Monthly Musings: Bold Pastels
Move over neon and jewel tones; there's a new kid on the {color} block. Pastels are making a comeback with some serious clout in the fashion, home and event industries this spring. Pink, purple, green, blue, coral and yellow - the sky is the limit on how pastel-happy you want to get. And fortunately for us, these soft shades had a major upgrade so there won't be any resemblance to the Easter Bunny. This season, through sophisticated midi skirts, sleek heels, and evening bags, designers proved pastels to be fashionable, not infantile.
For you home interior lovers, swap out your winter throw pillows for softer hues and pair them with your classic neutrals for the perfect spring refresh. Brighten up your kitchen with some pastel dish ware or head to the pool with this adorable beach radio from Anthropologie.
Looking for a new look for your next outdoor party or spring wedding? Infuse this trend into your entertaining by trying out a soft and sweet table setting, a blush-lush bouquet or some tasty macaroons.
Monthly Musing: Laser-cut
A cut here, a nip there....we homepage couldn't help http://mccallssf.com/ but notice the laser-cut details and strategic peeks of skin that walked the runway this spring at NYFW. This cutting edge of a trend {pun not intended} may have started on the runway with models showing slivers of skin through tasteful, precise cutouts, but it has now translated well into home decor {we are dying over these side tables} and special events + weddings. Join us this spring and play "peek-a-boo" with some laser-cut details!
Monthly Musing: Metallics
Typically reserved for special occasions, metallics are set to make their debut this spring for everyday use.
Typically reserved for special occasions, metallics are set to make their debut this spring for everyday use. This past September, precious metal fabrics were seen all over the runways. Everyone from Dolce & Gabbana to Rodarte were draping models in shimmery foils. Not just for fashion, this trend is just perfect to add a luxe feel to events + weddings like this unexpected cake design or infuse the futuristic shine to your morning caffein fix. Prove your "metal" and shine on! Check out our Pinterest board to see what what other metallic must-have's are striking our fancy this March!
Monthly Musing: Blush
Less sticky sweet and more mellow pastel, Blush is hot for Spring 2014.
February is typically all red hearts and cotton candy pink as far as the eye can see. Whether you eschew the sentiment as a marketing ploy or embrace it with your honey, you're sure to see Blush all around this month and into the next. Less sticky sweet and more mellow pastel, Blush is hot for Spring 2014. This lovely hue can be paired with brights as a fun pop or treated as a neutral ease. This year's blush is subtle and all grown up! Check out the recipe for one of our favorite signature cocktails, the Blushing Buzz.
Trend Alert: Radiant Orchid
A peek inside why we love Spring's new "it" color!
Days before my dreams of attending NYFW came true, Pantone announced its top ten colors for Spring. As many fashionistas {including myself} held their breath waiting to hear the color of the year….Radiant Orchid stepped out as the next “IT” hue.
As retailers begin to dwindle down their Fall/Winter collections, it is evident that Radiant Orchid is already in full-bloom! Whether you are looking to spice up your Spring wardrobe with a bold coat {like this beaut from J crew}, an ultra feminine skater dress, a killer pair of pumps, or an eye-catching bag, it’s definitely time to recycle some of those black, whites and greys and add some pep to your closet! What about you forever neutral-lovers? Fret not. This new color is popping up all over home decor, in your favorite beauty products as even in your favorite tech toys!
For all you entertainers and party throwers {or just lovers of all things pretty}, why not mix in this new ‘it” hue to one of your favorite spring cocktails with some lavender + berries? You can also woo your guests with some always-tasty macaroons!
Need a little extra push to incorporate this delicious blend of pink + purple into your wardrobe? Remember that the SA styling team always has your back! Click here to view our wardrobe styling services in-full.
Monthly Musings: Minimalism
This season, try surrounding yourself with the ease and calm of Minimalism.
Maybe it’s to distract ourselves from the arctic chill that is the current weather, but we all love an excuse to show off our blinged-out best in the winter. That’s great for some, but what is one to do if they want to exercise a ‘less is more’ approach? Try surrounding yourself with the ease and calm of Minimalism. Looking for some new home design ideas? Why not take minimalism to your home by incorporating minimum furniture and details. All it takes is some simple shapes, textures, and clean lines. We love the simplicity of this calming bedside table and entry table. But for you lovers of color, Minimalism doesn’t only call for neutrals. Adding in a bold paint color can give you this look without being too literal.
This modern and clean trend also translates great into your event or wedding. Stay simple and woo your guests with these clean invites, or warm up your space with some bold uplighting juxtaposed with some contemporary clear glass and sparse florals.
For all you fashionistas, Minimalism isn’t just limited to interiors. This season, practice the Coco Chanel “less is more” mentality and play around with some chic, simple looks like this black shift dress + booties pairing. Want to add some texture? Why not throw in some clean lines to your classic black and white duo!
But nobody practices this trend better than one of our favorite {and local} beauty gurus, Elizabeth Dehn. Her product line for One Love Organics not only leaves our skin glowing but we are in love with its beautiful + simple branding.
Monthly Musings: Velvet
This season we are swooning over velvet.
If there’s one trend this season we are currently swooning over - it’s velvet. Velvet was all over the runway at fashion week {but were not talking about a stretch velvet twin set your grandma wore on Christmas}! There isn’t a better way to embrace the cold months than incorporating some plush, luxurious and oh-so-refined velvet pieces into your closet and your home. Blogger Anh {of 9to5chic} nailed this trend as she paired some killer jewel-toned velvet pants with a monochromatic ensemble on top for a beautifully balanced look. Guys, don’t let this trend intimidate you. We love some of the gents’ velvet pieces out this season- like this dapper velvet blazer that’s perfect dressed up with some slacks or worn more casual with a great pair of dark jeans.
For all you hosts and hostesses out there, this trend certainly isn’t limited to the closet. As we approach Holiday entertaining season, why not infuse some velvet into your party’s tablescape or your invitations in order to achieve that holiday glam look and feel without being too literal {red and green is so yesterday}!
Monthly Musings: Tartan
This season, designers are taking the matter into their own hands by putting a modern spin on this timeless print.
This year, we are {happily} noticing that squares, checks and tartans are among a few of autumn's most definitive prints. Not to be confused with your Great Grandpa’s kilt or your old private school uniform, both which should never be repeated. This season, designers are taking the matter into their own hands by putting a modern spin on this timeless print. Mixing plaids is so effortlessly preppy {if done properly!} The lovely Blair Eadie of Atlantic-Pacific killed it in this mixed-print ensemble completed with schoolboy blazer and plaid scarf. {You can find a similar one here at the new MOA Madewell} Looking for something a bit dressed-up for the days at the office? This tartan pantsuit is to-die-for! The beauty of tartan is that it’s not limited to only us women. Infuse it in your hubby, brother, or dad’s wardrobe through a dapper tie or pocket square, or even a cozy flannel!
In addition to incorporating this trend into your wardrobe, fall is the perfect time to mix it into your home by cuddling up in a cozy blanket with that special someone or through your entertaining with a fabulous tablescape. What about you brides and grooms to-be? We love this tartan-inspired invitation {as will your guests!}
There you have it friends, our favorite tartan treats. If you ask us, this versatile trend couldn’t be more perfect for fall/winter. From cozy blanket and scarf plaids to fully tailored blazers or trousers, it’s clear that this timeless pattern remains an oldie but goodie!
Monthly Musings: Renaissance Revival
Inspired by rich patterns, fabrics and bejeweled works of art from the past.
When you think Renaissance, you immediately think of gaudy and whimsical gowns, annoying and over-served jokers gnawing on turkey legs and drinking out of goblets full of {strange} brew. However, this fall, the runways are taking a more decadent, classy and non-literal approach that we are calling “Renaissance Revival.” Inspired by rich patterns, fabrics and bejeweled works of art from the past, this season, we can’t help but feast our eyes upon these amazing fashions and interiors. This year, go baroque and become the show stopper of your friends by incorporating opulent velvet, embellishments, prints and medallion patterns into your wardrobe like this spectacular baroque skirt and killer tapestry-inspired pumps.
But for all you Martha Stewarts out there, don’t worry- this trend can also be translated into your home and through your fabulous parties. We love this tablescape with bold colored linens and glassware completed with crystalized fruit-tied place cards. You can also achieve this look by adding extra texture and richness to your floral arrangements and invitations.
There are plenty of eras that should stay in the past, but if you ask us, Renaissance is not one of them. Join us in the revival by integrating this perfect fall trend into all aspects of your lifestyle.
Monthly Musings: Varsity Chic
There still time to give one of this year’s hottest trends the old college try.
There still time to give one of this year’s hottest trends the old college try. Varsity Chic is perfect for transitioning from summer to fall, and you don’t need to letter in track to get a hold of this trend. As temperatures turn brisk, top off a look with a letter style jacket like this one from Saks. Try two trends in one by adding a leather baseball stitched pillow to your favorite room. Have an event coming up? Collegiate block lettering can add a classy, retro look to invitations to weddings, baby showers, or even cocktail parties. Take it from us and you’ll be sure to get an A+ in style!
Monthly Musings: Pattern Play
You’ve heard it before. There are things in life that come together and create perfect harmony.
You’ve heard it before. There are things in life that come together and create perfect harmony even though they are from different ends of a spectrum. The classically yummy goodness that is a PB and J. The sweet, salty treat of sea salt and chocolate. And, let us not forget, the unique pairing of Aerosmith and Run DMC. Same is the idea behind Pattern Play. Not nearly as intimidating as it would seem, mixing prints, patterns and textures is a simple way to add instant interest. Stripes and florals in similar colors can be just as lovely as an abstract and polka dots. Start small and work your way to bold and you’ll be a mix master in no time!
Check out our Pinterest board for playful inspiration!
Monthly Musings: Americana
Who doesn’t love the 4th of July? And what a perfect time to showcase a trend that’s all our own....Americana!
Who doesn’t love the 4th of July? And what a perfect time to showcase a trend that’s all our own....Americana! I can almost taste the apple pie and, if you listen closely, you’ll hear the crack of bats at the local sandlot. It doesn’t take long to conjure images of Coca-Cola, picnic baskets, breezy backyard soirees, Norman Rockwell paintings, and stars n’ stripes. Pure nostalgia at its best. This weekend as you plan your Americana get togethers, turn up the tunes and check out our Pinterest board for your outfit and entertaining inspiration!
Monthly Musings: Easy Beachy
There's just something about summer that calls for relaxation, ease and a certain laid-back style.
Monthly Musings: The Great Gatsby
If you’re like us and, frankly, the entire rest of the free world, you’ve been counting down to this week for about a year.
If you’re like us and, frankly, the entire rest of the free world, you’ve been counting down to this week for about a year. The long awaited release of The Great Gatsby is finally here! Naturally, with the release of a film with this much clout, we begin to see its influence throughout pop culture. We love the idea, but a flapper dress and a sporty suit are not always appropriate. It is possible to celebrate the 20’s without donning a costume by incorporating little touches here and there. Add glamour to every day life with art deco shapes and rhinestones. Use a retro font for a nod to those dapper times. You can also wear the 20‘s with a wink this spring using a variety of accessories and well placed styling. With these ideas, you’re sure to be the cat’s pajamas! Images: Outfit; Cake; Intvitations; Menswear; PopFizzClink; Runway; Wedding Gown; Flowers
Monthly Musings: Monochromatic
A far cry from the matchy-matchy sweater sets you’ve seen before, and more pronounced than last year’s ombre trend, monochromatic looks have covered the runways this season.
A far cry from the matchy-matchy sweater sets you’ve seen before, and more pronounced than last year’s ombre trend, monochromatic looks have covered the runways this season. If you’re worried this trend could be boring or lack creativity, let us change your mind. Try a bright head-to-toe hue when the warm temps are hear to stay. If you're more into neutrals, spice up all-white or all-black looks by playing with textures. The modern look of a tonally decorated room is a definitely a stunner to home guests. Sticking with a single decor color can give an unexpected item a chance to shine. Keep bouquets bold and modern in all over punch or ease into the trend by mixing similar colors for a muted touch. However you decide to incorporate monochromatic this spring, be it outrageous or more subtle, this trend takes the guess work out of chic and sleek!
Images: Yellow Outfit; Coral Oufit; Flowers; Blush Skirt; Blue Room; Green Kitchen; Gold Wedding; White Outfit
Monthly Musings: Black + White
Whether it be graphic prints, checks, stripes, or contrast blocking, it seems as though these staple colors are a match made in heaven.
Whether it be graphic prints, checks, stripes, or contrast blocking, it seems as though these staple colors are a match made in heaven.
Images: Outfit; Cake; Handbag; Gown; Invitations; Tablescape
Monthly Musings: Menswear Chic
Natty, jaunty and dapper. Words that aren’t used nearly enough, but just happen to be perfect for this month’s Monthly Musings.
Natty, jaunty and dapper. Words that aren’t used nearly enough, but just happen to be perfect for this month’s Monthly Musings. We ladies have been taking sartorial cues from guys for quite sometime, but the menswear trend is perfectly adaptable to other areas. In terms of fashion, there’s no need to veer into Victor/Victoria territory. Add just a few carefully edited pieces and it becomes cute, not costum-ey. Try pinstripe touches at your next event for a classic, slightly retro look. Don’t want to go overboard? Just swivel those napkins sideways and, boom, they give a nod to the bow tie. Herringbone, plaid, leather, and sharp lines. This trend is definitely made for a man, but strong enough for a woman. Check out our Pinterest Board for more dapper inspiration!
Vendor Feature: Phos
Meet Adam Welz from Phos, the man who can turn your wedding reception or event space from standard to simply stunning! Uplights, pin spots, gobos and moving lights… are they a foreign language to you? Not for this lighting guru. Adam is the perfect go-to for enhancing your wedding space. Adam is a rock star to work with and was sweet enough to provide our readers with exclusive advice on how to add that “WOW” factor to any event. Enjoy! 1.) What are the different types of lighting?
Uplighting:Lights are positioned around the room, dance floor, or even outside to help add warmth and that WOW factor that guests will envy. This type of lighting adds an accent to the room and creates depth and drama with light. This is the most affordable and impactful way to enhance any wedding space.
Centerpiece and Pin Spot Lighting:Pin spot lighting is a beautiful way to accent table centerpieces, wedding cake, sweets table, escort card table, pictures, and head table. These fixtures are called pin spots because they have a very tight beam angle. They light up a certain area with direct light that does not bleed off in every direction.
Custom Gobos:Custom gobos, also know as monograms, are created by cutting a piece of metal into text, names, initials, logos, or artwork. Light is projected through the gobo onto a wall, dance floor, ceiling, or draping.
Moving Lights: Moving lights are intelligent lighting fixtures that have automated or mechanical abilities. They are able to project multiple gobos and colors from one light. They also have the ability to move and create a moving texture on the ceiling or wall.
2.) What advice do you have for brides interested in lighting?
Lighting creates that WOW factor that guests will talk about for years to come. It is an important feature that transforms rooms from standard to stunning and incorporates color theme into the space. Phos recommends starting with perimeter uplighting and then, if your budget allows, adding pin spots, gobos, and moving lights. Phos’ package of 12 lights is priced as low as a couple hundred dollars.
3.) What colors trends are most commonly used at receptions?
In the last year, Phos provided lighting for over 100 weddings and the most popular color was varying shades of purple. For the upcoming wedding season, we still see purple as well as shades of green and blue. If possible, I think it looks best to use two colors because it adds depth and drama to the space.
4.) When choosing a lighting provider, what factors should a bride consider?
First and foremost, look at the quality and brightness of the lights that are being offered. The vendor with the cheapest quote is not necessary the best option. Ask for photos of their lighting at events and for a detailed list of the equipment being used. Be sure the package price includes applicable taxes, delivery, set up, tear down and travel.
5.) What sets Phos apart from other lighting providers?
Phos is a lighting and event decor company that builds custom lighting packages that fulfill our clients’ lighting desires within their budgets. We work with vendors to ensure the décor flows perfectly. Our lighting designers have an extensive knowledge of venues and years of experience. We provide wireless and battery powered lighting options. We are the first company in Minnesota to offer a brand new wireless pin spotting system that can place pin spots anywhere in the venue without cords and stands. Our goal is to make the lighting experience fun and convenient. We are more than happy to meet clients at their event venue to show our products and options that would best fit the space.
Hot Wedding Trends
About to start planning your dream wedding? Have no idea where to start, what theme to choose, what colors or location, dress and flowers? Here are a few of the hottest wedding trends of the year. Hopefully, you will find the inspiration you were lacking or at least get an idea of the latest bride and groom trends out there.
Rustic Weddings With A Touch Of Glam
It would seem this year is all about wedding that look natural, rustic, if you will, while keeping a sense of glam with the help of carefully chosen details. If you are willing to give the idea a try, keep in mind you will need to focus on faux fur overlays for the tables and centerpieces that feature branches filled with splendid flowers. Add mismatched dressed for the bridesmaids, but keep the spark on them. Don’t worry about fancy hardos; throw in some loose braids and they should be good to go. Focus on a long veil and pick a lacy dress with many flowers on it. Pick dainty flowers for the crowns of your flower girls and use plenty of branches. Use twinkle lights for the arrangement of your tent, if you are considering adding this rustic element to your wedding and build it as a nice children’s area. You could also opt for a wedding featuring a large band playing live music, candlesticks made of crystal, and waiters wearing white-gloves, for a more sophisticated note. If your head is already spinning thinking about the size of the expenses, look at this website and try your luck at your favorite game of lottery.
Another trending wedding idea is to organize a so-called unplugged wedding. This means your guests will be provided with the message that you would link for them not to use their phones to take pictures and film your event, but rather simply have fun and enjoy the moment.
Monthly Musings: Icy Mint
The color of ice cream, vintage Ford trucks, and the main ingredient in many a warm-weather cocktail. Mint is a color usually reserved for spring and Easter eggs, but feel free to jump the gun this year and pull those pieces out early.
Winter Pastel The color of ice cream, vintage Ford trucks, and the main ingredient in many a warm-weather cocktail. Mint is a color usually reserved for spring and Easter eggs, but feel free to jump the gun this year and pull those pieces out early. The crisp, fresh color of pastel mint is just right for late winter. Imagine the color of icy snowcaps or the sight of warm breath on a brisk day and you’ll soon come over to the light side!
Check out our Pinterest board for more icy inspiration!