The City Sage

Inspired By: Gwyneth Paltrow for Harper's Bazaar

When I was a kid my dad told some real whoppers: he spent his college years battling Russians on the moon; he'd make me wear Ninja Turtles underwear if I didn't get dressed for school on time; the queen and members of the royal family do not poop. And I think we can add Gwyneth Paltrow to the list of non-poopers, 'cause these photos prove the royal status I've always suspected of her.

Oh, I don't doubt that Gwynnie has problems like the rest of us: clogged sinks, ingrown toenails, husbands that leave their battered sneakers on the floor for us to trip over. But those little issues surely fade in the background when you have flawless skin, statuesque bone structure, and best friends like Stella McCartney to lend you clothes. Right?

 

Oh to be a non-pooper like Gwyn. Think of all the time you'd save--time that could be spent working out with Tracy, blogging twice as often, taking long lunches with Mario. The best part? While shuttling between London, New York and L.A., you wouldn't ever have to wait in line for the claustrophobic airplane lavatory!

(Okay, I joke. Gwyneth probably has a very regular constitution. More importantly, doesn't she look stunning? Don't you want to join her, Stella and Madge at their English estate this weekend? Kiss!)

Image Credits: 1. 5. 9. Alexi Lubomirski for Harper's Bazaar May 2010 2. Vogue September 2009 3. Sharla Flock Designs 4, 7, 11, 12. French Country Living 6. Martha Stewart Weddings 7. Marie Claire Maison 10. Elle Decor May 2010

On the Hunt: Spring Sandals

There is no more sure sign of summer approaching than a troupe of sandal bedecked feet sashaying down the sidewalk. And in spite of some oddly chilly weather here in San Francisco, I've seen my fair share of strappy, flip-floppy footwear lately!

Sure we've been told that it's now okay to wear sandals with stockings in the winter---and some of us have even been avant-garde enough to sport the look with pride. But it's just not the same as those first few days spent airing your tootsies and showing off your fresh pedicure for the world to admire.

I've got a favorite pair from last year that I can't wait to pull out, and I have my eyes on a few new options as well. I'm especially fond of those with a slightly orthopedic granny vibe--they remind me of my childhood devotion to Saltwater Sandals. Of course you could surprise me with a pair of killer platforms and I wouldn't turn them down!

So you tell me: what sandal styles are you loving lately? And for that matter, what color will you be painting those toenails once sandal season is well and truly here? :)

P.S. You'll note that I didn't include wedges---'cause that's a whole other story!

Shopping Guide: 1. Aldo 2. Frye 3. Nine West 4. Steve Madden 5. Frye 6. BCBG 7. Aldo 8. Loeffler Randall

Chairs of the World: The Wing Chair

Shhh. Do you see it? In the distance? Quietly nesting before the fireplace? It's glorious wings spread wide for all to see? We are lucky indeed to spot this prime specimen, for today we study the common wing chair, and this is...drum roll...another episode of 'Chairs of the World'.

The wing chair has evolved over many centuries and is now found in diverse habitats the world over. Here we see a studious wing chair that has made its home in an office. It seems to have developed unusually large, bulbous wings, perhaps an adaptation that allows for increased intellectual vigor?

This wing chair has ingratiated itself in a modern environment: proof that even the most traditional of creatures can exist harmoniously in a contemporary setting. Note the dramatic display of black plumage--an unmistakable display of dominance.

Behold, a gentler wing chair with a floral hide. Definitely the marker of the female of the species. Observe how easily she blends with her surroundings. Not given to exhibitionism like her male counterpart, this creature instead channels her energies to protecting the young pillow on her lap.

Not many wing chairs of an advanced age exist outside of captivity, and for good reason. This ancient specimen has taken on chubby, squat proportions as it nears the end of its life, and its stuffing has begun to escape the seams. In a perfect world, someone will provide a foster home for this wing chair and give it dignity in the twilight of its years.

Crikey! It's a pair of American Coastal wing chairs! This is a rare find indeed. With their white coats and nautical blue trim, these chairs must spend endless hours grooming and maintaining their bright sheen. Let's just hope they have access to a steady diet of Scotchguard!

On the European subcontinent we see this Italian wing chair in its palatial habitat. Not threatened by the grandeur of sky-high ceilings, arched doorways, and priceless antiques, this confident beast holds its own in spite of its shabby slipcover and humble posture.

Not to be outdone, the French have undertaken an extensively researched breeding program to produce wing chairs of their own. Radiant and sophisticated, these wing chairs are perhaps the most refined in the furniture kingdom, and can be yours for a pretty penny. Now tell me: is a mutt or a purebred wing chair more your style?

P.S. Study up on Bertoia, Egg and Wishbone. There will be a test at the end of the semester.
P.P.S This episode is dedicated to the divine Miss B, our most ardent 'Chairs of the World' supporter.

Image Credits: 1. Michael Grimm 2. Restoration Hardware 3. Richard Powers 4. Junk Style 5. Perfect English 6. Homes and Gardens 7. Italian Country Living 8. Arts & Decoration Magazine 

In the Bag: ROMYGOLD

All the handbag junkies in the house, raise your hands. And if you've not raised your hand, what planet are you from? I'd happily give up ice cream for a lifetime supply of fabulous bags, so I was thrilled to discover ROMYGOLD, a shining new star in the handbag universe. Classic shapes get an edgy update with grommets, zippers and strategic slashes, and purse addicts the world over rejoice.

I'm especially fond of the label's signature slit tote--it's the ultimate in 'business up front, party in the back'. Large enough to hold a laptop, refined enough to accompany me to a client meeting, yet chic enough to set me apart from the power suit crowd, I'd quit ice cream and chocolate to get my grubby little hands on one!

Though the brand hails from New Jersey, I detect a major West Coast vibe in this slouchy hobo. The perfect bag for weekend trips to the farmers' market and drives along the coast, you can't go wrong with a washed-out mushroom hue and gold stud accents. So tell me: which bag suits your personality?

Image Credits: 1. Barnaby Roper 2. Sasha Eisenman 3. Melodie McDaniel 4. CameraLink 5,6. Julian Broad Shopping Guide: Board One: Bag, Shimmer Highlighter, Necklace, Perfume, Wallet. Board Two: Bag, Sunglasses, Watch, Nail Polish, Credit Card Holder. Board Three: Bag, Scarf, Necklace, Lip Balm, Perfume Oil, Sunglasses.

Best Idea Ever: Super Neutrals!

Ever since the May issue of Martha Stewart Living arrived in my mail box, I've not been able to put it down. It's one of my favorites in a long time! And the best article of all is the piece on 'Superneutrals... colors that are muted in tone, with a touch of grey or white mixed in, so that the volume is dialed down a bit.' In other words, hues for the color-phobic amongst us!

We often talk here about how much we love color--vivid salmon, punchy cherry--but don't often use it in our homes for fear that we'll tire of it too quickly. That's where superneutrals come in. They're colors bold enough to make a statement, but versatile enough to lend themselves to multiple applications when you're ready for a change. 

Take the green on this wall, for example. It's subtle with warm undertones, so treat it as you would a beige. Blush upholstery and gilt accents feel posh and feminine for now, and in five years switch out the pink for a sunshiny floral to refresh the space.

Variations on purple make for fabulous superneutrals. Above, lavender chills with the washed-out vibe of limed oak and French grey. While below, the cozy glow of orchid acts as the perfect foil for spicy tumeric nightstands and a suzani bedspread. 

Pattern as superneutral? You betcha! Look at the shades in this wallpaper: the flowers themselves are a cool blue, while the background is mocha with a smidge of peach. The bright orange bench therefore feels right at home, not only because it plays on that hint of peach, but because orange is the complement to blue on the color wheel. It's science, people!

Use the concept of superneutrals not only to foster harmony in a single room, but also to unite multiple rooms with differing palettes. For example, my living room walls are a pale mauve and my hallway is pistachio, but because I chose colors with the same grey undertones, it flows beautifully. 

Now you tell me: Have you decorated with color? How do you make it work?

Image Credits: 1, 4. Martha Stewart Living, May 2010 2, 3. Canadian House and Home April 2010 5. House Beautiful 6. Living Etc.

Outfit to Room: Current/Elliott Spring 2010

Are you as ready for this weekend as I am? I have to work both days, but it's the good kind of work, involving butterflies and petits fours! These images from the Current/Elliott Spring 2010 lookbook perfectly capture my ideal weekend vibe: laid-back and playful no matter what's on the agenda!

I'm probably biased because Current/Elliott has been my go-to weekend wear for two years running. Their boyfriend jeans hold a permanent place of honor in my wardrobe, and last year's shorts saw so much action that it might be time to replace them with a new--yet perfectly pre-distressed--pair.

It also helps that these pics boast an undeniable 'nautical with a twist' appeal. A cross between 1920's seaside postcard and slummy dockworker, they make me want to abandon my landlubber life and take up residence on a houseboat. An extremely well appointed houseboat, of course...

But most of all it's the textures. The impossibly soft denim that I know to be Current/Elliot's claim to fame; the breezy, sun bleached cotton voile, the linen and canvas that scream 'Put down that computer and go find an adventure!' Is there anything more Saturday appropriate than that?

So bring on the weekend! In addition to butterflies and petits fours, mine will feature marbled paper, vintage teacups, and pinstripes galore. Mysterious, right? Don't worry, it will all be revealed in due time! Tell me: what's on your to-do list for the weekend?

P.S. More Current/Elliott and nautical inspiration, the best banana bread you'll ever eat, my favorite springtime flowers, and Fair Trade shopping on eBay. Enjoy some glorious R&R my friends!

Fashion Images: Current/Elliott Interiors Images: 1. Elle Decoration UK April 2010 2. Perfect English Cottage 3. French Country Living 4. Etcetera 5. New Farmhouse Style

Wallpaper to Room: Anna French UK

You didn't think I'd leave you hanging after yesterday's fabulous florals post without some tasty 'get the look' suggestions, did you? With wallpaper enjoying a huge crest in popularity right now, there are zillions of stunning options out there--and Anna French is at the front of the wave.

What little girl--or big girl!--wouldn't love a feminine boudoir just right for indulging in whimsies and daydreams? The metallic sheen on this blossomed paper makes me want to offset the sweet European vibe with exotic touches like a shell mirror and sequined pillows.

Oh. My. Goodness. Do you see what I see? Polka dots and florals together? It's all my Christmases and birthdays at once! A chic entertaining set-up is just the spot for this fun patterned combo. Counter the granny feel of the flowers with Hollywood Regency touches, then throw in some leopard print for good measure. Now can I offer you an aperitif?

P.S. Have I mentioned that I really love polka dots?

Interiors Images: Anna French UK. Shopping Guide: Board One: Bedding, Bed, Rug, Pillows, Mirror. Board Two: Frame, Lamp, Console, Chair, Mirror, Pillow.

Trend Lust: Rambunctious Florals

Florals have been in the spotlight for the past several seasons, and the trend shows no sign of slowing down. For my own part, I'm loving them more than ever! They encapsulate such contradictory qualities: bold yet romantic, daring yet feminine, attention-whoring yet eminently respectable. Florals are the ultimate in 'have your cake and eat it too'!

But as much as I adore these bright and sassy blossoms, I've not been brave enough to incorporate them into my decor or my wardrobe. Perhaps they feel too ephemeral to invest in, or perhaps I'm just a wuss. So you tell me: have you jumped on the floral bandwagon?

P.S. HALP! I'm desperately seeking models for a photo shoot that I'm putting together. If you're in the San Francisco Bay Area and have some modeling experience--or know someone who does!--drop me a line at anne[at]annesage.com for more details.

Shopping Guide: Steven Alan Shirt, DKNY Tank, Forever 21 Dress, Delia's Skirt, Topshop Purse, Erdem Scarf, Nude Footwear Shoes, Topshop Undies, Cath Kidston Bowls and Beach Towel, Anthropologie Chair, Lulu & Nat at Liberty Pillow, Anthropologie Lampshade, Pier 1 Lamp. Image Credits: 1. L'Officiel May 2010 2. Anna French 3. Marie Claire France, May 2010 4, 8. Elle Russia April 2010 5, 7. Marie Claire Maison, May/June 2010  6. Perfect English Cottage

Book Review: New Farmhouse Style

I am a true city girl; I get squirrely without my wifi, my 24-hour bodegas, my upstairs neighbors making unsavory noises in the middle of the night. But in true 'grass is greener' style, I sometimes long for the country--for the wide, unbroken sky and the rush of wind through the tall grass. In the absence of a rural escape, 'New Farmhouse Style' is just the retreat I need.

All the requisite elements are here: the broad plank floors, the threadbare ticking stripes, the sunlight streaming through panes of wobbly glass. Yet true to the word 'new' in the book's title, there's nothing kitsch or hokey about this farmhouse style. Beribboned geese need not apply.  

A tweedy herringbone provides a dapper contrast to the worn surface of a wooden chest of drawers. Usually I abhor overstuffed down pillows--I always feel like they're devouring me as I sink into them--but this cozy little reading nook is definitely calling my name.

I like to imagine the sort of meals and gatherings that a vignette such as this might witness. Perhaps a Mother's Day brunch? Piping hot waffles, freshly squeezed orange juice, crispy bacon. Multiple generations gazing lovingly at each other across the table--'imagine' being the operative word here ;)

The wing chair isn't much on my radar--not when there are so many divine bergeres competing for my attention. But this shabby, much-loved specimen makes me think I should reconsider my previous neglect the wing chair. Or at least devote an installment of Chairs of the World to this style!

I almost didn't include this image. 'Does blogland need another all-white bedroom?' I wondered. But then I took a look at the dark, moody painting on the wall, the unexpected presence of two architects' lamps, the giant hope chest in the foreground. And I decided, 'Yes. Yes it does.'

I have a major soft spot for yellow ware, making this my favorite image in the whole book. One day, when I supplement my city digs with a house in the country, I'll fill every room with stacks and stacks of my favorite vintage and flea market finds. Until then, these pictures will do just fine.

All images courtesy of New Farmhouse Style.

Polka Dots: The Sequel

Remember last week when I told you how much I love polka dots? Well, I wasn't kidding! My polka dot Elizabeth and James Artist shirt is the current star of my wardrobe--and with the gorgeous spring weather we had over the weekend, I couldn't resist wearing it for a little frolic in the sunshine!

When I find a favorite item of clothing I obsess big time. Case in point: I also have this shirt in blue and in white. Is it my fault that the boyfriend fit drapes perfectly? That the pockets sit just right? That 'the girls' miraculously don't cause the buttons to gape or pull? And now the Artist shirt comes in stripes too. Oh boy, I'm in trouble!

Combined with a flirty skirt, a ballerina bun, and my most Audrey-worthy flats, my polka dots had me feeling very Roman Holiday. So the huz and I played tourists at San Francisco's City Hall, a celebrated architectural gem in the heart of the city. It's a must-see if you're ever in town--leaping and twirling optional!

P.S. I usually post twice every day, but for the next couple weeks I'll only be posting once per day. Don't worry: I'm not abandoning you, I'm just working on a massive project to which I need to devote some extra time. I can't wait to share it with you when it's all done!