Five Favorites - Contemporary Craft Show

Ohhh I had just so many errands to run and events to attend last weekend, but I just couldn't stay away...ended up driving on out to the Contemporary Crafts Show in Santa Monica to see all the silk painters and incredible artisans - it’s such a high end and wonderful show. It was just perfect weather, and wished I could have stayed longer ~ I even brought grandma!

I thought I’d share with you my five favorite booths at the show (although there were SO very many amazing shops!).

1. Olivia Batchelder - Art Couture

This amazing and gentle lady's work is so whimsical and free flowing. She was kind enough to give me some personal lessons when I was just barely starting off and her creative spirit really shines through her work (and her smile). She had her signature ribbon scarves ~ almost musical feeling, twirly, swirly scarves and also really special patched together pieces as well.

Her booth looked phenomenal and I was so happy to see her, even if just for a moment. She offers original paintings, hand painted scarves and garments. To learn more about Olivia Batchelder's work click HERE.

2. Erica Batchelder - Hand Dyed Silk Creations

Like mother like daughter? Yes and No! While both are extremely talented, Erica’s collection is more geared towards specialized dyeing and shibori techniques, and other precious fashion accessories such as these wonderful silk pins displayed here at her booth. I have one of her turquoise knit scarves and I just love it. Gorgeous! To learn more about her work click HERE.

3. Leighelena - Enamel Jewelry by Leigh Navarro

One word here - OBSESSED. I love love LOVE her amazing enameled, super large and in charge circle rings!! She came all the way from Texas to be here, and I am SO glad she did! The beautiful glazed designs sit pretty ontop of the smoothest wooden base and make such an amazing statement! I bought a handful, and have been getting compliments every day on my amazing rings. AND she had them in different sizes which I can NEVER find my right size! Hers fit me perfectly! To learn more about Leighelena click HERE.

4. Leyla Navab - Art Silk

Needless to say, I stopped at every silk painter's booth, but this one REALLY stopped me in my tracks. Leyla's attention to detail (extremely impressive on chiffon) and sense of sophistication combined to create just a lovely space of decadent luxury. She was so very nice, and even invited me to come paint in her studio some day! And she is local! I really look forward to painting with this amazing lady, and seeing a true master at work. To learn more about Leyla Navab's silk paintings, click HERE.

5. Just for Fun by Dotty Calabrese

Wow wow wow! At first I thought these were ikat designs, but this friendly, purple haired, creative artisan from Palo Alto described to me her special process of hand woven, hand painted silk threads and it was simply fascinating. The scarves were bold, bright, yet sophisticated and oh so soft. I want the far one on the right! She had all sorts of lovely treasures as well in her booth, but these gorgeous scarves really took my breath away. To learn more about Just for Fun, click HERE.

Thank you, to all the artisans for sharing their photo and your amazing artwork at the show. I had a great time and am inspired by each of you!

Aqua Blues - Friday Fashion Finds

So, did you hear? Aqua blues are IN for summer so today I've decided to highlight some incredibly COOL turquoise and teal blue finds to add a fresh splash to your outfit. Mix in bright, beautiful aquas into a summer light wardrobe of sand whites, khakis, and straw totes for a marina ready, amazing summer look!

Aqua Blues - One by One

1. Turquoise from Cynthia Steffe by Pantone Spring/Summer Color Report

This report is chock full of lovely pastels and bright colors that will be important for Spring, and had references to high end designers showing how they've interpreted the hues into their lines

2. Turquoise necklace & earrings by BellaBeadsOriginals

Such a dainty and beautiful set to add a twinkle to your summer outfit. Perfect for day or night, they look like little clusters of cool ocean mist resting lightly against each other - gorgeous!

3. Dark turquoise resin ring by BuyMyCrap

Hand made, this beautiful ring with intricate swirling organic patterning is anything BUT crap! Love it's bright, happy color and large statement it makes - funky, bold, and beautiful.

4. Proenza Schouler had one of the best Spring fashion shows this year, and this aqua dress is by far one of my favorites! Read the review here.

5. Sea Rout ring by SoraDesigns

Bursting floral blooms for Spring/Summer have been carved out of glass in this lovely, romantic ring. Perfectly appropriate in it's aqua hues.. and it's adjustable too! By the way, I just love everything is SoraDesign's shop!

6. Seascape Ocean Beach painting by Chris Maestri

So calm, peaceful, and alive - the composition and transition of aqua hues immediately transports me out of my head and into a beach side daydream - ahhh. This contemporary fine art painting would look amazing in a room adding just a little sprinkle of serenity.

7. Vintage turquoise snakeskin heels by Indaistyle

These are SO hot!!! I can see them with rolled chinos and a tank, or a short, silver cocktail dress.. whatever you do, they add a air of sexy, vintage chic to your outfit. Wish I was a size 7.5 so I could strut around in these beauties!

8. Vintage blue baby bear by ErinJade

Ok so I know this has nothing to do with fashion, but how cute is this little blue bear?! He is a vintage figurine, hand painted, and super cuddly. He would look so adorable resting on your kitchen windowsill - supervising all the bear treats being prepared! ;)

9. Ocean Tide - hand painted silk scarf by MuseSilkPaintings

The easiest way to dress up your outfit is to throw on a scarf. This one is special, hand painted with the color of the ocean sweeping down the sheer georgette silk. So romantic and elegant.

10. Aqua alligator cuff by UNEARTHED

This cuff is just to die for. Add a bit of rock and roll, and ultimate luxury to your bare wrist and loose T for summer. Goes with anything - has a silver lining and is just so hot.

11. Luxury online shopping site Netaporter features this sultry mini dress by Stella McCartney in their fantastic magazine pages.. what a sexy dress for day or night - love the blue!!

12. Georgia turquoise satin clutch by EmmaGordonLondon

Perfect clutch for those summer weddings! Satiny smooth, with an elegant flower detail, I like this clutch because it it so modern and simple, yet ultimately feminine with it's understated scallops on the side. Would look great with a pale blue, white, gold or silver dress.

Hope you enjoyed today's Aqua Blues Friday Fashion Finds! Please help me improve my blog by taking this quick SURVEY! Thank you for your feedback, and cheers to an aqua cool summer!

Spring Color Report - Friday Fashion Finds

Ahhh Spring is finally here.. the birds are tweeting, the sun is shining, and oh yeah, wait a minute, what colors are we supposed to be wearing? According to the Pantone Color Report, there are some really great pastels and brights for Spring that we should definitely explore!

This is part 1 of a series of color reports. Today I have put together 2 outfits appropriate for our warmer days ahead - "Coral Blossoms" and "Sage Adventure".

Coral Blossoms

Warm and uplifting, coral(1) is such a beautiful hue! But how do you wear it without looking like one of the Golden Girls?

Tip #1 - don't wear it in a matching pant suit

Tip #2 - use it sparingly with fresh whites, tans, and gold

You can still be comfortable in the sun in this chic, fresh outfit. Throw on a cotton blouse, your favorite cut offs, and yummy gold lame pumps(5) for a bit of glam. Then grab this heavenly, white linen tote(4) that looks like it can hold about anything, and you are already stylin'. Next, add in a splash of color with this romantic, hand painted scarf, and another pop of WOW with these stunning turquoise/gold cascade earrings(2). Top it all off (especially if you are having a bad hair day) with this amazing Fedora vintage straw hat(3) and voila - you're ready to take on Spring!

Sage Adventure

Cool and sophisticated, sage greens(1) can be so gorgeous if styled the right way. How to wear it without looking frumpy?

Tip #1 - don't wear it as a Snuggie

Tip #2 - style sage green with cinnamon browns, cool blues, lilacs, khaki and gold

Whether you are off on a Southwestern vacation, or just exploring your way through the city's urban jungle, you can still look fantastic and chic with this combination.

Gear up for your journey with this cute little romper(5)and super sweet boots(6). Add a little southwestern flair with this gorgeous wool handbag(3) and bring out the gold with this organic feeling, gold crocheted ring(4) ~ like twisted branches wrapped around your finger! And last but not least, tie it all together with this lovely, hand painted scarf(2) with the cool blues and sages floating together like feathers in the wind. Your adventure awaits - ready, Sage, Go!

Friday Fashion Finds - Aloha Summer!

A very dear friend of mine has decided to move to Hawaii in pursuit of the ultimate artists' dream, and to explore all the romantic islands have to offer. From the stretching white sands, swaying palms, gorgeous flowers and yes, I believe there really is magic in the Hawaiian air, I have no doubt it will be the adventure of a lifetime!

Seeing as Elle also feels Hawaiian accessories will be a fun trend this summer, and how I'm just trying out my wings with Etsy's new Treasury East feature it seems like the perfect time create this tropical/surf Treasury. I dedicate today's post to my dear friend's upcoming Hawaiian journey.

To view this active Treasury (with links to all these fun Aloha items) click HERE!

To my friend, you know who you are ~ sending all my love, and wishing luck, fortune, and never-ending creative inspiration to follow you everywhere.

~A.R.

Friday Finds - Mother's Day Gift Ideas

Did you know that Mother's Day is fast approaching? Mark your calendar for May 9th and don't be caught unprepared! Today I am sharing a few fantastic shops with unique and handmade gift ideas - enjoy!

Just look at the detail of this beautiful, sunshine Mother's Day card! Super sweet, hand decorated cards can be found at FallingStarLane. So much variety, and like a little gift shop in the stars, also carries jewelry, wraps, and all sorts of goodies!

This eighties MOM necklace is absolutely fantastic! Shop this piece, along with a cascade of gorgeous vintage treasures at Heidi9983. The shop selections are super chic and I sort of want everything in it!

Ahhhh Spa Day.. Why leave home? Pamper mom with this refreshing home-spa "cake". Shop more unique cake gift sets at this delightful store called Hold the Flour.

These are Salt & Pepper shakers - can you believe it? OK so they are actually not available, but this talented glass artist, Gwendydd from SuperNovaGlassworks is happy to create another pair for the art lover, who wants to add just a little dash of color and beauty to their table. So beautiful!

Wear your heart on your sleeve, or, err.. on this hand made iphone/touch sleeve is just as good :). So cute, this repurposed sleeve is the perfect gift for the modern mom, and will remind her that your heart goes with her everywhere! Find a variety of colors and patterns here at BelviDesigns.

There is always the classic bouquet, but this beautiful bouquet will never wilt! So warm, comforting, and the perfect accent to a loving home. It reminds me of a country cottage on a summer day. Shop this lovely arrangement along with many other STUNNING designs here at FloresDelSol.

Speaking of florals, this hand painted, silk square scarf is a gorgeous fashion accent she can wear so many different ways for Spring, and really all year round. Abstract paint daubs give the impression of blooming meadows from a dream, and sure to be a big hit! Find this, and many other lovely scarves at my MuseSilkPaintings store.

Give back a little snuggly comfort and warmth to mom with this hand woven, wool throw. Generous in size, and such an elegant texture! Find it along with so many more hand woven treasures like blankets, scarves, and towels here at WarpedandWonderful.

Money doesn't grow on trees, but her fantastic jewelry can shine on this one! This jewelry tree is a beautiful home decor piece for wall mounting, which doubles as the perfect place to store her hanging jewelry. I love the curves and the swaying branches, along with the clean, modern lines. Find it, along with other inventive hand made displays here at LcMollica.

Art Nouveau Paradise - Favorites on Fridays

I can't keep it hidden any longer. While I have a great love for all artistic expression and movements, Art Nouveau has got to me my all time favorite! I'm hopelessly mesmerized by the swaying, swirling movements and touched by the message it sang from it's origins - of using art to make our daily lives more fulfilling and beautiful, whether it be on a painting, vase, or jewelry - is is still art. Last week's feature of the amazingly talented Emily Balivet renewed my Art Nouveau passion and so for today I'm adding one more type of Friday Feature to add to the mix called Favorites on Fridays.

Here is the one-by-one listing of today's Favorites on Fridays - the gorgeous finds from Etsy. Here is everything you need to create your own Art Nouveau Paradise!

1. Mini Pillows by DalesDreams

How adorable! They are less than 3 inches large and I want them all - especially the M-U-S-E :) :) :)

2. Vintage Swan Ceramic Trivet by TheArtNouveauShop

Are they birds in love or is it one admiring it's own reflection? Whatever you decide, the gorgeous symmetrical design and ivery, green combination is so sweet and gorgeous. A lovely piece of home decor!

3. Peacock Pouf footrest by RECOVERED

At first I did not know what this was, but upon closer inspection, I found it is a recovered ottoman/footrest fit for a princess. Can you imagine this in a modern room with black, white and peacock blue accents? Sigh.. I really want to rest my footsies on this!

4. Eva II original painting by Six06

Obsessed, much? Yes, yes I am. I love the smooth shading, her twisting, curling locks, and smoldering stare. The tonal color story makes it a perfect and sophisticated accent for any wall in your house. Such a statement piece and truly a treasure.

5. Art Nouveau Decorative box by LillyRay

Love this colorful, patterned little box to bring a little pop to your dresser. You can keep jewelry or hidden love notes in it. Whatever you keep, it should be as precious as it's holder. :)

6. Green Antique Vases by Fixybopixy

These amazing vintage vases should be filled with expensive champagne and shared with all the royal court (well, if that is what you call your closest friends, anyway). They take my breath away, truly! Go ahead, you can wear your tiara with these babies on the table.

7. Tangled Poppies original painting by AmandaMueller

Can't... stop.. staring.. swirly.. twirly.. LOVE this beautiful painting and I'm completely mesmerized with the flowing line work and rich contrast of ruby red flowers against the aqua blues. So beautiful!

8. Etched Nouveau Steel String Guitar by GypsyTradingCompany

For the super cool musician, what a gorgeous guitar and fine nouveau etching. Be the envy of the band with this gorgeous piece while you play all your favorite tunes.

9. Hand Carved Door Applique by HOLIWOOD

A lovely way to add a little special touch to your kitchen cabinets. After all, Art Nouveau is all about making our day to day lives more enriched with art and beautiful pattern :)

10. Peacock Feather Linen Pillow by Giardino

Love this pillow! The colors are a little retro and the pattern is so fun. The exotic feathers bring happy elements of nature and a bit of the tropical, while keeping the Nouveau theme. Love, love love! Did I mention I love it?

11. Cloud Rider original painting by AmandaMueller

Groovy, baby. This amazing artwork is painted on wood panel. As the elegant cloud goddess bike rides her way across the sky, it feels so whimsical and modern at the same time. Where would you hang it?

12. Familiarity screen print by estasketch

There is something quite captivating in this piece. Who knows, maybe it's because I'm a Gemini that I'm drawn to these twins enjoying the comforts of familiarity. The teal blues and off white colors have a cool, vintage feeling and I love how their hair takes the form of ribbon like waves. They seem weightless and immortal.

13. Tree of Life original painting by JohnDHarmon

The full moon, night sky, and blooming tree against the gold seem quite regal, and just a bit spooky. What a wonderful, magical piece! Love the ornate scroll work around the edges - perfect for the Witchy Woman in you.

14. Peacock Feather Vessel by Webbpottery

You cannot have a Peacock pouf and pillow without the vessel to match! Love this gorgeous piece. It is, of course, hand crafted and so lovely. The feathers wrap around this piece as if they are floating in the wind on an afternoon day. Just looking at it makes me happy!

15. Art Nouveau Woman Painting by GretchenMatta

I feel like this is the Art Nouveau version of Snow White escaping into the woods. She looks so innocent and beautiful, while the clawing branches reach out for her and the dark shadows in the background represent the foreboding danger ahead. Despite the pastel color story, the painting feels quite dramatic - and I want to eat it up!

16. Hand Painted Porcelain Bowl by Stephaniekao

Wondering what to toss your favorite fruit in or do you need a pretty bowl to hold some floating flowers in? This is it! Hand painted, gorgeous detailed line work all around the edges make this beauty a one of a kind treasure. I would like a whole set, please.

17. Nouveau Leaf Quilt by Bbusbyarts

This is a quilt. Yes, I'm serious - a quilt! Quite possible the most beautiful quilt I've ever seen. Just look at all the tonal shades of gorgeous reds, browns, greens, golds. The modern slivers of the design. I just may run out of words here, but all in all, I'm beyond impressed with the skills it took to create such a masterpiece. And the fact that it is in the nouveau style, well excuse me I think I'm drooling.