noteworthy notebooks by ribbon squirrel

With all the tablets and gadgets we tote around today, I can barely recall the last time I actually wrote something - as in, with a paper and pencil. This take on the classic composition by etsy poster + print shop ribbon squirrel reminds us that a great notebook doesn't always have to plug in --- or cost a thousand dollars. I'm loving the look of the color-blocked geo design against the black + white print, and (of course) the fact that it's handmade. Choose white or a combination of complimentary colored pages, perfect for whatever you want to write... no outlet necessary.

[all photos in layouts chosen from ribbon squirrel's etsy shop]

a lovely little thing: leather sunglass case

Leave it to Rebecca Minkoff to come up with a super chic and very smart take on your everyday sunglass case.  Her version is made from a soft, supple leather and features a practical zip closure with a very on-trend tassel detail. Perfect replacement for the big, bulky (and probably broken) case that came with your shades --- definitely an upgrade!

Personally I think everything is better in black leather (shown below), but it also comes in an adorable blush pink hue with black detailing. Both shades feature the indigo blue + black polka dot lining as well as a cute retro graphic on the front.  What's not to love?

[photos via]

love this line: this ilk

As the self-proclaimed "original lace jewelry shop," this ilk is a globally sold line of hand-cut, -dyed + stiffened lace accessories. It includes everything from everyday earrings to something resembling a complete body harness --- and yet somehow each piece is as dainty as it is daring.  I have chosen to feature a few styles below from this ilk's etsy page, but you would definitely be missing out if you didn't take a look at the rest of her work. Whether you're into an understated lace neck piece or a look-at-me halter, you'll for sure find one you love --- or, as in my case, more like a dozen... enjoy!

[each individual photo in layout was chosen from this ilk's etsy page]

friday's one-of-a-kind find: porcupine quill necklaces

By now I've made clear my love of accessories that feature unique designs and awesomely unexpected raw materials, from stringray cuffs to cow bone bolos + everything in between. Even so, I was drawn to the sharp edges and unique feel of these Raw Earth Studio necklaces way before I learned that the colorful "spikes" were actually porcupine quills. 

So. cool.

The first design below (featuring the same neon green/gray color combo I featured yesterday) is my absolute favorite, but they are all pretty amazing. Take a look:

[all photos via Raw Earth Studio's etsy page]

Jenn from Raw Earth Studio is the creative mastermind behind these handcrafted designs. She dyes each quill with a bright hue (or two) + leaves the rest alone, ending up with a color combo that's perfectly balanced against the dark chocolate brown that accentuates each point. The quills are then secured with a reclaimed leather band and a chain is added, flawlessly transforming natural + recycled elements into a seriously awesome statement accessory.

They're a lovely way to add your own twist to one of this season's most coveted trend - bright colors - without breaking the bank ($36/each!). Just be careful - these babies are pretty fierce, in more ways than one.

Have a lovely weekend! xo

feels like spring: pieces with bright stripes of color

Apologies for being a bit MIA lately - the allure of the sand + sun was much more intense than that of my laptop, and way too hard to resist. But (sadly!) I am back + ready to share a bunch of new favorites inspired by my break.

Coming back from a wonderful, warm vacation is always hard - facing an overflowing inbox, or watching your tan fade and any newly-acquired zen fly right out of the super-jammed subway window the first morning back.  Luckily, the weather here in NYC feels more like spring than winter, and I am still basking in the after glow of my week off. Here are some lovely little pieces that fit my still-sunny mood with a bright stripe of color . . . enjoy!

[dress] [bikini] [wedge]

 

clockwise from top left: [one] [two] [three] [four]






funky + functional: striped ipad stand

I'm thinking about getting an ipad - and of course, just as excited about all the adorable accessories that dress it up as I am about the ipad itself. But I am trying to be sensible + think about function as well as aesthetics, which is why I instantly loved this resin stand/docking station that's just as cool as it is useful. It holds any model of ipad and, more importantly, would look super cute on your desk --- even if it's empty. 

Check it out:

[ipad stand]

With the tablet or on it's own, this custom-made, striped stand is totally irresistible. 

Now I just need the ipad...

Enjoy! xo

sending you some sunshine: bold beachwear

With temp in new york city steadily dropping, I am really loving the warm weather down here in Florida. Even though my vacation will only last another six days, this little bit of sunshine has me obsessing over the new beachwear this season - even if (after I arrive home next Wednesday) I won't be able to wear it again for at least another few months.  

Personally I love bathing suits that are cute + comfy without being too bold, and absolutely adore the way coral looks against a nice tan. My dream beachwear is this combo of soft, neutral tones that are balanced by thick, bold patterns:

[dress + bikini]

And even though it's a bit out of my price range, I just couldn't help myself --- this beach towel is simply irresistible. With the cheeky zebra-hide feel + luxurious leather buckles, it's almost too cute to get wet:

[towel]

I know that the next few days will fly by and soon enough I will be back in the city, decked out in knits + boots. But until then, I must warn you that my posts may be a bit sunnier than usual. 

So whatever the weather where you are, I hope you enjoy - I know I am! xo