A Casa da Vá

Hungry For Change

2013-04-07T16:44:00.001-07:00

Dear friends,

I am taking a sabbatical to reevaluate a few things, redesign my brand and

reconnect with what I am committed to put out there in the world.

Yes this is a self-intervention on me - as weird as it sounds, I am kinda loving it!

I am excited to be back more inspired and hopefully, inspiring!

Change can often feel intimidating and look chaotic - but on the other side of the spectrum if you are truly connected with your worth, your purpose and your truth there will be nothing but butterflies...

Mi casa, featured at Roco Magazine

2013-03-19T19:55:00.000-07:00

Rachael Colton, a blog friend, a wonder woman, a designer, a style lover and the editor-in-chief of Roco Magazine has chosen mi casa (more specifically, my master bedroom) to be featured at her lovely magazine.

"The magazine highlights the wonderful design found in Ireland and across the globe, bringing beautiful images of interiors, inspiring features and interesting products to its readers."

My former bedroom was featured at her now extinct blog back in 2011 (see it here) while I was crashing my parent's pad in Rio de Janeiro. It is like coming full circle and completing a cycle when I get to compare where and who I was back then and where and who I am now. So thank you Rachael for the opportunity to get present to this and count this blessing!

Although I have kept the same bedspread - a much loved gift from my mom - I am so very grateful for all the personal, professional and spiritual growth that has taken place. I am finally off antidepressant and anti-anxiety drugs and able to feel like myself again, have the focus, commitment and eagerness to meditate, work out and have a health routine. Wow it is so mind-blowing what can be achieved in 2 years...

This is the bedroom from 2011:

"Roco believes that beauty can be found everywhere, we all need inspiration, live life with Your Style, appreciate the small details as well as the large, enjoy moments with friends, finding the right colour of paint is pure bliss." - Roco Magazine

ps: Yep, I designed a malachite flat iron (details and a giveaway will be disclosed soon!)

Check out the Spring issue here of Roco Magazine!

A Flamingo in a flock of Pigeons

2013-03-10T19:17:00.000-07:00

"She is pure Alice in Wonderland, and her appearance and demeanor are a nicely judged mix of the Red Queen and a flamingo." - Truman Capote

Personality Assessment:

are you a pigeon or a flamingo?

I just finish reading 'Good girls don't get the corner office' by Lois P. Frankel and it blows my mind how much we can sabotage ourselves. Even thou the book is mainly focused on career choices and behaviors, I couldn't stop wondering... what other areas in live are we playing safe? Would you rather blend in and pass by an entire existence unnoticed just because it feels safe?

“Why are trying so hard to fit in, when you're born to stand out” ― Oliver James

I must quote one of our favorite risk-takers, Kelly Wearstler, which some love and others love to hate. “You have to take risks. If you don’t, you can’t evolve.” It takes a lot of courage to leave the house in the morning looking like she does or to tell a client that your idea of a home sweet home looks like this:

I am now reading 'Start the right business' by Marie Forleo and I was very touched when she says "You’re on the planet for a reason. God, the Universe - whatever you believe in - does not make any “extra” peeps just for the hell of it. No other person ever has, or ever will, have the unique blend of talents, strengths and perspective that you have."

So I thought to myself... going beyond the status quo it is like owning our truth self and expressing God's true will.

“Whenever you find yourself on the side of the majority, it is time to pause and reflect.” ― Mark Twain

“The individual has always had to struggle to keep from being overwhelmed by the tribe. If you try it, you will be lonely often, and sometimes frightened. But no price is too high to pay for the privilege of owning yourself.” ― Friedrich Nietzsche

It sounds brilliant as a concept but throughout the day which voice do we mainly hear: The pigeon or the flamingo?

Who rescued who?

2013-02-21T11:31:00.001-08:00

After a year of taking antidepressant and anti-anxiety drugs and still experiencing the unsettling feeling that there was something missing, a dog came into my life. Not just any dog, but one just like my parents have in Brazil (remember Fanny?).

He was an injured frenchie in need of a home. And I was an empty house in need of something bigger than my ordinary life. So really... who rescued who?

I couldn't have asked for a more sweet, loving and perfect dog. When he arrived he was hurt, traumatized and with burn wounds. He wouldn't even leave the house because he was so scared he would be abandoned. I couldn't even raise my voice a bit and he would hide. The entire experience of both os us falling in love and healing each other took time, care, patience and vet money but I wouldn't trade for anything in the world.

"If you can't adopt - foster...

If you can't foster - sponsor...

If you can't sponsor - volunteer...

If you can't volunteer - donate...

If you can't donate - educate, network, and crosspost...

Everyone can do something, large or small, to help save a life..."

ps: I am building him a canopy dog bed and I can't wait to share it with you! Oh I did I mentioned he learned to high five? By the way François has gone viral!

Image credit: 1,2 & 4 acasadava 3

No place like home

2013-01-27T07:42:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago it came to my surprise the fact that my passport was expired. That meant that I couldn't renew it in time to spend Christmas in Brazil. Now I am finally able to fly home and celebrate late Holidays with family.

That also came with the news of some illness in my family, and with that and the beginning of the new year I find myself questioning a lot of things. I just finished watching again '13 going on 30' and felt quite related to what Jenna was going through - do I recognize myself? Do I have regrets? Am I proud of my choices and who I became?

"I think we all - I think all of us - want to feel something that we've forgotten or turned our backs on because maybe we didn't realize how much we were leaving behind. We need to remember what used to be good. If we don't, we won't recognize it even if it hits us between the eyes." - Jenna, 13 years old

2013 resolutions? Simple... like spend time with family, organize and keep documents up to date and find my place in the world!

Images credit:

1 Red Magazine, styled by Twig Hutchinson | 2 Dorothy | 3&4 Jenna by Jennifer Garden

If only in my dreams

2012-12-25T09:46:00.003-08:00

I'm dreamin' tonight of a place I love
Even more then I usually do
And although I know it's a long road back
I promise you
I'll be home for Christmas
You can count on me
Please have snow and mistletoe
And presents under the tree
Christmas Eve will find me
Where the love light beams
I'll be home for Christmas
If only in my dreams
Christmas Eve will find me
Where the love light beams
I'll be home for Christmas
If only in my dreams
If only in my dreams

This is our first Christmas on our own, as a couple and with our puppy and unfortunately seeing our families only through FaceTime. And we are starting our own traditions, cooking a pescatarian dinner, and french toast casserole for breakfast and choosing a teal and pink decor as replacement for the classic red and green.

What are your traditions?

"Remember, if Christmas isn't found in your heart, you won't find it under a tree." - Charlotte Carpenter

Images source here

Gypsy Soul

2012-12-08T23:04:00.003-08:00

It is no big news that my design aesthetic is quite eclectic. So I was thrilled when my friend Caitlin and her boyfriend decided to decorate their home with a bohemian theme!

So lets start with the "gypsy stereotype":

To me the image above is actually quite awesome... except that Caitlin does not live in a caravan! So, how can we adapt this concept to a stylish couple (and their breathtaking ocean view apt)?

A gypsy-inspired aesthetic is about a high-low approach, where creativity is more important than money, and travel, color, decor, fashion come together in an expanded interpretation of free expression.

10 ideas on how to translate a free spirit lifestyle into your environment:

1. An ikat headboard (or any other quirky print).

2. A hoop canopy hanging above the bed.

3. A hammock.

4. Exotic pendants, candle holders, colorful paper lanterns and a moroccan candle lantern.

5. An oversized moroccan mirror.

6. A persian rug (or a persian-inspired one)

7. Framed tapestry becomes your piece of art.

8. Colorful ratan chairs

9. Antique maps - a great way to reflect (and feed) your inner-gypsy!

10. Oh you need pillows. Like lots of them. Pillows of different sizes, pillows of different prints, pillows of different color ways, pillows of different textures.

* Last but not least, a neutral grey sectional might be just the perfect backdrop for all the colors and styles being clashed.

image credit: pinterest and glitter guide

A wonder woman's paradise

2012-11-14T10:34:00.000-08:00

This blog started with the purpose of showcasing wonder women out there that are a source of inspiration. So I couldn't be more thrilled to take a peek into the inside world of Stacy London.

Stacy London is a celebrity stylist, tv host, author, co-founder and stylist-in-chief of Style for Hire - talk about a wonder woman...

Hello fab wallpaper... (and fab shoes collection!)

I have been in love with her since I first started watching 'What not to Wear' back in 2009, and now I get to see her take on decor!

Mirrored desk, metallic wallpaper, pink art, colorful rugs, velvet upholstery and brass lighting fixtures - she is cool beyond words!

ps: these pink chairs are SO Babette!

Cheers to all the fashion and decor rules being broken! Cheers to the mismatched, kitschy, fun and fab!

Counting my blessings

2012-11-06T18:21:00.000-08:00

My dream project - 'Babette: be your own kind of beautiful' has finally launched!

The one and only Barbara Hulanicki made this beautiful art inspired by Babette:

Now we are working on a video to spread the brand's voice, shot by FinisterreFilms - just rad!

Yes my hair is pink! It went through a couple of trials, and now is finally pastel pink!

I took on the challenge to carefully plan the decor of my apt. Updates will be posted soon!

ps: I am totally decorating the kitchen around the new bar stools - another find from craigslist...

Ana from IHOD announced the pillows giveaway winner: Lindsey from Lost & Fawned.

The 2nd round of the Lucky Bitch Money Bootcamp is on! Denise Duffield Thomas is such a great coach and definitely the coolest chick ever!

Wedding plans are almost done: invitations, decor, colors, bridal party and even the gown! Next step: choosing the honeymoon destination - any advices?

Show your true colors

2012-10-30T10:53:00.000-07:00

I am committed to motivate people around me to live

boldly and colorfully.

Are you in?

Just click here.

The lovely Anna from In Honor of Design is hosting a giveaway!

Claiming my Moroccan Riad

2012-10-11T05:59:00.000-07:00

What if all your dreams could be fulfilled... what would be your choice? I just finished a coaching workshop with Denise Duffield-Thomas and I was amazed with the fact that I did not have the answer until recently.

I am a huge believer in the power of visualization (law of attraction, or the power of prayers - whatever you want to call it!). So I made a personal inquire... what would be my dream house?

Since I already manifested the man of my dreams, the apartment of my dreams, the dog of my dreams, the wedding gown of my dreams, the canopy & brass bed of my dreams... hey let me push this a little further and claim my Moroccan Riad style house!

Riad is a traditional Moroccan house or palace with an interior garden or courtyard. The word riad comes from the Arabian term for garden, "ryad".

I often noticed how easy is to fall into the trap of what is standard or expected, but what does your heart truly desires?

Image credit here

There is a country side of me

2012-09-23T14:56:00.000-07:00

It is a rainy day here here in Florida and I caught myself dreaming about a country getaway. After fulfilling my desire to live by the beach, I still have a side of me craving for a country retreat every once in a while!

A place to enjoy the simple things in life

Connect with nature

Grown my own food

Spend time with my love

Horseback ride

Sit by the porch with the family

Hammock naps

Enjoy a glass of wine outside

Dinner by candlelight

Walk barefoot

Paint like there is no tomorrow

Feed my inner child

Put to use my cowboy boots collection

And search for shooting stars

So here is what I'd pack for the country getaway:

Outfit 1: Free People dress and Old Gringo cowboy boots Outfit 2: Ralph Lauren riding trouser, Paul & Joe ikat knit cape and Rebecca Minkoff equestrian boots Outfit 3: Free People embroidery dress, Anthropologie cardigan and Free People crochet slouch boots Outfit 4: Floppy Hat, Free People dress and sandals

And what about the charming home?

1: Wallpaper 2: Knickknacks candlestick 3: Books 4: Throw 5: Hanging Chair 6: Custom bike 7: Vintage easel

Happy Fall!

Hello Bridezilla

2012-09-03T22:30:00.005-07:00

As you may have noticed, this blog went through a major makeover - I guess I feel pretty romantic and inspired lately... But the big focus on my mind right now is our upcoming wedding that is just 6 months away! Here is the overall concept:

I can't help but to have my mind 24/7 day dreaming about wedding decor and fashions. 'Bridezilla' joke apart, I am actually having a blast while planning our big day! I realized that we are creating much more than a wedding, we are creating a marriage {And what is a marriage but the ultimate teamwork?} so I completely and deeply trusted my fiancé as my team mate in this journey called life {Gosh I can be so cheesy sometimes!} And I trusted a team of talented and incredible people that will support us through the next 6 months, including our awesome families that don't even speak the same language, but will support us in our celebration beyond distance and borders {and yes, I feel extra cheesy today, blame the ring!}

The location is a whimsical little chapel in Rio de Janeiro and I am now designing save the date cards and bridal party invitations. I can't reveal much more about my wedding gown but the fact that... well, it will be a big one! And, one of my favorite parts, the bridesmaid dress will be a custom silk fabric designed by yours truly! The groom's attire is still under works {meaning I am still trying to ~~brainwash~~ convince him to wear a bow tie!} - and that would mean that little François would wear one too - too much cuteness!

What do you think?

image credit here

Counting my blessings

2012-08-24T05:32:00.002-07:00

A week I got engaged to the most amazing man in the world, and just a few days earlier we got ourselves the cutest dog!

We are a family now!

And you know what that means... wedding plans in Rio de Janeiro (so exciting!) just 6 months from now! The fun begins: invitations, cake, decor, gowns... and not to mention a super cute engagement photo sessions like this one below:

Yesterday I went gown shopping, but haven't found the one yet. My mom and sister are on the hunt to find the best vendors for the big day (they are the best, they could seriously rule the world), my fiancé is moving to Florida on October and I am so grateful to have this much love in my life right now...

photo credit 1 2 3 4 5

Once you go brass...

2012-08-13T19:32:00.003-07:00

Seriously this home is a brass heaven!

And yes, this is a brass kitchen island!

And yes, this is a custom designed brass staircase!

Oh, my dream library...

What happens when you combine brass elements + art deco chairs + funky wallpaper + organic sculptures + bold floor design + vintage chandelier + custom made staircase?

Another perfection from Kelly Wearstler!

More details:

photo credit here

Rock-a-bye baby

2012-08-07T17:48:00.000-07:00

You all know how I feel about the standard nursery rooms that are out there: just plain blah! That is why I am very particular when designing baby rooms (see it here and here)! But kudos to Tamara Kaye-Honey for going above and beyond to create a space that is fresh and playful, yet retains a timeless quality.

This space was designed for the 2012 Hampton Designer Showhouse and showcases her 'artful mix of old and new'.

See more of her fabulous work here.

Your library is your portrait

2012-08-01T05:24:00.003-07:00

If your library could talk... what would it say? What story would it tell?

"Books are a uniquely portable magic." - Stephen King

I spent months looking for the perfect bookshelf and took me even longer to organize it! I have a long collection of titles that range from illustration, branding, textile, graphics, product, and interior design to some random ones that I bought just because they have a cute cover!

Oh my dream is to one day have one of those 2 story libraries - with the super cute rolling ladder and everything! Oh a hidden entrance wouldn't be bad hu?

"Reading Is To the Mind What Exercise Is To the Body"

“If you have a garden and a library, you have everything you need.” - Marcus Tullius Cicero

I am so excited to read Holly Becker upcoming book Decorate Workshop: Design and Style Your Space in 8 Creative Steps

How is your library?

How do you keep your collection organized?

In gold we trust

2012-07-21T11:16:00.002-07:00

I believe color plays a major role in setting up a mood or state of mind. And I believe in gold. I actually believe in excessive use of gold! The color can be associated with confidence, creativity, perfection, the sun, energy, prosperity, luxury, winning, and power.

Gold accents are a statement, a conversational piece, and an undeniable symbol of power.

Gold Overdose WishList:

1. Sequin Cami Dress at Asos 2. The world's coolest typewriter at Fab 3. Gucci clutch at net-a-porter 4. Stella McCartney silk-blend lamé pants at net-a-porter 5. Diana Gold edition at lomography 6. Vertical Garden Lamp at Anthropologie 7. Gold zag tray at etsy 8. Gold intimates at Anthropologie 9. Lace-appliquéd silk-chiffon robe at net-a-porter 10. Christian Louboutin pumps at net-a-porter 11. Black & gold art kit at LoveisArt 12. Pony tail holder at asos 13. Monique Lhuillier Structured Sequin Dress at Bergdorf Goodman 14. Love candy metallic gold at MadebyGirl 15. Edible food coloring at deli garage 16. Handcuff bracelet at asos 17. Miu Miu Glitter Studded Leather Sneakers at Saks

Do you want to add gold in your life?

The most boring frame can be revamped with a 18k Carat Gold Leafing Pen (here).

Do you know that old piece with great bones but ugly color? Simply add a fresh coat of Gold Spray Paint (here).

Counting my blessings

2012-07-12T17:11:00.002-07:00

1. Working with the one and only Barbara Hulanicki for the past month (and a Wonder Woman interview is on the works!)

2. A fun and busy weekend ahead of me reading all my new books

3. Scoring my awesome swan table

4. Full Moon paddle board with friends

5. Watching an amazing european movie The Intouchables (a must watch!)

6. Sneak peek at my latest project, Babette

7. The news that my sister, brother and bff are all coming to visit me in the next few weeks

8. And... last but no least, life by the beach that I adore so very much...

Have you counted your blessings today?

Yay summer

2012-07-02T14:19:00.003-07:00

Oh beach time is here and I couldn't be happier!

...wearing a bikini all day long

...riding a bike to the beach

...stand up paddle board with friends

...reading a book by the water

I just returned from Rio de Janeiro and I am now planning short trips to Key West, Seattle, Naples and Los Angeles! So here is my Summer Fun wish list:

1. Horchow Rainbow Stripe beach towel 2. Havaianas Missoni Rachel 3. Panama Jack creme beach cruiser 4. Asos Stripe Swimsuit 5. Tory Burch audrey tote 6. Victoria's Secret Knit Caftan Dress 7. Dior Cats Eye sunglasses 8. J.Crew two-tone straw hat

What are your plans for this summer?

image source

Lazy Sunday

2012-06-24T11:59:00.005-07:00

First Sunday of Summer and my plans to get a fabulous tan were ruined. It is actually pouring rain - a great excuse that I used to lay in bed for extra hours!

Since my beach plans are out of the question, I will use this rainy day to catch up with all the books I have been dying to read (I am half way through the amazing 'From A to Biba: The Autobiography of Barbara Hulanicki')...

Visit my blog friends...

Wear my pjs all day long...

Watch Avenida Brasil, the latest brazilian soap opera.

Unpack from my recent trip to Brazil...

And rock my rain boots! (is there anything better than puddle-jumping?)

Beijos from a rainy Florida!

Image credit 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

LINKS À LA MODE! And Counting my blessings

2012-06-14T20:00:00.002-07:00

1. Flying last night from Miami and waking up to a beautiful Rio de Janeiro

2. Witnessing my dad blowing out his 80 year old birthday candles

3. Receiving a warm welcome for my awesome childhood friends

4. Having breakfast with the girl right under the Jesus statue at Parque Lage

5. Cuddling with Fanny (isn't she the cutest?)

6. And last but not least, LINKS À LA MODE featured my Sail away with me post - so honored! These are other selected blogs:

A Casa Da Va: Sail Away With Me
Chocolate Sarcasm: In Their Closet – Lauren
Dress Code: High Fashion: The Four Shades of Yellow SS12
Fashionable in Montreal: Dressing For Me
Flounces and Slashes: DIY Louis Vuitton Gold Collar
Haute Americana: Made In America – Resort Wear 2013
Hunting in Heels: The History of Polka Dots
Kate B McLeod: Riders By Lee SS12
Kinks Are The New Pink: 5 Ways To Jazz Up Your Natural Hair for Summer
Life of a Recessionista: Beauty Purchases I Regret
LoveLee: Beauty Trend Alert – 4 Summer Lip Shades
My Vintage Curves: My Vintage Lifestyle
Primped & Primed: Obsession – Studded Collars
SheenaFab: How To Wear The Masculine Chic Trend
Style & Starbucks: Summer/Autumn Capsule Wardrobe
Style In The Middle: Transform Your Maxi
The Chic Muse: Time For Tea
WWelcome To My Closet: Denim Shorts – Drab To Fab
Wish Upon A Smile: Will You Come Again And Join Me This Time?
Zarna’s Runway: Flouncy

Sail away with me

2012-06-10T05:08:00.001-07:00

Living by the beach and felling inspired by my recent trip to Key West and a cruise to the Bahamas (yep, life is good!) I couldn't help but to be influenced by a nautical-inspired vibe for my next textile collection.

The nautical trend is a classic and it is about summer fun! Just like last year, this trends continue to set sail in style with clothing, accessories and home decor.

It can be achieved by colorblocking using shades of blue with pops of vibrant red and brass/ gold touches and stripes, of course!

"Every summer, there's an influx of nautical-inspired fashion, and this year is no different. But you don't have to be beach-bound to dive into this timeless trend. Sailor stripes always look easy-breezy, and a sharp blue blazer adds a touch of class. Don't go overboard, though, or you'll risk looking like Popeye!" - Rebecca Silverstein

Ready..set…SAIL!

credit here and here

Celebrating Love

2012-05-29T06:18:00.002-07:00

This past Saturday I had the honor to witness one of my best friends (as well as former co-worker, english teacher and angel!) to get married in the most gorgeous CA setting.

The wedding's theme: the 20s! The location: the Acacia Mansion in Ojai, CA! Great finds at vintage shops in Ventura, CA: a white fur jacket and white gloves that I paired with my mom's Valentino fashion jewelry and a gold dress. The bride had the most beautiful gown and she designed her own fabulous head piece!

I can't fully disclosure all the details because the whole event will soon have an official feature at a wedding blog, but here are bits of it... Given that it was the marriage between 2 designers you can't expect nothing but magic, glam and attention to details.

Also it was a great excuse for me to visit California, see my former co-workers, be with my boyfriend for 3 whole days and spent time with his family. Not to mention... vintage hunting, hiking and yummy healthy food. I am happy to be back home in FL but I miss CA already!

How was your Memorial weekend?

Lucite treasures

2012-05-21T20:59:00.002-07:00

Now the lucite trend goes beyond your decor and gets into your closet! And is there anything more awesome than this clutch?

Yes, there is!!! This nursery:

I want these...

...and those!

Lucite finds:

1. Marc Jacobs Transparent Pump at La Garçonne 2. Charlotte Oympia Pandora Plexiglas clutch at net-a-porter 3. Bleu Nature Nilleq Stool at Barneys New York 4. Tilly Maison Lucite Tray at Etsy

Image Source 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

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