GET THE LOOK: HEAVY METAL

TREND ALERT: Gray is still going strong this Fall in rooms and on the runway. Leave the gray skies behind and venture to the darker side of the color palette to bring depth into your space. There is something unbelievably mysterious and sexy about heavy metal especially in interior spaces...but if you aren't married to a rockstar, clearly these rooms are the next best thing.

l-r: jonathan legate / betsy burnham

Achieve this look with dramatic contrasts of black, white, and gray. Next, embellish your look with pretty, shiny things. THINK SPARKLE. Silver, gold, diamonds, sequins, and nailheads all have reflective qualities that will take your style to the next level. Feeling daring? Add a bit of zebra print to the mix to satisfy that "wild hair."

1.| The VOLUSPA CANDLE IN BLACK FIGUE AND CHYPRE is both alluring and warm. The combination of currant and black figs is tamed by chypre, a soft floral perfume($27, candlesoffmain.com).

2.| The JENNY CHANDELIER, composed of abalone seashells is striking conversation piece in any room (price unknown, alicelanehome.com).

3.| Be the femme fatale of the fete in the CUTABOVE heels by Nine West ($79/ ninewest.com).

4.| Completely covered in sparkling sequins, the SASHA pillows always get the best seats in the house ($65, blisslivinghome.com).

5.| Former Project Runway contestant, Ivy Higa, has a Fall/Winter 2010 Collection of well cut basics that establish a foundation for any wardrobe (ivyh.net).

6.| Up in Smoke...THE HUNTLEY sofa in smoke is a modern winged sofa that is ultra swanky and surprisingly well priced! ($1,379, overstock.com)

7.| Take a chance and walk on the wild side with this STENCILED COWHIDE (price unknown, alicelanehome.com).

A MODERN MISCONCEPTION

Yesterday's interview with Nicole Sassaman started an internal dialogue about the misconceptions of modern spaces. Amy commented that she traditionally thought of modern as being cold, but after seeing images from Nicole's portfolio she had a change of heart. How delightful is it to discover an appreciation for a style that previously left you uninterested.  This is one of the main reasons why I love blogging.

Yes, modern can be warm and here's how you get the look...Add brown tones and natural elements to your home and wardrobe to heat up an otherwise cold aesthetic. Look for items consisting of warm woods, natural fibers, galvanized metal, patina finishes and items that have variations in texture.

1.|WILD ORCHIDS Matthew Williamson's Orchid Silk Strap Dress is a flirty take on this sensual floral ($380/on sale, matthewwilliamson.com).
2.|STRANGE FRUIT West Elm's Round Coco Mirror features coconut leaves and beads bringing texture and interest to any modern space ($199, westelm.com).
3.|A CUT ABOVE THE REST Jil Sander's laser cut calfskin and wood wedges will surely bring the daredevil out of any fashionista ($1,240, jilsander.com)
4.|FOXY BROWN IN LINEN West Elm's Sphere Table Lamp is curvaceous and willing to warm up your cold space like no other lamp could ($99, westelm.com).
5.|MAN OF THE HOUSE Diptyque 's Essence John Gailliano candle is mysterious, woodsy, and warm...just how I like my man! ($68, amazon.com).
6.|PILLOW TALK Crate and Barrel's Caney Teak Pillow ($59.95,crateandbarrel.com) is like a sisal rug, but for the sofa. Adam and Viktoria's Pillow in Pomegranate and Rust (contact for pricing, lisafontanarosa.com) is a wonderfully playful handmade work of art.
7.|WELL ROUNDED If you are looking for a dining room table, this may be the deal of the week. Pier 1's Clinton Pedestal Table is a hardy piece that boasts an amazing wood finish. Perfect for your small space ($349.98/on sale, pier1.com).
8.|WELL HELLO HANDSOME Crate and Barrel scored big with their introduction of the Blake Lounge Chair. Made from espresso solid teak, handwoven natural rattan, and full aniline leather this chair is best described as a refined, aged gentleman with major sex appeal ($799, crateandbarrel.com).

FASHION FRIDAY: FALL 2010 - AN AFFAIR WITH COLOR

Pardon me if today's Fashion Friday feature sounds more like a book of love letters. I have a weakness for Autumn, no other season is better. The turning of autumn leaves gives me comfort and reaffirms that change is good. The crisp Fall breeze is a relief from sweltering Summer and offers the best clothing no other season could. In your wardrobe and in your home these color combos are a guaranteed bet, the effect they have on you will be one you will never forget...

Orange spice and graphite, it's been a year since we've last connected. In Fall you are still first on my mind, the others are rejected.  Orange spice, your warm hue invigorates me and Graphite, you add instant sophistication when you appear. Chic, timeless, and dependable your style is so clear. Welcome back, I've missed you my dear.

fashion: elie tahari / interiors: tobi fairley

...with a side of dijon is what I said to the server, but it doesn't mean you play second fiddle. It's just that you bring such strength that I can only handle a little. Your potent hue gets me notices when I walk into the room.  The men all pause and the ladies do, too! At home you signify style even if I have none. You're so confident, when along side other colors, that you are an accent to every one. Oh, how I love a secure hue. Welcome back friend, I sure missed you.

fashion (1-r): versace, chris benz, versace / interiors: christina murphy

Cranberry and Caviar what can I say. You make him fall to his knees with your seductive sway. The passion you display is only for mature eyes to see, your deep reddish hue even makes me a little flirty. How dare you look so sexy especially on a high gloss wall? You give me a license to thrill when we are together each fall.

fashion: akris / interiors: christina murphy

I hope these love letters didn't leave a rosy tint on your face. Knowing you would read them, I left it in good taste. Which colors do you love in the Fall? You can have many lovers without feeling guilty at all. You're in good company so go ahead share with us. I promise we won't judge you on your color lusts...

SPECIAL GUEST: CHIC CHOCOLATE

Today's Fashion Friday post is brought to you by Sondra of Chic Chocolate. Creatively chic and soulfully styled, Chic Chocolate is a top fashion resource for fashionistas, stylistas, and urbanistas in Washington, DC and beyond. She graciously accepted my Room to Runway Challenge by presenting these amazing fashion and decor matchups using two of Fall 2010's hottest colors.

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photo credits:tranquiltownhouse.blogspot.com, style.com, neiman marcus

One way to have fun this fall is to indulge in feathers. You will find soft, wispy ostrich feathers on everything from headboards, skirts, shoes, and even lingerie. Accessorize your home with feathers by adding accent pillows dyed in scrumptious colors of chartreuse and fuchsia. Find these and more at Horchow.com or Calypso St. Barth.

 

photo credits: furniturestoreblog.com, style.com

Black and gold is a classic color combination that signifies tremendous wealth and opulence. Making brazen appearances on the runway and in our rooms, get a wild hair and try a golden fixture or a molten 24K dress.

photo credits: ehomee.com, style.com

According to a recent Pantone report, some of the hottest colors for Fall 2010 will be "Lipstick Red" and "Orchid Purple." Both colors were dominate on the runway of designer Carlos Miele Fall 2010 RTW Collection. Reds and purples signify deep passion. Not just relegated to clothing, be daring enough to try these emotionally charged colors in your home decor as accents in a neutral room.

photo credits:  house and garden, style.com

Recording artist, Prince, was the inspiration for Balmain's Fall 2010 RTW Collection. A regal color, purple and its various hues, look fantastic on just about any complexion and shockingly beautiful in your home.  Add a spark of purple, ultraviolet, aubergine, or eggplant to your home as seen in this festive table setting.

How will you incorporate these hot Fall colors in your home and/or wardrobe?

SMITTEN BY "DESIGNER" JEWELRY

If there is one thing I fall hard for it has to be unique, handcrafted jewelry. Because jewelry is so personal, I believe it can reveal a lot about the individual and their lifestyle. I came across The Work Chair necklace (below) by Montreal-based Bruxe Design while flipping through the August 2010 issue of Canadian House and Home. I went on to search for more like this and happened upon Australian based jeweler, Oye Modern...and that's when I fell in love with these...

The i Heart, The Pencil Shaving, and Saved You a Seat necklaces are handcrafted by Victoria Mason who finds inspiration in everyday household objects.  Clearly, any of these are worth a PDA (public display of affection). What a great way to showcase your passion for design!  
Which of these would you wear?

P.S. Click here to enter to win my CSN Stores Summer Giveaway! Contest ends 7/15.

SPECIAL GUEST: THE PEACH PROXY

Today's Fashion Friday post is brought to you by Kelli Flournoy of The Peach Proxy.  Her much anticipated blog has recently gone live and shows the everyday fashionista how to transform her wardrobe into a unique expression of the latest trends. She graciously accepted my runway to room challenge with this post entitled Double-Duty Denim. Please welcome Kelli to the blogosphere!

photo credits: mikkel vang for house beautiful; RED VALENTINO Stretch Denim Dress

In what ways have you been inspired to bring denim into your home's decor?

GOOD NEWS: APHROCHIC

Thanks to Hello, Splendor, I am the proud owner of an über stylish silk pillow from AphroChic! When I received the tweet Monday evening it felt like Christmas in June!

 I chose the Haze Silk Dove (the black and white ikat print) from the Dreamland Pillow Collection.  In addition to home decor, AphroChic also offers stylish tees!

If this photo gives any indication of what it's like to own something from the AphroChic Collection, then I'm in for a real treat!

Sidenote: Aside from having a rockin' home decor collection, AphroChic has a blog, written by Founder and Creative Director Jeanine Hays, that proves to be a valued design resource as well as a place for business chat. Jeanine is also a guest judge via twitter for this season of HGTV's Design Star!  Join her for conversation at www.twitter.com/aphrochic #designstar.

Pop over to Hello, Splendor and AphroChicBlog to say hello! Tell them I sent you!

FASHION FRIDAY: BECKHAM INSPIRED LIVING ROOM

Fashion Friday brings a little eye candy for the ladies and more design inspiration for the fellas. David Beckham has certainly made a name for himself as a fearless fashion influence both here in the States as well as Europe. As seen below, he has flawlessly pulled off the juxtaposition of a tailored yet relaxed look.

His shirt, tie, and cardigan paired with rugged, faded jeans inspired the perfect mood board for a bachelor's living room. Feast your eyes on this!

And there you have it...A room that is as sophisticated, sexy, and awaiting cuddle time with your lady or a game night with the guys. Men (and ladies), I would love your feedback...Don't be shy.

Until next time...take good care.

Fashion Friday: The Runway Palette by Cargo Cosmetics

Today's Fashion Friday post is really geared more towards makeup and beauty. The jumping off point...The Runway Palette by Cargo Cosmetics. Talk about adorable! This limited edition palette, available exclusively at Sephora, takes the guesswork out of applying Fall 2009's hottest runway looks. How clever are the button-embossed eye shadows and the "cable knitted" bronzer and blushes? The center palette is what Cargo calls the "Essential Palette in Gray." What are the runway makeup trends for Fall 2009? Try smoky gray eyes (using the essential palette), bronzed cheeks, nude lips, and pops of jeweled toned colors on the eyes...exciting enough to make you find somewhere to go. And my favorite look for all seasons, a full well-manicured brow.

The smoky eye can be a bit tricky and requires a bit of practice. I'm planning an honest attempt at this for my event Saturday night! A wrong move and I could be donning the raccoon look or even worst look as if I lost a boxing match. I'm planning to follow the instructions below. The first is an easy-peasy tutorial straight from the Cargo Cosmetics website. The other is a video I found on the New York Magazine site. Wish me luck and HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND. Ciao!
Watch the video below to learn how to recreate the smoky eye look at home.

Illuminated by Black and White

Sophisticated and timeless, black and white are a duo that never fails. When your decorating budget is slim to none, they never blow your cover. They get along beautifully with other colors and can make the novice decorator look like a bonafide pro. Here are a few lighting options in black and white (and transparent) at various price points. Which are your favorites?

{Bourgie Lamp by Kartell, Kulla Pendant Lamp - Ikea}

{Mother of Pearl Pendant Light by Jaime Young Lighting,

PS Maskros - Ikea}

The sheer black shades of this next set remind me of hosiery and the latest legging crazy that's popping up on the streets and the runways of New York. This may be one of the few wearable trends of Fall 2009. You be the judge.

{Clarita Collection Chandelier by Artcraft,
Shimmer Chandelier by Vienna Full Spectrum}

{Starburst Table Lamp and Cabaret Table Lamp, both @ Spiegel.com}

If you so choose to rock this latest trend, by all means please know the difference between tights and legging (pants)! .

An anonymous person feels so passionate about this offense that they have created a website warning against this very fashion faux pas...and it is hilarious. The site also has downloadable DIY press kit and printable flyers. I'm serious, click the image below to see for yourself.

Thoughts on Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week

Isn't it ironic that when Labor Day passes we take on the essence of the Fall season (especially our wardrobe) only to have Mercedes Benz Fashion Week bring our focus to Spring 2010. I find it a bit difficult to even consider warm-weather clothing when I am looking forward to stylish boots and sweaters, hats, coats and scarves. Could it be in order to afford some of these designer duds we need to save two whole seasons to purchase Spring's "it" garments? Just a silly thought...

Last night I came across an interesting article that questions the need for fashion week. The writer raises some thought provoking questions:

• We all know our economy has changed consumer attitudes and fashion week this year is not the same as three years ago. So...is fashion week still relevant in this economic landscape?

• How can a designer remain relevant in the fashion industry when most of the designs are being replicated by fast retailers and being copied worldwide before the pieces have hit the stores?
  

The author further backs her point of view with a statement made by Diane von Furstenburg during a CFDA fashion week town hall meeting,

“The consumer has been trained to buy on sale. The clothes in stores are not in season, so she is confused. Why should she go out and spend money early in the season, when in fact come September and October, when the season actually changes, the next season is there and it’s called resort? We are putting all the energy into something that the consumer isn’t really getting, because by then it’s on sale."

Ah-ha, so designers do get it after all...I thought it was just me! I hate how retailers rush into the next season in the midst of the current season!

By no means do I stand in opposition of Fashion Week, but in the state of our current economic conditions I'm waiting expectantly to see just how creative designers will be in making their creations affordable and what will become the new normal regarding what we pay for the designer look? Your thoughts?

Anyhoo, in case you are still interested in what's been going on, here's a sneak peak the Spring 2010 Collection of one of my favorite young and hip designers Christian Siriano.

{images via Mercedes Benz Fashion Week website,
Siriano photos via NY Mag}

Brake for Beauty: Essie's New Fall Collection

With autumn creeping up on us, though you wouldn't know it here in HotLanta, there is still time to show off a mani/pedi in one of Essie's new fall collection colors. With names like Chinchilly, Pink Parka, and Mink Muffs, I feel the cool, crisp autumn breeze already.Looking at the new palette, I am instantly drawn to the color combination of Chinchilly, Midnight Cami, and Pink Parka. Not for my nails, but for a luxurious bedroom suite design...any takers?

Since now we're on the subject of decor (surprise, surprise) I must invite you to view the interior of my favorite nail salon, Polished Beauty Lounge in Smyrna where the decor brightens the dreariest of days. Flocked fuschia wallpaper covers the wall in the waiting/lounge area and the manicure stations have the most lovely lucite-legged chairs. The seats don a teal and fuschia botanical print that is soft, feminine, and sophisticated. The glossy white floors and pristine, white ceramic sinks shout modern elegance and of course cleanliness!

I should also mention you can reserve the space for spa parties (which they do quite frequently) so call ahead to schedule an appointment...I had to learn the hard way! Anyway, check them out and tell me about your experience!