You're Making Me Blush!

Things have been extremely hectic lately.  I know I'm not the only one feeling overwhelmed so I'll spare you the details, but Saturday I really reached the max I could handle and I felt like I was losing my mind.  As much as I would love to, I can't seem to organize my thoughts enough to pull together a few well-written posts this week.  So rather than giving you crappy half-written posts, I will rely on the magic of imagery.

Lately I've been mesmerized by blush.  The color, that is.  Something about it just seems so regal and feminine, but not overly cheesy.  So here are a few blushing highlights from around the cloud.

 via, via, via, via

I promise tomorrow I'll be back in full force and you will get an earful for Thursday Thoughts.

Are you hopping on the Blush Wagon?
What color has you feeling good lately?

Reblog: I'm Glad I Exist's Guide to Smarter Shopping

Your regular blogging program will be put on hold today to shout out to Meghan at I'm Glad I Exist, one of my new favorite blogs.  Last night she posted her Guide to Smarter Shopping and it is genius I tell you.  While it may not be totally radical information, it was just what I needed since I've had an absolutely awful case of the shopping bug lately.  So go check out her post and the rest of her blog while you're at it for some funny practicality.

One thing I will add is a comment on shipping charges.  I absolutely refuse to pay shipping charges.  If I have to order something online I will either order enough to get free shipping or I won't order.  Personally, I just can't justify paying shipping charges.  I'd rather put that money towards something I love than waste it on shipping.  That's why sites like Piperlime and Zappos are so awesome.  So wait for free shipping sales or order from merchants that cover the cost themselves, because you deserve to spend your money on yourself, not a cardboard box.

And because I'm a glutton for punishment, please join me in drooling over this amazing style image that only furthers my wish to shop.  I have a serious problem...

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What are your personal shopping rules?  Share in the comment section!

Style Twins: Oscar de le Renta & Tobi Fairley

Remember a few weeks ago when I came across a chevron dress and duvet that were style twins?  Well, it's time for another set!  This time the similarities come from fashion designer Oscar de la Renta and interior designer Tobi Fairley.

 

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De la Renta's dress is from the Spring 2012 line and the room is Fairley's guest bedroom in her house.  The connection between the two is quite obvious - a heavily patterned look in black, yellow, and white.  The dress' yellow is slightly lime-ier than the bedroom, which has a more sunshiney hue.  Both the room and the dress are grounded in traditional design - a conservatively cut suit and historic-style furniture - but are made modern with bright punches of color.  This design technique is actually very common for Fairley, and one of my personal favorite ways to decorate.

I actually am generally a fan of the bumblebee color scheme, and have used it often myself.  I also really enjoy a good Oscar dress (Oscar at the Oscar's anyone?) and many of Tobi's designs, but unfortunately these both fall short for me.  So much pattern crammed together with such a loud color scheme makes my brain feel like mush.  But because I don't like being a total Negative Nancy, here are some looks these two have done that I think are beyond squeakalicious!

Oscar de la Renta



This one was actually found on Tobi's blog!



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Tobi Fairley



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What are your thoughts on the similar style pictures?  Are you a fan of Oscar and Tobi?
Comment and share your thoughts please!

Attitude of Gratitude - Week 10

We've made it to the double digits Squeaksters!  Week 10 is looking good, and here's why:

Oh Mucinex DM, how I love thee, let me count the ways. coughing, sneezing, stuffy nose...  You take care of it all!  Let me preface this gratitude bullet by saying that I am not a medicine person.  I will go days with a horrible cold and migraine before doing anything about it.  No I'm not a glutton for punishment, I just try to shy away from unnatural medicine as much as possible.  But sometimes you've gotta do what you gotta do, and working 10+ hour days when you can't breathe and feel like you've been run over with a bus just doesn't really work for me.  Last week I was hit with an awful bug and try as I did to avoid it, I had to take something.  After having this in my system for jsut a day I felt soooo much better and I kicked myself for not taking it sooner (which I do everytime).  So here is my official appreciation for modern medicine, even though we have a love-hate relationship, right now I am certainly more on the love side.



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My sick week was brightened by this emerald beauty.  A few months ago while suit shopping I found it and have been dreaming about it ever since.  Even though I loved it, I just couldn't stomach the $80 price tag despite its' good quality.  But my level-headedness paid off because when I went to the mall for the cooking class with Kelly last week I scored this little baby for half off!  Naturally I wound up taking two home so I still spent the $80, but I now got two tops for the price of one so I don't feel guilty at all.  Woohoo, shopping success!


I was also reminded how much I love weddings this past Saturday.  I work for a wedding planner part time and this past weekend I helped out at a wedding that was so different than others I've done before.  It was actually my first church ceremony (it seems to be a lot more rare these days) and the reception was one of the most beautiful I've ever seen.  It had a very rustic yet elegant vibe that was so amazing I can barely do it justice with words.  Unfortunately we haven't gotten the pictures yet but I'm hoping to see them once the photographer shares them and once I get my hands on them I will definitely be doing a wedding feature on it because it was squeaklicious!

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What are you thankful for this week?  Share in the comment section!

Don the 'Ron: Chevron Spans the Market

Earlier this week I was browsing Nordstrom's Anniversary sale and spoiler alert, way too many things are way too amazing.  At least with such huge discounts they're slightly more attainable.  Why I do this when I've already announced my credit card is on retreat I'll never know. Glutton for punishment, maybe?  But I digress... I came across this dress:

Look familiar?  As soon as I spotted it I knew I had seen the likes of it before...

That's right, Target shoppers!  They carry a duvet version of that couture dress in stores near you for a very affordable price.  Soak in the bliss...  Chevron is very in right now, as are teal and grey, so naturally this duvet stood out to me when I spotted it in the home aisle a few weeks back.

I considered using this chevron home line in Squeaks' apartment for about a mili-second before I realized it wasn't at all the look he goes for and is a little too young for him.  But when I saw that dress it took even more self control not to snag it, especially at a sale price of only $50!  And what do I do when I pass on owning beautiful things?  I blog about them so I can share them with you so you can own them and so I can  look back and remember them.

So whether you're a Target shopper or a Nordstrom shopper (or both), you can don the 'ron!

Which is your favorite, dressing or bedding?  Are you running to purchase one?
(P.S. Both is a totally acceptable answer!)

Barneys Sale Wishlist

Barneys New York is having a super sale right now with some designer labels up to 75% off!  While I'm forcing my credit card to take a little hiatus at the moment, it doesn't hurt to do a little browsing...  So here are a few of the things I'm pining over.

{I apologize for the weird white lining around the photos!  That's how they come out when you borrow them from the Barney's site.}

1.  Barneys New York Co-Op, Mustard Anastasia Flat $99

I'm a sucker for cute flats.  I fully admit it.  These are an obvious choice with that fab yellow color and the cut out side to let your feet breathe.  Summer necessity I'd say.

2.  Kim Seybert, Capiz Placemat $27

A few of these sprinkled on my dining room table would be the perfect pop of turquois, don't you think?  Right now it has a bowl of blue potpourri and lots of junk mail.  I'm officially ashamed.

3.  A.L.C., Jasper Pant $259

Pipe seamed and green... Maximum squeak alert!

4.  Citizens of Humanity, Elson-Lunar $79

These jeans look hella flattery, not to mention super comfy.  I always go for the dark jean so I can look sleek and slim!

5.  Mary Katrantzou, Coral Twist Print Dress $559

I had to throw this one in just for fun.  Tell me that dress doesn't scream 'fun in the summer sun' to you.  Those vibrant colors are to die for.  Oh, and that reminds me, I need to take a trip to the aquarium...

What do you think of my choices?  What would you get?

Pedal to the Metal

Do you like to make your wardrobe or your house sparkle?  If so, you are not alone, my friend.  If not, maybe seeing these photos will change your mind.  2012 has been big on metallics, so let's talk shiny!



The term metallic generally refers to colors in the silver or gold family, as well as bronze and copper.  But it doesn't have to stop there!  Any color can be given the metallicized look by adding in metal flakes (or a sparkled sheen when it comes to makeup or wardrobe).  This gives you endless possibilities... But be careful!  Because metallics command attention, they are best used in small doses to avoid being overly bold or cheap-looking.  Pairing them with deep colors can help ground them and create a more pleasing space or outfit.

Here's a roundup of some great ways to bling out you and your home.

For You 

via Mama Knows, Southern Charm, & Real Beauty

Left:  Feeling daring?  Take a page out of the runway handbook and choose a staple garment in a very loud metallic and you'll be sure to turn heads.  These floral jeans would certainly do the trick.

Center:  If you want to make a statement not a shout, try a shimmery yet subdued blazer like the Emilio Pucci one Blake Lively wore in Gossip Girl.  This foil linen one from Anthropologie can fit the more budget-friendly bill.

Right:  Kate Beckinsale provides the perfect example for testing out the metallic waters with her subtle silver eyeshadow.  If you want to try a trend out and see if you feel comfortable, try working it into your look through makeup or accessories.  Between Nars and Stila you can have all the metallic colors you dream of right at your eyelashes.

via Naturalizer

Or check out Naturalizer, where I picked up the flat sandal version of these shiny babies last summer to trek around Europe.  They are amazing!  After breaking my foot, Naturalizer is my go-to brand for shoes because you don't need to sacrifice comfort for beauty!  And at $79 you don't have to break the bank either!

 For Your Home 

via Pottery Barn & Tonic Home



Left:  Mercury is very hot right now, and these antiqued candlesticks can bring glam to any mantel, especially when layered in front of a gilded mirror.  Two metallics for one!  If you're looking for a touch of shimmer without the overwhelming shine, antique and gilded finishes are the perfect way to create understated glitz.



Right:  Tell me you don't love this gold leaf table. With a mirror top and that beautiful graphic design, it's the perfect way to glam up any space!  Because it isn't a visually heavy piece, it can be the subtle detail that plays off a beautifully covered bed, or sit next to a sofa as the perfect spot for your books or a vase full of flowers.



via Houzz



If you're interested in giving your walls some panache, try Benjamin Moore's metallic paints, as mentioned in Sketch 42.  Or try using the same paint color in a matte for the entire wall, with high gloss squares being painted to give that metallic interest to the room like this photo.  Pretty sweet don't you think? 

 



What's your favorite way to add some shimmer
shine to your wardrobe or home?  Found any great
metallic buys lately?  Comment & share!



So Much to Smile About

What a fitting title!  Liz of So Much to Smile About had a fabulous giveaway this week for a $50 gift card to The Limited, and as luck would have it, the winner is yours truly!  I am beyond thankful for this gift card, which honestly couldn't come at a better time.  I am in desperate need of a new suit but lacking in the cash department due to some brand new brakes needed for my car.  I figured staying alive was at least slightly  important...  But thanks to Liz I can do both and will now be checking out The Limited asap.


via So Much to Smile About

If you like to smile, which I know you do, be sure to check out Liz's blog!  A few of my favorite posts are:

 Makeup Brush 101 - For those of us who weren't quite sure of proper brush etiquette.

The White Blazer - Cute & affordable, this girl's style is impeccable. 

October Style Essentials - I loved all her picks for my birthday month.

Style Crush: Rachel Bilson - Totally have a girl crush on her too.

Golden Globe Favorites - Love checking out Hollywood favorites.

I will admit, after Wednesday's post I do feel a little guilty.  But I am taking this as the universe's way of paying me back for working every day this week, even on the holiday.  And who am I to spit in the universe's face?  With that being said, I have decided not to enter anymore blog giveaways for the foreseeable future.  I want everyone else out there to have a better chance of the happy surprises from the blogosphere.  Everyone deserves a good squeak!

Have you ever had an undeniable streak of luck?  Comment and tell me about it!
Have a good weekend!

Monogram Motif

 I uncovered a nifty little J. Crew secret to start your weekend off right!

As I was surfing Nicole Williams' website last week, I discovered when you purchase a tailored shirt, you can get your monogram sewed into the cuff for only $10.  As if J. Crew wasn't already awesome enough... what a steal!  Monogrammed cuffs instantly make you look more put together and refined.  It shows you pay attention to the little things.


via All Things Pink & Girly

  


 

 

via Shop Dabo

But the fun doesn't stop there!  There is a whole Monogram Shop where you can have your initials embroidered into cardigans, shirts, even PJs!  So the next time you go shopping, I say treat yourself.  I know I will!

   

What do you think about monograms?  Do they make you squeak with excitement?
I'd love to know your thoughts!

Nifty Neutrals

By definition, netural means lacking characteristic, but when it comes to interiors and style that is far from the case!  The list of neutrals has been growing, with people beginning to consider deep greens and even animal print as a neutral.  For design purposes, neutrals are the classic, timeless hues that can go with anybody's style, both in clothes and homes.  They set the background to let other elements shine without overpowering.  But what about pairing neutrals with themselves?  Here are a few amazing pairings that certainly don't lack characteristic.

Navy & Gray  These cool tones are such a classic combination.  They remind me of a calm ocean at night, or a cold winter's day (but in a good way!).  It risks becoming a little drab and even depressing so it's best when the colors are really saturated and bright pops of color are brought in, but as a neutral pairing the two really work great together.

EJ Interiors via DecorPad

The pale gray walls and deep blue headboard keep this space looking clean and calming.

via Christina G Photography

Gray suits and navy vests give the groomsmen a classic look with a relaxed twist. This would be perfect for a winter wedding, don't you think?

via Classic Interior Design

These cool watery tones keep this den looking luxurious and inviting. Not to mention, that wallpaper is truly amazing! 




Camel & Black  This is my favorite neutral combo of all.  I get excited just thinking about it!  Cheetah print, Burberry pattern, there's so much wonderful Camack all around!  (tTally made my own word there, just roll with it...)



Stella McCartney via Penny Loves Charlie

  
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via Style Theories

   




White & Cream  I have to admit I used to be completely annoyed by this combination.  (Insert shamed face here...)  I saw it as trying to match something but falling just shy and landing with a weird jumble of color (or in this case, lack of color).  But in the past year or so I have actually started to totally love these two together.  When done right, the creams make a space look luxurious while keeping the clean freshness gained when using white.



via Javabali

That houndstooth couch, seriously?  Can you say SQUEAK?

via Etsy

This baby girl headband is adorable as can be!

via House to Home

Open layout, natural light, and Victorian furniture make this space breathtaking.



Tell me what you think!  Do these pairings make you squeak or snooze?
How do you use neutrals in your style?



Good Morning Sunshine!

Thank you so much for stopping by Just Squeaks!

My name is Katharine and I hope to use this blog as a place to store my ideas, inspiration, and express my many quirks (trust me, there are many).  That being said, most of my posts will center around interior design with some fashion, traveling, music, quotes, and anything else random I find intriguing thrown in.  I've had a passion for interior design for as long as I can remember... always moving around furniture and pretty much living in Ikea, as I was lucky enough to have one just 10 minutes away. I studied Business Management in college (much to my parents' happiness) and immediately after started taking courses in Design at the local community college (much to my happiness).  I am on my slow and steady journey of making my career change from management to interiors so I hope you will join me on the ride!

For a little more about me and the creation of Just Squeaks check out: http://justsqueaks.blogspot.com/p/behind-scenes.html