Not Too Shabby

I have been a long-time fan of Rachel Ashwell and her Shabby Chic world. I must have purchased my first book of hers in the early '90s and have not looked back since. To my delight and that of countless other fans, she has just released her seventh tome, Shabby Chic Inspirations and Beautiful Spaces, which I pre-ordered and received in the mail a few days ago. As I expected, it's filled with inspirational eye candy - this time with a slightly smokier colour palette and more raw edge than in the past. It's encouraging to see that even the most steadfast artists evolve over time, while still remaining true to their authenticity.


Here are just a few pages scattered throughout this illustrious coffee table-sized volume. The above photo, in true Ashwell style, is of her own bedroom at a temporary apartment she rented in Notting Hill. Below is none other than Sharon and Ozzy Osbourne's dining room! To die for!



A beautiful mess.


I love the timeworn details of this tattered armchair and cracked mug.



And in my true form, I had to jump up immediately and add a few more shabby touches to my own home. Here is the loveliest lavender silk blouse I have ever seen, which I got at a thrift store last week for a song.


Paper honeycomb bells and vintage millinery flowers grace the corners of a cabinet and mirror.



This floral porcelain looks like icing on a cake to me!


And now for some new jewelry designs I created this week, coming this evening to my Etsy shoppe. Several new pairs of earrings...


These feature vintage rhinestone findings, brilliant labradorite briolettes and sterling silver medals.




Paris souvenir bracelet links are repurposed with creamy pearls and elegant drops of pave-set rhinestones.



And I think Rachel Ashwell herself might approve of these pink and light green enamel floral findings, complemented by vintage rhinestone disco balls, flourite and sterling silver medals.




These sweet earrings, with vintage souvenir bracelet links, pink tourmaline, and silver and rosary chains, remind me of my recent 'holiday in paris'.





Finally, today I am introducing the first piece in my new 'pret a porter' collection. This will be an affordably-priced line of jewelry that will feature simpler designs and occasionally reproduction elements. I want to offer something for everyone! :)


Despite its friendly price tag, this 'royal crown' necklace is fit for a queen!




Thank you, Rachel Ashwell, for providing so many of us with your continued inspiration. I'll leave you, dear readers, with these parting words, which I wish for all of you...

Parisian Touches

With my upcoming holiday in Paris just a few weeks away, I've been getting in the spirit by sprinkling petit French touches around ma maison. Kitchy though they may be, it's fun to see souvenirs from your favourite places as a reminder of happy travels.


French toile, of course, never goes out of style!



I should really brush up on my conversational French and fashion histoire before my trip!


And I mustn't leave home without my map of this beautiful city!



A portrait of Marie Antoinette is always in good taste. :)


And most of you know how I love to collect turn-of-the-century French postcards!



I found this sparkly snow globe the last time I was in Paris - nearly eight years ago.


And now for the latest piece to come out of my jewelry studio, I call this one 'favourite treasures' and wanted it to feel like a collection of keepsakes someone might have gathered over the years.


This gold-filled heart-shaped locket can easily be removed and your own 'treasure' added for a different look.


And the necklace can be worn long and lean or asymetrically. The length is also adjustable from 15 to 18 inches. I just love the versatility of this piece!




Now if you'll excuse moi, I'm going to enjoy a fresh baguette.



Bon apetit! :)

It's in the Details

I've heard both expressions that 'God is in the details' and 'The devil is in the details'. Whichever philosphy you subscribe to, there's no denying that details are what make something special, and a house a home. Today I wanted to share some of the little things that make me happy when I look around my own nest.

Here are some sparkling vintage jewels and cameos, just waiting to be upcycled!


A peek at my craft cubbies where I store paints, spools of ribbon, and greeting cards I've made. I love seeing all the sweet colours.




1950s baubles that I'll probably never take apart!


A teacup with my inital and grandma's silverware are elevated to art in a pedestal bowl on the dining table.



Pops of colour cheer up my mostly-white palette in the form of vintage pillows and festooning on a hanging paper cone I made a couple of years ago.




Velvet and rhinestones!


Brushes in my art studio remind me of my goal to play more with paint!


Rather than hiding this stack of vintage dishes in the kitchen cabinet, I keep them out as though I'll be having an improptu tea party at any moment!


Antique photographs and cards from friends add life to a wall shelf.


I also love old mirrors to bounce the light around my apartment!



For a bit more whimsy, Venus de Milo wears a Marie Antoinette necklace!



I hope you enjoyed seeing these little details as much as I do every day! Thank you for stopping by! :)