Style Illuminated

New York has just bid adieu to Fashion Week. Design inspiration seen on the runway can now be adapted to the home. There has always been somewhat of a correlation between fashion and home as both are a visual way to express ourselves. 

Fashion week is a time for designers to pull out all the stops, dazzle us with never-before-seen designs and offer us a show that makes us think.     

These two designs by Michael Kors for the Fall/Winter 2013 collection are simple yet bold. He has used black which is a staple in every wardrobe as well as in any room. Black grounds a space and should always be considered a “decor must.”  

1. Carnival Black Shade Ovo Table Lamp

2. Safavieh Florida Shag Area Rug

The top runway look is by Alexander Wang and the bottom by Marc Jacobs. Both are heavyweight designers and these looks are from their Fall/Winter 2013 shows. Wang’s modern approach to a classic gray overcoat seems the absolute inspiration for this gray and black replacement shade. I see them as a triumph if you were to use them to update a classic chandelier in the dining room. Jacobs’ playful print skirt translates seamlessly to this scramble print shade. Did somebody say designer bedside lamps?   

1. Black Velvet Trim Grey Shade

2. Retro Squares Scramble Giclee Trumpet Table Lamp

These two looks from J. Crew’s Fall/Winter 2013 show embraces pattern in wild ways. There seems to be print on print madness with a light dusting of tribal. No fear, we have fashionable home decor that follows this trend!

1. Jamie Young Candy Hand-Embroidered Accent Pillow 

2. Loloi Aurora Black-Circles Area Rug

Fashion week is just bursting with design inspiration. Don't be shy to translate sartorial looks into interior ideas - have fun with pattern and color in your home the same way yo would in your wardrobe!

Photos: The Sartorialist.

The word "modern" often acts as a catch-all phrase in the design world, but there's not just one type of modern design out there. Which modern home decor style are you - funky modern, or industrial modern?

Funky Modern: I think we can all learn from (or at the least be inspired by) the way artist Kirra Jamison uses color and arranges unique items in her living room. With lots of wall art, patterned area rugs, and colorful pillows, it all seems to work together. Photo by  Derek Swalwell, featured in Inside Out Magazine.

Get the look: Main Street Giclee Print Wall Art, Rectangular Mirrored Circles Wall Mirror, Laguna Orange Square Pillow, Red Ikat Throw Pillow, Gwenieve Wood and Glass Cocktail Table, Premier Purple Swoop Arm Chair, Palpitate Handmade Rug

Industrial Modern: Dahlia, of State of the State, has an industrial modern dining space that lets in so much light. Even though the space has a combination of modern and industrial elements it still feels like a lived-in home. You can get an Industrial Modern look with a few simple pieces. See the rest of the feature on Wit & Delight. Photo by Melissa Oholendt.

Get the look: Black Dome Pendant Light, Silver Metal Serving Bowl, Faux Silk Plant in Pot, White Plastic Side Chairs, Small Gustavo Glass Vase, Cheese Block Wood Tray, Frosted Glass Dining Table

So, funky modern or industrial modern - which home decor style is more your taste?

Asking yourself how to beat the winter blues? Between blizzards on the East Coast and the general malaise of the post holiday winter, it’s hard to feel perky. What’s even more depressing is seeing all the cruise wear in stores and knowing you can’t get away! 

I have concocted a design recipe that will replace your singing the blues with a house of blues...band optional. I think the perfect pick-me-up-blue during the winter is turquoise. It has the feel of a winter Caribbean getaway without the summer feel found in a navy and white design scheme.

Lighting is key to brightening up a room. Soft blue table lamps like the one in the top photo may have an ocean blue feel but could also be paired with creams and browns for colder climates. Regardless, it’s a pick-me-up with a shade! Additionally, by simply adding a blue shade you can instantly add a pop of much needed pizazz during the dreary winter months.

1. Robert Abbey Double Gourd Egg Blue Ceramic Table Lamp

2. Hanover Teal Shade Clear Crystal Table Lamp

Seating is another easy way to introduce color to a space. Chairs and stools are easy to move, can offer double duty in a dining room or office and in the right shade of turquoise will cheer you up while comforting your tush.

1. Turquoise Bonded Leather Classic Parson Chair

2. Arteriors Home Tennyson Turquoise Linen Stool

Accessories are the easiest way to beat the winter blues. A small dose of turquoise blue be it in contemporary wall art or in a casual throw pillow will transform a room. Don’t be afraid to try. Simple accessories can always be moved around the house and can be used in the yard, terrace or deck in warmer months. So, who needs a tropical vacation now? OK, don’t answer that... 

1. Monroe Modern Turquoise Wood Tray

2. Surya Turquoise Throw Pillow

Photos: House of Turquoise, Beach Bungalow 8.

Welcome to another installment of Style School, in which we explore the origins and defining elements of different regional aesthetics. Our topic today is the fun and frivolous mid century decorating, for which Palm Springs style is known. It's an decor approach that has gained steam in recent years thanks to designers like Jonathan Adler and Kelly Wearstler, but when overdone it can become kitschy. Let's break it down into bite-sized pieces.

Palm Springs has a long history as a resort destination. In the first half of the 20th century, it hosted travelers in search of the arid climate and the area's hot springs. As the Hollywood scene grew in the 1930's—and especially in the years after World War II—the town became known for its glamorous hotels and luxe leisure offerings. At the same time, modernist architects including Richard Neutra were drawn to the striking environs and open-ended possibilities of desert development. In short, the Palm Springs sensibility juxtaposes the extravagant mood of an oasis retreat with the spare, subdued lines and textures of the surrounding sands. 

Get the Palm Springs style by incorporating these key influences taken from mid century decorating. Keep coffee tables, seating, and other furniture low like the horizon. When it comes to color, build a foundation with neutrals such as stone and sand, then accent with vacation hues like pool blue and mimosa yellow. Finally, mid century inspired lighting has a huge impact; one or two ceramic gourd lamps go a long way towards bringing the look home. 

Next week we'll at another regional decorating style, and be sure to check out last week's Style School on Farmhouse Modern and The Hudson River Valley!

 Shopping Guide: 1. Arteriors Home Lacquered Wood Console 2. Midcentury Ceramic Gourd Lamp 3. Polished Nickel Drum Side Table 4. Striped Jute Rug 5. Midcentury Modern Linen Chair 6. Beige Contemporary Rug 7. Fringe Down Pillows 8. Bamboo Parquet Coffee Table

Images: Lamps Plus Guest Blogging Pinterest.

Let’s discuss how nobody discusses clocks? I think they are absolute designer essentials. We need clocks, we run our lives based on the clock and most of us wear a version of one on our wrists every day of our lives. Does anybody ever says, “Oh my god, I just got an amazing new clock!” Jewelry, yes.  Car, for sure. Clock? Never. Think about it, we can’t even cook without clocks...that is anything that requires cooking time. This underdog of the interior design world needs some loving.

Wall clocks can be tricky depending on the room and decor. I find they are a kitchen staple, like milk, eggs and peanut butter cups. They can, however, look gorgeous in a foyer and large wall clocks can be very functional in a great room when kids need to know when it’s time for bed, to do their homework, or wash-up for dinner.

Pictured: Howard Miller Dorchester Wall Clock, White Retro Round Metal Wall Clock, Kaleidoscope Round Framed Wall Clock

Bedside clocks are as basic as beautiful bedside lamps. This is where practicality meets pretty. You certainly need a clock that can wake you up in time for work, but who wants the first thing you see in the morning to be an old clinker of a clock? Maybe it’s time to upgrade.

Pictured: Bulova Bellman Chrome Alarm Clock

Finally, for me, tabletop clocks tend to have a more vintage, heirloom feel. Whether you have one on your mantle or on some shelves, take care that it’s decorative, not necessarily functional. Who wants to see a digital alarm clock on a chest of drawers or in a bookcase?   

Pictured: Amesbury Gold Tone Bulova Carriage Clock, Howard Miller Albright Tabletop Clock

Now here's how to use this designer essential well - simply stunning!

Photos: Habitually Chic, House of Turquoise.

In a world that favors neutral home decor, it can feel intimidating to push the color limits with orange, grey and yellow. But when I spied this living room, I was drawn in immediately. The refreshing color combination of various shades of greys, paired with little pops of oranges and sunny yellows makes the space feel like a little bit of spring has already arrived.

The variations of grey hues creates a strong foundation throughout the space. I love how the darker slate color turns the fireplace into a stunning focal point. Everything on the mantel just pops right off.

The light grey couches add the perfect soft touch {and are kid friendly!}. They create the perfect base for colorful pillows and throws. Integrating white accents keeps the scheme from getting too overwhelming and also leaves the space feeling so fresh and inviting.

I want to sink right into that comfortable sofa and open up my magazine right now! I'm now seriously considering adding a few colorful accents to our home!

Shopping guide: Granite Peak Bold Stripe Apothecary Table Lamp, Estelle Orange Large Round Wood Tray, Uncertain Gray Ovo Floor Lamp, Riddle 20" Square Orange Greek Key Pillow, Pearl and Cerise Grand Peony Silk Flowers, Howard Elliott Contessa 43" High Venetian Style Mirror, Raymond Adjustable Height White Accent Table, Yellow Chenille Throw Blanket.

Image via Pinterest.

A bedroom is more than a place to collapse at the end of the day. A bedroom should be a sanctuary; a peaceful retreat. Also, I think, a bit of a romantic haven. Want to know how to make your bedroom romantic? An easy way to add a bit of glamour is with crystal chandeliers. They needn't be over-the-top sparklers worthy of Queen Elizabeth or the lobby of The Ritz. There are plenty of traditional and modern crystal chandeliers for the bedroom, befitting all sorts of tastes and decor. Let's have a look.

For just a hint of shine, try a chandelier with a shade, and crystals that peek elegantly out. The one in this peaceful, pale blue bedroom works beautifully , adding a subtle touch of decadence. Interior image: New England Home

Shopping guide: 1. Possini Silver and Crystal Semi-Flushmount Ceiling Light  2. Echelon Crystals and Bridal Shade Pendant Light  3. Metairie Silver Fabric Crystal Chandelier

A crystal sputnik chandelier is a glammed-up play on this mid-century lighting staple. Shown here in a traditional space, complete with canopy bed and Chinoiserie wallpaper, the style also works well in more minimal surroundings. Interior image: Elle Decor

Shopping guide: 1. Possini Euro Sparkle Chrome Chandelier  2. Possini Euro Design Crystal Burst Mini Pendant Light  3. Jonathan Adler Sputnik Flush Mount Nickel Ceiling Light

To dress up a more rustic space, opt for a smaller, almost-lantern-like style, preferable in a burnished brass or bronze finish. Lately, I've noticed a pattern of this type of light hung very low, as it is here. You can even do two, one on each side of the bed. Interior image: via the Style Files

Shopping guide: 1. Schonbek La Scala Crystal Chandelier  2. Prelude Chrome and Crystal Chandelier  3. Kathy Ireland Venezia Bronze Chandelier

Replete with crystals, but in a tailored design, this tight-knit pattern of cut-glass forms a more formal, but not froufy look. In this blue and white bedroom, the design elevates the formal toile from staid to stellar. Interior image: Interior design by Harriet Anstruther

Shopping guide: 1. Vixen Polished Nickel Corbett Pendant Light  2. Wallingford Antique Brass and Crystal Chandelier

A flush mount crystal ceiling light , or even a bowl-style mounted close to the ceiling is a more no-fuss look, but still makes a statement. The room shown here is somewhat tailored, with its white and gray palette and crisp linens. These crystal chandeliers are an unobtrusive finishing touch. Interior image: Interior design by Natalie Fuller - Harper's Bazaar

Shopping guide: 1. Metropolitan Magique Wide Bowl Pendant Light  2. Crystal Net Chrome Ceiling Light  3. Empire Spectra Crystal Ceiling Light Fixture

Finally, this is the most romantic style, I think. Black, dripping with crystals, it's pretty much all you need in the room for adornment. Case in point, this bedroom with its simple white bed, basic black nightstands, minimal black and white landscape photograph, and oversize chandelier is warm and dreamy. Interior image: Interior design by Rose Uniacke

Now that you know how to make your bedroom romantic, there's no reason it can't be a place where you feel like a princess. (Minus Mickey Mouse.) Check out 24 more gorgeous interiors with chandeliers over on StyleCarrot!

Shopping guide: 1. Vienna Full Spectrum Crystal Black Nickel Chandelier  2. Cinderella Black Chandelier  3. Black Glass Turret Chandelier

February 14th can either be super romantic or a super drag. My thoughts are to take the romance out of it and think of it as another excuse to decorate. Fiery red Valentine's Day decor will certainly last longer than flowers and is much less caloric than candy.

Don’t get me wrong, the world needs romance, but it also needs better interiors! So instead of indulging in sweets today, why not indulge in a little home makeover?

1. Set of Two Red S Chairs 2. Red Silk Modified Bell Shade

While my post today is not necessarily about the romantic side of V-day, it will include the hallmark color red that defines the classic Valentine’s Day celebration. Whether you favor contemporary or traditional, look at how a little punch of red adds life to these two rooms. From replacement shades to pillows and more, red can look fiery in the summer, festive during the holidays and preppy all year round...think red hunting jackets. 

1. Red Penelope Pendant Light 2. Set of 2 Salsa Red Outdoor Accent Pillows 3. Lights Up! Weegee Nickel Red Dupioni Silk Shade Floor Lamp

While red decor is timeless, it's also bold. Notice how these rooms and the ones above tend to pair red with a crisp white? This balances the saturated hue. I’m crazy about the classic chandeliers updated for today and made much more interesting with cute red shades. Even chic mini pendant lights and sconces can get into the holiday act without seeming too “holiday.” I think these rooms simply look modern, not cliche. So whether you have somebody special or not, Valentine’s Day can now be all about loving...your home!

Photos: The Zhush, Casa Sugar, House of Fifty.

I'm a big fan of modern farmhouse decorating. One of the best ways to incorporate aspects of a particular decor look into your home (in this case, the Hudson River Style) is to break the style down at its point of origin. That way you understand it more fully, and can pick and choose the elements you'd like to keep as your decorating inspiration, and which elements you'd like to leave by the wayside.

The Hudson River Valley lies just northwest of New York City, and its varied aesthetic influences give it a rich and dynamic sensibility. In the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, wealthy New Yorkers used the area as a holiday escape, and many luxury antiques still circulate the area; mill towns result in a definite industrial presence; and a flourishing agricultural influence makes for a primitive rural feel as well. The result is an eclectic mix of these three personalities coming together to create a distinct blend of first class, factory, and farm that is unique to this part of the country.  

Get the modern farmhouse look with a mix of traditional turned wood tables, rustic ceramics, blanket print textiles, and transitional wall art like landscapes and oil portraits. Architectural details such as bead board in the bathroom or apron-front sinks takes the modern farmhouse effect to the next level, but even a small lighting swap from Hudson Valley Lighting will be an authentic and impactful touch. Next week we'll explore another regional style and how to get the look!

Shopping Guide: 1. Polished nickel wall sconce 2. White counter stool 3. Blue and beige stripe pillow 4. Red retro round metal clock 5. Hand painted oil on canvas wall art 6. Double gourd ceramic lamp 7. Rubbed black four drawer console

Images: Lamps Plus Guest Blogging Pinterest.

I love spring.

Really.

To help you get your outdoor spaces ready for spring....I have a few spring porch decorating ideas and tips.

Spring is the time of year when the world shakes off its doldrums and mother nature begins to don her coat of many splendid colors.  Spring brings with it joy and optimism and the promise of joy on the horizon.  Trees are budding and flowers are blooming and the sun shines down on a new day.

And sweet tea season begins.

That's right....porch season.  Sweet iced tea and fluffy pillows and bright colors and blooming flowers.....

.....and a really good book.

1.  Pops of Color

Neutrals are amazing and wonderful and I have a house full of them, but the porch is the place for color.

Keep it simple with brilliant shades of the rainbow in your choice of colorful accent pillows or an accent chair or even an outdoor ottoman.

Turquoise or orange or hot pink....mix these hues together or use one as a prominent accent color.....each is a perfect kick-off for spring.    

2. Step On It

Never underestimate the power of a rug.

Truly.

Indoor/outdoor rugs in vibrant colors and patterns can make even the simplest of porches look magazine ready.

And here's a quick tip.....stretch your decorating dollars and add a unique stamp to your own design by layering rugs on the porch.

3.  Bring the Inside Out

One of the keys to decorating a porch is truly making it feel like home.

The same principles you might use to decorate an indoor room apply here. Add lamps and urns and planters and side tables and textiles.

And here's a quick tip.  One of my go-to looks for spring for the porch is......this incredible woven seagrass lampshade.

 4. Look Up

Don't overlook lighting for the porch, too.

Choose a statement piece with one large hanging lantern or hang them in pairs or groups of three for maximum impact.

Even a simple chandelier with clip-on shades makes the perfect addition to any porch.

The snow may be falling right now.....but spring is on its way.

This is the season for adding color and rugs and lighting and bringing the outside in.

So why not start by putting a little "spring" in your porch....

....because sweet tea season is just around the corner!

Photo credits:  Photo 1:  Traditional Home  Photo 2:  bhg  Photo 3:  bhg  Photo 4:  bhg  Photo 5:  Traditional Home  Photo 6:  bhg