Home Fashion Tips

'Save Energy, Save on Taxes'

2011-04-02T09:05:00.000-07:00

If you’ve filed your taxes recently, you’ve probably thought how you could earn a tax break from expenses made this year. Well, have you thought about making eco-friendly improvements to your home?

You can earn tax credits of up to 30 percent off of the following fixes if it totals $1,500 or more (just save your receipts):

A new roof using Energy Star roofing materials treated with asphalt and reflective metal. The materials help to reduce air-conditioning costs during the summer.

Skylights installed in the home also qualify, especially if made with a low-emissivity glass.

A water heater could merit a tax credit if has a thermal efficiency of 90 percent.

Other home improvements will keep your heating and cooling costs at bay and will contribute to a healthier living environment:

Have small children in the home that like to crawl on the floors? Replace your home carpeting with eco-friendly carpet squares from companies like Shaw Carpet. Unlike old carpeting that emits formaldehyde and could cause health problems, the carpet squares are made from recycled materials and use non-toxic dyes. And when you decide to change the carpeting, you can send the old carpeting back to the manufacturer for recycling.

Reducing energy loss in your home is also as easy as getting a new set of curtains. No, literally. Thermal insulated blackout curtains are proven to cut back on window-related energy loss. And there’s the added bonus: The curtains block out unwanted ultraviolet rays and reduce noise from outside.

While it’s not made from recycled materials, a bed set made from organic cotton is far more eco-friendly than those old bed covers made with synthetic fibers. A bed set made from 100 percent organic cotton means that its cotton was grown free from chemical pesticides and fertilizers. And no unnatural dyes were used – so you can rest easily.

'Easter Decorating Crafts'

2011-03-29T18:20:00.000-07:00

With Easter only a few weeks away, it has me wondering: Have you got all your bunnies in check?

I’m referring to chocolate bunnies, sugar marshmallow bunnies, stuffed toy bunnies and even real bunnies if it will make your Easter weekend one to remember.

And when you’re done “huntin’ for wabbits”, check out these two Easter decorating projects you can do with the kids:

Candy Flower Cups

Have the children make daffodil candy cups to welcome guests to the Easter festivities. This quick-and-easy craft project requires card stock, baking cups and jellybeans. Look for card stock, baking cups and jellybeans in colors like orange and yellow.
Cut out a daffodil shape from the card stock and repeat this for as many daffodil candy cups as you’d like to make.
Have the children fill the baking cups with candy.
Glue the bottom of the baking cup to the center of the daffodil cutout.
Place on top of countertops, use as table settings, or even use to lead the kids to the next scavenger hunt clue.
Alternate Option: Not a fan of daffodils? Make tulips instead. Opt for purple and pink colored card stock and jelly beans in soft, pastel colors.

Eggshell Easter Ornaments

Easter egg ornaments can be hung from trees and bushes outside, or indoors from light fixtures and bouquets of flowers.

Instead of boiling the eggs, empty out the egg yourself by poking a hole in it with a needle. Leave the needle instead the egg – the pearly end of the needle will mark the bottom of the ornament.
If you have older children - the eggshells are far to sensitive for small children's hands - have them dye and embellish the eggshells with ribbon and trimmings.
Once decorated, take some ribbon and fold it in half.
Poke a pin through the two ends of the ribbon and secure to the top of the egg. This will act as the ornament hook.

-S. Gonzalez

*Photo courtesy of marthastewart.com

'London Pattern Play'

2011-03-27T07:58:00.000-07:00

Crosby Street Hotel

Hoteliers Tim and Kit Kemp like to treat their guests to the Crosby Street Hotel in Soho to floor-to-ceiling windows, a mishmash of modern prints, and English amenities that consist of a drawing room for afternoon tea.

See how the couple plays with pattern in their own London townhouse – with contemporary artwork in bold colors and antique furniture upholstered in eye-catching prints.

Living Room

Fabric, texture and artwork draw guests to the couple’s living room. Hanging above the mantel is a lively painting created by English textile artist Anna Raymond. On opposite sides of the vibrant artwork are antique Venetian mirrors, its tarnished glass adding to the room’s eclectic charm.

Japanese fashion designer Akira Minagawa designed the sofa and window recesses in charming floral and stripe prints. Silver accents and fresh white flowers play down the prints.

Guest Room

A black-and-white toile de Jouy by Brunschwig & Fils is the same print used for the guest bed’s canopy, pillow and bedding. A white chair and foot stool flank either side of the wrought iron day bed. The French toile gets a modern update with a zebra print area rug. (Try this yourself with toile bedding and a faux fur rug.)

Why the overload of black-and-white pairings works: An arrangement of colorful wild flowers breaks of the dichromatic scheme with a punch of color.

Library

In the library, the Kemps again uses color to brighten up the somber wood furnishings and collection of books. Mirrors enlarge the space. A gold mirror, which dates to 18th century France, reflects punchy prints by Joe Tilson hanging on an opposite wall. Bold color reappears in an armchair by George Smith and chairs in contrasting prints. Fresh cut flowers again bring some color to an antique armoire.

Sun room

The Kemp’s sun room also doubles as a dining room, allowing guests a front row seat to the view outside. The floor-to-ceiling windows, similar in style to the couple’s hotel rooms, allow natural sunlight to pour into the space. A chunky wooden table serves as the centerpiece, accented by antique wing chairs upholstered in bright Bennison fabric. In keeping with the simple dining room table, the light fixture by Kevin Reilly is composed of candles assembled along a glass wreath.

-S. Gonzalez

*Photos courtesy of elle.com

'Spring Forward'

2011-03-21T20:31:00.000-07:00

Spring forward with greater savings at Décor Innovation. From now until April 14, save up to 70% select items like quilted covers, linen curtains and curtain rods.

Starting at 15% Off:

Sheer, check grommet curtains in white

New arrivals consist of airy and light curtains in varying textures just in time for this season.The check grommet curtains are perhaps my no.1 choice, for its subtle departure from the usual sheer solid curtains. Also sheer, these curtains feature ruching with an all-over check pattern in the same color. The end result: a simple and no-fuss way to update your windows.

Check out the faux linen and faux flax curtains, also with interesting texture.

Starting at 20% Off:

A curtain double-rod in antique pewter

You’re going to need a set of curtain rods to accompany the set of faux linen curtains in your shopping cart. Classic and timeless, the Hampton and Windsor style curtain rods are now $16 off. Choose between a cool or warm finish; the rods are available in either antique pewter or bronze.

The double rod is also a good choice for those who like to have a valence with their curtains. Hang fabric from the top rod and still be able to draw your curtains thanks to the bottom rod.

Starting at 60% Off:

Coverlets in springtime colors

With the spring come warmer temperatures and less need for heavy, wintry duvets. You’ll find yourself peeling away the layers on your bed. Cool springtime hues of blue, green and yellow will replace the wintry mix of olive green, maroon and navy shades. But don’t forget that springtime does it have its chilly nights too and you’ll need some extra bed coverage.

A quilted bed cover set in shades of lavender, pink, blue and yellow will brighten things up. The set includes a quilted coverlet to throw on your bed and two shams. On sale for $19.99 (retail price $59.99), the coverlet and shams will not only keep you warm, but you keep you in the springtime spirit.

-S. Gonzalez

*Photos courtesy of decorinnovation.com

'Get Lucky'

2011-03-17T11:39:00.000-07:00

Mini pots of gold and four-leaf clover posters are child’s play when it comes to decorating for St. Patrick’s Day. Opt for subtle, but straightforward touches to give your home a little luck from the Irish.

St. Patty's Day napkin rings

Before settling down to a St. Patty’s meal of corned beef and cabbage, handout napkin-wrapped silverware with very own Irish napkin rings (see top image). Wrap cording or green ribbon around the napkins. Finish with a real (or artificial) shamrock leaf.

Create your own Celtic wall art with the help of stencils. Celtic designs can be distinguished by its intricate knot work, crosses, spirals and interlacing. Painting onto watercolor paper, apply the craft paint to the stencil. Once finished and dried, mount the watercolor paper over card stock to display. Note: This is a great after-school craft idea for the kids.

Wrap your solid candles in green ribbon, securing with decorative pins that you can take out later.

St. Patty's centerpiece with green ornaments

It’s time to bring out any/all green vases or pots. Arrange together for a quick centerpiece or scatter about the house. Have your own potted shamrocks in pots/jars/bowls bring some more luck your way. Ask your local greenhouse to provide you with Oxalis plants (aka shamrocks) and Bells of Ireland (long, green plants that also represent luck).

Use green marbles or better yet, green holiday ornaments to fill up a clear glass vase (see center).

You know what they say, “A [green] apple a day keeps the doctor away.”

Green foliage pillows

Time to bring out all your green household accessories: curtains, pillows, rugs, etc. Or look for such items as solid blackout curtains and print pillows in green hues. The green accessories will further accentuate your already Irish-inspired environs.

-S. Gonzalez

*Photos courtesy of bhg.com; decorinnovation.com

'Welcome to the Man Cave'

2011-03-14T19:49:00.000-07:00

If you have the ultimate man’s man as a husband or boyfriend, you’ve probably heard the phrase “Man Cave” thrown around a few times. But how does the typical bachelor pad/husband’s den suddenly become worthy of Man Cave status?

A quick look at some of DIY Network’s best Man Caves will explain:

Man Cave no. 1

Entertainment in the form of sports and/or movie watching is key to any Man Cave. Flat-screen televisions in HD, the bigger the better, will do the trick. The television is the center of every Man Cave. Please note: A Man Cave is not only the place where the man can unwind and relax, but also serve as a one-stop spot to host all his male friends.

Man Cave no. 2

Next up on the Man Cave priority list is seating. How else are you going to watch the game on the big screen? Large leather couches are preferred over other styles for the following reasons: the look is masculine, resistant to spills, and comfortable. If a leather couch is not in the Man Cave works, expect the couches and ottoman to be in a neutral hue and anything but floral.

In between bouts of football and episodes of “The Office,” there must always be alternative forms of amusement. Darts, video games, guitar hero, dominoes, a poker table, beer pong – you name it, at least one of these must be found somewhere in a modern Man Cave. This is because the party is just beginning.

Man Cave no. 3

No pinks or yellows are to be found in a Man Cave. After all, why do you think it’s called a cave? Wood accents, neutral shades of beige or brown, or shades of blue and black will set the tone. Emphasis is creating that dark, moody sort of brooding only a man would appreciate. Lighting and furniture accents follow the same pattern. Anything that yells “manly” can also be incorporated into a Man Cave: sporting equipment, decorative sports jerseys, movie posters, etc.

So, is your hubby’s “Men Only” lair worthy of Man Cave status? You decide.

-S. Gonzalez

*Photos courtesy of diynetwork.com

'Springtime Classics cont.'

2011-03-12T18:58:00.000-08:00

Before I get distracted by yet another sale, let me return to my springtime essentials list. From Breton striped shirts, pleated skirts and chambray button-downs, turn your clocks forward with the help of some key spring wardrobe basics.

Jules et Jim

If you’ve ever seen the iconic film “Jules et Jim” in French class, you might have seen the delicious Jeanne Moreau (the object of affection between characters Jules and Jim) donning a striped shirt. The classic shirt hails back to Bretagne (aka Brittany), the northwest province of France and region known for its maritime trade. Sailors from Brittany could often be distinguished by their uniform – which consisted of a striped navy shirt.

Nowadays, the Breton classic can be layered over a delicate feminine skirt, or over a pair of boyfriend jeans depending on the occasion. As for me, I might wear a Breton striped sweater over a collared, button-down shirt with some trousers and a comfy pair of Oxford shoes.

Pleated skirt as seen during NYC Fashion Week

The pleated skirt is no longer a thing of your private school past. Thank the hit series “Gossip Girl” or the catwalk revival of the fifties for its return. Printed and short, it makes a flirty addition to dinner with the boyfriend or hubby. Long and solid, it is an understated foundation piece to go with a print blouse (see photo above) or fitted cardigan. Style tip: Pair this schoolgirl classic with a pair of lace-up booties and a long, light knit sweater, leaving just the ends of the skirt showing.

Chambray shirt at Madewell

Make the most of the working class chambray shirt. Never have I been able to pair one single shirt with so many looks: over trousers; worn loose with jeans; over a simple dress; tucked into a floral skirt; with a T-shirt and pants. Its endless possibilities are what make the chambray shirt such a hit this season. I imagine it’ll be here to stay for at least a few more.

-S. Gonzalez

*Photos courtesy of iseestripes.blogspot.com; elle.com; madewell.com

'Insider Decor Tips: Curtains'

2011-03-04T14:07:00.000-08:00

Starting now until March 17, everything at Décor Innovation is 10%!

This means that now you can satisfy all your curtain needs, with styles that range from voile and damask to quilted and solid. Far from window draping, consider using your new curtains in the following different ways:

Well before there were doors, there were curtains. Proving that tradition rivals modernity, use curtains to replace doorways in your home. The curtains add a dash of Old World luxury. Opt for blackout curtains if you’re looking to drown out noise and better insulate the room. Switch to sheer voile curtains during the warmer months for a hint of whimsical.

Make the best use out of your living space – curtains transform that small nook or unwanted closet into a home office. Fit curtains to close off the space. Install shelving (if not already there) to hold all of your office supplies. Add an office chair and small desk for your computer or laptop. Draw the curtains and you have your own private home office.

Hide unpleasant items or spaces with the use of a curtain. A curtain installed in a garage (see above) allows the homeowner to keep a storage area that doesn’t prove an eyesore. By drawing the curtains shut, the space instantly becomes its own workshop. Instantly, the space feels more spacious and neat.

For those who live in a studio or small apartment space, making sure that guests make the distinction between bedroom and living room is often the biggest obstacle. Unless you’re living in a freshman dormitory, few people want their guests using their queen-sized bed for a sofa. A curtain can resolve this problem easily by dividing the room and creating a sense of privacy.

Curtains allow you to make double usage of your downstairs den/basement. Keep your washer and dryer, in addition to pending laundry, away from visitors’ eyes with the help of curtains. If you have children that like to play in the den, curtains can hide away an unsightly stash of toys.

Shop for new curtains at Décor Innovation and with promocode DECOR10, receive 10% off your entire purchase.

-S. Gonzalez

*Photos courtesy of loftandcottage.blogspot.com; clippings.gardenweb.com; stagetecture.com; ideasforyourbedroom.com

'Springtime Classics'

2011-02-28T17:57:00.000-08:00

The pummeling wind and hurling rain this morning on my trip to Brooklyn for a fashion shoot served as reminded me of several things:

It’s likely the East Coast has seen the last of snow;

Better start preparing for cold rain instead;

An umbrella is altogether useless in the Big Apple.

This leads to me the final conclusion that the time is now to fully stock your wardrobe with spring essentials. But what exactly do I need, you ask? Here is my list of must-have items that every spring wardrobe should not do without:

Trench Coat

Breakfast at Tiffany's

Of course, I revert to Audrey Hepburn in the film “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” in which the character shares a kiss with character Paul Varjak (George Peppard) in the pouring rain. Holly Golightly clutches her cat as she and Varjak, the two characters both wearing trench coats, share a passionate cinematic kiss.

Button-Up Dress

The Great Gatsby

Find yourself a light and feminine dress with buttons to make everyone think you are as sweet as Daisy Buchanan, or as sweet as the character would like others to believe in The Great Gatsby. For spring, a simple button-up dress can be worn various ways depending on your mood and the weather: with tights and knee-length boots, under a sweater vest or cashmere cardigan, with a statement necklace and long scarf. The list goes on.

Leather Skirt

Leather Escada skirt

Whether inspired by the urban West or punk rock, the leather skirt is no longer an essential fall-winter item. Designers like DSquared2, Geren Ford, Gryphon and Alexander Wang all have their versions of leather skirts and bottoms. Paired with a silk button-down top or a tank top, a leather skirt makes the transition from conference calls in the office to last call at the best rooftop bar in town. Lately, I’ve had my sights set on a brown leather skirt by See by Chloe.

For more spring-summer essentials, catch my upcoming posts.

-S. Gonzalez

*Photos courtesy of argosibookshop.com; imd.com; bergdorfgoodman.com

'Do It Yourself Mardi Gras Wreath'

2011-02-23T21:16:00.001-08:00

Mardi Gras wreath made from ornaments

Laissez les bons temps rouler!

At least, that’s what I plan to say next week as I head down south to New Orleans to celebrate Mardi Gras. But before I pack my suitcase and skip out of New York City, I need to get myself in the Mardi Gras spirit.

A little decorating will do the trick. For my friends that cannot come away with me for five nights of Hurricanes, Mardia Gras floats, live jazz music and jumbalaya, they can bring New Orleans to them.

Here’s how you can make your own Mardi Gras wreath:

Mardi Gras green wreath made from various

What you will need

A Styrofoam wreath

Fabric/ Ribbon in classic Mardi Gras colors like Purple, Green and Yellow/Gold

Netting and Embellishments such as feathers, boa, little plastic masks, ornaments and beads in Mardi Gras colors

Greening pins or wire for securing the decorations on the wreath

Glue gun

Glue sticks

Wreath hanger

What you do

First begin by wrapping netting and fabric around the Styrofoam wreath/vine wreath. Cover the entire surface area of the wreath. Use the greening pins/wire to hold in place.

Use the glue gun to secure any flyaway fabric and/or netting. For a feathery wreath, try wrapping a Mardi Gras boa around the wreath and glue in place.

Ribbon could also be used to create a wreath rife with bows. Use two ribbon lengths (one long, one short) and tie the end of the longer ribbon with the shorter ribbon in a double knot on the wreath. Move further along the wreath and repeat this same step. Be consistent in the distance between ties. You can do the entire wreath this way, or just create a few ties at the bottom.

If you plan to add embellishments (feathers, beads, Mardi Gras masks, etc.), attach the embellishments onto the wreath using the pins and glue gun.

Let the wreath dry for a few hours.

Attach wreath to wreath hanger and door and enjoy your new Mardi Gras wreath.

-S. Gonzalez

*Photos courtesy of flickr.com

'Fashion Week highlights'

2011-02-21T10:53:00.000-08:00

3.1 Phillip Lim Fall-Winter '11

Another New York Fashion Week has come and gone. As Fashion Week crosses the pond to London, let’s take a look at some of the New York highlights from last week:

The biker babe gets a sophisticated update at 3.1 Phillip Lim (see above). Leather trousers, skirts and leather sleeves on bright blue jumpsuits were Phillip Lim’s interpretation of the working biker babe who, according to the designer, must also attend lunches and cocktail parties. The most noteworthy pieces were: the functional black coat with large pockets, the wool jacket with contrast sleeves, a tunic dress with beaded sleeves and green trousers with contrast trim. At 3.1 Phillip Lim, function and form is always the rule - never the exception.

Alexander Wang Fall-Winter '11

Outerwear is surely the emphasis at the latest Fall-Winter collection of Alexander Wang. How else to keep warm in Wang’s sheer menswear-inspired tops also in the collection? Models imbuing the cool girl attitude at Alexander Wang paraded around in topcoats with fur sleeves, cocoon-like capes and bomber jackets with thick fur trim. Wang continued to incorporate luxury into his collection by creating satin ribbon skirts that peel away in strips, shimmery pants and tailored vests in fur.

Narciso Rodriguez Fall-Winter '11

Narciso Rodriguez gets graphic in a collection inspired by different art forms. There was a fair share of color blocking with two-toned trousers and graphic prints on long shift dresses. Different textures like silk, wool and chiffon were pieced together to create garments that resembled a kind of moving collage. The entire collection was still modern, but with more street bite than ever before seen.

-S. Gonzalez

*Photos courtesy of datapple.com; yougoglencoco.com; mahryska.com

'All George Washingtoned Out'

2011-02-16T20:04:00.000-08:00

It may be the start of President’s Day celebrations, but if you were to flip through my wallet don’t be surprised to find only first president George Washington.

Yes, that’s right. All I have in my wallet are $1 bills. I’d be lucky if I had a $5 bill imprinted with the face of Abraham Lincoln. A $10 bill with Alexander Hamilton’s face? Not this month.

Money is tight. Luckily, Décor Innovation has select merchandise marked 25-50% off until March 2.

Pinch Pleat Curtains = 50% off

Who said the romance had to end simply because Valentine’s Day is finished? These sweeping pinch pleat curtains will leave a great impression thanks to its use of curtain rings. Note: The larger the ring, the better the curtain will fall to the bottom floor and be able to drape over the sides of a sofa or chair.

The curtains also heat things up by keeping out the cold thanks to its thermal, blackout abilities. The curtains, now $34.99 a pair, are available in classic neutrals like burgundy, chocolate, black and beige.

Organic Baby = 25% off

Every good parent wants what is best for their child. They want baby clothes that will keep their baby warm without irritating their soft, sensitive skin. Now there are organic cotton products just for your infant and all 25% off: receiving blankets, newborn bodysuits, onesies, mittens and even crib sheets.

Not a parent? I’ve gifted several sets to my cousins and boss with young infants, always with rave reviews. The baby might not be able to say “thank you,” but the lucky mom and dad will.

Faux Fur Blankets = 25% off

Throw this one for size! Select faux fur throws like wild cat, cheetah and giraffe are 25% off!

I never go anywhere without my faux fur throw. I’m not kidding. I take the throw along for ride during cross-country road trips; to football tailgates in the fall; and now in the coldest month of the year, I lay the throw over my duvet for when I go to sleep at night. Plush and warm, a faux fur throw in your favorite animal print is a wonderful investment piece.

-S. Gonzalez

*Photos courtesy of decorinnovation.com

'Old World Glam'

2011-02-14T11:50:00.000-08:00

Vintage style anyone?

People spend a fortune trying to inject the kind of vintage glamour you might find in a Parisian flat situated near Montparnasse.

There's no reason to.

Vintage glamour is easy as sifting through a garage sale for a $30 wrought iron sofa and adding new cushions. It beats finding a used sofa and reupholstering. The homeowner (see photo above), in this particular case, placed a serving tray on top of a used an industrial trolley as a mobile coffee table.

I know that I’ve suggested this before, but incorporate vases of different shapes and sizes in your home. Apothecary jars are not only good for storing jam, but for holding flowers and little odds and ends.

Discovered at Better Homes & Garden, I think I might take this idea home. Use chalkboard paint to write messages on your refrigerator doors in response to family photos.

Old World become New World love

Romance comes sweeping in the use of Old World draping technique (see photo above). The curtain rods are positioned higher than the window panels and hang loosely from hooks strung onto the rod. The mega-long curtains, edged in ruffles, fall gracefully over a slip-covered sofa. An arrangement in the center balances the look of the drapes.

Bathroom gone vintage

I personally admire styling that looks effortless. And in the case of this bathroom, vintage glamour is achieved by using a beaten up wood table, birdbath to hold jewelry, flowers in a glass jar and free-standing mirror. The arrangement is so nonchalant, one would wonder how long it took the designer to select and arrange all the pieces.

Use old lockers bought at a thrift store to hold groceries in the kitchen.

From old hutch to living room centerpiece

If you’re lucky enough to find an old hutch in good condition, make it a centerpiece to your living room. Throw on some blue paint and you now have an antique piece to show off your collection of plates and silverware.

When it comes to vintage glamour, who needs a Parisian flat? With an expert eye for style and finding a good bargain , you are already halfway there.

-S. Gonzalez

*Photos courtesy of bhg.com

'A Baby Is Born'

2011-02-09T18:33:00.000-08:00

Sneak Peak of the FW11 Rachel Zoe Collection

For the pregnant Rachel Zoe, the baby boy expected to be born in March will mark only one of the new additions to change the celebrity stylists’ life.

Come Fall-Winter ’11, expect to find Zoe’s first eponymous contemporary collection in stores like Nordstrom, Bergdorf Goodman, Bloomingdale’s and Neiman Marcus. Reports say that Zoe, unable to meet with buyers and editors during New York because of her pregnancy, scheduled an early preview in January.

Take Two with Model Nell Rebowe

Find [hotos of the entire line now on style.com and others like wwd.com, fashionista.com, etc.

With so much of Hollywood already with its own fashion labels, it’s a wonder why a stylist already with her hand in the fashion cookie jar did not create a fashion line earlier. Zoe told instyle.com: “I’ve been subconsciously building this collection in my mind for a long time.”

Perhaps like celebrity-turned-designer Victoria Beckham (not to make comparisons), the timing and collection needed to be right. One glimpse of the Rachel Zoe collection and any fashion enthusiast will admit it was worth the delay.

While there is a tinge of 70s references, the collection is not entirely comprised of long, bohemian dresses infused with disco glam. Not like most fans and followers would think, according to Zoe.

The collection does break some of the preconceived notions of her style of dress, which is refreshing.

Third's a Charm with Romantic Ruffles

In the collection, you will find the following well-cut and on-trend pieces: tailored pantsuits with a Yves Saint Laurent reminiscent le smoking jacket; faux fur vest; military jackets; silk blouses with bows; camel jumpsuit; romantic ruffle skirts; and a camel cape with a fold-over neckline. My personal favorites include the camel cape, faux fur trim coat and tapered trousers.

Fellow model Nell Rebowe (who I had the pleasure to work with on a shoot last September) and Caroline Deisler and Georgie Badiel sported the various looks.

Check out the collection and let me know whether you think these creations were blessings or mishaps.

-S. Gonzalez

'Introducing The Conscious Collection'

2011-02-06T19:11:00.000-08:00

The Conscious Collection at H&M

Hennes and Mauritz isn’t likely to make a promise that it can’t keep.

The fast-fashion pledged to only use sustainable cotton that is either organic-grown or recycled by 2010. The Conscious Collection set to launch April 14 is one of H&M’s first steps in showing its commitment to sustainability and the environment.

H&M Head of Design Ann-Sofie Johansson told the Examiner: “It’s not just about organic cotton anymore, the possibilities for creating a complete fashion statement with eco-smarter materials are huge now.”

The collection is a spring line of apparel for men, women and children made from organic cotton, organic linen, Tencel and recycled polyester. Minimal and white, the womenswear collection features romantic accents such as lace trim, frills and draping. Spring wardrobe essentials include maxi-length skirts, blazers and pleated trousers in sharp, tailored cuts.

It has received solid good reviews from critics that claim the styles feel as good as it looks. High-waisted bloomers with scalloped hems, white dresses with broderie anglaise for sleeves, and eyelet top can be easily dressed down for a casual picnic with friends or up with the use of accessories for rooftop cocktails in the summer.

For men, the styles are less romantic and more clean cut. Two-button blazers, casual tees, and tailored trousers in an all-white palette are what’s in store for the H&M man.

And with budget-conscious prices set from $10 to $60, the collection stays in line with the usual H&M price point.

My thoughts? I think the collection will generate most of its sales not so much for its eco-friendliness, but for its style and affordable prices. Although, I cannot say whether I'd purchase a piece from the collection just yet - only until I get to weigh in and touch the fabric myself.

Photographer Sölve Sundsbo (see photos) shot the advertising campaign with models Natasha Poly, Abbey Lee Kershaw, Ben Hill and Clément Chabernaud.

-S. Gonzalez

*Photos courtesy of H&M

'Spring Pick-Me Up'

2011-02-03T18:22:00.000-08:00

Chase those winter blues away by welcoming an early spring in your decor

Punxsutawny Phil may have predicted an early spring this year on Groundhog’s Day, but I’d be hard-pressed to find a believer on the East Coast.

Wintry mixes of ice and rain, gray skies and the usual cold blasts of wind – we’ve seen it all and been left wondering, “When is it going to end?” I’m already in desperate need of retail therapy.

The pick-me-up is necessary on all fronts: For my wardrobe, I would like a floral print skirt that can go from espresso at the office to cocktails at the bar. At home, I would like to introduce new prints and accents to my walls and furnishings in the spirit of the new season.

Starting with my bedroom, I hope to:

Purchase some unique engraved prints or paintings to hang on my wall. No copies of Van Gogh’s Starry Night, please. Either in visiting local art galleries and art schools (art instructors are typically working artists in their own rite), I might be able to snag some one-of-a-kind pieces. Plus, contributing to the arts is always to be commended.

Upholstered bench strikes contrast with bedding

I have long been in need of an upholstered bench to sit in front of my bed. Most of the apparel and books/important papers end up on my bed or futon nearby. The contrasting fabric on the bench would perk up the look of my quilted duvet cover and throw pillows.

Do not underestimate the power of a pillow in a fresh spring color decorated with a flourish of swirly floral prints. Or it could be as easy as using spring-friendly fabrics, like linen pillows. It’s an instant, inexpensive way to brighten up your bedspread and chaise. I like to do a fair amount of mismatching of pillows to bring even more contrast to the room.

Summon spring with linen print pillows

Double rods on the windows will allow me to drape sheer draperies over my existing blackout curtains. I often look to the fabric store to procure these draperies since it will be used only as an accent piece. I prefer to have them cut at the same length or longer than my hanging curtains, so they gather on the floor.

Maybe all my spring shopping and decorating will help Punxsutawny Phil’s prediction hold true.

-S. Gonzalez

*Photos courtesy of redbookmag.com; potterybarn.com

'Super Bowl Throwdown'

2011-01-31T20:51:00.000-08:00

Creative Super Bowl centerpiece

Depending on who you ask, Super Bowl Sunday may be the only other day in February to hold lesser or greater value than Valentine’s Day. It may even depend on which teams are your personal favorites – this year, the Green Bay Packers and Pittsburgh Steelers battle it up for Super Bowl XLV Champion title.

However important the day might be, there’s a good chance you’ve already thought about your plans for this Sunday’s game.

Hosting your own party, are we? Or are you attending one yourself?

Whatever it may be, make sure to help out in the decorating department in between deciding whether to order pizza or wings.

Balloons

Except this isn’t a birthday party – make sure to pick balloons in the colors of the two Super Bowl teams. Since I’m neither a Packers or Steelers fan, I would be diplomatic in my use of black, yellow and green. A few special “Super Bowl XLV” balloons make a nice final touch.

Door Decorations and Posters

Let your friends know where the party will be centrally located with the use of decorative hangings for your doors and stairways. If I like my guests to only mingle in the dining room and kitchen areas, I typically decorate only these areas.

Centerpieces

Accent your table of wings, pizza, chips and salsa with a centerpiece of your own creation. Incorporate some live grass and figurines to create your own home field advantage (see abov photo). Or keep it simple with some toy footballs and flowers.

First down? Have a shot.

Decorative party bowls

Football-shaped dishes for snacks, Super Bowl XLV plastic cups and even “First Down” shot glasses make a great addition to the Super Bowl watching. Note: If you plan on using Super Bowl shot glasses, keep an eye on the drinking games so that it doesn’t get too out of hand.

Lawn Decorations

Let your guests know where to find the party with covers to put on the door, lawn decorations, or flag.

Team Memorabilia

And finally, it’s always nice to have an extra jersey or team hat on hand for guests that arrive and are not in gear. Have them choose their ally and let the game begin.

-S. Gonzalez

*Photo courtesy of mustloveweddings.com; partycity.com