The City Sage

Can't Get Enough: Cheerful Gingham

Phew! I am moving like a turtle on this dreary morning. I could use another two or three days (weeks!) of lounging about. Since that won't be happening any time soon, I'm in search of an anecdote to the Monday blahs--and these energetic gingham prints are just what the doctor ordered!

Last week at the flea market I happened upon a bin of vintage textiles that was chock full of ginghams in every size and color. At $5 for each giant bolt, how could I not snap up a few? Now my imagination is racing with the possibilities: bedspreads, table clothes, cafe curtains? Stay tuned!

P.S. Remember the fabulous Valentine's Day tabletop created by Kelly Oshiro, my favorite event designer? Kelly has a gorgeous new website to drool over!

Image Credits: 1. J. Crew 2. House Beautiful 3, 5. Perfect English Cottage 6,7. Toast 8. Ellie Grover via Style Me Pretty

Trend Lust: Polka Dots

Is there any pattern more cheery than the polka dot? Just looking at this season's plethora of spotted pieces makes me feel like a jubilant kid. I want to dress in a polka dot skirt, play hopscotch and double dutch, sip malteds and milkshakes, and revel in the whimsical wonder of this playful print.

I love all the different variations on the theme. From the teeny-tiny spots on a 1940's-inspired blouse to the jumbo grid circles on a statement-making rug, polka dots always keep you on your toes. Plus you don't need much to get the full effect--a peek of lingerie or some fun kitchen towels will do the trick!

I already have a few polka dot items in my closet, and I'd like to tuck some spotted surprises around the house as well. Those drawer pulls provide the perfect subtle nod to this trend, and I've long been a fan of that DwellStudio rug. Tell me: do you love polka dots as much as I do?

P.S. See what else is on my wishlist for spring...including a new (short) haircut?

Shopping Guide: Dress, Espadrille Wedges, Maillot, Cosmetics Bag, Ribbon, Drawer Pulls, Bowl, Plate, Coasters, Rug. Image Credits: 1. Urban Outfitters 2. Perfect English Cottage 3. Second Bedroom 4. Lyell 5. Anthropologie 6. French Country Living 7. The Rug Company 8. Elle Russia April 2010

Inspired By: Lyell Spring 2010

Is there a clothing label that speaks directly to you? That has created an entire world based solely on your whims and fancies? That beckons with seductive looks and the sultry swish of silk? For me that label is Lyell. The Spring 2010 lookbook has captured my imagination with its haute boho vibe.

So naturally I had to round out the brand's vision with a few inspiration boards of my own! Part insouciant modern, part ramshackle chic, think 1960's artists' colony; Upper East Side rich girl slumming it with her grungy beatnik boyfriend; a tiny heart tattoo that she hides from her parents.

I'd recreate the look at home with crochet and macrame, translucent chiffon and colorful scarves strewn about. Big pillows for sitting on the floor, books piled everywhere, walls haphazardly covered with sketches, photos and paintings. Style your hair in a messy chignon and smudge your eyeliner extra thick.

Clearly, the team behind Lyell loves interiors as much as they love fashion---check out previous seasons' imagery and admire the brand's store in New York. Swoon!

Image credits: 1, 3, 5, 8, 9, 12, 13, 16. Lyell 2, 10. Etcetera 4, 11. Skona Hem 6. Unknown 7. IJM 14, 16. Flea Market Style

Adorable Printed Textiles from Envelop

I am always on the lookout for fun pillows, aprons, napkins and other cloth goods. They're a quick and easy way to bring personality into your own space, and they make great gifts for those endless rounds of showers, housewarmings, and birthday parties that seem to pop up. And Envelop is one of my favorite resources yet!

Each unique piece in the shop---there are over 800 to choose from!---is designed by an independent artist. Anyone can submit a design for production, so it's a great way to gain exposure to up-and-coming graphic and textile designers. Plus these fun finds are so happy-making!

Oh, and another awesome thing about Envelop? Worldwide shipping is free! I'm especially fond of the designs from San Francisco artist CharmaineOlivia. That's her silhouette ship pillow above. Wouldn't it be a perfect addition to this morning's nautical musings?

Shopping Guide: 1. Cloud Pillow 2. Psychedellic Flower Pillow 3. Funky '80's Print Apron 4. Striped Oven Mitt 5. Swirly Pillow 6. Ice Cream Pillow 7. Ampersand Tote 8. Lemonade Tote 9. Fox Tote 10. Alphabet Apron 11. Coat Girl Apron 12. Silhouette Ship Pillow

Trend Lust: Stripes

Okay, the allure of stripes is nothing new. But lately I love them more than ever. Fortunately, the powers that be have designated them one of this season's top trends for both fashion and interiors. So we can indulge our stripes obsession and pat ourselves on the back for being ahead of the curve.

I want to paint stripes on everything. And I want to do it in every color imaginable. From the classic combination of black and white to subtle tone-on-tone blues or greys, the powerful graphic appeal and cheery sensibility of this pattern always feels right.

So go ahead--get stripe crazy! Go big with dresses and tanks, sofas and pillows. Or add just a touch with a perfect nautical canvas bag or shoes, vibrant table runner and ceramics. Mix and match to your hearts galore. You really can't go wrong!

Shopping Guide: Steven Alan Dress, Aubin & Wills Racerback Tank, Lands End Canvas Tote, TOMS Striped Grosgrain Shoes, Wisteria Settee, Anthropologie Table Runner, Ikea Seat Cushions, Lee Karen Lamp, Dairy Maid Crockery. Image Credits: 1, 5. Living Etc. 2, 6. J. Crew 3. Lacoste 4. Italian Country Living 7. Anthropologie 8. Elle Decoration France

Inspired By: Louis Vuitton Spring 2010

When I first saw this spring's Louis Vuitton ad campaign, I gasped with wonder and awe. It's such a departure from the glitz and polished glamour of previous seasons. The dark, bestial overtones have me captivated.

These ads remind me of A Midsummer Night's Dream--one of my favorite Shakespeare plays. Think mischievous fairies and magic potions; nighttime escapades beyond the city walls; lovers' rendezvous in shadowed glens and vine entangled bowers.

Shot by Steven Meisel, the images are sultry and sophisticated, layered and lush. Channel the look with Venetian mirrors, mercury glass, and overgrown bouquets bursting from the vase. Or, you know, with a fabulous bag.

P.S. More haute inspiration from Burberry, Chanel and Bottega Veneta!

Image Credits: 1, 5, 9. Steven Meisel for Louis Vuitton. 2, 4, 6, 7, 12. Italian Country Living 3, 8, 10, 11. Elle Decoration France

Outfit to Room: Spring 2010 Trends

Blushing Beauties: This spring a rosy glow is everywhere. Channel the rush of new love--or the flush that comes with scoring a killer pair of shoes. Dust on pinched-cheek color with a super soft cashmere sweater in warm rose, or try linen toss pillows in pale petunia.

Outrageous Florals: No fainting violets need apply--these blossoms are large and in charge. Saturated reds, greens and blues look fresh on a backdrop of white or black. Delicate accessories will get lost in the fray, so choose chunky jewelry and statement shoes. At home, nothing less than your biggest, boldest vase will do.

Femme Militaire: Khaki and dun, leather and canvas, all with a ladylike twist. Invest in a ruched trench or gathered shirtdress. Find your most proper tea party chair and re-cover it in rough burlap. The colors and materials might say 'Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy', but the shapes and lines sing soprano.

Confectionary Concoctions: Marshmallows, meringues and macarons. Cotton candy colors and puffy, fluffy textures that beg to float in the breeze. A full skirt takes on an even tastier vibe in shades of mint or nectarine. Baroque upholstery gets an extra dose of sugar with orchid and sherbet hues. It's sweet indulgence without the calories!

Global Layers: Ikats and suzanis are still going strong. Pair patterns of different size and scale but keep the look harmonious by sticking with a single palette. Or you know what? Go crazy--mix and match colors too! In this case, the more the merrier, and I'm feeling very merry indeed because it's Friday. Happy weekend everyone!

Image Credits: 1. T Magazine Spring 2010 2. The Well Dressed Home 3. Max Ferago for Elle March 2010 4. Kristin Perers 5. Serge Leblon for Elle March 2010 6. Elle Decoration France January 2010 7. Salvatore Ferragamo 8. Elle Decoration France April 2010 9. Lachlan Bailey for Harpers Bazaar March 2010 10. Domino. Sponsored Links: Guaranteed JN0-350 exam preparation with self paced 642-655 study guide and practice test. Also get free demos of MB2-631 test.

Floral Musings for a Thursday Afternoon

The weekend is so close I can almost taste it, and we've been promised clear blue skies! I can't wait to take a long walk and admire the city as it blossoms to life; the arrival of spring's flowers never fails to strike me with wonder and awe.

Lilacs are a personal favorite. When I was growing up in Toronto, they were always in bloom on my birthday. Their heady scent still reminds me of special pancake breakfasts and oodles of gifts---though it's been awhile since I met my birthday with anything but a curmudgeonly scowl.

A lovely, clever friend of mine can't stand cut flowers; their inevitable decline makes her feel sad. I certainly understand that point of view, and though it's never stopped me from buying bouquets at the market, it does make me appreciate all the more a pot of hyacinth or daffodils thriving indoors.

What are your favorite spring flowers? How often do you bring them home, and how do you arrange them in your house? I'm so curious about the floral habits of others, so please do tell all!

Image Credits: 1, 7. Country Living 2. Found Style 3. Martha Stewart 4, 6. Domino 5. Johnny Miller 8. Unknown

Totally Digging: Psychedelic Americana

Call them what you will---groovy, fine or far out---but I'm all over these wallpaper designs by Julia Ziegler-Haynes for Cavern Home. Part of a limited release of Artists' Editions, the designs capture a crazy quilt Americana vibe that's transported me back to my grandparents' house circa 1976.

Part primitive crafts and part hippy dippy, I've noticed this sensibility everywhere lately. Interiors with worn velvet upholstery, colorful needlepoint pillows, and patchwork patterns of saturated color. Apparel with mixed florals, flowy shapes, and materials like cork, batik, and braided leather.

Of course you needn't replicate the set of 'Rhoda' to get this look. A feature wall with one of these wallpapers will do just fine. So will a braided rug or a simple Mason jar full of camomile flowers. Try parting your hair in the middle instead of to the side, and experiment with this season's maxi skirts. Then crank up Jefferson Airplane and get copacetic, man!

Image Credits: 1, 4, 9. Cavern Home 2, 4. Domino 3. Elle Decor April 2010 6. Vogue March 2010 7. Domino 8, 10. Johnny Miller 11. The Find by Stan Williams 12. Jock Sturges

Jewelry to Room: Tough Luxe with C. Viviani

I adore this spring's soft, flirty styles: florals and frills, ruffles and lace. But all that girly goodness needs an edgy counterpoint--and C. Viviani jewelry is just what the fashion doctor ordered. I adore these chunky faceted baubles and the rough twist they add to even the most ladylike outfits. Because even ballerinas like to punk it up now and again!

And of course I couldn't resist pairing these ensembles with some moody, dramatic interiors. A sculptural cuff sets the tone for a modern, architectural statement. Bits of lace and curvy lines add a soft touch, all while maintaining the strong graphic sensibility of this look.

A casual weekend vibe gets a posh update with this stunning link bracelet. Insider details like a McQ tunic or Naoto Fukasawa pouf whisper, 'I know what I'm talking about,' while punchy brights and slouchy shapes say, 'But I don't take myself to seriously...much.'

Jewelry: C. Viviani. Interiors: 1. Martha Stewart Weddings Spring 2010 2. Nuevo Estilo 3. Architectural Digest France. Shopping Guide Board One: Burberry Tumbled Leather Brogues, Nini Ricci Handbag, Bird by Juicy Couture Feathered Tee, Topshop Floral Ruffle Skirt. Board Two: The Row Sunglasses, Topshop Woven Shopper, Kova & T Lace and Silk Minidress, Maison Martin Margiela Booties. Board Three: Bloch Ballet Flats, Adidas by Stella McCartney Hobo, McQ Printed Tunic, Acne Silk Chiffon Shorts.