Shannon Ables's Blog, page 325
July 15, 2015
Decor Inspiration: White & Dignified
Upon seeing the mirror in the foyer of this home, I was transfixed. A statement in and of itself, the accessories that accompany it need only be few and simple. But when I investigated further I realized the entire home had been redecorated, and it is worth taking a look at.
As a fan of white, clean exterior, it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but I have always been drawn to palette’s that allow the inhabitants to bring the pizzazz. This home is livable, welcoming and will certainly allow its owners to do just that. Enjoy the tour.
DECOR INSPIRATION POSTS FROM THE ARCHIVES:
~French-Inspired Bathroom Remodel
~Ellen Pompeo’s Exquisite Remodel
Source: Amber Interiors
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Word of the Week: No. 10
Click for pronunciation:
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WORDS OF THE WEEK FROM THE ARCHIVES:
Image: (1)
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July 14, 2015
Outfit of the Week: Timeless & Versatile
~Betsey Johnson Ruched Pointe Sheath Dress~
~Via Spiga leather slingback sandal~
~Halston Heritage Leather Shoulder Bag~
~Elizabeth & James Marion D-frame acetate sunglasses~
SHOP THE OUTFIT:
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Style Inspiration: Simple, Chic Taste
Style need not be complicated. Once you discover and gradually hone your signature style as you move through life, owning your style can be tremendously enjoyable. Whether you become an expert on rocking stripes like the woman above or own polka dots as one woman does below, anything will look amazing if you feel confident in your own skin and what you have chosen.
~STYLE INSPIRATION POSTS FROM THE ARCHIVES:
Images: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6)(7)(8) (9) (10) (11)
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July 13, 2015
How to Set Up Your Home Like Luxurious Travel Accommodations
The Simple Sophisticate, episode #45
The gifts of travel are plenty as we are experiencing new food, customs, knowledge and everything in between. Our minds are unable to relax and settle into comfortable habits of who we will meet and how events will unfold, so our energy sources are depleted more frequently and in ways we may not expect. However, for much of the time, adrenaline kicks in as typically we are excited and curious to take as much as possible in on a trip we most likely have been eagerly anticipating.
As I mentioned on last Monday’s podcast, part of the reason I select comfortable, spacious and welcoming accommodations when I travel is due in large part to the restoration I need after having been outside of the hotel or vacation rental which has been exhilarating but often exhausting.
During my last trip to New York City and Seattle, I had the opportunity to stay in two entirely different set-ups, but both offered exactly what I was seeking: comfort and a sense of coming home, security and an opportunity to be restored. But then I began to realize that the details that complete the preferred luxurious living experience while traveling are quite simple, and could easily transfer to our everyday living environment. Why not?
Today I’ll explore 10 ways each of us can set up our homes, our everyday sanctuaries, to offer the splendor of luxurious travel accommodations.
1. Drinking Water Readily Available
Upon walking into my room at the Hotel Ballard in Seattle, rather than have plastic bottles of water available, they set up a simple, chic tray with a glass bottle with stopper filled with crisp water and two stemless wine glasses. Such a simple touch that, as it was refilled each day, allowed for no excuse not to drink water prior to going to bed and upon waking as to keep the body hydrated.
2. Lay out reading material for the next morning
One of my more common Instagram pics is of my reading material that I am either reading or looking forward to reading during the upcoming weekend. Akin to a child on Christmas morning, I genuinely become giddy about the newspapers and magazines that I will be able to pursue through the next morning. Why not treat yourself each morning, or at least on the mornings of the weekend, and have your reading material ready and waiting to be enjoyed?
3. Make the bed like a pro
A few years ago, as well as in TSLL book (Choosing The Simply Luxurious Life: A Modern Woman’s Guide), I demonstrated step-by-step how to make the hotel foot-fold with the flat sheet when making the bed, and now I would like to add one more simple touch that will elevate the appearance of your bed, making it all the more enticing at the end of a long day. Place the European square pillows front and center. Below are a few examples, but rather than putting the European pillows behind the stacked standard pillows, prop them up in front of it. Feel free to put accent pillows or a round 36″ bolster pillow in the front, or not.
4. Stock with plush, soft robes
The Hotel Ballard offered Boca Terry white bathrobes, and I will admit right now, one night I slept in mine as it was so comfortable. Often times hotels will allow you top purchase their robes or at least let you know where you can buy them. I recently spoke to someone who vacationed in NYC and stayed a night at the Plaza Hotel, and they were told by the cleaning staff that they donate the robes after each stay, so feel free to take theirs home. (Always ask first, but who knows, you may just be able to do the same.)
5. Stock luxurious lotions, soaps and hair products
Molton Brown has lately been the brand of choice at the last few places I have stayed, and I can understand why. However, there are many quality products that offer rich lotions and help your skin and hair look their best. Place lotion next to your bed to use on your hands and feet just before bedtime. Place in the shower and next to the sink all the necessary, but just enough of what you need.
6. Have trays available for eating in bed, outside or anywhere else besides the table
A luxury to enjoy when staying in a hotel, especially if it is a business trip and you return exhausted not wanting to step back out into the fray, is to enjoy room service. Always a treat to eat dinner in bed as we don’t do such a thing at home, there is something to be said for having a beautiful tray to serve yourself breakfast or use while you are hosting. Look for unique trays at yard sales and consignment shops as to find the exact size and style you are looking for.
7. Coffee and tea service prepped and ready to enjoy
One of my everyday rituals is tea (in the morning and evening), so if I am staying in a vacation rental I always am hoping for a teapot and if I am staying in a hotel, I am at least looking for tea bags and access to boiling water. At our homes, why not set up a sipping shelf as I talked about a few years ago, stocked and ready with your favorite teas (or coffee), tea strainers, cups and saucers, and whatever else you might need. All ready to go, no matter how little time you have, you will be able to enjoy and relax.
8. Have patience with the details
One of the things I noticed and fell in love with immediately at the apartment I stayed in while visiting New York City was that the resident had styled it precisely to her tastes while still being very welcoming for guests. This takes time. Whether it is a lamp that is chosen to sit atop your side table next to your favorite reading chair or an ottoman sized and situated in the precise location to rest one’s feet after a weary day, even the books on the shelves and the art hanging on the wall, it takes time. Gradually, your home, even if you have to move will have just enough of “you” to feel like a most beckoning sanctuary to return to at the end of the day.
9. A cook’s kitchen
One thing I have realized due to my impending move is that not many of the items in my kitchen shelves go unused. After having edited out the space-fillers that weren’t paying their rent a few years ago, I appreciate how I can step into my kitchen and cook, chop or bake just about anything because I have the tools to do so. Much like decorating a home, this too will take time, but when you are someone like me who likes to cook when you stay in a vacation rental, stepping into a cook’s kitchen is very much appreciated as you feel as though you are somewhat at home.
10. A place to set your keys and purse
A must-have when it comes to buying a home is a foyer that is large enough for at least a console table so that keys can be placed, hooks made available for coats, handbags and leashes and space for quick removal of shoes. For functionality purposes, having such a space relieves the mind of having to remember the necessary accoutrements we need each time we step out the door, but a foyer that is adequately decorated also welcomes us home like an eager puppy – ready to greet us and take the burdens of the day off of our shoulders.
We will always have the opportunity to learn and improve, refine and polish the lives we live, and while decor, such simple ways of doing and decorating may seem trivial, they actually set a very powerful tone. Hotels and vacation rentals make a living by creating spaces that feel like home, and as we know, our homes are much more than a bed and a roof. It truly is all in the details. Details that aren’t all that expensive when we take a closer look.
I hope today you’ve discovered a few tweaks and additions you can make to your own sanctuary to make it all the more inviting when you wake up in the morning or return home each day. And perhaps you’ve experienced additional ideas from your travels that you might want to add, I would love to hear and I know other TSLL readers would as well. Please do share in the comment section. Wishing you a wonderful week.
~If you are traveling to Seattle, I highly recommend the Ballard District’s Hotel Ballard. A beautiful luxury hotel nestled into a quaint, quiet neighborhood full of restaurants, a weekly farmers market, boutiques and a state of the art gym. View the photos below:
~Stoneburner’s for room service will not disappoint as they use organic and local produce. From pizzas to salads to desserts and wine, treat yourself.~
~SIMILAR POSTS FROM THE ARCHIVES YOU MIGHT ENJOY:
~6 Ways to Create a Chic Sanctuary (podcast, episode #7)
~Why Not . . . Become Your Own Decorator?
~Why Not . . . Make Simple Home Touch-Ups?
Petit Plaisir
~The Woman in Gold film starring Helen Mirren and Ryan Reynolds
~View Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I (The Woman in Gold) painting by Gustav Klimt (1907) at the Neue Galerie in New York City. The entire exhibit runs through September 7th, but the painting is on permanent display.
~Adele Bloch-Bauer was the only subject to be painted twice by Gustav Klimt, view Adele Bloch-Bauer II here (on display now at New York’s Museum of Modern Art)
Images: (1) (2) House Beautiful (3) Elle Decor (4) House Beautiful (5) Elle Decor (6)
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July 10, 2015
This & That: No. 166
Book
~Front Roe: How to Be the Leading Lady of Your Own Life by Louise Roe
If you are still struggling to pinpoint your signature style or simply would like more refinement to the style you’ve already cultivated, fashion journalist, TV host and makeup guru, Louise Roe, in her first book offers an abundance of advice. Released just this past April, Roe offers tips and inspiration that not only covers fashion and beauty but establishing a sanctuary and other lifestyle guidance.
~Gardens at First Light by Stacy Bass and Judy Ostrow
Stacy Bass’ book first caught my eye as I was perusing the shelves in New Canaan. I instantly thought of my mother as she has a green thumb times five thousand, and then I began to flip through the images. With more than 200 images captured at daybreak in the gardens in Northeastern America, she captures what I consider to be the best part of the day. Be inspired, find a momentary refuge or pick up as a gift for a friend. You won’t be disappointed.
~My Stylish French Girlfriends by Sharon Santoni
A book to anticipate. On August 1st, blogger Sharon Santoni’s first book My Stylish French Girlfriends will be available to enjoy. Inspired by her blog My French Country Home, Santoni takes readers inside the lives of 20 French women. Discover how they live, shop, work, and play. Without question, I will be picking up a copy.
Decor
~Gramovox Bluetooth Gramophone
As someone who adores her vinyl, I must admit this contraption caught my eye. A statement piece for sure, the retro-esque Gramovox allows your MP3 files to be heard throughout your house without modern looking devices to be seen. Bluetooth enabled, you may have just found a must-have decor item to add to your home.
Shopping
~Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2015, Early Access
Fall, believe it or not, is not that far away, or at least prepping your fall wardrobe isn’t, so when I learned that Nordstrom card holders had the opportunity to early access to the Anniversary Sale from July 9-16, I wanted to spread the word. Don’t have a Nordstrom card? You can sign up (debit or credit is available) and immediately take advantage of this exclusive shopping opportunity. Below are a few items that caught my eye and the price point will save your budget.
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Television
~Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee (with host Jerry Seinfeld)
One of the unintentional benefits of flying is that you often are given the opportunity to view films or programs you either don’t have access to, weren’t aware of or haven’t had time to watch yet. Jerry Seinfeld’s web series Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee is brilliant. Now in its sixth season (I know, where have I been?), each episode is approximately twenty minutes and begins with Seinfeld picking up a fellow comedian in a vintage or collector’s car (car enthusiasts will love the intro and especially Chris Rock’s episode as they put the speed to the limit only to be pulled over which only adds to the hilarity), conversation ensues as they drive to an eating establishment or destination (Louis C.K. takes Seinfeld out on his boat) to drink coffee.
Needless to say, a simple premise that allows the comedians to do what they do best, bounce off of each other creating absolutely engaging repartee. Below is a clip of Tina Fey’s episode, but click here to see all of the comedians who have participated. I have a feeling your favorite comic has been invited.
~recipe for Grilled Steak & Gorgonzola Pizza~
The heat is gradually abating, and summer truly has arrived with all of his wonderful opportunities to get out and play, relax and explore. I do hope your summer is off to a tremendous start.
This Saturday, if you live in my area, The Annual Fashion Lover’s Yard Sale returns for the last time. Beginning at 7:30 am, bright and early and running through 2pm (check the local papers for the address), stop by for oodles of furniture (brass bed, oak antique table, hardwood chairs and so much more). And while the fashion options will be abundant, earlier this week I snapped a pic of all the books I will be selling as well. Mixing the beauty and brains so to speak, no?
Needless to say, as I mentioned yesterday, change is coming, and I am welcoming it with open arms. I am fortunate to spend these last few days with my mom, and I am beyond appreciative for her help in the organization of Saturday’s event. Without question, it will be a memorable experience, and supposedly quite cooler as well!
However, I know most of you are not in my proximity, so dropping by is out of the question. Whatever your weekend plans may bring, I do hope they involve exactly what you need and desire. Wishing you a lovely few days off, and until Monday, bon weekend!
~Did you watch the first few minutes of the World Cup Women’s Finals on Sunday? Did you see Karli Lloyd? I was both cheering and crying tears of celebration. A most amazing first half for the US Women and especially Ms. Lloyd. Bravo.
~From waking up early, working out in the morning and much more, discover a few of the Morning Rituals of 5 High-Profile Business Leaders
~5 Things You Should Be Able to Smile About in Five Years
~Wonderful words to ponder . . . 20 Brutally Honest Things Women Turning 40 Want All Women in Their 30s to Know
~The Telegraph shares their Best Books for Summer Reading
~We all need to and in doing so may welcome a few aha moments of how to proceed more effectively through our lives when we return . . . 6 Ways to Really Disconnect on Vacation
~THIS & THAT POSTS FROM THE ARCHIVES:
~No. 165 – full of luxurious comforts for relaxing
~No. 164 – loving this lady’s music and much more
~No. 158 – I cannot wait to see this film or this film
Image: (2)
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July 9, 2015
Thoughts from the Editor: A New You Awaits
“If you let go a little, you will have a little peace. If you let go a lot, you will have a lot of peace.” ~Ajahn Chah
In many ways knowing that I would be moving my entire life and career for over two months has given me the opportunity to truly appreciate what has led me to where I am and why I am choosing to move forward. In other ways, it has been like ripping a band-aid off excruciatingly slow. After all, I’ve known I’ve wanted to live in Bend for years, so these past few days, as I’ve gone through each closet, cupboard and shelf, selecting items to be sold in this weekend’s yard sale, I’ve chosen to look at this move as something entirely different from past relocations. Rather than taking my past with me, I am leaving as much of my past behind so as to start what truly is a new stage as fresh as possible.
After taking a moment to count up all of the different towns, cities, apartments, houses and states I’ve lived in since I left for college, the total number reached its zenith at eight. Now for some that may not be that many and for others it may seem exorbitant, but much like Goldilocks, that is precisely how many locations it has taken me before I finally got it just right; however, your number will be entirely unique to your journey.
As I was going through my book shelves, and down-sizing my collection to two thirds of its original size, I came upon a book that I won’t be parting with and for good reason. Sarah ban Breathnach’s Simple Abundance: A Daybook of Comfort and Joy. I can remember quite vividly her conversation with Oprah in the late nineties when the book was published. Their conversation made me perk up as I listened intently as a teenager.
There were many quotes I highlighted and life suggestions made that I pondered over and tried to incorporate into my life. If you haven’t picked up the book before, each day of the year, Breathnach’s offers an entry that is usually 1-2 pages in length, ideal for a daily moment of pause and reflection. Below are just a few of the lines that captured my attention years ago:
Whatever we are waiting for – peace of mind, contentment, grace, the inner awareness of Simple Abundance – it will surely come to us, but only when we are ready to receive it with an open and grateful heart.
Simplicity gains importance in our lives as we begin to make peace with ourselves.
The greatest secret to living a happy and fulfilled life is the realization that everything is created in our minds before it manifests itself in the outer world. We must believe it before we can see it. You have to know what you’re digging for, before X can mark the spot.
Turn away from the world this year and begin to listen. Listen to the whispers of your heart. Look within. Your silent companion has lit lanterns of love to illuminate the path to Wholeness. At long last, the journey you were destined to take has begun.
If it’s not authentically you, live without it.
And while there are quotes that cause the reader to stop and reread for full effect, at this point in my life, the quote below gave me great pause. The past few months have been filled with extraordinary highs of which I cannot be grateful enough and frustrating lows that even I didn’t expect, but perhaps the penultimate moments leading up to my leap validates what Breathnach’s quote below is trying to illuminate. And if that is the case, the idea that I am stepping into a new stage in my life, couldn’t be more accurate.
Perhaps that is why I have been shocked by the myriad of emotions I have felt. Perhaps that is why when each of us chooses to finally muster up the courage to do something we never thought we’d get the chance to do or attempt something no one ever expected we would say yes to, that we feel trepidatious is a sign not to signal us to stop, but rather a sign that we are stepping into a realm that is more in alignment with who we truly are, and while we will never be able to return, it truly is a moment to celebrate. We’ve made it. We’ve made it to yet another level of our progress of reaching our full potential.
“I have come to realize that feeling afraid is Spirit’s signal to ask for grace and power. So take a deep breath, seek your quiet center and push on. One of the hardest lessons we ever have to master is accepting that all fear comes from within however major are the real life’s circumstances assaulting us. The closer we get to giving our dream to the world, the fiercer the struggle becomes to bring it forth. Why should this be so? Because we will be inexorably changed, and life can never return to the way it once was. Of course we’re scared; we wouldn’t be sane if we weren’t . . . Trust that the same Power that gifted you with your dream knows how to help you make it come true.” -Sarah ban Breathnach
Whatever journey you are on at the moment, whether it is reshaping your attitude, your social circle, your career path or perhaps you too are uprooting yourself physically as I am, allow the uncertainly and the exhilaration of what you might be to be your fuel.
I will leave you with one last quote from the book I highly recommend:
“Realize the past no longer holds you captive. It can only continue to hurt you if you hold on to it. Let the past go. A simply abundant world awaits.” ― Sarah Ban Breathnach
~THOUGHTS FROM THE EDITOR POSTS FROM THE ARCHIVE:
~My Ultimate Everyday Luxury: Christy Linens
Image: (1)
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July 8, 2015
Decor Inspiration: French-Inspired Bathroom Remodel
The beautiful co-mingling of French, country, and clean white aesthetics that invite breath-taking simplistic luxury is what you will find when you visit Maria Carr’s blog and online business Dreamy Whites Lifestyle. On her family’s North California farm, she and her husband (and five children) are remodeling a 19th century farmhouse and taking readers along with them through each stage. Recently, her bathroom caught my eye, and I wanted to share in this week’s Decor Inspiration. From the wooden French door to the French stone soap sink and of course the glorious soaking tub, I don’t know about you, but I wish she would open a B & B so that we all might enjoy.
The good news however is that you can follow her progress on her Instagram feed @dreamywhiteslifestyle and peruse her shop for French soaps, linens and even dog beds and market totes. Be sure to check it all out.
~DECOR INSPIRATION POSTS FROM THE ARCHIVES:
All images via Dreamy Whites Lifestyle
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Good Grammar Is . . . : Less vs. Fewer
~Good Grammar Is . . . Posts from the Archives:
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July 7, 2015
Outfit of the Week: High & Low Style
~Derek Lam Stripe Applique Top (63% off)~
~Stella McCartney Circles Necklace~
~Talitha Foulard-Jacquard silk shorts (40% off)~
~Tomas Maier Palm-Tree Embossed Leather Sandal~
~Rebecca Minkoff Mini Avery Tote~
~Genetic Los Angeles Blondie Short Sleeve denim jacket~
~Rebecca Minkoff Safari Haze Leaf Cut Bracelet~
SHOP THE OUTFIT:
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