La Dolce Vita

Lust List: June 2013

2013-06-17T10:30:00.000-05:00

This month, and if I am totally honest, every other month as well, I find myself drawn to classic, timeless staples and silhouettes mixed with bold colors, unexpected patterns, and a touch of glamour. No surprise there, right?! From the perfect little black dresses that can take you from morning to night to chic staples like eyelet, metallic sandals, and neutral bags, the stylish pieces on my June Lust List will take you through the summer and beyond.

{1. J.Crew Collection Pinwheel Eyelet Top | 2. Kenneth Jay Lane Coral and Rhinestone Drop Earrings | 3. J.Crew Remi Ribbon Sandals | 4. Cleobella Leo Clutch | 5. Shoshanna “Joyce” Maxi Dress | 6. Joie Behati Eyelet Dress | 7. J.Crew Gold Foil Minaudiere | 8. J.Crew Gabby Suede Sandals | 9. Michael Kors Collection “Miranda” Leather Tote | 10. J.Crew Embroidered Gauze Top | 11. J.Crew Punk Floral Twist Bandeau Tank | 12. Gap Perforated Wedge Sandal | 13. Tory Burch Halland Tote | 14. Kendra Scott Danielle Earrings in Abalone | 15. Anthropologie Sparkle Braided Sandals | 16. Three J NYC “Eloise” Pajama Set}

Which of these items are on your must-have list?

This Week’s Quote

2013-06-17T07:30:00.000-05:00

A Bientot’s 16th Annual Sale!

2013-06-15T07:32:00.000-05:00

{A Bevy of Bright Baubles at A Bientot}

Get ready, Houstonians! A Bientot’s famous annual sale starts today. In its 16th year, the sale has become a much-awaited event for devotees of Houston’s best store for fashion accessories of all types—jewelry, handbags, scarves, and shoes along with clothing, gifts, and a new line of chic monogrammed goods. While you’ll have to shop the sale between today, June 15th and Saturday, June 29th to see what has been marked down, here is a sneak peek of the store on my most recent visit.

{A Bientot is a veritable “candy store” for the fashion-obsessed!}

{The store itself is as chic as the wares at A Bientot. Notice the marble staircase, gorgeous iron railing, and framed Andy Warhol Chanel No. 5 print.}

{Necklaces and Bracelets Galore}

{Fun Pillows and Bright Bags—Perfect for summer!}

If you’re in Houston today, don’t miss the famous Sidewalk Sale to kick-off A Bientot’s Annual Sale. The Sidewalk Sale is one day only—TODAY, during regular business hours of 10:00 am until 5:00 pm.

A Bientot is located at:

2501 River Oaks Boulevard

Houston, Texas 77019

Fabulous Room Friday 06.14.13

2013-06-14T07:32:00.000-05:00

{David Kleinberg’s Chic New York Library}

It’s been a crazy week and I’m happy that it’s almost the weekend! I recently came across this handsome library in the home of New York-based interior designer, David Kleinberg and I just had to share it. It is too good not to! The space speaks to me because it is rooted in tradition with modern touches throughout. The masculine room features luxurious linen-paneled walls with nailhead trim in a grid pattern. So chic! The large sectional marries form and function. Upholstered in moss green flannel and linen adorned with moss green tape trim, the sectional sofa also doubles a queen size pull-out bed, allowing Kleinberg to have space for out-of-town guests.

{I am obsessed with the pair of Edward Wormley chairs in the foreground. The lines are stunning and the J. Robert Scott leather is gorgeous!]

{You can get a better feel for the color of the leather on the chairs in this image.}

{Stylish Built-In Storage, Stacks of Books for Inspiration, and Plenty of Chic Touches—what else could you need in an office? I really love the creamy taupe paint color on the built-in, door, and trim. I would love to know the name of it!}

Have a wonderful weekend! I am heading to Los Angeles tomorrow morning to visit my dear and talented friend, Mark Sikes. Be sure to follow along on Instagram for my L.A. updates!

{Images by Jeff Hirsch for New York Social Diary}

Styling Challenge: Six Bloggers, One Chic Tray

2013-06-13T13:00:00.000-05:00

{The Port 68 Mizner Silver Tray on my Dining Table}

Five of my favorite bloggers and I recently participated in Joy and Revelry's White Box Challenge. The premise was simple-- I got to pick one of my favorite items from my shop and send it to five bloggers of my choice. They had no idea what item I would be sending when they agreed to participate, but I assured them that it would be fabulous!

I selected the Port 68 Mizner Silver Tray. I was attracted to the Greek key handles, naturally! In addition, the silver leaf finish is beautiful. Eventhough I am typically a gold addict, the silver finish is really warm and looks super chic in any space, as you'll see here. The tray is a very substantial size, 28" W x 16" H, so it is ideal for so many purposes. Take a look at how we styled the tray and let me know which is your favorite!

{I used my tray as a centerpiece on my dining table, styling it with pewter candlesticks, my silver salt and pepper shakers, and some pretty arrangements of white hydrangeas and coral roses.}

{Erika of Small Shop Studio did a beautiful job of styling her tray-- no surprise there! I love that she went sort of monochromatic, using black and soft metallics to play up the colors of the tray. Styled this way, the tray would look fabulous on a coffee table or console. }

{I love that Arianna, of Arianna Belle, took a beautiful, but practical approach to styling her tray. She used it to keep all of her desk accessories contained. I am a firm believer in having a chic tray on one's desk. It makes a stylish statement and keeps you much more organized. Here, we see some fun Lucite accessories, fabric swatches for Arianna's gorgeous collection of custom pillows, and a stunning framed print of a Sevillana, or Spanish flamenco dancer.}

{Nancy, of Marcus Design, used her Port 68 Mizner Silver Tray on her coffee table, styling it with books, a candle, flowers, and a decorative object. I love the contrast between the round table and rectangular tray and the soft silver finish is the perfect backdrop for the vibrant hues of Nancy's books.}

{Lindsay, of The Pursuit of Style took a more unexpected approach to styling her tray. She decided to corral her not-so-neat boyfriend's toiletries and essentials that had taken over their shared bureau. The size of the tray and substantial Greek key handles keep the tray from being too feminine, so she knew it would be perfect for this purpose. I love the approach that she took!}

{Gabrielle of Savvy Home used her Port 68 Mizner Silver Tray on her coffee table. Using a tray to contain books, flowers, candles, and decorative objects keep things neat while creating a distinct focal point. The tray's handles work beautifully with the Greek key throw on Gabrielle's sofa.}

This was such a fun challenge and further cements my love of a good tray! They bring together the ideal balance of form and function and as you've seen here, they can be used in a variety of ways. For more information on the Port 68 Mizner Silver Tray, check it out in my Joy and Revelry Shop and don't forget to use the code LDV_WHITEBOX_10 to receive 10% off your purchase!

Sponsor Spotlight: Curtain Company Studio

2013-06-13T07:30:00.000-05:00

{For my breakfast room and family room, I selected the Beaded End Cap for 13/8" wooden pole in the Bronze finish. I know it's challenging to see the hardware against my chocolate paint color, but I wanted a clean, transitional look that would stand the test of time. The hardware compliments my curtains wonderfully, without detracting from their beauty.}

One of the challenges of being a decorator is finding reliable sources that deliver on quality, style, along with pricepoint and can deliver when you need them to. This is why I am always so thrilled to come across sources that I know I can depend on. I recently had some beautiful linen curtains with Greek key trim by The Curtain Exchange. They recommended that I use hardware from Curtain Company Studio and I could not be happier with the end result. Their assortment has just enough options-- you'll find something to suit each project without getting overwhelmed by all of the choices. In addition, they offer non-telescoping rods and their hardware is very high quality.

{My Breakfast Room}

Curtain Company Studio is based in Dallas, Texas, where all of their orders will ship from within 48-72 hours, making it easy to meet even the tightest of deadlines. Rods can be cut to custom lengths, as mine were, and they also offer splicing accessories.

Curtain Company Studio offers a simple, stylish hardware collection; available in sets or as individual pieces. Select color and style of finial or end cap to fit appropriate pole size. Choose from 1-3/8" wooden pole or a 1" metal pole. Pole options are 4', 6' or 8' in length — connectors and custom cuts are available. Wooden poles fit on wooden brackets or metal brackets (1-3/8"). Metal poles are sized for metal brackets (1"). Ultimately, this streamlined collection offers quality, convenience, and a customized look at a reasonable price.

Curtain Company Studio is offering La Dolce Vita readers an exclusive discount of 15% off your purchase through June 30, 2013. Simply enter the code LADOLCEVITA at checkout!

Style Spotting: Bohemian Rhapsody

2013-06-12T12:00:00.000-05:00

Hi La Dolce Vita readers! It's Lindsay from The Pursuit of Style and I'm back with another edition of Style Spotting. This month I'm loving bohemian influenced fashion and design. In my opinion, the leaders of this look are fashion designer, Isabel Marant, and textile designer, John Robshaw.

It seems like every time I spot some effortlessly chic girl with that "model off duty" vibe she's sporting Isabel Marant--usually from her Etoile line. I just can't get enough!

When it comes to bohemian inspired decor, no one does it better then John Robshaw. I just finished reading his book and was thrilled to see him gracing the cover of this month's Matchbook Magazine. John was gypset before it became a thing!

What I love most about bohemian style is it's casual elegance and exotic influences. Both John and Isabel's collections give the impression that it might be something you just happened to pick up at a souk in Marrakesh. It's that well-traveled look that I find so appealing.

Isabel Marant Dress | Katie Ridder Wallpaper | Monsoon Top | John Robshaw Pillow

If you're looking to add a little bohemia to your life these are my top picks. Embroidered details and wood block prints a-plenty. I hope you enjoyed this month's edition of Style Spotting. See you next month!

LDV Pop-Up Shop on Joy & Revelry

2013-06-12T07:00:00.000-05:00

One of the cool things about working with Joy and Revelry is that they scour the country looking for new artists, furniture makers, and artisans to feature. In the coming weeks, I will be adding some fabulous pieces to my shop, but this week, I am super excited about a pop-up shop with Liza Hathaway Matthews, a contemporary, abstract artist. Radiating a contrast of luminous color, graceful form, and texture, her paintings are inspired by nature, design and pattern. Harmony and movement are evident in her work. I was drawn to Liza's work because of the beautiful colors. Her paintings are at once bold and serene, finding the perfect balance in a feminine sensibility. You can check out Liza's complete pop-up collection in my Joy and Revelry shop!

My Home Tour + Sources

2013-06-11T07:30:00.000-05:00

{One of my Favorite Vignettes in my Home: Vintage Marcel Breuer Lounge Chair, West Elm Faceted Foxed Mirror Side Table, Leopard Velvet Pillow by Arianna Belle, Paint is "Aging Barrel" by Behr}

Thank you all again for all of the sweet words of encouragement this week after I shared a tour of my home on Style Me Pretty and announced the launch of Paloma Contreras Design. Your comments and emails mean so much to me and have totally made my week! I have also gotten a lot of emails asking about paint colors and product sources, so I thought I should share the house tour with sources here on LDV. My house is an example of my design philosophy: every space should have a good mix-- vintage and modern, high and low, masculine and feminine; so naturally, everything comes from a variety of places.

{Custom Rolled Arm Sofa, Visual Comfort Coffee Table (discontinued), Boho Ikat Pillows, Carousel Table Lamp from Circa Lighing}

{Square Tube Chandelier and Hargett Adjustable Table Lamp from Circa Lighting, Silver Leaf Tray with Greek Key Handles from Joy & Revelry}

{Vintage Faux Bamboo Credenza, Bryant Sconces from Circa Lighting, Abstract Paintings by Me}

{Turquoise Foo Dogs, Waylande Gregory Greek Key Plate from Zhush, iomoi Lucite Tray}

{Tate is most definitely not available for purchase, but he is a Cockapoo and we recommend the breed very highly! He is four years old, smart as a whip, and extremely affectionate. He may or may not have some diva tendencies, but you didn't hear that from me. | Embroidered Hotel Style Duvet and Shams, Trina Turk Greek Key Embroidered Linen Pillow, Coupe Table Lamp from Circa Lighting}

{Prints from 20 x 200, Desks from Ikea (we painted the bases gold), Martha Stewart Starburst Mirror from Home Depot}

(Desk Details}

{Iomoi Coakley Cay Stationery and Lucite Tray-- it's my signature pattern! Nate Berkus Urchin Object for Target, Russell + Hazel Acrylic Tape Dispenser and Stapler}

{Kitchen Details: Cabinet Paint Color is Martha Stewart Sharkey Gray}

{Vintage Chairs that we refurbished, Rug is from FLOR a few years ago and has sadly, been discontinued. I wanted more tiles to make the rug larger since they sent this to me for a promotional review a while back, but am bummed that they no longer have it. I love how low maintenance it is with a dog in the house and still love the pattern and color, so I can't bear to replace it with something else.}

{Extra Large Hicks Pendant from Circa Lighting, Custom Ivory Linen Curtains with Greek Key Trim by The Curtain Exchange, Curtain Hardware by Curtain Company Studio}

{Chevron Cashmere Throw from Williams Sonoma Home draped on Chair, Custom Ivory Linen Curtains with Greek Key Trim by The Curtain Exchange, Curtain Hardware by Curtain Company Studio, Nate Berkus Tortoiseshell that my Husband Gilded for Me}

{My Sofa and armchair are Custom, Coral Linen Throw Pillows with Greek Key Trim by Arianna Belle, Metal Banded Table Lamp from Circa Lighting}

{We recently had our built-in made and changed the fireplace surround to Carrara Marble, Vintage Cane Regency Armchairs that we refurbished, Custom Sofas with Nailhead Trim, Dean 12" Picture Lights from Circa Lighting}

{Coffee Table Details}

{Serena and Lily Pondicherry Headboard, Bedding Monogrammed by Lynn at The Monogram Market in Houston, David Hicks La Fiorentina Pillows by Arianna Belle, Round Weathered Wood Mirror from Z Gallerie, Vintage Parsons Console Table, Abstract Painting by Me, Longacre Floor Lamp from Circa Lighting}

{Bedding Details}

I hope that helps! If you're wondering about any other sources that you didn't see here, please leave a comment. If you'd like to inquire about my design services, please contact me here.

Add caption

LDV Artist to Watch: Lindsay Cowles

2013-06-10T11:30:00.000-05:00

{Broony Square Quad Installation}

Lindsay Cowles has been a sponsor on LDV for over a year now and it has bee so fun to see how she has grown as an artist over that time. A self-taught artist, Lindsay works mainly with oil paints, creating vibrant, abstract paintings evoking a variety of emotions. Her work has quickly garnered the attention of bloggers, editors, and interior designers alike, so I was thrilled when she shared some photos of recent installations of her work with us. Lindsay’s background in the fashion industry—she honed her skills in both New York and Los Angeles, has certainly contributed to the unique way in which she applies color and texture to her works. Lindsay is currently based in Richmond, Virginia, but her works have ended up in spaces around the country, as you’ll see here.

{Lauren Behfarin Interiors}

{Broony Square Dining Room}

{Office Installation}

{Richmond, VA Installation}

I am especially drawn to Lindsay’s paintings for her mastery of bold, saturated color. Her paintings also feature a great deal of movement in texture, making each piece completely unique. Lindsay’s collection is comprised of stunning original oil paintings, a new line of beautiful prints on canvas (mounted on 1.5” frames either museum or gallery wrapped), and a fabulous line of vibrant wallpapers and fabrics, allowing you you to use Lindsay’s inspiring work in multiple applications.

To see the full Lindsay Cowles Collection, please visit her blog. Please contact Lindsay directly at lindsaycowlesfineart@gmail.com for questions about pricing, commissioned work, or to view her full portfolio.

This Week's Quote

2013-06-10T07:30:00.000-05:00

Fabulous Room Friday 06.07.13

2013-06-07T07:30:00.000-05:00

This week's favorite room is a Pinterest find. I was drawn in by the rich mocha color of the walls which is very similar to the color I've used in my own living room, dining room, and family room. I also love the fantastic mix of furniture. It takes a real talent, in this case James Michael Howard, to make pieces in so many varying shapes and styles look so cohesive. The result is a space that looks completely layered and chic. While each piece would look amazing on its own, they look even better together. Which piece is your favorite? I am partial to the stylish brown and white chair and the mirrored coffee table. I love that the chevron upholstery has a more ethnic look than a typical zig zag pattern. Thank you all so much for your incredible outpouring of support this week as I announced that I was launching my new interior design and brand consulting business! I really appreciate all of your kind words, both here on LDV as well as on the Style Me Pretty Living Home Tour and "Behind the Blog" features. Have a wonderful weekend! {Image via At Home at Arkansas}

LDV Top 10: Abstract Art

2013-06-06T13:00:00.000-05:00

One of the most challenging parts of the design process is selecting artwork. If you're lucky, you'll find something you love early on in the process, but oftentimes, art is part of the final stages of a design project and it can be challenging to find something that works within the existing parameters of the space. I often advise clients and friends that it's better to have a blank wall and wait until you find something that you absolutely love as opposed to slapping something on the wall just for the sake of completing the space quickly. But what happens if you're in a pinch? Let's say you need something readily available, at a decent price point? In this "LDV Top 10" round-up, I'll focus on abstract paintings and prints because I happen to love abstract art. However, you can expect to see round-ups with other types of art in the future! Regardless of your favorite style of art, I think we can all agree that it's a great way to add color, personality, and even texture to any room.

{1 |2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10}
What style of art is your favorite? Which of these abstracts do you like the most?

LDV Gift Guide: Dads and Grads

2013-06-06T07:58:00.000-05:00

Now that summer is here, graduations are in full swing and Father's Day is just around the corner. Can you believe it? If you're not quite sure what to get the dads and grads this year, I've rounded up a few stylish options in a variety of price points. Keep in mind, LDV's picks for dads could work quite well for a stylish male graduate. In fact, I even have my eye on #7, the Kubus iPad Sleeve-- so chic! For the graduates, I've mainly kept girls in mind, but the moral of the story is that something personal or personalized goes a long way and anything to celebrate the graduate's newfound adulthood and independence is fabulous, too. So whether you opt for monogrammed pillow cases or gold bamboo flatware for the graduates new apartment or you decide to go for a classic pearl necklace or chunky gold bracelet that she can wear on interviews, these gifts are sure to stand the test of time.

{1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8}

A Classic House

2013-06-05T07:30:00.000-05:00

As I was flipping through the pages of the newest issue of the national edition of LUXE, I stopped dead in my tracks upon seeing this classic, chic home in Northern California. Located in Palo Alto, the 1920s Dutch Colonial house had undergone multiple renovations over the years, but the current owners, along with interior designer, Kristin Rowell of Scavullo Design and architect Carl Hesse of Three Design Studios were able to make the house look better than ever. The “facelift was driven by the existing colonial style” and now the interior and exterior work together seamlessly.
I was drawn to this house for its beautiful, classic bones. Symmetry abounds and the millwork and architectural details are timeless. I wish new home builders would focus more on building classic homes like this that stand the test of time as opposed to McMansions filled with gimmicky “design features”. I digress. Back to this stunning home—you’ll notice the palette is very subdued. Each room blends beautifully into the next because the neutral palette is used throughout with the occasional pop of color from an abstract painting or French Bistro chair. As much as I love using color and pattern, this house has inspired me to go neutral on a project soon. It’s so gorgeous!

{The entryway introduces the palette of crisp white millwork and espresso hardwoods. The architecture of this home is so graceful. The simplicity of the decor actually makes a very bold statement. The French Deco Horn Sconces are a personal favorite.}

{The living room is crisp and inviting.}

{I love the welcoming simplicity of the breakfast nook. The linen curtains add warmth and texture while the French Bistro Chairs add a great pop of color.}

{The kitchen was custom-designed featuring classic white cabinets and carrara marble countertops along with Halophane Pendants from Urban Archaeology and some charming French Bistro Stools.}

{The dining room is an exercise in restraint. Everything, except or the artwork is completely neutral. The slipcovered chairs and dining table have clean, minimal lines, while the Lindsay Adelman chandelier adds a modern, unexpected touch.}

{The Butler’s Pantry features the same classic elements as the kitchen.}

{The master bedroom features a custom built-in and relaxed grey and white bedding.}

{I love the creany dove gray color of the cabinetry in the master bath. As much as I love white cabinets with carrera marble, sometimes, the result can be a little too cool, bordering on sterile, so I love seeing the marble paired with a warmer paint color.}

{I am obsessed with the bed in the guest cottage. The simple, clean lines and polished nickel finish are so chic. It looks perfect paired with simple white linens.}

{Classic Dutch Colonial Elevation}

{1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6}

"Behind the Blog" on Style Me Pretty

2013-06-04T13:00:00.000-05:00

Thank you all so much for the comments, emails, and tweets with your kind words of support after I launched my interior design and consulting firm, Paloma Contreras Design! I am so excited about this new chapter and look forward to sharing many more projects and happenings with you. It was so fun sharing the tour of my home with on Style Me Pretty Living yesterday.

I’m pinching myself today because they are featuring me again this afternoon! This time around, we’ve done a “Behind the Blog” story which includes an interview about my experiences as a blogger and features photos of my home office. You can check it out here.

{Photo of my Inspiration Board by Kate LeSueur}

My Favorite Room: Nicole Gibbons

2013-06-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

_{Photo: David Land for BHG via Snapsland}

Hi everyone! It's Nicole from So Haute and Nicole Gibbons Studio here. I'm super excited to be sharing my favorite room today on LDV and thanks Paloma for inviting me to participate in this fun series! When Paloma asked me to share my favorite room in my home with you, it was a rather easy choice. I live in a one bedroom apartment in New York City (where space is a luxury!) and my living room happens to be where I spend most of my time. It's a very comfortable and serene space with the most lovely natural light pouring through the windows and it's filled with beautiful little treasures that I collected and curated over time. It's very a very personal room that reflects who I am and every piece is a treasure that has its own little story.

_{Photo: Austin Irving}

My apartment is a rental and basically was a boring white box before I moved in so I relied on color texture, layering and lots of personal touches to add dimension to the room and give it character. I should note that my living room is also a multi-functional space which encompasses living, dining and home office. There is lots of seating and my kitchen opens up into the room with a separating island so it's a wonderful space for entertaining.