GLOBAL STYLE: JAMES NARES

Hello friends! Cristina from FujiFiles here, and I'm quite sure we all feel the same way about this Lonny living room. I know I had it on my Christmas list - in its entirety.
But for now let's narrow that (lofty) dream down to the two pieces responsible for the room's splash of color: the paintings.

Those vivid brushstrokes are the work of James Nares, a London-born artist, filmmaker, and musician based in New York. His paintings are like strokes of calligraphy, magnified and flowing across large format canvases.

To achieve the look, Nares suspends himself over the canvas in a selfmade harness, and paints one continuous stroke using large brushes he developed himself. 

"I found that brushes are like characters in a way: Each one does a different dance."  

Nares can go through hundreds of attempts before he's satisfied with a particular stroke (his assistant squeegees the paint off the failed attempts). With all of the work and ingenuity that goes into every piece, the final product has definitely earned its place on my art wishlist.

I love the bold movement and color they bring to every interior!

*images via Lonny, House & Garden, Google images

GLOBAL STYLE: ITALIAN BEACHSCAPES

Happy New Year, friends! Cristina from FujiFiles here, and it appears I'm not alone in my post-holiday winter blues. How ever are we meant to brave the winter chill without the momentum of the holidays to get us through? By retreating into our beautiful, beachy abodes and sipping grapefruit mimosas of course! In the event that you (unfortunately) don't live beachside, however, I recommend large scale art pieces instead - fake it 'til you make it!  

These beachscape prints were taken by photographer Massimo Vitali, from Como, Italy. His recognizable Italian beach panoramas feature dreamy blue landscapes dotted with sunkissed beachgoers - one look and you'll forget the grey skies outside!  

Hang one of Massimo Vitali's large photographs on your wall and you'll feel as if you're gazing out the window of a resort hotel, practicing one of my favorite pastimes - people watching! 

images via canadian house & home, lonnymag

GLAM (AND UNDER $25!) GIFT GUIDE

Happy holidays lovelies! Cristina from Fuji Files here with a Glam Gift Guide to help you through the season. These goodies offer lots of glitz and glamor, you'd never guess they were all under $25!

You can never go wrong with a classic, like F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby or Tender is the Night. Now take a classic and add a deco-inspired metallic cover designed by Coralie Bickford-Smith and you've got a guaranteed hit. This series of six titles by F. Scott Fitzgerald offers beauty and substance, each for just $18.85.

The world's most stylish bunny Fifi Lapin is impossibly chic and endlessly inspiring... for a rabbit. A set of Fifi Lapin postcards is the perfect gift for your fashionista friend, available for $15.

Who wouldn't love some liquid luxury for Christmas? Chanel nail polish, or shall I say, Le Vernis Nail Colour, is absolutely attainable at $25 a bottle.

The Fortune Cookie Placecard Holders are one of those gifts I'd have trouble parting with. They're oh so chic and at $21 per set of 12, I may just need some for my next soiree!

This iPhone Slider Case is so sleek and shiny, who can resist? I'm picturing my newly Chanel manicured fingers wrapped around this luxurious gold phone, ahem, I mean my friend's. $23.99 at Target.

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

GLOBAL STYLE: OTOMI IN EVERY COLOR

Yellow's the new neutral, but red is a classic, and I'm always partial to royal blue. Can't decide which otomi fabric you like best? Cristina from Fuji Files here with an inspiring solution for that dire case of indecision. 

You can have it all! In small doses of course. Add a cushion in each hue to a neutral sofa for some extraordinary seating. I know my beige Ikea couch would benefit from some otomi love!

 

They also add a playful pop of joy to even the most sophisticated setting. As the (shopaholic) saying goes, if the shoe fits buy one in every color!

Cushions available at Jacaranda Home and Ruby Plaza. Custom shades by Black & Spiro.

*images via asheleandro and ivy&piper

GLOBAL STYLE: BROOK&LYN

Hello lovelies! Cristina from Fuji Files with a bit of Global Style for you to add to your Christmas wish lists. Mimi Jung, founder of Brook&Lyn, is a New York fashion blogger, boutique owner, and stylist. Now, luckily for us, she is adding jewelry designer to that awe-inspiring list of credentials!
Mimi's jewelry collection, Surrounded, was inspired on a recent trip to Hong Kong where she discovered beautiful agate slabs in a small stone shop.

The name 'Surrounded' is an homage to the stone and the process of creating each piece. As you can see the center of each stone is surrounded by concentric rings in varying shape and color. These rings are echoed in the hand-made crochet ring around each stone, and the entire piece is then surrounded by rope.

I love their versatility! I have a weakness for clothing and accessories that can be worn in various ways. 

Reason number two for adding these to the Christmas list: they can transform an entire look. One necklace can take a typical T-shirt or maxi dress to full fledged fashionista. Need styling ideas? I love browsing at Mimi's blog for inspiration (and for picturing the countless ways I could work this into my wardrobe!)

This collection is right on trend with a unique twist, and is just the thing to breathe new life to well-worn outfits. What more could you ask for in an accessory?

*images via brook&lyn

GLOBAL STYLE: LE DOME CHAIR

Love it or hate it there's no ignoring the dome chair's presence, both in a room and on the design scene. Cristina from Fuji Files here with some Global Style dating back to 18th century France. This chair is a reproduction of a French regency period chair and its dramatic dome and deep wings exude major drama and intrigue.

Chairs like this were stationed at the entrance of grand French chateaus for the porter to be seated in when admitting visitors. The canopy and deep wings were intended to block drafts. Now I don't know about you but that short history alone has my imagination running wild envisioning my own French chateau, complete with porters and such.

Even if this look is not your cup of tea (I admit they are not suited to most families' living rooms), I think we can all appreciate a piece of furniture that commands such a glamorous statement.

Design greats such as Kelly Wearstler and Ryan Korban have used them to great effect in rich hues, but the linen version below (for sale at Restoration Hardware) could be an understated option for the home that evokes its original classic lineage.

What do you think? Would you? Could you? Have you?

*images via kwid, ryankorban, restoration hardware

GLOBAL STYLE: HANDIRA RECAP

It is inevitable: Every time I complete and publish a coco+kelley post, I find 50 pictures that would have been perfect for the topic. Cristina here from Fuji Files with a little recap that was just too good to pass up. You may recall the Moroccan wedding blankets from a few weeks ago?
I was well aware that they make beautiful bedspreads, but when I found these alternative ways of displaying a handira, I simply had to share.

I'm in love with this room and its beautiful rug with matching pillow cases! And handira pillows are an affordable way to bring this look home. Of course carpet cleaning would be an issue, but let's not let reality spoil my daydream of basking in this nook with my matching yellow house slippers and lemony beverage.

Major 'Why didn't I think of that!' moment happening with this coffee table. The sequins add just the right touch of glam to this neutral living room.

And speaking of glam, did you notice:

The most luxurious picnic blanket ever! I'm imagining a fab bachelorette picnic complete with silver trays and macaroons. So if you're still searching for reasons to invest in one of these beauties, here are three more!

*images via Justin Bernhaut, habituallychic, buzzsugar

GLOBAL STYLE: HMONG HANDBAGS

Hi everyone! It's Cristina from Fuji Files here to introduce you to the Hmong tribes and their beautiful creations. The Hmong are an ancient tribe who originated from the mountain regions of China and Mongolia and migrated south to Laos, Thailand and Vietnam seeking social and political freedom. The word Hmong means “free” and this is a defining element of Hmong tribes.
Following the Vietnam War many Hmong people were forced into refugee camps in Thailand or immigrated to America, Australia, Canada and France. You may remember Clint Eastwood’s film Gran Torino was based on a Hmong American community in Michigan.
Hmong people are often referred to as “flower Hmong” for their vivid pa ndau embroidery, meaning “flower cloth.”

The fabrics were originally worn for celebrations such as births, weddings, and New Year, but can also be seen in everyday items like baby carriers strapped to womens’ backs. Dazzling Lanna is an Etsy shop that creates one-of-a-kind handbags from vintage, handsewn Hmong baby carriers.

Model Abbey Lee Kershaw has been spotted carrying her own Hmong bag on numerous street style blogs.

So much work goes into each piece, from growing and dying the hemp to hand-sewing the embroidery. Cheaper alternatives are available on eBay but keep in mind that the cheaper price points usually means cheaper, machine made textiles.

I’ve already fallen for them and made a purchase of my own, and I receive compliments every time I wear it! Their one-of-a-kind vintage appeal is something you just don’t find everyday or at the mall!

*images by David Sutherland, Jane Gjestland, Rose.M, Craig Arend, StockholmStreetStyle, DazzlingLena

GLOBAL STYLE: LOOM RUGS

G'day! Cristina from Fuji Files with a post that's close to home (for me). Loom Rugs is an extraordinary rug shop in Melbourne, Australia. As their motto says, "A beautiful rug is at the heart of a beautiful home," and Loom's rugs are not only beautiful, but unique, and recycled!

Loom Rugs are all hand made from natural and recycled fibres using traditional methods to create a non-traditional design. The patchwork look above is called 'Hepsi,' meaning 'all,' and is pieced together from vintage Turkish rugs and kilims that are beyond repair.


I'm also in love with their Old Yarn range, woven from the old yarn of unravelled vintage kilims.

Loom's method of creating modern designs from vintage materials results in a unique invention: the modern antique! An item that is collectible for both its contemporary and vintage value. (At least tha's how I would justify the purchase!)

I would find it so magical to own a rug that had been rewoven from incredibly old, unravelled, rugs from far away lands - flying carpet fantasies anyone?

xo Cristina

*images via Loom, all store images via thedesignfiles

GLOBAL STYLE: OTOMI FABRICS

Hi loves! It's Cristina from Fuji Files here to answer that nagging question: you've seen it everywhere, on tabletops and pillowcases, headboards and bedspreads, but if you're anything like me you've been wondering... what is that print?

The answer: Otomi fabrics! These rich and vivid prints are characteristic of the Mexican Otomi Indians, whose hand-embroidered fabrics are said to be based on ancient cliff paintings. With each Global Style post I write for coco+kelley, I'm realizing just how many designs dating back hundreds of years have managed to maintain a fresh and modern look in the home! 

Otomi fabrics are a fun way to bring a splash of color to your dining table, reading nook (above!), or bedspread. Especially effective for renters who don't have the luxury of painting, try adding some vibrant color to your walls by hanging the fabric as a tapestry or covering a headboard. 

(The beautiful headboard below is actually a d.i.y. if you can believe it! Click here for a step-by-step video and instructions to make your very own.)

You can find Otomi fabrics at Jacaranda Home, or on eBay at the Mexican Textiles Museum Store. When you purchase fabrics from the Mexican Textiles Musem Store (they have placemats, table runners, coverlets, and more too!), you are also contributing to the preservation of the endangered textile memory of Mexico and the women who embroider them, so they're definitely a worthwhile investment. 

And, judging by the  longevity of this design so far (ancient cliff paintings!) I can guarantee your investment won't be going out of style anytime soon!

*images via domino, familyliving, designsponge

GLOBAL STYLE: THE HANDIRA

Hello lovelies! Cristina from FujiFiles here with the next Global Style Bite all the way from Morocco. The traditional Moroccan wedding blanket, or handira, is a beautiful piece of textile woven from sheep's wool and hundreds of mirrored sequins.

In the Berber villages of Morocco, the female members of the bride's family spend months hand sewing each round metal sequin to hand-loomed sheep's wool. Berber brides would then wear the handira as a cape to keep warm on the journey to their new husband's home. 

Of course interior designers have found a new use for these bridal accessories in the home! Hendiras make the most beautiful bedspreads, with just enough sparkle to add luxury to any room, and in a neutral hue for a calming space.

Despite its traditional origins, this hand woven textile fits flawlessly into a modern design aesthetic, as Jonathan Adler demonstrated in his design for the Parker Palm Springs (below). 

Maryam has a beautiful selection for sale over at my marrakesh, and even if you're not in the market for a Moroccan wedding blanket, they make for great eye candy! I imagine draping one over my couch - the whites are refreshing for summer and the sequins are perfectly festive for  the holidays (and without the red & green)! 

*images via: stylecurator, apartmenttherapy, desiretoinspire

GLOBAL STYLE: TUNISIAN TURQUOISE

The brilliant turquoise blues adorning Mediterranean doors and rooftops have long been the quintessence of holiday postcards, but who knew all this beauty was inspired by function? Ancient civilizations actually believed turquoise could ward off bad luck and evil spirits, which is why the color is such a popular choice!

Dar Bibine, a hotel located on a Tunisian island in the Mediterranean, has embraced this historical color palette and updated it by combining archaic architecture with modern designers such as Panton, Gehry and Starck to create a completely fresh style. The clean white lines of traditional Tunisian buildings create the perfect backdrop for this updated design.

The evil-fighting properties of turquoise translate as well into clothing and jewelry, protecting people in the form of pendants, belts, and bracelets. You may be familiar with the blue “evil eye” prevalent in jewelry from Turkey and Greece which goes so far as to cause bad luck for whomever it is directed at!

Even if you're not totally convinced of its powers, there is no doubting this color's calming effect on the psyche, dissolving tension and promoting tranquility.

And as Pantone says of their Color of the Year 2010, "It's not just blue or green, it's both, which means it's calming and invigorating at the same time. And it makes you think of escaping to someplace tropical and beautiful" ... Say perhaps, Dar Bibine, Tunisia?

*images via: darbibine, netaporter

GLOBAL STYLE: THE KAKLUGN

In brainstorming my first Global Style, I was torn between inspiration from my local winter climate (in Sydney) and the Northern Hemisphere's hot summer. So I chose to post on an interior design element that to me, is simultaneously appropriate for both seasons: the Swedish fireplace - or "kakelugn!"

While their purpose is to heat the home during cold Scandinavian winters, their unique design certainly keeps these rooms stylish all year long...

The ceramic tiles, tall cylindrical shape, and traditional detailing are enough to warrant my love, and on top of all that they're completely functional. The kakelugn may take longer to heat up than your typical fireplace, but once it does it radiates heat that is much hotter, for much longer, and (bonus!) substantially reduces emissions.

Despite their age (some date back to the 18th century) the crisp white color of these fireplaces keeps them fresh and modern. 

Have any of you ever experienced the unique designs of the kakelugn for yourself? I wonder if I can commission one for my living room...

*images via: emmasblogg, wikipedia, skona hem