Daily Decorum

It's been a while...

2013-09-02T12:52:00.001-04:00

It really has been a while... almost a year! Getting myself back on track, and I'll be back with more!

Summer Getaways: San Luis Obispo

2012-09-11T18:27:00.001-04:00

Thinking of the fun in San Luis Obispo while trying to get rid of this horrid flu. It was surprisingly chilly there in July... talking to the locals, the weather warms up closer to winter.

Morro Bay Rock.

The view from Elfin Forest Preserve.

Hearst Castle.

Our hike, more like a walk, around Elfin Forest Preserve.

Bubble gum alley in Downtown San Luis Obispo. It smells like Bubbalicious :)

(Images property of Daily Decorum)

Summer Getaways: Chicago

2012-09-07T15:45:00.001-04:00

Now that summer is winding down... I love summer in NYC! Not the heat and the humidity, but half day Fridays, and everyone going out of town leaving a less crowded city, lots of free events, etc. I took advantage this summer, went on several little vacations, right now I'm dreaming of the beautiful weather and delicious food we had in Chicago =)

Back to full day Fridays, but at least it's the weekend!

Elle Decor - Favorite Rooms of 2011

2012-06-20T10:41:00.002-04:00

I know it's well into 2012, but I was clicking through Elle Decor's Favorite Rooms of 2011, and found a few I loved...

Keri Russell's kitchen/ breakfast area in her Brooklyn home.

Lynn Nesbit's library.

Claiborne Swanson Frank's study.

Courtney Cox's living room.

All very different from each other...

(Images via elledecor.com)

Chanel - Little Black Jacket

2012-06-18T14:12:00.000-04:00

I went to see the Chanel - Little Black Jacket exhibit last Wednesday, ended up loving it and went again on Friday. What was amazing was how one jacket could look so different on the 100+ celebrities. Each individual was styled according to their personality and unique traits, and even a few guys made the cut! Loved Joshua Jackson's photo... the last person you would expect to be on the wall. My personal favorites: Vanessa Paradis, Sofia Coppola, and Charlotte Casiraghi. Oh yeah, the adorable little girl with the Tiny Black Jacket :)

18 Wooster Street. Soho.

Exhibition inspired by Karl Lagerfeld's Little Black Jacket book project.

Photos of the Exhibit.

It was only in New York for a week, hopefully it'll visit a city near you so you can see the iconic LBJ on modern day celebrities.

(Images property of Decorum Lifestyle)

Recent Purchase: DL 1961 Denim

2012-05-30T12:21:00.001-04:00

I can't wait to wear my new DL 1961 Angel Skinny jeans in Fizz! Now if it will only stop raining.......

For other options - I also love the AG Pin Dot Skinny Jeans. (bloomingdales.com)

And the Current/ Elliott Polka Dot Skinny Jeans. (net-a-porter.com) On sale!

Love love love :)

I heart - Red/Orange!

2012-05-08T12:26:00.002-04:00

I'm really loving this red/orange color at the moment. Ever since I saw this chic woman in Paris last spring wearing a trench coat in the same color way, I was obsessed with finding the perfect one.

10 Crosby Derek Lam - Belted Trench. Love it!

OPI - Red Lights Ahead... Where? Not as orangey, but still a great summer red with a hint of orange.

Rag & Bone Jean Shorts - Denim Cut off in Bright Orange.

Marc by Marc Jacobs - Lola Crop in Coral.

Pippa - Scales Dress.

Color for All

2012-05-04T15:41:00.000-04:00

I love how the whole color trend is translating into men's fashion, especially all the bright denim and shorts. Oh and shoes! I think guys that can pull it off look great.

Can't wait for warmer weather!

(Images property of Decorum Lifestyle)

Warby Parker - A New Concept in Eyewear

2012-05-01T12:58:00.001-04:00

I found out about Warby Parker a couple of months ago when I was asked to try on a few pairs for a blogger. I think it's a brilliant concept - choose 5 frames online, they'll mail it to you 100% free of charge, return the frames, and order the one you like online and they'll custom cut your prescription. The best part is, you buy a pair, Warby Parker will provide a pair for someone in need.

Love the packaging.

Five frames.

Vintage inspired frames in various colors and shapes for $95.00 with your prescription.

(Images property of Decorum Lifestyle)

I heart - DOMINO Magazine!!

2012-04-30T13:50:00.000-04:00

I am so excited! I JUST found out one of my favorite home decor magazine, Domino, is being resurrected! I was so incredibly sad when the economy spiraled downhill and Domino was cut. I was a subscriber for years, and so happy I saved my favorite issues. I'm a little behind with this news, but a special edition issue hit the stands on April 17th, with the next issue sometime in the fall. I will make sure to pick up my issue tonight!

Thank you for bringing Domino back! I hope you're here to stay :)

(image via washingtonpost.com)

Denim Jackets

2012-04-04T10:38:00.001-04:00

I've been searching high and low for the perfect little denim jacket for someone, and actually came across quite a few options. Perfect to throw on over your spring dress and carry you through early fall... I think if you're looking to pair it only with dresses, a fitted, cropped (or shorter) version would work best.

Rag & Bone - Jean Jacket in Perfect Wash

Hudson - Catalina Signature Denim Jacket. This one comes in fun colors as well.

J. Crew - Nolita Jacket in Great Lakes Wash

J Brand - Slim Fitted Denim Jacket. This one's not as short, I like the slim fit, cute paired with all fancy pants rage going on.

(Images via bloomingdales.com and jcrew.com)

Hello Spring!

2012-03-23T16:53:00.000-04:00

Time to switch out my wardrobe! It's been so nice strolling through the different neighborhoods, everyone out and about... Sun setting later each day. I love that there are flowers just about everywhere, and thankful I don't have to suffer through allergies.

Washington Square Park.

Lower East Side somewhere. These flowers smelled wonderful :)

Port Washington.

Simple flowers to add color to the apartment.

(Images property of Decorum Lifestyle)

Looking Back: Favorite Meal of 2011

2012-02-29T20:43:00.000-05:00

I love to eat. If there was such a thing, eating, and eating lots of delicious food, would be one of my favorite hobbies. I don't discriminate, I'll try just about anything. One of my most memorable meals in 2011 was at Morimoto in Napa Valley, CA. Wow, from the beautifully designed restaurant, excellent service, to the most visually appealing and delicious meal I had last year, I was thoroughly impressed. Why am I posting this now at the end of February 2012? I keep thinking about it...

If you have a chance to go to any of Morimoto's restaurants, I would highly recommend the omakase (chef's tasting). It is pricey, but well worth it.

(Images property of Daily Decorum)

Oscar Fashion Favorites 2012

2012-02-26T22:59:00.000-05:00

As always, so many beautiful people strolling the red carpet, and they didn't disappoint. My favorite looks from this year's Academy Awards.

Lovely dress and color on Cameron Diaz.

My favorite look of the night, worn by Michelle Williams.

Emma Stone - I'm kind of loving the giant bow on the side.

I love this color Penelope Cruz is wearing.

Tina Fey cleaned up very nicely, I always picture her as Liz Lemon.

Kristen Wiig, although I wish her nails weren't so dark, a little distracting.

Until next year!

(Images via movies.yahoo.com)

Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow!

2012-02-09T10:41:00.000-05:00

Last winter was legen... wait for it... dary! (I heart HIMYM!!). My first real winter, and it was a great one. So much snow! Freezing, but manageable with my cozy new winter wardrobe, and did I mention, so much snow!!! Not this winter... I got really excited because the weather forecast called for snow showers, but it wasn't cold enough to stay. I hope NYC will see a blanket of fresh white snow this Saturday!

From a few weeks back. Love the cross country skier in Central Park! She passed by at the perfect moment.

Wishing for a snow day...

(Images property of Daily Decorum)

Crazy for Color?

2012-02-07T19:49:00.000-05:00

I know the fashion world is loving trends like pleated skirts, color blocked outfits, fancy pants, but the one thing I'm not totally embracing is the marketing and push for the whole crazy for bright neon colors thing. I'm the type that likes a certain style, and will stick with it, adopting only bits and pieces of current trends. My royal blue and mustard yellow denim from last summer? Still LOVE!! But always paired with neutrals. Spring 2012 is filled with even more color options... But I think I'm done with my colored denim purchase =) One bright color at a time is enough for me. Here's what I mean about the push for neon brights:

Bergdorf Goodman window displays. Adorable outfits, especially the Miu Miu one.

Bloomingdales mannequins.

Love the handle on this tote bag though, just a splash of color :)

(Images property of Daily Decorum)

Designer Feature: Love Tatum

2012-02-04T19:26:00.001-05:00

I went over to Henri Bendel on Fifth Ave. to visit Tatum Lenahan of Love Tatum, and to see her new collection a couple of weeks ago. So many beautiful pieces! I wanted one of each, but I was a good girl. I love her passion as a jewelry designer, and dedication to what she does. It's no wonder Love Tatum is doing so well! It really shows in her hard work. Congratulations on being picked up by Henri Bendel!

Tatum Lenahan.

Her collection.

Love love love all the rings and cuffs!

My personal favorite and purchase. Excuse the chubby hand :) Apopylite Crystal 24K electro-formed ring (I think I have that right...)

(Images property of Daily Decorum)

Current Obsession - Stripes

2011-12-22T22:16:00.001-05:00

Actually, it's not a current obsession, more like an ongoing obsession. A friend pointed out a few years ago... you wear a lot of tops with horizontal stripes. Years later... it still holds true. Right now, I'm loving these beauties.

Equipment Collarless Slim Signature Stripe Shirt - One of my favorite tops to wear right now... although sadly I don't have this one. Love the colors!

Alice + Olivia Caroline Stripe Tunic - tunics are always great to throw on over jeans (or skinny black pants for work!).

Aqua Cashmere Roll Tab Sleeve Sweater - so warm and cute with the roll tab.

The Equipment one I do love.... :)

(Photos from bloomingdales.com)

Open House New York - TWA Flight Center

2011-10-26T11:49:00.000-04:00

I trekked my way out to JFK to check out the TWA Flight Center designed by Eero Saarinen for my second OHNY adventure. I was so excited for a chance to go inside because I did a commercial design project (a children's hospital) in design school with Eero Saarinen as my inspiration architect, and the entire lobby/ playground/ walkways with the TWA Flight Center in mind. Although the architectural designs were started in the 1950's and finished in the 60's, it still feels current and modern. His furniture designs - the ever popular Tulip Chair, Tulip Tables, even the Womb chair, still very current and specified in so many new designs. I had a great time exploring the space.

I would feel like such a jet setter walking through this to get to my flight.

Waiting area

Information desk

Soaring qualities of the design

Definitely in need of renovation... but can you imagine how great it could be?

Nice little nook to hang out

"The shapes were deliberately chosen in order to emphasize an upward-soaring quality of line." - Eero Saarinen.

Can you picture the terminal it it's heyday? Jackie O fashionistas walking around in their fabulous outfits and oversized sunglasses...

(Images property of Daily Decorum)

Open House New York - Park Avenue Christian Church

2011-10-25T11:39:00.000-04:00

I was so excited when I opened my copy of Timeout New York and saw a pull out of Open House New York 2011. Basically, for two days last weekend, the general public was granted access to 84 different sites that depicts New York's distinctive architecture, engineering, design, planning, and preservation. My first stop: Park Avenue Christian Church - since it was only a few blocks away.

This particular location caught my attention because it was inspired by one of my favorite sights in Paris, France - the Saint Chapelle. I wrote about it briefly here.

The church was built in 1909 - designed with Tiffany stained glass windows, a buttress supported structure, and a 56 rank organ.

If I knew someone getting married in New York, I would nudge them this direction :) It's such a beautiful church, and a vintage-y themed wedding would pair perfectly!

(Images property of Daily Decorum)

Manic Monday and a Great Fall Weekend

2011-10-24T15:16:00.000-04:00

I tried a few new restaurants this weekend, but most notably Peel and Pies N Thighs.

Peels - in Noho. I will definitely go back and try their build a biscuit for brunch. Love the interior and ambiance, delicious fried potato dumplings! (Image via peelsnyc.com)

Pies N Thighs - in Williamsburg. The best fried chicken I've had in a long time, and their biscuits were out of this world! Crunchy on the outside, soft and flaky on the inside. (Image via yelp.com)

It's just another Manic Monday ~ oh ooo... Happy Monday!

Spare Rooms

2011-10-07T12:47:00.000-04:00

It's a luxury to have a spare room in NYC... I've come to realize, our second room is somewhat of a wasted space. Which is horrible right? Especially since space is so precious. So far, it's only been used by our guests, and my occasional freelance design work. After an entire year here, it looks exactly the same, other than my bookcase purchase. Therefore, I decided to narrow down my options and start purchasing, piece by piece to put together a fabulous room I love to be in.

I've been in search of a desk for a while now. I have a small table that fits my iMac and loose papers, and that's about it. When I work on plans, they are pretty much on the floor with me hunching over from my chair to look at drawings. A desk will be my first purchase - and I narrowed down my choices...

Parsons Metal Wrapped Desk - West Elm. Iconic design, but very unique hand applied metal cladding.

Parsons Mirror Desk - West Elm. Same iconic design, but mirrored. Nice reflective quality that'll be great for a dark room, but mirrored furniture has been done so many times. Maybe because I worked on so many designs with mirrored furniture, maybe I'm tired of it? It's a love/hate (not so strong) relationship.

I have my eye on a piece... I don't have any photos. I can't stop thinking about it! That's when you know it's perfect, and you'll keep it for years to come. A little pricey, but maybe I'll go for it? I'll keep you posted!

Fall is Here!

2011-10-05T22:41:00.000-04:00

I had an amazing weekend enjoying the cool, crisp Fall air in upstate New York at Stone Barns (only about an hour away from Manhattan) Fall Festival. Perfect fall weather, delicious eats, educational programs, and beautiful grounds to walk. Can you tell I had a great time?

The drive up was so nice with all the green surrounding us. It's amazing how green New York is just a few miles out of the city!

Adorable entrance to the Fall Festival.

Whole roasted pig, which we got to taste in the form of...

This guy right here - delicious pork sandwich.

Educational: we learned how to pickle vegetables and make apple butter.

Farm fresh produce makes for vibrant photos. I love beets!

Delicious desserts...

Sheep hanging together.

I would love to go back for a couple of programs they offer and to try their restaurant Blue Hill. I will definitely make this an annual event!

Anniversary: One Year in NYC!

2011-08-22T19:22:00.000-04:00

I can't believe it's already been an entire year since we packed up the Penske truck, and drove cross country from Orange County, CA to NYC. In one year I've:

- tried so many great new restaurants, a lot of which have been so delicious and memorable.
- learned to live and be creative with small spaces.
- cook in a tiny kitchen.
- curbed my dog.
- gone shopping galore.
- become open to branching out in my career choices.
- experienced all four seasons.
- taken advantage of the city's museums and parks.
- figured out the subway system.
... and so much more.

A few highlights from the cross country journey:
Our trust Penske truck. Clean, and comfortable.

Adam's Fish Sandwich at Rm Seafood, Mandalay Bay.

The Colorado Rockies.

Some corn fed beef in Nebraska.

Eating deep dish pizza from Lou Malnati's at Milleneum Park in Chicago.

Dinner at Michael Symon's Lola in Cleveland, Ohio.

Our very first meal in NYC after moving everything in, and where we plan on having our one year anniversary meal. A couple days early, unfortunately we won't be in town.

Happy one year! 08.25.10.

If I Could: Drive in NYC

2011-08-17T21:00:00.000-04:00

If I could drive in NYC, I would definitely zoom around (or be stuck in traffic) in the sea of yellow taxis in my shiny red Fiat 500! I first saw it in Europe a few years back, and now that it's sold in the United States, of course I don't need a car... and it would be more of a nuisance to have one. There's even a Gucci edition!

Move over Mini... and fierce looking Audi A4!

(Images via fiat.com)