Entertaining Inspiration: Tassel Garland

One of my new party décor obsessions is Tassel Garland.  There is just something so playful and charming about these dangling poufs of paper pieces.  I especially love them in metallic but just about any color combination is a great way to style a birthday party, baby shower or cocktail soiree for friends. 

Be Inspired!

source

source

source

source

source

I love the idea of adding a pattern into the mix.

source

source

source

Dip Dyed Tassel Garland

source

If you want to buy Tassel Garland check out these great Etsy shops, TheFlairExchange, StudioMucci and GlamFeteByBri or you can make your own with this DIY tutorial below.

I spent time on Saturday making 30 tassels to use at an event the non-profit I work with was holding on Sunday.  Unfortunately the event was cancelled due to weather so now I’ve got 30 tassels to do something with.  I guess a party is in order!

source

Have a great day!

Read Full Post »

New on the Bookshelf

There are lots of new design books which have recently been released and as usual, I couldn’t resist adding a few new titles to my ever-growing collection of design books.  Here’s what new on the bookshelf…

Outdoor Spaces, produced by Coastal Living and is filled the stunning images of chic and stylish outdoor space.  I found inspiration on every page, from the accessories and pillows to the furniture layouts and color combinations.  With some many design books focused on the interior of a home it is great to add this outdoor inspiration book to my collection.

If you love to entertain and throw parties, you’ll definitely want to get The Art of The Party.  From small-scale events to larger galas and weddings, you get a fresh crop of ideas that will inspire your next party.

Ronda Carmen, the blogger behind the blog All The Best has compiled some of the most beautiful spaces that exist in her book Designers At Home.  All of the rooms featured are the personal living spaces of some of the nation’s top interior designers like Bunny Williams, India Hicks and Charlotte Moss.

Bazaar Style: Decorating the Market and Vintage Finds spoke to my love of thrifting and finding the diamond in the rough.  I love seeing how items from yesteryear are incorporated into stylish interiors for today.  This is the perfect inspiration book for my this years shopping trip to the Longest Yard Sale.

What books have you added to your bookshelf lately?

Read Full Post »

10 Ways to UpStyle Your Closet

I love a beautiful closet and think it’s one of the easiest ways to enhance your life.  A beautiful closet makes your clothes and accessories look better and I believe it can also make you feel your best each and every day.

Many of the design clients I work with struggle with making the most of their closet, from organizing it to making it a design statement like the rest of their bedroom.  No matter how big or small your closet is, there are some design tricks you can use to make it a beautiful, functional and inspiring space.

1.  CREATE A POWERFUL FIRST IMPRESSION

If you don’t have a walk-in closet, don’t let that stop you from creating a dynamic first impression with your closet.  Painting your closet doors, adding trim work or using wall paper to add a graphic punch is a great way to up-style your closet.

2.  ADD PAINT OR PAPER

Adding a little pizazz to the inside of your closet will not only energize the space but your clothes will look more glamorous surrounded by pretty paper or paint.

 

I love the idea of wall-papering the inside of a closet door.  It creates such a pretty backdrop to display outfits against.

Paint your closet walls your favorite color which is sure to lift your spirits.

3.  ORGANIZE BY COLOR

 

Organizing your clothes by style first (shirts, pants, skirts etc.) and then by color will give your closet a stylized feel and make getting dressed easier.

And don’t forget that the hangers are part of your style statement so use all one style of hanger to give your closet a streamlined and  cohesive look.

4.  KEEP IT ORGANIZED

I can’t stress how important an organized closet is to starting your day on a good foot.  Keep like items together and use shelf dividers to keep things tidy.

 

5.  USE STORAGE BOXES AS A STYLE ELEMENT

Storage boxes are another great organizing tool.  Invest in study boxes with stylish details.  Storage boxes can become part of your closet style!  If you come across plain boxes at the thrift store, an inexpensive roll of wrapping paper and double-sided tape  can transform them into decorative boxes in a flash.

6.  PUT THINGS ON DISPLAY

I love to incorporate decorative accents into a closet space.  Hanging a piece of art or displaying accessories or personal care items on decorative risers can transform your closet into a special space.

7.  MAKE IT PERSONAL

If space allows, why not incorporate a small vanity desk or chaise into your closet space.  It my not seem like you’d hang out in your closet but I promise this will become a special retreat for you.

8.  ADD A TOUCH OF GLAMOUR

One of the easiest ways to up-style your closet is by hanging a chic chandelier or pendant light.  This change alone will make your closet feel special and personal.

9.  ADD SEATING

Ok, who wouldn’t want this gorgeous ottoman in their closet.  Seating, whether a chair, stool or ottoman will give you a place to put on your shoes and turn your closet into a salon.

10.  ADD A RUG

Adding a decorative rug as a style layer in your closest is a quick and easy up-style tip.  Go bold or stay classic but layer a rug to give your closet a sense of warmth and coziness.

If you’re looking for ways to make your closet a more inspiring space, try one or more of these Closet UpStyle Tips!

Happy Decorating!

If you’d like help creating a home your absolutely love, CONTACT ME about my design services!

all images can be found on MY DREAM CLOSET pinterest board.

Read Full Post »

Inspiration + Weekend Reads

I found this article on Growing your Blog as a Business really informative and a bit intimidating.  Seems I need to spend more time on Twitter!

Just in time for some spring painting, Ace Hardware is having another free paint giveaway.  Make sure to pick up your quart today, March 9th!

Check out this fun video on How to Style a Coffee Table from Pottery Barn!

I’m really excited about the new design collaborations at JCP!

This AMAZING site is filled with inspirational videos of women who have made a difference with their lives, the lives of others and the world. This is a must read for any woman who wants to learn, grow and be the best version of themselves that they can!

source

This is one of the most beautiful spaces I’ve ever seen.  I love the simplicity, the rich colors and the warmth the space exudes.  And those curtain panel tops….AMAZING!

It is going to be a beautiful and sunny weekend here in Atlanta so I am planning to spend some time outside and get a jump on my summer tan

Wishing you lots of sunshine and joy this weekend too!

p.s  don’t forget to spring forward and reset your clocks tonight!

Read Full Post »

Ideas for Styling & Accessorizing Your Kitchen

Happy Monday!

I hope everyone had a great weekend and enjoyed watching the Oscars last night.  As always, there were some stunning dresses and some that missed the mark.  I’m sharing my winners of the night at the end of this post so make sure to read through to the end.  Until then I’ve got some kitchen decorating ideas to share with you!

Designing a kitchen is like designing no other space in the home.  There are always space restrictions, function issues and flow considerations  to work with, in addition to balancing style with storage and organization.  Once a kitchen is designed and all the key elements are in place next comes accessorizing countertops, cupboards, walls and floors.  This little task comes with its own challenges but there is lots of inspiration out there and a few design tips to make decorating your kitchen a bit easier.

COUNTERS:

Kitchen counters are a sacred space in most kitchens with the act of creating storage space with work space becoming a real balancing act.

Whenever possible, it is a good idea to go vertical to maximize storage.  A wood plate rack like this one below not only look goods but offers up maximum storage in a minimum footprint and keeps everyday items close at hand.

Countertop accessories like utensils, tools and seasonings can be gathered up on a pretty tray and not left scattered around on the counter.  A tray also makes it easy to move all the items at one time when the extra counter space is needed.

Wire wall racks don’t have to be hung on the wall to function in a kitchen.  This tiered rack not only uses vertical space but keeps items super organized.

If you have the wall space, create more counter and surface space with the addition of a wall shelf.  This shelf is so beautiful and adds to the character of the kitchen.

p.s.  A super stylish touch for any kitchen counter is the addition of a small accent lamp or two.  Task lighting and ambience at its best!

CABINETS & SHELVING:

A big trend in kitchens at the moment is open shelving.  Taking the doors off of cabinets not only allows someone to showcase a beautiful collection of dinnerware or pottery but the kitchen will have the impression of feeling  larger and more open.

Open kitchen shelving requires organization but when kept organized the impact is stunning.

You’ll also notice that the way the pieces are placed on these shelves utilize vertical space and layering to make the display visually pleasing and efficient.

Open shelving in a kitchen also provides a great opportunity to display decorative items that will enhance the overall look of the kitchen.

And don’t forget the sides of cabinets as a potential display/storage area.  A simple towel bar can become an attractive spot to hang baskets or towels.

(Ikea has great handing bar accessories to create this look)

FLOORS:

When decorating your kitchen, think of your floor as you do your wall.  Add interest and color with rugs, paint or decorative flooring.

I love the look of a runner in the kitchen instead of using several smaller rugs placed in front of the sink, stove etc.  The runner enhances the size of the kitchen and draws you in to the space.

Even traditional area rugs are a great way to style a kitchen.  Larger, flat weave rugs will bring pattern and warmth to an otherwise hard surface kitchen space.

More and more people are opting for painted floor treatments in their kitchen for both the ease of care and added style.  I love this diagonal stripe pattern which adds real visual impact.

When smaller accent rugs are used in a kitchen, go for something bold and dynamic.  This more modern geometric pattern is a great contract to all the other elements in this kitchen.

Or, smaller rugs in the same color but with different patterns is another fun style option.

FLOR tiles are a great style and cost-effective option for kitchen floors.  If one tile gets ruined simple pull that one out and replace it.

WALLS:

Seems that wall space in kitchens is becoming less and less in home design these days.  Because of that it is really important to make a statement with any wall décor you do add to your kitchen.

Framed chalkboards are great not only because they give an eclectic touch but also because they are functional for writing down list, menus and recipes.

Framed “kitchen themed” prints or even tea towels is a great way to add style to your kitchen without much cost.  Keep the frames simple and use color to make the impact.

I love decorative plates as a wall décor statement in a kitchen.  Collect a variety of plates in a simple style but with varying colors and patterns.  The plates can easily be taken down when needed for entertaining too!

This fun DIY project is a great way to create wall décor for your kitchen.  Spray paint some thrift store flatware, frame it against a piece of decorative or plain scrapbook paper and you’ve got a great look.  Just imagine all the color possibilities.

How don’t forget a large wall clock as an option for your kitchen wall.  Go big and bold.

And how about considering a large round frame or embroidery hoop with a piece of decorative fabric.

The kitchen is the hub of the home so make sure to spend a little time creating a space that feels good and adds to the spirit of your home!

***************************************

And now my picks for Oscar best dressed are:

Charlize looked stunning in this white gown and her short hair made it even more chic.

This dress worn by Sandra did not have to rely on leg slits or a deep neckline to make it stand out.  The fabric and fitted shape make this dress stand out.

While I didn’t really like the little loop on the belt, the rest of the dress was amazing. The tiered color at the bottom was flirty and fun.

Whenever I have the chance to attend a super formal event, I always opt for a color instead of black because it always stands out. This royal blue color was stunning on Robin and made the simple velvet fabric come alive.  My vote for color of the year 2014!

And finally Jane Fonda.  I love anything in bright yellow and good golly doesn’t she look great for here age! WOW!

Have a great day and do it in style!

Read Full Post »

How to Style a Bathtub Ledge

When it comes to decorating there is always one area of the bathroom that seems to be neglected by a majority of homeowners.  I don’t think the oversight it because people don’t recognize it as an area of opportunity, but instead they don’t know the best way to approach decorating it.  The area in question is the Bathtub Ledge and for women like me who love to take baths and find it a necessary task to manage stress, this is an area that needs and warrants some beautiful décor.

FIRST, decorating principle is to look at the bathtub ledge as an extension of overall bathroom décor. Use elements that work with the other colors and textures you have throughout the bathroom.

SECOND,  decorate this area for both beauty and function.  Yes, it’s about having all those lotions and potions you put in your bath close at hand, but having them look pretty too will help in achieving a sense of relaxation and pampering.  Place bath salts in decorative glass jars or decanters.  Use trays or baskets to hold towels, sponges and reading material. And, a beautiful plant or vase of flowers will definitely invoke a sense of beauty.

THIRD, incorporate candles for both the ambience they bring and the mood they set.

Here’s a little inspiration to help you create the perfect design plan for your bathtub ledge.

Vintage decanters are readily available at flea markets and thrift store for little or nothing.  If you like the look of these silver topped decanters, you can do a little DIY fix with silver paint and get this look using all glass decanters.

I love the mint julep cup as a stand in flower vase.  There are a slew of these available on Etsy.

Consider a tiered dessert server as a bathtub accessory.  The double shelves create more place to display items without taking up more room.

And, don’t forget that a beautiful chandelier is part of the bathtub décor. {Remember to put it on a dimmer switch to control the lighting}.

Here’s a great collection of items that will work on just about any bathtub ledge.

*  Glass jars available from HomeGoods, TJMaxx, Target and Wal-Mart.

*  Wood Tray (or similar) available from Hobby Lobby or JoAnn’s.

* To increase your supply of bath salts try mixing a smaller container of fragrant salts with plain old inexpensive Epsom salt (which is also a great for relaxation in the tub).

*  Beautiful foliage–free from your yard!

And just on the off-chance that you have a free-standing bathtub with no ledge, there is still a way for you to incorporate some decorative elements to use for those relaxing soaks.

A tub caddy is the perfect little piece to hold all  your special trinkets.  Keep the tray up all the time and accessorize it like you would a tub ledge.

Now all that’s left is to Relax!

p.s.  Champagne can also be considered a bathtub accessory!

For these images and more beautiful bathroom décor, check out my Bathroom Inspiration board on Pinterest!

See you back here tomorrow with more inspiration! 

Read Full Post »

My Blog Plans for 2013

Happy Friday!

Can you believe it is almost the end of January?  Where is the time going?  Over the last couple of weeks I’ve had so many thoughts and ideas brewing  in my head about my plans for my blog.  I’ve finally had time to get a few things jotted down on paper and wanted to share them with you.

Last January I wrote a post entitled “What I Want to Share” and outlined my blog goals and the things I wanted ConfettiStyle, the blog to be about.  After reading though the post again, I am glad to say the blog really spoke to the areas outlined, My Love of Design, Crafting, Entertaining, Design Education, Gifting, Fashion , Inspiring others and Shopping…all the things I love and am passionate about. So, my 2013 goals will not stray too far away from where they were last year but will allow me to share more of what drives and motivates me every day.

2013 will be the year of Sharing My Passions!

I hope to inspire you with DECORATING IDEAS and TIPS that will allow you to love every inch of your home!

Because I never want to stop learning, I hope to TEACH YOU SOMETHING NEW and INSPIRE you with words of wisdom.

 I want to inspire you to TRY A CRAFT or DIY PROJECT!

I hope to give you FASHION IDEAS that will help you make the most of your own signature style!

I want to inspire you with GIFT WRAPPPING IDEAS so that every gift you wrap, no matter how big or small is simply beautiful!

I hope to give you ENTERTAINING IDEAS and TIPS that will make every occasion a special one!

And along  the way I will share more of my life’s journey and all that inspires me!

Thanks for joining me here at ConfettiStyle everyday.  Good things are coming in 2013!

I hope you weekend is filled with happiness!

Read Full Post »

Selecting Bold Color Combos That Work For You

I’m finding myself attracted to bold color combinations of late.  While I’ve always loved bright colors, I find the combination of two bright colors to be invigorating, refreshing and a source of happiness.

One of the color combinations I’m loving at the moment is Yellow and Orange.  Regardless of the tone, when these colors are used together they create a sense of warmth and comfort.  Yellow has always been and will continue to be one of the most used decorating colors and bright orange is a great color to add depth to a space.

Mixed with darker elements, orange and yellow take on a more mature  preppy feel.

Don’t these colors just make you happy? Mixed with traditional accessories and gold finishes, yellow and orange make everything around it feel classy and hip!

I love how the orange rug helps to ground the space and make everything else feel settled.

Deeper shades of orange mixed with lighter shades of yellow add just the right punch to create a focal point within a room.

Infuse a lot of white and orange and yellow become powerful color accents.

I’m also love the impact that Red and Teal give to a space.  Red lends an air of sophistication while teal adds a modern element.  When mixed with white these two colors just light up a space.

I adore this deeper shade of teal mixed with a classic fire engine red and how crisp it looks.

Red is a powerful color on its own and when mixed with teal it becomes a bit more playful.

Bold touches make a big impact!

The third color combo that is making swoon is Pink and Turquoise.  When done right these colors lose all of their youthfulness and create a beautiful palette for decorating.

Softer tones of pink and turquoise are the poster child of feminine and pretty!

 

A more “hot pink” shade mixed with a softer blue marry classic and contemporary perfectly.

 

Using different shades of both colors can create a look that is soft without being too sweet.

 

And when surrounded by neutrals, pink and turquoise give a space a modern ethnic feel.

If you’re unsure about using bold colors in your home décor, here are few tips that might help you warm up to your favorite color combos.

1.  The next time you are at the grocery store look for flowers in your bold color choice and bring them home.  Create a flower arrangement and see how the color combination feels to you.  Flowers are not a big investment but if you like how the colors look and feel together you’ll be more confident using them in larger impact statements within décor.

2. Consult your Color Wheel

Colors basically coordinate in one of two ways. Complimentary colors sit in direct opposition to one another.  These color pairings, such as blue and orange, create balance. Analogous colors sit next to one another on the color wheel. Analogous or “similar” color pairings, such as true green and yellow-green, coordinate because they share a base color

You can make the following combos using the color wheel as your guide:

*  Colors directly next to each other (i.e. yellow and yellow-orange; yellow and yellow-green; violet and blue-violet, etc.)

*Colors that form right (90 degree) angles with each other (i.e. yellow and red-orange; blue and violet-red; green and orange, etc.)

* Colors directly across from each other (i.e. yellow and violet; blue and orange; red and green, etc.)

* Colors that form a T (i.e. blue, orange, and violet-red; yellow, violet, and red-orange; yellow, blue-green, and red-orange, etc.)

*Colors that form an X (i.e. blue, orange, violet-red, and yellow, violet, blue-green, and red-orange, etc.)

3.  Colors that are a part of a “color family” also apply. You can substitute pink with red and still be able to pull off the combos based on the color wheel

4.  When choosing your palette, be sure to limit your selection to just two or three hues, making an effort to use each shade multiple times throughout the room. Aim for at least three uses per color. This helps to create continuity, ensuring a flowing and well-coordinated design. Also, never underestimate the power of white space. A little bold goes a long way. White space creates contrast, giving the eyes a break and allowing bold hues to pop.

5.  If you are needing a starting point, look at the colors you wear.  Your personal wardrobe is a great barometer as to what colors you feel comfortable and confident in and around.

6.  Love bold colors, but still feeling a lack of confidence? Why not choose a bold color to use as an accent? Even in a small room, a single, well-placed accent wall in a bold color can add depth, making the space appear larger. You can also introduce a bold hue by opting for bright accessories, such as curtains and throw pillows.

Here’s a great example of how dynamic my favorite bold colors can look when used together!

Being confident in choosing a bold color combination that will work for you is a bit science and a whole lot of gut instinct!

Do you have a favorite color combo? 

These images and more color inspiration can be found on my Color Combinations board over at Pinterest!

Read Full Post »