MOI XOXO

Everywhere, it seems that everyone is going on a safari every month. Animal prints are not only in, they are sophisticated and wonderful to work with. The stereotype against animal prints, are that they lack something in the way of professionalism. I embrace them as these prints are very accessible for anyone wanting to add them to their home decor or wardrobe. The fact of the matter is, these terrific prints are really neutrals in disguise! I wouldn’t use them on an entire wall or dress head to toe, but the tones are generally workable with many other colors such as black, white, tan, red, burgundy, and green. Dramatic, yet tasteful. Another striking use of these prints is in a bedroom. Here you can go a bit wilder with duvet covers, and pillows. Lots of tan and black will give this look a feel of exotic places. Since animal designs have been used in almost every culture at some point in time, the look is old, yet new. Traditional decor can use these touches, as well as contemporary, country, ethnic, you name it! Think of how well the tones go with wood, bamboo, brass, gold, and leather. Even floral prints can look well with an animal print if the colors blend. This decor is not for the faint of heart. The flip side of this is that you can EXPRESS your wilder side with a few touches. Maybe you will decide you are not as timid as you thought! This animal stuff grows on you! Try some prints in small doses and get use to the drama!

Moi xoxo

Greetings from Malibu! I thought this would be a perfect idea to blog about the very item that I happen to be drinking from! I keep a set of these goblets in my travel suit case so that I do not forget them. I’m just not a fan of the plastic drinking cups in hotel rooms or using glasses for outdoor entertaining, especially if children are present. So I stock up on these “looks like glass” beauties! As a playful answer to those tacky snap-together wine glasses, these acrylic & affordable goblets from Murval Paris are perfect to toss in a beach bag for picnics or like Moi, lounging on a deck in front of a pool near the Pacific Ocean! Clear glasses are $7 each, Pink Dots $5 each. www.murval.com

Moi xoxo

You might not know the name, but there is a better than good chance you have dined on one of textile designer, Sandy Chilewich’s woven vinyl place mats as her designs have become quite popular, turning up in new restaurants and interior design shops across the country. These place mats are as practical as they are pretty. They are also taking the world of table top by storm. Sandy doesn’t follow trends and follows her own instincts which is why she is the trend setter she is. The mats look amazing, but I am equally thrilled that they are as tough as vinyl and they clean up with the swipe of a sponge which is good for the planet. Easy care equals green and guilt free when no washing or dry cleaning is involved. They also offer timeless style. These mats work with almost any design style you can think of, from cozy classic to polished modern to bohemian chic. Best part is I know they are going to look as good in ten years as they do now!

Moi xoxo

For years interior designers scoured antiques shops and designer showrooms to furnish their clients’ homes and offices. No more! The internet has changed the way even the most exclusive decorators find everything from French antiques to vintage textiles. I outfitted my Southern California home with mid century pieces like Miles van der Rohe’s table stand and coveted Brno chair, all of which I scored on Ebay.com. I enjoy navigating the virtual garage sales by typing in the designers names into Ebay’s search engine, rather than using vague descriptions like “chair” or “table”. To ensure you are dealing with reputable parties, I recommend you review the seller’s ratings before you bid. The key to finding a treasure on Ebay? Be willing to spruce up a find with new upholstery or a fresh coat of paint!

Another great site to score pieces from the likes of designer Steven Gambrel, is 1stdibs.com This site hooks up buyers with screened dealers in the six major design cities, including Paris and Los Angeles, as well as the Hamptons. Now I can log on to my Mac to find furniture in Paris without having to leave my home. On other sites, 99% of the items hold no interest for me, but on 1stDibs, I always find things that end up giving my home its character.

If antiques or vintage is not your thing, try edhardysf.com for Chinese furnishings and belvedereinc.com for mid century lamps and furnishings.

However, shopping on the Web should not replace a visit to a store. You cannot judge comfort online!

Happy Hunting!

Moi xoxo

Just a quick note, Bloomingdale’s is having their March sale from 3/6-3/22. Great savings on home & new spring arrivals!

Moi xoxo