The Zhush

Wednesday Wants

2013-05-22T03:15:00.001-07:00

Have you seen the new Jennifer Meyer jewelry collaboration with J.Crew?! I have to admit, most of these designer collaborations really don't do it for me, but this one blew me away. I'm a huge fan of Jennifer Meyer's jewelry and can often be found stalking her line at Barneys. Of the four pieces that Jennifer designed for J.Crew, these Edith cuffs are my absolute faves...I think I need them both, right? Any cool new collaborations catching your eye these days?

Rustic Modern Chic

2013-05-21T03:24:00.001-07:00

I was recently asked to describe my personal style in three words or less..."rustic" and "modern" did not even make the top five. But, that was before I saw this stylish townhouse designed by Amy Aidinis Hirsch, in the latest issue of At Home magazine. I love the easy, breezy, chic vibe of this home so much, that now I want to redact my original style answer and start all over...(I'm very ~~design fickle~~ impressionable this way).

Obsession Du Jour: Jane Beiles Photography

2013-05-20T03:29:00.001-07:00

I first became aware of the beautiful work of Jane Beiles Photography only just a few months ago, after a style stalking post I did about Nightingale Design. A few emails back and forth later, I was excited to learn that not only does Jane live and work in the next town over from mine, but we even know some of the same people. Up until now, I had naively thought that all the really great photographers that specialized in interiors live in big cities. Now that I know that Jane is so close by, all I can think about is collaborating with this talented lady on something special. Stay tuned...

Monday's P.O.P.

2013-05-20T03:24:00.000-07:00

pleasing purple

Image via: Veranda

Minor Obsessions

2013-05-17T03:36:00.001-07:00

It seems that the art-deco-jazz-age era of The Great Gatsby is back with an everything that's old is new again vengeance. Including the movie itself...which I know I'll be seeing...just maybe not at the movies. I can't even remember the last movie I saw in an actual movie theater. Until then, I'll be getting into the flapper spirit with these fun fashion accessories, chic urns for champagne in some old school coupes and I'm even contemplating re-reading the book or even better, re-watching the Robert Redford and Mia Farrow version. How about you? Will you be catching this at the box office soon?

Modern Glamour

2013-05-16T03:38:00.002-07:00

I fell hard for magazine editor Cynthia Frank's Southampton home in Elle Decor...(real hard) after going back to gaze at these interiors about five or six times, I figured it was time to just post some of these lovely images here. From the location to the soothing color scheme of black, white and blue and of course the incredible artwork collection, there is not one thing I would change. Old world glamour meets modern luxury, by the sea...what's better than that?

Accessory Spotting

2013-05-15T05:58:00.000-07:00

From time to time, I love to do a little round up of the images I've been collecting (pinning) that beautifully feature the same items that we sell here at zhush.com "in situ," especially when these very same accessories are styled really well. Seeing these, always inspires me, even more so, now that I'm contemplating putting together a newer and bigger look book this summer. I can't believe it's been almost two years since we shot the last one ~ crazy!

white ceramic origami star image via Cynthia Brooks Design.com
bronze urchin image via
large brass wall flower (on sale!) image via K. Mathiesen Brown Design.com
colored pencils and brass holder set image via Lucy and Co.
gold ceramic elephant image via hey Billie
python tray image via Rue Magazine
chevron/zig zag frame image via Muse Interiors

Wednesday Wants

2013-05-15T03:26:00.003-07:00

up bracelet by jawbone

This past Mother's Day I received a very cool and thoughtful gift from my family, the UP bracelet by Jawbone. It's one of those things that I didn't know I needed, but now I'm obsessed! Do you know about these hi-tech tracking/health devices? With the up bracelet, you put it on, download the app to your iPhone and then you can start tracking how much you move and how well you sleep, etc. In the few days that I've owned this I've absolutely been motivated to move more, a lot more...which can only be a good thing. Now I'm hoping all this activity will translate into better quality sleep, something I need to work on, but how? What healthy obsessions are keeping you up?

Your Beautiful Laundrette

2013-05-14T03:30:00.000-07:00

Back in 2008, when we renovated our home, our original laundry room became what is now my office. We had to create a new laundry room using a very small space. I had high hopes that this new room could be as chic as it was functional. This was before pinterest and all the images it affords us as inspiration and as a means of illustrating your hopes for your own home to others, namely contractors.

For some reason, despite the small size, no one seemed to get the gist of what I had planned for this room. I was discouraged from getting a counter top over the machines as it was deemed a hassle in the event that the washer or dryer needed repair. We had a major leak from an incorrect fitting within a week of installation and the tiles had to be re-done, at which point, an awkward trough for holding leaks was constructed. Above the machines, faulty cabinets had to be re-done twice, only to be removed permanently, it seems our laundry room was cursed. Now that it's been almost five years later, you'd think I'd be over this small design bump in the road...I mean the rest of our house came out great. But no, I still find myself staring at beautiful laundry rooms on pinterest and wondering how it is that everybody else can get this room so right? The last image is our laundry room, it's not awful, I love the wallpaper, but still...Do you ever torture yourself like this?

Images via: Design Transformations, Home and Garden, Desire To IDesire to Inspire, Sue Ellen Gregory

The Designers Designer

2013-05-13T03:26:00.001-07:00

I've been taking a little informal poll with some of my designer friends, asking them which designer they turn to the most in terms of inspiring their own work. A cagey bunch, it was hard to pry an answer...(pinterest, magazines, blogs and travel were not acceptable, I wanted names!) The one name that did seem to come up the most was Spanish designer Lorenzo Castillo. I've featured his sophisticated interiors here before, and by posting a few more favorites here today, it's easy to see why so many find his interiors so compelling. Do you agree, who do you turn to the most for inspiration?

Monday's P.O.P.

2013-05-13T03:21:00.001-07:00

purpliest perch

image via: Amanda Nisbet Design

Minor Obsessions

2013-05-10T03:42:00.001-07:00

scarf | top | polish | earrings | clutch

Between attending the ENK accessories show in New York and catching up with all the Met Ball gala coverage this week, I feel my personal style slowly expanding into new directions. For example, I set foot for the very first time into a Loft store and was pleasantly surprised by the selection of vibrant Boho inspired accessories. I walked out with this "perfect-for-spring" scarf, spending only $34.50 made me as happy as the paisley and stripe print. It's always fun to see what new colors Essie will come up with for summer and Essie's Neon Collection 2013, just might be my favorite yet...I can just see myself donning Saturday Night Disco on my toes with a slight tan and my favorite neutral/naturale K. Jacques (pedi-perfection!) Keeping with the brights, this neon endless summer clutch by Camilla, caught my eye, as did these chic safety pin earrings designed by Genevieve Jones, clearly I've been inspired by all the pretty in punk looks from the Met. Finally, remember this top? I think it was my gateway drug to floral prints...and now I'm obsessed with this Tibi tank. What obsessions are you focused in on this week?

Turnkey To My Heart

2013-05-09T03:39:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine has been house hunting for a while and has remarked on more than one occasion how hard it is to see past all the bad design choices and clutter. We started talking about the genius of beautiful interior staging and how sellers and builders that hire top notch designers to style their homes are often few and far between. Then I remembered the amazing job that Lynn Morgan Interiors, did on the model homes in the Kensett development in nearby Darien, Connecticut. So smart in every sense of the word. Couldn't you just move right in!? (I could!)

Wednesday Wants

2013-05-08T04:41:00.000-07:00

Tory Burch Carrie cap toe ballet flat

Yesterday, I was at a fashion accessory trade show in New York all day. Only to be followed by walking around Manhattan for several hours afterward...needless to say, my feet are not feeling so great right now. Picking the right pair of shoes for these trade shows is always a bit tricky for me (and I can't bring myself to wear sneakers, no matter how stylish), of course I don't wear heels...but some how after hours and hours traipsing around, even my go-to comfortable yet cute flats start to literally rub me the wrong (blisters on the back) way. While I was leaving the show I ran into a friend...she was looking so cute in these flats (and not hobbling and complaining like me) that I instantly had a shoe envy moment. When I complimented her on these very shoes (found online this morning!) my friend told me that these were her "show shoes" and she swears by them...lucky for me, they are now on sale. I just scooped up a pair as an early Mother's Day gift to myself, and hopefully these will become my trusty new trade "show shoes" as well. Do you have a pair of go-to flats for days when you'll be on your feet for hours? Do you do the sneaker thing?

Fabulous Mirror Giveaway With DENY Designs

2013-05-07T03:41:00.001-07:00

Today's giveaway is a lot of fun, as it's coming from such a creative and inventive design company, DENY Designs. Have you heard of DENY Designs already? If so, you're definitely in the know, as DENY has been featured in HGTV Magazine, Elle Decor and Real Simple, to name just a few!

Much more than just a home decor company, DENY works with over 90 hand-selected artists from around the world and uses their art on its' products. The best part is that the artists receive a portion of the proceeds, enabling customers to support art communities all over the globe. How awesome is that? It's a different business model that's really taking off and all of DENY products are printed in the US!

A few weeks ago, DENY launched the new Spring Wall Collection which includes magnet boards, clocks and these fabulous mirrors. Today, one lucky reader will get to win a medium size mirror of their choice! All you need to do is head over to DENY and fill out this form here, and that's it...you've entered! Open to the U.S. only. This giveaway will run until Friday, May 10, 2013, winner announced Monday, May 13, 2013...good luck!

Peeking Into Designer's Homes

2013-05-06T03:33:00.001-07:00

It's always cool to see how people who successfully create for a living, live. The Georgia home of Susan Hable of Hable Construction, did not disappoint. Lauren Muse, first introduced me to Hable Construction's "retro sensibility and vibrant color schemes," back in 2008, when we selected some bright yellow throw pillows for my outdoor furniture. Since then, I've become a big fan of this eclectic line, especially the Hickory Chair collaboration. It seems the Hable aesthetic is all about embracing tradition without ever taking itself too seriously, and what's not to love about that...to see more of this joyfully appointed home, head over to Elle Decor.

Monday's P.O.P.

2013-05-06T03:27:00.000-07:00

purple peek

Image via: HouseBeautiful

Minor Obsessions

2013-05-03T04:30:00.000-07:00

This week just flew by! No doubt that all the beautiful sunshine we are experiencing here in New York helped to make the days seem to zoom on by...and here we are at the start of the first weekend in May, not to mention, Cinco de Mayo on Sunday! So naturally, festive accessories are really catching my eye, both in my personal purchases and what I'm featuring in the store these days (there is always a lot of overlap here). While my clothes tend to be basics...chambray tops, white jeans, v-neck tees, etc...once the warmer months arrive, it's fun to experiment with accessories. This season, there is a lot to choose from...

What bag wouldn't look cuter with a pom pom tassel attached to it? Bright button earrings in of the moment emerald green. Pattern, texture and color all in one versatile tote. Mint and navy and monograms all look so right together ~ obsessed with this key chain. This chunky, faceted ring would work so well with all my summer maxi-dresses. A tote that seems to imply happy times~pink fuzzy trim, pom-poms and a really fresh shape...love! Sandals that were made for summer soirees, gold heels, beaded straps and all. Feliz Cinco de Mayo mis amigos!

Style Stalking: Terrat Elms Interior Design

2013-05-02T03:39:00.000-07:00

These style stalks are easily one of my favorite posts, and May is absolutely one of my favorite months. Fresh and happy, two adjectives that not only remind me of spring, but also clearly apply to the design work of Boston based, Terrat Elms. Check out all the inspiring rooms they've put together and let me know if you agree!

Gifts For Grads

2013-05-01T16:17:00.000-07:00

Gifts for Grads, Moms and even Dads! We've got you covered for all your upcoming gift giving needs...

Wednesday Wants

2013-05-01T03:38:00.000-07:00

I have so many happy memories tied in to this landmark, iconic store...getting my haircut on the top floor, after hours, when I was just starting out in New York (at the time Frederik Fekkai trainees offered a deeply discounted deal AND you got to sneak into the store after closing!) enjoying a lovely brunch with my "maid of honor" hours before my wedding, celebrity spotting...Anna Wintour (rode alone in the elevator with her...twice!) Sarah Jessica Parker, tried to stalk her in ready to wear, until she was whisked away to a private fitting area...well, the list goes on and on, and every New Yorker that loves fashion probably has a similar one, which is part of the appeal of this movie! Really want to go see this...it's opening in a few days in NYC. Until I get the chance, I'll gladly take the book as a primer (Mother's Day hint alert) Blogger field trip anyone? Who's with me:)

Statement Spaces

2013-04-30T03:28:00.002-07:00

Loved seeing these shots of the stunning NYC apartment that Daun Curry of Modern Declaration, designed for the owners of Moroccanoil (a favorite hair product) in the magazine section of The New York Observer. That built-in library/window seat component is everything...

Sweet Child O' Mine

2013-04-29T03:35:00.002-07:00

This is my younger daughter's bedroom. It's hard to believe, but today my daughter, my middle child will be turning eleven. You may remember that when my oldest turned eleven, we gave her bedroom a whole new look...it was even featured in a national magazine! A hard act to follow and now the time is here. Even though my daughter and I have been all over pinterest for months looking for some inspiration for her room, we really can't find anything that we both agree on. When I re-did my older daughter's room, finding that initial inspiration was key. The room practically designed itself after we had the visual we needed. This time around, it's more of a challenge. The room is smaller with windows on one side and closets taking up another wall. So far, all we know for sure is that we'll be keeping the color scheme of lavender and green. Here are a few more thoughts on possible purchases and another perspective of the room. Do you have a girl's room pinterest board we should follow? Any feedback at all is more than welcome!

pendant | art | desk | chair

Two lamps, just like this one, on either side of the bed are the only items we can agree on for now. Despite the great price, I'm holding off on getting them. There is a slight chance that we might do a day bed on the wall that the desk is now on, in which case we will not need lamps flanking the bed. Where do we go from here? (help.)

Monday's P.O.P.

2013-04-29T03:25:00.000-07:00

penthouse purple

Image via: Miles Redd

The Zhush

Wednesday Wants

Rustic Modern Chic

Obsession Du Jour: Jane Beiles Photography

Monday's P.O.P.

Sponsored Post: The Perfect Rug

Minor Obsessions

Modern Glamour

Accessory Spotting

Wednesday Wants

Your Beautiful Laundrette

The Designers Designer

Monday's P.O.P.

Minor Obsessions

Turnkey To My Heart

Wednesday Wants

Fabulous Mirror Giveaway With DENY Designs

Peeking Into Designer's Homes

Monday's P.O.P.

Minor Obsessions

Style Stalking: Terrat Elms Interior Design

Gifts For Grads

Wednesday Wants

Statement Spaces

Sweet Child O' Mine

Monday's P.O.P.