Pages

9.11.2013

swoon.

The latest issue of Elle Decor is full of eye candy, but nothing on those glossy pages is as swoon-worthy as Cameron Diaz's Manhattan apartment designed by the genius herself, Kelly Wearstler.  Wearstler is an absolute MASTER at mixing contemporary and vintage pieces and always adds her signature quirky and unexpected style.  She did not disappoint when it came to completely revamping Diaz's 2,400 square foot pre-war apartment. Wearstler's use of mixed metals, minerals and feminine blushy tones translated to a rich, warm and sexy space.  Even the tiniest details were meticulously crafted...every single drawer is lined in black silk! Hello luxury (and hefty price tag)! Let's dissect...


{Custom blush de Gournay grasscloth wallcoverings, Milo Baughman swivel armchair, Murano chandelier, vintage cocktail table and stools in the living room}



{Custom-made parchment and brass dining table flanked by vintage leaf sconces and armchairs covered in Groundworks linen by Kelly Wearstler}



{The kitchen boasts unlacquered brass countertop, backsplash and sink fittings, cerused ebony flooring, and custom emerald and brass-trimmed cabinets}



{Silk linens by Frette and Yves Delorme, 1950s French mohair chair, de Gournay wallcoverings and gilded papered ceiling make this one luxe master bedroom}



{This jewel box master bathroom walls are covered in Ann Sack's mirrored tiles, custom mirrors and parchment vanity, sink and fittings by Waterworks}



{Brass four poster bed frame, 1960 Austrian light fixture, abstract painting by Riccardo Prosperi and a vintage marble garden stool make this suite one Diaz's guests surely won't want to leave}



{Pink onyx countertop and walls, sink by Bates and Bates, fittings by Waterworks and a custom brass shower stall in the guest bath}

TO DIE FOR, right? The bold emerald kitchen and luxe master bedroom are my top two personal favorites.  The guest bath? Eh...it may be a tad too flashy for my personal taste but hey, I'd still feel right at home here. Note to self: add "Ann Sacks mirrored tile" to my dream home wishlist. 

What do you think about Cameron's apartment? Take it or leave it?


8.23.2013

happy weekend.



Happy weekend y'all! Tomorrow my little family and I will be making our way down to Palm Beach for a leisurely birthday celebration for yours truly. I'm pretty stoked for some much-needed family time fun in the sun (and hopefully some shopping, too)!  

What kinds of shenanigans will you guys be getting into? Whatever your plans may be, enjoy!

8.22.2013

luxe for less.


Waylande Gregory was a sculptor and American icon whose work is just as relevant today as it was 70 years ago.  He literally "broke the mold" when it came to ceramic techniques.  With his work featured in the Smithsonian, Whitney and New York Metropolitan museums, owning one of his pieces would undoubtedly be a luxury.  But of course, they do come at a hefty price tag.  This Waylande Gregory Small Tiger Orange Bullet Bowl may be one of the few items that isn't unattainable.  I'd love to have one to display some of my most precious jewels or as a catch-all on my desk.  I must admit, these C. Wonder Animal Dessert Plates achieve the same aesthetic for a fraction of the price...they may not be made with the same craftsmanship or 22k gold, but I think they'll do!

Check out more of some Waylande Gregory goodness here and here.

8.20.2013

birthday wishlist.


Solo Headphones, $199.95, Beats By Dre  |  Reasons 'Ain't Laurent' T Shirt, $59.07, ASOS  |  
Jo Malone London Grapefruit Cologne, $60.00, Neiman Marcus  |  Celine Graphic Sunglasses, $311.00, Designer Sunnies  |  Alexis Bittar Chain Link Ring, $95.00, Nordstrom  |  Xhiliration Kahsah High Top Wedge Sneakers, $28.00, Target  |  3.1 Phillip Lim Pashli Medium Satchel, $825.00, Saks

My 28th birthday is right around the corner so I thought I'd put together a little list of things that I've been coveting lately.  I know, I know, maybe a wishlist at this age is a tad bit ridiculous, but I love giving and receiving gifts (be honest, you do, too) so why not? The 'Ain't Laurent' T shirt and Celine sunnies are uber-popular right now, as I'm sure you've seen most celebs rocking the glasses and the shirt floating around the blogosphere, but I can't help it, I dig them! If I could have just one item it would definitely be the Pashli Satchel...did I tell you I have a handbag obsession? It's structured shape is classic and lady-like, and will transition so easily from summer to fall and beyond.  Instead of opting for a basic black or camel leather, the cobalt blue will make a statement and add some impact to any outfit! Sure, it's an investment, but a bag like that is totally worth it! A girl can dream, right?

8.08.2013

h&m home.



Can y'all believe these glam home decor pieces are from H&M?! They have so many items to decorate your home ranging in styles from sweet florals to edgier, moodier accents, like the ones you seen above.  Not only is everything super cute, but super affordable, too!  You just can't beat the luxe look at a good price! 

8.05.2013

stylishly simple poolside essentials.


Portofino Umbrella, Z Gallerie, $249.00  |  Chinese Garden Stool, Wisteria, $129.00
Riviera Chaise, Pottery Barn, $594.00 |  Geometric Outdoor Pillow, Etsy, $25.00

My picks for a stylishly simple poolside are timeless.   You can never go wrong with the most classic combo, black and white. Let your cute suit standout as the center of attention while lounging on these chaises from Pottery Barn! 

Come back later this week to get the look for a bold boho poolside!

7.31.2013

wanderlust wednesday | palm beach.


Coleman Maxi Dress, $298.00, Lilly Pulitzer  |  Saint Laurent Oversized Round Sunglasses, $295.00, Shopbop    Sardinia Pop Sandal, $138.00, Jack Rogers USA  |  Palm Beach Entertaining, $30.07, Amazon  |  Sommarfint Glass, $0.99, Ikea  |  Slim Aarons Photograph

Pack your most vibrant Lilly Pulitzer dress and Jack Rogers sandals because we are headed to the home of 'preppy chic' aka Palm Beach!

Palm Beach has an outstanding reputation as Florida's playground for the rich and famous.  Since its debut onto the scene in the early 1900s, Palm Beach quickly earned its status by attracting the world's most powerful and elite families and socialites.  And why not? It has everything imaginable to offer that you could possibly expect from a luxurious destination.  Year-round sunshine, pristine beaches along the Atlantic, world-class golf courses, high-end shopping on Worth Avenue (Hermès, Chanel, and Pucci...oh my!) and most notably the ultra-glamorous The Breakers hotel. If you're planning a trip to PB, The Breakers is it as far as luxe accommodations go.  Elements of extravagance are found in every aspect, from its Italian-influenced design to its beachfront spa oasis. 

Sounds like the perfect summer getaway to me!

7.29.2013

posh pools.

With the blazing hot days of summer upon us, there is nothing more I would rather do than lounge poolside with a good read, a cool glass of lemonade (splash of vodka optional) and some "Blurred Lines" blaring in the background.

My mouth literally waters at the thought of having one of these posh pools in my very own backyard. A rectangular shaped pool with limestone pavers surrounded by lush grass and well-manicured hedges is as classic as it gets. Throw groups of striped chaises into the mix and you have got one stylish poolside retreat.  These pools are practically begging me to take a plunge!






Stay tuned this week to see how I would create a luxe outdoor oasis!

5.17.2013

luxe for less.



I've had my eye on pretty much every shoe from the Valentino Rockstud Collection for quite some time.  Classic shoe silhouettes with a stud providing juuust the right amount of edge is right up my alley.  However with price tags starting at $695 (and upwards to $1295), those puppies weren't finding a home in my closet anytime soon! Imagine my excitement when I scored these Chinese Laundry jelly flip flops for a much lower price at TJ Maxx!

I mean, are they pretty much identical or what? And I can say that they are quite comfortable, which doesn't always hold true for inexpensive shoes.

Go get yourself some!

5.08.2013

wanderlust wednesday | mykonos.


9seed Tulum Cover Up, Shopbop, $115.00  |  Michael Kors Hunger Stop Watch, Michael Kors, $295.00  |  Marysia Mavi Cutout One Piece Swimsuit, Shopbop, $313.00  |  Evil Eye Goldtone Pendant Necklace, Max and Chloe, $32.00  |  Emilio Pucci Printed Silk Scarf, Luisa Via Roma, $374.00  |  Ancient Greek Kiveli Demi Wedge Sandal, Shopbop, $305.00

Two years ago my husband and I embarked on arguably the most memorable and fabulous trip of our lifetime...our honeymoon!  After a few days in Athens (and before Santorini, Istanbul AND Paris, sigh...) we traveled to Mykonos, a magical little island situated in the Aegean Sea.  Our days were spent basking in the warm sun by the pool or oceanfront while being waited on hand and foot by the incredible staff at Mykonos Grand Hotel & Resort (seriously, they don't allow you to lift a pinky), and we filled our evenings getting lost in the maze of Mykonos Town.  Gyros, the freshest fish and calamari and one too many Mythos beers sustained us during our stay here, and not one complaint was made. 

Here's a peek at our luxurious accommodations:








all images via

Can you say uh-mazing?

With its flawlessly beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife and world-class hotels, Mykonos embodies the essence of a romantic getaway.  

Somebody {cough, cough, sweet hubby of mine} take me back!

5.05.2013

cinco de mayo.


unoTory Burch Rattan Pom Pom Tote, Neiman Marcus, $450.00  |  dos: Mara Hoffman Medicine Wheel Embroidered Poncho, Shopbop, $275.00  |  tresMargarita Glass, Crate & Barrel, $4.95  |  cuatro: Summertime Donkey Print, Furbish Studio, $95.00  |  cincoSable Sandals, Joie, $115.00  |  seisMixed Cacti, Lowe's, $19.98

Break out your sombrero and cue the Mariachi, it's Cinco de Mayo!  I'll be celebrating this holiday donning a festive poncho while sipping my dad's famous margaritas poolside! Olé!

4.08.2013

benji & the jets.

Yellow Edge Curtain Panels, Land of Nod, $39.00  |  Howard Elliot Bella Silver Leaf Mirror, Noya Decor, $482.00 |  Industrial Task Lamp, West Elm, $79.00  |  Midcentury 6-Drawer Dresser, West Elm, $849.00  |  Capel Rugs Spain Rug, Zinc Door, from $223.00  |  Air Show Lamp Shade, Land of Nod, $50.00  |  Be Brave Print, Etsy, $17.00  |  Ouef Sparrow Crib, 2Modern, $760.00  |  Zigzag Tufted Throw, Nordstrom, $58.00  |  Metal Propeller, Hidden Treasures Decor, $49.99  |  Baxton Studio Letterio White Cradle Chair, Amazon, $110.00  |  Dream A Little Dream Pillow, Etsy, $35.00  |  Links Round Pouf, Wayfair, $244.00

Here's a little mood board I designed for my bestie's baby boy, Benji. Vanessa was inspired by Elton John's hit, Bennie and the Jets and decided an airplane-themed room was perfect for her little guy! (I can't take credit for the title of this post...that was all Vanessa! Cute, huh?!) 

Vanessa already had Benji's room painted a dark aqua-ish color which reminded me of the sky on a clear summer day, so I paired that blue with a sunny yellow for the perfect complementary color. As far as the rest of the room goes, my approach to designing a nursery is simple.  Since furniture is almost always where you invest the most money, I chose pieces that have longevity.  A modern, clean dresser is my choice for a changing table, that way when your baby is no longer in diapers you aren't stuck with a useless piece of furniture.  Also this modern rocking chair is comfy and stylish and doesn't look like most gliders you typically see in a nursery.  I added youthful touches with artwork and accessories to keep the room from being too grown-up.  And in case you can't read it, the throw pillow says "dream a little dream of me." How sweet is that? 

I hope Benji grows to love this room as much as I do!

4.05.2013

puddle jumpin'.


Valentino Lace Print Rain Boots, Nordstrom, $295.00  |  Hunter Carnaby Snake Wellies, Neiman Marcus, $195.00  |   Matthew Williamson x Havaianas Peacock Rain Boots, Matthew Williamson UK, $160.00  |  Hunter Carnaby Snake Wellies, Zappos, $195.00  | Burberry Parkfield Smoke Check Rain Boots, Overstock, $199.00  |  D&G Anfibio Green Rain Boots, Pret A Beaute, $190.00

Now that April is here, its infamous showers are inevitable.  Brave the storm and add some flair to your rainy day wardrobe with a pair of these printed wellies!  Not only will your feet stay nice and dry, but you will look so stylish jumpin' puddles! Those tan snakeskins are calling my name.

4.01.2013

glammed up entryway.

When I spotted this post on one of my fave blogs it immediately caught my attention.  I noticed that entryway held a few similarities to the entry in my own home. Black console? Check. Gray and purple color scheme? Check.  Since I am always looking for ways to change things up around here, I figured I would take on Abbe's challenge to glam up my entryway!

These two different options I designed both have the same key elements: black console, graphic runner, plum nailhead x-bench stools flanking the console, abstract art that I will attempt to DIY and those A-MAZING agate wall sconces featured in Abbe's shop, Shop Ten 25 (if you feel like losing your mind over all of the gorgeousness she has for sale, go there now)!

So here is option #1:



and option #2:



Which one strikes your fancy?

3.22.2013

junior chairs.


Junior Eames Chair, CraveModern, $55.00  |  Vitra Panton Junior Chair, All Modern, $145.00  |  Bertoia Child's Chair, Little Nest, $178.00/pair  |  Phillipe Starck Style Kids Ghost Chair, LexMod, $59.00  |  Little Jake Chair, Room & Board, $49.00

Even though my little one is a mere 4 months old, I can't help but start designing her play area!  I've already designated the perfect spot in our family room for a kids' arts and crafts table.  These miniature designer chairs are right up my alley.  Each offers the right dose of personality and pizzaz while allowing for easy clean up just in case my pint-sized Picasso decides to take her marker to one. I am leaning towards the Junior Eames Chair in white because it pairs perfectly with my existing decor, but I still can't choose.  I adore them all! Which one do you like best?

3.20.2013

wanderlust wednesday | paris.


Macaron Trinket Box, Urban Outfitters, $10.00  |  Zoe Karssen D'Accord T-shirt, Net-A-Porter, $90.00  |  Pegase 55 Rolling Luggage, Louis Vuitton, $3,200.00  |  Paris in the Springtime Photograph, Etsy, $30.00  |  Mackage Avra Trench, Bloomingdales, $595.00  |  Marc by Marc Jabobs Drew Blossom Scarf, Nordstrom, $158.00  |  WGACA Chanel Flap Bag, Shopbop, $3,850.00  |  Chloé Scalloped Ballet Flat, Nordstrom, $450.00

Today marks the First Day of Spring and there's nowhere I would rather be than PARIS!  Paris aka Le Ville de L'amour or "City of Love" happens to be one of my favorite cities in the world. It is the perfect place to walk around aimlessly and explore, for along almost every rue you will be greeted by a charming little bistro, patisserie and a trés chic boutique.  A croque madame and a glass of rosé and I am one happy girl!  Whether you are strolling along the Seine or strutting down the Champs Elysées (with a raspberry macaron from Ladurée and many shopping bags in tow if you are lucky) almost every sight in Paris is guaranteed to take your breath away.  The slightest glimpse of the Eiffel Tower peeking out from above the rooftops is sure to make your heart flutter, no matter how many times you have seen her.  Now that cherry blossoms are blooming all around Parc du Champ de Mars, she is even more spectacular...c'est magnifique! And the museums, oh the museums! You can't travel all the way to Paris without a visit to the Louvre, which is free on Sundays and Musée d'Orsay (my personal preference).  Nowhere else in the world can you marvel at some of the most famous and priceless works of art. Nowhere! 

Ahh Paris, tonight I will be dreaming of you... a bientôt, mon amour!

3.15.2013

green streak.



Currey & Co. Goddess Chandelier, Layla Grayce, $2631.00  |  Happy Chic by Jonathan Adler Charlotte Duvet Set, JC Penney, $160.00  |  Nate Berkus for Target Green Tortoise Shell, Target, $39.99  |  Bungalow 5 Chloe Armchair, Layla Grayce, $738.00  |  Kilim Lattice Rug, Rugs USA, $310.00 - $733.00  |  Garden Stool, One Kings Lane, $114.00  |  Dwell Studio Zebra Pillow, Zinc Door, $56.00

It is no surprise green is making its way into many interiors ever since Pantone named emerald as the Color of the Year for 2013.  Emerald is such a rich, beautiful color that really packs a punch when used as an accent or as a main color in a room.  I happen to be a fan of all shades of green- emerald, chartreuse, lime and jade, to name a few.  Use varieties of this hue to instantly energize or freshen up your home! Here is a glimpse of a few spaces that make me green with envy.







3.11.2013

easy diy reupholstery.

Here's the scenario: you have a piece of furniture or accent piece in your home that no longer matches your decor, but you just can't seem to part with it.  I feel that if you love a piece enough, you can usually find simple ways to jazz it up without having to spend much dinero.  Maybe it's an ottoman, a throw pillow, an accent chair, or in my case a vanity stool. 


So rather than ditching this perfectly good stool I decided to give it a quick zhush-ing with new fabric for the seat cushion.  This is such an easy DIY, even my Frenchie could do it (well maybe if he had opposable thumbs...you catch my drift!) All you need is fabric of your choice and a staple gun. I already had this fabric sample tucked away in my craft closet so this project cost me ZERO dollars.  Can't beat that!

First I unscrewed the base from the seat cushion.  Next, I lined my fabric up so it was centered on the cushion.  I flipped the cushion over and went crazy with the staple gun until the fabric was securely attached.  Then I just screwed the cushion back into the vase and...voila!




She's as good as new! 

3.08.2013

diaper bag swag.

My blogger and real life bestie Vanessa from One Social Brunette tagged me in a "Diaper Bag Swag" challenge. So today I am sharing with you what's in my diaper bag! As a first time mom everyone advises you to be prepared for all situations when you are on the go.  However, in my opinion, most moms overpack and I refuse to lug around a million things...after all, I never venture too far from home. I have managed to pare down my absolute essentials and here they are:


1. Neverfull GM, Louis Vuitton, $980.00: I love this bag so, so much! I found it difficult to find a diaper bag that was stylish and didn't scream "mom". Those that I did like were relatively costly, so I figured I would save my money and use this classic bag I already owned. It is roomy, has an interior pocket, and a hook to attach my keys. Perfect!

2. 'Tranquility' Bamboo Muslin Swaddle Blankets, aden + anais, 3 pack/$45.00: These blankets literally got ya covered. Not only are they super soft and comfy for your little peanut, but they serve so many purposes...blankie, nursing cover, burp cloth, and car seat cover! If any mamas out there don't own these, you better check yo'self.

3. Jonathan Adler for SKIP*HOP Pronto Diaper Changing Station,  buybuyBABY, $34.99: Since I didn't go the traditional "diaper bag" route I needed a cushiony pad to bring along to change my girl. This clutch is so great because when it's time for a diaper change you just grab it and go! About 5-6 diapers and a case of wipes fit nicely inside their own individual compartments.

4. Sophie la Girafe 'So Pure' Vanilla Teether, Nordstrom, $14.95: Sophie has got to be the most popular baby item out there. Lucca loves to chew on or squeeze everything in sight. This mini Sophie is the perfect size to bring out and about and she's cute to look at, to boot!

5. Rebecca Minkoff Luca Pouch, Shopbop, $88.00: This pouch named for designer Rebecca Minkoff's baby Luca may be my favorite item in my diaper bag.  This perfectly-sized pouch corrals all of my baby essentials in one place.  You heard me right! Everything I bring along for Lucca fits into this handy little thing.  It's nylon on the outside and inside to make for easy cleaning and has multiple pockets and zippered compartments labeled "sippy cup, pacifier, burp cloth" and even a pocket for mom!

6. Extra Outfit, Gap, $24.95: One outfit for backup is all I carry. This striped onesie from babygap is too adorable. If I could purchase every single item from babygap I would. Their clothing is so soft, wears and washes well and is down right precious.

7. Philips AVENT BPA Free Freeflow Pacifier, Babies 'R Us, $5.99: Pacifiers have been my life saver when I have a particularly cranky baby.  No one wants to be that mom with the baby crying uncontrollably at the store or in a restaurant (and if I do happen to be that mom please don't shoot me dirty looks. I know the crying is annoying and I know you can't tolerate it but I don't like it either. Thanks!)  This is the only kind she will take and most times it does help soothe my baby.

8. Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature Pacifier, Nipple, Teether & Toy Wipes, Babies 'R Us, $9.99: I can't tell you how many times a pacifier gets spit out or a teether gets thrown onto the floor. These wipes are great for a quick clean when you don't have a sterilizer handy.

Moms (and dads, too!) I want to hear from you.  What are your diaper bag must haves?

3.06.2013

wanderlust wednesday | aspen.

I like to consider myself a wanderlust aficionado and a professional daydreamer of sorts. So every Wednesday I'll be highlighting a new place that's on my bucket list.  Close your eyes and come away with me!

For the first installment of this series, let's jet off to Aspen, Colorado!

Faux Fur Trapper Hat, ASOS, $11.87  |  MK Jemma Aviators, Nordstrom, $116.00  |  Knitted Aztec Cardi, Topshop USA, $84.00  |  Sorel Tofino Boot, Nordstrom, $149.95 

This swanky ski town known as a hotspot for the rich and famous is the perfect winter getaway for this Florida girl. I've never been skiing before so I'm not sure how long I will last on the slopes, but I won't have a problem dressing like a snow bunny and taking part in the aprés ski scene. A Hot Toddy or Irish Coffee sounds divine! After a long day on the mountain and some high fashion shopping on Main Street, come time to slumber I'll be laying my head at the St. Regis Aspen.  This contemporary hotel at the base of Aspen Mountain is just the perfect mix of lodge meets luxury.

Who's coming with me?

3.04.2013

i've got the blues.

Well, not exactly. Allow me to explain myself.

Interior design has piqued my interest for as long as I can remember. Growing up my mama, who also has a keen eye for style, always consulted me on what color to paint the living room or which combination of throw pillows I preferred on our sofa and other matters of the like.  Just like most girls I fantasized about the idea of one day decorating my apartment in college and eventually having free reign to deck out my very own home.

Cut to March 2010. Just like any other day I made my daily trip to our mailbox only to find the "All About Blue" issue of House Beautiful.  


Yes, those pages are dogeared...this was before Pinterest, people!

As soon as my eyes met the cover I was completely enamored! The soothing shades of powder blues laced with some lavender and touches of gold accents whisked me away to another world.  I closed my eyes and envisioned myself right there in that gorgeous living room designed by Tobi Fairley. And as I devoured the rest of the magazine I was not disappointed.  More and more interiors in every shade of blue on the color wheel danced off of the page.  It was this moment that I realized I was utterly in LOVE with all things related to home decor.




I thought I would start this blog to share with you things that charm me- whether it be for the home, my latest fashion fixes or maybe a favorite recipe here and there (I am a decent cook, ya know)! My hope for you, my beloved friends and readers, is that you will visit Good Luxe Charm for the same inspiration and escape this image provides me. 

Follow my blog with Bloglovin