Having a Moment With...Women Who Have a Way

woman with a way

My best bud, Myriam and I are known for developing an entire back story around an intriguingly stylish stranger. We might give her a nick name, describe her idiosyncrasies, and run down a list of things she likes to do. We just get a kick out of  letting our imagination run away with us. That's how we came up with the idea of the woman with "a way" [wink]. It's a term we use to describe an older woman who has a heightened sense of style that is so  unique to her, there are no words to really capture it other than to say she has "a way" [wink]. I've been really inspired by "her" jen ne sais quoi  lately. See how I define it below.

If you were having trouble envisioning a woman with "a way" [wink], Linda Rodin completely embodies it --love her style! While this type of woman is typically older, you too can get the same look no matter how old you are. Be sure to decorate with unexpected, quirky, opulent touches like poodle lamps, swan tapware, and shells or other kitchy collection. Or try luxuriating at home with a turban, sunglasses, oversized jewels on your fingers, and bright lipstick--I just imagine that's how she does it. And most importantly, carry an air of fabulousness, and feel secure in the things you love.

What do you think of the woman with "a way" [wink] style?

pic of Linda Rodin||Aruba floral wallpaper||poodle lamps||

shells||lipstick||sunglasses|| ring|| swan tapware|| turban

DIY Dresser

DIY dresser

Well happy New Year! Hope you are all enjoying the last few days of the holiday. While I'm doing the same, I thought I'd take this time to show you my DIY dresser I mentioned in a previous post.

This DIY was inspired by my love of the Beverly dresser (below). You may recall that I featured it on my boys' bedroom mood board way back in March. It's exactly what I wanted for my boys' bedroom but I wasn't so excited about the  $1,840.00 price tag.

Inspiration dresser

So I went on the hunt for a dresser that I could turn into the Beverly dresser for a fraction of the price. It took me a while to find a dresser with the right balance of clean lines and  tailored details. Everything seemed either too mod or had too many traditional touches. But after hours of searching, I finally settled on the Jake 6 Drawer Dresser from Overstock (below) for $318.32.

budget friendly dresser3_edited-1

Although the shape of the legs aren't exactly like the inspiration dresser, it had a tailored look that wasn't too fussy, and the drawer fronts were flat which meant that it would not detract from the moldings I added. The dresser came in pieces, and I (meaning my husband and I, or really just my husband, ha!) painted the pieces white before putting it together. I summarized some of the project highlights below.

DIY summary

The most difficult part of the project was trying to find corner round moldings. It took me a couple weeks before I found a company, Rockler, that sells both the corner round trim and the straight trim. And what a relief. I almost decided to scrap the corner round trim and make rectangular shaped moldings, but I'm glad I didn't because it wouldn't have been the same without that detail-- don't you agree? In order to get the straight trim moldings to size, we used a hand saw to cut them, and glued all the moldings on. The ring pulls are from ATG Stores, and the measurements are L: 2.0625 inches, W: 2 inches, D: 0.625 inches. It's just the right size for the dresser. We drilled a hole for the ring pulls and used wood putty to cover up the other holes.

last look dresser

Here is the approximate price breakdown for the project:

Jake 6 Drawer Dresser: $318.82

Molding: $53.28

Paint, glue, putty: $16.00

Hardware: $27.78

Total approximate price (not including tools used):  $415.88

I'm really pleased with how the dresser turned out. And relieved to be one step closer to seeing my boys' bedroom completed. Does this look like a DIY you would try?

*Images by Truly blog unless otherwise credited.

5 Last Minute Ideas to Get You In the Holiday Spirit

So the tree has been trimmed, the Christmas cards have gone out to family and friends, and the gifts have been bought and wrapped. Or, maybe not. Maybe you've been so busy that the holidays just sort of snuck up on you. Either way, life has been challenging and you've had a difficult time feeling well, holiday-ish or Christmas-sy this year. I can very much relate. Don't get me wrong. The holidays are may favorite time of year. It's full of yearly traditions, yummy comfort foods, and a reminder to be appreciative of the life God has given me. But all too often, I can get preoccupied with achieving goals, or some other distraction that I lose focus on just being happy with me. When my private practice clients find it difficult to focus on aspects of their lives that bring them joy and happiness, I advise them to keep a journal or running list of the things that make them feel good throughout the day. This is an exercise consistent with cognitive-behavioral theory (the idea that thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are connected, and can be altered) and places a focus on the positive rather than the negative. So with that, I share five last minute ideas that may inspire you to focus on the positive and get you in the holiday spirit. 1. Send Christmas/Holiday cards to neighbors you do not know well. Isn't this what the holiday is about anyway--being generous to others, and not just people we know? I actually got this idea from our new neighbor, "Mr. Ed." Being new to the neighborhood, I was pleasantly surprised to find that he had mailed (not just hand delivered) my family and I a Christmas card. So I figured I would not only return the gesture, but pay it forward by sending holiday cards to my other neighbors as well.

2. Get a holiday manicure. I'm all about  the self-pamper with this one. When I feel good about how I look, I find it's much easier to get in the holiday spirit. Wouldn't you agree?

3. Window shop. If you've read some of my past posts, you know I'm a big window shopper. It is such a great way to get inspiration and prevents the occasional emotional purchase. And what better time to window shop than during the holidays when all the store windows are so beautifully decorated with colorful lights and lush greenery. You can't help but get in the holiday spirit when you see all that pretty.

4. Relax with your favorite thing to do during the holidays. I'm big on the hot chocolate with the holiday movie (see here). I rarely get a chance to watch television anymore, and watching tried and true favorites just feels relaxing to me.

5. Enjoy who or what you have. While we see countless images of happy families during the holidays, there are just as many people who may not have positive family experiences, and may experience anxiety or dread at the thought of reuniting with some members of their family during the holidays. This is why it is so important to appreciate  family members, or even close friends, who are there for you. And if you feel you do not have anyone you can count on at this time,  focus on giving back (by volunteering, or engaging in some act of kindness) to someone who may have less than you. You may be surprised at the act of kindness that is returned to you.

What are some things you like to do to get in the holiday spirit?

* All images by Truly blog.

DIY Action Figure Lamp

If you follow me on Instagram, you may know that I've been busy soaking in all things baby. But I wanted to take a little time to share with you the DIY lamp project I worked on for my boys' bedroom. You may recall that I am in the process of decorating my new home. Things have been hectic, and the decorating continues to progress slowly. So you can imagine that I'm elated when I finally get to complete a project.

Here is my inspiration lamp. You may remember seeing it on my boys' bedroom moodboard? It's a piece designed by Evil Robot Designs. And while it is soooo cool, it is also soooo pricey at $926.00. So I figured I'd make one of my own for the cost of next to nothing. Here's how I did we did it (that is, my husband and I).

Materials:

Ikea Hemma Table Lamp and Ikea Ollsta Lampshade,  cost: $13.00 + $16.99= $29.99

High Gloss Apple Red Rustoleum spray paint, cost: $3.75

Red Rouge Rojo Fabric Simply Fabric Spray Paint, cost: $3.99

All purpose Krazy Glue, cost: $1.00

Action Figures- old and unused or flea market finds, cost: $0 (may be a little more  if you buy toys from a flea market or thrift store)

Approximate total cost for project: $40.00

Does this look like a project you would try in your child's bedroom? If you decide to do make one, let us know how it turned out. I'll be sure to show the lamp in the boys' room when it is completed. I've also been working on a DIY dresser project. Stay tuned for that one.♥

A Trip to Dwell on Design New York

Dwell Store

If you read my last post, you know that I've been trying to catch you up to speed on what I've been up to these last few months. This week I wanted to share with you the Dwell on Design conference I attended in October. Organized by the the editors of Dwell magazine, it was an informative three day affair that included top architects, designers, design professionals, and cultural and educational leaders in the field of design. Honestly, I've never gone to a design conference before, and didn't know what to expect. It was certainly more than just a showcase for pretty things. It was a full-fledged, academic-like conference that inspired thought provoking ideas on design and its impact on the lives of everyday folks like you and me. I was glad I went-- I learned a lot about  major issues in design, particularly as it relates to public spaces and building a sense of community.  I attended the conference on one of the three days. Here are a few pics from the event that I took from my iphone (I accidentally left my camera). A classic Dwell space--modern design that evokes an updated mid-century feel.

Steven Ladd

This is Steven Ladd of Steven and William, New York-based artists (and brothers) known for their collaborative art projects made from recycled materials. Throughout the event Steven and William held what they called a "Scrollathon." Scrolls are rolled-up strips of old fabric that come in all different colors. Conference attendees were invited to create their own scrolls as part of a larger shared artwork meant to promote a sense of community and togetherness. It's also promotes a healthier environment by using recycled material that would otherwise be thrown away. Steven was nice to pose for my picture (and he's pretty cute too).

Scrolls

Here are the scrolls. People were invited to mix and match as they pleased.

Shared Scrolls

And here are what the scrolls look like as a larger artwork- pretty impressive, right?

Sibling Revelry Article

If you want to know more about Steven and William, they've been featured in a variety of publications including Architectural Digest shown above.

Marimekko

Marimekko, a Finnish textile and clothing design company known for its original prints and colors, were one of the sponsors at the event. Love the vibrant patterns shown here.

Dwell View

A view from the entrance.

Humanscale

Humanscale, another sponsor for the event, is a company that specializes in ergonomic design-- "good" design that promotes well-being and productivity by enhancing people's strengths and abilities. They are known for designing innovative pieces for the workplace that are comfortable, functional and user-friendly. Those mushroom seats don't look comfortable, but they really are! I could've sat on them all day.

Thomas Balsley

I also attended one of the hour-long workshops, Reimagining New York City's Terra Firma. Before the workshop, I hadn't thought much about public landscapes or wayfinding. But this workshop really highlighted the issues involved in these types of designs. Here is a synopsis of what each of these architects/designers had to say about it.

Thomas Balsley (the one with the mic) is a renowned landscape architect who has designed bonus plazas in New York city. Bonus plaza's are small outdoor parks, not to be confused with destination parks. NYC bonus plazas make up 90 acres altogether, and in a city like New York, people definitely need somewhere to relax and connect with nature for brief periods during a busy day. Due to the the city's limited space, landscape architects have had to be very creative with where these parks are situated, and many are in unexpected places such as over parking decks. Thomas gave an historical view of these bonus plazas, and noted that plazas designed in the 60's failed because they were either not people centric or only designed for a specific purpose that later became irrevelant (such as for a theater that eventually closed down).  But with the rise of humanism (a big movement in many professions including psychology), architects studied and developed a better understanding of how people used such spaces and the elements that were essential to the way people lived. According to Thomas, people change and so does the use of the neighborhood. Therefore bonus plazas should be designed to be temporary to adjust to the changes.

Michael Bierut

Michael Bierut is a leading graphic designer working with both the Look campaign and Walk NYC program to improve typography on parking signs and overall wayfinding. Of course, we could all benefit from easier ways to get around the city. He noted that one of the major challenges is learning how different types of transportation can "live" together, including motor vehicles, bikes, and pedestrians. With the new bicycle parking racks, transportation has gotten pretty hectic, and creating easy to read signage is one way to offset potential confusion.

Susan Chin

And Susan Chin, an architect and Executive Director of the Design Trust for Public Space, talked about the importance of thinking about how neglected, vacant spaces in underprivileged areas can be used in a new way to promote a sense of pride and trust in the community. She mentioned several programs including Under the Elevated, a program designed to make use of public space below the transit; and the Five Borough Farm where gardens are created on rooftops. These programs focus on ways to promote the welfare of the people which in turn improves overall well-being. She noted that data was collected to determine the benefits of urban agriculture including social welfare and job creation. It would be great to conduct research on the impact these spaces have on mental health and emotional well-being with specific populations.

Dwell end

Despite the very rainy New York City day, I would say that the event was a success overall. As a psychologist, I have an appreciation for forums that discuss the impact of design on people, particularly the emotional impact it has on them. It makes me realize  how relevant psychology is in the field of design, and strengthens my desire to build a career in design psychology through research and consultation.

So have you been to a design conference? What do you think of them?

It's an Anthropologie Fall Fashion Show

Well hello friends! Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday and are ready to face the week with renewed vigor. I just started maternity leave, and am looking forward to baby number three among other things. It's been such a while since I blogged, and I've certainly missed sharing with you. I've been very busy with my day job, and before I knew it, a few days late turned into weeks, and now it has been almost two months. While I didn't intend to leave you this long, taking a small break from blogging allowed me to gain some clarity on the direction I want to take my blog and my new business (Yes, a new business!) which I will share more about in the upcoming months. Before too much time elapsed I wanted to share a newsworthy event I went to in October (better late than never, right?). In addition to my day job, I worked briefly as a part-time stylist for the Short Hills Anthropologie. It was part of my plan to hone my skills in retail and styling as preparation for my wardrobe consulting service (a service I will be offering as part of my new business). While there, I had the chance to help out with a fashion show held at the store.  It was such a cool event for the store and it's customers. The show was put together and coordinated by the store's full-time personal stylist, Jennifer, and all the models were customers. It really gave guests an opportunity to see Anthropologie's fall line on real-life people of all age groups. Here are some pics that I thought captured the event nicely.

Anthro show 1

Here is the set-up just before the show. The overall theme and vibe of the show was equestrian as you may be able to tell from the wheat field and mountainous backdrop. It was put together by the store's very talented visual manager, Lauren, and the visual display interns.

Anthro show 2

I really enjoyed the attention to detail, a hallmark of Anthropologie's style. These wine glasses were set out for the guests.

Anthro show 3

The store was closed for the evening, and guests waited to be checked in. Those on the guest list included loyal customers, their family/friends, and employees from the corporate office.

Anthro show 4

Anthro show 5

And of course a fashion show isn't complete without a tasty layout.

Anthro show 6

This is the store manager, Jenn, welcoming guests to the show and  introducing the visual manager, Lauren.

Anthro show 7

Here is the full-time personal stylist, Jennifer. Kudos to her for putting the entire fashion show together. She talked about her love of fall fashion and the deep, jeweled colors and tones found in Anthro's fall line. "We are not a black store," she pronounced. Each outfit fitly captured the rich colors and textures found throughout the store this time of year.

Anthro show 8

The show began with model Ainsley in the Lorna Silk Maxi Dress with the Canoe Drop Earrings. This is a statement dress and a belt was added to make it more age-appropriate for a younger age group.

Anthro show 9

Model Claire in the Tassled Maxi Dress, Ladder Trace Scarf, and Window Frame Perforated Belt. As you can see, many of Anthro's outfits can be altered or made more unique with a belt.

Anthro show 10

Model Marley in the Risen Sun Sweater Dress with a Draped Moraine Necklace, Crystal Fringed Drop Earrings, and September Satchel. The Risen Sun Sweater dress is cute and very popular. See how many times you can spot it among the pics.

Anthro show 11

Model Allison in the (Tema) Basketweave Sheath, Vegan Leather Bomber, Chevron Belt, and Fanned Leather Necklace.

Anthro show 12

Model Beatrice in the (Tema) Floral Sheath with Bejeweled Belt, and Triangle-Fringe Hoops.

Anthro show 13

Model Deeksha in the Pinion Fit and Flair Dress and Deco Statement Bib Necklace. This dress was one of my favorites.

Anthro show 14

Model Beth in the Painted Field Fit and Flair Dress and Silver Fringed Statement Necklace; and Model Ryanne in the Paisely Moto Jacket, Tuxedo Ruffle Tee, and Rose Gold Tassle Blaze Necklace. This is the end of the show when the models reappeared in pairs.

Anthro show 15

After the show, all guests and models had an opportunity to shop the fashion show.  And almost everyone took advantage of this intimate shopping experience.

Anthro 16

Here is a pic of me (and in all black of all outfits) and the photographer for the show, Joy Sorensen from Firefly Photography. She was super sweet and recently started her photographer business with her husband, Jared (he's taking the picture). See their story here.

Overall, I really enjoyed the show and think an in-store fashion show is a great a way to build clientele and make additional sales. So what do you think of a store hosting a fashion show?