Pinterest - My Latest Obsession

I tried as long as I could to stay away from Pinterest, but after a few months of turning the other way, I just could not resist a second longer. You know how you search the internet for "dream bathrooms" or "summer vacation spots" and then you create a folder on your desktop, or within your bookmark tabs, or even send yourself an email with the link, just so you can be sure to remember where you found this little nugget of info? Well Pinterest allows you to find anything on the internet and, by simply clicking "Pin It", the website will automatically file your photo and link into a neat and organized board. You can have as many boards as you'd like (I believe I currently have 21 boards - yikes!). The fun part is that you can search other members' boards and re-pin any of their lovely photos onto your boards as well. If you simply can't imagine being a part of another media site, Pinterest is still a super fun way to look up tons of great photos for inspiration.

These are a few photos I recently pinned! {1 & 2} pinned on board "Summertime & the living is easy" {3} pinned on board "Destinations" {4} pinned on board "Interiors"

You can see all of my "pins" here

If you have Pinterest, I'd love to follow you! If you're not on it, but would like to start, click the invite link on the top and Pinterest will email you with login info shortly.

*This is not a paid advertisement or sponsored post*

St. Jude's Church Transformed into Gorgeous Home

When I saw these gorgeous images of a home that was once St. Jude's Church, I just about fell off my chair. What a unique and beautiful home this space provides. I'd imagine it takes some getting used to living in a church, but with a kitchen (and bathroom) like that, I don't think it would be that bad of a transition!

photos via inspace

Kate Middleton's Canada and Los Angeles Fashion Picks

- Kate wearing Diane von Furstenberg's Maja belted silk dress -

I loved following Kate Middleton's fashion choices during her time in North America this past week. From the green Diane Von Furstenberg silk dress to the lilac Alexander McQueen floor-length gown and every piece in between, she was radiant in them all. I was even happy to see her in a navy Whistles crochet top circa their Fall 2007 collection. Who says you can't recycle a good top 4 years later? I can't imagine having to prepare and pack for such an event-filled trip, but she pulled off every last piece beautifully.

photos via People.com

Summer DIY - A Jute Twine Wreath

There is something about jute twine that I love. It's rustic, chic, and to be quite honest, I use it any chance I get. So, when I saw this DIY jute twine "summer wreath" tutorial by the always fabulous Emily at jones design company I just knew I had to give it a try. It was so simple, quick, and looks gorgeous in just about any spot in the house.

paper pom-pom flowers tutorial here

My "Do's" of Summer

I love reading those "do's & don't" lists in magazines. I find them amusing, and often times quite enlightening after realizing I "do" a lot of the "don't(s)". Okay, that was confusing. Anyway, here is my summer "do" list that I'm currently adhering to:

- one - Gluten-free bread by Udi's is perfect for allergy-friendly summer meals. Honestly, this is the best gluten free bread on the market (not a sponsored statement, just my humble opinion) - two - I love mixing summery patterns and colors throughout the house. Pillows are from Pottery Barn and one is Ralph Lauren Home that I found at TJMaxx. - three - Reestablishing a relationship with our local library has been a great way to go through my Amazon.com wish list for free. Currently checked out: Martha Stewart's Homekeeping Handbook, Pottery Barn Workspaces, Pottery Barn Storage & Display, Martha Stewart's Good Things (can you tell I'm on a house kick?!) - four - Cheap yet fun sunglasses from Melrose Trading Post.

What are your summer "do's?"

Six Wardrobe Pieces for an Effortless Summer

While Los Angeles doesn't tend to get super hot, we do experience temperatures warm enough to put me in a "simple" mindset. A desire for a three month, no-fuss lifestyle if you will. Light meals, carefree weekends, and an easy wardrobe are all a must in my book when the season is in full force. These are my six essential wardrobe pieces for an effortless summer, all of which can be complete in seconds with a pair of sandals and possibly a bracelet or two. No need to spend time on your hair either; a messy bun or side ponytail (like this one) accompany these looks perfectly.

looks via Malene Birger

Because sometimes...

you just need a little dose of glamour, sparkle, flowers, pink, and Audrey in your life.

photos via Pinterest

Happy Wednesday to you :)

Day & Night

I've been on the hunt for a few lighter pieces to wear to some upcoming events, so when I came across these photos from The Sartorialist's archives they gave me some much needed inspiration and direction. An over sized sheer blouse paired with a simple short and sandals equals the perfectly polished yet easygoing look for a day event, while a bold sun dress accompanied by a light cardigan makes for lovely evening wear.

photos by The Sartorialist

Red. White. Blue.

Hope everyone in the US is having a beautiful 4th of July. I'm weak for any type of navy colored decor as is, so I'm in heaven seeing all of the posts with the hue being center stage.

And a special 'Happy 4th of July' to all the men and women who have or are currently serving our country. My heart overflows with gratitude for you and your families every single day. Thank you.

Currently Wearing...

Last night I ran into Ulta for one purpose and one purpose only: replenishing my Bare Minerals stash. However, after seeing a lovely little "buy 2 get 1 free" sign posted on the Essie nail polishes I just could not resist. The sale must have tempted quite a few others as well, because a lot of the colors I've been wanting to try were sold out. But I did find Turquoise & Caicos (which I just put on and love it) and Splash of Grenadine. For my "free" color I chose Really Red- not a summer hue in the slightest but perfect for 4th of July. Here are some other favorites I'm anxious to try:

1. Splash of Grenadine 2. Turqiouse & Cacos 3. Lapis of Luxury
4. Lilacism 5. Mint Candy Apple 6. Brazialant 7. Super Bossa Nova

4th of July DIY: Mini Ribbon Flags

When I saw this gorgeous DIY via Style Me Pretty my heart skipped a beat. These ribbon flags are so simple, yet they're the perfect finishing touch to any dessert or platter at your gathering.

gather your materials: (1) a few pieces of striped, colored, and patterned ribbons (2) cake sticks - or swizzle sticks…straws…etc. (3) scissors

And voilà! Aren't they lovely?

photos by Jackie Wonders