Cheap Design Tricks: What is Blik and More!

Cheap Wallpaper Trick: I have really been struggling with my bathroom. Given all the non-fun things you have to do in a bathroom and the fact that you don't spend much time in there anyways, I like my bathrooms fun and a little adventurous. You know those restaurants where the bathroom is so randomly unexpected and amazing that you come back to the table and tell all your friends about it? Well that's the effect I am looking for. I wanted to do a really fun wallpaper but it looks complicated so another cheaper option might be What is Blik decals. I love the fact that they're easy to apply but they don't look like some kid stuck stickers on the wall. I like these Iron Vine ones on the left and they have everything from a Mario Brothers scene to airplanes and flowers, to Keith Herring art and polka dots:)
A living room for under $1500: Remember how I asked my friend Claire (who was recently recognized as an influential design blogger by Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles Magazine) to make a great living room for me with my gray, purple, and gold inspiration?! Well this is what she designed! I can get this whole look for under $1500! So excited she made that happen:) My favorite piece is that gold lamp, and the reading nook is so thoughtful!! She told me the most cost effective way to change the look of my home is through wall art, curtains, pillows, rugs and lighting. No need to buy all new stuff, just build off the basics!

Trend I am feeling: NEON nails!!

Summer has officially started and the colors in the stores are bright and beautiful...and NEON. Whether or not it's easy for you to wear and coordinate bright colors, one easy way to incorporate neon into your daily routine is through your nails. If you don't want your co-workers to see, try your toes first. I was at Walgreens today and found a neon Sinful Colors Nail Enamel collection for $1.99 each! The paint goes on pretty thinly so I would recommend avoiding the neon yellow, but for $1.99 I am pretty happy. For a higher quality check out the O.P.I. brights line or some of the brighter MAC shades like Scorcher, Steamy and Shirelle:)

Enlisting Help from My Superstar friends

Day 2 in Chicago: Now that I found my place, I have a lot of time on my hands. I did two awesome things while here...First, I had a lovely lunch with my great aunt and distant cousins. I also asked my professional designer friend Claire who is quoted in this month's Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles Magazine to help me design a living room based on this inspiration board she designed. Isn't she talented?!?! It's perfect for my mood right now. Let me know what you think!! Also, to all my bschool friends who are wondering how to design your new apartment, hire her to help you out before she becomes the next Nate Berkus!!

Do it Yourself Designing!

Good news!! I just found my Chicago apartment. The building is AMAZING. There's a fire pit next to the pool and hot tub, which is to the right of the poolside cabanas. Yep, that's right, not just lounge chairs...CABANAS. Inside, there's home theater that fits 22, as well as regular pilates and yoga classes that take place whenever there's not a game going on in the indoor basketball court. Wow, we are not in NYC anymore!

I knew this moment was approaching, and needed some inspiration for the new place. I am really excited about painting the walls (which I've never done before) and giving the place some personality, but needed inspiration. So, my friends and I went to Made by Me in Cambridge for a little pottery painting. My friends made everything from a precious business card holder for the new business she's starting, to a ruffly blue bowl with yellow stars (a la le petit prince) to boxes adorned with paisley and fleur de lys designs. I made a mirror frame (see above-I glued the mirror in after it was glazed). Apparently I am into gray's, lavenders, and purples, so I think this color palate will begin to inspire my living room! Not only is painting really relaxing (even if you have limited artistic ability, like myself) but you get to make each piece completely your own. It's a loud, noisy world out there, and sometimes you need to take a moment to find your inner color voice-so go forth and find a pottery painting place near you!

The next few days will be all about my color choices for my new place. Stay posted, I'll need your help deciding!!

Edition by Banana Republic

I went to wine country with my girls last week. There's a ton to blog about but the first blog-worthy subject is Edition by Banana Republic. It was our last day in Santa Rosa, and we had a full day before heading to the airport. So how do 10 women decide to spend their day...Shopping! First we went to the outlet malls in Petaluma Village which was particularly fruitful given our low expectations, then headed to downtown SF. One of my friends pointed me to Edition, Banana Republic's only accessories store. 40% of the items are only available at the store.
When asked why he launched the store, the president of Banana Republic noted, "There’s a lot of high-end jewelry that’s not really accessible. There was a big opportunity in the market to fill that white space and offer accessible and affordable accessory." I couldn't agree more Mr. President. I still thought the prices were a tad high (the best things hoovered in the $80-$100+ price range) but I loved the concept. The pieces were just edgy enough to be shop-worthy. If you are ever in SF, check it out!!

People who inspire me

Jeff Leatham- I saw him on Oprah's show on people who have their dream jobs. He's the artistic director of the four seasons in Paris, and has a show on TLC called flowers uncut. He creates the most beautiful floral displays I think I have ever seen, getting his inspiration from color blocks. Several of his designs have a slight lean to them as well. I am completely on board.

Janet Goldman-she's the CEO of a store called Fragments on Prince street in New York. I have yet to see a brick and mortar store that sells the latest and greatest designers that are on trend for the season. From everything I can see, this looks like jewelry utopia, and I definitely plan on checking it out during my next NY visit!!

You're Such a Stud!

Enough of the negativity...here's something I do love, studded stuff!!!
Cop some for the summer:)

These clutches are at Aldo for $40!


Or how about this leather stud cuff from nine west.


There are tons of studded shoes out there, many of which are cute, but check out these from rock and republic. I found this pair on endless but Gilt also sells R&R shoes from time to time. The point is not necessarily these shoes but if you want studded shoes with a twist, go for a studded back or heel!

As a final note, I've seen studs with suede, satin and jean. Beware: these versions can look cheap, especially the later two, so stick with leather just to be safe:)