Happy Friday!

{via}

Happy Friday!  I have the day off today (wee-hee) and the craft fair that I've been preparing for is tomorrow (double wee-hee).  As of today, the weather forecast is calling for isolated thunderstoms in the afternoon. Please cross you fingers that this doesn't happen and if it does, that the storms don't force the fair to close down.  I cannot wait to spend the day with my old friend and craft-fair booth partner, Homemade Grits.  If you're in town, please do come by and say "hello!"

  Thank you for all of you responses to this post.  Your response was OVERwhelming and I have to say that it was exactly what I needed.  It's like I received a giant cyber-bear hug and I couldn't be more thankful.
I hope you have the loveliest weekend. I promise to post tons of photos from the craft fair and hopefully I'll have an updated list of new things I've learned. 

*Besos*
Christina

Interiors: Touches of Gold

Touches of gold...not too much for me please, just a little here and there to add some glamour and whimsy to a space. 

 via Ideal Home

 via Ideal Home

 via Hus & Hem

via jj locations

For me, these spaces have just the right amount of playfulness and sophistication.  What do you think about gold accents? Would you like this look in your own home?

On blogging...

{via}

I don't think I've ever written about the act of blogging because I realize many of you are not bloggers and could care less, but some of you are and a handful of you have asked me personally about my opinion on successful blogging, growing a blog, and simple "how to" questions concerning blogging.  I've written countless e-mails attempting to answer a variety of questions and with each e-mail I write, I realize that I know much less than I'd like to think I do and what does my opinion matter anyway?
Well, in my relatively short time blogging (1 year 3 mos) I have kept my eyes wide open, paying attention to certain blogging trends, certain blogging groups or "cliques", how people relate to one another in an online community, etc. I've payed special attention to "blogger rants", certain bloggers trying to correct a mindset of new bloggers, the "do's" and "don't" of giveaways and sponsorship, bloggers openly praising or berating themselves for growth, lack of growth, talking about numbers openly: stats, followers, comments, hits (it always goes back to the numbers, doesn't it?).  Frankly, it makes my head hurt.
If I could go back and re-write all of those e-mails I responded to, I would and I would say one thing, "Above all, be kind."  If you want to grow your blog, and I don't just mean numbers here, be kind, be genuine, simply be nice.  If someone takes their time to write you a personal e-mail, why not take the time to thank them?  If someone consistently comments on your blog, why not take the time to check out what they're talking about on their own space?  Being kind doesn't mean not be discerning and it certainly doesn't mean being a pushover or being fake.  I've met a lot of amazing, sweet, talented individuals in the blogging community.  I've also met some manipulative, self-serving individuals and I've encountered snobby, pretentious bloggers as well.  The online community is no different than the real world in that it takes all kinds and you don't have to be friends with everyone but you should be nice.
I've spent some time in the Etsy forums recently and I am astounded and shocked at some of the negative, cruel things people say to one another. Instead of supporting each other, there seems to be a preference to throw elbows in an effort to shove themselves to the top.  On the flip side, I'm encouraged when I see crafters and bloggers cheering each on, offering metaphorical high fives, and saying kind words to one another. There's plenty of that on the forums too, you just have to look a little harder (you better bet your behind that I choose what blogs I read and where I shop based on this too).
I've personally struggled lately with blogging because I've noticed a trend of negativity and elitism, but then I come back here and I get a kind comment from one of you and am reminded that D&OC is a place of positivity.  I'm reminded that I don't have to insult someone else to feel good about myself or this blog.  I'm reminded that success isn't a number, or a mention, or a link.  Thank you for your kindness, for your support, and for your positivity. 
*Hugs*
Christina

Recycled Jewelry

I recently ordered a lovely mirrored vanity tray from vintage by Alex Keller and when I received my package I noticed two business cards, one for the vintage shop and another for Alex's line of recycled jewelry.  As much as I love the tray, I kind of wish I had ordered one of these recycled necklaces, although the necklace wouldn't have been nearly as functional as the tray will be for this weekend's craft fair.

mama said gold chains and pearls $20.99;  vintage Lorraine necklace $30; sale-golden garland $49;  pearly $35

These necklaces have just the right amount of retro bling and I can always use a little more bling in my life.

Navy + White Nautical Tops Under $70

Classic, chic, timeless.  What can I say about the navy and white nautical top that hasn't already been said?  Well, I can tell you that I've owned a blue + white striped top since I was able to pay for my own clothing (around 14 years old) and there are currently 3 options in my closet (yes, I counted.) This quintessential piece defies trends and that is why it will remain a staple in my wardrobe.

{via}

I've rounded up 8 affordable options from basic tee shirts to embellished tanks and interesting shapes.

1)Striped Pocket Top $12.80 via F21

2) BB Dakota Tatum Stripe Top $41.99 (on sale) via Piperlime

3) Striped Ruffle Racer Tank $17.50 via American Eagle

4) Lucca Couture Striped Tunic $28 via UO

 5) Sea Level Top $64.99 via Modcloth

6) Capri Cardigan $68 via Boden

7) Multi Stripe Top $32 via Need Supply Co.

8) welcome aboard nautical sleeve top $31.99 via Ruche

Wondering how I would wear it?  See this outfit post for an example.  What do you think of the above options?  Is this style already a staple in your closet?


(apparently I'm a little stripe crazy this week.  It's not intentional, I promise)

Under $10: Love & Toast

Not only is the packaging for Love & Toast's line of perfume and hand creams  flat out adorable, but the products are paraben and phthalate free, never tested on animals, and the packaging comes from "100% annually renewed resources."  Oh, let me not forget to mention that many of the products are under $10!

 Mandarin Tea Hand Creme $9

Honey Coconut Little Luxe Eau de Perfumes $9

Pomme Poivre Hand Creme $9

Eco-conscious, well designed products for under $10? Someone pinch me- I'm pretty sure I'm dreaming.

Interiors: Grey + White Striped Seating

I've resigned myself to the fact that as long as I have four legged friends around, I will never be able to own a light colored couch.  I wonder though if maybe I could get away with a striped couch or chair, preferably in grey and white?

via Traditional Home via S.HOP talk

via Elle Decor

via Suellen Gregory via Cote de Texas

via decor pad (Kate Spade's Apt via World of Interiors-thank you Sanity Fair!)

via Traditional Home

For now, I might just have to settle for this chair.  Gosh, dogs really put a damper on my decorating options (Kya and Bella- you know I love you, but seriously). As you can see from the above examples, it seems that grey + white stripes fit into just about any design sensibility.  The first room is definitely closest to my own preferences but you gotta love the versatility that striped seating allows.  What do you think? Stripes or solids for your seating?

Vintage: The Tailor's Stories

Hello lovelies.  I hope you had a good weekend. I had taken some photos for you for my normal shop update, but seeing as how our internet is still out (thanks a lot drunk nurse) I've been limited in my posting abilities.  For now, I wanted to share a vintage shop I recently came across that has some adorable pieces. 

Vintage white lace collar sleeveless dress $49;  Vintage white and blue sleeveless dress with ribbon $49; Vintage sleeveless pastel floral dress with belt $49; Vintage camel china collar dress $22

The Tailor's Stories is unique because the items have been altered by the shop tailor (hence the name) so what you'll find are vintage pieces with a more modern fit.  Makes hunting for a good fit a little easier, doesn't it?

Hopefully our internet issues will be solved soon and things will get back to normal on my end.  Alright, that's enough about me. How are YOU doing?

It's Friday + dumb drunk girl knocked out my internet

{via Mona Morremo}

Happy Friday dearest readers!  This is my last weekend to prepare for the craft show so I'll be turning out some last minute necklaces, tagging items, and working on some more DIY display items. I also have the goal of finishing the most recent Slow Readers Book Club pick which I haven't had time to fully dive into.  There's always time join if you're up to it!

Last night, some college girl ran her truck into the telephone pole outside of our front yard.  The good news is that the telephone pole stopped her from running into our yard/house, the bad news is that she knocked out our internet.  So to this girl (who is probably sitting in jail right now due to her brand new, shiny, not-so-stylish DUI), I would like to say, "Don't drink and drive anymore and certainly don't drink and drive AND text on your phone.  Oh, and definitely don't tell the police officers over and over again before your field sobriety test that you're a nursing student. As a nursing student, you should know that drinking and driving is a stupid idea and knocking out a blogger's internet will only make you enemies." Phew, I feel better now.
Enjoy your weekend and don't forget to check out the list of my favorite eco-friendly shops!
xo,
Christina

Picture Perfect

 {via alice b. gardens}
I don't think the color combination could be any more perfect.  Picture perfect.
I decided to break down the colors using a a color palette generator to get a closer look at the color scheme.

I think I'll be saving this palette for the next time I have an opportunity to decorate a room.  For now, I should probably just purchase the photo as a treat for getting through the hectic week. Yes, I think that's exactly what I'll do :)

One Room, Two Ways

Ugh, I can't decide which room I like better and, as you've probably noticed, I really dislike the feeling of ambivalence. 

 {via Stella Nicolaisen}

The vintage suitcases and mannequin are perfection in the first shot, but I really like the pop of pink and the sweet sea foam dresser in the second.  This is definitely a great example of what a little styling can do to really define a space.  Do you prefer one over the other? 

D&OC's Favorite Eco-Friendly Shops

via Things Lauren Likes via Laurence 2

Happy Earth Day! I've decided for this Earth Day, that I would share with you some links to online sources that I have personally found helpful.  They're either shops I've purchased or I plan to purchase from.  This is by NO means a comprehensive list, but in considering these links, I included shops that have price points that I could feasibly fit into my meager budget.  You may already know most of these shops (I've blogged about many of them before), but I hope you find this helpful in your search for earth-friendly products! (listed in no particular order)

*Bath and Beauty*
Pangea Organics- Deliciously smelling products that B and I can both use.  Enjoy 25% off through April 30th in celebration of Earth Day. 
Lush- This is a fun, hip shop that with a huge variety of products.  I currently use this shampoo and I adore it.  Lush also has a great bottle recycling program.
Eco Tools- Definitely some of the most affordable eco friendly make up brushes around.  You can find them in almost any drugstore and they're super soft too. They're currently on sale at Target for only $8.99 for a 5-piece set!
 *Reusable Totes*

ReusableBags- This is a huge site featuring pretty much any type of reusable bag you could ever want. They also sell reusable bottles and a plethora of other very handy day to day items.
Rebel Green- I love the sassy take this shop has on going green.  If you're looking for a stand out, fun reusable bag or lunch tote, this is the shop for you.
Feed- This company has a dual purpose:  when you buy one of these go-anywhere bags, the company commits to donating enough money to feed 1 child in school for 1 year.  It's an amazing project and I'm sad I still don't have a bag. I think it's going on my birthday list.
*Boutiques*

Kind -  This eco-friendly boutique is filled with comfortable chic clothing, unique accessories and adorable tea towels (amongst other things).  Enjoy 25% off order of $100 or more through April 22nd.
Reverie Daydream - The owner of this French inspired boutique is one of the nicest individuals I've met in my time as a blogger.  Her shop is simply charming and has options for the whole family. 
Oeuf- This NY based shop has the cutest products for the little ones.  I'm especially smitten with their "goodies" section.
*Paper Goods*
Night Owl Paper Goods - This shop describes themselves as "modern yet folksy."  I describe them as downright adorable.  Their use of 'sustainably harvested wood' is unique and the animal imagery  is certainly bound please just about anyone.
PooPooPaper - Yes, you read that correctly.  These products are made from poo, but don't worry, you'd never be able to tell.  Sustainable and innovative and, thankfully, not smelly.  Gotta love it. (shop seen on Iva Messy)
*Shoes*
Toms-I'm pretty sure this company doesn't need explanation,  but in case you live under a rock, the deal is you buy a pair of shoes and Toms gives a pair of shoes to a child in need.  There are tons of vegan friendly options and some great earth friendly ideas on how to recycle your old Toms.
Swedish Hasbeens- I'm wearing my new pair as I type this!  These clogs go with just about anything; they're made with "ecologically prepared natural grain leather" and they're all still handmade.  Definitely worth the money you'll spend on these.
*Jewelry*
Beth Cyr- This eco conscious artist crafts beautiful wedding rings from recycled metal and uses conflict-free diamonds.  She also happens to be designing our wedding rings!
Everyday Glory- This shop offers a wide array of upcycled vintage pieces.  You can't visit Everyday Glory without drooling over something.

via Daydream Lily via Lauren Withrow

 *Vintage*
There's no way I could possibly list all of my favorite vintage shops because this post would get out of control but I do want to mention my amazing sponsor, Capricious Traveler who's shop always has something I would love to get my paws on.  Also, check out my five top reasons for shopping vintage, if you missed it.  If you follow me on twitter, I have an ongoing list of vintage shops that I follow.

WHEW. That was a long one. If you made it this far, I commend you! If there's an eco-friendly shops that you would include on the list, please leave the link below. I just ask that the shop have price points that are reasonable for smaller budgets. 
xo,
Christina

Well Intended

As you know, tomorrow is Earth Day and I'm especially looking forward to it this year because with the increased blog coverage on this important day, I'm bound to find a bunch of new eco-friendly boutiques, designers, and tips to add  to my little bag of tricks.  Tomorrow I'll be posting a list of online shops that are both eco-friendly and affordable because I'm a true believer that everyone regardless of how small a budget you live on can afford quality earth friendly products.  Today though, I'd like to share some good intentions from Citizen Scholar's "I've been meaning to series."

Some of my personal goals this year include:

- Buy more vintage, thrifted, upcycled, and handmade products. 

-Use my eco-friendly totes each and every time I go shopping (I have a tendency to forget these at home).

-Include more posts with the "Do More with Your Money" label.

-actively support local farmers through 'Locally Grown' program here in Athens. 

-Budget and save for splurges on eco-friendly/ethically conscious products.  I don't want to surround myself with more stuff because it's cheap.  I'd rather have fewer, quality items that will last and reduce my personal waste.  A good example of this is my recent splurge on these shoes. 

So now that I've shared some goals, I'd love to hear yours.  What are you intentions for reducing your carbon footprint this year?  The goals needn't be extreme.  I'd love to hear even the smallest eco-conscious goals!

Bows + Shoes

Bows on shoes? Yes please!  Bows on shoes for less than $70.  Double yes! 

 paulette (yellow) $59.99;  mirabella (red) $59.99; mimi (blue) $49.99;  bonjour $69.99

These are available at the shoe boutique, April in Paris.  I found this boutique via Bright, Bold, and Beautiful. I suppose it's a good thing none of these aren't available in my size. Apparently my sister was right. I have clown feet (or was it alien toes? I can't remember).

Bunting and Birdies

These pieces by Atlanta based Pragya K combine the best of both worlds: bunting and birds.  Besides the imagery, I really enjoy the effect created when something 2-D is forced to interact with an object (in this case, the bunting).  So sweet!

Chirpy Spring $30

Let there be light $60

Wonderland $30

Catch Me $30

{shop seen on Desire to Inspire "Winks")

I can't decide on a favorite, I think they're all fantastic.  What do you think?

Down & Out Dapper #9: Green Edition

It's time for our monthly guest blogger, Down and Out Dapper.   This series address gift and style ideas for men (duh). I hope you enjoy this month's Green edition.

Sorry to be late this month, I've been recovering from some awful migraines... So to kick off this week of green (Earth Day is on Thursday sillies), I've been takin' some pills from the green bottle.

 So good to me.

The weather is as nice as it's gonna get, so fire up that grill and enjoy the last few cool nights before the hot summer nights drip in.

Neatorama (Paper Mask Inlcuded!!!) $28

En Garde you tasty hamburger. Give 'em a flip with this sweet swashbuckler spatula. While you are at it, pick up the matching pronged for sword too!

The days are getting longer which means your man will be sweating in the sun while grill'n up his meat (not that meat...) so grab him a summer fedora to keep the rays off his face. Goorin Brothers makes amazing hats - the grip and quality will surpass most of what you can find for the price.

 Butch Vented Straw Fedora. $50

For those moments when you want to escape, or want him to, these Control headphones by Eskuche should help out. Bonus: if you are using these on a phone the built in microphone allows you to answer phone calls!

 Control Headphones by Eskuche $58
 When the lights go down and you are still looking for some warmth, try making your own sun jar. Of course you could always buy one here, or you can make your own solar powered one by following these steps.

 Sun Jar. Amazon. $30

Art Corner!

My wife and I have been on an art hanging kick as of late. Since I can't but all of it, I thought it'd be great to start introducing some shops and artists here.
Rainbow Lincoln via Justin Richel $15

Bike Love. eco-friendly? try eco-sexy! custom colors available. William Dohman $20

You Are Here Now this would be perfect above the toilet. Farouche $35

-------------------------------

Just a reminder if you are a local Athenian: Thursday April 22 - Ghostbusters Group Art Show Reception at Cine, 10 pm with a free movie screening at midnight. Friday April 23, Live Free or Drive, a Twilight Bike themed Show at Anchor Tattoo and Gallery. Arrive on a bike and receive a free print. OMG!

-K

Under $100: Peachy Keen

Feeling peachy?  Peachy-orange, peachy-pink, with so many peach options this season, I thought I'd round up a few inexpensive pieces I wouldn't mind getting my hands on. 

1) Vintage women's sleeveless top $22 via lisa wine studios 

2) peaches and vanilla cream 60's necklace $32 via 5gardenias

3) Kimchi Blue Swiss Dot Oxford $38 via UO 

4)  Peach bow shirred hem top  £25.00 via Dorothy Perkins

5) Rose Gold & Pink Quartz Button Earrings $22 via 1928

6) Stripe-Bow Open Toe Flats $52.20 via Yesstyle

7) Solid Wrap Front Tank $80 via J.Crew

8) Silk bowtie top $69.50 via Banana Republic

Plate Walls (yet again)

I have actively tried to stop spotting plate walls for fear of boring and/or scaring you, but I'm telling you, they find me.  If you haven't seen the collection, you must visit the plate wall archives. 

via here

via Clair Olivia Wayman

via Liz Williams via House of Turquoise

via It's Mary Ruffle

via Elle Decor South Africa (thank you Wally's Paper!)

Including these five walls, I've now posted 87 different plate walls.  87!  What's wrong with me (better question yet is why did I count?) ?  Now that I'm this close to 100, I can't stop.  Ugh, it's time for a new obsession, but not until I get to 100 friends.  If you see a plate wall that's not in the archives, please e-mail me!  Help me end this ridiculous obsession.