That's a Wrap!

On my lazy (and uninspired) days you'll probably find me in a pair of slouchy jeans, a tee and the essential wrap. Wrap cardigans and sweaters are a staple that I always carry in my purse. With weather that can change on a dime, it's always necessary to have something to cover up with when the fog rolls in.

Recently, the wrap has been service as a multipurpose piece in my wardrobe. For my, more inspired, "work" days I like a more structured look with a pop of color, stripes or a pattern and a fun skirt. I love having so many versatile pieces in my closet to mix and match with. I also enjoy finding news ways to wear an old favorite; it often satisfies that constant itch to shop. What are your favorite multipurpose pieces?

Theory skirt & belt, Ella Moss wrap, Corso Como heels, Handmade necklace, vintage earring, and flea market bracelet

BR wrap, Rachel Roy skirt, BCBG belt, Steven heels, vintage necklace

The perfect place to rest my head

As of late, I have been obsessed with the idea of a new bed. Thanks to Pintrest.com, scouring the internet has become a one-stop-shop! I know that before long I will have countless boards for interiors, design, fashion, photography, etc. and far to many DIY projects for one lifetime... but hey, you won't hear me complaining.

The idea of a DIY recycled wood headboard has dominated my search and I have found so many great examples to inspire me! I may have just found my first project for the upcoming four day weekend and I can't wait to get started!

Source: housetweaking.com via Chelsea on Pinterest

Source: apartmenttherapy.com via Chelsea on Pinterest

Source: sfgirlbybay.com via Chelsea on Pinterest

Source: tilev.com via Chelsea on Pinterest

Source: None via Chelsea on Pinterest

Source: shelterness.com via Chelsea on Pinterest

Source: houzz.com via Chelsea on Pinterest

Wish List: Ready for Fall

1. Anthropologie - Topology Dress
2. Leather Jacket
3. Scarf - Ralph Lauren
4. Bag - Madewell
5. Necklace
6. Bracelet
7. Sandal - Matt Benson

Solids & Stripes: A Nautical Nod

I am a big fan of stripes, so I have been thrilled with the recent nautical nods from this spring and summer. This is a trend that I fully intend to carry on into fall, especially with the warmer temperatures (hopefully) approaching for San Francisco in the next few months.

My dad is an avid sailor and when in Wisconsin I take on the role of first mate, so I'll admit that this nautical tribute would get me thrown off the boat! This outfit, with it's feminine ruffles and puff selves is slightly more work appropriate than it is water friendly. Not to worry... trade the heels for deck shoes, the sweater for a bikini, add a floppy hat, sunnies and sunscreen and you're ready for the dock!

What are your favorite summer trends that you plan to carry in to fall?

Banana Republic sweater, Corey Lynn Calter skirt, Corso Como heels, Hobo clutch, and Marc Jacobs necklace, Sally Hansen "Trouble Maker" nail polish

Style Embraced

NOWNESS - Advanced Style: Age and Beauty

I first saw this film short back in March and was very inspired! Yesterday, I ran across it again and felt that it had to be shared. The thing I love most about the women featured here is that they fully embrace the "no rules" take on fashion; it is what YOU make of it! I encourage all to go forth and embrace your style, wear what you love and have fun with it!



Advanced Style: Age and Beautyfrom Ari Cohen on Nowness.com.

LANVIN: Cutout Heel Pump

Last week while searching through the September issue of Vogue I fell in love... with a heel of course! It's not everyday a shoe this beautiful comes along, and at $1,552 you've better be in love before adding these to your closet!

When I first saw this shoe it was available for pre-order at Nordstrom.com, however, now it seems it may be too late... these bad boys went like hot cakes!

Images via Nordstrom.com

Perfectly "Poiple"

As a little girl my grandmother would always tease me that purple was pronounced "poiple" when we played Candy Land. At the time this would infuriate me to no end... however, now I look back on these days and smile (especially when I found "poiple" in the urban dictionary). Every time I wear these purple pants I am reminded of Grandma Julia and the days I spent home sick from school, playing Candy Land trying to convince her that plums are actually purple.  I love it when my clothes make me feel nostalgic and wish for simpler times!

Anthropologie silk pants, Madewell cardigan, old white t-shirt, Guess wedges, Dad's vintage belt, Mom's bracelet,  Handmade wooden necklace, Purse from Fancy French Cologne

Another BIG thank you to the talented Jonathan Jaeger for taking these shots!

Foto Friday

The most prominent visual influence in my life is photography, probably even before fashion and design.   Therefore, I have decided to dedicate Fridays to my love for photography. Today I am featuring the man whose work I admire most, RICHARD AVEDON.

I cannot begin to tell you the influence Richard Avedon's work has had on my life. I don't believe I have words to adequately describe the emotion that I feel when viewing one of his photographs or reading about the process and the passion he had for what he did.  I believe he says it best himself:

"And if a day goes by without my doing something related to photography, it's as though I've neglected something essential to my existence, as though I had forgotten to wake up. I know that the accident of my being a photographer has made my life possible." -Richard Avedon, 1970

Richard Avedon died on October 1, 2004. The New York Times published an obituary that read, "his fashion and portrait photographs helped define America's image of style, beauty and culture for the last half-century."

It would be near impossible for me to choose my favorite pieces of Avedon's work; there are so many! However, since this is a blog mostly about fashion I decided to share a few images that demonstrate his contribution to the fashion industry.

To further explore the work of Richard Avedon you can visit The Richard Avedon Foundation.

Enjoy! Happy Friday everyone!

Passant du Siecle portfolio: The 1990's, Stephanie Seymour, in Chanel, Paris, April 1995

Dovima with elephants, evening dress by Dior, Cirque d'Hiver, August 1955

Homage to Munkacsi. Carmen, coat by Cardin, Place Francois-Premier, Paris, August 1957

Veruschka, dress by Bill Blass, New York, January 1967

Renee, "The New Look of Dior," Place de la Concorde, Paris, August 1947

Veruschka, dress by Kimberly, New York, January 1967

Richard Avedon with Veruschka, dress by Kimberly, New York, January 1967

I'll take one of everything, please...

 See by Chloe/Pre Fall 2011-

Check out the pre fall line for See by Chloe on Fabsugar.com; Amazing! I can't wait to sport all looks inspired by this line. I am in love with the soft colors, graphic prints and perfect touch of femininity in each look. Not to mention the boots; so excited for fall fashion!

Images via wikifashion.com

Chalk + Dot: Modern finds for the modern family

Last Friday morning, on my day off, I woke up to a surprise text message from one of my best friends. The text was an ultrasound picture announcing that she's pregnant! I was so excited, I hopped out of bed and called her right away to congratulate her on this exciting news!

After hearing this fabulous news I was reminded of something else that I wanted to share with everyone. One of my friends, and former coworkers, has a blog that is great for any mother to be (as well as everyone else). The blog, Chalk + Dot, is by two friends who went to architecture school and have a fabulous eye for design. It's geared towards the modern family, but can be great inspiration for anyone.

Pictured below is one of my favorite nursery mood boards with pieces that I love for just about anywhere in the house, as well as same great maternity wear for expecting mothers!

http://chalkanddot.com/

http://byhandorbysea.wordpress.com/

Black & White

Although most days I try to incorporate pops of color into my outfits, on occasion I go for the simple, yet classic black and white ensemble. I may be channeling last weeks grey and dreary weather... or just feeding into my recent obsession with searching through old black and white photography. Either way, I am loving the pairing of these pieces; a flirty feminine top over a flowing black maxi dress.

Susana Monaco maxi dress, Nanette Lepore sheer top, Brass leaf necklace, American Apparel belt, Dolce Vita Wedges, and Anthropologie sunglasses

Oysters & Wine

This past (3 day) weekend was filled with amazing outdoor activities, and although I'm exhausted, I enjoyed every second! Sunday morning I headed up to the Tomales Bay with a few friends for oysters and wine. We picnicked at the Tomales Bay Oyster Company; a fabulous spot right on the water, prefect for any day of the week. Although it's first-come, first-serve for seating, I recommend getting there early (around 10) as the tables fill up quickly. 


After filling up on Oysters we headed off to the Cuvaison Carneros Winery in Sonoma, on our way back to the city. Nestled on a hillside just off HYW 121 this winery has amazing modern architecture, beautiful views, excellent service and fabulous wine. It was the perfect way to wrap up the weekend!

One of the unexpected elements of yesterday was the unbelievably nice weather. A drawback to the summers in the Bay Area is that it's difficult to know what to expect, fog, rain, wind, or a perfect day. This was one of those perfect days; great for fun summer dresses and soaking up the sunshine! Clearly I misjudged the weather and ended up wishing I had picked something slightly cooler and more summery... Oh well, next time I will be more prepared.

Patterson J. Kincaid dress, leggings, American Apparel belt, Dolce Vita wegdes and a handmade necklace

A VERY big thank you to my very talented friend, Jon, for helping me out with some of these pictures! I hope everyone had a great weekend, enjoy!

Rosie

 Images by the talented Jonathan Jaeger and Heels and Sunkissed Curls