Tag Archives: Patterns

Décor to Adore

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Décor and interior design is so important in curating a look that screams you. When friends or family walk into your abode, you want them to feel like they have entered a home that represents who you are. That’s why there are so many different looks to suit the large spectrum of people out there.

I have been a condo owner for about two years now, and I am still building my nest. The essentials, such as my bed, dresser, desk, TV, couches, and dining room table are all there, but the rest remains a work in progress. I just haven’t found the right pieces that will bring everything together and make it truly my own.

The truth is, it always takes time to find the things that will fit and speak to you (as Pier 1 Imports’ commercials say), but until I do, I will continue to scour the city for them.

One such place I was able to get a preview of what is to come this year is at the Alberta Gift Fair that was held last weekend in Edmonton, Alberta. The event is for registered store owners, so it wasn’t open to the public, but these are the top 10 trends I noticed and might consider incorporating into my home.

1) Striking colours including turquoise and shades of green and grey

A mix of home accessories that incorporate green and grey.

A mix of home accessories that incorporate green and grey.

2) Wood/natural materials

Leather and wood bar stools with oval cutouts.

Leather and wood bar stools with oval cutouts. These were found at Homesense.

3) Clean lines and cutouts (see above image)

4) Bold patterns

A patterned mirror and nesting tables seen behind an Eiffel Tower room partition.

A patterned mirror and nesting tables seen behind an Eiffel Tower room partition.

5) European elements (see above image)

6) Vintage/rustic/found objects

Tables that look to be made out of vintage wire wheels, painted bright colours.

Tables that look to be made out of vintage wire wheels, painted bright colours.

7) Clocks – not necessarily a working one

The face of a clock becomes the top of a table.

The face of a clock becomes the top of a table.

8) Stackable shelving

IMG_2774 - Copy

Versatile shelving or tables depending on how you look at these singular boxes.

9) Leather and metal

A classic armchair with an industrial, modern feel.

A classic armchair with an industrial, modern feel.

10) Horses – I’m not sure if it’s because it’s the Year of the Horse for the Chinese or what, but I saw an abundance of equine themed art.

A painting of two horses - very ethereal.

A painting of two horses – very ethereal and contemporary as opposed to western themed.

I think I have a pretty eclectic sensibility when it comes to what I wear and what I put in my home. Hopefully I find a way to incorporate it all without it becoming overwhelming.

What kind of design style do you lean towards? Are there any trends or looks you plan to add to your house? Do you have suggestions for easy, yet stylish do-it-yourself projects? Please share below!

Spring/Summer Wardrobe Mix and Match

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It’s been a long winter in my city, and while April didn’t exactly bring any showers, I am wishing for May flowers. With spring comes the shedding of winter clothing – no more tights underneath pants, layered sweaters, heavy down or wool coats and shearling lined boots. Bring on the dresses, tank tops, peep-toe shoes and sandals because I’m ready for what’s sure to be too short of a spring/summer season.

Now, I can’t really afford to purchase a brand new wardrobe every few months (perhaps one day I’ll have a closet like Carrie in Sex and the City and lottery winnings to do so). However, I have nonetheless found inspiration for looks that I’d like to try this year. I’ve talked about using H&M’s dressing room feature in a previous post before and I’m going to use it again to show you some of the looks I’ve put together for the next few months.

Look #12

Look #10

Look #35

Look #13

Look #32

Look #23

Look #30

Look #26

Though shops like H&M, Forever 21 and numerous other budget clothing stores gear towards quick trends, I don’t necessarily believe in following them. I think you should wear what looks good on your body and what makes you feel confident. If something grabs your attention, try it on. You might be surprised at how good it looks on you. My one tip: be polished, but don’t forget to have a little fun with some colours and patterns, even if it’s subtle.

I myself am a bit of a hoarder with my clothes. I have items that have lasted me from high school to university and, now, six years and counting from graduating with my bachelor’s degree. What I’ve learned over the years about fashion is that everything is cyclical and almost anything can be reworked down the road. As long as it still fits you well and it’s in good condition and you have the space, keep it. I’m sure with a little digging in my own closet, I’ll be able to piece together similar styles to the ones shown. The different combinations will feel like a completely fresh warm weather wardrobe without having to spend a fortune on anything new.

All that’s left is hoping that the sunshine comes out to play and that the wind eventually dies down, so that we can truly enjoy this time of year that always seems to fly by too quickly for our liking.

Photo sources: All outfit combinations were created by me on H&M.com’s dressing room feature.