That's a Wrap

Tis the season for stocking up on gifts. One of my favorite parts of that is wrapping all the gifts, so they look festive and beautiful under the tree. From over the top to sweet and simple, there are many options when it comes to wrapping.

This gorgeous guy is from one of my favorite Pasadena boutiques, Elisa B. Purple curly ribbon, greenery and twigs, and gold bells give this gift a glamourous look.

These simple but beautiful gifts were wrapped by Ashley over at Design Sponge. Using homemade colorful baker's twine and a branch from your Christmas tree transform a plain cardboard box to something really special.

This heartwarming option comes from Whipperberry. The most adorable pom poms and homey fabric add a touch of whimsy.

One things these all have in common is the use of natural materials. A beautiful wrap job can come from whatever you have in your garden - flowers are lovely, but so are leaves and even twigs. Used in the right way, they can perfect your gift presentation!

shelfscape

I am just a little bit obsessed with this example of beautiful "shelfscaping" from this House Tour on Apartment Therapy. The adorable couple who lives in this tiny (300 sq. ft. tiny) studio have managed to find that middle ground between styled and stuffy. Floating shelves are a great way to fill wall space and easily display treasured items.

Working Girl

Clover Canyon pants, Alexander Wang top, Louboutin heels, Zara tote

The old adage "dress for success" seems a little outdated these days. In a world where some of the most successful CEOs in the world are donning a uniform of jeans and t-shirts to work, does what you wear to work really matter? I work in the fashion industry, but my workplace is EXTREMELY casual. It becomes easy to forget that cut-off denim and sneakers would be totally inappropriate in most work environments. And of course, what you wear won't make you successful. But I do think that looking professional makes you feel professional, and that self-confidence can make you walk a little taller, be a little more vocal, and indirectly perhaps, lead to success. 

The goods news is that work attire isn't the stuffy 3-piece suits of our parents and grandparents. Today, you can (and should!) still be stylish even when looking like your most professional self. Printed pants that are everywhere now are the perfect statement piece to accompany with your closet basics - a crisp white button down, basic but beautiful black pumps, and a structured tote large enough for your laptop and notebook.

reading nook

It is hard to think about fall while we're still battling almost triple digit temps, but boy am I ready.  The warm taupes and greys of fall are so cozy. I just want to cuddle up with a classic plaid blanket and a warm cup of coffee (ok, maybe I prefer hot chocolate). And don't get me started on slipper socks. Possibly one of my favorite accessories. So... fall, where are you? We're ready.

spotlight: bird mafia

I admire a sleek and modern home as much as much as the next girl, but sometimes you just need something cozy. The line Bird Mafia is the coziest. Emily Brown is the amazing talent behind the cut paper art forms, applied to everything from pillows to scarves to framed art. Her designs are the perfect little touch to get your house fall-ready. I love the hot air balloon for a children's room too.

more designs here

Falling Hard

{acne sweater, AG leather leggings, valentino rockstar tote, rag & bone booties, pamela love ring, nixon watch}

Summer's almost over! I can't believe how quickly the time has gone - didn't summer just start? And even though it will probably continue to be brutally hot for the next couple months in Southern California, everyone is over the summer sundress look and ready for sweater season. I love the edginess we're going to see this fall, with just enough studs and crosses to keep it interesting without having to commit to the goth look. Adding a bright sweater keeps things playful. And those ankle boots - don't get me started. I am dying for those boots.

the kitchen blues

I didn't watch HGTV's series Design Star this season, but I caught an episode of the winner's show, Danielle Colding's Shop This Room and I was pleasantly surprised by her work. She incorporated beachy tones without making it over the top theme-y. It has inspired me to bring in some blue-gray tones to my kitchen too. I also love the pops of yellow that offers punchy color against the more neutral tones.

The fun thing about watching the episode was seeing the amazing little boutiques where she found the elements that transformed the room. I love the shelving with the blue Moroccan tile, and all the beautiful dishes and knick-knacks she found to fill the space.

These pictures and more here