Lilly Pond(ering)

Currently Loving: Copper & Penny Loafers

2012-02-29T19:20:00.002-05:00

Penny Stock: Inspired by Copper by lillyphunq featuring bronze jewelry

So I still love brass (and gold and bronze;) but lately I'm having a thing with copper! The color of a brand new penny (though hammered copper is soooo spot on)! I am seriously wishing I had all copper pots and pans hanging above my (imaginary) kitchen island. I wanted to throw copper into my look too so I went out and bought a pair of penny loafers recently and was so disappointed to find out (post purchase) that they are not able to hold a penny, it just falls out:( I know Rose Gold is having a moment but when it comes to decor, wouldn't you say copper is awfully close?! I love the idea of using copper metal touches (i.e. hardware) as a "color" in a space, what do you think? Are you digging copper at all? What fashion/home accessory do you have that is copper?

Do you think it's nerdy to wear penny loafers with pennies in them? Is it too circa 19?? for your taste?! Speaking of Penny loafers...here's a little guide in case you're inspired to get a pair! That way I'm not the only nerd walking around proudly sporting penny loafers!

Penny Loafers!!!! by lillyphunq featuring taupe high heels

Color Stories: Lavender & Lemon

2012-02-20T22:21:00.000-05:00

ice cream photo via Spoonfoolery blog, look from Jill Stuart Spring 2012 RTW via Style.com

It's Valentine's Day!

2012-02-14T19:53:00.000-05:00

photo and quick recipe via cupcakeproject

Hello there! I'm sorry I've been missing in action:/ I have been off on big and little adventures and just returning to reality but did not want to miss the opportunity to wish you all a Happy Valentine's Day!! Do you have any Valentine's plans? The Mister made reservations at one of my favorite restaurants so we'll be heading out in just a bit. Before I go though, I wanted to share this recipe I found via cupcake project for the cupcakes in the photo above! You can make just two of these in your microwave!!!! In less than 10 minutes! Why not whip up a quick little dessert?! Have you ever "baked" in your microwave? Please let me know if you try this out, I'd love to know how they turn out!

Hope you spend your evening in great company!

Love,

Lilly

A Muse: Tony Duquette

2012-01-26T21:08:00.000-05:00

Coach Malachite ring via TMagazine , Rug via Roubini Rugs and chair via 1stDibs

A lot of you probably already know about Mr. Tony Duquette, famous designer and old-Hollywood royalty, who was known for thinking that More is More. When I first graduated I obsessed over mid-century modern and minimal, clean designs and now, 5 years later I find my style has evolved a bit. While I still love modern design through and through for the past few years i have loved worldly, lived in, eclectic spaces filled with details and touches of glamour and elegance done right. So I can say me and my taste have evolved to where I have a mind open enough to fully appreciate and feel inspired by the work and style of Tony Duquette instead of dismissing it as gaudy or over-the-top. Clearly I am not the only one who is smitten! Collections inspired by Tony Duquette have been popping up everywhere for the past few years! A fabric line for Jim Thompson, a collection for Baker Furniture, one for Roubini Rugs and now...a beautiful collection for Coach!

I only learned about Mr. Duquette 3 or 4 years ago when my Jim Thompson fabric rep, Diane introduced me to a Jim Thompson fabric line inspired by the designs of Tony Duquette. My favorite still being the green colorway of Gemstone a Malachite pattern made famous by Duquette (see images above). I even got to use the blue colorway of this fabric on some bolster pillows in a model cabana I designed a while ago (see photo I had on my phone of this space and tiny piece of said bolster pillow here). I have been obsessed with Malachite ever since! I almost fell off my chair when I saw Jim Thompson's Golden Sunburst fabric curtains on the set of the late Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien. And I drooled over my keyboard when I saw these photos taken at a luncheon hosted by Sferra at Tony Duquette's home, Dawnridge (in love with that lumbar pillow!!). And I am in love with several pieces of the Selected Works of Tony Duquette Collection for Baker. Have you seen this chair or this gold toad?! And now I've added this ring, this bracelet and this necklace to my wishlist of Tony Duquette inspired pieces. So tell me, are you a fan of Tony Duquette's work? What is your favorite Tony Duquette inspired piece? Do you agree with more is more?

Color Stories: Splashes of Neon

2012-01-18T22:03:00.000-05:00

Neon meets Neutral Birthday Party Theme idea from Martha!, Neon Cambridge Satchels via Lucky Magazine, image of nail polishes via The Vanity Table, palette by me

New Year, New Color: Welcome Pantone's 17-1463 Tangerine Tango

2012-01-16T22:47:00.000-05:00

Here is 17-463 Tangerine Tango, Pantone's Color of the Year for 2012! What do you think?! I will admit that I didn't think I was ready to obsess with orange/tangerine again so soon (remember when everything was orange everywhere a couple of years ago, often times used along with a chartreuse/lime green?) and I don't love the name (sorry! Perhaps they could have referenced something else in nature that is that color and isn't citrus;) but despite my initial reaction this lovely color is really growing on me! I think it will look lovely with muted grays, taupes and mints or blues for fashion and interiors. I will continue to explore more of Pantone's color selections with you this Spring but for now, here is Tangerine Tango! Will you be incorporating it in your wardrobe or decor this year? Were/are you kind of over "tangerine" too? If so, do you think a different point of reference/name or pairing it with more muted tones will make tangerine seem new again? What would you have called/named this color? Please comment, I'd love to know your thoughts! xo

looks and images of Spring 2012 fashion trends via Marie Claire

Frédéric Fekkai's living room designed by Robert Couturier (look at those Milo Baughman chairs! swoon!) via Elle Decor

lovely photo and Needled Paths Sweater Skirt via Anthropologie

Rain Boots via Gap

photo by Youngna Park

images via The Ritzy Bee Blog found on pinterest

photo via Trendy Traveler

Pantone Tangerine 17-1463 by lillyphunq featuring feather jewelry

Happy 2012! One week down, 51 more to go!

2012-01-08T20:01:00.002-05:00

photo and DIY project from Ruffled Blog via Pinterest

Happy New Year! And just like that 2011 has passed us by! I started this blog mid-December 2010 and cannot believe it's been over a year! I am sorry I have not been posting as often as I would like, 2012 has been very busy so far. I am still coming up with my new year resolutions. So far all I have is to learn how to play tennis, learn to speak French, be more patient and commit to a life-long diet and exercise regimen. I don't know why but I'm pretty excited about 2012! I think it's going to be a good one, I hope I'm right! Are you excited about 2012 too?! What are your new year resolutions?

What are you doing New Years Eve? I want to Paartay!

2011-12-29T20:25:00.001-05:00

New Year Drink Stirrers (sadly, sold out) via heathoriginal on etsy, Shimmering New Years Streamers via Martha Stewart.

Every year I get all excited about New Years Eve and every year it comes and goes without a real POW! I like the idea of a huge party where me and a couple of close friends are somewhat anonymous and have a crazy night in a beautiful house that we'll never visit again, in our stories we won't know everyone's name but our memories will be happy nonetheless. In my dreams I have a huge, beautiful house and I invite everyone over for an amazing New Years Eve gathering that consists of fancy shmancy dressed up guests, lots of shimmery New Years Eve decor, a lovely (and yummy) dinner, followed by heavy drinking and lots of people (the more people the better the party) and conversation and great music (and dancing for the dancers) and amazing, indulgent desserts followed by fireworks. I would have plenty of guest bedrooms so people would be welcome to stay the night (i.e. can drink heavily without worry) and in the morning I would whip up a big, delicious breakfast and those who want to stick around can stay for our New Years Day tradition of watching movies in our pajamas all day. What are your plans for New Years Eve? Better yet, what are your dream(y) New Years Eve plans? Do tell!

Fall 2011: Orchid Hush Pantone 13-3805 and Quarry Pantone 15-4305

2011-12-22T01:48:00.000-05:00

Here are the last two of Pantone's Top 10 Colors for Fall 2011! I almost didn't make it but alas I did, who cares if it's the last day of Fall/first day of Winter, right?! I cannot believe Winter is here! I think Orchid Hush Pantone 13-3805 and Quarry Pantone 15-4305 are great colors to transition from Fall to Winter. Wintery, dusty blues always look just as great with a little glitter and a little shimmer as they do with cozy warm Fall colors, do you agree? Here they are and here's to a wonderful Winter and to a colorful 2012! Cheers!

Bedroom design by Ashley Goforth Designs, photo via Decor Pad

Street Style via Harper's Bazaar

Jennifer Lopez's Kitchen via Veranda

lovely photo via pinterest

18K GF necklace, with metal spikes on vermeil bar- gold filled necklace via Tigerlily Dream

photo via Rue Magazine

photo via House Beautiful

pretties via the decorista

Fall 2011: Pantone's Orchid Hush & Quarry by lillyphunq featuring blue heels

Holidays 2011: Gift Guide for the Hostess with the Mostess

2011-12-14T23:07:00.000-05:00

Holidays 2011: Gift Guide for the Hostess with the Mostess by lillyphunq featuring chain jewelry

Fall 2011: Coffee Liqueur Pantone 18-0930 & Nougat Pantone 16-1320

2011-12-11T13:37:00.000-05:00

Warm and earthy, Coffee Liqueur Pantone 18-0930 and Nougat Pantone 16-1320 woven together would make the perfect heather, wouldn't they? Each color is perfect for Fall and so lovely combined in one color palette! So which is your favorite of Pantone's Color Selections for Fall 2011? Only 2 more to go! Here is Coffee Liquer & Nougat...

photo via pinterest

photo of Living Room via Lonny Magazine

photo via vogueprincessnaija's blog

photo via Wit and Delight

photo from Lonny Magazine via The Aestate

photo via handitover blog

brown living room photo via the lennox

photo via pinterest

Fall 2011: Pantone's Coffee Liqueur and Nougat by lillyphunq featuring a brown shoulder bag

Outfit to Outfitted: Cozy, Sunny, and Wintery

2011-12-08T22:39:00.000-05:00

Outfit

Blanched & Buckled Cardigan and photo via Anthropologie

Outfitted

photo via The Aestate

Holidays 2011: Ladylike Gifts

2011-12-08T11:21:00.002-05:00

Holidays 2011: Ladylike Gifts by lillyphunq featuring clutch bags

Holidays 2011: Gift Guide for the Glamour Girl

2011-12-04T15:57:00.000-05:00

Holidays 2011 Gift Guide: For the Glamour Girl by lillyphunq featuring h&m bags

Fall 2011: Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-26T16:45:00.000-05:00

photo and lovely head dress via The Trend Boutique

Happy (belated) Thanksgiving! I hope you spent it with family and friends you love! I am thankful for so many things! Especially my wonderful husband, my family, my amazing friends and for all of our health and happiness!

I still cannot believe it's the Saturday after Thanksgiving! Can you believe it? Can you believe how fast this year has passed?! We're a blink away form Christmas and New Years, I don't know where the time went. They say the older one gets the faster time passes by, it's a scary thought when you worry that half of your life might have passed:( Forgive the melancholy, I just got back from watching The Descendants, you should check it out, especially if you're in the mood for a good cry. I am in love with the headband in the photo above, I wish I could get away with wearing something like that to Thanksgiving dinner, too much? I did get to finally wear these earrings (in the photo above). I got them in NYC for a couple of bucks and absolutely love them! Have spent the weekend relaxing and spending time with family and friends. We are headed out to our friends house for homemade pizza and s'mores by the fire pit (I am so excited!!). Hope your weekend is amazing and long!! xo

Fall 2011: Deep Teal Pantone 19-4914

2011-11-17T23:38:00.000-05:00

When I studied color while in design school I learned that teal was by far the most flattering color of all. It suits any lighting, every skin tone and makes everything around it look it's best. Besides how flattering it is, deep teal is also very sophisticated and classic, isn't it? I would say it's one of my favorite colors ever! Is it one of your favorites? Here is lovely deep teal in fashion, interiors, photography and shopping, just for kicks:)

Valentino Fall 2011 Runway via Posh Glam

Florence Broadhurst wallpaper via Signature Prints

Dark and Moody designed by Miles Redd via House Beautiful

photo of Lea Michele in the December 2011 issue Allure Magazine via cool to wear

Natural Curiosity by Earth Sea Warrior via Coco&Kelley

Marc Jacobs Fall 2011 RTW Runway via Style.com

beautiful space designed by Ashlina aka the decorista via Adore Magazine's Oct/Nov 2011 issue

NY Street Style via Harper's Bazaar

Deep Teal Pantone 19-4914 by lillyphunq featuring a silk shawl

Fall 2011 Shopping Guide for Juan Carlos

2011-11-09T18:17:00.001-05:00

Fall 2011 Shopping Guide for Juan Carlos by lillyphunq on polyvore.com

Color Stories: Orange & Navy Love

2011-11-07T22:23:00.000-05:00

Art Nouveau Graphic Design circa 1900 via Grafik Mag

look from Marc Jacobs Spring 2012 Runway via Sunrainey

Fall 2011: Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T01:13:00.002-04:00

image via pinterest

I don't know why but for the first time ever I am not that excited about Halloween:( Are you excited about Halloween this year? Are you dressing up tomorrow? I decided not to dress up this year but I am going to visit my niece and nephew tomorrow evening to take them trick or treating so it'll probably really feel like Halloween then.

So now that Halloween is almost behind us we're two shakes away from Thanksgiving! Yay! I think I will attempt to make this cake this year. But before I get all excited about Thanksgiving I will be focusing a lot of my energy into my sister-in-law's Baby Shower! Am in planner mode so now it's just a matter of executing the concept. Hope you have a great Halloween!! xo

Fall 2011: Cedar Pantone 16-0526

2011-10-28T00:26:00.000-04:00

Call it olive, sage or khaki green, Cedar Pantone 16-0526 is quite lovely isn't it? It's not the most exciting color but definitely an old reliable neutral. I like that it's a dusty green or gray green if you will. Cedar is perfect for fall and a nice touch of green in Pantone's color palette for Fall 2011. Do you consider this color a neutral too? Are you decorating with or dressing in Cedar this season?

Givenchy Spring RTW Runway via WWD

misty rain art print serene calm nature landscape photography soft... (clipped to polyvore.com)

Living Room design by Laura Kirar via Elle Decor

photo via ibeautifulfashionaccessories blog

Bathroom via Elle Decor

Ralph Lauren via Vogue

workspace designed by Lulu Powers via Lonny Magazine

Cedar Pantone 16-0526 by lillyphunq featuring a ruched skirt

Color Stories: Black & Gold

2011-10-26T23:06:00.000-04:00

photos from left to right: photo via weheartit, look from Gucci Spring 2012 runway via Vogue, Roberto Cavalli Ring, photo of vignette in Interior Designer Ryan Korban's office via thelennox, photo of Chanel nail polishes via This is Glamorous

This Week: Saying good bye to an old friend:(

2011-10-23T23:36:00.000-04:00

graphic via grafik mag

As many of you already know, this week we said good bye to our beautiful 8 year old greyhound, Tracy. After 5 wonderful years with our boy, it has been a rough couple of days without him. I miss him so much. Thank you, Tracy for 5 amazing years! We love you, Tracy! And we'll miss you very very much:(

Fall 2011: Phlox Pantone 19-2820

2011-10-17T09:55:00.000-04:00

I've been obsessed with violet/purple many times in my life and while I'm not currently obsessed, I do think Phlox Pantone 19-2820 is quite lovely for fall. Very nice with gray and taupe and warm tweeds, violet can be very elegant and grown up when done right. Here are a few images of Phlox as well as a shopping guide in case it is one of your favorites;) So tell me, what color are you currently obsessed with?

photo of coats via JCrew, graphic by designer Christian Zuzunaga

look from Proenza Shouler Runway for Fall 2008 (see..it's back!) via Marie Claire

watercolor by Cate Parr via The Cool Hunter

Dining Room with "purple" walls via Spark!

bold make up look via Marie Claire, purple sofa photo via pinterest

Look from Marni via Harper's Bazaar

Purple Chesterfield (swoon!) sofa via Decor is like butter

handsome library designed by Victoria Hagan via Elle Decor

photo via the Coveteur

photo via Trendy Traveler

photo via la vie est belle

Phlox Pantone 19-2820 by lillyphunq featuring retro shoes

This Week: Cupcake to Cupcake

2011-10-15T16:46:00.000-04:00

photo and watercolor of cupcake by me

I love photographing food. I'll admit that it's not the easiest thing to do, especially if it's in a dark restaurant or kitchen. I get very excited when I happen to want to photograph food I'm eating in daylight. Since I don't always carry my camera with me I rely on my phone to take most pictures of food (right before I eat it!). Sure the camera on my iPhone is great but I rely on quick, easy editing with my instagram or shake it apps most of the time. Styling food is also not the most practical thing in all situations, a clean white plate and under cabinet lighting usually do the trick. Sometimes, frustrated because I can't seem to get a good shot I am tempted to just change my kitchen's backsplash in order to create a nicer back drop for my food photography sessions. So you can imagine how happy I was to read these 10 tips to improve your food photography! Speaking of pretty food, last night I had the most amazing guava filled cupcakes (yes that's plural;) at our niece's birthday get together. Inspired by the article and in the mood to do something creative today, I worked on a little watercolor inspired by the photo of said cupcake. Are you obsessed with photographing every delicious thing you make, bake or eat? Any tips you want to share? So this week...
1. I wish I had come across this picture when I was putting together my post for Bamboo Pantone 14-0740.
2. Recently, I was invited to attend a Cooking show at the Miami Culinary Institute. There I made a couple of new friends! And!! We're going to get together about once a month and teach each other our recipes! Our first "cooking class" will take place in a couple of weeks, I'll let you know how it goes:)
3. I love when design is inspired by some other art form and reinterpreted into something that's lovely and different from the original inspiration (i.e. the dress version of a painting). Check out Vogue's Museum as Mood Board: Spring Fashion Collections are Rooted in Fine Arts.
4. Speaking of photography, do you know The Selby? I've read the blog for years and always love seeing The Selby in T Magazine. Here's the latest article, even more cool to me because of it's wonderful, Hemingway inspired title, A Moveable Feast.
5. How fabulous is Joy Venturini?! I love when women remain stylish icons at every age! PS: Feel free to flip through the rest of the October issue of Matchbook Magazine while you're there, it's wonderful (and free!!).

Have a wonderful weekend!! xo

Outfit to Outfitted: Green Grass & Clouds

2011-10-12T07:57:00.000-04:00

Outfit

In Clouds blouse from Anthropologie (I want it so bad!)

Outfitted

image via The Trendy Traveler

Fall 2011: Emberglow Pantone 17-1547

2011-10-10T08:03:00.000-04:00

It looks like Coral Rose and Honeysuckle had a baby! It's Emberglow, one of Pantone's Top 10 colors for Fall 2011, isn't it pretty?! And I love the name too!! The color reminds me of a Cameo ring my babysitter wore almost everyday when I was a little girl. Its surprisingly cheerful for Fall and will look absolutely lovely with grays and browns. A deeper version of that melon-pink I raved about this summer, I think emberglow is absolutely lovely! Here it is in fashion, interiors and a little shopping guide you might find handy if you're inspired! Is it one of your favorites? Have you any emberglow pieces in your Fall wardrobe or design wishlist? I'd love to know!

photo of a lovely dessert via Le Monde de Tokyobanhbao

lovely photo from Trendy Traveler via Pinterest

photos from Lonny Magazine

woven scarf from Forever21, Essie's California Coral nail polish via Apothica, Marc Jacobs Coral bag via Matches Fashion, cupcake wrappers via Koyal Wholesale

look from Paris Fashion Week Street Style via Marie Claire

Pop Rocks necklace - rough Agate on gold plated chain via Tigerlily Dream on Etsy

lovely Vitra ad via Yellow Trace

Peony wallpaper from Urban Outfitters

Emberglow Pantone 17-1547 by lillyphunq featuring a pocket wallet

This Week: Spouts and Pouts

2011-10-08T19:11:00.003-04:00

photo from Blanaid via pinterest

It's a perfectly rainy day on Miami Beach. Perfect because it's Saturday and I don't really have to be anywhere. There are tornado warnings for all of Miami-Dade county so it's absolutely okay that I have spent the day lounging on my sofa reading and watching TV. Aren't rainy days like this the best?! How are you spending your Saturday? Is it rainy where you are? So this week...

1. My lovely friend, Yelsi invited me to go with her to Sassy City Chicks Fashion Bash 2011 on Thursday night. It's always great to spend some quality girl time with friends! Well at the Fashion Bash I had the pleasure of meeting Shira Kastan, owner of local company/brand Robbie Lip Gloss. I am quite obsessed with Rosebud Salve but I must say, Robbie lip gloss is pretty amazing! The fact that it contains vitamins and isn't sticky makes it feel as good as Rosebud with the added bonus that it also looks all glossy and pretty and smells great! I tried Pomegranate you can check out the rest of the colors here. PS: We won our tickets to the Sassy City Chicks Fashion Bash on Kelly's Kloset.

2. We went to watch 50/50 and it was excellent! We laughed, we cried and left the movie feeling great. I highly recommend it!

3. We had a great start to our weekend! We enjoyed a lovely dinner with friends last night! We sipped on Mint Juleps while our friends prepared the most amazing Asian pear and steak salad! Aside from the delicious food it is always great to spend a Friday evening in great company:)

4. I am so excited that I'm attending the opening night of Elle Decor's Miami Showhouse! Are any of you attending too?

5. I bake a lot, all the time but have found it quite challenging to make a chocolate cake I love:( I made my very first one for my husband's birthday and didn't love it. I think it was the chocolate butter cream frosting I made with Cocoa Powder that I didn't like. So I'm going to try again tomorrow for my sister-in-law's Birthday! So this time I think I'll make this recipe with the milk chocolate frosting I found in this recipe. Wish me luck! PS: Please send me any amazing chocolate cake recipes you recommend!

Have a lovely weekend! Stay dry! xo

Outfit to Outfitted: Understated Girly

2011-10-05T23:49:00.000-04:00

Outfit

Eastward Dress Coat from Anthropologie

Outfitted

Flintwood and Hicks' Living room via Lonny Magazine

Fall 2011: Bamboo Pantone 14-0740

2011-09-28T21:07:00.000-04:00

Summer may be behind us but that doesn't mean there isn't a fun shade of yellow to surround ourselves with. Bamboo Pantone 14-0740 isn't a Summer sunshine yellow, it's more subdued but still pop(py) enough to brighten one's day! Here is the peppy Bamboo in Interior Design, Fashion and pretties as well as a little shopping guide I whipped up on polyvore! So...do you love Bamboo Pantone 14-0740? Will you be wearing it or using it in decor this Fall?

Living Room design by Michael DePerno and photo by Laura Resen via Elle Decor

The Great Gatsby, Mini yellow centerpiece via Martha Stewart

Look by Monique Lhuillier via Marie Claire

Velvet Sunnies and Vintage Chanel Clutch

Bedroom scene via Rue Magazine

photo and Lemon Meringue Bar recipe via Martha Stewart

Bamboo Pantone 14-0740 by lillyphunq featuring platform boots

hello, fall

2011-09-19T23:11:00.000-04:00

hello, fall by lillyphunq featuring wedge pumps

And just like that, Fall is almost here! Despite the warm weather and desire to wear summer clothes until Winter, I am very very excited about Fall! I will miss the relaxed vibe that comes along with Summer. I will miss beach days (there were too few) and BBQ's and knowing that the year is still young. I am happy that Tracy has made it this far and amazed that another season has passed. I'm excited about new beginnings and baking fall treats and the start of another holiday season! Here's to Fall! So this (past) week...
1. Am sorry to have posted so little last week, we were having internet issues:/
2. Want to go to Chicago to see this ! I've never actually seen the Marina City Apartment Towers in person but have loved them for years because I associate them with the cover of Wilco's Yankee Hotel Foxtrot.
3. I'm not the only one revisiting and feeling inspired by the Great Gatsby!
4. I totally missed the Missoni for Target launch:( Did any of you partake? What did you buy?! Do share!
5. For the first time in years I am not designing. I must say the break is kind of nice and the excitement of a new job is refreshing but I wish there was a great source for regular inspiration. I love so many blogs and magazines but more than ever I soooo wish Domino Magazine was still around:( What have you "replaced" Domino with?

PS: I'm loving the new Fall colorways of Joy Cho's wallpaper !

Enjoy the last days of Summer! xo

This Week: Refreshing one's perspective

2011-09-11T01:22:00.000-04:00

photo by Sarah Rhoads via pinterest

Once in a while a new routine will feel completely natural and easy to get into. This was the case for me this week. I had the most wonderful first-week-of-work ever, so good that I am actually excited to go back! So here's to new beginnings and really, naturally embracing change!

Today marks the 10 year anniversary of the tragic terrorist attacks of September 11th, 2001. After 10 years it is still terribly shocking to re-watch news footage, and so sad. My heart goes out to all of those who lost loved ones on that day:( It's silly that although we never forget that day we do sometimes forget to be thankful for each day and enjoy the little things because life really is too short. I am thankful for my life and for my wonderful husband, family and friends and hope that you are all happy and safe:) So this week...

1. My husband's birthday is coming up! This time next week my love will be 34!

2. I totally missed Fashion's Night Out this year:( I know the FNO events in NYC were wonderful thanks to all the bloggers who've posted pictures but haven't heard a peep about the events in Miami. Unfortunately, FNO in Miami is nothing like it is in NYC. Did any of you attend any events? If so, how was it? I'd love to know what I missed.
3. Have any of you ever made a New England clam chowder? As soon as the weather cools off I am totally making a New England clam chowder and these biscuits!! If you have a great New England clam chowder recipe you'd like to share, please send it to me here.
4. How lovely are the images in this lookbook I found on pinterest?
5. Here are photos and an article about the design of the 9/11 Memorial designed by Architect Michael Arad and Landscape Designer Peter Walker.
Hope your Sunday is restful and great! xo

Currently Loving: Seeing spots again!

2011-09-08T23:34:00.000-04:00

look from Marc Jacobs F/W 2011 Runway via Vogue

Polka dot Black and White wallpaper via The Second Bedroom

I used to be a huge fan of polka dots! When I graduated and started working at my previous job they expressed a dislike to polka dots in design and as I became used to editing away the very idea of using polka dots, I kind of drank the kool-aid and stopped liking them altogether:( I've come around since then, but not like before...until now! I love seeing polka dots everywhere for Fall! I love leopard print so I'm always happy to see it everywhere too, but I'm totally surprised by how excited I am about polka dots! I am particularly in love with polka dots in black and white or off-white and navy and white or off-white. I have a few little items on my wishlist that includes this ring, this blouse, these tights, and this cardigan . Are you loving polka dots too?! What polka dot items have you bought/plan on buying for Fall? Here's a little shopping guide in case you need a little inspiration! xo

Fall 2011: Seeing Spots!! by lillyphunq featuring a retro bikini

Fall 2011: Pantone's Top 10 Colors for Fall

2011-09-07T20:26:00.000-04:00

As fall approaches I am once again inspired by and excited about Pantone's Top 10 Color Selections for the season, this time for Fall! So since I had so much fun putting together posts inspired by Pantone's Top 10 Colors for Spring, I will be putting together a post for each of the 9 new colors (see above!). I will not be creating a new post for Pantone's Honeysuckle 18-2120 since I already created a post inspired by the Color of the Year earlier this year, you can see that post here! Here's a little shopping guide I put together inspired by all the colors just to give you a little taste! You can click on the image to shop the items! So...do you think you have a favorite yet? Do tell!! xo

Fall 2011: Pantone's Top 10 Colors for Fall by lillyphunq featuring an orange dress

This Week: The Unofficial End of Summer

2011-09-04T01:25:00.000-04:00

photo from Florida International Magazine by Brendan Burdzinski

And just like that Summer is almost over! I know we still have about 20 more days left, but it always feels like Summer is over after Labor Day, doesn't it? I will admit, I've been looking forward to Fall but now that Summer is really almost over I'm kind of sad that it went by so fast. Has the weather started to feel crisp and cool where you live? It's hard to feel like it's actually Fall until November or December because it's sooo hot here:( I'm sorry I've been missing in action around here, I've taken a few days off to refresh and regroup before starting my new job on Tuesday. I have not done much, some shopping, some short visits with friends, time spent lounging and a little bit spent cleaning and baking. While not the most exciting mini-break, laying low and taking it easy is just perfect sometimes. We tried to squeeze in a little Summertime fun today and spent a couple of hours at the beach but it was cloudy and there were jelly fish in the water so not the best beach day:( Will try again on Monday! What are your end-of-summer/Labor Day plans? Are you ready for Fall?! So this week...

1. Paris vs New York! I've seen these lovely images floating around pinterest and blog land for a while, have you seen these? Aren't they clever? Well Penguin has put them all together in a book! Going to the top of my wishlist!

2. I want so many Butter London nail polish colors! I'm especially in love with Wallis , British Racing Green, Henley Regatta, and Bluey for Fall! I'm going to get gel nails this week. I hear there are very limited colors so I don't know that I'll have anything this exciting just yet.

3. Just found another Hemingway book to read! It's The Letters of Ernest Hemingway, I found it while flipping through the latest issue of Matchbook Magazine.

4. Have you voted for Lilly Pond(ering) blog? My blog is a finalist in CBS Local-Miami's Most Valuable Blogger Awards 2011! Please take a minute to vote!! And since you're allowed to vote once/day any extra votes you can squeeze in are greatly appreciated!!

5. Check in this week to see posts I will begin putting together inspired by Pantone's Top 10 Color Selections for Fall 2011!!

Have a great long weekend!!! xo

This Week: The Dog Days of Summer

2011-08-29T00:19:00.001-04:00

"Stoney" collage by Michael Keck

I am so glad the week is over. This was a tough one, but we've made it through and I am so happy to move forward! So a few months ago I wrote about my dog, Tracy being diagnosed with cancer. Well this past week we made a very difficult decision and had Tracy's leg amputated on Friday. The tumor had grown and was growing up his arm and it would have been cruel to let a perfectly happy, hungry, playful dog be in pain and discomfort. The night after surgery was tough, I felt awful for him and even had moments of terrible regret but at 5:30am Tracy stood up and walked outside and I am so relieved that just like that he is up again! Dogs are so incredibly resilient and I admire how well he's dealt with this disease and I am happy to say that as of Friday, after the loss of one of his legs, Tracy is cancer free! We don't know how long he will be since cancer usually metastasizes but we've read about several cases of dogs with Osteosarcoma who have lived another year or two after amputation. and considering the fact that we were told we might lose Tracy by October, we're happy to have any extra time with him at all and are especially happy that the pain and discomfort are gone. We have such an amazing group of friends and family, thank you all so much for caring so much about Tracy! So this week...

1. One of my lovely best friends turned 30!! Happy Birthday, E!!!

2. I completed my last full week at my job! My last day is Tuesday and I am very happy and excited about having a new beginning! But not before a couple of days off to relax!

3. Fashion's Night Out is almost here again! Are any of you excited about this event/planning to participate/attend? I had a nice, girly time last year and am hoping to go again. You can find out what's going on for Fashion's Night Out near you right here!

4. Women are eating their placentas?! I don't know how I feel about this! I mean I don't think I would ever but I'm not completely horrified, just a little grossed out (hope nobody is offended by me saying this). How do you feel about this? Have any of you ever considered this as part of your birth plan?

5. Because I enjoyed putting together posts inspired by Pantone's Color Selections for Spring 2011, I am going to begin putting together posts for each of Pantone's Top 10 Color Selections for Fall 2011! Coming soon...

Hope you have an amazing week!!

PS: Wear your white summery clothes this week because Labor Day is almost here!! Do you follow this "rule"?

Outfit to Outfitted: Warming up to Fall

2011-08-23T22:35:00.001-04:00

Outfit: Look from Marc by Marc Jacobs Fall 2011 NYC fashion show via Harpers Bazaar

Outfitted: Living Room designed by Jonathan Adler, photo by William Waldron via Elle Decor

This Week: Pressing Buttons

2011-08-22T12:43:00.000-04:00

photo by me

So we're working on making our own tufted headboard using this tutorial! Unfortunately, due to some small speed bumps we've encountered along the way (i.e. making buttons without a kit because the fabric is too thick) we will not finish tonight. And thanks to this tutorial we found a way to make it work! I'll post photos of our new headboard as soon as it's done! Once we complete this project it will be the only one on the list of things we wanted to get done around the house this summer. Fortunately for us, Summer isn't over yet! So this week...

1. My blog was nominated for CBS-local Miami Most Valuable Blogger! Please take a minute to vote for my blog here. Oh, and you can vote every day so if you can vote again!! Thanks:)

2. Speaking of voting, Daily Candy's 2011 Start Small, Go Big Contest is open for voting! They narrowed it down to 3 finalists per category. I voted! One of my favorites was tifamade! I love her vision of girls delivering her sandwiches and cakes on pink bicycles all over the world! I'd love to see that too! You can vote here!!

3. I often fantasize about having a dish washer. I know it may seem silly but since our 1940's apartment does not have any room for a dishwasher it is something I will not have til we move (some day). So you can imagine how excited I was to see this product!! It's a sink that doubles as a dishwasher!! I don't think this will work either since my base cabinet and countertop are not that deep but still, we're getting closer to a dishwasher that might work and fit!! yay!!

4. Just when the cupcake craze seems to be fading here in the use it is just getting started in Paris! Aren't they beautiful?! Even cupcakes in Paris have that special je ne sais quois!!

5. This looks like a cool event for designers!! Are any of you planning on attending?!

Have a great week!!! xo

Color Stories: L’été en Indochine

2011-08-17T23:59:00.001-04:00

photo from ad for Barbara Barry's Indochine Collection for Kravet, Conical Asian Hat from American Apparel, Ruched Bandeu one-piece from Delia's , Lantern Moon Indochine Bamboo Root Basket, color palette by me

The last weeks of Summer are upon us and just like that another season is almost past. This color story feels like a nice transition from Summer to Fall and I absolutely love this picture! I've never visited the Indochinese Peninsula, have you? This picture has inspired one more trip on my list of places I suddenly want to travel to soon. I regret that as excited as I've been about Summer I feel like I didn't actually get to do enough of all the summery things I wanted to do. Before it ends I want to host at least one more Summer BBQ with friends, spend at least one more lazy day at the beach, and complete a couple of the little projects we've been meaning to do around the apartment. What are your end-of-summer plans/goals? Are you excited about Fall too?

When one door opens...

2011-08-16T23:49:00.000-04:00

photos by me

I have been obsessing with doors for a while now. I particularly enjoy photographing them and can easily spend a whole afternoon busy appreciating every door I walk by. I even enjoy browsing through other peoples photos of doors. These are just a few of the doors I photographed during my trip to New York City in May. Perhaps I've been secretly hoping for a strange/new door to open for me, I don't know. Well today, a door officially opened for me and I am so excited! I have accepted a position at a new company and I cannot believe how amazing it feels to make a change! Usually change is terrifying (okay so maybe it's still a little terrifying) but I feel excited and ready to embrace this change! My husband and sister took me out for dinner to celebrate! We enjoyed a delicious meal from the Miami Spice menu of the 660 at the Angler's located in the lovely Angler's Boutique Resort. After several Juan Collins (soooo yummy!) cocktails I am tipsy and content and hope that you are having a lovely evening too. Good night!! xo

This Week: Pretty in Pink

2011-08-13T03:04:00.000-04:00

photo by me

Look at the lovely present I received from my sales representative at Knoll Textiles! The nail polish color is called Cato Pink. It was named after the Cato fabric pattern in the photograph in celebration of Cato's 50th Birthday! I think it's such a clever, creative way to celebrate a textile's birthday, isn't it? Speaking of nail polish, I absolutely love Glitter Guide's idea of having a girly manicure tea party! Does that sound like fun to you?! Have you tried an ombre manicure yet? I really think I'd like to host one but wonder if anyone will actually be interested in attending. What girly things do you do with your girlfriends? I am looking for something that does not require as much commitment as a book club but still requires quality girl time that we can all pencil in on a regular basis, any ideas? So this week...

1. Last week one of my favorite blogs, Oh Joy featured a Tortellini with Lemon and Dill recipe by Cooking Channel's Kelsey Nixon and I spent all weekend wishing the recipe was available on her site so I could make it. And this week, ta-dah! It's up on her site and I am so going to make it!! Doesn't it sound delicious?! Please let me know if you make it!

2. I think plastic is fantastic and was so excited to read about the Plastique Ludique exhibition at Les Arts Decoratifs! If only I could make my way to Paris to see it!

3. Missoni's collection for Target will be available in exactly one month! Here's a sneak peek of the collection. What do you think?

4. There isn't really a fall season in Miami:( It's quite sad since it's my favorite season and I get all excited about Fall Fashion and the idea of wearing sweaters and blazers come September but can't do so comfortably in 80-something degree weather (or hotter!). But I am in love with this cardigan (among other pieces) from Banana Republic's new Mad Men Collection and am going to get one even if I can't comfortably wear it until winter.

Hope you have an amazing weekend!! xo

Color Stories: Black (and white and gray all over)

2011-08-09T00:45:00.004-04:00

photo by Rico Puhlmann 1959 via T Magazine, Pagoda Umbrella via Polyvore, Fedora via Forever 21, dog leash via Baxter Boo, Compostable Picnic Basket via Charitable Gift Giving, Trench coat via Old Navy, color palette by me

This Week: Clouds and Marshmallows

2011-08-08T01:11:00.002-04:00

photo from sevenspoons on flickr via weheartit

Have been so busy that I'm late to post about this week! I'm not the craftiest person, but find some pleasure in sitting calmly making stuff with my hands. Would love a space dedicated to crafting and/or working with a nice big table and lots of space to store all the supplies needed to make things. Without a space it's just a big mess and while enjoyable it kind of becomes chaotic when there is no room to seperate a project from one's day to day life (i.e. my dining table is my craft/work space). Do any of you have a crafting/work room/home office to craft/work in? I have painted and cut and stamped and hole-punched and I even made clouds (check out a tutorial from ohdeedoh here!) to hang above the candy buffet I put together for my sister-in-law's baby shower. So this week...
1. I've been wanting to make homemade marshmallows ever since my lovely lunch at Daniel Boulud's fabulous DB Bistro Moderne. The ones I had there were orange-blossom flavored and amazing but I still haven't gotten around to making them. I'm inspired all over again after coming across this recipe for Neopolitan Marshmallows on pinterest. Don't they look and sound delicious?! Have any of you ever made marshmallows?
2. I got to spend some quality time with my childhood best friend and her husband and 2 lovely girls. I absolutely love seeing her, and love that she is such a great mother, especially since I've known her since we were 7 years old and it still seems surreal that she is all grown up with a family!
3. My friend and former Professor, Tracey shared this video on facebook a while back, have been meaning to share it. Isn't it beautiful?!
4. Am watching Project Runway and loving it even though I don't yet have a favorite designer. Design Star on the other hand...is it me or are they all kind of lame? I usually always have a favorite (and they win!) but this time, eh...I'm not loving anyone so much. Which is a shame because I was kind of excited about the show's new season since I loved Emily Henderson so much last season. Are any of you watching? Do you have a favorite on either show?

Have an amazing week!! xo

Color Stories: Salmon-Strawberry

2011-08-04T00:56:00.000-04:00

Image/Look from Anthropologie's August 2011 Catalog, Strawberries via Bon Chic Bon Genre , Color Palette by me

This Week: Cleaning Up the Chaos

2011-07-31T02:01:00.000-04:00

photo of the London Eye by me

I don't know how it happens but things accumulate and before I know it it's time for some heavy duty cleaning, organizing and purging! Does this happen to you guys too? I am a fairly organized person and find that between being busy leaves room for disorganization. I have not gotten around to a deep cleaning/organizing of our apartment as I am very busy crafting for my sister-in-laws baby shower but I did manage to finally clean my desk at work. Our office is complete chaos! We have piles and piles of magazines and samples everywhere! It was not an easy task but after almost 4hours my desk is clean and organized (never mind the rest of the office) and I couldn't be happier about it! Fellow designers, do you work in highly organized or disorganized offices? How do you manage your pending project samples, plans, magazines, catalogs, etc.? So this week...
1. 5 years ago today I had just gotten back to Strasbourg, France after about 5 days in London:(
2. I have been making paper pinwheels for my sister-in-law's baby shower. Check out this great, easy tutorial on how to make them!!
3. The July/August issue of Rue Magazine is up! Flip through it here!
4. I was a huge fan of Barbie when I was a little girl, pretty obsessed really so I was so excited to read that Barbie's Dream House is being revamped! The American Institute of Architects (AIA) launched a competition for the design of Barbie's new digs, see the designs and vote for your favorite here!
5. So out of nowhere friendship bracelets are all the rage again!! I have my eye on a few favorites to buy since I'm usually too lazy to DIY but this DIY Friendship Bracelet from Honestly...WTF found via pinterest makes it look easy enough! Will you be making your own?!

Hope your Sunday is a fun day!! xo

Color Stories: The Fiestas of San Fermin

2011-07-27T23:43:00.002-04:00

photo from Missy Rayder: Muse Spring 2010 via Fashionising.com, Leather Wine Bottle from Wine Botas, poster via feriadeltoro.net

I've put together a little color story inspired by The Sun Also Rises and Ernest Hemingway's simple yet colorful descriptions of his experience at the Fiestas of San Fermin in 1925. And while I don't think I am yet willing to stomach a bullfight, I do think I'd like to have a little wine from a leather wine bottle and perhaps someday witness the Fiestas of San Fermin from a balcony as he sometimes did. Have any of you ever been? Have you ran with the bulls? It's incredible how reading about Hemingway's fascination with bullfighting has piqued my interest in something I had never really had any interest in. It's amazing how inspiring anything can be if you're reading/hearing/learning about it from a true aficionado.

Outfit to Outfitted: Ladylike in Orange & Animal Prints

2011-07-27T01:10:00.000-04:00

Outfit

Lady Like look via Shopbop.com

Outfitted

Room from home of the late Mary Jane Pool via Style Redux

This Week: The Sun Also Rises

2011-07-24T20:14:00.000-04:00

photo of Ernest Hemingway and friends in Pamplona, Spain during the Fiesta San Fermin in 1925 (the experience The Sun Also Rises is based on...except he omitted his wife, Hadley from the story in his book) via JFK Presidential Library and Museum

And so the obsession with Ernest Hemingway continues! I meant to start reading A Moveable Feast this week but was unable to get my hands on a copy (until yesterday, can't wait to start reading it:) and so I started reading The Sun Also Rises. It is interesting to read since I read about that trip and the real characters who joined him while reading The Paris Wife. I have never had much of an interest in Bull Fighting, happen to find it quite cruel, really but somehow he has even managed to make that experience seem interesting. Have/are any of you read/reading these books? So this week...

1. I learned about an amazing resort in Acapulco, Mexico from Mrs. Lilien. I soooo want to go spend a few relaxing days at Hotel Boca Chica! Have any of you been?!

2. Happy to read that I'm not the only one obsessing about the 1920's, Read about The Great Gatsby inspired designs here!!

3. Reading about the movie Shag on Vogue's website brought back so many memories!! My best friend since childhood and I watched this movie over and over when we were young girls! Love to know that we had such great taste;) Next thing you know someone will be raving about Welcome Home Roxy Carmichael, another one of our (many) favorites! ha!

4. My friend, Yelsi of Tigerlily Dream has wonderful new designs in her shop! I am especially loving the Pretty Skinny Bracelets and Necklace and Pop Rocks (what a great name!!). Take a little peek here!

5. Am excited about Season 9 of Project Runway!! It premieres this Thursday, July 28th on Lifetime! You can check out the contestants portfolio here.

Hope your week and weekend (sorry I'm late:) has been lovely! Have a great week!! xo

Currently Loving: Marnie's Favorite Things for Summer

2011-07-20T00:30:00.000-04:00

I was named after my mom who was named after the Alfred Hitchcock movie Marnie. The protagonist in this movie is played by Tippie Hedrin. The Marnie in the movie, is a thief, compulsive liar, and has a deep rooted fear of the color red amongst other psychosis’….nice person to be named after huh!? THANKS MOM!! Thank God I can say that I am nothing like Marnie in the movie but am a busy mommy to beautiful 2 year old Mia, a wife and psychology student with too many passions to count. I love my family, the Lord, fashion, dressing people, helping others, medicine, art, sports and this list goes on. My fashion icons are my mom and surprisingly enough my hubby. My mother is the most amazing dresser I know and not only do I respect her fashion opinion but I look to her for advice on just about anything and everything. My husband is my second fashion icon because prior to meeting him I felt as though everything needed to match perfectly, but he has opened my eyes to the world of mismatched beauty. My celebrity fashion icon is probably Blake Lively, not even the paparazzi can catch her looking bad. She is, in a perfect world, my style twin.
I created my facebook boutique, Mia Mor because I wanted to make some extra money on the side but didn’t have time to fit work into my busy schedule. It allowed me to have that extra income and fulfill one of my many passions all while doing the most important things, being a wife, mommy, and student. The name was inspired by my 2 year old daughter, Mia and a sort of play on words… Mi Amor…get it? Mia Mor boutique also offers boutique parties, fashion consultations, and at-home personal shopping for any occasion, trip, or event. Our catch phrase and motto is "God bless and happy shopping" two things that no one should live without!

1. Raw gems: Especially raw turquoise. Wear it on your arm, finger, neck, ears, or waist…it always looks fabulous with a crisp white maxi or a red romper. Wear it on the beach or out to dinner.

2. Tous Ganesh collection: Perfect pairing of Tous and color!!! I’m not a big fan of the evil eye, hand, and elephant craze going on right now…but this little elephant I will let slide.

3. Shoe Clips!!!! Love them and the best place to get them is at Absolutely Audrey.These are any girl’s best friend. Whether you are a girl on a budget and want a new pair of shoes but don’t have the cash to dish out or you're just trying to jazz up your oldest most treasured heels, comfort first ladies! They have everything from Twiggy inspired shoe clips to bridal collections for the most chic brides. These shoe clips are an affordable way to go green and reuse your old shoes!

4. Ark & Co. Clothing Line:
(which you can find at Mia Mor boutique). This line of retro-indie cute vintage- inspired clothing is the epitome of what I believe is perfect style. Not only is the fabric perfect for everybody type but the fit of these clothes is un-paralleled. This company is based out of Los Angeles and knows what women want. I’m a sucker for the perfect dress up and dress down dress. I want to be able to go from work to a nice sit-down dinner in my favorite restaurant and still feel fabulous. These are a couple of my faves, perfect to dress up or dress down. All you need to do is pin up your hair, put on some red lipstick, and carry a pair of Absolutely Audrey shoe clips in your bag and you're good to go with a completely different outfit in under 30 seconds!

5. Own your body and practice walking in heels: My last and most important obsession right now. The proper heel strut can miraculously pick up your butt, make you stick out your chest and flex muscles in your legs that you didn’t even know you had. The power of a perfect heel strut encompassed with a self- confident woman surpasses all plastic surgeries and creams. Check out the video below for some tips on the perfect heel strut! And always remember the key to happiness is feeling good in your own skin and not wanting more than what the good Lord intended. God bless and happy shopping!

Color Stories: Summer Neutrals

2011-07-18T01:09:00.000-04:00

photo of La Petit France by me, Look from Gorjana's Summer lookbook on Shopbop, Etcetera: Creating Beautiful Interiors With The Things You Love via Anthropologie

This Week: Loving Ernest & Blueberry Coffee

2011-07-17T01:53:00.000-04:00

photo by me

It's amazing how much one movie can inspire such a fun reading streak! I reread The Great Gatsby and am now reading The Paris Wife. I am loving Ernest Hemingway! Mostly because I am reading all about him from his wife, Hadley's point-of-view and she was madly in love with him, but still, I had never taken such a liking to him! I love that they both called each other Tiny and Tatie and he called her Kitty and Cat and they called their son Bumby. I love that they were on great adventures even after having "settled down" and had a child. And I love to hear all about the people they met and conversations they had. Next on my list is A Moveable Feast a book published by Hemingway's fourth wife after his death that is all about his time in Paris during the 1920's so it'll be cool to read about the experience from his perspective. Do any of you have any favorite books by any of the literary expatriates that you want to recommend? What are you reading this summer? Please send recommendations my way, am reading through my selections so fast! So this week...

1. We spent a lovely evening with friends! We BBQ'd, we talked, we went for a nice walk! So nice to spend some quality time with great friends, isn't it?!

2. I found this cool little shop, Write with Moxie on etsy! Great gift idea for creative friends + I love the word moxie!!

3. I love the design of this new hotel in Nolita!

4. Are you watching the new season of Secrets from a Stylist?! I like Emily, and it's always fun to see her work! Watch on Saturday nights at 9pm EST or DVR it!!

5. My sister brought us a bag of New England Coffee's Blueberry Cobbler coffee! One word: AMAZING!! You must try it!

Hope your Sunday is great and feels very looooong!

Color Stories: Lemon & Lime

2011-07-12T21:43:00.000-04:00

Cut to the Chase Bib Necklace by Kate Spade, Look from Anthropologie's

July 2011 Catalog, Mizz Mooz 'Salima' T-strap sandal via Nordstrom,

Tata Harper Restorative Moisturizer, Knoll Textiles 1945- 2010 via Yale University Press,

Small Kelly Green Cake Stand via afabulousfete on Etsy, Yellow Wishbone Chair via DWR,

scallop pattern by me

Outfit to Outfitted: Salmon & Turquoise

2011-07-11T23:11:00.000-04:00

Outfit

photo from Anthopologie's July 2011 Catalog

Outfitted

photo from the third issue of Lonny Magazine

This week: Literary expatriates and preparing for Bastille Day

2011-07-09T10:23:00.000-04:00

photo by me

I finished reading The Great Gatsby and even watched the movie (the 1974 Robert Redford version)! It was an enjoyable re-read and I had never seen the movie which was great except for the cheesy twinkle effects everywhere (I mean actual stars in people's eyes ha!). Both left me wishing for fabulous summer parties and wishing that I could buy an entire fancy wardrobe for summer has gotten a lot more casual since the 1920's. Bastille Day or La Fête Nationale is coming up on July 14th! In the spirit of missing France (soooo much), and having a summer reading list that consists of books either by or about some of the Literary Expatriates in Paris in the 1920's I think I want to learn how to make a Croque Monsieur! Here's a video cooking lesson by French food blogger Kerry Saretsky! Daily Candy sent it out this week along with a link to her wonderful site, you must check it out here! I also want to make Pink Provençal Sangria! So this week...

1. Madewell opened up nearby!! If you're in Miami you can visit the new store on Lincoln Road in Miami Beach! Here is the address and a map.
2. We are in love with Bernie's LA Cafe! It's not new but for some reason or other we just got around to trying it last week and have already visited 3 times! It's Chef Bernie Matz (of Books & Books) restaurant. The menu is healthy fare with some cuban twists, soooo tasty!
3. Check out the new fiat!
4. Last night at dinner I was complaining that I never got to go away to summer camp as a kid and had never been to the Hamptons. My sister insisted that there is no way I can pass for 16 so summer camp was out of the question and then I came across this article about Ruschmeyer's in Montauk NY not really camp and not really the Hamptons but pretty close!! I want to go!! Did any of you get to go away to summer camp as kids? Was it as wonderful as I've always imagined?
5. The Design Sponge Book, Design Sponge at Home is available for pre-order! Grace is not stopping by Miami for her book tour but you can check if your city is on the list here as well. Congratulations to Grace and Design Sponge!!

Hope you have the BEST weekend!! xo

One Accessory Said to the Other: We're a couple of basket cases!

2011-07-05T21:17:00.000-04:00

The Fashion Accessory

Tory Burch Crecent Large Straw Tote via Net-a-porter

The Home Accessory

Ikat Woven Collection from West Elm

This Week: Looking forward to a long lazy weekend!

2011-07-02T02:12:00.000-04:00

photos by me

Yay for a long weekend!! Am so looking forward to lazy days with a little beach time, some reading, quality time with friends and family, some grilling, sweet cocktails, fireworks and naps! What are your plans for the holiday weekend?! To think that this time, five years ago I was preparing to leave to Europe for 3 months, excited about new adventures and getting away. If I could relive that summer over and over each year I totally would:( So this week...

1. We broke in the new BBQ and had a lovely dinner with our neighbors! They moved away this morning, it seems all our favorite neighbors are always transient. It's still cool to get to know people a little, even if just for a little while, isn't it?!

2. One of my best friends and her husband found out they are having a baby boy!! I am so excited for them and can't wait to meet their boy:)

3. I just got back from watching Beginners ! It was wonderful and funny and devastatingly sad all at once. I miss my dad so much right now:( Despite my sad spin on it, it's really wonderful, I definitely recommend it.

4. Am dying to subscribe to Birch Box. I learned about it on The Glitter Guide and think it's a marvelous idea! For just $10/month you get a goodie box filled with beauty samples every month! Doesn't that sound awesome?! Are any of you members?!

5. Inspired by the movie Midnight in Paris, I have started rereading The Great Gatsby! I hope to read most of it at the beach this weekend (if the weather cooperates:). I want to watch the movie when I'm done (I've never watched it) and just learned today that there is a remake in the works starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Carey Mulligan, so glad I'm revisiting! Next on my summer reading list is The Paris Wife !

Hope you have a wonderful long holiday weekend!! xo

Currently Loving: Rope

2011-06-29T23:43:00.000-04:00

1. Michael Kors Espadrilles via Shopstyle 2. Navy Blue Skinny Rope Belt via Topshop 3. Turk's Head Rope Bracelet by Tanya Aguiniga via A+R Store 4. Arteriors Glass/Rope Cloche via Candelabra 5. Roped-in Tote via Anthropologie 6. Ropeball Door Stop via ThisNext 7. Maritime Rope Headband via Forever 21 8. DIY Rope Necklace via Miss Vinyl Ahoy 9. Decorative Woven Buoy via Williams Sonoma Home

Eco Pavilion by MMX

Atelier 688 Original Rope Lights 2 via Etsy

Staircase by Thom Filicia via House Beautiful

Sake Bar designed by Architects Eat via The Cool Hunter

David Stark Rope Bowl from West Elm

Outfit to Outfitted: Dark Blues and Tan

2011-06-27T00:27:00.001-04:00

Outfit

Look from Rebecca Taylor Fall 2011 at New York Fashion Week via Marie Claire

Outfitted

Living Room designed by Todd Romano, photo by William Waldron via Elle Decor

This Week: Summer is suddenly promising to be a whole lot sweeter and refreshing!

2011-06-23T18:52:00.000-04:00

photos by me

I've had the loveliest day! I spent the afternoon with one of my best friends and I had lunch with two of my best friends! Quality time with girlfriends is always a treat on a weekday:) And I got the loveliest birthday present too! Crate & Barrels Ice Pop Molds, a Popsicle Recipe book and a Popsicle kitchen towel! I am so excited about making Popsicles, all of the recipes sound delicious and refreshing!! I think homemade Popsicles will be the perfect treat on these hot and humid Summer afternoons! The recipe book she gave me even has cocktail pops recipes...Mmmmm:) So this week...

1. My lovely friend, Kaelsie has shared five things she is loving for Summer with us!! Read the post and see her beautiful watercolor paintings here.

2. Am excited about a new restaurant opening on South Beach!! Jeff McInnis the Top Chef who left Gigi is opening his own restaurant, Yardbird Southern Table & Bar. Can't wait for Fall to indulge in some Southern delight!!

3. Oh to spend the weekends in East Hampton preparing delicious meals and decorating! Check out the designers of Roman and Williams (responsible designing wonderful spots like the Ace Hotel and the Boom Boom Room) Montauk, NY weekend retreat here. Be sure to check out the Hibiscus Flower Punch recipe at the end of the article!!

4. We went on a lovely double date with friends! We started off the evening at a gallery in Downtown Miami followed by a lovely dinner at a wonderful little restaurant called Soya & Pomodoro! The place is great, as soon as you walk in you just feel like you're somewhere else, on vacation, away! Nothing beats an evening of art, delicious food and great company:)

5. So excited to go see Conan O'Brien Can't Stop a documentary about Conan after he left NBC!

Have an amazing weekend!! Indulge yourself with delicious, cold treats to stay cool! xo

Currently Loving: Kaelsie Saravia's Favorite Things for Summer 2011

2011-06-22T23:39:00.002-04:00

Kaelsie Saravia is a young designer and manager at Surface Workshop, a sustainable custom furniture company in Miami, FL. A designer, a bicycle-riding enthusiast, an artist, a muralist, and a marathon runner, Kaelsie is always up to fun, creative things and is sooo talented (look at her lovely watercolors below)! Here she shares five of her favorite things for summer...

Given that I work at my woodshop/studio without adequate air conditioning, it always feels like summer. Luckily, all the sweating and hard work comes with much fun and play. Here are the things that help me stay happy and fresh in the summer:

1. Hand-painted Espadrilles

Espadrilles or alpargatas, have made a big comeback. I make friends bring them to me from Spain or South America because I prefer the kind that are handmade. For a pair of black alpargatas from Uruguay, I decided to hand paint my own designs onto them. You can use acrylic paint and a thin paint brush or fabric sprays to create whimsical designs, colorful stripes, or any pattern you can think of. The best thing about these are that they keep your feet cool and there is no need for socks! I like to wear the flat model for day and the platform heel model for night or special occasions.

2. Picnic by bike

The two loveliest activities for summer combined: picnic and bike ride with friends. Forget soups and warm food. For a summer picnic you have to pack cold treats that are lightweight. My dream menu would include the exotic salad, blackberry tarts, and at least a dozen macaroons from Buena VistaDeli, some champagne in a can like the Sofia Mini 4-pack, a small ipod and speakers, and my friends!

3. Fabric jewelry from Tigerlily Dream I am convinced that it gets a little hotter outside every day. While conventional jewelry feels too sticky, fabric covered jewelry feels lightweight and fresh against my skin. I am in love with all the necklaces my sister is making for her Tigerlily Dreams accessory line. So inspired that I am making some creations of my own and joined the creative team! I can throw on a plain t-shirt, shorts, and a colorful fabric necklace for an effortless, but cute outfit. All my chunky bead and chain jewelry will stay put away until fall, because this summer I will be sticking with fabric and wood pieces!

4. Rubber rain boots and bright umbrellas

I got these super-utilitarian rubber rainboots on my trip to Honduras recently (for $6 U.S.) and I have a collection of cute umbrellas that include pieces by Marimekko, Lilly Pulitzer, and Marc Jacobs. I look out my window every morning hoping to see rain or at least some dark clouds so I can bust out my cheerful rain gear. So far it’s been mostly sunny. But, the day that it pours, you might see me splashing around in big puddles or riding my bike to work holding a huge, strawberry and polka dot umbrella. If we had cooler weather, you better believe I would also throw on a bright rain coat and funky hat. But, it's too hot to do that here (and I speak from experience on this one! The boots are hot enough, I carry a pair of flip flops in my bag in case the weather suddenly goes back to perfect I can change.

5. Summer Music Mix Summer for me also means being very active. Whether I am running, biking, or walking; I always have a soundtrack to go with me. Lately, I am loving:

Ceu

Antibalas

3 Na Massa

Radiohead's King of Limbs

Download's of the weekly disco show "Vamos a La Playa"

Cut Copy's Zonoscope

The XX

I'm wishing you a fabulous and fun summer! And remember, sweating is inevitable, just be sure to look fresh and smile so no one notices the drip or your scent, rather the radiant glow you are emanating!

Kaelsie

Summer 2011: Welcome, Summer!!

2011-06-20T00:03:00.001-04:00

Cover of January 1952 issue of Harpers Bazaar via Matchbook Magazine's blog, photo and recipe of homemade snow cones via My Restaurant Guru blog, Evelyn Maillot swimsuit from Anthropologie

Summertime is here!!! Yay!! This year is going by sooo fast, isn't it?! This summer I plan to: have some bbq lunches/dinners with friends, take advantage of the fact that the beach is only four blocks away and go at least once per week, treat myself to delicious, summery goodness (i.e. fruity desserts, gelato, snow cones), escape the heat and go to the movies on hot, humid afternoons, get some projects done around the apartment, and find the perfect, not-too-sweet Rum Punch recipe! What are your Summer plans?! Hope it's off to a great start! xo

This Week: So long Spring!!

2011-06-17T18:17:00.001-04:00

photo of Proseco with Watermelon Sorbet and Lobster Sandwiches from Food Fashion Friends by Fleur Wood

Can you believe Spring is almost over?! I love Spring, I really do! Don't get me wrong, I'm excited about Summer, it's great, but as I've already started to remember, Miami's Summers are soooo HOT! Here's to the last days of Spring! So this week...

1. Happy Father's Day to all the wonderful Dads!! Be sure to spend time with them and treat them to some quality time and a little something special:) If you're stuck on what to get your dad/husband/brother/friend perhaps my Father's Day Gift Guide might help!

2. I Learned about a new amazing little spot in Miami!!! It's Chef Michelle Bernstein's latest project, Crumb on Parchment (isn't that the loveliest name?!) in the Miami Design District. They serve coffee and sandwiches and teas and offer the most lovely array of baked goodness!! With it's shabby chic inspired aesthetic of mismatched chairs and sofas in the most unexpected spot, it's the most pleasant little escape from the daily grind, check it out if you can!

3. We're heading out to lovely Palmetto Bay to partake in some Miami Food Truck action with the family!! There's plenty of other Food Truck spots tonight, find them here!

4. Don't forget to shop Tigerlily Dream on Etsy and receive 20% off your purchase by entering Coupon Code: HAPPY at checkout through Sunday, June 19th, 2011!

5. I want to try this Grilled Goat Cheese Crostini with a tangle of marinated roasted peppers recipe (found on pinterest) for our Father's Day gathering(s)!!

Have a lovely weekend and squeeze your dads tight!! xo

Color Stories: Melon Pink(s) & Gray(s)

2011-06-15T21:06:00.001-04:00

images from left to right: warped asterisk pattern by me, Fashion Academy 1933 vintage book, Space Travel by Lulu Wolf , melon pinks and gray palette by me

GIVEAWAY: And the winner of the lovely Tigerlily Dream BON BON Necklace is...

2011-06-14T08:32:00.000-04:00

and the winner is...

Lissette!!

Thank you to all of you who entered to win! And a BIG thank you to Yelsi Saravia of Tigerlily Dream for sponsoring the first ever giveaway on Lilly Pond(ering)!! Head on over to Tigerlily Dream to shop the rest of Tigerlily Dream's lovely accessory collections and receive a 20% discount now through Sunday, June 19th, 2011 just by entering Coupon Code: HAPPY at check out!! Lissette, please email your mailing address to me at lillypondblog@gmail.com

Have a lovely day!! xo

Gift Guide: Father's Day 2011

2011-06-12T23:20:00.000-04:00

Gift Guide: Father's Day 2011 by lillyphunq on Polyvore.com
*Click on the photo to shop the items:)

This Week: Visiting 1920's Paris

2011-06-10T00:00:00.002-04:00

photo via Walrus Magazine

How was your week?! It was a pretty exciting week, it went by so fast! I'm designing a Pent House in this building and spent the week preparing for our presentation. So after an exhausting couple of days, I was happy to spend a day of leisure with a friend who I recently reunited with that up until then I had not seen since Elementary School! We had a lovely lunch and went to watch Woody Allen's latest film, Midnight in Paris. It was soooo great! I walked out feeling as though I had visited Paris....in the 1920's!! Now I'm inspired to read Hemingway and Fitzgerald and maybe this book to learn all about the time they spent in Paris. I want to listen to Cole Porter and Josephine Baker and to be in Paris again, hearing accordions in the background as I walk down the street! I don't want to give too much away but you absolutely must go see it! So this week...
1. Our friends gave us a bunch of Indian River oranges so I put them to good use and baked this Orange Cake recipe with them! I used the cakes to build a trifle with berries and the cream cheese-whipped cream from this Martha Stewart recipe (see step 2), it was sooo yummy:)
2. I fell in love with the Cesca, Elbow dining chairs and am torn between those and the Wishbone and the Era chairs as my current favorite! Which one do you like best?!
3. Design Miami Basel opens in Basel Switzerland next week!
4. Friends with You's Rainbow City opened in the lovely High Line Park in NYC!
5. Tigerlily Dream is sponsoring a giveaway on Lilly Pond(ering) blog!! Click here to enter to win this lovely necklace! Be sure to leave a comment to officially submit your entry to win!!

Have a relaxing, lovely weekend!! xo

Currently Loving: Candy Colors

2011-06-08T00:40:00.001-04:00

cinderella shoes by Kartell via Nylon Blog, Button Candies via Bento Box Gifts, Sephora by Opi Digital Diva Collection via Dazzle n Sparkle the cosmetic journal

GIVEAWAY: Enter to win a Tigerlily Dream BON BON Necklace!!

2011-06-06T00:24:00.003-04:00

My lovely friend Yelsi Saravia is the shop owner of Tigerlily Dream an etsy shop where you will find beautiful, unique, handmade fashion accessories she designs and makes herself. Yelsi has offered to sponsor the first ever giveaway on Lilly Pond(ering) Blog!!!! She is giving away the Marimekko BonBon Necklace from Tigerlily Dream's Bonbon Collection that I featured here.

How to enter: All you have to do is visit and "like" Tigerlily Dream's Facebook Page and/or Lilly Pond(ering) Blog's Facebook Page then come right back here and leave a comment letting us know you've done so and your name on Facebook (if different than what appears on your google profile). If you already like us on Facebook, just leave a comment below to guarantee your entry into the giveaway! Be sure to enter between now and Monday, June 13th! A random entry will be selected and the lucky winner will be announced on Tuesday, June 14th. Good Luck!!

*If you have trouble leaving a comment, go ahead and leave it as anonymous and include your name/email address in the body of your comment:)

*Sorry, shipping is only available to addresses in the continental US

About the designer: Yelsi Saravia is one of the most creative, stylish ladies I know. She is a talented Interior Designer, a wonderful mother, and the designer of her own line of handmade fashion accessories available online at her etsy shop, Tigerlily Dream. Visit her shop, Tigerlily Dream to shop and support an independent designer! PLUS Yelsi has extended a 20% Discount to Lilly Pond(ering) Blog readers!! Just enter Coupon Code: HAPPY at check out!!

This Week: Counting down to Summer!!

2011-06-02T19:32:00.000-04:00

photos from left to right, Beach Ball via Cinemaretro, Reasons to wear swimming caps via yummy bubby, Healthy summer popsicles via Fit Tip Daily

As Spring comes to an end, I find myself excited about a new season once again!! And so the countdown begins!! 19 days till Summer!! I'm excited about sunny pool/beach days, popsicles, ice cream, gelato, BBQ, Miami Spice, margaritas, lemonade, sun tans, bike rides, and the overall more relaxed feeling that comes along with summer! First on the agenda for this season is to buy a new BBQ, tan my legs (so I can wear dresses...they are too pale), and come up with a few delicious cocktail recipes inspired by all of the amazing concoctions I tried in NYC. What are your plans this summer?! Are you excited about it yet? So this week...

1. Check out some delicious popsicle recipes from Country Living here.

2. I found out David Sedaris will be visiting Miami Beach in November! I want to go!!! See the rest of his tour dates here!

3. Am falling more and more in love with bird cages lately, this one is lovely!! Wishing I had a spot in my apartment where I could hang a little cluster of old bird cages.

4. My friend, Cristina shared 5 of her favorite things with us! See them here!

5. Tigerlily dream has offered to sponsor the first ever giveaway on Lilly Pond(ering) Blog!! One lucky reader will win the necklace featured in this post!! Pop in here on Monday to enter to win!!
Have a lovely, sunny weekend!! xo

One Accessory Said to the Other: Sweet Dreams

2011-05-31T22:04:00.000-04:00

The Fashion Accessory

Marimekko BonBon Necklace-Orange & Pink Melooni by Tigerlily Dream on Etsy

It's my friend's shop, check out the rest of Tigerlily Dream's Bonbon Collection here!!

The Home Accessory

Kaveri Quilt designed by Rebekah Maysles from Anthropologie

Currently Loving: Cristina Rozas's Favorite Things for Spring 2011

2011-05-31T00:26:00.002-04:00

photo by SCAD second year photo student, Maria Rozas

Cristina is a former classmate of mine. I run into her at concerts and "see" her regularly on Facebook. She is one of the nicest people I met in school, she's cool, she's talented and she's got great taste too!! I asked Cristina to tell us a little about herself and what she's up to these days, here's what she said...

Hmm. Well, I got my Bachelor's in Interior Design at the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale where I took summers off to travel around Europe. Traveling made me become extremely passionate about Architecture, Textiles, and Industrial Design. I'm currently continuing my education in the Art Institute by taking classes on Environmental/Sustainable Design and experimenting with Furniture Design. Also, I've recently started renovating a house in Guatemala which is really exciting because I get to design a couple more custom furniture pieces. Finally, next year I'll be moving to Switzerland to pursue a job opportunity in a textile company and/or to continue my education on Sustainable Products and Design. I'm hoping to one day start my own company with a focus on safe and sustainable living. Also, I would love to come out with a line of chairs made from recycled plastics and reclaimed wood.

My inspiration comes from all branches of design with an emphasis on environmentally friendly and people friendly products. This is the first piece I’ve designed and created, all made from reclaimed wood with a non-toxic finish.

1. Feminine Frocks. Spring is the best time to be feminine, and a great way to do so is with the perfect dress. The one that caught my eye is the Mompos Dress by Tracy Reese. Its classic design is universally flattering and, with the right accessories, can take you anywhere this spring. I recommend pairing it with flats and retro sunglasses for a sunny picnic, or with a cardigan and wedges for a cool night. Mompos Dress, $228 via Anthropologie

2. Mochi Ice Cream. A Japanese treat made from pounded sticky rice and ice cream filling, Mochi ice cream is a delicious way to cool down. It’s refreshing, yummy, and comes in a variety of flavors. My personal favorite is green tea. Mochi Ice Cream, $6.99 www.traderjoes.com

3. Little Joy. Even though it’s been a couple of years since Little Joy’s self-titled album was released, it’s still perfect for this season. Formed by The Stroke’s drummer Fabrizio Moretti, Los Hermanos singer Rodrigo Amarante, and LA chanteuse Binki Shapiro, Little Joy resonates with indie rock sounds from the band member’s previous musical ventures while paying homage to Brazilian Bossa Nova. Their songs are simple and sweet, making it the ideal soundtrack for spring. Little Joy, $9.77. www.amazon.com

4. Peony. Every season I like try a new scent, mostly because a season is how long a fragrance will last me, and because it’s an inexpensive change from season to season. A friend of mine gave me a vial of Pivoine Flora from L’Occitane a while back and I haven’t stopped using it since. The smell is subtle and fresh and the packaging is perfect; a small roll-on vial that goes a long way and is perfect to freshen up on the go. Pivoine Flora Eau de Toilette Roll-On, $16. www.loccitane.com

5. Mirrors. Whether they be in geometric designs circa the Art Deco era, or in opulent frames reminiscent of the Galerie des Glaces in the Palace at Versailles, mirrors have become a design staple once again. They add glamour to any room and, depending on the design, go great in all homes. They’re on trend this spring but they’ve proven to be a lasting piece throughout the years. I’m recently in search of one for a remodeling project and I think I’ve finally found it! Venetian Mirror, $965 Neiman Marcus

This Week: The Unofficial Start of Summer

2011-05-28T00:12:00.000-04:00

Swimming Cap by Greg Lotus via NIBA

And just like that it's Memorial Day Weekend! This year is flying by, isn't it?! As of this weekend, it officially feels like Summer. We have left sunny South Beach and checked into my mom's house in the suburbs for the weekend. Our plans consist of lots of lounging, BBQ, a graduation party, splish splashing in the pool and visiting with friends. So excited to have three whole days off! What are your long weekend plans?! I'm excited to wake up to a big breakfast made by my mom!! So this week...

1. Daily Candy and NPR released Summer Beach Reading lists, I'm not sure if I'll read any of these but perhaps you'll find it useful if you're stuck on selecting a light easy beach read;)

2. I watched The Hangover 2 and was terribly disappointed:( I figured it would not live up to the first, why even try? Have any of you watched it? Thoughts?

3. Sofia Coppola is getting married!!

4. Am craving some delicious Rum Punch, it's so yummy that it sneaks up on you, doesn't it?! Bobby Flay's Rum Punch recipe sounds delicious:)

5. Am about to start reading The Happiness Project. Have any of you read it? Will let you know how it goes:)

Have a safe, happy, looooong weekend!!! xo

Spring 2011: Pantone's Top 10 Colors for Mens Fashion for Spring 2011

2011-05-24T23:41:00.006-04:00

As promised, here are Pantone's Top 10 Colors for Men's Fashion for Spring 2011. They are almost the same as Pantone's Top 10 Colors for Women's Fashion for Spring 2011, except Honeysuckle, Coral Rose, Peapod, Silver Peony, and Silver Cloud have been replaced by Barberry, Firecracker, Turf Green, Linen and Flint Gray. I think I will try to get my husband to wear Barberry and Linen:) Do you have a favorite? Will you be recommending any of these colors to the man in your life? xo

Pantone's Top 10 Color for Mens Fashion for Spring 2011 by lillyphunq on Polyvore.com

This Week: The Joys of Girlhood

2011-05-21T01:43:00.000-04:00

photo on card my sister gave me by Lee Anne Brooke

We went to watch Bridesmaids tonight and it was soooo funny! It felt so good to laugh so hard! At dinner afterwards, I was talking with my sister about how wonderful it was/is to be a girl. I'm sure boys have fun too, but girls, we have so much fun! It's funny because we're intelligent, well rounded, educated women and though girly topics still interest and amuse us, we're definitely not bimbos! I'm still friends with girls I played Barbie with (my goodness has she evolved, she has her own website now:) We enjoy talking about serious topics, and life but also have fun talking about decor or nail polish, showing each other the new clothes and make-up we buy, and sharing recipes. My husband once commented on how funny it was that my sister and I can skip from serious topics in conversation to say, mascara and be equally excited and interested in the conversation! I don't know why, but every little thing can be fun when you share it with your girlfriends, don't you agree?! Thinking back on all the funny (too embarrassing to talk about in detail here) little snippets I can recall perfectly from my girlhood (and womanhood thus far) makes me feel so lucky to have always had such great friends:) And just like that we're all grown women with careers and responsibilities and I get to see some of them become wonderful mothers, and we still have our girly conversations and laugh together. I just love quality girly time with my lovely friends (you know who you are;) So this week...

1. Two of my friends had their baby girls!! Congratulations to "L" and "J"!!!

2. I fell in love with Keri Russell's Brownstone in Brooklyn in the latest issue of Elle Decor Magazine!!!!

3. I would love to go here!! Isn't it dreamy?!

4. In the coming weeks some of my Currently Loving posts will feature some wonderful, creative people I know and they will be sharing a couple of the things they are Currently Loving!

5. Memorial Day weekend is around the corner?! Any big plans?! Do tell!!

Have a lovely weekend!!! xo

Currently Loving: Reclaimed Wood in Design

2011-05-18T23:00:00.001-04:00

One of the things I enjoyed most during my recent trip to New York City was how lovely and charmingly old everything is. Old like in Europe, meaning old but well maintained, timeless! As I sat in the sun-filled dining room at Prime Meats in Brooklyn, I overheard a gentleman telling another that the space we were in was a recent addition to the restaurant, and he went on to explain that they had used reclaimed wood for the floors and walls. The space felt so rich, the slight echo as our server walked to our table and away, the sun coming in through the skylight, the old table tops and chairs, the old window in the dining room in front of us, right then I fell in love with reclaimed/re-purposed wood like never before. Not only is it a more sustainable approach but it is truly lovely with it's charming weather and charm, isn't it? Here are a few lovely examples of reclaimed woods in Industrial and Interior Design.

from left to right: Deger Cengiz's Leaning Shelves via 3-Rings, Silkscreen on Reclaimed Wood Bookmarks via Nicola and the Newfoundlander, Reclaimed Wood Stairs via Trendir, side table/stool by Nicolai Czumaj-Bront via Modecodesign, Bodhi Desk from Anthropologie, Organic Coil Cherry wood bracelet by Gustav Reyes via Artful Home, LV Wood Floors via Interior Design

Outfit to Outfitted: Just Peachy

2011-05-16T20:59:00.001-04:00

Outfit

look from Aquilano.Rimondi SS2011 Fashion Show during Milan Fashion Week, photo via Marie Claire

Outfitted

photo of Master Bedroom designed by Martha Angus by Grey Crawford via Elle Decor

This Week: Brooklyn and the Best Burger!

2011-05-13T14:55:00.004-04:00

photos of Brooklyn Bridge and the Best Burger Ever by me

So, I must tell you...I'm in LOVE!! During our mini break in NYC last week I fell madly in love with Brooklyn!! Especially the Carroll Gardens area but loved every area I visited too. Our first stop after walking the Brooklyn Bridge was lunch at Prime Meats, a beautiful, sunny, farm to table restaurant where I had what may very well be the BEST, most juicy burger I have ever had!! Which was perfect since a) I was loving Brooklyn so much already by then that it was great to add a delicious lunch to our already wonderful experience and b) I had already decided to partake in the celebration of National Burger Month!! The cocktail I had was great too, I had the Jamaican Rum Punch which was delicious! I must say that I had some of the most delicious cocktails on this trip! I love that so much creativity is going into mixing drinks, I am a huge fan of cocktails that taste good! I had a fabulous Birthday dinner at Buttermilk Channel right down the street from Prime Meats. There, we indulged in the Fried Chicken and Cheddar Cheese Waffles with a side of amazing mashed potatoes and more delicious cocktails...soooo good! For dessert we had an apple tart and homemade vanilla ice cream. They were so friendly and everything was so delicious, it was a perfect end to a wonderful day in my new favorite place, Brooklyn, NY. We loved it so much that we were thrilled to meet up with friends for drinks in Williamsburg on Saturday night.We had more yummy drinks at the Roebling Tea Room and visited Maison Premiere a lovely Oyster Bar. I will post some pictures from my trip in another post soon! So this week...

1. I am 31!! And as I've mentioned before, have started to stress (a little) about the signs of aging. I have been using a Lancome night/wrinkle cream and eye cream before bed every night since Monday and see a huge difference already!

2. I'm wishing I was en route to ICFF too:(

3. Am loving Designers & Books, a site that offers book recommendations from some of our favorite designers!

4. I was so happy to visit the MET during our trip and thrilled that I got to see the Alexander McQueen exhibition Savage Beauty. I was familiar with a lot of his work but to see it all together, so beautifully curated was such a treat. If you're in or visiting NYC and have any interest in Fashion Design, you have to go!

5. I treated myself to the book Food Fashion Friends for my birthday and it arrived!! Oh my goodness, what a beautiful book!! I plan to try out a few of the recipes soon, will let you know how it goes!

Have a beautiful, sunshine-filled weekend!! xo

Ad Campaigns I Love: Larsen Fabrics Collection 2011

2011-05-11T21:07:00.000-04:00

Last week I received a lovely package from Larsen Fabrics. Enclosed were these lovely postcards above (and a couple more) along with a bundle of dark chocolates, each individually wrapped with papers printed with the different patterns from the collection (see them in top left photo). Their collection is great, full of neutral colors, simple (linen-like) textures and bold patterns, lovely! And the whole presentation was so lovely and delicious! If only all product lines were this detail-oriented in their presentation. Did any of you receive this package too?

Spring 2011: Silver Cloud Pantone 15-4502

2011-05-10T23:30:00.001-04:00

It's true, I'm pretty partial to grays but isn't Silver Cloud the loveliest gray?! It is the last, and quite possibly my very favorite of Pantone's Top 10 Colors for Women's Fashion for Spring 2011! It's not your usual gray because it has a lovely lightness to it, doesn't it? Silver Cloud is the perfect neutral for spring and so lovely with Honeysuckle, Coral Rose, Beeswax, and Peapod! So tell me, which are your top 3? Is Silver Cloud one of your favorites?!

photo of beautiful balloons via Glamour Weddings

Look from Dries Van Noten Spring 2011-RTW via Elle

bedroom by designer Alex Papachristidis from Elle Decor via Decorpad

Tassel Garland-Neutrals via Confetti Systems, Strapless floral romper from Forever 21, photo and DIY doily envelope idea via Martha Stewart Weddings, Karen Walker pleated skirt via Marie Claire

photo from Bergdorf Goodman Spring 2011 Look Book via Fashion Lover

dress from Alexander McQueen SS11 Runway via Harpers Bazaar

photos via Shabby Chic

look from Marc by Marc Jacobs SS11 Runway via Harpers Bazaar

Silver Cloud Pantone 15-4502 by lillyphunq featuring gray heels

*Click on photo to shop these items:)

This Week: Celebrate Burgers and Birthdays!

2011-05-05T11:14:00.000-04:00

photo of one of my favorite burgers, the very naughty Big Mac

Did you know that May is National Burger Month?! It's an unofficial holiday, but I'm thrilled to partake in the celebration;) I LOVE LOVE LOVE burgers! I will order a burger almost any where and I never get tired of eating them...yay for burgers!!! I turn 31 years old today! Am spending my birthday wandering NYC with my wonderful husband, endulging in burgers and cocktails and baked treats, exploring Brooklyn and going wherever else the day takes us!
Will be slacking for the rest of the week, first on our list... Lunch and cocktails! Have a great weekend:) xo

Gift Guide: Mother's Day 2011

2011-05-03T23:05:00.004-04:00

Mothers Day 2011 Gift Guide by lillyphunq featuring wrap watches

Help Save the Honey Bee!

2011-05-03T00:47:00.000-04:00

some work inspired by the work of Honey Bees (left to right): photo of Sweet Honeycomb Home designed by Ofis Architects via Archithings, photo of Honeycomb light designed by Kazuyuki KAWASE via link-design, honeycomb store design by Kengo Kuma & Associates, Lucien Pellat-Finet, Osaka via Interior Design

As you may have already heard, Honey Bees are endangered:( The loss of the Honey Bee would be disastrous, there are many factors involved, the use of pesticides is just one of the many issues affecting them. Please sign this petition urging the EPA to pull pesticides that are harmful to Honey Bees. Thanks:)

This Week: The Dog Days of Spring

2011-04-29T20:37:00.000-04:00

photo of Tracy by me

How was your week? I have to be honest and say that this has been a very hard week for us around here. On Monday, our greyhound, Mystic Dick Tracy (goes by Tracy) was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma or Bone Cancer. We are completely devastated by this news, especially because treatment is not really a long term solution as the chances of the cancer returning immediately are quite high, which makes all the pain and suffering he would have to go through seem cruel. So we have decided to not go through with chemotherapy or amputation which means our beautiful, wonderful boy may be leaving us sometime soon:( We don't quite know if he has a couple of months or a year or more to live but are working on making him as comfortable and happy as possible from now until then (whenever then might be). On Sunday we are visiting a Holistic Veterinarian who we are hoping can do some acupuncture and other treatments that will help manage the pain along with the prescribed pain killers he is already taking. So the next couple of weeks and months will be very difficult as we know his condition (and his limp/mobility) will only get worse:( Sorry about such a depressing post, I hope to be bright and cheery as soon as we get a handle on our plans and treatments for Tracy. So this week...

1. The food trucks are out tonight!! Go here for their location!!

2. My amazing and talented friend, Kaelsie of Surface Workshop has painted a mural which will be (or has been by now) revealed at Green MonkeyYoga Studio tonight. If you read this too late, you can still see her mural, I hear their yoga classes are great!

3. Kelly Wearstler has designed a ready to wear fashion collection!! You can check out the whole collection here!

4. Prince William and Kate Middleton got married!! Did you watch the Royal Wedding? I caught snippets of it this morning, what a lovely bride!! They looked lovely and so happy!! And am sooo happy that she selected Alexander McQueen dresses!

5. We are planning to spend the day with great friends tomorrow!! Am so looking forward to a relaxing afternoon and little Homestead adventure!! Plus, Tracy is going for a visit too!!

Have a lovely weekend!!!! xo