CSN Finds + GIVEAWAY!

Ya'll know how I love my one-stop-shops! Who doesn't?! My current list is long and includes all sorts of things. So, I headed over to CSN to find everything I need!
First up: Counter Stools for the M's. Right now they have stools at the kitchen island that take up too much space. What they need is a couple of stools that are backless and tuck right under the counter. I'm thinking something like these:

Next: China Cabinet for the H's. They are redoing their formal dining room. The "vision" is black, white and grey and I think they've settled on an antique white china cabinet. One of these might work:

After That: a NEW sofa for Brother. I've always hated his sofa set. It's comfortable but it isn't attractive. During my last visit, I managed to accidently break it. I really promise it wasn't intentional but when I regained my breath from laughing so hard, the first thing out of my mouth was "I'm not even SORRY!!". Good thing he is undergoing a complete remodel and needs new everything! What do you think of this one, Bubba?

Lastly: Something fun for me! I found these great mirrors at The Big Flea antique show last weekend that would have been perfect to go over the nightstands in the Master. But, the guy wouldn't bargain and so I walked away. They look very similar to this beauty!

And I couldn't stop at just ONE thing I wanted for myself. I am a shopaholic, afterall. So here are a few other things on my Lust-List (or maybe Christmas wishlist?...*hint hint, wink wink*)

This grey Fallon rug goes with everything! Just need to decide which room to use it. 

And these Safavieh chairs will be around my dining room table some day...they WILL... 

And just in case there is something YOU want from CSN, we're doing a GIVEAWAY!! (City Southern's FIRST giveaway to be exact!) $35 good at any of their 200+ online stores! Want to know how to enter? It's easy!
1. Be a blog follower through Google or NetworkedBlogs
2. Leave a comment on this blog post
3. Check back on Friday November 19 to see if you won!

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Congratulations to the winner! Random.org selected for me and came up with number SIX. Sixty-Fifth-Avenue, you're the big winner! Be sure to let me know what email to have the gift certificate sent to  (city.southern -at- yahoo)

Pattern Pattern

 So, yes - I have admitted it before - I am dying to use Kelly Wearstler's Imperial Trellis print somewhere in my house. I thought I had decided ro just wait and use it for a powder room wallpaper project in the future.

Well, I'm working on a project. A reupholstery project and I need fabric for it. I thought I was set on a black and white chevron pattern (and can I just say I was super happy with the price too - $7.95 a yard!!) but the hubster gave it a big thumbs down. I don't know why I listened to him. Anyway, I started looking at other fabric choices and before I knew it, I had it narrowed down to 5 choices. One was the F Schumacher fabric (above) and the other three are by Duralee and Robert Allen seen below.

The 5th fabric was another chevron type pattern that I didn't post but is anyone else noticing a pattern here? LITERALLY. I didn't do that on purpose I swear. Why can't I get this pattern out of my head?? Guess I'll just have to use it and get it overwith. Sometimes the only way to cure an obsession is to indulge. Hopefully I can make it downtown sometime this week to the designer showroom and pick up a few yards for my project. Any thoughts on which one I should use?? Stay tuned for a post on the finished product!!

PS - All images are from Inside Fabric because it is a totally amazing website with a totally amazing sister site: Inside Avenue. They are both part of Inside Stores LLC and you should check them BOTH out. kthx.

Lucite Lust for Less

After my Lovely Lucite post from yesterday, I thought I'd follow up with a Lust for Less on the topic. I don't know if you've ever come accross Iomoi, but you are definitely missing out if you haven't!
I have wanted one of their Lucite trays for the longest time.



 I would love this pattern (perhaps I'm drawn to the Auburn colors??...):



Do you see how BOTH sides are decorated?! I love that!
It's so hard to pick just one! I also like these patterns:

Sure you can get a Lucite tray that won't break the bank but these are handmade and come in the most delicious patterns. There are 3 sizes to choose from and you can pick clear lucite or tortoise lucite. Prices range from $100 up to $995.

Good thing there is this Dabney Lee tray!

Although there are not nearly as many patterns to select from, you can customize your tray and there are mutliple styles of monograms and name plates to choose from.
The tray measures 11"x17" (the middle Iomoi size) for just $130 and is available all over.
Try The Well Appointed House or Rock Paper Scissors

UPDATE:
PS - If you just want the tray without the pretty design at the bottom, try CB2 for only $34.95!

Lovely Lucite

If I had to describe my personal style I would say it is: Mostly classic. Traditional with a touch of contemporary. A little galmour. Sophisticated. Trendy but also timeless. Clean Lines. Coordinated but not matchy-matchy. Somewhat unexpected. Whatever terms I use to describe my style, I wouldn't ever call it "modern". BUT, I do like to throw in a modern piece of furniture or accent here and there. One thing that does the trick is LUCITE and it has hit the design world full force.

Who doesn't love a Ghost chair (or two)??

(both images via Decorpad)

I was introduced to Ghost chairs years ago in the wedding business. Everyone either has ghost chairs or chivari chairs at their events these days, but what I'd really love to do at an event is the Lucite Chivari chairs - the best of both worlds! Can you imagine how good these chairs would look in a color-washed room?

When it comes to home decorating, here are just a few of my favorite uses of this lovely lucite:

 Lucite and Brass Coffee table (via Elle Decor)

This lucite coffee table is an unexpected addition to this otherwise contemporary traditional sitting room.

  (photo via Decorpad)

 This version, the peekaboo coffee table, is available at CB2 for a reasonable $249

I love Lonny and I love this trunk used here as a coffee table.

I always love to have coffee table books on display but they take up so much space!

What a great (but expensive) solution - (nearly $3000!)

Luckily, Plexi-Craft has a very close alternative for $377.

 

This desk is gorgeous:

(via Decorpad)

And I have to say these barstools are pure genius.

They are a feature in the room but don't take away from the beauty of the kitchen.

(via Decorpad)

PS - I definitely want these Capiz drum shades (from Oly Studio) too!

So, now you know what I think of Lucite...any thoughts from the peanut gallery?

The Dandelion Patch

I have plenty of *go-to* stores in different categories, but my one-stop-shop for all things stationery happens to be The Dandelion Patch. I am absolutely IN LOVE with my wedding invitations which I got from the Patch.

(image from Sanderon Images Photography)

No need for invitations or stationery? They are also a great go-to for gifts! Baby shower gifts, hostess gifts, birthday gifts, bridesmaid gifts, Fathers' Day gifts, Mothers' Day gifts, and 'just because' gifts. This store is one of my little secret weapons, but I have decided to share it with YOU! The Dandelion Patch started out in Vienna and the Reston Town Center store has been open for several years now. TODAY they are having a Grand Opening Celebration for their newest store in Georgetown. (I think it's a prerequisite to be uberfab if you open up a store in Georgetown!)





And you should also take a peek at Heidi's blog. Heidi Kallett is the owner and brilliant mind behind Dandelion Patch, and all of her employees are just as amazing and helpful.

Alice Lane Giveaway!

I just entered the giveaway over at Alice Lane and you should too!

You can win this gorgeous pillow:

Go here to enter...but hurry, it ends soon!!

The latest addition to my desk at work:

Happy Monday!