My Friend Mickey

In life there are those who constantly inspire you. My friend Mickey is undoubtedly one of those people. Amazingly innovative, truly original, mind-blowingly on trend, historically informative, unapologetically pragmatic, with a keep you on your toes energy; her home is no different. Every time I step foot into her meticulously decorated house I am reminded that design at any capacity is truly just being yourself and reaching into your soul to pull out the darkest, brightest, nitty-gritty thing that sets you apart from the mass.

SEE MICKEY AT DUCKYSHINKCRACKERS

Sunday at Home: Los Angeles

The new LA loft was such a blast to decorate. My inspiration came from the surrounding downtown art (especially graffiti), local events, the garment district, and the flower mart. I knew I wanted a color palette just as exciting so "feel the energy" green sounded like the perfect paint color. To check out my initial mood board CLICK HERE

Market Research and Report

WHAT'S HOT WHAT'S NOT? I hit the streets last week to gather inspiration and knowledge of current market trends in silhouettes, colors, fabrics, trims, details and hot sellers. Here is a trend board of what I observed while shopping everywhere from high-end retailers: Nordstrom LA, fast fashion: Forever21, and my very favorite vintage shop: Deja Vu Palm Springs.

TOP TRENDS (HOT): Metallic blends, sequin trim, purple and black, foiled suede, leather appliques, mesh sleeves, sheer sleeves, treated leather, long shirt tails, geometric cut-outs, matte black, nude and gray palettes, mermaid hemlines, microfiber Viscose, matte jersey, sheer burnout maxi skirts, 70's silhouettes, asymmetrical necklines, and an endless supply of GOLD AND SILVER.

ON THE SALE RACK (NOT): Oversized crop shirts, pink and maroon, lace dresses, cashmere, feather vests and details, mustard yellow and turquoise, raglan sleeve knits, A-line skirts.

Down the Block

I was walking down Olympic in downtown LA yesterday on my way to the Cal Mart and was stopped dead in my tracks by a grungy old building covered with fantastic graffiti. Inspiration isn't always found in glamorous or beautiful places. 

Summer Stems

This week has been all about the stems. While reviewing my personal photography from the past week I noticed that every photo is centered around the stems of a wardrobe, dashing model, intriguing shoe, or that of the botanical variety. I guess you could call it my obsession of the week. Summer is finally here; wild flowers are in bloom and bare legs are back! Here are a few of my favorite shots from the San Diego loft, styling assignments, and an Angel Status shoot on the USS Midway.

California Cycling

Torrey Pines & Proenza Schouler

Art and nature go hand in hand, so it’s never a surprise to me when I am strongly reminded of a favorite fashion collection while in Mother Nature’s presence. This week it happened to be when hiking in The La Jolla Mt. Reserve. All I could think was Proenza Schouler S/S 11. The combination of watercolored beach, dry cactus, sandy wood lined trail, and luscious flora screamed Schouler Spring Runway. 

M.Dot Design Spring 2011 Show

This Saturday at the SE Hotel, super talented San Diego designer Michelle Aquino revealed her Spring/Summer 2011 ready wear line at the downtown SE Hotel. Her looks are masterfully constructed, bright and full of life. Yet another spirited collection from Aquino a cali designer with her hand continuously on the hipster pulse. I was honored to be a part of the show and cant wait to see what Aquino comes up with next. More from M.DOT Design

You've Got Mail

(California Highway 74)

(3.1 Phillip Lim dress, Dolce Vita booties, vintage floppy hat)

The Parker

Norma’s was absolutely amazing, the food was delish, service was right on, and the ambiance was just what Sunday brunch should be. The open-air surroundings of the restaurant oozed Jonathan Adler. The Parker itself was just as impressive. It’s a stylish oasis of towering palm trees, landscapes gardens, and electric interior design. When visiting Palm Springs I definitely recommend mimosas, brunch and a stroll of the grounds at the stylishly retro Parker.

Palm to Pines Highway

(Jimmy Choo 'Belize' wedge)

(Joie linin shirt, Beyond Vintage blazer, sequin shorts 6126, Alexis Bittar jewels)

Old Hollywood Glamour meets Cabin in the Pines. Scenic drive through the California mountains, snow flurries, impromptu photoshoots, retro stay at my fav. boutique hotel the Orbit Inn, brunch at the Parker, wine, card games and vintage & designer resale shopping Palm Springs style.

Sunday at Home: San Diego

Fantastic Butterfly decor I found at ZGallerie next to a framed Marc Jacobs ad campaign and vintage metallic disco lamp. Marley the cat napping on Natuzzi couch with handmade pillows (thanks Mickey) Picked up fabric for pillows at Mood in New York last summer. 

The framing project that took forever! Snapshots of friends and family mixed in with vintage magazine spreads from 90's Vanity Fair and original black and white photographs of my uber stylish grandparents from the 40's