Art a la Rue

AALR | facelift time

2015-01-14T10:10:00.000-08:00

AALR is getting a little makeover so posts will be coming...

xoxo

ART | sffas young collectors

2014-10-24T15:06:00.001-07:00

October 24, 2014

4-7pm at Forst Mason Center, San Francisco

rsvp rsvp@ehss.org

One of the things I love most about the San Francisco Fall Antiques Show is that collectors from all over the world feature only their best. Everything is perfectly curated and for the most part you are witness to pieces that you may not see otherwise. This year however, I am particularly excited to attend the 'Young Collectors Night'- A concept on introducing people into collecting by showcasing affordable items.

They will have live music, cocktails and tours of the show. It's great for everyone but as a resident of San Francisco, and living amongst this young new wealth- I would love to see them get more involved and become more educated. I know many find "antiques" to be a dated thing and often intimidating but it's far from that. You can mix pieces and art it into your contemporary lifestyle while still building something that appreciates in value.

I'm excited to see what they have and for those who can't make tonight's event - they will be opened tomorrow.

warning: none of the below would be for the light spender. I will update us on my favorite finds this evening.

{Mallet Antiques is always one of my favorites from the show}

{Ambianic may be my new favorite this year. Love this mid century credenza}

{Carlton Hobbs is known for their level of rarities}

{ I have said it before...I love vintage b & w photography. Peter Fetterman Gallery}

XO,

STYLE | in case you missed this

2014-09-29T22:51:00.000-07:00

{vintage LV}

In case you are in pursuit of the next best thing and have a little extra money for splurging- I have just the thing.

Christie's is holding an auction which is compromised of every girl's fantasy or shall I say wish-list. Birkins, Hermes, Chanel, LV's...the list goes on. Unfortunately, you only have about a day left to bid but well worth it since prices for these leather goods are typically off the charts expensive. So when I say it's a deal- I mean, it's a deal. The most appealing part is you can do it online and not have to physically wave your little paddle around to snag these sought-after items. And not to misinterpret me...you're still bidding, but without the fussy stuff.

Although difficult to narrow down, here are my favorite picks inspired by Fall season.
Click here for the sale.

xo,

STYLE | crochet top

2014-09-16T10:44:00.000-07:00

One of my absolute favorites things to do is to step out of San Francisco and have a quiet day in Mill Valley. I love being surrounded by Redwoods and away from all the city noise.

I had not planned on posting this outfit but my mom insisted- and for a first-timer how good was she at taking my pictures?! I love wearing statement tops because the rest always falls into place. And lately all I want to do is wear jeans- so fun tops is what I've been shopping for lately. I picked up the robin's egg blue with the shoes and accessories and I think the subtly of it all made it feminine and not overdone. This crochet piece is one of my favorites right now.

top: trafaluc

jeans: jbrand

shoes: oldie, similar here

turquoise jewelry: gifted

XO,

STYLE | the find

2014-09-09T11:24:00.001-07:00

Photo credit: CR Fashion Book, Photography by: Pierre Debusschere

all photo credit via http://www.crfashionbook.com

Obsessed. I have been following the infamous Carine Roitfeld as she continuously surpasses the bars she sets herself. In her latest issue, no. 5, of CR Fashion Book, she features Beyonce in the most artistic version of herself and the whole shoot deserves some serious praising.

I love imagery that not only illustrates fashion to drool over, yet more-so when it's interpreted as a piece of artwork. It combines the two together to do just that and really sets the magazine/book apart from anything I've seen. Yes, even Vogue. Each photo was better than the last and I can honestly imagine, and predict, these hanging at some future exhibition down the road much like Mario Testino's are now.

If you don't know about CR Fashion Book- check them out. The best way I can describe it is in their words:

"a celebration of fashion and creativity, irreverent in spirit and timeless in style a platform for groundbreaking styling, photography, and features from the most celebrated creators in fashion and art, as well as a new guard of rising talent a place to discover intriguing people and inspiring imagery, constructed around each issue’s specific theme an innovative format that combines the collectible aspect of a book with the energy of a carefully curated fashion magazine..." -CR

{This is probably my favorite from the shoot}

Photo credit: CR Fashion Book, Photography by: Pierre Debusschere

{The Queen B}

Photo credit: CR Fashion Book, Photography by: Pierre Debusschere

XO,

STYLE | normcore fashion?

2014-08-29T16:31:00.000-07:00

{my perfect idea of normcore fashion- keeping it simple but flattering}

Unpretentious, average looking - the plain the better - pedestrian street crossings becomes the catwalk. Apparently. At least that's what Vogue told me about Normcore fashion.

A trending term that landed on the scene this year but one I have been very confused about. How is this a "new" trend. Haven't I been sporting this, or all of us, should I say since circa 1984. At first I thought it was a ruse. A joke on tourists who roam the streets with oversized jeans, baggy sweaters, sneakers and fanny packs. Aren't these articles the staple of "Oh hey I'm just visiting and going to take a hundred pictures in the middle of the street even though you're trying to drive"? It's a little Zoolander isn't it? Or does it simply mean we've been ahead of the trend. When I say "we" I mean the States. This style has has been prevalent here for decades. Just live in San Francisco. This is the norm! (pun intended).

I don't know. I just think with fashion it circles back over and over until we run out of ideas and now we're back to mom jeans and big sweaters. And I know this sounds cynical, but I'm all over it. In fact, I know a lot of people who would be bursting with joy if they found out they can freely stroll the streets in sweatpants and be deemed as 'fashion-forward'. Especially those who already do it! And I for one love dressing up, but I'm also just as happy to live in comfortable clothing. Though, maybe not sweatpants.

SO! If someone is telling me to dress it down and not care about labels!? Hey, I'm in. I'm just stoked I'll be considered a "high-end pedestrian".

How do you feel about Normcore fashion?

{keep the jewelry to a minimum - instead work with accents that pop on your lips and nails}

1. oversized sweater : topshop

2. high-top sneakers: vince

3. cross-body bag: rag & bone

4. jeans: joe's jeans

5. nail polish: butter london

6. lips: mac 'we're back'

7. sunnies: nasty gal

Xo,

STYLE | fun ways to layer black

2014-08-27T17:37:00.003-07:00

A lot of black. A little edge. A little mess makes for a perfect background.

Lately, I've had this very laissez faire attitude towards picking my outfits- so wearing black sits very well with me. It feels a lot like 'paint by numbers'. It never fails me especially when I am having a 'what the hell is going on with my hair and make-up' kind-of-day. Not to say there is no thought behind the final look- but even with little effort, you can't really go wrong with it.

Black.always.makes.you.look.good.

In fact, my take is this- go nuts with it! A stark color deserves some good layering. l love mixing different textures, leather and accents when I am going for a little more sass. And of course when you have shoes like these....a little attitude doesn't hurt.

{hard to see in images but the pants have a floral pattern with texture to them}

leather jacket: oldie - similar here

pants; shirt : zara

shoes: bcbg

sunglasses: ray bans

jewelry: tiffany & co. and dogeared

lips: mac 'good to be bad'

XO,

STYLE | how to wear pearls

2014-08-22T13:31:00.002-07:00

Sure, Audrey Hepburn rocks them in the classiest way imaginable, but as much as I would love to squeeze into a fitted black dress everyday for the sake of pearls- It's just not going to happen.

However, my thoughts are this....pearls are always classy and dress you up no matter what the attire is. With a busy schedule, I don't always have time to carefully curate an overly thought-out outfit. But there is a contrast of wearing pearls that I especially love when the rest of me is going for basics. It's keeping the look feminine- don't you agree?

Now go enjoy your Friday!

It's been requested to list my wardrobe, so here you are!

Blazer: Zara

T-shirt: Vince

Pearls: gifted

Jeans: Sisley

Shoes: Halogen

Sunglasses: Ray Ban

Oversized Bag: MK

pc: Gloria Suarez

XO,

STYLE | green pants

2014-08-20T15:34:00.003-07:00

I am obsessed with these emerald green trousers since it's a color I wear well and is easily styled in different ways. They're fresh, fun and transitional. On this occasion, I chose to pair them with a classic black blazer- since it's the midpoint to a perfectly polished look that takes me from work to dinner. It's chic and not so serious.

In previous looks I have worn them with a white buttoned down, nude pumps and a bold orange necklace- which achieves an entirely different look. I may have to post a repeat of that soon.

I especially loved the juxtaposition of shooting in nature to mirror the color of my trousers. It's so effortless.

XO,

LIFESTYLE | travel

2014-08-14T12:03:00.000-07:00

Crazy morning! I am thrilled to say I will be going to San Diego this weekend to celebrate my brother and sister's birthday this weekend. And of course as usual last minute.

But traveling, no matter how short the flight, is always stressful. And if you're anything like me- I hate being the person that lugs around a big carry-on only to find out I can't even lift it and end up standing in the aisle like a deer in headlights until someone offers their help. gasp...

SO! I always choose to travel light and the most successful way of doing this- is by creating a list. I note my essentials and pre-pick every outfit for each day I am away. A must-do! It's definitely a challenge committing to an outfit but avoids overpacking.

Now if I can only learn to commit to an outfit at home versus the usual five wardrobe changes - I would be set....

{Very into crochet- beach ready perfect}

Xo,

STYLE | polka dots

2014-08-12T11:50:00.002-07:00

Today's post is summer inspired. Suffice it to say polka dots are a timeless pattern and one of my favorites. I love its versatility hence why I mix and match this often. It's dressy when I pair it with black trousers or a black pencil skirt, but looks so chic even when I downplay it with jean shorts.

I'm so all over chunky sandals right now which I think tied the whole look together. Add some chunky accessories, a bold lip and you're done!

Thanks for reading...

XO,

ART | nwblk

2014-08-06T14:50:00.001-07:00

{Graffiti wall as you pull up}

I cannot process that we are now in August! Anyhow busy as ever- but was inspired by one of my favorite designers, Steven Miller, during our meeting yesterday at his showroom, The Nwblk.

How I've never been here before? I do not know. But I was impressed. My brain pretty much functions as such : From utterly obsessed to uninterested. And this was for sure...obsession. Picture a grand scale industrial warehouse comprised of two floors with carefully curated furniture, lighting, art and a design studio.

Everything was minimal but well thought out. I would say my two favorite picks would be the graffiti wall that greets you as you're pulling in and the phonetic wall as you enter. I admit I did have a bit of a challenge reading it- but was so creatively done! Nwblk I couldn't agree with you more! They just rock the design world. They are "utterly" perfect.

Can you read it?

{Yaffe Mays Cradle Chair - Nwblk}

{This BBC Chair is not only cozy but swivels! -Nwblk}

{Can you deal with this origami made of copper

XO,

STYLE | summer make-up

2014-07-24T14:52:00.001-07:00

It is my humble opinion that unless you work at a cosmetic boutique, make-up should be applied sparingly during the day. The evening is another occassion.

This simple look {which I love using during the summer} is achieved in 4 steps:
For my eyes I use Indianwood by Mac. Underneath my eyebrows I use Benefit's soft highlighter - which helps to open up your eyes more. For my cheeks I use Amour by Nars and on my lips is Snob by Mac. I use no foundation or concealer for this look since I love giving my skin a break. Not to say I don't use it... but for days when I am not in meetings with clients and running simple errands I just don't do it. It keeps my skin healthy and makes up for days when I do apply heavily.

Big tip: Always moisturize.

I hate using cliché phrases such as 'less is more'.... but oftentimes it's true.

XO,

STYLE | sky blue

2014-07-23T15:27:00.000-07:00

When you're as addicted to dark colors as I am, you never give punchy colors any thought. However on recent shopping sprees, I have been trying to make a conscious effort to apply more color to my daily wardrobe. It has proved to be a bit challenging, but a color trend I am spotting everywhere and actually appeals to me- is this sky blue.

I think Valentino did this particularly well. When I walked into their San Francisco store (shot here), their collection felt elegant and sophisticated. Nothing was overstated and I loved their patterns for this upcoming season.

I can see a gorgeous interior space designed around these tones.

XO,

LIFESTYLE | thank you notes

2014-07-22T09:02:00.000-07:00

I am all over a good Paperless Post card - but...there's something so personal about writing 'thank you' notes to friends, family and clients. It shows they were deserving of your time in a more intimate way.

Label me traditional, but it's part of a routine I really enjoy doing.

So the next time you get invited to a dinner party, think twice before sending a quick email. Instead keep thank you cards handy and send them off! Your personal touch won't go unnoticed.

XO,

LIFESTYLE | simple things

2014-07-18T11:02:00.001-07:00

{art a la rue image}

I often think about how many forms of art exist, but it's a single moment such as this, that reminds me that we are always immersed in it. Rarely do we take the time to stop and take in all the natural beauty that surrounds us.

I captured this moment while I was on an airplane...

Breathtaking.

XO,

STYLE | accoutrements

2014-07-05T15:30:00.002-07:00

The best way to unwind after a long week of work? Going to the park. It's the easiest thing to accomplish with zero effort to get yourself dressed for it. All you need are your basics- a book, your ipod/music, sunblock and yourself. Of course a little white wine doesn't hurt, but a couple of hours of sunshine will guarantee to bring out your happy hormones.

Nature is always the best remedy. What are your favorite 'take to the park' items?

XO,

STYLE | a simpler time

2014-07-02T15:53:00.000-07:00

Forget carrying around a big camera and wearing a great outfit to create the "perfect" post.

Sometimes life is so much better when you unexpectedly find yourself nestled amongst trees while living out your day in jeans and a knitted sweater- only to be caught in a pure moment.

It makes me feel like one of my favorites songs by Van Morrison "Into the Mystic". I love simple things.

{" I wana rock your gypsy soul"}

XO,

DESIGN | polished entryways

2014-07-01T22:46:00.000-07:00

{Kelly Wearstler}

Most would believe the statement room is always the family room or dining room, where you typically entertain... Still, I like to think of myself as a first impression kind-of-a-gal. Which is why I consider the same for your home. Ergo, today's post is dedicated to entryways.

Oftentimes uncelebrated, entryways (aka foyer, just easier to pronounce) is arguably one of the most important spaces. It's where you first greet your guests and creates the moment that will transition over to the rest of your home. It should equally possess the same wow-factor as much as the next room since that will set the tone.

It could potentially be the conversation starter.

Selected, are a few entryways which I found inspiring and perfectly polished.

{One of my favorites- Renea Abbott}

{I love the magenta console}

{Brad Floyd}

Thank you for reading!

XO,

STYLE | midnight flower

2014-06-29T16:32:00.000-07:00

It took me a while to convince myself to buy florals (in general) since it's been so mainstream for some time now. So when I walked past these pants, I was a bit hesitant because a). wasn't sure I would love them and b). thought they would be too bold and "look at me" pants. However, in the words of my younger sister, "YES you have to buy them!"

I'm so happy I did because they're different than what I normally wear and were such a hit.

I loved this particular print because it combines so well with everything. The navy blue let's you mix it up as I did - A white crisp top, army green jacket and nude pumps which tone everything down.
Next time, I'll go for a denim top and flats for a fun casual look.

XO,

LIFESTYLE | brushes

2014-06-27T09:42:00.000-07:00

Start your week off fresh with this simple tip many of us forget: Clean your make-up brushes!

I had a girlfriend mention that she's gone a couple months without cleaning them and I cringed. Over time, your make-up brushes develop oil, dirt, bacteria and rubbing that on your face would be the equivalent of using a mop to apply your make-up. Right!? Cleaning your brushes also keeps your make-up from looking muddy.

The best part is you don't have to spend money on expensive make-up cleaners...

How to:
-In a jar, add Johnson's Baby Shampoo. It has to be a gentle shampoo so as not to ruin your brushes.
-Fill up the jar half way with warm water (remember, once you add the brushes the water rises).
-Place the brushes facing down, inside the jar.
-Wait about 1-2 hours while they really soak up.
-Take them out and facing down, run them under warm water until you see the water clear.
-Lay them out to dry and voila!

I find it best to do in the evenings, so that they dry overnight and are ready to use in the morning. Do this at least every 2 weeks.

Enjoy! Thank you for reading.

XO,

ART | alexa meade

2014-06-25T22:30:00.000-07:00

{Alexa Meade painting her "self portrait"}

My truly Mr. B, is obsessed with YouTube channel "Vsauce" and was blown away with what he saw, that he immediately sent it to me. My thoughts were.....

HOW!? How can someone possibly have enough talent to create this in 3 dimensional form you ask? People. That's how! Artist Alexa Meade completely blew my mind this week. It's arresting, powerful and supersedes anything we imagine as "original". In her words, your body is her canvas. The images need no further explanation.

What do you think? I'm sure you'll have the same reaction.
Thanks for reading! Xo

{Alexa painting her subject to then photograph}

{I love this one!}

{surreal}

XO,

LIFESTYLE | simple things

2014-06-23T22:20:00.000-07:00

{hiking Stinson Beach during holiday break- sometimes we take the little things for granted}

I have been hit with the flu for the past 4 days which has caused some severe cabin fever. So much so, that I feel I should begin my Monday with the "Welcome Back Kotter" theme song.

But, the nice thing about being home is it allows for some "me-time" and gave me time to write on my blog.

Thank my gods for Mr B. who was great in nursing me back to health. You realize how much you miss out on!

Thank you for reading.

{conveniently...reading and ice cream was a must in my recovery}

{online shopping really is the best when you're sick}

{receiving a beautiful gift from my m.i.l.}

XO,

STYLE | noir

2014-06-20T21:25:00.000-07:00

With shorter days and colder mornings, it becomes increasingly difficult to crawl out of my warm bed, despite Mr. B's attempt at bribing me with coffee. So I find that because I use up my getting-ready time, I'm forced to pull an outfit together quicker than my normal routine. Which is why I usually resort to black.

Noir makes up ninety percent of my closet, and despite its functional and versatile ways of making me look composed, it becomes challenging at times to get creative with it. But who knew my cold environment (relatively speaking of course) would force me to take to layers and therefore, inspired this awesome five piece "man suit".

XO,

STYLE | lbd

2014-06-18T22:25:00.000-07:00

Yes we've all seen these shoes everywhere, but I'm sure like most of you, I can't get enough of them. They have so sexy and re-invent my little black dress by Geren Ford.

It's the extra pizazz I need to take my look from ordinary to extraordinary.... and gives it that right amount of edge I need.

Thank you for reading!

XO,