Beyond

How to Look Stylish When it Hot as HECK Outside!

June 13, 2013

Is anyone else out there suffering in this summer heat. It seems like one day is was a nice and comfortable 75 degrees and then the next it was sweltering in the 90’s! While I love summer and love the sun, this extreme heat is making me a bit wonky!

The last couple of mornings I’ve gotten up, taken a shower, coiffed the hair and proceeded to get dressed only to sit there wondering what do I wear in this heat, not only to stay cool but to look stylish as well! While my go-to clothing piece this time of year is a summer dress, the heat got me thinking about the best accessories to wear when its hot, hot, hot outside. Here are my thoughts….

STATEMENT EARRINGS

If I know I’m going to be outside running around town, I often forgo a necklace and wear bold statement earrings instead. Something colorful and dangly will give a simple summer dress that wow factor.

A CANVAS OR STRAW BAG

When hot weather strikes, its time to put the leather handbag away and pull out a cute canvas or straw bag.

I adore this bag from ArdenB. but unfortunately they are sold-out all over the country (I checked all over the country). Here’s another bag that made my favorites list.

A HAT

Because it’s cute, because I don’t have to spend lots of time curing my hear and because its fashionable! I just picked up this bargain priced summer hat and am in the process of making interchangeable bands out of ribbon to work with anything I wear.

PRETTY NAIL POLISH

So you might not think of nail polish as an accessory but during the summer months, a beautiful color on your nails is a fashion statement.

SANDALS

This probably goes without saying but I did want to specify the type of sandals I’m talking about. While flip-flops have their place, I can’t stand hearing that “clacking” sound that goes with wearing them. Plus they are not good for your feet people! Instead, opt for a cute strapy sandal that looks more polished and stylish.

SUNGLASSES

I L.O.V.E. me some sunglasses and think they are probably the one accessory you can’t go without during the summer. And, being the age where ‘readers’ are becoming a necessity, I am so happy to have discovered sunglass readers at Steinmart. Oh what a joy to keep the sun out of my eyes and be able to read at the same time.

RED LIPSTICK

In my book red lipstick is a color for every day of the year but on sunny summer days red lips are a burst of sunshine.

And it all else fails, having one of these around your ankles is the best way to stay stylish in the summer heat.

Stay cool (and stylish) my friends and enjoy your summer!

Art Crush: Pencil Drawings

June 11, 2013

When it comes to artwork I love an eclectic mix of pieces which I think gives my décor a real personal edge. I’ve never had pencil drawings as part of my art mix but recently I had a pencil portrait of my mom framed and was instantly taken by this style of artwork. The portrait was created when I was in college by a friend of my dad and has instantly become one of my treasured pieces of art.

Now that I have this piece in my home, I am on a mission to add other pencil drawings to my collection. In doing research for a local artist, I came across Jeff Kerns, an artist that specializes in creating portraits. Jeff started drawing at an early age and over they years has worked with lots of different art mediums as well as designing logos for companies. In 1992 Jeff realized his love of portrait art and went back to creating that full-time. Today Jeff creates portraits in pencil, pastels and oils and works with clients all over the country. Here’s a look at some of his work.

Jeff can do pencil drawings from a photo or you can schedule a portrait sitting with him at one of his studios here in Atlanta.

I would love to create a gallery wall with a grouping of pencil portraits of family photos and have been inspired by these images. While I want my collection to be more casual, I love the uniqueness that pencil art can add to a home.

I have several photos I want Jeff to recreate in pencil for me including these two.

My brother

My brother and nephew

To see more of Jeff’s work and to contact him, check out his website here. His prices for pencil art start at just $30.00.

portraits images via Jeff Kerns, room images via pinterest

Thrifting and a few Highligts from Scotts

June 10, 2013

Top of the morning to everyone. I hope you had a good weekend!

I spent a good chunk of my weekend thrifting at a few local haunts and made a trip to Scott Antique Market to see what goodies I could find there. I didn’t attend Scott last month so I was excited for the show this month. One of my favorite vendors at the show brings boxes and boxes of items he purchases from estate sales, auctions and antique dealers. His usual set-up consist of about 20+ tables loaded with stuff, some good and some on the “junk” side. Looking through his tables is always an experience and most times I come away with a few good pieces. I buy most of my milk glass from him and he always has piles and piles of vintage jewelry which is a draw for me.

Whenever I go to Scott to shop “my guy” as I affectionately call him, I go on Thursday, the first day the show opens. His stuff sells fast and there is always a crowd. I’ll make sure to take photos of his space next month and show you the madness.

Anyhow, here’s a look-see at what I picked up from Scott’s and a few other spots around town.

I found this old scale and couldn’t resist. $8.00!

These vintage McLaughlin Milk glass bottles were a great find at only $3.00 each. I’ve seen these selling on-line for as much as $40.00 a piece.

I adore vintage jewelry!

I’ve wanted to start collecting ironstone and was thrilled to find this piece for $5.00. I feel a new obsession collection starting to build.

Aren’t these woven knobs cute? “My guy” sold me these for .50 each.

This was probably my best buy from Scotts. These unfinished oval frames which measured 48″ x 32″ were $5.00 a piece. Image the mirror, chalkboard, corkboard options!

After making my purchases at Scott’s I made the rounds and snapped a few photos of things that caught my eye.

Love this mid-century modern lamp at the Parker Kennedy booth. David and Lance always have a stunning booth filled with incredible pieces.

This gorgeous chest is also a Parker Kennedy piece. That hardware is to die for!

I loved this tabletop vignette.

A stunning piece of furniture!

Arched top shutters…so beautiful. I would use these pieces inside a home as décor.

This Grandmother clock was fabulous.

Another pretty piece of furniture. The mirrored back and scalloped detailing really gave this piece its uniqueness.

After Scott’s I stopped at my one of my favorite flea markets and found a few things…

I’ve had great luck selling the other scales I’ve come across in my Etsy shop so this one will be headed there as soon as I clean it up a bit. This one is large and a really beauty.

I also found this Mottaheda Pinecone Finial( turned lamp) for $14.00. This baby is solid brass and gorgeous. I spotted the finial selling on-line for $200!

I’m so fortunate that Atlanta and the surrounding suburbs have lots of antique stores, thrift shops and flea markets to shop at. A few days before Scott’s my friend Dorothy and I made a trip to visit Antique Traditions and on the way there we spotted church thrift store. Of course we had to make a U-turn and pop in for a visit.

I picked up this beautiful blue glass bowl for $2.00 and the slate blue egg cups for .25 each.

And this original oil painting was $4.00.

I also found a pair of ornate wall plaques with a mirrored center . These pieces hang vertically and will look great flanking a larger mirror.

And finally, I found what is likely to be one of my most favorite pieces ever at an auction I attended last week.

This stunning cuckoo clock made my heart flutter. I love the detailing and the old world charm it has. I was told by someone at the auction to get it appraised but what I know so far is that it is a Schneider Black Forest Cuckoo Clock, maybe worth in the hundreds!

All in all, the past few days have resulted in some of my best thrifting finds. I love the thrill of the hunt and coming home with a few things to keep or sell in my shops is always good!

Color Crush: Cobalt

June 7, 2013

I’m all about vibrant colors this summer and the color Cobalt has me swooning!

Do you have a new “favorite” color this summer?

images via pinterest

UpStyle Your Bed: 8 Easy Tips

June 4, 2013

The bedroom is probably the most important room in your home for so many reasons. As a source for relaxation, rejuvenation and rest, your bedroom deserves to look its best.

The art of creating a stylish and comfortable bedroom can be achieved in 8 easy steps…

No. 1

A Headboard is required for a stylish bedroom. The current trend is upholstered headboard because of the softness and style they add to a bedroom, but a decorative wood or iron headboard will give you the same dynamic impact.

No. 2

A quick way to add unique style to your bed is by using the mix-and-match method with your bed linens. Pair a patterned flat sheet with a fitted solid sheet and then use pillowcases in a different pattern to add to the mix. Investing in different styles of sheets and pillowcases will allow you to change-up the look of your bed on a regular basis. And a decorative throw blanket is always a great last layer to a UpStyled bed.

No. 3

Makes sure to accent your bed with Accent Pillows. One, two or even more accents pillows in fun patterns and colors will add that designer touch to your bedroom. Whenever I see a pillow on clearance that will work with my bedroom décor, I snap it up and stash it away. When I make seasonal changes to my bedding, changing our the accent pillows makes a big impact.

No. 4

While not the case with every bed, most beds and bedroom décor will benefit from the addition of unique item hung on the wall above the headboard. The area above the bead gives you the perfect opportunity to create a focal point in the room and add a bold style statement. A grouping of multiple items adds just as much impact as one large item.

No. 5

Texture is king in a stylish bedroom. Dress you bed in linens that have surface interest or a textured pattern. Matelassé coverlets are always a good option and provide a subtle texture that you can build upon. And don’t forget that pillows are part of the texture mix.

No. 6

If you’re looking for a dramatic way to UpStyle your bed, hanging drapes behind the head of the bed might be the answer. A swag of fabric, while somewhat traditional in feeling adds an element of romance and visual height to the room.

No. 7

Is the bedskirt on your bed there to hide the stuff stored under the bed OR is it there to add style to your bed décor? Style should be the key reason you use a bedskirt on the bed. Not only does a bedskirt add softness and make your bed look more grand, but that bit of fabric that hangs to the floor is another way to add pattern, texture and personality to your décor. The image above uses a collection of decorative dish towels to create a fun bedskirt.

No. 8

Layering is the ultimate UpStyle trick for your bedroom. With your bed décor, the layers start under the bed at the floor and work their way up to the everything that sits on and surrounds your bed. The rug is a layer, the bedding is a layer, the wall décor is a layer and all the decorative elements that sit on your nightstand are layers. Just like the décor in other parts of your home, layering the decorative elements adds a sense of depth and warmth and makes a space feel more complete.

Creating a designer looking bedroom is not as hard as it seems. Incorporating one or all of these tips will get your bedroom style moving in the right direction and will surely help you UpStyle Your Bed.

Happy Decorating!

What’s New in the Shop(s)

June 3, 2013

Happy Monday!

I hope you all had a fantastic weekend! My weekend was pretty low-key with lots of work, lots of creating and a little R & R thrown into the mix.

I had dreaded sitting down at my computer to update my Etsy shops but finally I got it done. I’ve added a slew of new vintage finds , lots of new jewelry pieces and some fun paper products. My little hands have been busy.

Here’s a glimpse of what’s new…

Vintage Emerald Green Vase

Vintage Milk Glass Lidded Dish

Vintage Navy Marblelized Ice Bucket (perfect Father’s Day gift)

Vintage Jadite Bubble Bowl

Handcrafted Gift Wrap Embellishment Pins

Stylish Gift Tags

Handcrafted Vintage Hardware Necklace

Gold Pendant Necklace with Pearl Drop

You can view all the new vintage and handcrafted jewelry pieces at my ConfettiStyleDesign shop

and you’ll find fun paper products, gift wrapping supplies and embellishments at my new RufflesandRemnants shop!

I hope you’ll take a moment to stop by and see what’s new. While you are there make sure the follow my shops so you’ll get notified of new items, special and sale events.

I have been in a super creative mood the last few weeks and it feels great. Between design projects, making jewelry and vintage shopping, I’ve also been working on new clipboard designs. You’ll see the new styles available in the shop by this weekend.

The week ahead is looking like a busy one with a couple of design meetings on the schedule, Scott Antique Market on Thursday (I didn’t go last month) and I finally decided what I’m going to paint pink.

Cheers to a stellar week ahead!

Fashion Focus: 6 Accessories I Want for Summer

May 30, 2013

With the passing of Memorial Day, summer is officially here! In my book it’s time to pull out the bright colors, fun footwear, straw totes and bold jewelry. These are just a few of the items I want to add to my summer wardrobe!

Handmade Rose Garden Necklace $ 29.00

Mossimo Large Straw Tote $ 34.99

Run Around Framed Stone Earrings $ 78.00

Foxy Stud Earrings $ 2.80

Multi Colored Espadrilles $ 29.90

Filigree Cuff $ 5.80

What new pieces are you shopping for this summer?

A Patio Spruce Up

May 20, 2013

Remember when I told you about my favorite outdoor pillow from World Market? The beautiful paisley pillow that I used in an outdoor deck design for a client

Well it seems that more than one of my clients loved this pillow as much as I did.

A couple of weeks ago, LW asked me to help here spruce up here covered patio. The goal was to use as much of the existing furniture as possible, update the look and infuse new styles and color into the space.

We started with one dark green chaise cushion that we wanted to keep and black iron furniture.

And these were a few of the accessories that we like, all from World Market.

Mercer Metal Lanterns

Chevron Pillow

Aegean Ceramic Hurricanes

In little over a week this is the space that we pulled together….

LW’s outdoor patio is covered so there is not a lot of direct sunlight that filters in. The bright colors help to visually open up the space and keep it cheerful.

The red chair and loveseat cushions add a playful punch and look great against the black iron furniture.

The green chaise cushion that LW already had adds some depth and looks great with the paisley pillow. A striped throw was added for a pattern contrast.

We originally started with another coffee table option but this round iron table was a last-minute score at World Market. The round table provides a break from all the square and rectangular furniture pieces.

Two pots sit on a side table, one is a water feature and the other holds a plant. The basket under the table hides the cords to the water feature {and add some visual texture}.

We opted for a stripe pillow for the side chair.

The near wall had some open space so we move an already existing outdoor storage chest there and created a seating area. The paisley cushion and chevron pillows work great together to brighten this corner.

The white garden seat (sold in stores only) adds a table surface to this corner. And the bench, which was existing, got a new cushion and is perfect for propping your feet up or as additional seating.

To create somewhat of a visual window, hanging pieced glass lanterns were added above the railing and hold battery operated candles. The mosaic pattern is beautiful against the sunlight and at night with the candles glowing.

LW’s adorable chow, AVA is really enjoying the new outdoor carpet that was installed. Because this space does get some water exposure the carpet had to be industrial grade.

The subtle swirl pattern with green and red flecks works great with the color theme of the patio.

In the far corner of the patio a few decorative accents were added to the top of an existing storage cabinet.

I’m so glad I was able to help LW create an outdoor living room that she and Ava will enjoy for years to come.

And thanks to World Market for creating a pillow that has inspired a nation!

For information about my affordable in-home or e-design services, please click here!

This is not a sponsored post, just sharing my love for World Market products!

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