pure simplicity: filippa k

Do you ever come across a designer that you instantly fall head over heels in love with? Filippa K is one of those designers for me. Over the past few years I've been admiring each and every collection Filippa K designs. Season after season she surprises me with her effortlessly chic looks and each piece embodies a simplicity that I adore. This season she has outdone herself - the neutral palette along with the wearable designs makes me want to run (not walk) to the store just five blocks from my office. As Daniella said, "swooning" is the perfect word to describe this line.

*photos via filippa k

10 Things That Make Me Happy: Greige

The weekend has come and gone in a heart beat. I had a busy and productive weekend - working, helping a friend style looks for her lookbook for Spring, was able to see friends and enjoy a little time at home with Eric. All in all it was a great weekend.

Today, I'm very very excited to have Christina from Greige Design guest blogging here about what makes her happy! She inspires me every single day with amazing images that she fines in all things gray (my favorite color to decorate with). If you haven't checked out her fabulous blog - click over, your bound to find a wealth of inspiration that will fill your soul.

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Thank you so much to Caitlin for including me in her 10 things that make me happy series... I am so excited to share with all of you! I had a hard time narrowing it down to just 10, but here are my favorites.

1. J. Crew's fall collection- this leather jacket is to die for... They never fail to impress!

2. Cut flowers are wonderful and as summer fades so does the variety of good flowers here in So. Cal. As it gets so warm here in late summer they are harder and harder to find.

3. Organic bedding a sheeting. I have just ordered my first set of organic linen sheets (a dream I have had for a long time) I am so excited! It is said that they will last a lifetime.

4. Feed Bags. I have 2 different types of these wonderful bags and everyone seems to love them as much as I do. They are a wonderful way to give a little.

5. Burt's bees lip balm. I have about 10 of these floating around the house, in my purse and in the car. I live for this stuff- in the summer it is a life saver!

6. Amery Carriere handmade jewelry. I fell in love with her pieces at the last LA show and I am addicted! I want more and more. Her stacking ring sets are to die for!

7. Paris. I am dreaming of Paris right now as I try and plan a trip with the girls for the spring.. This is a beautiful image by Chelsea Victoria.

8. Astier de Villatte dishes are my favorite thing to collect. I love their handmade shapes and texture. Simply the best!

9.Tory Burch Miller Sandals. I have been wearing these all summer and I love them! I will hold out until it is just too cold. They are perfect for every outfit!

10. Vintage French Documents. I am obsessed with Vintage documents. I have been framing them for months and using them everywhere I can find!! They are the perfect way to put a unique touch into a space.

happy weekend!

It's Friday! This week I've been thinking Monday was Tuesday, Tuesday was Wednesday and well, you get where I'm going with this – it has felt looooong.

I'm excited that the weekend has arrived and I'll be enjoying it from the comfort of my own home. Home cooked breakfasts, staying in my pajamas until the afternoon and getting projects crossed off my to-do list is how I’ll be spending this weekend. Don't worry, movies I've been wanting to watch will be on in the background and I'm sure lots of jokes will come out from my husband throughout the next two days. Who says you can't have a little fun when you work?

Hope all of you have a lovely weekend!

*photos via pretty stuff

isabel marant + kate moss

When you combine Isabel Marant and Kate Moss, there can be no wrong. Kate Moss is the new face of the designer's F/W 2010 collection. I've been in love with Isabel Marant’s clothing for years - I cherish each garment that I own. This duo knocks it out of the park.

*photos by by Inez Van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin via design scene

Another Rue Magazine Sneak Peek

Oops, we did it again. We couldn't resist keeping these images to ourselves - can you blame us? With the launch date quickly approaching it's getting harder and harder for us to keep everything a secret. Enjoy!

Thank you CasaSugar for the lovely feature and interview with Rue today, your support means the world to all four of us.

*The images are by Laure Joliet for Rue Magazine

mission accomplished

I've been searching far and wide for some inspiration for my Mom's bedroom - this is the image. My Mom's bed identical to the one above. We've been trying to decide how to make it more modern and up to date. Switching out her matching side tables and adding a tulip side table along with a patterned rug and a West Elm lamp (already owned) will complete the look we've been trying to achieve.

Be sure to visit Karen's blog The Art of Doing it's on of my favorites, and see her entire house on Style at Home. There is inspiration in every little corner!

*photo via the art of doing

a pop of color + a guest post

Ah, summertime please don't leave us. Most of you are transitioning from summer brights to warm neutrals. I think all of us on the West Coast will be waiting a few more weeks as we're just busting out our sun dresses, swim suits and sandals (embarrassing that I had to dig out my sundresses from the back of my husbands closet). This pop of color is perfect for an all white room - I'm in love!

Be sure to check out my guest post on Kelley Moore's blog For the Love of Design. She kicked off her Ramblings series today that will feature each lady that is helping start Rue Magazine. I was lucky enough to go first. I guarantee you find out a lot more about me than you would expect.

*photo bluepoolroad

living by the bay . . .

I've been taking full advantage of this lovely weather with long afternoon walks around the city (giving me a view of the entire bay). Watching the sailboats glide across the bay is so beautiful. I'm thinking I need to find someone with a boat - the sea breeze must feel amazing on 90+ degree day. I need to relish these few summer days we get. A long lunch today is definitely in order!

*photos via Pretty Stuff

summertime!

Our summer weather has finally arrived. We've been waiting a long time and I'm definitely ready to enjoy lots of time outside. Relaxing in the park with a good book is on the agenda and alfresco dinners with friends. It's these few hot days that we cherish in San Francisco and everyone comes out to play. Let's hope it sticks around for a least a couple days!

*photos via daily cup of couture

On the Menu: Peach Blueberry Galettes

Yesterday I had to dig out my sundresses because we're finally getting a taste of summer weather. It feels oh so good!

Lately I've been eating peaches, blueberries, plums and strawberries like they are going out of season. I found a delicious recipe that everyone should try - you won't regret it.

These petite peach and blueberry galettes are the perfect summer dessert for an August night. If you want to transport yourself to heaven, this is the dessert. Thank you Helen for letting me share your beautiful photos and recipe with my readers. Don't forget to get the recipe here.

*photos via Tartelette

10 Things That Make Me Happy: Pretty Lovely

Summer has finally arrived! The skies are bright blue, the sun is shining and the warm air feels - oh, so, good. Hallelujah!

Today, I'm very very excited to have Samantha from Pretty Lovely guest blogging about the things that make her happy. Her picks are amazing - I wanted not just one, but everything she lists. Plus, we're strikingly similar, my first stop in Paris was the Mariage Fréres store. I spent WAY too much money there, but I love everything I purchased. Watch out Samantha, it's deadly!

Hope all of you have a wonderful Monday! And enjoy this post.

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Caitlin, thank you so very much for inviting me to participate in this series. Your blog is truly fantastic and I am so honored to be involved. I am eagerly anticipating Rue's first issue and wish you the best of luck!

Although I am taking a break from Pretty Lovely to focus on some wonderful things that have happened to me in the recent year, you can still find me writing about design, architecture, and art for the blog We Love DC.

I don't know about all of you, but is has been one uber-humid summer here in D.C. - and I am desperately pleading for fall to arrive. Every morning I wake up and stand on my balcony hoping that a cool breeze will tickle my toes, and to my dismay the weatherman has yet to answer my prayers. At last, Caitlin has asked me to share the 10 things that make me happy and now I get to daydream of my favorite time of year just a little bit more. This list offers me a lot of happiness these days and I hope that it brings you a bit of joy too!

When the weather turns cold I find myself writing more. Nothing is more relaxing than sketching or brainstorming for my next story under a warm blanket on the sofa. Moleskin notebooks are a must have for me.

Every fall I look for a classic, tailored trench coat and have yet to find one that meets all of my criteria. I have a good feeling that this beauty - Shoulder Pad Trench Coat, may just make the cut this time around.

I am a huge fan of Bon Iver. Although his soulful music is perfect to listen to no matter what the season, when I hear the song "Flume" I am automatically transported to a memory of a brisk fall morning.

I am a stickler when it comes to nail polish. In the summer I always wear sheers and in the fall it's all about the darks. I purchased this Chanel Le Vernis Nail Colour in Paradoxal a month ago and can't wait for the weather to drop below 60 so that this pretty jewel tone can adorn my fingers and toes.

Woody Allen's Everyone Says I Love You (1996) is the perfect fall movie. The first scene with Drew Barrymore and Edward Norton in New York City is just stunning. This has become a permanent fixture in my Netflix Queue.

I am going to be in Paris at the end of September and already know that I will be spending a good amount of money at Mariage Fréres. The French Breakfast and Jasmin Mandarin are heavenly.

I have been growing out my hair all spring and summer so that come fall I can have long, luscious locks. Thanks to these Phyto "miracle vitamins" and Oribe's Royal Blowout, I am well on my way to channeling Ali MacGraw in Love Story (1970).

Well, no season, no matter how lovely, will make me happy without my Newfoundland Izzy around (not available for purchase).

I recently saw these in a store and took note. They are without a doubt going to be my go to shoes for fall. I love how these classic oxford wedges were given a new twist by the fabulous Tory Burch.

These candles don't come cheap, but they are worth every penny. They last for a long time and make my entire home smell incredible. Almost every scent is good, but my favorite remains to be Figuier.

it's friday!

This weekend is all about enjoying some time away from my computer, going on a few roller-coaster rides (Eric's one request this weekend), some much needed girl-talk with my two besties and relishing the fact that I can stay in bed past sunrise.

I hope all of you have a wonderful weekend.

P.S. Be sure to check out an exclusive sneak peek of Rue Magazine and also be sure to save the date for What's New What's Next. If you're looking for a magical place to transport yourself - click here.

*photo via bluepoolroad

Exclusive Rue Magazine Sneak Peek

The Rue team couldn't resist waiting until our launch to leak a few images. Our very good friends over at ShelterPop wrote a lovely article about our launch. Click here to read the full article.

It looks like Rue has taken on a life of its own and I'm definitely ready for the ride!

Thank you all for your amazing love and support. It has felt like we have a bunch of cheerleaders supporting us along this amazing journey!

*photos via Manny Rodriguez for Rue Magazine

I'm Loving . . .

Can you tell that I'm in a fall mood this week? I have a feeling it has to do with the blue skies, crisp air and sea breeze here in San Francisco. I've been stocking up on fall clothes already, mainly because I can already wear them. I make a list every month of things I'm coveting - these are them. The cute black booties and gray pull-over sweater have been worn so much my husband has noticed (which is never a good sign). I'm dying to get a pair of army green pants, they are a great alternative to jeans for work and the bag - le sigh - would be the perfect for work, but alas WAY out of my budget.

What are some of your early fall favorites? I'd love to know!

*photos via pants, sweater, handbag, and booties

Rue Magazine at 'What's New What's Next @ 200 Lex!'

It's been another exciting week. Ladies and gents, we're packing our bags and heading to New York this September! I'm sure by now you've heard through twitter and facebook that Rue will be part of "What's New What's Next @ 200 Lex" program on September 22nd. Can you believe it? I'm still pinching myself. It's an honor to be part of New York Design Center's event - I've been reading about it and wanting to go for years.

The entire day is dedicated to presentations and panels by the most elite designers and editors. Everybody in the industry will be in attendance. Be sure to stop by Suite 100 where all of the Rue Magazine editors will be whipping up fall entertaining tips. We'll be collaborating with Marissa Lippert of Nourish an amazing NYC chef (her food is delicious) and InHouse Kitchen Bath Home.

After all the wonderful presentations (Vicente Wolfe, Newell Turner, Suzanne Kasler - OH MY!) be sure to come and join us for a toast. We'll be celebrating the launch of Rue Magazine and raising our glasses to the end of yet another phenomenal year of "What's New What's Next @ 200 Lex." Hope to see you there and I can't wait to be NYC bound!

a magical place

As the days begin to get shorter, I'm reminded that autumn is right around the corner. This is the time of year I look forward to nesting. The hubby loves when I try out new recipes and this is just the time when I love to cook. This lovely home evokes the fall colors. I can almost smell the air with the leaves turning - I can't wait!

*photos via Leslie Williamson

ready for fall + a guest post

Hello fall wardrobe! I'm ready for lots of layers, new colors and boots - well, not quite ready. I'll definitely be looking for warm rosy pinks, dark browns and of course a touch of carmel colors. Even though we haven't had a summer, my favorite time of year is fall. These outfits instantly put me in the mood to change over my wardrobe.

Also, be sure to check out my guest post over on Everything Fabulous.

*photos via fashionising

10 Things That Make Me Happy: Life in a Venti Cup

Hello Monday! I've been traveling since last Wednesday, enjoying the Pacific Northwest. This weekend I got to soak up warm weather, sip cocktails with Erin and Cassandra, and witness a beautiful wedding on a lake - it was magical.

Well lovelies, today I'm very excited to have Franki from Life in a Venti Cup. I've been following Franki for a long time and love her style, inspiration and best of all her sense of humor. Thank you so much for guest blogging here today!

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First, Caitlin, thank you or featuring me on your fascinating blog. You have a loyal following, and I'm grateful to have been included in your list of participants. The idea of outlining ten things that make us happy is such a fun concept for a series. I keep telling myself I'll make a new list for myself each week, as the answers would vary nearly every day! You've inspired me to try it out ;)

Without further ado, here's my "Venti 10"...

Russel & Hazel Pink Binder

These are SO pretty on my desk. You don't have to choose pink, as they come in many colors, but the pink makes me oh-so-happy. I'm satisfying my OCD addiction, my type-A tendencies and my "it has to be perfect" aesthetic desires all in one punch. I personally love using three in a row on my desktop for more impact and more organization possibilities. $24 @ Russel & Hazel.

Jo Malone Candles

I tried desperately to resist the siren call of these candles. They are pricey! Fortunately you can buy the more affordable travel or home size, which come in beautiful glass containers and last forever. The Pomegranate Noir is sensational!!! $65 @ Saks

Brown Sugar Body Polish

Still slaving over your legs in the quest for the perfect shave, shine and tone? One shower with this and you'll be pulling out your short-shorts and begging people to come stare at your long, beautiful legs. It also smells divine and performs wonders on feet and hands. Buy extra, you'll use this every day. $65 for over 14oz @ Sephora

Ole Henriksen Truth Serum

I recently wrote about this amazing serum. For less that $50 it makes my complexion glow and my heart flutter. I can't say enough about this good-smelling, high-performing miracle in a bottle! $48 @ Sephora

Bliss Triple Oxygenating Moisturizing Cream & Mask

Skin need a fix? I use this moisturizing cream daily & the mask weekly (more like 2x a week if I'm being honest). Do yourself a favor and try it out. Brightens, tightens and plumps my skin to perfection. $54 and $52 respectively @ Sephora

Mirrored Furniture

Delicate. Impractical. Easily ruined. Completely necessary. I can't help myself, I love mirrored furniture. Whether it be a simple side table or a glamorous vanity, a piece of reflective furniture brightens any space and makes your guests take note. I particularly love an entry console for the dramatic statement it makes in a foyer. Prices vary, seek inspiration @ Horchow and Graham & Green

Graham & Brown Wallpaper

Just looking at the collections makes me want to move - just so I can decorate an entirely new home. There are many, many fabulous brands out there, but the G & B options never disappoint! $60/roll @ Graham & Brown

Wrap Dresses

You can't go wrong with a dress that conforms itself to your body. Genius. This dress is sitting in my online shopping cart at Saks. I'm trying to convince myself I don't need it, but I am absolutely smitten with it. It's DVF (the godmother of all wrap dress brands), it's the perfect color combo (wear with nude, black OR pink heels) and it looks as though it will hug my curves "just so" and do wonders for my "what to wear to dinner tonight" quandary. fab-u-lous! $345 @ Saks and Net-a-porter

Built NY Laptop Sleeve

This summer I downsized to a 15" laptop. Life changing! My "office" is now so much more portable than it was when I lugged around a heavy 17" Powerbook. Best of all, I was able to fit my trusty new Mac into a Jonathan Adler-worthy sleeve. These bright, festive covers from Built NY are easy to hold and add a pop of color to any outfit. Who says work can't be fun? $36 @ See Jane Work

Platform Wedges

Let's just say I'm a girl who could use more height. Platform wedges are my summer essential. They elongate the leg, are a snap to walk in and offer comfort and stability few heels can match. I'm particularly infatuated with these Jimmy Choo Espadrilles. They are the perfect nude-pink that goes with any and everything. Adoring Choo fans rave about their comfort and versatility. $395 @ Net-a-porter (but don't be too proud to look at the $20 and $30 options everywhere that give these a run for their money!