Vintage Chair Facelift

It’s not easy being green. Or is it? When hunting for new furniture for my apartment – the first place I’ll go is thrift and antique stores to see what I can salvage and update for my abode. Why run to Target or Ikea if there’s tons of gorgeous furniture already out there?!

I came across a set of these vintage chairs while going on a fabric run. A mega steal – the pieces were discounted – costing me only $9 each! After a thorough inspection and sniff test I decided they were a deal not to be passed up. Besides – I had to replace the rickety rocking chair I had in my living room. Or at least, that’s what I convinced myself of! All the chairs would need is a good cleaning, airing, and brightening up. Using some leftover Yolo paint, David and I taped off the wood and gave it a fresh coat.

The result is a fusion of old world craftsmanship with a modern whitewash finish. They’ve become an instant centerpiece in our place and will see many years of heartfelt Scrabbling, reading and pet napping. And people say it’s not easy being green.

Styling: Mustard Seed Miracles

So it seems pretty obvious that I have developed a recent obsession with the color yellow. Within the past 2 months I have purchased, made, featured, or photographed at least 20 different things in the hue’s range.

With this in mind, it comes as no surprise that in this “Styling” the main attraction is a warm fuzzy mustard cardigan. This cozy sweater was my favorite find of autumn – discovered while doing a fabric run at a local thrift shop – the saturated color and high quality tailoring forced me to pop it in my cart. Combined with the ever-modern stripes of an old school Old Navy dress, grey leggings, sequined gold peter pan collar necklace, and black vintage boots, this is one of those ensembles I can see myself wearing for years to come!

Inspiration: Duo Tone Hair

Maybe it’s the unseasonably warm Chicago weather – but I feel like I’m in need of some spring reinvention prematurely!

Back in late December I went to an Aveda salon to get asymmetrical ‘melted’ highlights and am loving the look. The plan is to eventually start playing with the blonde/caramel pieces by adding some manic panic electric hues.

And since hair is on my brain I wanted to share this adorable look that I happened upon on Pinterest. I love the stark contrasts of the two shades and may venture down this path at some point. For now I’ll rock my current do but will keep this bi-polar one in mind for the future.

Inspiration: Vintage Ochre Skirt

I heart things like a maniac on Etsy and am also now a super Pinterest user. Between the two I collect image upon image of beautiful fashions, unique clothing, and inspiring outfits. But when I found this adorable corduroy skirt on Astral Boutique’s Etsy something made me stop. Maybe it’s the super cute over-sized bow in the model’s hair. Or perhaps it’s the breezy white blouse combined with the bold color of the skirt. Or maybe it’s a combination of all of the above! No matter the reason – I simply had to share this photo as it instantly brought a smile to my face.

New Designs: Stormy Weather Skirt

Dropping temperatures don’t have to equal over-bundling and under-styling. Fight the chill by throwing on a pair of leggings, boots, long sleeve fitted top and a skirt for instant comfort and glamor.

And if you’re looking for the perfect piece, my new  “Stormy Weather” design fits the bill! Boasting ruffled fabric at the waist and a bubbled lower hem, it creates a slightly a-line shape that’s not just cozy, but also flattering. My favorite detail? The reverse applique rain drops! Filled with vintage lace, the contrast between the fabrics’ textures, plus, the whimsical cutout, make it an eye-catching detail that won’t go ignored.

Sleepless in Seattle: Lil’ Vacation

Katy in her rad outfit.

The title of this post is not meant to be entirely tongue n cheek.

My closest friends and I embarked on a reunion this past week with Seattle as our stomping grounds. We had the joy and privilege to stay on a super rustic house boat that left me rockin’ till today – literally. I find myself with a mean case of vertigo and dark undereye circles…surely signs that I had a great trip!

Seattle took my breath away. The cozy neighborhoods, combined with the ever-flowing supplies of locally roasted coffee, gave me a fuzzy buzz worth gushing over. The slanted streets were filled with plaid-adorned citizenry, vintage boutiques, thrift shops, organic grocers, vegetarian restaurants and more!

Here’s a sneak peak at my favorite finds and the gals behind the times on my Flickr!