Wish List: Happy Chic by Jonathan Adler

Happy Chic by Jonathan Adler for JCP (yes, JCPenney) is one of my favorite home decor lines. This collection is punchy, in-budget and ultra chic. Jonathan Adler is known for his splashy color schemes and playful graphics. Happy Chic can be exclusively found at JCP. Shop online or in-store to add a little flavor to your domestic dwelling place.

Here's a few of my favorite pieces at the moment:
// Upholstered Headboard //
// Throw Blanket //
// Decorative Pillow //
// Elephant Bookends //
// Indoor/Outdoor Rug //
// Navy Armchair //

I love the blue, white and gold color scheme.  Don't you?

The Midi

Get out your razor, there's still time to show off those gorgeous gams this winter! What I'm talking about is the midi skirt. Midi = mid length. I'm loving the classic silhouette of this length, don't you? It is very 50s, young Audrey Hepburn; sophisticated and chic. Vogue even claimed it the new hemline for Spring 2014.  

So, go simple on top and let the hemline do all the talking. Dig around for a clutch that will make a statement and throw on a pair of  understated black pumps.  It is critical that the midi hemline be paired with a heel (sorry, you've got to leave your flats at home!). Go easy on the jewelry unless you intend to really glam things up.  I would suggest some crystal drop earrings.

All of the above styles can be found at ASOS. All of which, by the way, are under $100/each.

From L // R

Sequin midi skirt

Leather midi skirt

Lace maxi skirt

What are your thoughts on this midi-length skirt? Please, share your thoughts.

Quintessentially Plaid

Here's a few of my favorite plaid pieces at the moment:

1. Target Merona Plaid Blazer; $35

2. Burberry Brit Perfume; $64

3. Old Navy Plaid Scarf; $17

4. JCrew Factory Classic Button Down Shirt; $45

Plaid is hot on the scene right now and I loving every second of it.  Plaid is equal parts prep and punk and I am blown away by its versatility.

Months ago, this pattern could have been coined “dowdy or stuffy” or “something found only in your grandma’s closet”... not the current banter of… “this is so chic, gotta have it!”  

Plaid is easy enough to wear as an accessory (think: scarf, iPhone case, etc.) or you can go all out with a bold jacket or pant. 

I would start with a scarf and build out from there.  A scarf is a low-cost option for testing the trend without having to spend an arm and a leg.  My advice when picking out plaid: think Burberry, think London, think uber-classic and uber-chic.  Perhaps try to stay away from colors other than the originals: red, navy, hunter green, beige, black.. etc. (you get the picture!)--the point is to keep this look classic.

What are your thoughts?  Are you amped for plaid this season or do you think the pattern should remain in granny's closet?

Jessica Alba: Serious Style Envy

Let's get this straight, Jessica Alba is no novice in the fashion world.  She's got an incredible sense of style and has a body to kill.  The reason I love this look so much is her play on texture and pattern.  The rouge lip and sassy leopard print bag seal the deal on this casual yet chic ensemble.  You, too, can recreate this look with minimal effort.  Better yet, you may already have some of these essentials stowed away in your closet!

This is what you'll need:
1. A leopard/animal print over-sized clutch
2. A soft, plaid button down shirt (long or short sleeve)
3. A pair of high-waisted, dark wash denim skinny jeans
4. A tube of luxurious mauve lip rouge
5. A studded black or polka dot black belt
6. A pair of gem colored pointed toe pumps

Throw your hair up in a fuss-free bun and... your done!

What do you love most about this look?

Military Chic: Camo on the Streets!

I adore the military camo jacket, don't you?  Its just a perfect jacket for fall weather.

Here's a few of my favorite styling techniques:
one: Mixing patterns - camo, plaid and leopard
two: Casual approach w/ flats
three: Rough & tough - camo w/ leather
four: Neon accent for some cool flair

I love this fun, laid-back utilitarian style.  Perfect for the weekend, after hours, drinks with friends or running errands. There seems to be a whole variety of different styles of camo jackets available in stores right now but I think my favorite style is one that hits just below the mid-thigh area. I recommend looking for a jacket that allows for some cinching around the waist to appear more structured; unless you love the tomboy/boyfriend slouchy look (which is totally cool, too)!  I would, however, avoid any cropped-jacket styles just to remain on-trend.

These three styles are to die for (all priced under $150):
JCPenney, BCBGeneration, Anthropologie

Are you ready to mix some military chic into your fall wardrobe?

Simple as this: Jeans & a White Tee

What is more chic than a pair of jeans & a white tee?  Tough question.  I absolutely love this look.  This styling technique gives you a chance to forgo statement accessories and go back to the basics.

Why?

Throw on a pair of heels and you are prepped for hitting the town in style.  Throw on a blazer or your favorite jacket of the season and you quickly look polished with minimal effort.  Grab a colorful or embellished clutch and you're out the door.  Done, done... done.

And, let's be honest here, who doesn't own a pair of jeans and a white shirt?  I think a button down oxford shirt or a classic white t-shirt look equally as phenomenal.  I have no preference between the two.  This look is the complete opposite of fussy--so don't try too hard, just keep it simple!  

Last topic of discussion, do you follow the "no white after Labor Day" rule or do you throw that rule out the window and wear what you please?  I feel slightly conflicted by said "rule"; however, I believe the choice is up to you.  If you feel confident in wearing lighter colors in the fall/winter--go right on ahead!  It's personal choice.  Chances are, I'll probably be wearing white, too.

Above; from L to R
1.  Some fresh French flair
2.  Paris Fashion Week Spring '14 - Street Style
3.  Olivia Palermo

DIY: Wall Art

Feeling inspired by these looks?  Me too!  Check out these fun wall decor ideas that will add pizzazz to your walls without paying a fortune.  

1.  I am dying to try this modern mosaic paint on canvas; but, I think I'd modify by using a narrower strip of tape (or, use a variety of different tape widths to create less white space).  Buy a blank canvas at a craft or art supply store.  Buy acrylic paints, a paint brush and painters tape (or scotch tape).  Glitter and Modge Podge is optional but always encouraged.  So simple, you could even have kids join in on the fun (if applicable!).

2.  How easy is this?  Seriously.  Search "silhouettes" in Google and your possibilities for creativity are endless.  Depending on the theme or look you're going for, there is a "silhouette" for everything!  Print images on regular white computer paper.  Pick out some simple frames at a craft, home or department store and hang as a collection!

3.  Again, could this DIY craft get any simpler?  All you need to do is purchase some pre-carved ceiling rosettes (find at your local home improvement store) from $8 to $20 dollars each.  Next, paint the ceiling medallions in graduated shades of a single paint color of your choice.  The medallions are light-weight and easy to hang.  This hanging display covers a lot of surface area and packs a lot of bang for your buck!

Now... if only I could add a few hundred square feet to my apartment to follow through on these fun decorating ideas!

Ciao! 

Put the Clutch In

A vibrant clutch adds the perfect amount of flair to any summer outfit.  Realistically, size does matter.  The BIGGER the better.  Don't be afraid to make a serious statement when selecting this must-have summer accessory.  Dare to be bold and invest in an over-sized, envelope-style; neon, floral or sparkly metallic clutch.  Tis the season to strut your stuff; why not carry an attention-grabbing clutch while you're at it?

Home Furnishings

Rugs? Yes.  Lighting? Yes.  Throw pillows?  Yes, please.  

Safavieh has it all.  And, today on ideeli, was a featured boutique vendor.  Before today, I had no brand recollection of Safavieh, but now, I’ll consider myself an absolute fanatic.  Chic, stylish and unexpected prints, patterns and color.  What more could you ask for in home décor?   

Consider this: you plan your wardrobe to a certain extent and you want it to reflect your personal style, correct?  Safavieh décor is an absolute reflection of personal style and intrigue but in the form of home furnishings.   

If ever I win the lottery or become god-awfully rich overnight, you can make certain a plethora of Safavieh home furnishings will adorn my living quarters.  Until that time arrives, I can day dream and pin to my hearts content on Pinterest.

Take a gander at some of ideeli’s discounted Safavieh merchandise.  If you are inspired enough to purchase from ideeli, think fast!  Ideeli boutiques are available for a limited time and products are available until supplies last.  It’s a dog eat dog world out there, folks.  Or you can be old fashioned and just check out Safavieh's website and drool along with me.

What are your favorite home décor websites, retailers, or brand names?