richie designs

arts & science

2012-01-25T18:06:00.000-08:00

I discovered this line Arts & Science today wandering through A'Maree's in Newport Beach {I'm having a love affair with a store, I'm not kidding} and if I can just say omgosh? fantastic, everything was stunning {and I might add, not in my GAP budget}.

the satin on that navy blue dress I'll dream about tonight. and those quirky little shoes. {love}

Garance and Scott

2012-01-25T10:36:00.000-08:00

they might be the cutest couple on the planet and both disgustingly talented as well. {not fair}

in case you've been under a rock. Garance Doré can be seen here and Scott Schuman can be found here

sites I adore

2012-01-25T10:14:00.001-08:00

you're all so cool you've probably been following her for years. I found her 8 or 9 months ago? one of my favorite tumblrs. I wish I was drawn to earthy, chill images...{sigh} I keep picking out sparkles, glitter and large poofy dresses.

humm? wonder if I have a repressed 6 yr old inside of me?

Downey?

2012-01-24T13:41:00.001-08:00

The series "shit people say" may have jumped the shark [or is approaching overload as we speak] but I can't help but laugh my ass off at this. I'm pretty sure I've said at least half of these.

Martha Stewart for Avery Labels at Staples

2012-01-24T11:19:00.000-08:00

Wish I didn't have to subject you to my iphone photos of her fab products, but the Staples images are so low res I can't swipe them to show you the big glossies that common sense would have put up for people like moi to promote.

Two full rows of gumball, yummy colors. Say what you will about MS, the lady [and her team] have great color and product sense.

Most on my radar? The wonderful colored journals [I use one every day] the faux leather binders, and die cut labels which are the cutest things ever.

sweetheart

2012-01-23T09:33:00.001-08:00

when I was single I use to make gifts for all my girlfriends. Giant Ring Pops inside boxes painted Tiffany Blue and other wacky little things. It made me feel better when I didn't have a date to celebrate with.

whether or not you have a sweetheart, I'm sure you have a swell group of girlfriends to eat piles of garlic with and complain about the men out there. They deserve treats too don't you think?

and if you do have a sweetheart, you're one lucky girl or guy! there will be yummy treats, FAB GREETINGS {duh} and great people watching. Reports are this is a smaller, more curated {invitees only} show if you were at all overwhelmed in prior exhibits.

Hope you all join me at the newest of the Unique LA shows FEB 11 and 12 here in LA 11am - 5pm both days $10 at the door [but you get a super goodie bag to make up for that]

Parchment Post

2012-01-21T05:14:00.000-08:00

So if I were you I would get in on this AMAZEBALLS project if I were you. Parchment Post is an online subscription [6 months or 1 year] of curated cards sent in the mail.

I say this... not exactly confirming or denying that I may or may not be a part of the next mailing. Just Sayin'

sign up here

Tony Duquette for Coach

2012-01-20T10:01:00.000-08:00

had a fun evening last night at Coach seeing the new reproductions of Tony Duquette's archival jewelry collection. I can tell you that I'm kinda mad for the giant gumball cocktail rings but trying to sort out the jeweled bib and spike necklace as something to wear to the grocery.

The event was hosted by The Man Repeller. Of course she's so chic that she had a few of my favorite pieces on and it was working seamlessly.

I tried on the clear crystal gumball ring and immediately thought this would be perfect for ms Karey Mackin. The girl can wear jewels like no one's biz-ness.

I attended the party with Ms. Heather Clawson of Habitually Chic she also tried on a bauble and looked fab in the green [blanking on the stone name] chunky ring. A glass of bubbly, hanging out trying on jewelry isn't a horrible way to spend an evening. [PS it was so nice finally meeting Heather after years of blogging with one another]

If you get Harper's Bazaar, this month's edition with Demi Moore on the cover has a great story about the project with Duquette's design partner Hutton Wilkinson talking about the formation of the collection for Coach. I don't have a full grasp of TD as a designer - interior and beyond, so I won't pretend to talk about his work. The article was a great beginning insight for me to the vast scope of his work. The original jeweled bib pictured here was in the story, worn by Wallis Simpson [W.E. Madonna's movie coming out] he was beloved by many.

now if they would just do this spike necklace in silver I would be a happy girl.

wallpaper

2012-01-18T17:30:00.001-08:00

I'm normally not a wallpaper fan [in general] this reclaimed wood has me intrigued.
by Piet Hein Eek

shark poster new in the store

2012-01-18T12:20:00.000-08:00

new in the store: remind your teenager [or yourself] that jumping off of roofs with a skateboard might not be the wisest of decisions.
$17.00 available here

and

2012-01-17T11:29:00.000-08:00

The most amazing character in the alphabet - the ampersand.

strange I realize to talk about something so, well...insignificant. It has the perfect shape to me though. tons of negative space, a curl, a swoosh, a little jazzy bit here and there.

also it means the addition of...whatever you want. I like to think of it in terms of people or shopping or going some place. Of course it can mean something bad but lets skip that part shall we?

my ampersand collection of lovely designers work and other various fun bits can be seen here

Monday

2012-01-16T09:37:00.000-08:00

I'm so glad information runs in 3's don't you? I mean, instead of like 10's or something. I had the strangest weekend of information, all of it various degrees of bad to worse. I got in the tub last night I buried myself in hot water and prayed about all of the people involved [3 separates stories].

I feel the most helpless when there's not a damn thing you can do to change bad news. I come from a place where if you work hard enough you should be able to fix anything. This of course causes me great stress that I shouldn't be taking on.

on the bright side, it's monday so we all have the opportunity to start fresh and make a new choice. This is what I tell myself every time I want to reach for something horrible to put in my mouth MAKE A NEW CHOICE. Sometimes it works, sometimes I shove that pastry in anyway [it was worth it]. Hope your week is full of new, positive choices.

images are from the amazing Hedi Slimane Diary. Did you know he has an exhibit this month in LA? I just found out about it. MOCA I believe, ends Jan 31 if I remember correctly. I know I should know who this woman is...rocker of some sort, but alas, I am old and out of it. who is she? do tell.

colorspiration

2012-01-13T18:10:00.000-08:00

happy friday darlings. hope you have a pink weekend

photos via pinterest

green with ...

2012-01-12T17:16:00.001-08:00

just madly in love with green today. That is all.

>pinterest images

blast from the past

2012-01-12T10:54:00.000-08:00

I heard this song this morning and heard it so very differently than when it was first released in my early 20's.

It might just be my group of girlfriends...but it seems like we all found our voices later than we all expected. Once we did it felt like a shadow was lifted from our true selves. We have talked about this at length - just in this past year in fact - as one just found hers. Maybe that's the true passing into adulthood, before that point we're just stumbling faking it till we make it.

Sometimes I worry for young people that they want to be grown ups so fast, I know I did. The illusion that the media gives young people is that when you have all the right stuff that your innerself will feel better, when most of the time it's the opposite. Do you ever think about yourself in your early 20's or even teens? [and I'm assuming you're over at least 34 here] and think about what you would say to yourself? I guess I think more about that than I should.

I would have told myself:
• if you can't trust a man with your ATM card you shouldn't marry him.
• you will change so much from 24-32 that you won't recognize yourself. So, don't get married before the age of 30ish.
• Work really hard and keep growing in your career [the only one that I actually did].
• Somehow it all works out.
• The wait is totally worth it even though everyone around you seemingly has it together faster [they don't they're faking it too]
• Being a grown up is hard work, be young and free for as long as you can get away with it.
• Kiss a lot of cute boys.

kiss me you fool!

2012-01-11T11:44:00.000-08:00

just doing a little prep for Valentine's Day over in Le Shoppe

all available HERE

new in the studio: ohh emm gee

2012-01-10T12:43:00.001-08:00

sometimes you've just got to say it

available here of course

New in the studio: film business card

2012-01-10T12:17:00.000-08:00

so pleased to print this business card for Isabel. Do you remember this video? The bride speaking French? it's still my favorite of all time, I think I've watched it a dozen times.

branding done by Monica Majors, printing by Moi
want a fancy biz card all of your own? email me at richele[at]richiedesigns[dot]com

a yellow love affair

2012-01-09T16:20:00.000-08:00

My love affair with yellow has been pretty consistent the past few years. It all started with a fashion show of yellow and grey [and I can't even tell you who it was Celine? I don't know] recently yellow and navy from our wedding invites and that whole nautical look. darn, I still have to show you those don't I? sorry about that. Some eye candy till then?

promise I'll get on track again, though it feels like I've said that a lot lately.

love that you don't have to see the whole thing to know what it is.

been missing my shorter hair lately - how cute is she?

I could live under this tree and sky all of my days

Taylor Swift, she gets it right

yellow velvet and denim - I would have never guessed it could be this good

photos? >pinterest of course

Random Fun

2012-01-05T18:43:00.000-08:00

I'm pretty much in love with Pinterest if you haven't figured it out yet. It's just a giant mood board for me. Every night I lay in bed with my ipad and pin things. It's my end of night treat.

pretty colors

FAB type

dreaming of chopping my hair off [again], but that will mean I would actually have to DO my hair instead of piling it on my head. Not sure I'm ready for that just yet.

where all good things come from > Pinterest

brights

2012-01-04T18:23:00.000-08:00

I've been in love with neon pink for a bit now. I like it a lot with paper bag and gold accents here.

via>pinterest originally martha stewart

The green charger

2012-01-03T16:51:00.001-08:00

did you know that when your iphone or other charger is plugged in it continues to use energy whether or not it's plugged into anything? And can deplete your overall battery life if you continue to charge once it's full? The company describes it as "it eliminates vampire power". I'm excited I can do one more little thing to help out ya know?

via the site:

The Mushroom GreenZero is the most ergonomic charger of the lineup. The Mushroom immediately starts charging when connected to a device with low battery levels by simply pressing the “mushroom” button with your hand or foot. When the device is fully charged or unplugged, the charger will automatically shut off to save energy and your battery. The charger’s green technology allows for zero standby energy consumption

Set to release at CES mid January, The GreenZero battery charger by Brackertron will retail between $22-$29.

read about Brackertron's device here
via> cool hunting

2012 goals

2012-01-02T14:54:00.000-08:00

do you find it difficult to write down goals? I do. Especially in the last couple of years of freelance. I feel like half the time I don't know what I want, so how can I really ask for it if I don't know what it is? here.lies.the.trouble. I am wobbling around like a teenager without a plan. "What's your plan B?", the universe asks. "I.don't.know", I say to the universe, staring at my toes like a lost kid.

I hate numbers, they hate me. It's a mutual dislike but we're more civil as of late. This is the part that makes a good business person, the ability to be creative and charge appropriately. That, and endless amounts of energy to stay up till 3am drawing out plans for whatever is happening next [like a woman I do freelance work for - she's a great business person by the way] I like to sleep at 3am myself. I get cranky without sleep.

I can tell you for every day I feel like "gosh I'm really doing this" there are 3 days that I want to hide under my desk because I can't even pay myself. Today is one of those days, so I'm not feeling so spiffy at the moment. The days when I'm kicking ass I really do. Sometimes I can't believe all the cool stuff I get to do, it's amazing. If money didn't matter I would do this till I died. But that's not my reality.

here's what I'm thinking about: I might be someone who needs to work for someone else. That makes me sad to say that, that I might not have the stuff to be an entrepreneur. everyone else seems to be making it, but it's not working for me. The twitter and blog world are full of great entrepreneurs. Maybe they are having days like mine and not talking about them. I wish they would.

It's bad of me to tell the truth here in this forum I realize. This is the land of happy, shiny, sparkles. Alas, it's what's happening today. With that...I still have some things to accomplish.

here's what I would like to do in 2012

• be creative every day
• make amazing paper
• get paid biweekly with a salary that will support me and help us save some money for a rainy day
• work close to home
• get published in a prominent magazine
• work with some amazing big budget clients
• work flexible hours
• get exercise in daily
• take a vacation with my husband. we have still not had a honeymoon.
• take a trip with my girlfriends.

good pictures - of course, pinterest

NYE

2011-12-31T14:21:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year's you animals!

wishing for 2012 to be magical for all of us.

photo via fffound

O Holy Night

2011-12-24T11:22:00.000-08:00

Rufus Wainwright's voice is so perfect for this song. Merry Christmas, Love Richie

2011-12-20T19:14:00.000-08:00

2012 I promise I'll do a full wedding post - heck you haven't even seen my invite

but until then. I got some more of my photos back the other day. This is why I married Chris - everyday feels like this with him.

I'm just barely dog paddling here with my schedule before the break darlings. You may or may not see me again till after xmas. If I forget to check in? Happy Holidays to you all.

Richie

Design Shuffle

2011-12-19T13:58:00.001-08:00

I was introduced to Design Shuffle - A social media site for designers and architects recently and you know I like me a good interior. I spent a few, well lets just say too much time, looking through the scores of interesting designers and architects pondering, one day, when we own a home.

Let's take a look, shall we?

Scott Sanders LLC, NY City project: Hampton Home Traditional and East Coast, but I love the layers of things happening in this room it's bright, sophisticated and elegant

Venegas & Co, Boston, MA a kitchen design studio. This is brilliant. I'm sure there is a need just to have one's kitchen done and not feel bad that you're not giving the rest of the house to the designer doing the job. I love this modern but warm kitchen. I'm especially digging the stacked tile backsplash that goes to the ceiling. I adore cabinets that go to the ceiling. I've always thought what the heck? with cabinets that just stop and leave a foot of gap [that could be storage] at the top. plus? it destroys the line of sight when you're in the room [but there I go again being picky]

how incredibly sweet is this back house turned rec room? gosh it's like a little gum ball heaven. [ikea curtains btw] John Loecke Inc., NY

lastly, gosh what a "great room". This is just calling for three kids and a couple of dogs. I hope they are rollerskating across those floors [when mom isn't looking] Blackfish Lane residence is a project by Workshop/APD out of NY. This group is amazing - don't miss the rest of their portfolio

if you're looking for inspiration or a designer/interior group to find a solution to your issue at hand you'll definitely find a little bit of everything here.

school house electric

2011-12-19T09:58:00.000-08:00

apparently I'm in a video posting sort of mood lately. Have you seen this one? Love School House Electric's products

Schoolhouse Electric & Supply Co. from Schoolhouse Electric & Supply Co on Vimeo.

PS kind of in love with this chair

That's Gangster Traffic

2011-12-16T16:51:00.000-08:00

so good I can barely stand it.

Ice Cube Celebrates The Eames

new in the studio: moon business card

2011-12-15T11:59:00.000-08:00

graduating BFA design student Satsuki Atsumi contacted me a couple weeks ago about producing her business card. I soon realized she was under the gun as she wanted it for her senior show in approx 10 days from when we met. A crash course in teaching her printing details, some discussions with a master printer I have studied with about the grey moon image portion and a bunch of hoping and crossing fingers it would work in her time frame. [I've had incredible [luck? and] success with projects turning out involving screens or a percentage of the original image which normally are tricky to achieve.

We opted to produce two sets of plates in case the lower of the resolutions of the grey plate didn't work. We opted with our first select anyway. We got them completed and handed off to Satuski the eve of her senior show [nothing like a little pressure]. We were both thrilled with the finished piece.

interested in a glammy biz card? I know you are. email me for details richele[at]richiedesigns[dot]com

please enlarge image to see the yumminess up close.

beautiful project

2011-12-15T10:05:00.000-08:00

Jon Crispin's Willard Project is really stunning.

This is part of an ongoing photo project by Jon to document the suitcases left by the people who lived in the Willard Asylum in upstate New York.

"In 1995, the New York State Museum was moving items out of the Willard Psychiatric Center in Willard, NY which was being closed by the State Office of Mental Health. It would eventually become a state-run drug rehabilitation center. Craig Williams and his staff became aware of an attic full of suitcases in the pathology lab building. The cases were put into storage when their owners were admitted to Willard sometime between 1910 and the 1960s. And since the facility was set up to help people with chronic mental illness, these folks never left. An exhibit of a small selection of the cases was produced by the Museum and was on display in Albany in 2003. It was very moving to read the stories of these people, and to see objects from their lives before they became residents of Willard."

There is some question to what Maude's tools were used for, but I'm fairly certain she was a book maker. The leather tools, glues and binding threads look very familiar to what I've played around with in book making projects. I also suspect she may have set some type in her day as the wood photo'd looks to be "furniture" the wood spacers used in typesetting [which I still use today]. She definitely was an artisan.

to see a small video about his project please click here. I wish I had known about his Kickstarter project while it was still going. It makes me happy that he raised more than double the money he had set out to with his goal.

thanks to Aubrey Road for the intro to his project

The $100 dress

2011-12-14T11:12:00.001-08:00

Is it possible to get a good looking [and fitting] dress for under $100? I found a few that might convince me it's doable.

Top Shop little black dress for office or jazz it up for night with some sparkles $96

red dress ASOS $72.72

SALE short sleeve ASOS soft skirt Midi dress $50.90

navy split hem dress [slightly over budget but too cute not to think about] $109.08

chain print dress $72.72

Do I look like a doily in this?

2011-12-13T10:03:00.000-08:00

I'm down with a good laugh these days. Silly You Tube videos with talking animals ... children rapping to whoever. Call it the demise of my brain cells I suppose. Most of all I love good wit.

you know you've said at least 3 of these things to friends in the past 6 months don't lie. The Twitter feed is even better. #shitgirlssay

Jet Setter

2011-12-12T09:43:00.000-08:00

For your chic jet setting girlfriend this year.

vintage tray goodness. John Derian European Hotel Decorative Trays. Feel like a jet setter without leaving the house. available Bergdorf Goodman $66-$80

new in the studio

2011-12-09T17:22:00.000-08:00

A holiday card pretty much for anyone. The 2012's might be arriving to your doorstep if you're on my list. That color combo is so darn cute I can barely stand it.

available here if you don't know it all ready.

Dear Santa

2011-12-08T09:35:00.000-08:00

If you've hit the lottery this year - these would be lovely...

Chanel black patent jumbo quilted kelly briefcase. Can't you just see my ipad in this? $1950 - gosh it's even slightly USED...because I'm willing to slum a little for Chanel

of course I don't want to be greedy but this sweet little scarf from Hermes is lovely too, you know...as a stocking stuffer or something tiny. I promise to find a lipstick this exact shade of reddish pink just to match it. $546

gosh, and I can't forget something for the house now can I? This Hermes Giant Avalon Blanket will keep our tooties warm all year round. $2575 best part about this one is I don't even think you have to be put on "the list" to order it. Super easy peasy gift if you ask me.

thanks
richie

holiday stationery sets

2011-12-07T13:44:00.001-08:00

There is still time to order custom stationery for the holidays. Last day for orders for Christmas delivery is Thursday Dec 15th.

use this free shipping code as my treat for you. FREESHIP11

Love of NYC

2011-12-07T10:39:00.000-08:00

I have a secret love affair - don't tell Chris. It's been 2 long years without visiting - maybe this spring.

A Year in New York from Andrew Clancy on Vimeo.

It's with NYC and sometimes SF as well - I'm greedy like that. A lovely video to capture the heart of.
via>design crush

2011-12-05T18:49:00.000-08:00

I'm distracting you with some pretty shiny images while I recover from the Unique Show.

dress: Jenny Yoo
brooch: vintage [it's so awesome]
shoes: flat and nothing to note
groom's suit: jcrew - can he be more handsome? [ps summer suit not currently available]
photographer: eighty eighty-four
flowers: Twig Floral

what you can't see and was probably the best thing I wore...I had asked my cousin to let me borrow my grandmother's watch [as my borrowed] and she also sent something down for me to keep [as my old] that sent me into hysterical crying I was so moved. My grandma and I were very close so it was so nice to have something that reminded me of her on that day.

2011-12-02T19:48:00.000-08:00

if you're in LA hope to see you at the Unique LA show this weekend 11-6 both days. I'm in spot T51

getting ready!

2011-11-28T14:19:00.001-08:00

Get ready Los Angeles the Unique LA show is coming this weekend. Me and my elf are busy stuffing cards and other goodies that will be for sale this weekend. Did you know that everything featured is Made In America?

have you been watching the Made In America continuing story line on ABC News? This morning ABC reported that if you spent a fraction of your holiday dollars this season on Made In American products we could create 200,000 new jobs. Surprising, to even me.

I hope you come out to have some fun shopping and support independent vendors.

where, when and all the details are HERE

Give Thanks

2011-11-23T12:00:00.001-08:00

I have a lot to be thankful for this year

heading out for the long weekend, which for me is tainted with work but before I do...finally got some of our photos back from the wedding today. Here is a sneak peek.

xo
richie

new in the studio - BACON POSTER!

2011-11-23T10:57:00.000-08:00

these babies are gonna go like hot cakes [and bacon] available here $25

Dear Santa

2011-11-22T12:08:00.000-08:00

These are officially on my holiday wish list

finally available [just today] Coffee Joulies. What are they I can here you say? from the site:

Tired of burning your tongue on coffee only to have it get cold a few minutes later? With the Coffee Joulies™ Gift Pack your coffee will be ready to drink in minutes and will stay that way for hours. Each polished stainless steel shell is filled with a special phase change material that melts at 140°F. Put them inside the custom-printed thermos and they absorb heat from your coffee when it is too hot and release it back into your coffee to keep it at the perfect temperature.

available for $100 for the set Wonder if one pack would cover two people's coffee?

I think this is it

2011-11-17T12:28:00.000-08:00

I've never wanted a tattoo.

I'm too fickle. I can't decide, I will want to art direct the whole entire thing and ask WHAT? every 3 minutes. I think that even Kat Von D would poke me in the eye.

Source: blackv.tumblr.com via Richele on Pinterest

but THIS, this ampersand....is something I would love forever I.just.know.it

2011-11-15T18:46:00.000-08:00

It's been a wee bit busy here.

Source: Uploaded by user via Richele on Pinterest

our [mine and Chris'] final party two weeks ago...BBQ here at the house for 75 of our closest friends [I actually mean that] + 10 kids, a pinata, margaritas, strawberry infused vodka and a taco guy. I worked my ass off from 730A to midnight.

It was fun but I don't want to throw another party for maybe ever. That's three if you're keeping track...our mini wedding to kick off October, we flew back east to celebrate with Chris' family and all the lovely folks back there, then the bbq at our home for all of our west coast peeps.

I might also add that I was in production for a client's photoshoot on top of all that. If you've ever done one of those [involving pets and children no-less] you'll know for sure when I say that I'm tired. that I'M NOT LYING. We did it, it was hugely successful and I can't believe the cuteness that we captured [this photo above is not one but reminded me of]

Source: 500px.com via Richele on Pinterest

Sorry to leave you darlings but the bathtub is calling me now.

-richie

oddly enough...

2011-11-14T16:49:00.001-08:00

My Double Dog card got featured in a dog magazine The Bark this month.

Dear Los Angeles...

2011-11-13T11:45:00.000-08:00

please mark your calendars for the Los Angeles Unique LA show coming up. What is Unique LA? The very best of handmade goods from the So cal region, food trucks and other fun items. I'll be there...it's my very first show [and I'm a bit nervous - a lot really] come by to say hello if you're there?

there are over 300 vendors [clothing, beauty, paper, and more] displaying the best in indie and handmade goods. Apparently there is quite the good people watching / movie star sightings, not to mention, the most amazing holiday shopping ever.

December 3rd and 4th
downtown LA at The California Market Center
110 East Ninth Street 90079

11am - 6pm both days

$10 to get in but you get all sorts of goodies in return.

new Shepard Fairey

2011-11-11T09:36:00.000-08:00

100 signed prints of the new Fairey poster "The Future is Unwritten" will go on sale today at artnet.com/auctions for $1250. Proceeds will benefit a nonprofit organization Coalition for the Homeless.

read more about the project here

2011-11-03T17:47:00.000-07:00

in the midst of crazy be back in a week or so.

photo via> pinterest

Tintype Photography

2011-11-02T11:39:00.000-07:00

In San Francisco a new portrait studio called Photobooth SF opened recently touted as the "world's only Tintype and Polaroid portrait studio". They had me at Tintype.

via photobooth.com Tintypes are made by the wet-plate collodion process, which was invented in 1851 and requires each plate to be individually prepared, exposed and developed within just a few minutes. Tintypes are unique direct-positives made on metal plates, meaning that a positive image is resolved directly on the original plate in the camera (much like a Polaroid). There is no negative intermediary or subsequent printing involved. All the materials we use are prepared by us, from their most basic chemical ingredients. It is truly a hand-crafted process.

I've been in love with that type of photography through Chuck Close's work [though I'm not certain his is tintype] it has that rich tone and some-what eerie quality to it. I REALLY want to go have my photo taken next time I'm in SF.

in addition to their portrait work they also hold Polaroid Rescue Workshops: This class teaches you how to find, buy, and repair Polaroid Land Cameras and, of course, how to use them properly to take amazing photos. You’ll learn which cameras to seek out on Ebay and in second-hand stores, and which ones are junk.

The studio is open 1-9pm Wednesday through Sunday. No appointment necessary, but call if you want a special time or private booking.

And The Winner is....

2011-11-01T20:06:00.001-07:00

The good ol' pulling a name from a bowl trick happened today and congrats to Janice for winning the Shabby Apple dress giveaway.

Janice picked out the L'Opera dress. I must admit I didn't see this one and I'm pretty jealous about now.

thanks to the rest of you for playing along. Hopefully the folks at Shabby Apple will let us do a new drawing very soon.

Wallis Simpson & George Clooney

2011-11-01T10:37:00.000-07:00

I've become obsessed with Wallis Simpson. I can hear you say who? Did you see The King's Speech? Remember the woman who convinced the King of England to step down and marry a divorceé S.C.A.N.D.A.L

I didn't give much thought to her until I just read an article in this month's Vogue about how she left her second husband for The King...and then regretted how she got into the mess in the first place. Vogue has some of the letters she wrote her second husband during that time telling him of her regrets. Have you ever got into the middle of something [Hum - my first marriage] and not know how to get OUT? I sympathized with her a great deal.

I also am quite interested in her style of course. She was apparently fond of a certain blue that was later named after her "Wallis Blue" I can't tell you how jealous I am of this. I want my own color, I say, stomping my feet like a 5 yr old. I am not a fan of abdicating the King to get such a thing though.

Interested in the scandal as well? The NY Times blog has a diddy about her today. I think it's this book and then of course Madonna's new movie coming out about her that have caused my curiosity.

.....

What does this have to do with George Clooney you ask? Nothing. I just wanted to tell you I had the MOST exciting dinner in this little tiny place in the Hollywood Hills Saturday night. George was there with his super tall girl, Russell Brand minus Katy and a couple others as well. In all of my days I've never seen anything like it. No, I won't tell you the name of the place. It's my secret. You'll have to come to LA and take me to dinner to find out.

happy halloween!

2011-10-31T10:55:00.001-07:00

we all go back to where we belong

2011-10-28T10:48:00.001-07:00

I have a love/hate relationship with REM but this song is so beautiful [odd video though]

Happy Friday.

girl crushes

2011-10-27T11:10:00.001-07:00

Last week or so fellow coolness blogger Woolgathering & Misc posted this photo along with the title Ladyboner. I think we ALL said ummmm YES.

so Monday when I read about the coolest creative director leaving her husband for a woman. I played match maker in my head. I mean Jenna Lyons JCrew SUPA STAR with this woman? shut.it.down.good.

alas, it was all a dream. The real girlfriend has been revealed

original photo via The Sartoralist

ever had a girl crush? spill the beans here sistah.

Shabby Apple Giveaway

2011-10-25T18:05:00.000-07:00

ladies, you know how I love a good dress right? It's the perfect outfit if you ask me, one whole outfit done without thought. You could walk into your closet in the dark and pick it out [don't tell me you DON'T DO THIS] Add a bracelet or two and a cardigan and you're done BAM!

The lovely folks at Shabby Apple have been so kind to let me host a giveaway here. I've picked my top favs from the site but you should really pop over and check out the site. If I had a rockin' little bod there would be many more options [alas the A- Line is so much kinder to my 40+ not.demi.moore.sized.butt] The best part of their site is their price points. I'm a bargain girl for sure and most of their dresses are under $100

The Shabby Apple people have also reassured me - because I asked. These are women's sizes not junior sizes if you know what I mean. There is nothing worse than trying on a size 8 only to have it really be a size 2. What a way to ruin a perfectly good day if you ask me.

So here is the scoop. Leave me a little note below. Tell me which one is your favorite from their site and I'll pick a name Nov 1st to win the dress of their choice. seriously.

quadrant
dresses top left : Upper East Side $72
top right: Washington Square Park $72
lower left: Bette D $88
lower right: VP $92

larger photo pink dressage from the sidesaddle collection $86 - Richie's styling notes: skip the riding boots with this one though - not a good call on styling for everyday. Swap belt out for a little skinny black patent leather, wear with a wedge heel for office or patent leather stacked heel for night.

larger photo blue Toe The Line chambray shirtdress $88 from the Set Sail Collection - Richie's styling notes: wear with white keds for summer or a wrap sweater and tall suede riding boots for winter.

also: because I just discovered it on their site: don't miss the accessories section I'm kinda in love with these silver flats.

color love

2011-10-25T12:47:00.001-07:00

I think if you asked anyone they would say working with color is the most fun and the hardest thing. Getting just the right shade is well...crucial. Working on some small samples for an upcoming shoot involving back drops. these just made me so happy I had to share.

plus aren't they cute? they look like giant pantone chips!

dreaming of coats

2011-10-23T11:35:00.000-07:00

That red one is calling my name [and the blue if you must know]. If you're shopping around just got an alert that today only online JCrew has 25% off and free shipping. use code LOVEFALL

like I need a hole in my head

2011-10-21T09:46:00.001-07:00

I have so much artwork around my house it's stacked on the floor in some places. some of it mine - friends and purchases. I might mention that it doesn't really stop me from wanting more. I mean how can you say no to pretty things on the wall?

My style is so far from French here in the house, so this may be the most ridiculous thing I've purchased. Oh wait, that 1200lb piece of steel in my garage might qualify as well. But I saw these on Megan's site this morning and I just hit BUY NOW. I couldn't take it - they were so amazing. I have a thing for vintage jewels.

So, I am now the proud owner of these three lovely illustrations. I might have a place for them if I retire something from rotation. If you're jealous, don't be, there are still a few left on this lovely site. You should go now before they go away.

Now, back to the mountain of work that I should be doing instead of buying silly things.

The bright side of my week

2011-10-20T18:17:00.000-07:00

a little shout out from The Rachel Zoe Team this afternoon. I know you want some for yourself

Anything

2011-10-18T10:25:00.001-07:00

This won't be a ground breaking post about much. Really I wanted anything ANYTHING to be posted besides what was below. That's why you're getting fashion today.

Some east coast travel over the weekend, and back to real life. I wish I could make last weeks happenings go away. I can't escape them here in town. Thursday are the services for my friend. It's going to be a really long week.

The pretty images though? Tommy Ton for Style.com. you should go look at the full rotation. Inspiring and helps you get away for just a moment.

2011-10-12T19:44:00.000-07:00

today was a very, very bad day. One of the days you wish you could wake up from - that it was all a dream.

You may be a new reader here or maybe I haven't mentioned in a while but I use to manage salons here in Long Beach. The salon world is small and intimate and at any one time I could walk into a good number of salons around town and run into someone I've worked with over the years.

That salon today in Seal Beach? Two of my former colleagues worked at. I've been sick all day thinking about them. Remembering funny stories about each of them. All the while frantically reloading pages, facebook waiting for news.

One is here with us, the other is not.

And here is what I want to say. She was an AMAZING {I'M TALKING ALL CAPS BOLD} WOMAN. I am not saying that because she's gone. She was one of the neatest women I've ever had the privilege of knowing. And I'm thinking of her tonight, her husband and two boys that were the center of her world.

I am in that same center nearly weekly for my bodywork person. I was there two weeks ago [and was suppose to be there late afternoon today] and I thought about popping my head in to say hi to both of them. I didn't, I was busy - had to get back to work and all that crap.

We must remember that tomorrow is never a guarantee. please hug your people today.

Edward Hopper Stamps

2011-10-12T11:20:00.000-07:00

Edward Hopper stamps area available through the USPS right now. I'm dreaming of a nautical invite suite with these cute things involved. Who's game?

Better yet, send a card to a friend - poor postal service is dying over here folks! Plus? You're friend gets a treat and a artful envelope to boot. Win-Win if you ask me.

Need some ideas?

looking chic

2011-10-11T14:04:00.001-07:00

Once upon a time I was chic. Before working for myself, from home, where somedays I don't see anyone for days or weeks at a time.

I'm working on getting back to chic [it just feels better yes?] - now I dress up for myself even though it doesn't matter. I should say {some days} because as I type this I'm wearing jeans and a tshirt, which could be chic, but let me promise you that this set is not.

Garance has a fun note today on her blog about this image that Scott Schuman aka The Sartorialist took of her. This lady is the queen of chic. In my next life I'll be her.

2011-10-09T13:58:00.000-07:00

gosh this catching up thing - has been a bit more than I expected. We are on our way to Part 2 later this week in Boston with Chris' family.

we don't have many photos yet [photog has not sorted] but this one is nice don't you think? After our vows with our tiny group of people.

My husband you ask? he's in the khaki suit behind me.

2011-10-05T09:30:00.001-07:00

still catching up from the weekend - see you soon

Matchbook

2011-10-03T14:23:00.001-07:00

The wedding weekend was stunning and perfect. So many things to tell and show you [whenever we get some images] it might be a few weeks from now till I really get to it.

meanwhile can I distract you with this lovely?

don't miss the new issue of Matchbook Magazine. This woman in red is my new hero.

see you on the other side

2011-09-30T10:48:00.000-07:00

off to get married to the most amazing man on the planet. I'm sorry single girls but he's all mine. see you all on the other side of MRS.

playing paper dolls

2011-09-28T17:51:00.001-07:00

Just keeping one eye on the European fashion shows before the big day. Rochas doesn't disappoint. I'm a fan of a long skirt are you? dunno, something about hiding my chubby knees. It's the details that count you know.

so today I played a bit of paper dolls. Please tell me you remember those? I suspect my niece has never heard of such a thing. Anyway, Rochas, Ready To Wear Spring 2012. Big Fan.

photos via style.com go see the whole show

Song of the Day: Lex Land

2011-09-28T06:22:00.000-07:00

I went looking for a cover she did on the same show - but it must be rights managed.

If you want to hear her blow it up listen to her cover of Jeff Buckley's "Everybody Wants You" available in their archive section

more scenes from the land of crazy

2011-09-27T14:37:00.001-07:00

just a few days till D - Day or should I say "M" for Married Day? Because our party of people is so small. I did custom bags for each person.

A cocktail of some sorts [sans the 13 year old who got root beer], a hydrating beverage, a late night snack, some advil, The hankie of course, and a weekend itinerary sheet with map of surrounding businesses [like coffee stores and liquor stores near by- yes it will be an interesting weekend] I can't tell you how happy it made me to find mini versions of St. Germain and Hendricks Gin.

The salted caramels from these lovely people will make you roll over and die with food love. I think I ate a 1/2 lb while making these baggies up. Notice the staple mark? yes, I stapled them shut so I couldn't get back in. They are that good.

still working on photographing the actual invite. stay tuned.

The Cults - Go Outside

2011-09-27T06:51:00.000-07:00

sweet little song with a dark video

took me a few seconds to figure out the vintage footage - I'm just on the edge of being too young to remember Jones Town. Interesting use of vintage footage with new.

The Cults - Go Outside.

A monday note

2011-09-26T10:19:00.000-07:00

it kinda feels and looks like this today
via>awesome

Countdown begins

2011-09-26T10:00:00.000-07:00

This morning I woke up at 3:30am – some awful dream I can't recall. Then it began the ticking notes of wedding countdown...3:30 became 4, 4 became 4:45. I write this puffy-eyed and headachy from lack of sleep.

or maybe it's left over from the giant vat of strawberry infused vodka I drank on saturday night thinking I was someone who DRINKS {I am not}

I still don't have a menu from my chef yet. This is what I'm thinking about this morning. That and the 1200 envelopes that my assistant and I have to print in the next 24 hrs. I'm not even exaggerating about that 1200 number, it will be my largest print project to date for a corporate client. Yeah and oh gawd are the two thoughts that go through my head about that.

This is what I know from my production days ... somehow it works out. And if it doesn't work out...there is something better that will take shape.

This still doesn't stop me from waking up at 3:30 in the morning. Tonight it will be a Advil PM

Click Your Heels And Say Yeah!

2011-09-21T12:47:00.000-07:00

there is a good chance that I might have a fever - feel my head? {humm...really?} because it's very unlike me to like anything this sparkily and funky. I'm sort of obsessed with these shoes though. I've been thinking about them daily.

Maybe next summer when some fashionista hawks them on ebay after the trend is over and I can pick them up for $100 and wear out the welcome of the trend of all that sparkles. They are available on the awesome site Net A Porter if you need them now {a wee bit more at $890}

The also have this basic heel as well, if you're looking for something more subtle. I think it's that wacky, warbily heel that is doing it for me. Now we just need a red pair so that we can click our heels together and pretend we're Dorthy. Available here I know that they are also available in other colors if you're in need.

The Plaid Suit

2011-09-20T19:19:00.000-07:00

so this is what the dude was trying to locate here in So. Cal for his wedding suit [an olive version] We have to take a vac-a to England or Scotland to make that happen. But I can say that now that I see it on Mr. Stevie I'm down {shhh don't tell him I wasnt' crazy about the idea in the first place}.

dang it - forgot my source on this photo - if it's yours let me know and I'll credit you

Sniffles & Tears

2011-09-18T13:24:00.000-07:00

I can tell you that it's a certain kind of hell to be a designer planning my own wedding. It certainly can be fun, don't get me wrong, but then there are these things you dream up. The curse of this is that sometimes what you dream up doesn't exist and you have to figure out how to create it and then there are other times you find awesome people to make it happen.

We are an allergy kind of couple, sniffles galore on a good day. I thought that I would find Chris a personalize hankie for our big day and one for me because I cry just thinking about it. What I found was actually BETTER.

I set up my custom file, sent it to my vendor [I opted for no painted edges old-school] and voilá I got this lovely piece of artwork back. Now originally I just ordered four. One for me, Chris, my mom and his dad [our best people] and then I couldn't take the awesomness of it and ordered one for all of our guests [a whopping 16]. I've already suggested it to my first bride I'm working with as a sweet thing for her and her guy.

It may get shoved to the back of a drawer for our other guests but I know that ours will get used for years to come.

-----
btw this is a sneak peek of the full wedding invite which is AMAZEBALLS if I do say so myself. Hand illustration by the amazing and talented Serena Chang. Click to enlarge.

awesome

2011-09-16T09:59:00.001-07:00

this is all kinds of awesome.

Oscar Love

2011-09-15T09:27:00.001-07:00

It's true, don't tell Chris but I'm in Love with Oscar de la Renta. I mean yes, he could be my grandfather but STILL I'm ok with that.

So two things from Oscar today. This dress in the first video, I would wear to the grocery store if permitted to be in the same room with greatness like his clothing.

and this one... because SJP is being serenaded by the man himself during this year's FNO [Fashion Night Out] event at the Oscar store. My girlfriend and I decided it's not fair that she has been able to play Carrie and wear all of those fantastic things and now THIS.

Yes, we are jealous I'm not too proud to say so.

fixie denim

2011-09-14T08:16:00.001-07:00

I don't know about your city but the Fixie craze is still going strong here in So Cal. Now every cool highschooler has a 2k bike cruising around town not knowing what to do with such equipment. BUT for the serious riders this may come in handy. Levis has developed a jean to help you hold onto your U Lock.

the bonus on these jeans based on the reviews from the website: "The anti-stink factor" aka antimicrobial Sanitized® technology and the water-repellent factor. Looks like from reviews you should go up one size to maximum cool factor. Skinny, but not too skinny, if you know what I mean.

about the jeans:
Designed for the commuting cyclist and detailed with multiple high-performance features, our new 511™ Commuter Jean combines form and function. Using our most popular skinny fit in stretch fabric, we have added a utility waistband, 3M™ reflectivity, a hidden cell phone pocket, water-repellent NanoSphere® nanotechnology, antimicrobial Sanitized® technology, and additional reinforcement throughout.

Available here for [reasonable] $78

new in the shop: Holla!

2011-09-13T11:09:00.001-07:00

just humoring myself again. I mean, don't we all have days we just want to send a shout out to a friend? My assistant and I keep saying "holla" to one another since printing it the other day.

available here

NYFW Spring 2012

2011-09-13T10:27:00.001-07:00

I have to admit I'm too busy at the moment to be as rabid about NYFW [New York Fashion Week] as I normally am. I stopped in today thought to browse. My girl Barbara TFank has not disappointed. I really think her name is not out there enough. From her presentation review:

Barbara Tfank started out as a costume designer, so it's no big surprise she fell for Elizabeth Taylor, whose on-screen looks were always so perfectly executed. "It's like geometry," Tfank said during her presentation, explaining the importance of the emphasized shoulder and the nipped-in waist. So, in a winking tribute to Taylor and her magnificent décolletage, Tfank coiffed her models in Liz wigs and padded their bras ("it's hard to find models with a lot going on up top," she confided).

I'm not a pattern person normally but that black floor length piece is making me very happy.

See her full show on Style.com
all photos by Style.com

2011-09-11T20:41:00.000-07:00

f*ck wine glasses, I want to register for this

The amazing Slim Aarons.

wedding count down btw... like 3 weeks or some crazy shite like that.

In a New York State of Mind

2011-09-09T09:35:00.000-07:00

I've been holding New York in my heart these past days thinking about that day.

We love you NY

photo first seen here but photographed by this person

featured: Oh So Beautiful Paper

2011-09-08T15:42:00.000-07:00

very excited to be featured today on Oh So Beautiful Paper with my suite for clients Susie and Bradford

2011-09-07T18:41:00.000-07:00

having done casting, this is truly shocking that the client would agree to it. This part of the process of making the commercial is more interesting than the actual but thought I would share it regardless.

I've never used the product...have you?

little red riding hood

2011-09-06T18:05:00.001-07:00

this has my name written all over it. also available in blue, black and olive

thanks to the greedy girl for not being greedy with her find

The Suit

2011-09-06T11:30:00.000-07:00

I tried to get him to shop in August for his wedding suit, but he kept telling me it only takes a week for them to tailor it. He wants a super special tweed suit from, like, Scottish Tweed. Guess what? Scottish Tweed doesn't really happen here in LA. I think that he's decided that the three piece khaki from JCrew will have to do.

between you and me? I love it.

Nobody Said It Was Easy

2011-09-01T10:50:00.000-07:00

Do you have a Chipotle near you? if you don't it's a great burrito store [or Mexican food] I applaude their integrity toward their food.

"Through our vision of Food with Integrity, Chipotle is seeking better food not only from using fresh ingredients, but ingredients that are sustainably grown and naturally raised with respect for the animals, the land, and the farmers who produce the food."

This recent ad features Willie Nelson redoing a Coldplay song along with great animation. I've always liked their product and I knew a bit about the meat sourcing they did but this definitely puts them in my "best" category of places to eat rotation.

**for some reason the video isn't loading correctly on my page please click here to watch please watch, you won't be sorry.

I'm with VT

2011-08-31T09:43:00.001-07:00

One of my dear friends is in Vermont - luckily she and her husband are ok but she tells me some of her coworkers have lost everything during the storm. Thought I would pass this along. Independent Vermont Clothing is donating all the proceeds to the Red Cross.

[from their site] All of the profits (about $15 PER shirt) benefit the Red Cross' efforts to get Vermonters back on their feet after the recent devastating floods.

This shirt is now available for PRE-ORDER. It will be printed September 15th.

thanks to Design Crush for the info

bananas

2011-08-29T16:31:00.001-07:00

because this will be the highpoint of my week.

Mr. Brad Goreski mentioned me today on Twitter - granted I did send him a question but alas I just touched virtual shoulders with the bow tie master himself.

BTW we're on the hunt this weekend for Chris' wedding suit. He wants something classic but a little funky in the brown/plaid/glen plaid field. Of course I'm drawing a blank. Have a suggestion? send it my way.

Hedi

2011-08-22T19:14:00.000-07:00

in the land where everyone is sexy and young...

I adore and admire the photo diary of Hedi Slimane The man has got the black and white thing down.

I know you're saying but wait Hedi is a girl? No. Read here it will explain

new in the studio - chevron stripe invite

2011-08-20T11:30:00.000-07:00

super clean and sharp invite suite got finished up this week. It's my first time using a chevron and I'm kinda hooked!

I've made it available for sale on Etsy in case you're in love as much as I am.

2011-08-17T17:34:00.000-07:00

A Long Time - Mayer Hawthorne from MayerHawthorne on Vimeo.

this is special for Susannah because I know she likes to get down and boogie with her lamé and headbands.
thanks to gregory han for the tip off

fall colors

2011-08-16T16:06:00.000-07:00

ooh that blue. and don't get me started on the cranberry and pink combo.
all from DVF

in love with a rug?

2011-08-16T10:50:00.000-07:00

I said to Chris last night as I was fondling my Elle Decor. "I'm not sure it's possible to be in love with a rug, but if so, I am". He wasn't impressed. He wasn't even convinced it was a rug to be honest. He thought it was wood. Rothko inspired of course. You know I'm a sucker for Rothko.

Warp & Weft
designer studio collection by Annette Rusin

I'm afraid to even know how much this sucker costs. 10k? 20?

2011-08-15T10:02:00.000-07:00

YES.

seen here

2011-08-12T19:28:00.000-07:00

friday night in the big city. waiting for C to get home, I'm cruzing Pinterest and thinking about makeup and hair. I'm loving this pretty in pink look.

via here

The Art of the Letter

2011-08-10T11:40:00.001-07:00

recently, I've had a couple of opportunities to talk about printing and greetings. It's probably no secret that I like a greeting card.

So here is what I've figured out: I don't know of a single person that has printed a tweet, an email or a text out and put it on their mantle. Maybe you have? Tell me, because if you did, I'm curious.

sending a card or a letter is a treat for the receiver. It's also a lost art and apparently I'm not the only one noticing. Today on CNN the headline Is Handwriting Dead? It's not a secret, I'm assuming, that our kids can't write cursive.

I see a huge future for these people, The Snail Mail Project, that you can have an email transcribed for you and sent to your desired person. [are we that lazy? really?]

The Art of the Personal Letter is available through Amazon and others should you be in the need for a fresh course on what to say.