Archives for October 2016

Rachel Craven Fall + Winter 2016

24 October, 2016

I probably sound like a broken record at this point, but I’m a lover of silhouettes that have no reason to change, something made for living in. Loose elemental shapes, versatile materials, interesting layers–these are the things that feel polished and comfortable to me. There’s no fuss about it. So it’s no surprise the latest collection from my long-time favorite Rachel Craven ranks high. I love the longer shirt and jacket offerings alongside those always incredible caftans, and the comfiest looking pants! The mix of subdued colors with the rich, deep black and blue is lovely and allows for so many possibilities. I know what works for me and I’ll gladly take one of each, please.

images from Rachel Craven Textiles | photography by Katrina Dickson

Living + Decor

Four Favorite Vases

20 October, 2016

Areaware Radial Vessels | Good Thing Gather Vase | B Zippy Tall Saucer Vase | Brass Cone Vase

I guess I started a “four favorites” series without planning to. This seems like something I can actually keep up with!

Style

Bar Jewellery

18 October, 2016

all images courtesy of Bar Jewellery | photography by Thu Thuy Pham featuring Grace Acladna

My fascination with distinct and elegant shapes that can be worn shows no sign of stopping, which is why I was thrilled when Sophie Mckay reached out about her gorgeous line Bar Jewellery. Immediately I was taken with the pared down combination of delicate twists and weighty, geometric designs. Collection 1 perfectly balances soft curves and angular lines to become a powerhouse of refined statement pieces.

The name Bar comes from the idea of being stripped back to basics, akin to the minimal and unapologetic bar form that metal takes before being made into jewellery.

The first collection by Bar Jewellery is an eclectic mix of abstract, sculptural pieces and redesigned classics, heavily inspired by the sculpture of mid century modernist masters such as Constantin Brancusi and Jean Arp. –Bar Jewellery

Sophie began creating pieces in her home with the goal of inspiring positivity and responsibility, encouraging others to see beyond current trends. Bar is handmade and sustainably sourced, cast, and finished in the London, and will soon expand to include vintage pieces to further encourage others to make conscious purchases.

My hope for the accessories I choose is that in their form they possess a quiet sort of appeal, one that inspires confidence and excitement each time they are worn. I love the idea of turning a basic form into something unique, something that stays with you year after year. Bar Jewellery and its architectural and sculptural details–at once both modern and timeless–are perfect for wearing with simplicity and ease. To me, these are the hallmarks of a beautiful, thoughtful piece.

I’m absolutely in love with the small Wave ring, Arco bracelet, large Calla necklace, and Solis earrings. Be sure to check out the entire dreamy lookbook and the shop!

Uncategorized

A Gentle Reminder

12 October, 2016

A short but honest and sweet talk with a woman I’ve been going to barre and spin class with for years and re-reading my favorite book series this week (also this article) encouraged me to reflect on the burdensome feelings that have slowly gotten the better of me. The best way I know how is to write. When you’ve been away for so long, especially from writing, it seems the most sensible thing to do is get right to it.

Anxiety and depression have been with me most of my life and I try to be open about that here, but there are times I’m absolutely sure it’s not an appropriate thing to talk about on a blog. The alternative–fashion, art, interior design, anything else–seems flawed if I’m giving an impression of assured contentment. I post about the bright spots on Instagram but not about the days it’s hard to get out of bed, the tears and isolation. I don’t feel like myself, or maybe not the self I hope to be.

I’ve been avoiding my long to-do list, preferring instead to indulge in negativity and the short-lived satisfaction that comes from procrastination. In the process I’ve completely neglected a space that was once an outlet for creativity and fun. My problem has always been overthinking–worrying that I have nothing to say, that no one will be interested, that I’m just reposting and recycling content, that I’m not as compelling as others. I get stuck believing my everyday life isn’t glamorous enough to blog about and not wanting to confront the unpleasant parts of life. It stops me in my tracks and drags those crippling thoughts of uncertainty to the surface. Bottom line: I’ve been making excuses and feeling sorry for myself. Every tiny decision is difficult so I don’t make any, letting that tense feeling I get when a lack of momentum and busyness somehow happen at the same time takes over. Planning posts, not following through, and later beating myself up about it–it’s a pattern that serves no purpose and one that I’m moving on from. I have a couple things scheduled for the next week or so, and that’s plenty. It’s easy to think you have to keep up, be perfect, but I can choose to be gentler with myself. I want to spend the remaining two and a half months of the year (!!!) exploring and pushing the boundaries of my creative side. This is my favorite season and I want to experience it well, putting my most earnest self forward.

I give myself a pep talk like this every few months and that’s okay. We all need these reminders sometimes.