Fresh Cuts

Its been a cold week around here but I can't help but notice all of the bikini and beach images springing up on Pinterest. While I'm nowhere near ready to slip on a bikini, I am looking for a few fresh cuts like these vintage turqoise porcelain plates.

Source: cafecartolina.blogspot.com via Rachel on Pinterest

I need some lovelies that remind me of the warm waves and sunshine without the need for a bikini-ready body. I've been dying to try an ombre technique on the walls . . . just waiting for the right space.

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I love this kitchen I saw in Southern Living.
The fresh palette keeps it fresh and casual.

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How fabulous is this magenta casita?

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This blanket sweater will keep me warm but remind me of warmer days to come with the pops of bright  pink.

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A few bright, fresh cuts to brighten up your chilly day!

'Til Next Time!
xoxo
Rachel

On My Mind

I know we all waited with baited breath for Pantone to announce the 2013 Color of The Year and thankfully, they confirmed my genius & trend-setting ability . . . (I seriously crack myself up).  PANTONE 17-5641 Emerald is this year's color du jour and for those of you like me, you didn't need PANTONE to tell you its fabulous. My very first post, Green Day, explored our need for more of this lush hue, and while I'm still swooning, I've moved on.

Right now I'm drawn to this raspberry-meets-violet hue and although I don't see it anywhere yet, it is certainly on my mind. This is it and I want it . . . on my nails, on my lips, on some pillows, drapes, you name it - I'm loving it.

Source: rileymadel.blogspot.com via Marissa on Pinterest

This just might be my gloss for spring. NARS Larger Than Life Gloss in Penny Arcade-Raspberry.

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Get a glimpse of the elusive color here in the forefront as it compliments the color of the moment.

Source: gildandgrace.blogspot.com via Patti on Pinterest

Maybe I'm over gray & nude lips or maybe I'm must looking forward to spring & something fresh, but I'm loving me some color. Whether its emerald or raspberry-meets-violet, I don't see an end in sight to my color crush.

What colors are you craving?

'Til Next Time!
xoxo Rachel

Winter Wishes

I've hit the Winter doldrums. Everything feels dry . . . my hair, my skin, my style - I'm ready to spice it up a bit, but every time I try, I find myself clamoring for the nearest pair of wool socks and a hooded sweatshirt. A funk some may call it, and I'm in the middle of one - a big one.

If you're feeling like me, here's a little inspiration for you.
Dream with me of warmer days when our skin will glow and our sun-bleached hair will fall effortlessly & perfectly across our faces.

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Dream of warmer days when we will bare our legs & arms fearlessly, wear only one layer and slowly & casually sip our coffee.

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Dream of warmer days when we'll once again prefer entertaining outdoors under the stars.

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The New Year is here and warmer days are surely coming soon.

Until then - keep dreaming.

'Til Next Time!
xoxo Rachel

craving color

After spending a white Christmas in Michigan, I'm craving some color and some inspiration for last minute fixes before my New Year's guests get into town. This peachy-coral color is one of my favorite hues right now & paired with black & white or hints of emerald is a serious show-stopper. My New Year's quick-fix? Stack artwork instead of hanging and add some fresh flowers to my guest bedrooms.

Eclectic Living Room design by New York Photographer Rikki Snyder

My next favorite hue? Mustard meets citron - and when paired with turquoise it's unexpected and fresh. New Year's quick-fix #2? Fill bowls with fresh fruit to add pops of color to my kitchen.

Eclectic Living Room design by New York Interior Designer Scott Sanders LLC

And my final current color craze is of course, emerald. But I will have you all know that my very first blog this year was on this very color and our need for more of it. I still believe it - look how it pops against a neutral grasscloth and graphic black & white. My final quick-fix for my New Year's guests? Add some cozy pillows to seating & bedding for a warm welcome.

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Although I'm back in Charlotte and out of the snow, I'm still craving color and the promise of a New Year.

'Til Next Time!
xoxo Rachel

Savoring Christmas

Happy Holidays!  I hope that everyone is blessed enough to get time with friends & family this Christmas and New Year.

I've been thinking of ways to slow down & savor this Holiday Season. It always rushes by and I'm left staring back at it. This year I want to enjoy it all while it's happening. I love the idea of setting up a hot drink station for family & guests - so warm & inviting.

Traditional Spaces design by Other Metro Media And Blogs My Sweet Savannah

I don't care if I have guests invited or not, I want my table set & looking pretty.  It makes me happy when I walk by and that's worth it to me.  I love the plaid throw as a runner & the holly berries used for this tablescape.

Traditional Dining Room design by Kansas City Media And Blogs Michelle Edwards

I will also have tasty beverages abounding . . . and again, more for myself than for guests, but I'm sure they'll appreciate it too.

Source: sugarandcloth.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Surround yourself with the things & people you love this Holiday Season.  May your days be merry & bright.

'Til Next Time
xoxo Rachel

DIY Holiday

Just a little inspiration to liven up the Holidays.

Kick it old school style with these homemade, cinnamon scented gingerbread ornaments. Adorn your tree and tie one on your gifts for an extra-special touch.

Source: katyelliott.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Your gift wrapping will be the envy of the party with this paper from Etsy.

Source: etsy.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Grab the coolest place cards in your own back yard. Love the neon pink, but any color could work - gold would love fabulous.

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Decorating & entertaining for the Holidays doesn't have to be overwhelming. Sometimes the best things are right in front of you.

'Til Next Time!
xoxo Rachel

Christmas Inspiration

Not all things Christmas, just all things Christmas colored...

I'm not a totally traditional gal, but I just love this kitchen.

Source: agentlewoman.tumblr.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Every dog needs a chair, but I'm sure few have one this cool. But seriously, how cool would it be to have this chair in the living room?

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I love this idea: spray paint plastic kids toys and add a magnet . . . what a great DIY gift idea!

Source: shop.uncovet.com via Rachel on Pinterest

This bright red, plaid coat makes me happy . . .

Source: prepfection.com via Rachel on Pinterest

What Christmas color combos are inspiring you?

'Til Next Time!
xoxo Rachel