Friday Buy Day

It's Friday Buy Day again and we don't have much time to waste with chitter-chatter.  There are tons of goodies on sale right now all over the web...J. Crew sale is additional 30% off the sale price and one of our other favorites, the Outnet, is having a clearance sale!  We have to share our top picks before they are sold out!!

First up, Rails plaid button down.  A lot of button-down style shirts can look boxy or manly.  Rails always gets it right with the perfect amount of tailoring through the middle for a slimming, but not tight, fit.  This blouse is made of a super soft weave and looks great with moto jeans and booties for a relaxed but edgy ensemble, or can be paired with skinny sweats and sneakers for a Saturday morning.  It comes in Raspberry/Navy or Cobalt/Navy with all sizes left.  At under $90 it is a great purchase you will wear regularly.

Next up, this funnel-neck sweatshirt from J. Crew.  I love the drawstring neckline, slouchy fit and pockets.  A perfect compliment to the Rails button-down mentioned above if styled with jeans and boots or jeans and high tops.  I would also wear it over a denim button-down with black leather leggings and a statement earring to make it more work-appropriate.  At 59.99 with an additional 30% off the sale price, it is a must-buy (especially for all you mommies).

I know it's loud, but what's the point of a statement necklace if it doesn't make a statement?  I love this with an equally bold printed dress for a wedding, or as the only shot of color for an all black ensemble.  At barely over $100 from $560, this necklace is sure to sell out soon.

Okay, now back to more practical items.  I LOVE these Current/Elliot stiletto biker jeans.  Day. Night.  Doesn't matter.  Love the wash, love the length (ankle length is the best for sneakers and stilettos), love the distressing and love the zippers.  For day, tuck in a plaid button down (see above) with flats, and style with a slinky blouse and embroidered high-heels for night.  Jeans are hard to buy online, but if you know that Current/Elliot is a nice fit for your body type then I would recommend buying these NOW!  All sizes left.  Only $148 (from $248).

Moto.  Midnight.  McQueen.  Need I say more?  This suede moto jacket by McQ for Alexander McQueen is only $399 (from $2000...all sizes left except 42) and is incredible.  Wear it over a feminine dress to add some edge, or pair it with a tee, and denim.  You're done.

Lastly, this chic and ethereal blouse from Parker (now on sale for $100 from $248).  100% silk, slightly bohemian with blouson sleeves and an effortlessly cool drape.  Tuck it into a pencil skirt for work, or wear with skinny black jeans and leopard booties for an evening on the town.  Timeless and feminine for the win.

Hope you've enjoyed this week's Friday Buy Day.  Get off the blog and on to shopping.

The Intimidation of an Art Collection

Most people would agree that buying art is really personal....that you should buy art you love. But where do you find art you love? And how do you incorporate into your space? Without an art dealer and a trust fund, can you find art that is meaningful and engaging?  Where do you buy original art on a budget? How much art do you need to make your space feel finished/complete?

Although there is no fail safe formula for buying cool and interesting pieces, we can recommend some inspiration and tips that work for us. 

First of all, art is not optional:). Having no art in your home is like getting fully dressed without doing your hair. It is not recommended. That being said, you certainly don't have to have a trust fund to purchase pieces that you love and that make your home feel complete. 

Often times when we are designing a room, Shannon and I will choose larger furniture pieces in more neutral colors (greys, taupes, creams) so that our clients have the option to change pillows and textiles throughout the year as a way to easily transform the space for a minimal cost (Holidays, Spring, Summer).  A bold piece of art can act as a compass for color and direction.

Helen Frankenthaler

For orginal art, Shannon and I tend to be most attracted to more modern, abstract pieces.  A few of our favorite artisits are: Jenny Prinn, Helen Frankenthaler, Jenny Andrews Anderson, Susie Betten Hausen and Staci Cross (pricing ranges from $600-$5000).  Their work is vibrant, energetic, bold and colorful.

Fool's Gold by Susie Betten Hausen

For photography, we love the work of Gray Malin and Christian Chaise for cool beach moments, and we love Slim Aarons for sexy, sceney shots that evoke life in a different time or place.  A different time or place we'd like to be... sunbathing on the Amalfi Coast anyone?

For cool up and coming artists, check out www.20x200.com  They have a wide variety of featured artists and depending on the size of the work, you can get prints from as low as $60.  

And lastly, don't forget about your children.  And not just for your mudroom, or your refridgerator door.  There is nothing cooler than a true original from the 2-3 year old abstract artist that lives with you...and the price can't be beat either.  Have it framed in a chic frame and add it to your collection for a well-rounded and meaningful addition to your evolving art collection.

Whether a flea market find, or a piece you've had your eye on for awhile...the most important step in starting your collection IS starting your collection.  It is a process, a discovery, an education.  When you begin your search, you will find pieces that touch you or are simply beautiful.  From there, your inclination and taste will evolve.  If you buy things (or frame things from your children) that you love, you will always find a place for them in your home.

Friday Buy Day

It's that day of the week again.  You know the day when your attitude is a little bit more positive, and your co-workers seem a little bit more friendly, and your husband seems a little bit more sexy, and your worries seem a little bit more distant.  Whether it's true or not doesn't really matter.  It's Friday. And Friday encourages us to believe in all of the above delusions. Friday is also the day we bring you awesome stuff to buy, all on sale.

First Up: Alice and Olivia Swiss Dot tie cover-up.  Gorgeous, right?  Spring is here... and Summer is around the corner and this is the perfect addition to any packing list, and the perfect accessory to any backyard party.  It is luxurious and sexy with a bohemian feel and a palatable price.  At right around $200 (from over $350) it is a chic piece that will last you years.  There is nothing trendy or fast-fashion about this elegant wrap.  Right now, all sizes available but I'm sure not for long!

It is painful to spend $500 on a pair of sexy high-heels, but more painful is buying a cheap pair that are horribly uncomfortable.  Honestly, what is less "sexy" than a girl hobbling down the street in obvious pain in her "sexy" heels?  Ugh, makes me uncomfortable just thinking about it.

These shoes by Schutz are beautiful and super inexpensive ($110..yes you read that correctly... and all sizes left except size 10). If I didn't own multiple pairs of Schutz heels, I would never be able to promote such an inexpensive pair of high heels...and not because I am a snob, because I don't want anyone to suffer the tragedy of poorly made, uncomfortable high-heels. These gorgeous heels are made in Spain with genuine leather and fine craftsmanship. The slight platform helps with the 4" heel height and the patterned trim adds edge.  The blood-orange color and the double ankle straps are an intoxicating combo.  Pair them with a pair of distressed denim and a simple tank, or add them to a black dress for a friend's Birthday dinner.  There is nothing sexier than a "sexy" heel that a woman can actually walk in.

About that black dress we were just talking about.  This is it.  It is the one that needs to be in every woman's closet.  Veronica Beard is a brand I became obsessed with when I owned a clothing store.  The tailoring is absolute perfection and the materials are superb.  Veronica Beard is classic with modern sensibilities and a penchant for accents of neon or florals.  Their blazers, in particular, are exceptional.  But I digress, back to the dress. It hugs your curves without being revealing and has contoured seaming for an extra flattering fit.  Whether adding a statement necklace and a sexy heel for a cocktail party, or pairing it with booties and a leather jacket for an event at your child's school, this is a must-have for every woman and is now only $178 (from over $500).

I like these.  A lot.  Lately, I've been much more into statement earrings, while keeping everything else pretty minimal.  If I am honest with myself, I have a few uniforms and tend to stick to variations of them.  Tees, leather jackets, skinny jeans, occasionally some fun jewelry in addition to the fine jewelry....and then sometimes, just to be different and daring, I add some more tees and some more leather jackets(:  

These earrings by Elizabeth Cole have a deco vibe that's really cool, and while they certainly make a statement they are not overwhelming in size.  I would pair them with a floaty maxi dress for a day wedding or baby shower, the same way I would wear them with a leather biker jacket and ripped jeans.  At $75 (from $160) they will make a minimal statement on your wallet while adding maximum edge to your wardrobe.

Lastly, for this week's Friday Buy Day, we bring you my FAVORITE pair of sneakers.  I'm sure many of you have seen these on me in pics (or real like) and considering my addiction to high-tops it means a lot for me to claim these as my #1.  They are Jimmy Choo and they are not cheap (but now on sale) BUT they are uber-comfortable and I get a gazillion complements on them.  It occurred to me awhile ago when I was purchasing my (insert ridiculous number) pair of sneakers that I actually have the whole shoe game figured out.  

Most women (including myself... until recently) spent hundreds and hundreds of dollars on fancy high-heels that we wear a handful of times (nights-out, weddings, parties) while we try to save money on the shoes we wear everyday.  This makes no sense!  Of course, there are the handful of inspirational women who wear high-heels, everyday, all-day...and to all of you...I tip my hat.  But for the rest of us, buying super expensive high heels we rarely wear, while buying cheap shoes we were often simply isn't the best practice.  After buying these sneakers (which were not on sale when I bought them), I can honestly say I have never gotten more value out of a pair of shoes.  So, to those of you who are inclined to wear high-tops as often as I am...I say don't feel bad about splurging on a pair of shoes you will wear almost everyday.  There is no shame in stepping up your casual game.

Hope you enjoyed this week's Friday Buy Day!  Reach out or forward along to anyone else who you think may need a little inspiration to start off their weekend right!

Must Stop Spot in SF: Upper Fillmore

Often times friends or relatives will call or email asking for great recommendations for a San Francisco visit. This city has so much to offer and so many unique neighborhoods that offering suggestions has never been a challenge.  And, our latest neighborhood obsession is an area called Upper Fillmore.  Since we've been in San Francisco, few neighborhoods have progressed the way Upper Fillmore has.  It has always been the go-to area for the dwellers of tony Pacific Heights, but until more recently many of the restaurants were lacklaster and the shopping was okay, but not great.  All that has changed.  

Every new tenant of this street (food, shop, salon) is a place we want to patronize.  One of the most recent newcomers is the Rag and Bone store.  Prior to Rag and Bone, menswear inspired clothing was always a little tough for us.  It either felt too old, or too masculine. Rag and Bone has changed that in a major way.  In fact, if we had to pick one brand (which would be VERY difficult...but just a hypothetical) it might have to be Rag and Bone.  Classic, yet edgy.  Menswear inspired, yet sexy.  And there stores are no different.  The store on upper Fillmore is clean, modern and full of stylish pieces for men and women.  We are so happy to welcome them to the neighborhood. 

Next Stop: Jane.  A must for breakfast or lunch.  Jane's menu is chalk-full of homemade breads and granolas, gluten-free options and excellent single-source coffee (pour-over of course).  It is "sceney" in a San Francisco sort of way.  Tech millionaires wearing backpacks and hoodies sitting next to perfectly coifed Pacific Heights philanthropists.  Jane was designed by renowned interior designed Ken Fulk and is the perfect place to refuel on a busy shopping day.

Other not to be missed shopping spots include Joie for breezy separates, Elizabeth Charles for an amazing selection of hard to find designers (many Australian), Curve for your Balmain and Erickson Beamon splurges, and Alice & Olivia for a festive party dress.  For dining, we love SPQR (reservations are strongly suggested), Out the Door and Delfina Pizza.

Whether you are visiting the city for the day or planning a trip to San Francisco on your way to Napa, we highly recommend spending a few hours on Upper Fillmore.  Between the shops and the restaurants, your belly will thank you...your bank account will not.

Edgy & Eclectic in North Beach

Shannon and I just finished a really fun project in North Beach. Our client lives in a flat with her husband and their two children. They have an extensive art collection along with a myriad of beloved textiles and found objects. They have adorned their space with exotic and interesting pieces but felt overwhelmed by a few of the rooms they used the most: their living/family room and their office/guest room.  

Before Living/Family Room

Lets start with the family room.  Having young children ourselves, Shannon and I know a thing or two about how your space gets invaded with castles and legos, trinkets and airplanes. In their family room,  a train table served as the coffee table and they had a series of cabinets/dressers holding everything from the television and DVD's to legos and dinner linens. Our first goal was to de-clutter the space and re-arrange the furniture. She owned a great orange sofa and had an old leather chair that she wanted to keep, so from a furniture standpoint we wanted to get rid of the assemblage of smaller furniture pieces that peppered the room and add a few functional yet cool pieces (all vintage) that allowed for adequate storage and would also create the illusion of more space.  Storage and space are two luxuries in San Francisco so we always keep these front of mind.  

We kept the sofa, the chair, the trunk and the ever so important record player....the rest had to go. We ditched the old rug in favor of this West Elm dhurrie in iron which makes a statement but does not compete with the kuba cloth drapery.  We found the brass tray top table on Chairish and sourced the hand-carved side tables from a local collective. The Harvey Probber credenza was a total score. These sell for thousands and thousands of dollars and we got this one for a fraction of that. It is a beautiful piece with ample storage for her children's DVDs and for her dinner linens. The combination of the woven doors with the black trim is a perfect anchor for the prints on the rug and the drapes. The vintage brass lamps were sitting in her basement and we replaced some of the fittings and added black lampshades from Restoration Hardware. The sofa was a little too short for the width of the room so by adding the side tables and the lamps, the sofa feels elongated and the whole wall space is visually used. We loved incorporating the cool items she already owned and adding a few others to round out the space. The room is chic enough for a candlelit cocktail party (records playing of course) and open enough for her children to build a Lego creation on the floor. Win win. 

Now....on to the Guest Room/Office.  Wow!

Guest Room/Office BEFORE

We don't need to say much about why this wasn't a functional room for this edgy young family.  The elaborate bed was way too big for the room and too busy.  There was another small assemblage of racks, cabinets and dressers to hold shoes, clothing and bedding and you could barely walk through the room to reach the closet.  Our client said the room was used a handful of times each year as a guest room, but primarily she wanted to use it as an office, and dressing room (IKEA hack to follow in the next blog...it's RAD).  First things first, remove all the clutter.  We were left with the cool Mexican oil cloth that she had purchased to cover the walls, and a small but very functional space if decorated properly.  

She wanted a futon to act as a sofa during the day, and roll out to a bed on the occasion she had overnight guests.  Although we are not huge futon fans, we purchased a black one so that it would blend in with the other pieces and not make too much of a statement.  We used her existing art to act as a "headboard" of sorts and frame the futon/sofa.  We scored an awesome Paul McCobb dresser on Craigslist that had ample storage for some personal items and a set of bedding.  The oversized glazed ceramic lamp was another basement treasure we had re-wired and we added a shade.  The moroccan rug is the perfect complement, not competitor, to the Mexican oil cloth.  Sometimes people are scared to mix patterns, but if they are of similar scale they can add a lot of dimension and interest in a room.  And clearly, this client embraces anything bold.  Boring she is NOT.  

After: Paul McCobb Dresser, Lamp from the Basement, Found Mirror, Moroccan Rug

Their family went away to Mexico for the week and Shannon and I got down to business.  She is thrilled and so are we.  It was such a fun project to work with someone so daring and edgy and it was awesome to find such major scores on awesome mid-century pieces from really influential designers.  Can't wait to be invited over for one of their infamous dinner parties...lights dimmed, records playing.

Friday Buy Day

It's funny, like most women I know, every time we go on a trip we are inclined to buy something new...even if the climate where we are headed is the exact same climate as the place we live. This week, Jack Ryan is headed to LA....and even though it is supposed to be 61 and raining (insert tear) which is the EXACT same weather as I am sure it will be in SF, our shopping inspiration is derived from weather that is 78 and sunny.  And so, for this week's Friday Buy Day we thought we'd bring you some cool pieces (on sale of course) that we want to take with us to LaLa Land. The power of positive thinking must not only be practiced in your mind, it must also be practiced in your packing. 

Here Goes:

First things first.  An oversized Panama Hat.  We are in LA afterall.  And whether my positive thinking works or not for the weather, a large hat is mandatory in the land of palm trees and movie stars.  We love the nubby texture and the cream color.  At under $40, it is a great deal and looks just as chic with denim and a button-up as it does with a swimsuit and a cover-up.

Speaking of a swimsuit, we love this one  It is sexy and classic and on sale.  You can never go wrong with a black bikini that has some interesting details.  I guess we'll be wearing this in the hot-tub if the weather decides to be uncooperative.

Almost as mandatory as a hat, is a pair of slightly distressed cut-offs.  One of our favorite looks right now is the Texas Tuxedo (denim on denim).  We love these with a denim button-up (in a lighter shade) a thicker leather belt and a cool pair of booties or sandals.

Oh, and for that night out at Chateau.  What to wear?  A romper of course.  This Zimmerman romper is sophisticated and sexy.  The button front allows you to adjust how much you would like to expose and the length of the shorts is spot on...not too short (trashy) and not too long (boring).  The lace panels on the sleeve are feminine and elegant.  We would pair these with deco drop earrings and a minimal strap heel.  Elegant, sexy, chic (and of course, it's on sale).

So, for any of you who are headed to LA soon, take our cues and get to shopping.  For all of those who are not, channel your positive thinking and plan a trip to a place that is 78, sunny and dappled with palm trees.

That Whole "Day to Night" Thing

So many times we read the magazine articles or listen to the salesperson say that a certain outfit can be worn from Day to Night. But let's be honest, unless you are going from a work conference to a work dinner, there are very few outfits you would wear during the day that you would WANT to wear for a night out. 

An easier way to think about this challenge is to think about pieces, instead of entire outfits.   Buy pieces that can be worn for day and can easily transition to evening with some creative styling.

I recently bought this Sea leopard blouse (PS I just found it on MAJOR sale at Barneys...link included)  It is slightly sheer with buttons down the front. I wore it on Saturday night in a fun seventies-vibe sort of way.  I unbuttoned one more button than "normal" to create a deep v-neckline, wore a pretty black lace bralette and tucked into wide leg denim with a black belt and chunky heels.

For a new client meeting, I wore it tucked into an A.L.C. knit skirt.  I added the strappy "gladiator" style heels to add a little edge. This blouse is a great example of a classic piece that can be worn in a more conservative way for work but also can be restyled in a sexy way for a night on the town. 

View fullsize

Shannon is wearing her favorite Rag and Bone skinny jeans with a peplum blouse, boucle jacket and heels. Her exact top is no longer available but the one below is a peplum blouse finished in a matte lambskin leather with lace detailing on the back and is deeply discounted.  It is a beautiful piece to wear with jeans but also can be worn with a pencil skirt and a statement necklace.   Or try it with a printed skinny leg trouser for a more conservative look.  Her heels are the classic "licorice" style from Kate Spade.  Perfect pointy toe and heel height, and finished in a fun but very versatile print.  

So, enough with all the talk about outfits that can take you from day to night.  Buy pieces that can transition from a more conservative look to a more daring look depending on how you style them.

Friday Buy Day

It's the most exciting day of the week again.  Friday.    Friday is the day when you excitedly look forward to your weekend dinner plans with friends or loves.  The day when you can almost taste the latte you will sip on your leisurely Saturday stroll.  And, not least of all...it is Friday Buy Day.  Which means we are AGAIN bringing you the best deals and sale items from the web and beyond.

No explanation is needed for why we love this Alexander Wang silk blend asymmetrical top  but we will indulge you nonetheless.  It is tres chic.  The slightly cut in shoulders, the side slit and the tucked seam are edgy without being over the top.  We love it styled just as is with black leather leggings (we suggested some great ones last week) and heels.  Add a textured/tweed cropped jacket and you will leave the house feeling Parisian rocker chic...

This cream cable knit sweater will do double and triple duty.  Guaranteed.  We love the color, the texture and the slightly scooped neckline (crew-necks can be hard for a lot of people, so scoop-necks are a nice alternative).  The vents on the side are great for allowing your silk cami or striped tee to poke through.  Pair it with skinny sweats and high-tops for a stylish yet casual weekend look (or travel look) or try it with a a denim button up underneath and moto inspired skinny jeans.  It was $118...it is now $59.95 and right now an additional 25% off the sale price.  Yes you read that correctly.  And you are welcome(:

Tom Ford Sunglasses 70% Off?  And no, they are no the style that everyone wore 5 years ago. Nude, slightly over-sized with a great shape for most faces.  And at $129 (from $425) with a 21 day return policy...even if you aren't sure if the shape would be a perfect fit for you it may well be worth a try.  We are heading into Spring and these are the perfect accessory to get you excited about the warmer weather headed your way!  

You know that dress that looks kinda blah on the hanger and then the salesperson encourages you to try it on and you fall in love?  This is it.  It is 100% silk and 100% versatile (I would recommend getting your true size or even sizing down) It has a tie waist and a timeless, yet modern print.  It is perfect with a leather jacket and booties for a client meeting or Happy Hour and it also translates to a more conservative affair like a school luncheon or play.  Seasonally, it is very transitional and something that will never look "dated". For under $200, it is an easy and stylish piece that you will likely get to wear often.

Lastly, we bring you diamonds.  There is something so feminine and stylish about the combination of rose gold, white topaz and diamonds. For the price, ($765 from $1500) these beautiful topaz earrings with 36 pave diamonds surrounding the center stone are a fabulous deal on a timeless piece of jewelry.  Neither Shannon nor I regularly buy ourselves fine jewelry; however, the few times we have it has actually brought us a weird sense pride.  It feels good to treat yourself to something special every now and again.  Hope you have enjoyed our picks this week.  Feel free to forward this along to anyone else you think may need a little retail pick me up!  

Black and Blue

We're not exactly sure who determined that pairing navy and black were a "don't", but we strongly disagree.  

Above is a photo of a chic playroom by Owens and Davis using a sophisticated color palette.  The navy sofa is the perfect pairing with the whimsical black wallpaper.  The sheepskin and the acrylic table layered on the bare, dark floor provides a light and airy antidote to the dark colors so that the room doesn't feel too dark or serious. The sputnik light with the white bulbs talks to the white in the wallpaper and graphic pillows.  Modern, textured, layered.   We have always loved navy and black (with a touch of white and brass)... and this room is the perfect illustration of that combo done right.

Hello Sexy Space.  Blue Black and Brass are at it again.  The black bookshelves paired with the brass sconces and the navy graphic rug make us want to curl up with a glass of red and stay awhile.

Strangely whether it is an outfit or a living room, the combination of black, blue and brass seem to be unstoppable.  In this living room by Studio McGee the black walls and the navy striped rug make all the impact.  Add brass hardware on the draperies, bookshelves and coffee table and the punch of fuschia for a sophisticated yet timeless vignette.

Whether for an outfit or a living room, you can't go wrong pairing navy, black, brass (or gold), and a pop of white.  Few combinations are as elegant and timeless while also being modern and bold.  So, if you had hesitations before....let them leave you now.  Navy Black and Brass are here to stay.

Almost as Nerve-Racking as Hiring your First Babysitter

When you buy a car, you know what you are going to get for the price.  Want the supercharged engine and the leather seats with the sport package? For the right price, you can have exactly what you want, exactly as you want it, for an amount that is determined before you drive it off the lot.

Designers are different.  I'm sure many people would love to have someone come help them select the proper floor plan, pick the right combination of furniture and fabrics, shop for the perfect accessories and have it all make sense with furnishings they already have in their home.  But the truth is, there are a lot of unknowns.  Unknowns are regularly a source of fear, apprehension and anxiety.  And with Interior Design it is no different. This is why so many potential clients have been in their home for years or wanted change for years, but were never able to initiate the process of hiring a designer. 

Your home is your sanctuary.  And whether it is already stylish or in desperate need of substantial work, it is the place where you feel safe.  It is the place where you share meals with your family, enjoy your favorite shows and invite friends over to celebrate special occasions .  It is the place where you cuddle your pets on the sofa and build legos on the living room floor.  And when a person decides they want to hire a designer, it is often an unsettling feeling.  How much is this going to cost?  Are they going to do a good job?  Are they going to merge my vision with their expertise to create a space that my family and I love? Are we all going to like each other at the end, or is this a terrible idea? 

Going into it, you can look at the designer's past projects and get a sense of their work.  You can meet with them and ask them questions about how they operate and what they can offer.  And although these are necessary and important steps, and often indicators of a potentially sound partnership, they are not guarantees of one.  

Although we're not sure what the "perfect" formula for a fantastic working relationship is, we do have some ideas that certainly seem to work for us. Our favorite projects are collaborative efforts built with trust, communication, accessibility and kindness.  Kindness being the unspoken, but ever so valuable component of any good relationship...working or otherwise. 

The bottom line is this whole process works a lot better if you like and trust one another.  You are going to be spending a lot of time with one another, exchanging emails and ideas, talking budget and deadlines and likely relaying some unfortunate news at times.  Mistakes happen (whether your fault or not), items are out of stock, items are not in budget or not on time.  So, when you are interviewing a designer, we would recommend trusting your instincts in addition to the regular due diligence.  Much like hiring your first babysitter, often times the gut feeling you get from a person is a far more reliable compass than their resume. 

Friday Buy Day

It's Friday Buy Day.  And every Friday we'll be bringing you the best stuff to buy for yourself or your home.  And it will all be on sale or an incredible deal.  You need to buy it on Friday because it might not be there on Saturday...

First up: an awesome red campaign dresser.  At $350 this piece is a light on the wallet while heavy on impact.  We would style it in a children's bedroom with pale blue, white and punches of black.  Imagine a blue and white chinoiserie lamp with a black shade sitting on it's perch.  Perfection.

Next Up: Paige coated skinny jeans in black (currently all sizes in stock, but not for long).  The look of leather at a tenth of the price (under $120).  Pair them with a cream cashmere sweater or a denim shirt and sneakers during the day.  Add a floaty silk blouse and strappy heals for evening.  Timeless.  Sexy.  A closet staple.

Third Item: You know those sexy strappy heels we just mentioned?  Here they are.  It's Valentine's weekend after all, and we are in LOVE.  They are more than half-off and currently all sizes in stock except 39!

Travel in style with this chic weekender.  A little bit boho...a lot a bit stylish, this tote is the perfect size for a carry-on bag or a make-shift diaper bag. We love the textured fabric and the edgy color combination of ivory and black with a punch of bright blue. For under $100, this bag is sure to sell out soon.

Lastly, this crochet bell sleeve dress makes us want to go on a Vacation NOW.  Sun-kissed gams and some beachy waves in your hair.  A nude lip and brightly painted toes.  This dress is effortless and epitomizes boho chic style.

Hope you enjoyed our picks for Friday Buy Day.  This Valentine's Weekend love yourself by treating yourself to some special new goodies that won't break the bank.  You're worth it.

A Design Unicorn

We posted a few days ago about making a stylish space for little people, and noticed that we have used an Oeuf product in every nursery we have designed to date.  We didn't do it on purpose, in fact...we didn't even realize we had done it until we took inventory of the handful of completed nursery projects.  

We thought about why we had done that.  With so many different tastes and styles there is rarely a product that appeals to virtually everyone....can you imagine using the same brand of table in every dining room, or the same brand of bedding for every bedroom?  What became clear is that we were able to use Oeuf in every nursery because their product line is clean, stylish, and timeless, and those are principles that most people (regardless of whether traditional or modern, bohemian or minimalist) want to embrace.  To find a product that can be used in so many different types of spaces, and appeal to so many different aesthetics is rare.  Very rare.  

Oeuf contacted us after the post went live and let us know that they would be featuring our work on their Social Media outlets (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & Pinterest).  Thank you Oeuf for your support and thank you for making a premium product that appeals to virtually everyone.  Ladies and gentleman, a Unicorn has entered the building.

Meet Your New Best Friends: Monrow & Alexander

Jeans.  Tee.  Jacket.  Repeat.

Isn't exactly the sexy inspiration you had in mind?  Maybe doesn't sound sexy or inspiring but that is the outfit that most of us DO wear and WILL wear, so we better get it right. 

Jeans are tough.  There are just too many different brands, styles and body types to ever successfully suggest the perfect pair for all (or at least most) women.  So, I'll move on to tees...

Tees are different. A great tee is fairly universal and there are two categories tees fall into: everyday & not.  Everyday is self-explanatory.  Not means any tee that might require a different bra or any tee that is sexy enough to wear to dinner or on a date.

The best everyday tee is made by Monrow.  An all time favorite style is the tissue v-neck tee.  It is the perfect weight with a subtle sheerness and a v-neck that is generous without being revealing. The length is long.  Not too long, but long enough to layer and long enough to bend down.  There is nothing worse than buying a tee that you think fits, washing it and having it shrink to a length appropriate for a 13 year-old cheerleader.  Ugh...makes me mad thinking about it.  Spare yourself the endless poor fits, and the wasted money.  Buy 3 colors of Monrow tissue v neck tees in black, white and grey and call it a day.  Everyday.  

The best "not" everyday tee is T by Alexander Wang.  My personal favorite is the classic racer-back jersey tank in black.  Unstoppable.  It is generous in the armholes and across the back to allow for a sexy slouch.  The v is deep but has a subtle curve to it and the length (again) is on the longer side allowing you to pair it with your favorite skinny jeans without concern of a muffin-top tragedy.  It is simple and chic and looks great with a lacy racer-back bra peeking through on the sides.  It is a go-to when the "I have nothing in my closet" to wear hits.  Just add jeans, a leather jacket,  and strappy heels.  Sometimes sexy inspiration comes in the most simple form.

We are so happy to introduce you to Monrow & Alexander and we hope you will have a meaningful and lasting relationship for years to come!  

Big Style for Little People

We didn't really develop guidelines for decorating little people rooms until we had a few of them ourselves.  So, now that their is a litter of six children between our families we have developed helpful tips that have allowed us to decorate baby nurseries and older children's rooms with style and practicality in mind. Teenagers are another story, so we will save them for another story!  

Here are a few of our stylish secrets:

Art.  A mix of modern and other, but the modern component is key.  And we're not talking expensive modern art.  We regularly frame children's artwork in chic frames to display the masterpiece that it is.  Mix modern with something a little more "sweet" for a combination that feels personal and eclectic.  The piece above is from One Kings Lane and was reframed to give it a little more soul.  The dresser is rustic and industrial and is the perfect antidote to the bold and modern painting.

Vintage.  It is so easy to get seduced by the amazing styling of catalogs that arrive on your doorstep when styling a baby room or child's room.  The abundant light, the fluffy bedding and the layered floor coverings... it looks so perfect it can make you want to order the whole page!!   But as much as we love to order new and fresh pieces, we never design a room without a piece or two (if not more) that is old. Something vintage creates soul in a bedroom that otherwise might feel too staged.  In the bedroom below, the dresser is vintage Paul McCobb and was found at local collective, the brass and wood director chairs were also found treasures.  We recovered them in a more modern fabric to balance their age. The ceramic lamp is from the 1960's and was found on Chairish. 

Palette.  The same way it is easy to get seduced by catalogs, it is also easy to get carried away with color. And this is coming from people who love color.  We try to ground the bright blues with browns or charcoals, and temper the hot pinks with taupes and creams.  In the nursery below, the owl wallpaper on the ceiling is a sweet addition to the space without feeling "cutesy".  The modern grey crib from Ouef is dressed in browns and creams and the walls and window treatment remain neutral.  This is a space that will grow with the lucky little boy who lives there now.

Hope you enjoyed our tips on styling your little one's room.  Follow us @jackryandesign on Instagram for more pics and tips!

What to Wear Now...and Later

Shannon and I are as passionate about fashion as we are about interior design and we both love to shop. But when we shop, we try and exercise some restraint knowing that clothes should typically fall into one of two categories: great staple/basic you will wear all the time OR obsessed and might die if it's not in your closet.  The best (and possibly 3rd) category is:  it's something you will wear all the time and you think you might die if it's not in your closet tomorrow...loosely translated for us: every IRO jacket ever made. 

But seriously....when we think about a great basic or staple, we think about the perfect pair of jeans, cashmere sweaters, and tees.  Lots of tees.  We think about sneakers and boots, and sandals in the Summer.  We think about the Mommy Uniform.  And when we think about an item that MUST be in our closet to elevate the everyday, we think about strappy sexy heels, lace tops, embellished jackets and deco jewelry...and don't forget to throw in a few rompers.

It's a funny time of year for fashion.  People are ready for Spring, but the weather reflects a different state of mind.  Shannon and I have picked a few items that we love, and will transition from today through Spring & Summer.  Most won't break the bank and can be styled a few different ways depending on season, or occasion.   A couple are more of an investment, but an investment that will pay you dividends if you consider how often you will wear it!  

The following are mine:

I love this Theory fringe tank .  I think it is the perfect combination of edgy and elegant.  Pair it with leather leggings and ankle strap heels for an evening out, or wear it with white jeans and studded sandals in the Summer for casual cool.  It is on sale and will be worn all the time.  Sexy enough for an evening out, yet restrained enough for a client meeting under a blazer with distressed jeans and leopard heels.

Searching the sale section on ShopBop I also came across this workhorse of a dress.  It is sexy, stylish and has unlimited options....and did I mention it is under $130?  The rouching is extremely flattering and the heather grey is a perfect base for layering.  Pair this with a moto leather jacket and wedge booties ( I own these Isabel Marant booties and they are majorly on sale now) for an evening out, or slip on some casual sandals and a fun necklace for Sunday brunch.  The dress is comfortable, stylish and begs to be layered. 

The last item that will make it into my rotation is a new pair of Anine Bing sunglasses.  Lately, I've been noticing so many sunglasses with exaggerated logos, colors, shapes or hardware.  I love all different types of shades, but have been on the hunt for a clean, black, modern pair of sunglasses that defy trend.  The "New York" sunglasses are the perfect size, with a solid dark lens, no fussiness or logo on the sides and will be at my doorstep in the next few days (:  

These are Shannon's:

Stella McCartney's Falabella is her new go-to bag.  It is large enough to carry tear sheets, binders and proposals during the day, and folded over is a great shoulder bag for evening.  It is made of eco-friendly and durable faux-leather and the chain detailing is edgy without being loud.

The next mandatory item in her closet is her new pair of Rag and Bone Dre BF Slim jeans.  Boyfriend jeans can look sloppy and unpolished.  These are neither.  The Dre BF Slim jeans are tailored with the perfect amount of distressing and a great wash.  Because they are equal parts "boyfriend" and "slim, you can get away with pairing them with your favorite flats, a tee and a cardigan and not risk looking like a slouch.  Her favorite way to wear the BF Slim is with stilettos, a simple top and a fitted jacket.  Tailored boyfriend jeans paired with sexy heels shows confidence and cool...and there is nothing sexier than that combination.

Shannon's last pick is a pair of Kurt Geiger studded heels.  Who doesn't love the perfect "going out" heel.  You won't have to starve for weeks to purchase these, and they will make everything better.  Everything.  They will make your simple black dress stand out.  They will make your Dre Slim boyfriend jeans acceptable to wear for a night on the town.  The pinhead studs are just the right amount of rocker cool, while not competing with your outfit.  They would look just as sexy on a 60 year old as a 30 year old and the cut-outs are perfection.

Hope you enjoyed our style tips!  Feel free to email us or reach out on Instagram @jackryandesign for any more details or styling advice! 

More Than a Rental

San Francisco is one of the most expensive places to live in the world. This can make real estate particularly challenging. At Jack Ryan Design we love a good challenge, and although we were not knocking down any walls or remodeling any bathrooms in this San Francisco rental we wanted to create a space that felt custom and personal to the young family who lives there. There are a few meaningful ways to make a rental feel like a home while being conscientious about budget and conscientious about making choices that you can take with you if you decide to move in the future.  Our top three ways to make a rental feel custom are: paint, light fixtures, and rugs. 

My husband and I have always rented, yet we've managed to live in style because of the aforementioned items. People talk about the transformative nature of paint all the time, and we couldn’t agree more…but in a rental it is important to be mindful of budget because this is one item you can’t take with you if you decide to move. My guiding principle is to paint only the rooms where you crave high impact (we painted the dining room Benjamin Moore black) or where the wall color is absolutely horrible (for me, that is anything that resembles peanut butter or anything that is peach). Set a budget for paint, prioritize which rooms you feel like you NEED to paint, and skip the others. 

The second most important component in making a rental feel custom and personal is lighting. We can't stress this enough. You likely will always have a dining room (or dining area), an entry, and a bedroom…so don’t worry about buying something wondering if you will use it later when/if you move in the future. If you love it, you will use it.  Take down the cheap Home Depot fixtures that the apartment came with and install your own. In the dining room, we replaced the ugly dining room fixture with an amazing brass Sputnik pendant  and the Murano glass lamps are from a nearby collective called Past Perfect.  We added black shades  and a vintage console that we also got from Past Perfect.  A sexy piece of art is always a welcome addition, and can serve as a good guide for color inspiration. Between the black walls, the beautiful glass lamps, and the dramatic light fixture there isn't a thing about his room that feels "rental".

The final element that makes a rental feel more personal and stylish are floor coverings. We love rugs at Jack Ryan and although there is a growing trend for bare floors these days, unless you have beautiful stones, wood, or marble to show off.... then you are better off laying down some rugs.  The graphic ivory and black rug was an easy choice with the teak mid-century table and the black walls.  It adds texture and print and really ties the room together.

Hope you enjoyed our tips on how to make a rental feel personal and stylish! Sign up to our Newsletter for more inspiration from this project and others….

A Date with the Dryer

You know that girl that wakes up with her hair in a damp bun from a bath the night before, lets it out...and has beautiful, bouncy hair all day?  I don't either.

 It's because she doesn't exist. Well, I take that back. There are two people I have met in my 36 years on this earth who wrap their hair in a bun for it to air-dry...and the result gives Victoria Secret models and Jared Leto some stiff competition. Nicole and Ali you know who you are. 

The rest of us have to blow dry our hair. Why do we hate it so much when it makes us look so much better?  We wax, we laser, we get Botox and lash extensions..hair extensions and peels...yet we can't stand the tedious reality of blow drying our hair every other day. 

Imagine a girl in a simple black tee and jeans. Her hair is smooth with a gentle bend at the ends. She is wearing sunglasses and sandals walking down the street. Now, imagine a girl in stilettos and a beautiful silk dress.  She is wearing the finest jewelry but her hair is stringy and unkept. Who do you consider more chic?  We all know the answer. 

Us moms in particular are guilty of blaming our unkept manes on the little ones running the show, but if we know what is best for us...it is not ordering the kale salad, nor is it applying the extra coat of lip gloss...it is blow drying our hair.  Although tedious and cumbersome, fifteen minutes with a round brush will give your mane and your confidence an upgrade.  So, stop reading this blog and checking your email. Get yourself to the bathroom for a date with your dryer. 

Mixing Metals

To mix or not to mix, that is the question.

I’ve always loved the look of mixed metals.  I love mixing metals when I am wearing jewelry, and I love mixing metals when designing a room.  The combination of a brass light fixture with stainless appliances in a kitchen gets me every time.  A lot of people are nervous about mixing metals but we follow some simple guidelines that have helped us master this design concept and it results in rooms that feel bold, eclectic and unfussy.

The first guideline we follow is to limit the amount of rooms where you mix your metals.  Using the same finish for your hardware, light fixtures and accents feels streamlined and clean.  The contrast between rooms that are consistent in metal choice and the ones that mix metals creates an edgy vibe, without it feeling haphazard.

The second guideline we follow is to use both multiple times.  In our den remodel, we used silver hardware for the draperies, a silver floor lamp and silver accents in the bookshelf while the mirror is accented with brass, the table has both brass and silver, and the lamp is brass.  By using each finish multiple times in the room, the mix feels intentional instead of feeling like a mistake.  We also mixed metals when we chose alternating silver and gold tones for the bookshelves.  The grays/silvers have a soothing effect on the brightness of the gold.

The last guideline is: don’t overthink it!  Mixing metals is a bold choice…it is much easier to stick with the same finish throughout.  So, if you are bold enough to give it a shot then don’t over-analyze each piece or placement too much (are the 2 brass pieces too close together? Should a silver piece be in between?)  Have fun with making the room your own unique, edgy, eclectic space.

Mommy Uniform

It's not hard to get stuck in a rut of workout pants and an ill-fitting sweatshirt when you are running around after your little ones all day. After I had my children I would find myself putting on workout clothes convinced that if I wore them, I might actually make it to the gym. Instead, I rarely made it to the gym but instead managed to look like a sloppy teenager all day. Lose lose.  

And so, it occurred to me having worked in fashion most of my life that I had to come up with a uniform of sorts: a few outfits that made me look hip and put-together but also outfits that were versatile and comfortable. The mommy uniform I wear most often is a favorite pair of skinny jeans, a cashmere sweater, and high-tops. Yes, high-tops. Being in our mid/late thirties, Shannon and I are often pressed by women about how they don't feel comfortable in high-tops because they feel the style is too "young". My response is that you should never wear something that does not make you feel comfortable, but also that there are a huge variety of sneakers that are stylish and range the spectrum from preppy/conservative to edgy/funky....and I am firm believer that there is a hip sneaker for us all! I also love to pair them with leather pants and a blazer, or cut-off shorts and a striped tee in the summer!  

Here are a few of our favorites!

Jimmy Choo Calf Hair Sneaker (as worn by Cate)

Golden Goose sneakers  (similar to the pair worn by Shannon)

Maximizing Minimal Space

The truth is...with small spaces, you should use ALL of it.  The mistake many people make is trying to buy "small" furniture to fit a "small" space.  The result is often a small space that feels too mini to accommodate actual humans.  

The best way to maximize a minimal space is to use furniture that uses all the space available.  In this small patio, we found furnishings on jossandmain.com .  The setee extends to nearly the entire width of the patio, and the two chairs allow enough space to pass through.. but not much more.  The result is a space the owners can actually use.  

We also don't believe in over-styling or complicating small spaces.  This patio has a setee, a table and two chairs.  The accessories include two lanterns to give off warmth and light, a couple of pillows and hopefully a delicious drink in your hand. Cheers!