Either one could be playfully perfect for day or night! And if I could actually get away with those pants I would die happy.
*designs by heidi merrick
TWO IN LOVE
I'm pretty sure these are the only two looks I need to get me through the month...
Either one could be playfully perfect for day or night! And if I could actually get away with those pants I would die happy.
*designs by heidi merrick
Either one could be playfully perfect for day or night! And if I could actually get away with those pants I would die happy.
*designs by heidi merrick
GLOBAL STYLE: THE CANOPY BED
When I was a girl I created mine by hanging sheets from my top bunk. Some of us were lucky enough to have one. But one thing is for sure, we all wanted one: canopy beds!
Cristina from Fuji Files here to share the origins of this girlhood dream staple.
Canopy beds originated in 15th century European castles, where nobility slept in one great hall with all of their servants. The simple canopies and curtains served as a barrier to block out cold drafts, insects and noise, as well as providing privacy.
With the construction of separate sleeping chambers within castles canopy beds became less of a necessity and more of a status symbol. Beds became extravagant pieces covered in gold, precious stones, silk sheets, embroidered tapestries and rich velvet.
In time the ornate fittings were stripped away to the modern lines that are still very much a staple in interior design today.
Perhaps it's the little girl in me that still yearns for one of these beauties. As an imaginative child or a design-savvy adult, have you ever had one?
*images via: 1 & 4 from domino, newyorksocialdiary, thedecorista
Cristina from Fuji Files here to share the origins of this girlhood dream staple.
Canopy beds originated in 15th century European castles, where nobility slept in one great hall with all of their servants. The simple canopies and curtains served as a barrier to block out cold drafts, insects and noise, as well as providing privacy.
With the construction of separate sleeping chambers within castles canopy beds became less of a necessity and more of a status symbol. Beds became extravagant pieces covered in gold, precious stones, silk sheets, embroidered tapestries and rich velvet.
In time the ornate fittings were stripped away to the modern lines that are still very much a staple in interior design today.
Perhaps it's the little girl in me that still yearns for one of these beauties. As an imaginative child or a design-savvy adult, have you ever had one?
*images via: 1 & 4 from domino, newyorksocialdiary, thedecorista
HAVE A (SWEET LITTLE) SEAT
I finally had some time to do some bloghopping over the holiday and came across these two office spaces...
Both featuring this fabulous little chair!! While I'm sure it costs an arm and a leg (and doesn't look all to comfy either) I'm scheming of DIY versions in my head using a more semi-affordable version that would likely live at my vanity. I think I have my first New Year's project start the list!
*images via french by design (a new favorite!) and the city sage
Both featuring this fabulous little chair!! While I'm sure it costs an arm and a leg (and doesn't look all to comfy either) I'm scheming of DIY versions in my head using a more semi-affordable version that would likely live at my vanity. I think I have my first New Year's project start the list!
*images via french by design (a new favorite!) and the city sage
Tasty Tuesday {Carb-On-It!}
So, with the holidays officially upon us, I'm declaring the whole month of December carbohydrate month. Carbs will be the official food group and for this month and this month only they magically will have no calories nor adverse affects on your health nor the fit of your favorite dress {I can't really control that second declaration, but hey, it's cold out so a little extra padding can't be that bad!}
While I consider myself a reasonably-abled baker who can turn out a pretty cookie or two, I've yet to try my hand at homemade bread. This year, that's all gonna change.
bread images by john blais,, kitchen via french by design
Last year, the husband thoughtfully gifted me (a signed!) copy of Leslie Mackie's Macrina Bakery Cafe Cookbook - the amazing printed sneak-peak into the inner sanctum of my absolute favorite bakery in Seattle.
This year I'm going to step up to the plate and try to produce their classic, and my favorite, bread. Feel free to join me - or simply wish me luck! I'll be sure to share the results, as long as they're not embarrassingly terrible!
While I consider myself a reasonably-abled baker who can turn out a pretty cookie or two, I've yet to try my hand at homemade bread. This year, that's all gonna change.
bread images by john blais,, kitchen via french by design
Last year, the husband thoughtfully gifted me (a signed!) copy of Leslie Mackie's Macrina Bakery Cafe Cookbook - the amazing printed sneak-peak into the inner sanctum of my absolute favorite bakery in Seattle.
This year I'm going to step up to the plate and try to produce their classic, and my favorite, bread. Feel free to join me - or simply wish me luck! I'll be sure to share the results, as long as they're not embarrassingly terrible!
Wedding Shoes and Wallet
A pair of shoes and purses because of the unique wedding ornament made with paint using hands alias handmade. Motifs shown a blue eye with hair ornaments around. More precisely a beautiful peacock's tail. Beautiful like a woman with full makeup on the day her marriage, that's the message you want conveyed by these shoes and purses.
Cyber Monday Special
Now that we're all back at our desks and in front of our computer screens I suspect you, like me, are trolling for the best Cyber Monday deals.
Well, look no further than new Apartment 34 sponsor Gorjana. The California-based accessories company packs a powerful punch with their gorgeous designs ~ really anything a girl needs to kick their wardrobe up a notch! Here are just a few pieces I'm coveting.
And today only Gorjana is offering an extra special deal - 25% off all jewelry and handbags. So run, don't walk your fingers over to your keyboard and hit up Gorjana.
Just remember the golden rule. One for them, two for you! Happy shopping, and saving my dears.
*Mrs. E
If you would like to reach thousands of savvy online shoppers then consider sponsoring Apartment 34. We have a few holiday sponsorship spots left. Email apt34blog(at)gmail(dot)com for more information today!
Well, look no further than new Apartment 34 sponsor Gorjana. The California-based accessories company packs a powerful punch with their gorgeous designs ~ really anything a girl needs to kick their wardrobe up a notch! Here are just a few pieces I'm coveting.
And today only Gorjana is offering an extra special deal - 25% off all jewelry and handbags. So run, don't walk your fingers over to your keyboard and hit up Gorjana.
Just remember the golden rule. One for them, two for you! Happy shopping, and saving my dears.
*Mrs. E
If you would like to reach thousands of savvy online shoppers then consider sponsoring Apartment 34. We have a few holiday sponsorship spots left. Email apt34blog(at)gmail(dot)com for more information today!
Monday Work Wear {All About Knits}
With unseasonably cool temperatures I've had to breakout all of my sweaters - but just because you're cozy doesn't mean your look can't be still be sharp and poised.
images via studded hearts, 2,4, {this is glamorous}, unknown, everything fabulous
Paired with a structured belt, a crisp white shirt and the ubiquitous killer heel, you're ready for the boardroom, and the couch (as soon as you get home!)
Happy Monday luvies!
*Mrs. E
images via studded hearts, 2,4, {this is glamorous}, unknown, everything fabulous
Paired with a structured belt, a crisp white shirt and the ubiquitous killer heel, you're ready for the boardroom, and the couch (as soon as you get home!)
Happy Monday luvies!
*Mrs. E
A MODERN DAY CHRISTMAS
I know, I know. It's not even December yet! But Thanksgiving is over and I've been waiting oh so patiently to share this space with you...
Back in October, I put together this photo shoot for HGTV.com with the concept of creating a modern day Christmas setting in a friend's bachelor pad. I took his very neutral furnishings and warmed them up for winter with a fur throw and metallic pillows that stayed true to his style while adding some shimmer and texture!
It didn't quite feel like holiday without a bit of colour, though, so I decided to add in one of my current favorites - a bright pop of citron green! Apartment living can always be a challenge when decorating for the holidays (I barely have room for shoes, let alone a Christmas tree!) and this room definitely didn't have a lot of options. Instead of creating awkward space issues with a large tree, we opted for this simple tinsel tree that still allows us to peek at the stunning view, tucking presents into the bookshelf.
Hot cocoa, anyone? The simple addition of a gold serving tray and a bowl of baubles is enough of a holiday touch without too cluttered.
Behind the sofa is my favorite part - the bar!! Ok, so maybe a feather wreath doesn't scream 'manly' but I know plenty of men who would appreciate it! Champagne, a stocking full of presents and the glow of candles set this scene perfectly.
I couldn't make it Christmas without some kind of greenery, and these mini trees for the entryway were the perfect compromise to make up for no real tree. We wrapped them in cozy fabric to dress them up a bit, lit some candles and created an area to display all the Christmas cards! (Such a popular guy, our bachelor.) The artwork happened to lend itself well to the idea of glowing city lights on cold winter nights!
The best part of the online article, though, is that it features a gorgeous tabletop by Manvi at Mochatini as well as a fabulously fun retro holiday styling by Mrs. Lilien! To check them out, hop on over to HGTV.com. How will you be decorating for the holidays??
*photography by brandon sawaya, and a huge thanks to bethany, maggie and jennie for all their help with the shoot!
Back in October, I put together this photo shoot for HGTV.com with the concept of creating a modern day Christmas setting in a friend's bachelor pad. I took his very neutral furnishings and warmed them up for winter with a fur throw and metallic pillows that stayed true to his style while adding some shimmer and texture!
It didn't quite feel like holiday without a bit of colour, though, so I decided to add in one of my current favorites - a bright pop of citron green! Apartment living can always be a challenge when decorating for the holidays (I barely have room for shoes, let alone a Christmas tree!) and this room definitely didn't have a lot of options. Instead of creating awkward space issues with a large tree, we opted for this simple tinsel tree that still allows us to peek at the stunning view, tucking presents into the bookshelf.
Hot cocoa, anyone? The simple addition of a gold serving tray and a bowl of baubles is enough of a holiday touch without too cluttered.
Behind the sofa is my favorite part - the bar!! Ok, so maybe a feather wreath doesn't scream 'manly' but I know plenty of men who would appreciate it! Champagne, a stocking full of presents and the glow of candles set this scene perfectly.
I couldn't make it Christmas without some kind of greenery, and these mini trees for the entryway were the perfect compromise to make up for no real tree. We wrapped them in cozy fabric to dress them up a bit, lit some candles and created an area to display all the Christmas cards! (Such a popular guy, our bachelor.) The artwork happened to lend itself well to the idea of glowing city lights on cold winter nights!
The best part of the online article, though, is that it features a gorgeous tabletop by Manvi at Mochatini as well as a fabulously fun retro holiday styling by Mrs. Lilien! To check them out, hop on over to HGTV.com. How will you be decorating for the holidays??
*photography by brandon sawaya, and a huge thanks to bethany, maggie and jennie for all their help with the shoot!
Long Weekend Lusting
There is so much goodness to be found when you're suddenly flush with free time and the joys of blog world to troll. I just couldn't resist sharing a few of my favoriate finds.
I'm loving a look that gives a nod to harvest season,
I'm dreaming of an Italian retreat,
I'm coveting noir for the holidays,
Perhpas with a little spot of color to brighten the mood.
But what I'm really loving is the fact that there are still two more days of the weekend to go! Now there's something to be thankful for.
I hope you're having a wonderful holiday luvies!
*Mrs. E
I'm loving a look that gives a nod to harvest season,
I'm dreaming of an Italian retreat,
I'm coveting noir for the holidays,
Perhpas with a little spot of color to brighten the mood.
But what I'm really loving is the fact that there are still two more days of the weekend to go! Now there's something to be thankful for.
I hope you're having a wonderful holiday luvies!
*Mrs. E
HAPPY (GOLDEN) WEEKEND
'Tis the season for gilded goodness! Of course, for me, that's all year round, but here's hoping you get a chance to add a little shine to your holidays...
There's nothing like a little gold to fancy things up! Me? I'll be putting up my bronzed tinsel tree (which you'll get a peek at next week!) to add to the festive decor. You??
Here's to the start of the holiday season my loves!! Hope you have a fun little weekend!
xoxo,
cassandra
*images via elle russia and nuevo estilo
There's nothing like a little gold to fancy things up! Me? I'll be putting up my bronzed tinsel tree (which you'll get a peek at next week!) to add to the festive decor. You??
Here's to the start of the holiday season my loves!! Hope you have a fun little weekend!
xoxo,
cassandra
*images via elle russia and nuevo estilo
THE 20-MINUTE TABLE...
How to put together a very last-minute tabletop...
Throw down your fabulously wrinkled linen. Forage for last year's feather decor. Gather your current favorite dishes.
Rummage through Christmas decorations for frosted pinecones and icicles. Combine grandmother's silverware, Ikea black glass votives, and ever-present Moroccan tea glasses.
Line glass vase with textured wrapping paper. Tuck into icy wreath that you've had since college. Bask in the glow. Devour turkey and pumpkin pie.
Happy Thanksgiving all!
Throw down your fabulously wrinkled linen. Forage for last year's feather decor. Gather your current favorite dishes.
Rummage through Christmas decorations for frosted pinecones and icicles. Combine grandmother's silverware, Ikea black glass votives, and ever-present Moroccan tea glasses.
Line glass vase with textured wrapping paper. Tuck into icy wreath that you've had since college. Bask in the glow. Devour turkey and pumpkin pie.
Happy Thanksgiving all!
TO YOU AND YOURS...
My friends, it's been quite an interesting and exceptional year in the land of coco+kelley (and beyond for that matter) and there's no better day than today to offer up some thanks to amazing friends - old and new - for their support through it all.
All of us have so much to be grateful for... me? On these chilly nights, I'm most thankful for the cozy roof over my head and the most basic of blessings.
Life isn't perfect (is it ever?) and I'm the first to admit that I'm far from having it all figured out, but the possibilities are endless and exciting. This year has brought many new opportunities and people into my world, and I can't imagine life without either of them... especially my girls.
I wish you, your family, and your friends a Thanksgiving that not only fills your belly, but your heart too.
lots of love,
cassandra
All of us have so much to be grateful for... me? On these chilly nights, I'm most thankful for the cozy roof over my head and the most basic of blessings.
Life isn't perfect (is it ever?) and I'm the first to admit that I'm far from having it all figured out, but the possibilities are endless and exciting. This year has brought many new opportunities and people into my world, and I can't imagine life without either of them... especially my girls.
I wish you, your family, and your friends a Thanksgiving that not only fills your belly, but your heart too.
lots of love,
cassandra
Happy {Give Thanks} Weekend
Well my loves, this is it. The holiday season has officially arrived. Did it catch you by surprise as much as it did me?!
Life seems to have been roaring by so fast and furious lately that I'm definitely looking forward to the break, and to bread with our nearest and dearest.
I'm also planning to use the extra time to put the finishing touches on some new projects of my own. You may have caught my newest endeavour - styling, which was just featured in the latest issue of Rue Magazine. Here's a peak of my suggestions for dressing for your family Thanksgiving dinner.
You can check out my tips for your office holiday party and New Year's Eve looks in Rue here, but I can't wait to start offering solutions to your styling dilemmas!
Finally, I have to reiterate how thankful I am for Apartment 34 and the world of blogging. I want to thank our latest blog sponsors, fab fashion line Lesley Evers, favorite Seattle-area boutique Promesse, gorgeous jewelry designer Wendy Mink and Canadian style setter Dace. I love featuring great design and looks I love and these are all at the top of my list.
I hope you have the opportunity to say thank you to someone special in your life this weekend. I got the chance to do that in a guest post at Create Girl today. We shouldn't need a holiday to force us to pay attention to the people that matter to us, but hey, we could all use the reminder now and again!
Happy feasting - till next Monday luvies!
*Mrs. E
Credits: Thanksgiving montage pics via eddie ross, studio patro, and dress design decor. Rue Magazine spread shot by Kim Bamberg, styling by me!
Life seems to have been roaring by so fast and furious lately that I'm definitely looking forward to the break, and to bread with our nearest and dearest.
I'm also planning to use the extra time to put the finishing touches on some new projects of my own. You may have caught my newest endeavour - styling, which was just featured in the latest issue of Rue Magazine. Here's a peak of my suggestions for dressing for your family Thanksgiving dinner.
(Spoiler alert!) I plan to bring those services to you, dear readers (and mass general public who have yet to hear of me), very very soon. So do let me know if you have a problem closet because I am your fashion fairy god mother.
You can check out my tips for your office holiday party and New Year's Eve looks in Rue here, but I can't wait to start offering solutions to your styling dilemmas!
Finally, I have to reiterate how thankful I am for Apartment 34 and the world of blogging. I want to thank our latest blog sponsors, fab fashion line Lesley Evers, favorite Seattle-area boutique Promesse, gorgeous jewelry designer Wendy Mink and Canadian style setter Dace. I love featuring great design and looks I love and these are all at the top of my list.
I hope you have the opportunity to say thank you to someone special in your life this weekend. I got the chance to do that in a guest post at Create Girl today. We shouldn't need a holiday to force us to pay attention to the people that matter to us, but hey, we could all use the reminder now and again!
Happy feasting - till next Monday luvies!
*Mrs. E
Credits: Thanksgiving montage pics via eddie ross, studio patro, and dress design decor. Rue Magazine spread shot by Kim Bamberg, styling by me!
A FOLKLORIC FANTASY TABLETOP
On my snowy lazy day yesterday I spent some time daydreaming up a little Thanksgiving tabletop worthy of a little imagination...
The feathery dishes are ones I own and I hope to use this year... the rest? A lovely collection of goodies that create a pretty little 'forest' of of white porcelain animals and feathery trees nestled along modern glass decanters to reflect the light of plenty of scattered tealights casting a glow throughout. Add a little shimmer with gold chargers and tie it all together with luxurious twigware. Oh, and a sprinkle of snow, of course!
*resources: ceramic deer and decanters via z gallerie. stemware and charger via crate & barrel. dishes and feather tree at anthropologie. stemware by michael aram.
The feathery dishes are ones I own and I hope to use this year... the rest? A lovely collection of goodies that create a pretty little 'forest' of of white porcelain animals and feathery trees nestled along modern glass decanters to reflect the light of plenty of scattered tealights casting a glow throughout. Add a little shimmer with gold chargers and tie it all together with luxurious twigware. Oh, and a sprinkle of snow, of course!
*resources: ceramic deer and decanters via z gallerie. stemware and charger via crate & barrel. dishes and feather tree at anthropologie. stemware by michael aram.
Wedding Wednesday {Wit and Whimsy}
This amazingly creative save the date had me at hello!
Lex & Loren - Engagement/Save the date! from Loren Brinton Films on Vimeo.
via that kind of woman
If you need a break this Turkey-day weekend, watch it. Repeatedly. It's enough to make anyone feel thankful!
Lex & Loren - Engagement/Save the date! from Loren Brinton Films on Vimeo.
via that kind of woman
If you need a break this Turkey-day weekend, watch it. Repeatedly. It's enough to make anyone feel thankful!
C+K SPONSOR: BLUE HOUR DESIGNS
Some of my most loved pieces of jewelry are those that are simplistic enough to wear everyday, but beautiful enough to still feel special... just like the pieces created by Alysia Sánchez Melnikov at Blue Hour Designs.
Her rings are my absolute favorite for their delicate design - I even own a gorgeous turquoise one that never ceases to feel fabulous. And the 'ornament' earrings? A perfect way to celebrate the season without having to tie some jingle bells around your neck. For more pretty little things, pop over to the website and see what you can scoop up for yourself or add to your wishlist!
Her rings are my absolute favorite for their delicate design - I even own a gorgeous turquoise one that never ceases to feel fabulous. And the 'ornament' earrings? A perfect way to celebrate the season without having to tie some jingle bells around your neck. For more pretty little things, pop over to the website and see what you can scoop up for yourself or add to your wishlist!
Tasty Tuesday {Going Locol}
Rather than share pie, stuffing or other Turkey-day recipes this Tasty Tuesday - I wanted to spread the word about a local taste treat and its unquie ask this holiday season.
Dear friends of mine, Kyle, Kristi and their newest addition, Maddy Duce are on the cusp of realizing their dream - opening their very own neighborhood beer and wine pub in Seattle. They plan to call it Locöl.
Everyone has been incredibly excited, asking how they can help this (young!) family-run business get off the ground in these tough times. Well, now there's a way!!
Locol is launching a "Community Puzzle", literally a jigsaw puzzle in which you can purchase a piece. The puzzle will be 3 feet by 4 feet in dimension and will be an image once completed. Each piece purchased will have the name of the person who contributed placed on a plaque next to the puzzle on permanent display.
I think it's the coolest way to truly invest in small business and community!
The pieces start at $25, though you can donate any amount. You can purchase your piece through a PayPal account set up and linked through Locöl's site and Facebook page.
Once the puzzle is complete, the Locöl will take 10% of that money and give it back to the community.
So this Thanksgiving, if you love good food, great local hangouts and brave people who dare to launch their dreams - go Locöl!
Dear friends of mine, Kyle, Kristi and their newest addition, Maddy Duce are on the cusp of realizing their dream - opening their very own neighborhood beer and wine pub in Seattle. They plan to call it Locöl.
Everyone has been incredibly excited, asking how they can help this (young!) family-run business get off the ground in these tough times. Well, now there's a way!!
Locol is launching a "Community Puzzle", literally a jigsaw puzzle in which you can purchase a piece. The puzzle will be 3 feet by 4 feet in dimension and will be an image once completed. Each piece purchased will have the name of the person who contributed placed on a plaque next to the puzzle on permanent display.
I think it's the coolest way to truly invest in small business and community!
The pieces start at $25, though you can donate any amount. You can purchase your piece through a PayPal account set up and linked through Locöl's site and Facebook page.
Once the puzzle is complete, the Locöl will take 10% of that money and give it back to the community.
So this Thanksgiving, if you love good food, great local hangouts and brave people who dare to launch their dreams - go Locöl!
INTERIORS TO INSPIRE: THE THANKSGIVING EDITION
It's almost here! (Really, where does the time go?) Julie from Chapman Interiors here today taking a break from my usual Interiors to Inspire to bring you a few refreshing tabletops that call for a feast of feasts - after all, this time of year, home is all about entertaining!
Fancy a more modern aesthetic? This first setting is for you - a DwellStudio table using a graphic approach with a traditional color scheme...
Get a similar look by draping lattice-inspired gift wrap over the narrow width of the table, then top with your traditional white plates, a graphic napkin (I've found some fun paper ones at IKEA), a brown egg and some lovely gold-tone flatware and you are on your way to a modern celebration. Don't forget to grab some little pumpkins and give 'em a good coat of white paint for the centerpiece!
For those of you who love a nature-inspired tabletop...
Using organic textures and natural elements, this setting is still sophisticated without being stuffy. I'm really loving this simple clean palette paired with the softness of feathers. To pull it all together purchase vases and dinnerware in white that have a natural texture to them, then use branches in the centerpiece for the height, placing feathers along the outside edge of your container so you don't have to invest in so much plumage.
And finally, for the traditionalists who aren't afraid to indulge in a fabulous palette of color...
Cheers!
Julie
*images via: graphic modern, rustic feathers, eddie ross' sparkly traditional
Fancy a more modern aesthetic? This first setting is for you - a DwellStudio table using a graphic approach with a traditional color scheme...
For those of you who love a nature-inspired tabletop...
And finally, for the traditionalists who aren't afraid to indulge in a fabulous palette of color...
This gorgeous sparkling table from Eddie Ross is the perfect inspiration! He's paired deep cobalt with warmth of the seasonally appropriate ochres and rusts. So lovely and inviting. The key here is that strong pop of blue from the glasses combined with vintage brass elements to create a timeless table. (Tip, if you have a not-so-dripping-with-crystals chandelier over your table, try swagging strands of crystals just for the evening to sparkle things up a bit!)
Get your gobbler ready! Because the time has nearly arrived...
Cheers!
Julie
*images via: graphic modern, rustic feathers, eddie ross' sparkly traditional
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