenderson.com/

WHY I LOVE IT: She cracks me up big-time. I think her posts are funny and helpful. I feel like we are just friends chatting away over lunch when I read her blog. I also think her style is perfect--a wonderful combination of vintage and modern. I want everything in her house (and to be friends with her)

FAVORITE RECENT POST: This Ryan Gosling/Gray post was amazing. I devoured that thing like a giant slice of chocolate cake. Now that is a good way to get design inspiration. 

SITE: http://www.designcrushblog.com/

WHY I LOVE IT: This is a highly-curated design site. The things that are selected range from totally-out-of-price-range to easily collectable. I like almost everything she features. 

FAVORITE RECENT POST: Also, every once-in-awhile she features a quote, they are usually obscure but very inspiring. Last week she posted this one, which I thought was very good. 

IN THE NAVY

I did a feature awhile back about navy blue glossy walls. I dont know why but navy has suddenly captured my eye again. I especially love navy paired with coral and pink. The dark navy is offset perfectly with the girly florals.

Here are some lovely examples...

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Here is how I would shop it...

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NAPA WEEKEND

I'm like a kid the day before summer break. I am going to Napa tomorrow and enjoying some sunshine and relaxation all weekend. Have a lovely weekend everyone!

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FRESH PICKS - WEST ELM FALL

I was so excited to see the West Elm fall catalog in my mailbox. They are really doing some interesting things for the fall. They have embraced a global, African-inspired look. It combines nicely with the modern pieces that they have in their current collection. Here are my favorite new items for fall.

 

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PARTY JEWELRY

I have a serious crush on these tassel bracelets from Leif. They are like a little party on your wrist...now to choose which color.

STAG ART

Recently I have found myself attracted to modern interpretations of the classic stag silhouette. Just think of it as the artwork that both you and your boyfriend agree on (except the glittery one).

And just for fun...

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WRAPPED CHOCOLATE

These have to be the most beautifully-wrapped chocolate bars I have ever seen. Mast Brothers out of Brooklyn wrap their finely-crafted chocolate bars in the prettiest paper.

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TUSCAN RETREAT

How much do you want to buy the next plane ticket to Italy to stay here? I can't get over how stunning this place is.

All pictures courtesy of Welcome Beyond.

PAINTERLY PRETTIES

Recently I have been attracted to these light, painterly pieces. They fit the low-key mood of hot summer days.

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BEACH TREASURES

I stumbled upon the beautiful element studio on etsy.  Her pieces have this natural quality to them that is just stunning. I love the way the smooth glaze contrasts with the textured, pure white outside. These are treasures that you will keep for years to come.