sadie + stella

Monday Musings: Mad Men Inspired

2012-03-05T07:37:00.004-05:00

Lovelies! Good A.M. to you all. Did you all have a marvelous weekend? Was it filled with fabulousness? Knowing you gals, I am quite certain it was. Let's get down to business. Does anyone else in the class have a serious obsession with Mad Men? Well. If you don't you should. In case you were not aware, the new season is starting sooner than soon. But not soon enough by my standards. Besides my obvious obsession with the story line and the drama filled drama, I beyond adore the decor and fashion. That era says opulence, color, clean lines and above all else...drama. It is mid century modern on its most glammed up day. Let's explore my musings on this glorious Monday. Mad Men inspired interiors. Duh.

Holy. Holy. This room is me. I am this room. I could not love it more than I do. Where to start? Honestly the painting displayed above the fireplace absolutely makes this room. It makes everything cohesive, but also adds pops of needed warm hues. Those plush green velvet chairs are the absolute most and we definitely die over the accent table to boot.

{haute khuuture}

Another angle of this perfect space. Who is loving the trim on the armoire? Perfect. And the little breakfast table seen here? I would commit petty theft for that chandelier. In love. The wallpaper seen in these spaces definitely exudes the era we are going for and we could not love it more.

Ok. So this is not home decor, however, it is amazeballs. Is it not? This is the American Restaurant in Kansas City (my hometown) back in the 70's. Can we say opulent? I absolutely die over the attention to detail exercised in this space. Those ceilings are beyond unique and definite stunners. Gold will never be old to me. It is bold. I am clearly on a rhyming scheme here. A very bad one at that. I digress. Can't you see the cast of Mad Men dining here?

{dwell}

A refined, clean mid century modern space. So maybe this is Don Draper's summer home? The low profile and simple lines used within the space bring the room into the mid century modern category. We spy an Ikea Sputnik hack. It is the perfect amount of bling and glam for this perfectly understated space.

{apartment therapy}

This space is Mad Men in modern times. All of the light fixtures seen here take us to a different time, and in a good way. As you all know, I can't ever have enough blackcents. The use of pops of bold color, simple lines and drama are definitely what place this room into another era. Drama people. The use of a go to pattern like an exploded houndstooth brings simplicity yet interest into the room.

Another view of this awesome space. We always love a good horse figurine. As you all are well aware. Side note, love that little adorned drum side table. Hello throwback.

{cwb}

Another functional and clean lined space. All of the major pieces to this puzzle are definitely mid century modern. Definitely. I do however, enjoy the unique lighting used, as well as, the interesting piece of art. It brings a bit of whimsy and needed color to the room. I could see Don Draper sitting to have a meal or two here. Dreamy Don.

{pinterest}

A present day take on mid century modern. I am in love with the gallery wall of sketch drawings, photographs and turtle shells. Turtle shells?!?! Yes. Turtle shells. This person was definitely a big fan of Michaelangelo and Donatello. Although such a small accessory, the bud vase with the beautiful magenta flowers could not be a more perfect fit here. They add just the perfect pop of bold color in a perfectly neutral bedroom.

{elle decor}

Ahhhhh. Don Draper as I live and breathe. Seriously?! Can you see the crew throwing back a few here? This bar is truly insane and I am sure it is every man's dream. If this was a version of the (and I cringe to even utter the overused words) "man cave", I may be able to get on board. The matching herringbone seating here can not be beat. Who is playing bartender?

{houzz}

Do it. Well except for the smoking part.

We hope you all have a fabulous Monday. I hope to stay in a dazed and confused state all through the day in order to forget that it is Monday and that I would rather be home watching Mad Men reruns in my pajamas. I have such incredible demands. Love, L+L

S+S chow: what's for lunch?

2012-03-02T07:32:00.001-05:00

Happy Friday sweet things! I often grow tired of the same ol' lunches day in and day out. Do you have the same problem? How about spicing it up with one of these creations?!

This "sort of a hero sandwich" looks amazing. Filled with with portobellos, tomatoes, onions and peppers, how could you go wrong? It looks to me like the perfect sandwich for a spring picnic!

{martha stewart}

Mr. Reuben. You are calling my name with all of your deliciousness. Why do I all of a sudden feel the need for a reuben, because it is now March?

{the parsley thief}

The Pioneer Woman NEVER disappoints. I mean never ever. This steak sandwich is no exception. I think this might need to happen on my lunch break today. Yes, yes it does.

{pioneer woman}

We hope you have a weekend filled with fabulous spring fun, and tasty lunches too! Love, L+L

do you love us? please say you do.

2012-03-01T16:03:00.003-05:00

How much do you love us? Hopefully a whole lot. Enough to vote for us over at Apartment Therapy's Best Home Design Blog Contest? We hope you will. We will and do love you all this much!

{pinterest}

Design Crush: Tracery Interiors Romantic Retreat

2012-03-01T07:01:00.002-05:00

Happy 1st Day of March! Is that a holiday? No. No it isn't. Even though it isn't even close to spring yet, it kind of feels like the beginning of the season. It is all in my head. It has been a whirlwind around here lately, girls. That being said, we are going to leave you with these lovely images from a design crush of ours, Tracery Interiors. We love the crisp, clean, monochromatic and romantic vibe this house has. It is truly glam and I for one, would like to move in tomorrow. Please and thank you.

House Beautiful

Happy Thursday dahlings. Love, L+L

...and a winner shall be named. A Cozamia winner that is.

2012-02-29T12:52:00.002-05:00

The lucky, ducky girl who wins the Cozamia print of her choosing, is...

Dara from Dara Designs!! Dara said:

I just started following S&S I LOVE Candy Mountains! and Brittle Stars (Baby Blue! I NEED them both in my life.

Thank you to all of you lovelies that participated in this more than amazing giveaway! Until the next one! Love, L+L

Favorite Room Feature: Pink Wallpaper

2012-02-29T07:10:00.001-05:00

Morning dollfaces. Today class, we have a very special guest. The fabulous and lovely Shannon from Pink Wallpaper is here to share her most favorite space of all. Her kitchen. Before we get to her favorite space, here is one of her many fabulous spaces she has thrown together, that you just might be familiar with.

{powder room re-do}

Told ya. She's fabulous. On to her kitchen...

hey sadie + stella readers i am shannon from pink wallpaper!!! thanks so much for inviting me to be part of y'alls series!! we moved into our house a little over a year ago and it is constantly a work in progress.....so when i was asked to show my favorite room, i didn't really know which to show. but i decided on my kitchen b/c after all, it's where everything happens. and it got a makeover right when we moved in. our house was built in the 1950's but the kitchen had been updated by the previous owners. there was nothing wrong with it but i really wanted painted cabinets and a wall color that would fit more in my color palette. so here is the before (MSL pic and the our chaos once we moved in):

i decided on a greige color for the cabinets and had painters come in and paint over the existing stained ones...while i would love to say that i was cool enough to tackle this project myself, i'm not. i left it to the professionals!! we also added a subway tile backsplash that my husband and dad did and some new lights.

now i feel like our kitchen works for us.....which is great b/c we have a lot of fun in it!! thanks so much for inviting me girls!!! it was fun to look back at the process!!

xo- Shannon/ Pinkwallpaper

S+S dog chow: homemade dog biscuits courtesy of stella + billie

2012-02-28T06:59:00.003-05:00

Stuff just got real around here. The girls decided that their accustomed meals of dog food, rawhides, and meaty bones were no longer cutting it for their dietary needs. They needed something different. Something unique. Something real. Something cheesy. Something bacon-y. Yes. Bacon-y. Threats were made. Demands were met. Stomachs were happy. Here is what happened...

Once upon a time, there was a dog named Stella. Stella became bored and indifferent towards her traditional, and once favorite, rawhides. She reached a point in her life where 32 rawhides surrounding her in a perfect formation no longer cut it. I think one would deem this as spoiled. Look at that face.

In this same time we are upon, there was a girl named Billie. Billie grew tired of the common phrase heard around her house, "Maid's Day Off." Ok, so it is more like Maid's Bi-Annual Off. But who is counting? Oh wait. Billie is. Billie threatened that if her demands were not met, homemade cheddar bacon biscuits, that this photograph would grace its way across the web. I informed her this was extortion. Now you all see what we live in. An episode of Hoarders.

Cheesie Bacon Biscuits (Bullwrinkle)

Ingredients:

3/4 cup whole wheat flour

1/2 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. salt

1 stick margarine, softened

2/3 cup brown sugar

1 egg, slightly beaten

1 1/2 tsp. vanilla

1 1/2 cups regular oats, uncooked

1 cup (4 oz.) shredded cheddar cheese

2/3 cup wheat germ (I substituted additional whole wheat flour and honey)

1/2 lb. bacon, cooked crisp, drained, and crumbled

Directions:

Combine flour, soda and salt; mix well and set aside. Cream butter and sugar; beat in egg and vanilla. Add flour mixture, mixing well. Stir in remaining ingredients.

Drop dough by rounded teaspoons onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 350 for 16 minutes. Cool on baking sheet for a minute or so before removing to cooling rack.

Does anyone find it socially unacceptable that while making this dish I was so tempted to eat the batter? That is so embarrassing to admit but it is the truth. There is my skeleton in the closet.

I added a little fancy here and got myself a dog bone shaped cookie cutter and went to town. Stella requested that I class the dish up a bit.

And the bones in their baked state.

Stella and Billie said it is all about the presentation and nutrition. Details people. Details. How can one give their dogs ordinary dog food when these are sitting around? Pretty sure bacon and cheese are integral parts of the food pyramid around these parts. Stells and Bills gave this recipe 5 pawprints.

Last and final day to enter the Cozamia giveaway! Do not miss out. Trust. Loves! L+L

monday musings: spring has sprung interiors

2012-02-27T07:43:00.002-05:00

That's right. It is February and Spring has DEFINITELY sprung here in NC. Temperatures are unseasonably warm, the sun is shining, and I swear things are in bloom. This bizarre weather has us ready for the Spring season. That means fun florals, pastels and light and airy spaces. We love how the start of a new season gives a sense of starting fresh. These spaces are fresh to death.

How 'bout that bone in-laid chest of drawers?!!! Loves it. We love the slight femininity and delicacy that this room exudes. Those bubble gum pink floral drapes are so lovely we cannot even stand it. Doesn't this room just make you want to frolic in a meadow somewhere? Sure.

{absolutely beautiful things}

Ok. Ok. We know this kelly green backdrop for this room is different. But it works. We love the unusual floral upholstered headboard here. The intricate curves and tufting are absolutely amazing. This room is the perfect instance of Spring, springing.

{amber interiors}

This space is so light and airy and we absolutely love it. The pops of chartreuse and purple add the perfect amount of blooming colors to bring this aesthetic into the springy category. That bamboo bed??! Need it. Now.

{turquoise tulips and bliss}

Onward and upward to our Spring-like powder rooms. This wallpaper is in full bloom my friends. How gorgy is this?! We love that the accessories are simplified in this space in order to let the walls do the talking. Except for that amazing chartreuse, velvet, tufted ottoman. It had to be said. It's ah-mazing.

{knight moves blog}

Another wonderfully Spring, floral wallpapered space. Again, the simplicity of the accessories do not deter from the loveliness that resides on that walls. Who loves those monogrammed towels? Yes, yes we do.

{la dolce vita}

Ok. You girls know we never met a stripe that we didn't like. This room is no exception. The robin's egg blue striped walls give us such a spring like feeling we cannot even handle it. Those carrera marble exposed sinks are truly stroke worthy. Organization friendly? No. Aesthetically pleasing. Beyond. We also cannot resist any space with a vase full of fluffy hydrangeas.

{cottages-gardens}

On to lovely pastel, Springy kitchens. We are definitely digging the robin's egg blue look. This kitchen is beyond light and airy and is nothing short of gorgeous. We could see ourselves cooking many meals in here. Or opening take out boxes. Tomato, toe-mahto.

{veranda}

A chartreuse kitchen. I really never thought I could love something such as this and I absolutely do! For some reason the space feels so inviting. We would have opted for a different shade of flooring rather than going completely monochromatic, but to each his own. Side note: Kermit lives here.

{pink wallpaper}

We love an all white space with pops of color! Especially when the pops of color happen to be turquoise! Those matching lanterns are absolutely to die for. This room has got Spring going on.

{ne home mag}

Lovers. Try and have a fabulous Monday. Also, do not let the amazing Cozamia giveaway slip through your tiny fingertips. It ends tomorrow. Get after it, girls!

S+S chow: citrus cocktails

2012-02-24T07:35:00.004-05:00

It's been a whirlwind of a week for us dear readers. We are in need of a good drink and a good laugh this weekend to unwind. The weather is warming up a bit here and the thought of sitting on the porch, sipping one of these delectable cocktails sounds divine. What are your plans for the weekend??

Blood Orange Margarita

{white on rice couple}

Champagne, Clemetine, & Limoncello

{un dejeuner de soleil}

Happy Friday darlings!! Love, L+L

S+S design: understated glam

2012-02-23T07:11:00.002-05:00

Darlings! Are you all ready for some design this morning? We are lucky girls and have the privilege of working with the most fab clients there ever were! This client is no exception. Annnd we not only get to work with her on one space, but on four! It's like a dream come true. This client lives deep in the heart of Texas. She is classy, sassy and...(I do not have another rhyming adjective). She is just fabulous. We have decided that her home must exude an understated glam aesthetic. Let's do this.

Our client has a dining room table currently that works perfectly in the space, so we were mindful of that. We included a table that we think should serve as the inspiration for color that the table should be painted. To accompany the table are the banded Parson Chairs that will look elegant and chic in the space. We have included charcoal gray velvet drapery into the space to bring some drama, along with the scalloped, glamorous chandelier. The mirrors seen in this board are a series of mixed sized distressed convex mirrors. This brings a little whimsy and funk into the space, without being super permanent. Our fave find for the project: the wallpaper. We absolutely DIED when we saw it. It is a neutral gray hemp wall covering adorned with copper grommets. This brings the perfect amount of edge into the dining room that would otherwise be lacking. We think it is an absolute show-stopper. To tie it all together, the two toned neutral rug.

We think this buffet brings so much charm and interest into the space. It is so unique and we love its down to earth feel with the distressed wood. Not too distressed of a look though, with the mirrored panels on the front. Again, adds the perfect amount of glamour. We have included two fabulous light fixtures to flank the buffet. There is a great amount of adornment on the lamps and we think it definitely works. Our client is in Texas and we were really feeling the need to add an equestrian art piece in the space. We love the black/white/gray color scheme happening here. It doesn't mess with the elements in the room. It ties it everything together and blends in. We couldn't be happier with the way this room came together! Stay tuned for more spaces from this clients home soon!

For any of you interested in our design services and are looking to get additional information, email us at sadieandstella@gmail.com.

Favorite Room Feature: The Long and Short of It

2012-02-22T07:02:00.000-05:00

Today, the adorable and lovely Jessie from The Long and Short of It is sharing her perfectly collected and perfectly eclectic space. Jessie has a super fun blog that focuses on life, style, design and...drumroll please...her two perfect dogs! Ahhh a woman after our heart. We adore her and know you will too!

I am Jessie from The Long and Short of It and I am thrilled to be a part of sadie + stella's Favorite Room Feature. It is one of my favorite series. I love getting a peek into other people's homes. I feel honored the ladies asked me to be a part of the series. They have some serious style.

I have never met a stripe I didn't like. My poor husband painted stripes. Yes, we are still married if you were wondering.

I consider myself spoiled because Furbish is right down the road. I had some of my Mom's old wingbacks recovered and Jamie whipped up some pillows in my favorite fabric of all time.

I recently started a ginger jar collection that I am obsessed with. Collector sounds better than hoarder.

Most of the furniture in our house is from Craigslist or estate sales. I love a good mix of new and vintage.

My favorite accessories are my puppies, Hank and Roy. My house would not be a home without them and they know how to work them camera.

We love Cozamia + Cozamia loves you = Giveaway.

2012-02-21T07:06:00.000-05:00

We said it. You read it. Oh happy day! Is anyone else totally dragging this week? I am not sure what it is. Maybe it is that huge rager I had for President's Day yesterday. If you are not observing President's Day to the extreme, you are missing out. It is the next "up and coming" holiday. To those of you shaking your head right now, remember where you heard it first, S+S. When President's Day is widely celebrated by people dressing up as their favorite US president and lining the streets, think of us. Patriotic. (I am delusional and need to go back to bed.)

Anyhow! Are you all well acquainted with Cozamia? We came across their fabulous pieces about a year ago and have had an unhealthy obsession ever since. All of Cozamia's pieces exude femininity, boldness and modernism. We have time and time again used them in various spaces we have designed, and they DEFINITELY tie the space together. Soooo. What you really want to know here. Cozamia has been so lovely and generous that they have decided to giveaway any 16x20 print to one lucky reader. Which one you ask? Any piece you choose! Serious. Let's familiarize ourselves with some of our favorites.

{electric garden blue}

Have you seen enough? Ridiculous question. How to win a 16x20 print of your choosing (you guys are spoiled):

You must be a follower of S+S {if you already are, you are fabulous. If not, just click the little follow button over near the top right column} Visit Cozamia and come back here to comment and let us know what piece you would choose should you win this super major giveaway.

For additional entries you can:

Like Cozamia on Facebook
Like Sadie + Stella on Facebook
Follow Sadie + Stella on Twitter

*Be sure to leave a comment each time you do one of the above!

This giveaway ends Tuesday, February 28th at midnight. Don't miss out.

monday musings: stripes on stripes

2012-02-20T07:12:00.003-05:00

Darlings! How lovely are we today? We had quite the little Winter Wonderland here in NC last night. Too bad it didn't carry over into the Monday workday. Sigh. Today we are going nutso over stripes. Such a go to, traditional and reliable pattern. But today, these are not any stripes. No, no, no. These are mix and match stripes, bold hued stripes, floor stripes, ceiling stripes and wall stripes. We have it all covered. Don't worry girls, not only are we loving stripes in decor, but also fashion. Each space has inspired a look for us. We plan on wearing that look in the particular space. Stripes on stripes. Let's hype the stripe, shall we?

We love the bold use of color on this striped staircase. This image has forever been a love of ours. Such drama with the wall sized photograph. We too, often look out of a paper with a large hole. Often.

{pinterest}

That amazing striped case of stairs inspires us to wear:

{atlantic pacific}

Larve, larve, larve. Turquoise striped painted floor, you say? Such a classic and traditional space with bold flare. That chandy will forever be our favorite. To die.

{tobi fairley}

That fabulously turquoise striped dining room inspires us to wear:

{atlantic pacific}

Elegant, classic, refined and striped. That is what you are, dining room. We love the use of traditional elements in this space, and then BAM, with that black and white striped floor. Definitely eye catching.

{flickr}

That fabulously elegantly striped dining room inspires us to wear:

{prepfection}

As you all are well aware, we adore a painted ceiling. Especially, a striped painted ceiling. We love the touches of Victorian style in this living space. That striped ceiling definitely creates the wow factor that this room would otherwise crave. The gilded gold mirrors are just the right amount of bling.

{the handmade home}

That uber fab, understated glammy living space inspires us to wear:

{atlantic pacific}

Ahhh! Color all over the joint. We die for this room. Such a successful pairing of contrasting hues. For sure. Does anyone spy a striped ceiling up in here? Yeah. We thought so.

{house of turquoise}

That fabulous master bedroom striped ceiling inspires us to wear:

{the simply luxurious life}

Ok. Ok. Ok. Ok. Everybody calm down. We know this image creates quite the commotion from its fabulousness. We die over the major prep chic aesthetic this room oozes. How fab is the gallery staircase here? We can hardly deem it as a gallery wall as it encases the entire stairwell.

{domestikated life}

That fabulous striped staircase inspires us to wear:

{they all hate us}

A calming, neutral striped space. We love the touches of glam that are popping up all over this striped space. See, stripes on stripes works, ladies. Striped walls, paired with striped furnishings?!?! Larve.

{sarah richardson}

That fabulously traditional, glam space inspires us to wear:

{see jane work play live}

A black and white striped powder room. What more could a girl want out of life? Who loves that hanging scalloped mirror? It is just delightful.

{eli-sabeth}

That black and white striped powder room inspires us to wear:

{the daybook}

Ok, our loveliest lovelies...we know you are dying to get on the stripes on stripes train. (For those of you who do not take the train, the stripes on stripes bus, car, van or taxi. Good?) We have complied all of our favorite striped pieces (home decor and fashion), that we know you will find equally as fulfilling. Let's hype the stripe!

Get the look: throw/chandy/chair/rug/ottoman/rug/plates/clutch/shoes/art/pillow/tray

Love you dolls. Have a fabulous day! Love, L+L

S+S chow: bruschetta

2012-02-17T06:57:00.002-05:00

Oh, bruschetta, how I love thee. With your toasted bread, garlic and tomatoes, how can one go wrong? Perfectly divine. Bruschetta has been a long time favorite of mine. There is nothing simpler to make and I love that it can be served as an appetizer, snack or even a meal. I've rounded up two of the best bruschetta recipes I have found, for your viewing {and tasting!} pleasure. I will be whipping up some myself, tonight!

A traditional bruschetta recipe that will make your mouth water!

{The Pioneer Woman}

Annnnnnnddd for a twist on the traditional, guacamole bruschetta. Holy. Smokes. Is it lunchtime yet???

{Just a Taste}

We hope you all have a weekend filled with everything you love!! Love, L+L

S+S design: a bold basement

2012-02-16T07:01:00.003-05:00

When we first spoke with our client about her large basement, we knew immediately what direction we wanted to take. A room filled with bold color and patterns! A family of five needs the perfect place to relax and play! We really made an effort to create a space that is warm, inviting and fun for all. We hope you all agree!

Our favorite piece in the room is the large black armoire with turquoise accented shelving. We have been eyeing that beauty for awhile now and couldn't wait to use it in a space! The room really began there. When we found the striped rug, we knew it was a winner! With all of the color going on in the accessories, we chose to ground the room with simple and timeless furniture pieces. As far as art work goes in this space, we found some gorgeous patterned wallpaper to frame. It is an easy way to add color and pattern and we think it will be super fun. This project was so much fun to design and we are so excited to see it come to life! Happy Thursday loves! Love, L+L

For any of you interested in our design services and are looking to get additional information, email us at sadieandstella@gmail.com. We would love to hear from you!

Favorite Room Feature: Things That Sparkle

2012-02-15T07:00:00.001-05:00

Happy middle of the week day, dear ones. Today we have a very special guest feature, Alex from Things That Sparkle. Now obviously every favorite room feature that is shared, is designed by the guest poster. What makes this one so special you ask? The room featured today is a clothing boutique that was designed and installed by Alex. Just you wait. It's amazeballs! Lots of sleek and modern elements while having an overall warm and inviting vibe. Gorg!

Hi all, I am Alex from Things That Sparkle and I am so excited to be here today to be sharing one of my favorite rooms.

One of my close friends from childhood recently opened an incredible women's clothing store in Chicago. As she began to figure out the details of the store, she asked me to be a part of the decorating process. She has incredible taste on her own, so it was such an honor to work with her and her talented sister on this special project.

She wanted an eclectic and glamorous space, with lots of color and texture. I am absolutely in love with the end product. It reflects her taste but is also a space that people like to shop in.

The Edit

Chicago, IL

we have a winner...

2012-02-14T09:36:00.001-05:00

We promised and we shall deliver. Someone's Valentine's day is about to get that much sweeter with a fabulous Devon Baer wrap top. And the winner is....

The lovely writer of Let the Tide Pull Your Dreams Ashore. She said:

Let The Tide Pull Your Dreams AshoreFeb 7, 2012 11:52 AM

I am a new follower...love Devon Baer! xx

Congratulations darling! We are so, so jealous. Thank you to everyone who entered in the giveaway!

diy love

2012-02-14T07:18:00.003-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day our little Valentine's! We hope Cupid came bearing gifts on this holiday for you. Well one of you, for certain, will be getting a gift from Cupid (Devon Baer) this morning. We will get to that later. We have been hanging out over at Pinterest lately, what a complete shocker, and have found some serious DIY's that have sent our hearts completely aflutter. These are in no particular order or organization. We just love. After all, it is Valentine's Day.

Nailhead Ceiling

{simple details blog}

Reclaimed Mirror

{the marion housebook}
Painted Rug

{charm home}
Twinsie Bubble Chandeliers

{me oh my mama}
Drum Shade Chandeliers

{5 is the magic number}
DIY Painted Closet

DIY Pillows/Painting

{gorgeous shiny things}
DIY Lacquer Boxes

{centsational girl}
Ikea Hack

{design manifest}

Do you have a DIY that you are dying to share with us? If so, send it our way. We love unique, one of a kind projects. That is all we asked for on this Valentine's Day.

Our little valentines. Please return shortly, as we will be choosing a winner for the Devon Baer giveaway. Stay. Tuned. Love, L+L

monday musings: animal prints + florals

2012-02-13T07:51:00.001-05:00

O.M.G. Can someone puh-lease pinch me? How can it already be Monday? I just had a whirlwind trip back and forth to Chicago within less than 48 hours. Can we say exhausted? Yes we can! However, let's get excited about some mixing and matching of some serious contrasts of patterns: animal prints and florals. Let's just stop for a second and put some seriously incorrect misnomers to bed. Misnomer (aka dirty rumor) #1: Animal prints and florals do not go together. Answer: False. Misnomer 2: Ok, so I am too tired and uncreative to come up with Misnomer #2, but give me a few hours and a few cups of coffee to think on it. Anyhoo. We have chatted about majorly mixing patterns before, but this definitely takes it up a notch on the bravery scale. Mixing animal prints and floral patterns will give you that curated look you are so desperately searching for in your space. Just you wait and see...

Darlings. How fabulous is this room? Truly. Loving the layered animal print and geometric love. Very collected and fab. Are we seeing the florals mixed in about here? From the pillows to the couch cushions...it is bringing a very feminine touch to the space. Does this room not resemble some sort of museum to you? We love.

{desire to inspire}

A more modern take on the jungle meets floral craze. We adore the floral window treatments paired with the zebra upholstered fretwork seating happening here. See folks, you can even stay in the same color family. It twerks. Twerking it.

{lonny mag}

Larvely. Truly. We have drooled over this image for a long, long time. I know. We are so elegant. Zebra walls and ceilings coupled with floral linens. Should we even mention the headboard?! Maybe a little too much sensory overload on Monday a.m. To. die.

{lonny}

So many patterns happening in this little office. Layering of contrasting rugs, floral wallpaper, ikat seating and more. We sound like we are selling a car on all of its features. This room also has power windows and power seating. There is Misnomer #2. Back to the subject at hand. Love the space.

{chinoiserie chic}

This space is so lovely we can hardly stand it. Although two patterns are used in the space essentially, they are carried well throughout. The zebra, tufted, skirted ottoman is the most. Ever. So dreamy.

{quadrille fabrics}

What a charming breakfast nook we have here. Such beautiful elements used all in one little area. The zebra print chairs and pillows add just the perfect amount of edge to an otherwise overly girlie dining space. See?!?!?! Contrast works.

{pretty stuff}

This room has had us up on our heads since it first hit Lonny Magazine. Over the top walls and ceiling. OVER THE TOP. We die for it. This little girl is beyond lucky. Beyond. Loving that zebra rug centering the room. Who is with us? Black accents used here are the perfect contrasting element to the space.

{lonny}

Ok so enough of zebra prints, I guess. On to other animals in the animal kingdom. Our girl crush, Jamie Meares, showing off her animal print and floral skills in her guest room of her home. The dalmatian print is the perfect way to dip your toe into the animal print pool, if you will. And we will.

{isuwanee}

Leopard print carpet, of course. What a lovely bedroom seen below. All of the elements that we have been speaking of today, darlings. Major floral walls paired with an over the top leopard floor. Its amazing how such opposing elements work in a cohesive manner. Beautimous.

{pinterest}

And an example in everyday style. I have been obsessed with this image for like a week now. I don't know where that dress is from, but I do know I need to get it. Goal for this week. Aspirations, people. Aspirations.

{pinterest}

Do not forget to enter into the Devon Baer giveaway! It ends tonight. You will be forever kicking yourself if you miss out on a chance to win a fabulous piece from her collection. Trust. Have a fabulous day lovers. Love, L+L

We heart... and a giveaway reminder!

2012-02-12T18:18:00.001-05:00

Head on over to A Newfound Treasure to see what we are currently hearting! While you are there, say hello to Anna for us! She's such a doll!

Also, don't forget to enter the Devon Baer giveaway, it ends tomorrow, February 13th at midnight!! We will announce the winner on Valentine's day. One lucky lady will win this gorgy Addison Wrap Blouse! Go, enter now, right HERE

S+S chow: a valentine's affair

2012-02-10T06:48:00.002-05:00

It's Friday, Friday!! And it is the weekend before Valentine's! What do you all have planned? The hubs and I prefer a low key Valentine's day. There is nothing better than making a meal together! Last year our menu consisted of a chopped salad, filet mignon with herb and cheese potatoes and Ghirardelli chocolate lava cakes for dessert. Here are a few of our options for this year.

Crab and Prawn Lasagna

Pan-seared Scallops with White Wine and Lemon

Or... Pepper-Crusted Filet Mignon

And to top the meal off, White Cake with Champagne Sabayon!

Which would you choose? I am leaning towards the scallops, but all three look divine! Enjoy your Valentine's weekend, darlings! Love, L+L

DIY: hydrangea wreath

2012-02-09T06:40:00.002-05:00

Well, well, well. We meet again, lovelies. Let's talk wreaths this morning. We do love a good wreath around here. After all, they are like jewelry for your door. Who doesn't adore a beautiful statement piece? Once the gold, glammy pinecone wreath came down, I knew another stunner was in order. Enter Pinterest inspiration. Totally swoon worthy. It was love at first sight.

Seriously, how gorgeous is that wreath? And that door? I die. Makes me want to paint my door black right this instant! Anyhow, after falling head over heels, I was determined to recreate a similar look for my own front door!

Here is how you can make one for yourself! Be forewarned, it's difficult y'all. There are 3 whole steps! Think you can manage?

Supplies:

Styrofoam wreath form (18 in.)

15 Large silk hydrangeas (removed from the stem)

Grosgrain ribbon

Glue gun

Step 1:

After removing the hydrangeas from the stems, begin hot gluing them around the wreath form. I used 10 hydrangeas in all for the front side of the wreath.

Step 2:

After the front side of the wreath was complete I noticed the sides were a bit bare. I found the best way to solve this issue was to cut the remaining 5 hydrangeas in half and glue. Viola! Problem solved.

Step 3:

Attach the grosgrain ribbon to the back of your wreath, hang on your door and enjoy! It doesn't get much easier than that, folks!

So, what do you think of the new door bling? We sure hope you all take a swing at it and send pictures our way! We love seeing what you all are up to! Have a fabulous day dears! Love, L+L

Favorite Room Feature: My Little Happy Place

2012-02-08T07:12:00.000-05:00

Halfway there. Halfway there loves. To get us started to the finish of line of this week, we have Alison from My Little Happy Place sharing her favorite room with us this week. Ooooohhhhh (sounds of wonder and amazement). Alison adores color and pattern which makes us adore her. Her house is an absolute designers masterpiece and dream. We cannot wait for her to showcase her favorite space, her living room. Alison, you are up!

Thank you to the Lindsay's for having me! For any of you whom I haven't met, I am Alison from My Little Happy Place and I am a Native Texan living in Brazil with my husband and two daughters. Living outside the US creates many challenges AND opportunities for design, since I can't run to my nearest antique or resale shop, much less a HomeGoods or Target!

Needless to say, it has given me a great appreciation for the idea of making the most of what you have, but being fearless in creating what you want! I chose our more formal living room as my favorite space. I recently switched out the khaki slipcovers to white on our ikea sofas, and "hacked" an old media cabinet with high-gloss paint and new hardware. A blogger friend sent me a sample of Hague Blue so I could have it matched. See, where there's a will (and a willing compadre!) there's a way!

I love the way the sunlight streams into this room in the morning, and that it reflects our colorful and casual life down here in Brazil!

Miles Redd: Get the Look

2012-02-07T07:16:00.000-05:00

Are we in the Valentine's spirit or what? Yes, yes we are. And so is Miles Redd. Doesn't this room just scream Valentine's Day? Maybe it was unintended but I sure do see a lot of romance and a red and pink color combination happening here. We die over anything tufted, especially a redd, (yes Miles Redd) velvet, tufted sofa. Ahhhh!! It's like getting that Valentine from the boy you are crushing hard on in the 3rd grade. Ok maybe not that cool, but it's damn close.

And again! This room is similar to the extreme. Love the mixed gallery wall art and of course the va-va-voom zebra nailhead doors. Duh.

Miles Redd

We have combined the fabulous elements from each Miles Redd room and have created a way you get can this romantic, stylized look in your home. Do it. Play Cupid.

Sofa/Tables/Paint/Sconce Lighting/Mirror/Silhouette/Dragon Pillow/Blotched Art/Ikat Pillows/Dorothy Draper Chest/Ballet Sketch/Rug/Abstract Art/Silhouette Art/Peacock Art

S+S Giveaway: Devon Baer Designs

2012-02-06T10:55:00.000-05:00

So we meet again, dolls! Honestly we cannot think of anything better than seeing you all multiple times in one day! How lucky we feel. We are about to return the favor. Well Devon Baer Designs is going to return the favor. Who loves color, pattern, embellishment and duponi silk? Oh we do and so does Devon Baer. We DIE over her stuff. Die. It is beyond major. She has decided to give away a fabulous top to one of you lucky ducks. Allow us to first get acquainted with her work, shall we? Yes. Yes we shall.

Caroline Ruffle Dress

Charlotte Tunic Dress

And to the gem of all gems, this beyond gorgy cobalt blue wrap blouse. Bananas! Oh it could be yours...if you wish really, really hard.

Addison Wrap Blouse

How to win this swoon worthy top:

You must be a follower of S+S {if you already are, thanks! If not, just click the little follow button over near the top right column} Visit Devon Baer Designs and come back here to comment and let us know what your favorite style in Devon's shop is!

For additional entries you can:

Like Devon Baer Designs on Facebook
Like Sadie + Stella on Facebook
Follow Sadie + Stella on Twitter

*Be sure to leave a comment each time you do one of the above!

This giveaway ends Monday, February 13th at midnight.

monday musings: romantic spaces

2012-02-06T07:26:00.001-05:00

Lovelies! Are you all in a Superbowl junk food stupor? Duh. We know the answer to that question, as we are as well. On to the next American holiday, Valentine's Day. A Hallmark holiday, if you will. And we will. That doesn't stop us from lusting over romantic spaces, reds and pinks and hearts of course. Today we are dying over various spaces that have a completely romantic aesthetic. No, they are not pink and red with hearts. You will see. A cupid we shall play. Between you and beautiful spaces, that is. We are quite the matchmakers.

Now we are not typically into victorian design, however, this room is quite the exception. That distressed mirror multi-purposed as a headboard is the absolute most. Obviously the gilded gold frames in the room are complete standouts. Not to mention that crystal chandy. This room screams romance.

{better homes and gardens}

A modern type of romance. Clean lines and very understated hues. The shape of the couch and tables, brings a lot of feminine touches into the space. The creamy color palette in this space is so dreamy. Creamy and dreamy=romantic. That is the kind of math we like to see.

{ryan korban}

Adore an all white space. Who would ever know that it adds so much drama?! Well it can and it does. The floor to ceiling window treatments in this room are absolutely breathtaking. This room looks so cozy and inviting. It is romancing our eyes.

{dabble}

Here is a little romance done with some traditional pink accenting. There are so many modern elements in this space, but also some very traditional architecture that brings it to another time. Aren't you dying over that mantel?

{house and home}

Another lovely creamy hued space. Again, lots of victorian elements here: Crystal chandy, wingback chairs, settee, gilded mirror. The list goes on. We would love to serve tea and coffee in this space over great conversation. I feel like lots would get done in this romancy space. Yep, romancy.

{house beautiful}

Ahhhhhh lilac grasscloth walls!!! Oh my! Beautiful, gorgeous. Plum velvet headboard!! Mercury glass pendant chandelier! Color! Fur! Yes, I am naming off everything in this room. Everything is so lovely it must be named. Lilac grasscloth room, you are so romantic we want to date you.

{jackie astier}

Another all white romantic space. This room has so much femininity but not in an overwhelming way. We love the curves and plush elements strewn about the room. It is so inviting.

{elle decor}

A romantic kitchen. What more could a girl want? Nothing like a vehicle to class up your date with your food. Those french doors are killing it, by the way. The rustic wood table is the perfect element to offset the absolute glam happening here. Also, that chandy totally makes the space. Totally.

{glitter guide}

Gorgeous, all white bedroom. Cupid! You have done it again. This monochromatic space sends our hearts into a tailspin.

{elle decor}

We hope you all have come out of your food coma to enjoy this beautiful imagery. We have a lot in store for you this week, dollfaces. Stay. Tuned. Love, L+L

S+S chow: super bowl edition

2012-02-03T06:53:00.004-05:00

Ahhh Super Bowl... we meet again. We are looking forward to a fun day of friends, football and fabulous food. Wait, who are we kidding? For us, it's really about the food, and friends of course. Feast your eyes on a few delightful treats that made the cut for our Super Bowl spread.

{bbq portobello sliders}

{macho nachos}

{spinach bites}

{buffalo chicken bites}

{jalapeno popper dip}

{bacon blue cheese dip}

And for a sweet snack.

{cinnamon + sugar pretzel bites}

Not pictured are the infamous sausage stuffed jalapenos. These make an appearance at every gathering we attend. They are the bomb.com. Yeah, I said it. They are that good! Thank goodness Stella and Billie's mom introduced us to them! So, what is on your menu for Sunday? Please share!!

what we are loving

2012-02-02T06:47:00.000-05:00

Well hello darlings.. how are you all this Groundhog day? We hope divine! Us, you ask? In desperate need of a pick-me-up! Are we the only ones who feel as if we are running a marathon this week? Marathon we tell you. We are counting down the minutes until the weekend and the day of feasting aka Superbowl Sunday. In order to lighten the workweek load we have collected some serious eye candy, consisting of our current crushes. Bright hues, gold and a dash of glitter are just what the dr. ordered! And who wouldn't feel instantly better with a pic of that precious pup! We are dying to have portraits made of our girls. It must happen soon!

1/ 2/ 3/ 4/ 5/ 6/ 7+glitter / 8/ 9

Cheers to a brightly colored Thursday! love, L+L

Favorite Room Feature: Bijou and Boheme

2012-02-01T07:16:00.001-05:00

Lovelies! How art thou? Today we get to be very nosy and gander into Christine from Bijou and Boheme's favorite room, her living room. Oh how we have waited for this. Christine has the most fabulously feminine aesthetic that contains just the right amount of edge. Lots of pinks (done sophisticatedly), frills, golds and adornment. Love, love, love and love. We can't wait for you to see it. Floor is yours, Christine!

Well hello there Sadie & Stella loveboats...it's Christine here from Bijou and Boheme and I'm very happy to be sharing my favourite room with you today.

Don't you just love this series?

So fun getting to peek inside of other people's houses!

For my part, here's a little look into my favourite space...our living room...I chose to go with close-up shots because I truly believe it's the vingettes and little moments in a space that make it come alive...

...as you can see, I'm a great lover of feminine details...and pink.

I also adore a little whimsy and a mix of styles...definitely gravitate towards a room that feels collected and curated, rather than decorated.

Thanks for having me to visit...such a treat:)

designer crush: jules reid

2012-01-31T07:00:00.001-05:00

Do you know Jules Reid? Seriously. If you do not, we need to get you acquainted. Immediately, if not sooner. We present to you, the lovely and talented Jules Reid.

Is she not the most adorable thing ever? Yeah we know. Totally sickening. Gorgeous AND talented. Jules not only has the most unique clothing line on the market for pattern packed, one of a kind pieces, but she also sets her designs apart for naming pieces in her collection after famous people. Some examples, to name a few, the January Jones (for all of you Mad Men lovers out there), the Olatz (after the ex-wife of Julian Schnabel), The Jackie-O, The Buddha Tassel, the India (after the oh so talented India Hicks).

Here we are wearing one of our favorite pieces in Jules collection, The Virginia. Named after Jules' hometown state. After all, they do say Virginia is for lovers.

Stella wearing The Virginia - Kiwi

Sadie wearing The Virginia - JR Print Blue

Don't you adore them? They are so comfortable and add the perfect pattern and playfulness to any wardrobe. So many pieces to love. We seriously want to wear everything from her collection at once. Trust us, we will make the patterns work in harmony. Here are a few pieces that have TOTALLY caught our eye.

Oh. My. Oh. My. This dress, is not only show stopping. It is heart stopping. If I could only wear one thing for the rest of my life, this would be it. The pattern. The cut. It is everything.

The McPherson

Double pattern for a dress? Yes. We love. Remember what we said about mixing patterns, lovelies. It works.

The Mary

What is not to love about this combo seen below? Hello! The bottom to die for skirt is named after Stella! We would love to think so. But seriously...how major. Jules! If you are listening...can you dress us everyday?

The Harold

The Stella

Another perfect pattern, another perfect shift dress. We can think of so many places and occasions to which we could wear this darling dress. One would be everywhere. Basically.

The Gwenyth

Ahhh the Virginia. So we meet again! This is a new pattern for her 2012 Spring Collection. We love the large geometric pattern paired with the floral trim. Jules is at it again. Mixing patterns and making it work. And let's be honest, anything with the words "tootsie roll" in the name has won our hearts.

The Virginia - Sliced Tootsie Roll

This dress is beyond amazing. We die over anything adorned in jewels. This would be no exception.

The Simon

On to Jules world renowned flowing kimonos. We die. Loving that pattern and definitely loving how they styled that bad boy.

The Flowing Kimono

And if this kimono looks familiar, that is because it is. The fabulous Jamie Meares also loves Jules Reid. A girl after our own heart. Check her out with her sidekick, Rowdy. Adorbs.

Just as if, you couldn't love Jules anymore, prepare yourself for the next image. Jules with her adorable boys. Now we know why her designs are so feminine, flirty and fabulous. Triple F, folks. You have to be when surrounded by all boys!

We hope you love Jules as much as we do. Hopefully if the interior design gig doesn't work out for us, Jules will hire us to be Jules Reid models. Totally likely aspiration. Right girls? A girl can dream. We hope you have a fabulous day! Love, L+L

let's have a seat

2012-01-30T07:27:00.004-05:00

Lovelies! We have missed you so! Did you have a wonderful weekend? Hopefully. Today class, we are going to be obsessing over major seating in the dining room. Major. Let the seats do the talking and the walking. How 'bout it? Zhushing up the seating in your dining room is the quickest way to update the look and also set your space above all of the others. Whether it be colorful, adorned or just flashy, it is all in the details.

Love the shocking hot pink, nailhead, french inspired chairs. A man clearly lives here. Clearly.. The hot pink chairs add so much interest into the dining/sitting room.

{house beautiful}

A fabulously eclectic space. The yellow upholstered dining room chairs are a very unexpected choice, while a very respected choice. Their shape adds a very classic feel to a harmonious chaos.

{elle decor}

Ahhhhh! Adore. Absolutely adore this room. These kelly green dining room chairs are the absolute most. We are not sure if they are upholstered in a satin fabric or a leather, but either way, we truly don't care. What is not to love about this room? Oh and again, the chairs steal the show. Duh.

{pinterest}

Oh Johnny! He always gets us going. Who isn't obsessed with these lime fretwork masterpieces that we are feasting our eyes on? This whole room is fab, but the eye is immediately drawn to the neon seating. Let's get real.

{jonathan adler}

Again, such a fabulous space here. However, LOVING, the turquoise bamboo seating. This dining room is divine. I do not care that is over the top. I would adore stuffing my face here day in and day out.

{david jimenez}

Ummmm. Ok. Let's get the defibrillator out here, folks. Two toned, tufted, nailhead, wingback seating? Get. Out. I believe my heart just skipped a beat. If this isn't to die for seating, we don't know what is.

{david h christensen}

A fabulously moody, contemporary space. Another example of the seating stealing the show. We are loving the mix and match seating, of course. The coral wingback is so lovely. We would enjoy making that an everyday chair. You think that would fly in the office? So what if it didn't? I need it.

{pinterest}

What a light, airy, traditional yet eclectic dining room. We love the boldness of the chartreuse seating. It adds the perfect amount of pop that this room would otherwise be lacking.

{the lennoxx}

As you can tell, we have chartreuse on the brain. Again, the chairs are the main focal point here. They are complimentary to the room but are just absolutely to die for. Who is loving the portrait gallery wall seen here? Us too! All I can say is that woman loved an updo and a headband.

{elle decor}

On another note, today is Lindsay's (Sadie's mom) birthday! Today is her 16th birthday. Ok, well maybe not. Happy Birthday to a fabulous friend and a fabulous business partner! Love, L+L

S+S chow: jalapeno popper dip

2012-01-27T07:02:00.001-05:00

Appetizers are probably our most favorite meal. Yes, we consider apps a meal. Nothing beats a good appetizer. Nothing. With the Super Bowl around the corner our brains are already spinning with ideas on what to make. This jalapeno popper dip made the cut. Stay tuned next week for a few more from our list. Happy weekend! Love, L+L

jalapeno popper dip {via homemade by holman}

ingredients:

2 8 oz packages cream cheese at room temperature

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/2 cup roasted red bell peppers, chopped

6 jalapeno peppers, seeded, ribbed and finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 T cilantro, finely chopped

2 T lime juice

1 1/2 cups Mexican blend shredded cheese

1 tsp Ancho chili powder

1 tsp ground cumin

1 cup panko bread crumbs

directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese and mayo. Add bell peppers, jalapenos, garlic, cilantro, lime juice, 1/2 cup shredded cheese, and half of the chili powder and cumin. Mix well to combine to a uniform mixture. Spread dip into a baking pan (I used a 1 1/2 quart oval Corningware baking dish but you can use any similar sized baking dish), smoothing into an even layer. Top with remaining shredded cheese, cover with bread crumbs and sprinkle with remaining chili powder and cumin. Bake approximately 30 minutes until cheese is hot and bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. Serve warm or at room temperature with tortilla chips.

Paperless Post

2012-01-26T06:25:00.000-05:00

Have you all heard of Paperless Post?? It's a gem of a site that offers gorgeous online invitations and cards. We happened upon it a few weeks ago and want to have a get-together just to try it out! Now, don't get us wrong, nothing is better than sending or receiving paper correspondence. However, if you are anything like us, spontaneous soirees happen and what better way to invite your guests than with gorgeous invites such as these. You can even add a coordinating envelope liner. We die. Just take a look for yourself!

These would have been just the ticket for our murder mystery party last year!!

For those of you hosting a Superbowl soiree next weekend... how presh are these?!

Kentucky Derby and mint juleps on the lawn? Yes, please!

They even have birthday and thank you cards!

So darlings, what do you think? Are you smitten with Paperless post?! Or can nothing take the place of the real thing? Do tell!! We love to hear your thoughts! Happy Thursday!
Love, L+L

Favorite Room Feature: Luella and June

2012-01-25T07:24:00.000-05:00

Today we have the oh so talented and stylish Bradley with Luella and June. Bradley's blog is definitely on our daily must read list. She always has fabulous fashion ideas and trends that we absolutely die over. Die. Not to mention, the girl has seriously great taste as far interiors go. No shock there. Wait until you see her super luxe, glam, chic living room. Yeah, we just said all of those together. Trust us. It's fab and grammatically correct.

Hello, readers! I'm Bradley from Luella and June and I'm so excited to be posting here on S & S. I recently moved into a new place, so my home is very much a "work in progress." My living room has come together very quickly, though, so of course, it's become my favorite room! I really loved all of my furniture in my old apartment, so I wasn't looking to change too much. (It's amazing how different all of the same pieces look when you put them in a new space though!) I kept most of the furniture exactly the same but added a few pieces here in there (like that white cowhide rug you see!) to mix it up a little bit. Here's a little peek! I hope you enjoy it.

I scored this side table on One King's Lane. I stalk that site every day at 10 a.m., and I was so excited when I saw this piece! It's the perfect height, and I love the geometric details. These chairs have been all over the place. It used to be my aunt's in the 1960's and several decades (and reupholsterys) later here they are in my living room! And of course, I can't forget the Pucci pillows. The fabric was the inspiration behind the whole room. The fabric, which is actually from the old Braniff Airline uniforms in the '60s) was a purchase from Zola's Vintage here in Dallas.

Books, books, and more books! I can never have enough of these. They're every where in my little apartment! I'm crossing my fingers that someday my house will have a small library where these books can live.

I love to entertain, so a great bar area is must! The Prada Marfa photographs are really special to me. West Texas is one of my favorite places (my boyfriend grew up right down the road from where these photographs were taken). It's such a beautiful sight to see! Not to mention, the photographer is my friend Gray Malin. He has an amazing eye!

what we are loving: asian inspired interiors

2012-01-24T07:16:00.000-05:00

I mean who doesn't love a pagoda chandelier or a set of foo dogs? We have always loved a touch here and a touch there of Asian inspired home decor. Today we have compiled three looks with ALL Asian inspired touches. From fretwork to ginger jars, we have it all. Asian inspired decor definitely gives any space that eclectic, worldly and collected aesthetic that we all desperately search for.

From Left to Right:

Look 1: Red Console/ Garden Stool/ Chandelier/ Ginger Jar/ Ginger Jar /Watercolor Painting/

Look 2: Mirror/ Yellow Console / Gold Foo Dogs/ Turquoise Ginger Jar/ Lamp

Look 3: Oriental Plant Stands/ Art Screens/ Cobalt Ginger Jars/ Red Pagoda Chandelier/Foo Dogs

Happy Hump Day Eve lovers. Love, L+L

monday musings: wondrous world of wallpaper panels

2012-01-23T07:13:00.001-05:00

Good morning you gorgy readers, you. Did you all have a nice weekend? We sure hope so. It could always be longer. Always. Today we are gabbing about wallpaper. Not just any type of wallpaper though. Framed wallpaper panels, y'all. Framed wallpaper is for those of us who are either not able to be fully committal with wallpaper or for those of us (not us) who just don't want to be. Wallpaper obviously tells such a story and serves as the backdrop for any space. Why not frame it on a large scale and make it art? Our thoughts exactly.

Isn't this room the most? We love the serene feel that the cool colored, asian inspired wallpaper panels bring to the room. Amongst all of the warmth and fabulous accessorizing here, these panels center the space and provide tranquility to this master bedroom. Headboard? Yeah we know. Divine.

{piccsy}

Another LOVELY master bedroom. This design genius decided to wallpaper between the existing molding in the space. It makes for lovely framed art, we tell you. The wallpaper used here is so gorgy we cannot even stand it. Timeless and fabulous.

{Summer Thornton}

Another example of wallpaper framed within the existing molding. And yellow it shall be. How amazingly eye catching is this? Just in this frame, it captures so much going on and really does serve as art in the room.

And in the same room...more framed wallpaper. Obviously the wallpaper is not completely symmetrical and that is why we love it. It truly looks like a matched set of art. Illusion, people. Illusion.

{houzz}

Actual framed wallpaper. To die. We love the gilded frames used here to hold this amazingly whimsical wallpaper. Such a beautifully neutral space and then BAM with the cobalt blue side table. We adore it.

{martha stewart}

How fabulous is this framed wallpaper in this office? Such an intricate and over the top frame is used to hold this floral wallpaper. We are loving the creativity and utility here with hanging additional art on top of the wall art. The layers add depth and style.

{lonny}

Another perfectly pretty framed set of wallpapers. This time with gold bamboo framing. We totally approve. All of the texture and neutrals used here really let the art do its job. Highly styled vignette.

{apartment therapy}

Look at this to die for dining room. Mix and match seating, gorgeous oversized lantern, gold bar cart, industrial dining room table. Sensory overload. Oh and we forgot to mention, the beautifully framed wallpaper art that is centering the space. What is not to love here, folks? There are so many elements happening here and they all mesh in perfect harmony.

{canadian house and home}

On to the world of bloggers in the world of wallpaper panels. Joi at Nuestra Vida Dulce sure knows how to work it. In a transformation of her master bedroom, she had some beautiful wallpaper handy and decided to frame the pieces as symmetrical art work in the room. We beyond love and adore the results.

{nuestra vida dulce}

We hope you have a fabulous day, darlings. Love, L+L

S+S chow: spicy jambalaya

2012-01-20T06:26:00.001-05:00

Bring on the heat! That's our motto around here. We love adding a kick to the meals we make, and our boys love it too. This jambalaya brings it. I seriously think the was one of the simplest meals I've ever made. I threw all the ingredients my crockpot in the morning and was greeted with delicious aromas when I arrived home. Filled with veggies and protein, it's healthy to boot! I call that a win, win. This is the perfect weeknight meal and would make an amazing addition to your Super Bowl spread. Happy weekend darlings!!

Crockpot Jambalaya {via food renegade}

Ingredients:

5 c. chicken stock.

4 peppers – any color you want {I used red, yellow and orange}, chopped

1 large onion, chopped

1 large can of diced tomatoes (leave the juice)

2 cloves garlic, diced

2 bay leafs

1 lb large shrimp, raw and de-veined.

4 oz. chicken, diced

1 pkg spicy Andouille sausage

2 c. okra {optional, I added and loved}

3 tbsp Cajun Seasoning* {see below for how-to or use your own}

1/4 c. Frank’s Red Hot

Brown Rice

Directions:

1) Put the chopped peppers, onions, garlic, chicken, cajun seasoning, Red Hot, and bay leafs in the crockpot with the chicken stock. Set on low for 6 hours.

2) About 30 minutes before it’s finished, toss in the cut up sausages.

3) Steam the brown rice and serve the jambalaya on top! Enjoy!

*Emeril’s Cajun Seasoning:

2 1/2 tablespoons paprika

2 tablespoons salt

2 tablespoons garlic powder

1 tablespoon black pepper

1 tablespoon onion powder

1 tablespoon cayenne pepper

1 tablespoon dried oregano

1 tablespoon dried thyme

Yields about 2/3 c.

S+S Design: a relaxed master

2012-01-19T06:27:00.000-05:00

Yet another e-design project! Have we mentioned that we've been busy? It's been fabulous! The creative energy is flowing and we just can't get enough! For this project we went to work on another master bedroom. With little ones and pups, this client wanted a beautiful, relaxing retreat that was also family friendly. Here is what we came up with!

We chose to create a simple, eclectic space with rustic furniture and a mix of neutral, patterned fabrics.The clients hoped to keep their current headboard so we used that as a starting point for the room. We fell in love with the rustic dresser and knew right away that it had to be included in the room. For the foot of the bed, we found a linen bench that will be durable, and serve as a little source of storage for their family. Our vision was to include two of the gorg gold chandeliers flanking the bed above the bedside tables. This will bring in the eclectic feel that we were looking to achieve and also be a good accessory to the existing headboard. Another source of lighting in the room will be displayed on the dresser. We wanted to add some cool colors into the space through the rug and accessories to compliment the already warm vibe in the room. We have also included a wallpaper in our design that we think will look lovely on the wall behind the dresser. We love the interest and definition the wallpaper will add to the room. We love how this design turned out and can not wait to see it all come to fruition. We hope it will serve our clients well for years to come!

For any of you interested in our design services and are looking to get additional information, email us at sadieandstella@gmail.com. We would love to hear from you!

Favorite Room Feature: Classic Casual Home

2012-01-18T08:51:00.000-05:00

We first happened upon Mary Ann from Classic Casual Home a few months ago, and we have never turned back. Her style is classic, timeless and chic. Girl has got vision and style. Just wait and see. Have at it Mary Ann!

Hello Stella + Sadie readers!

I am so happy to participate in Lindsay and Lindsay's My Favorite Room series.

It changes seasonally, but right now

my favorite room in our southern California beach cottage is

Our Master Bedroom.

This bedroom was renovated last year and you can

what we are loving: bold pattern and bold color

2012-01-17T07:24:00.001-05:00

Well, well, well. So we meet again. If you all read our post yesterday, we are crazy about mixing and matching bold patterns, textures and colors. Obvi. Today, we have compiled three different room schemes incorporating all of the ways to practice what we preach with pattern: wallpaper, rugs and pillows. Allow us to take a look at our three looks. Redundant. I know. Right this way ladies...

Starting from left to right

Look 1: Lamp/ Cabinet/ Wallpaper/ Greek Key Box/Ikat Frame/Quatrefoil Vase

Look 2: Wallpaper/ Chair/ Greek Key Rug/Pillow/Pillow/Fabric

Look 3: Wallpaper/ Quatrefoil Rug/Coffee Table/Birdcage/Fan Tray

And in case you didn't get a taste of this flair yesterday, here are a few rooms that we were dying over.

{house and home}

{massucco warner miller}

{red online}

{coco kelley}

{caitlin wilson design}

Happy Tuesday lovelies.

patterns: the bold and the beautiful

2012-01-16T09:37:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday loves. We hope you all had a fabulous weekend. Today we are hanging out over at SavorNC and we are talking about mixing and matching patterns. Here is a little preview of what you might see. Head on over here.

S+S chow: winter salad

2012-01-13T07:13:00.001-05:00

After the holidays and birthdays {read: too much chocolate fudge cake}! My body has been craving something fresh and healthy. This salad was just what I was looking for! Quick and delicious, the only thing I did different was sub almond pieces for the walnuts. Totally amazing. Happy Friday lovesies!! Enjoy the weekend! I know we will!

winter detox superfood salad {via yummy mummy}

ingredients:
1 small bunch broccoli, raw or quickly blanched
2 tangerines, peeled and segments separated, plus 1 for dressing
1 pomegranate, seeded
1/4 cup shaved or thinly sliced fennel
1 avocado, sliced
1/4 cup walnut pieces
extra virgin olive oil
directions:
Toss first 6 ingredients together in a medium bowl.
Drizzle olive oil and juice of one tangerine over salad.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

a fresh pop of color

2012-01-12T06:26:00.000-05:00

I have been seriously craving color lately, especially in art. After swooning over some gorgeous abstract pieces, I decided to try my hand at painting my own. I grabbed some watercolors + gold acrylic and had some fun! One Ikea Ribba frame later and voila! Just the pop of color and shine my room needed.

Such a simple and fun project, I love the result! Go ahead, try it for yourself!!

For those of you who aren't up for creating some art of your own, here are a few fab options sure to spice up any space!

{siiso}

{geliz01}

{cozamia}

{furious dreams}

Favorite Room Feature: Marcus Design

2012-01-11T06:35:00.000-05:00

We just adore Nancy over at Marcus Design and have for awhile! Last February we featured her unbelievable Ikea hack! The girl has got skills, y'all. And serious. style. We are so excited to feature her again today! We know you'll love her work as much as we do!

Hello lovely S+S readers! A huge thanks to Lindsay & Lindsay for allowing me to participate in their fabulous series!! My living room has definitely been my favorite room in my own home to decorate. It's the spot we spend the most time in, so feeling comfy and pretty was high priority :) I quite literally had NO color in my home (grey, black, & white throughout) so I chose to add a dash of turquoise to liven the space and it really makes me feel happy. With a bit of tufting on the chairs, a mirrored cabinet, and little touches of pink here and there, the room has just enough of a feminine edge.

We recently added a grid panelled wall with inexpensive strips of MDF, and it brought the architectural detail the space was desperately needing! And since the fireplace surround and the panelled wall are white, it leaves the room feel brighter and larger.

I have really enjoyed planning & decorating this room, though I am sure I'll be changing things up in here again sometime soon. After all a decorators home is never truly done, right? I hope you enjoyed the tour! Thanks again for having me here ladies!

S+S Design: a 1940's craftsman

2012-01-10T06:27:00.001-05:00

2012 has just begun and has been filled to the brim with some incredible {and fun!!} clients and projects! We are loving. every. second. Our most recent client just moved into a 1949 Craftsman with her new hubby and she asked us to help her get started with the decorating! The new house has amazing character and provided us a great bones to work with. Let's get started and take a look at the designs!

As you step into our clients home, you walk directly into the living room, we will begin there. Let's first talk about the tiled wall which we know you are definitely eyeing. Since our clients' home has some historic charm, we wanted to pay homage to that. The tin tiles will add texture and create a beautiful design on the wall behind the couch. This is going to give the space an amazingly historic and unique vibe. For the color palate we decided to go with a rich navy and emerald against putty grey walls. We chose very traditional furniture pieces that can carry our clients all through the years. We love the tufted slipper chairs and think they will add some elegance to the space. We included a chest ottoman to hold all of our client's modern comforts, ie remotes and trays. Functionality is key in every space. On the wall opposite the couch, our clients are planning an Ikea hack of all hacks to create a custom, built-in entertainment center. It's going to be grand.

The living room leads directly into the dining. Before we even began, our client knew she wanted one thing in the dining room, tone on tone striped walls. We think this gives the room a super sophisticated feel. We incorporated the client's existing dining room table, which we are obsessed with! We paired the table with two high back chairs that have darling button adornment on the back with gorgeous neutral velvet pieces from Pier 1. We love the two types of chairs especially with the scheme of the room. We had visions of a mirrored buffet table in this room. We incorporated a brassy gold intricate chandelier to hang over the rustic table. To match this, we have highlighted both the buffet and the art placed over the buffet with sconces. These match well with the chandelier. The rug that is used in the room ties all of the neutrals together and also gives a little hint of plum. We picked up this hue by using plum glass bowls on the table. You will never believe it...from Ikea! They sure don't look like it. As for the window treatments, we chose a very neutral shade and pattern for the drapery. We think it adds a little contrast with the stripes in the room but also carries the monochromatic theme throughout.

Last but not least, the master bedroom. This room is filled with DIYs sure to keep our clients busy! In our initial consultation the client expressed an interest in making her own upholstered headboard. We found a bit of inspiration for her! We adore the simple curves, linen upholstery and large antique brass upholstery tacks lining the edge. For their existing dresser and floor length mirror we suggested painting a distressed griege. As far as side tables go, we chose two different pieces, a skirted table and pedestal table {not pictured} to create a collected feel. On to the bedding! Our goal was to piece together a few simple elements to create a custom layered collection. We adore the look of a tucked white quilt and the light amethyst, pintuck duvet folded at the end of the bed. The lilac patterned fabric is to be used to create custom euro shams with plum linen piping. Accessories, accessories, accessories. We wanted to bring a little rustic into the room with the gorgeous antler trio above the headboard. The mercury glass lamps will add a touch of shine and will look beautiful flanking either side of the bed. The art we selected delivers color, tying in the lilacs and plums to the teal in the rug. The silk striped curtains will also add a bit of drama. We worked to create a calm space with a simple color palate. We hope it will be the perfect retreat for our clients!

We can't wait to see all of these spaces come together! Let us know what you think! We always enjoy hearing our sweet readers opinions! Oh, and happy Tuesday!! love, L+L

For any of you interested in our design services and are looking to get additional information, email us at sadieandstella@gmail.com. We would love to hear from you!

monday musings: abstract art

2012-01-09T06:31:00.001-05:00

Happy Monday S+S lovers! How was your weekend? Fabulous we hope. Our latest fancy is definitely abstract art. There is something about the lack of uniformity of brushstrokes and random hues that we beyond adore. It adds such interest and authenticity to any space. Let's look at some serious spaces.

We love the color and statement abstract art brings to a room, clearly. What is your most loved art for a space?? Do tell, we'd love to hear from you!

S+S chow: chocolate fudge cake

2012-01-06T07:04:00.000-05:00

It is so here....Friday! Rejoice. Ummm so we know everyone is trying to "cut back" right now. So why not indulge in this chocolate fudge cake?!?! Why I ask?? Ok, but seriously. This cake is absolutely amazeballs and you need to get you some. Just try your hand at this cake, and then start that resolution. Divine. Doesn't it look so scrumptious? Enough to inhale in one sitting? Totally. Enjoy! Happy weekend lovers!

Chocolate Fudge Cake {via amanda's cooking}

ingredients

cake:

2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour 3/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon granulated sugar 1/3 cup light brown sugar 1/4 cup best-quality cocoa powder 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 3 eggs 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons sour cream 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled 1/2 cup canola oil 1 1/3 cups chilled water

fudge frosting:

6 ounces bittersweet chocolate, minimum 70 percent cocoa solids 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened 1 3/4 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

directions

for the cake:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Butter and line the bottom of 2 (8-inch) cake pans.

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugars, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In another bowl or wide-necked measuring cup whisk together the eggs, sour cream and vanilla until blended. Using a standing or handheld electric mixer, beat together the melted butter and corn oil until just blended (you’ll need another large bowl for this is using the hand mixer; the standing mixer comes with its own bowl), then beat in the water. Add the dry ingredients all at once and mix together on a slow speed. Add the egg mixture, and mix again until everything is blended and then pour into the prepared pans.

Bake the cakes for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a cake-tester comes out clean. Cool the cakes in their pans on a wire rack for 15 minutes, and then turn the cakes out on the rack to cool completely.

for the frosting:

Melt the chocolate in the microwave – 2 to 3 minutes on medium should do it – or in a bowl sitting over a pan of simmering water, and let cool slightly.

In another bowl beat the butter until it’s soft and creamy and then add the sifted confectioners’ sugar and beat again until everything’s light and fluffy. Gently add the vanilla and chocolate and mix together until everything is glossy and smooth.

Sandwich the middle of the cake with about a quarter of the icing, and then ice the top and sides, too, spreading and smoothing with a rubber spatula.

S+S Design: Client's Living Room

2012-01-05T07:12:00.001-05:00

Ahhhhh Thursday! Why are you not Friday? Seriously. The weekend is needed. Obviously. We have been busy working on spaces for clients lately, and this is our newest project. Remember that week of giveaways we had back in November? Well this is the winner of the S+S E-Design giveaway! When we first spoke with our client, we got the sense of her style and quickly realized she was definitely an eclectic glam girl. After our own hearts.

She had a great existing space but just wanted to add color and refined elements. The space is a living/sitting room that serves as a gathering spot when they are entertaining. It is the focal point of the house as it is the first room you enter as you walk into the house. She wanted the space to be inviting and glam.

Lucky for us, she already had an awesome elements that she was intent on keeping. She has this amazing kilim rug that we obviously encouraged her to keep. Obvi. We decided the best way to bring the eclectic feel to the room was to add layers, color and texture. She already had a great pair of love seats that we decided were keepers. We added some bold pillows and throws to zhush up the area. To frame the windows and add major drama, navy velvet drapery was included.

We love the end result, and hope she does as well! For any of you interested in our design services and are looking to get additional information, email us at sadieandstella@gmail.com. We would adore hearing from you!

Favorite Room Feature: Saudah Saleem

2012-01-04T07:05:00.000-05:00

So to continue our organization bit, do we ever have a surprise for you. Take a quick breather before we start, because this room might stop your heart a lil' bit. Serious. Saudah from Saudah Saleem Interiors is sharing her favorite space with us today: Her Dressing Room/Office. Yes, you read that right. Girl has her own dressing room. Prepare to be envious.

Hi Sadie + Stella readers! My name is Saudah from Saudah Saleem Interiors and I’m thrilled that these two super creative and chic design bloggers have asked me to share my favorite room with you today. Shout out to Lindsay and Lindsay!!

Okay, so first I’ll give you a little background on who I am. I’m a wife, mom of 3, and interior designer. Oh and I work full time as well. It’s definitely a lot of hats to wear and involves lots of long days and late nights. But there’s nothing more rewarding than doing what you love. I’m passionate about interior design and love creating designer looks for less. The room I’ll be sharing with you is one that was truly a labor of love to create. Some of you may have already spotted my room in the Holiday issue of House of Fifty magazine. I call it my “chic mom cave.”

I live in a 1920s town home in Baltimore. Our house has lots of unique characteristics and architectural detail, but as with most older homes, it lacks sufficient storage space. I also love fashion and as a result of my love affair with fashion, my bedroom often looked like a hurricane had just blown through it- clothes, clothes, everywhere! So it was the lack of storage space combined with my ever growing wardrobe that prompted my unconventional decision to convert a bedroom into the amazing dressing room/office you see here.

Sometimes upping the glam factor in a room is really just about the presentation. Since I use the campaign nightstand to store and organize my jewelry, I lined the drawers with houndstooth scrapbook paper I scored at Michael’s and used ceramic pinch bowls I picked up at Odd Lots to add more of a unique look to the jewelry drawers. The colorful, mainly vintage, pieces of jewelry really stand out against the crispness of the little white bowls. Opening the drawers feels like stumbling across a hidden treasure chest!

I love to mix pattern and texture. So when I saw this graphic Nate Berkus dhurrie chevron rug I snatched it up in a hurry. It’s fresh playful and fun, but in a classic colorway of black and white. It really provides great contrast to the dark cabinetry. Most of the pieces in the room are thrift store finds, from Craigslist or ebay auctions, or discount stores. I found the “to die for” curved back tufted velvet mustard settee and chair set in perfect condition at a local thrift store. This campaign nightstand beside the settee was only $15! I removed and cleaned all of the brass hardware, and then polished and shined it up using Brasso. Turned out pretty good don’t you think?
I knew that with windows measuring over 100 inches from top to bottom, whatever I chose to hang on the windows was going to look dramatic..and I love drama in a room! Since the 3 windows literally take up an entire wall of the room, I knew that the drapes had to be something that was classic in look and feel but modern in color. The rich peacock blue was perfect! The floor length jewel tone drapes look give the room a more regal feel.

My inspiration for this space came from the dark moody rooms Drawing Rooms and libraries found in large 16^th-18^th century English houses. These rooms were characterized with elegant lines, rich fabrics and tall wooden built-ins. With their inset panels and dark finish, I think the wardrobe cabinets I used (IKEA Pax units found on Craigslist!) are a modern day translation of the rich wall to wall built-ins used in those Drawing rooms centuries ago. Although they may look like custom pieces, the bookcases that house the shoes are actually IKEA Billy bookcases. I added the extension units to the tops of each of the bookcases to allow for more storage. I think extending the shelves as close to the ceiling as possible helped give it a more built in feel.

As a designer, I love experimenting with color and texture. When creating an eclectic look with touches of glamour, I like to start with a good traditional/neutral base and then layer in unexpected accents, bold color combinations and some vintage pieces. In this instance, the dark cabinetry served as my classic neutral base sort of grounding the space. I chose to use the glass desk top with sawhorse legs (also from IKEA) to contrast the heaviness of the bookcases and wardrobes that flank the room. Plus using the see through surface let the rug remain visible from all view points of the room.

I also love layering design elements. Here the infamous yellow rosette Target pillow makes an appearance layered atop the vintage fur stole I keep draped over the back of the settee.

I personalized this lampshade by adding this mustard and gold Greek key trim I found on clearance at Walmart!

Well ladies, thanks so much for the opportunity to share this space with your readers! I hope you enjoy seeing the room as much as I enjoyed creating it. It’s truly a joy to have a space to retreat to in my home. I know that converting a bedroom into a closet/office space seems rather ambitious, but hopefully, this space can inspire others to jump start that New Year’s resolution to be better organize and to surround yourself with what you truly love. Even if it’s just designating a small corner in the house for yourself, personalizing the space and making it aesthetically pleasing will be so rewarding!

I have some pretty cool and exciting things in store for 2012 and I can't wait to share them all with you. A few months ago, I started a blog to chronicle my interior design findings, projects, inspiration and all the stuff in between. Do stop by for a visit. But keep in mind I am new to the whole blogging thing (so please be kind). I would love to hear from you!

out with the old. in with the new.

2012-01-03T07:32:00.000-05:00

The year that is. Happy 2012 S+S loves! We could not be more grateful to be ringing in another new year with you all. Doesn't the start of a new year make you feel like you need to purge half of the things in your house? Us too. Well maybe not purge, but definitely get stuff in order. The rule of thumb around our house has been: If you have not worn it since middle school, it is probably time to give it up. I wish I were kidding. Needless to say, out with the old, in with the new.

Not only are we bringing you pretty, organized imagery today, we are going to give you tips in your new year with new resolutions, to get regulated and stay regulated. Details people. Details. Nothing can be more aesthetically pleasing and fulfilling than an organized chaos. Nothing.

First step in getting real and getting organized: Group like things. This works for organizing anything. Specifically in a closet, hang jackets together and bottoms together. Place your purses in a visible place. It becomes your artwork.

{live love prep}

This closet is a great example of most of our closets. Stuff, stuff and more stuff. Grouping like things together streamlines the otherwise disaster this closet could actually be. Who loves those doors? We love those doors. We also have a little bit of color coding happening here, which we adore.

{velvet moss}

Next organization tip, color code it. This may seem extremely obsessive and over the top to some, but trust us, you have no idea how fulfilling this can actually be. Not only does it look amazingly beautimous, it can really help you in the mornings while shopping your closet. It definitely helps me visualize and locate what I am looking for more efficiently. Trust.

{pinterest}

We wish we had this rainbow collection of cookbooks! How accomplished and seasoned this person must feel. Gorgy organized kitchen here folks.

{elle decor}

Another pretty color coded closet.

{closet couture}

Next tip: Compartmentalize. Stuff seems to look so much more organized and chic when you place it in pretty boxes and curiosities. Take these lacquered boxes for instance. So major.

{pinterest}

We die over this picture! Die! Love the decorative bowls used to display delicate jewelry. It looks so refined and so unique.

{martha stewart}

Another fab example of compartmentalizing. To the fullest. Lucite compartments built in to organize and regulate jewelry. We need this. Truly. Oh to be able to find that bangle that will make your outfit.

{pinterest}

Next up: Label it. This works in any space, really. Kitchen, office, playroom...you name it. This is such a great transformation from utter chaos and clutter to complete organization. The labeling is key in any kitchen or pantry. Easy access to that key ingredient in any recipe. Larve.

{honey and fitz}

Talk about compartmentalizing and labeling. All in one here. If you are not so lucky to have the ability to compartmentalize with this shelving, use baskets. As also seen here. It will help in keeping like items together.

{pinterest}

A perfect example of compartmentalizing using baskets. We adore. Since these baskets are not as easy to see through, labeling is absolutely helpful in this case. Love the industrial baskets. Love.

{pinterest}

S+S chow: glittering sandwich cookies

2011-12-30T07:58:00.000-05:00

We were not joking when we promised to be back with a recipe worthy of your most sparkling soiree! You're eyes are not playing tricks on you, these are glitter cookies friends. Glitter. Cookies. Does it get any more fabulous? These gems are not only gorgeous and glittery, they are delish. Sure to be the hit of any par-tay. These will certainly be making their way to our nye celebration. We just have one request... can we eat them everyday??
Glittering Sandwich Cookies {via the purl bee}
Makes approximately 5 dozen cookies.
ingredients  
cookies 
2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour 
1 1/3 cups cornstarch 
1/2 teaspoon salt 
4 sticks unsalted butter, softened 
1 cup confectioners' sugar 
1 teaspoon vanilla  
1 teaspoon almond extract
Sanding sugars in various colors  
filling 
2 cups confectioners' sugar 
2 tablespoons almond extract 
1/4 cup light corn syrup 
1 stick unsalted butter, softened

directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place flour, cornstarch and salt in a bowl, mix togetgher and set aside.  With electric mixer, mix butter, confectioners' sugar, almond extract and vanilla until fluffy.  Add flour mixture and mix on low until dough forms.   Place each sanding sugar into a small bowl. Roll dough into balls, 1/2-inch in diameter, then roll balls in sanding sugar. Place balls on parchment lined baking sheet, 3/4-inch apart.  Bake for 9-11 minutes. Bottoms should just be turning golden. Remove and place on cooling racks.  
To Make Filling: With electric mixer, mix all filling ingredients on medium until combined.
Complete Cookies: With offset spatula place approximately 1/4 teaspoon of filling on half a cookie, sandwich the other half to form a ball.  Cookies will keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Happy New Year to you and yours!! May 2012 be your best year yet! Love, L+L

New Year's

2011-12-29T07:51:00.000-05:00

So we are pretty lame here this NYE. Nothing extreme planned...yet! All we can say is channel your inner Ke$ha. Do it. When in doubt...throw glitter everywhere. We permit it. Now, if we were having a fancy schmansy soiree, here is how we would proceed with it.

We would send these:

Glitters and streamers, of course.

{you are my fave}

We would set the table with these:

{pretty stuff}

Wear these:

Who says we can't wear three dresses at one event? This is New Years people.

Seat our guests here:

{style me pretty}

Display this:

{pizzazzerie}

Drink this...and more of this:

{mint love social club}

Do this at midnight:

Low key around here, folks. Low key. Tomorrow we will return with a recipe suitable for your glitter filled holiday. Promise.