Posts Tagged ‘fashion’
Creative Crush: Illustrator SANDY M of Ooh La Frou Frou
This week’s Creative Crush, Sandy M, is an artist and illustrator based out of beautiful Clarkston, Michigan. Trained in fine art, she began creating commissioned paintings about twenty years ago. Sandy works in many mediums: acrylic, gouache, watercolor, pastel and ink, but for her illustrations she uses mainly gouache, watercolor and ink. Requests for her custom illustrations grew dramatically and a little over two years ago she developed her illustrated blog Ooh La Frou Frou. These fabulous fashion illustrations have been printed on cards that have been purchased and shipped all over the world. Her illustration calendar is always busy and she loves seeing what her clients have in store for her. Recently she has let all of the greeting cards featuring her illustrations sell out in order to take a little time to create an exciting new website that better represents her bustling career which will be launched in 2013. We are thrilled that she is sharing some of her holiday glamour with us – enjoy!
- Your illustrations are full of glamorous and pretty details. We would love to hear some tips on how to incorporate glamorous details into our holiday decor!
It seems that no matter how beautiful holiday decorations are, they are not truly magical until the lights go up … after all, what’s a holiday without sparkle? I always try to create holiday decor that will be a memory for my family, as well as be beautiful and inspiring to others that see the décor. Decorating a front door has always been one of my favorite places to feature … and I like to go big so the details can be seen from the street. Instead of simply hanging greenery and lights, I always embellish the lit greenery with ornaments, often handmade. The planning for the Christmas door theme starts in autumn … this year’s décor is called “Christmas Time.” I painted a wood banner for the top and asked my husband if he would cut wood discs of varying sizes out for me, which magically turned in to “clocks” as I painted in the details of different classic clock faces and embellished them with glitter and large rhinestones that sparkle when lights are shown on them from the street.
My Christmas tree was so big this year that it felt like the Rockefeller Center tree to us … so I thought it would be fun to make it memorable and add some whimsical city themed ornaments with classic gold and chartreuse ornaments … I created illustrations of city townhouses, copied them off on cardstock, cut them out, glittered them and hung them with ribbon on the tree … I already had some city taxis with a Christmas tree on top illustrated and did the same for those. Now when I look at the top of the tree, I feel like it’s the upper East side! The story of this tree design is on my December 10th Monday blog post called “It’s Christmas Time in the City”.
- What sights, smells and sounds put you the mood for the holidays?
Christmas music, of course, and I love holiday store décor and decorated city streets. And when the potpourri called “The Smell of Christmas” by Aromatique wafts up as I walk past it in department stores, I know the season is here!
- Do you get inspired by holiday movies for your illustrations, and if so which ones?
I’m a romantic and one of my very favorite holiday movies is “The Holiday” with Kate Winslet , Cameron Diaz, Jude Law and Jack Black. I watch it every year!
- When trying to select your holiday cards it can be overwhelming with so many different options to choose from. As an illustrator of your own line of cards, what’s your advice on how to choose holiday cards that will represent your own personal style?
I sometimes coordinate my holiday cards with my door décor … I sometimes illustrate my own holiday cards and if pressed for time, simply buy the prettiest I can find. Since I love glitter and city chic, it’s not surprising that many of my holiday cards of the past feature this theme. I think the card you choose should simply make you happy and reflect the way you and your family feel about Christmas.
-What’s the best advice you’ve been given about staying inspired that you still follow today?
The biggest inspiration killer is fatigue. The other, for me, is too much time in the studio or house … nothing makes me feel more inspired than getting out walking by beautiful window displays and out on bustling streets, sipping cappuccino, leafing through a fashion magazine and watching the world go by … all of a sudden, thoughts just bubble up that are translated into an illustration. We’ve all heard it before and I know that it is certainly true. If we don’t take care of ourselves first, we have nothing to give to others.
Whether it’s decorating our homes, window shopping on bustling city streets, whipping up a fabulous dessert, slipping into something sparkly for a party … December is one of the most glamorous months of all! Following are some of the holiday images I’ve found very inspirational and pinned to my Pinterest boards:
- Exterior holiday décor
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Glamorousfashion details
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City townhouse holiday decorations
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Beautiful city storefronts like Harry Winston in NYC
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Delicious holiday recipes
Creative Crush: Jessica Grygo
From our Brand Content Manager, Elena Batt:
I met today’s Creative Crush, Jessica Grygo, when we were twenty-somethings and shared an apartment on Manhattan’s Lower East side. Jessica was the most glamorous person I had ever been friends with; at the time she was just starting a new job as Brand Development Manager at Candies Inc. Although Jessica had her finger on the pulse of fashion, with her sharp wit and hilarious sense of humor she could laugh at it all, too. Needless to say being roommates was a blast! We lived together for a little over a year and then fate took us in different directions; I left New York and Jessica went on to design interior spaces and windows at Diesel USA, French Connection, Earnest Sewn, Polo Ralph Lauren and is currently the Visual Director for Vineyard Vines. Her creativity and sweat is behind what we experience when we are mesmerized by a window display or give a squeal of delight upon entering one of these stores. To me she has always been a person with a gift for appreciating beauty all around her. What a pleasure is has been to be able to peek into her world!
1) What tips would you offer our readers on how to set the scene for a holiday dinner or party?
Pick one theme and stick to it, and then tell the whole story for that theme. For example if you were doing a Winter Ice theme pick key elements to bring that home for you. Birch branches for an organic, woody note, Crystal is your high, elegant, note, silver balls for a metallic note. Then pick one color, I like purple (the forgotten holiday color). Once you have decided on your elements make sure that all of the other details incorporate them, perhaps using silver napkin rings and Birch branches as a motif in your invitations. The most important thing is to be consistent so that everywhere you look you see your theme reflected back to you. Then within that framework you can add surprising and fun touches like a crystal animal in your place setting.
2) Where do you draw your inspiration from for Vineyard Vines’s visual displays?
The Vineyard Vines identity is very New England, boating, saltwater sailing, fishing, teak wood, casual, homey and welcoming. I go straight to the source and spend time in Martha’s Vineyard, paying close attention to architectural details, and the landscape. I also go to the bars and talk to the people who live there. When I need more specific information I go to Rizzoli’s bookstore in Manhattan and look for anything about sailing, New England and Regattas so that I can look at pictures of elements like rope, sailcloth, grommets, and teak wood. Even if it’s not directly related to my work for Vineyard Vines I am always inspired by ABC Carpet and Home. Their displays never fail to fill me with wonder and awe!
3) We know you are a huge music lover, does music ever play a role in your designs?
Certain environments lend themselves well to different types of music. Big open spaces are well suited to lounge or ambient, electronic music. A more rustic, cozy space lends itself well to Bob Dylan. I always find it helpful to have something on in the background that’s inspiring when I’m working. The right choice of music can help switch my mood.
4) What’s the best advice you’ve been given that you still follow when designing visual displays?
Karen Eliot, the Senior V.P. Creative Services from Polo Ralph Lauren gave me this advice: Tell one story. Tell it well. Tell it all the way through. I live by it, and it’s made me who I am today.
5) Describe your fantasy Christmas:
My fantasy Christmas is actually very traditional, which is surprising. Usually I’m very modern, beachy and feminine. Christmas is the only thing in my design vernacular that I would do in the traditional way, starting with colors of silver, gold, red and green. A real Spruce tree, antique lead and tin ornaments, and homemade popcorn and cranberry garlands that remind me of my childhood. And they smell so good!
Jessica’s December Inspiration
New York Bridal Week & The Martha Stewart Party oh my!!
International Bridal Week and New York City, on their own each of these two things excite me and put a little pep in my step…. Together they are AMAZING and keep me glowing for days! Today’s Fashion Forward Friday is a recap of my week in “the City”. I hope you enjoy these images as much as I enjoyed taking them! New fashion, old and new friends AND LOTS of new inspiration.
The view of New York City from the Penthouse of the London Hotel.
Sareh Nouri wedding gowns waiting for the next showing.
A lovely Sareh Nouri dress.
An intricate sash embellishes this beautiful Sareh Nouri gown.
A stunning Enchanted Atelier necklace.
I enjoyed talking millinery fashions with the fabulous Melissa Bolin, founder of Kitty Andrews Millinery
It was a full house at the Martha Stewart Party!
Who doesn’t like a bedazzled white pizza?
One of the many stations at the Martha Party. Mini-manicure anyone?
Sandy Patangay designed this amazing wedding cake – Creme Delicious is just that!
I had a wonderful time and came home with notebooks full of ideas and a camera full of great photos. I can’t wait to share more about my travels to New York and the amazing designers & inspiring trends we have to look forward to this coming year.
Fabulous Find – Soliloquy Bridal Event
Our Fabulous find comes from our friends at Soliloquy Bridal . Every Wednesday, now through August, they are giving their clients the chance to save. Upon entering, brides will be greeted and asked to draw a “wild card”. Their card will reveal between 10 and 25 percent savings on ANY purchase over 100 dollars. You can save on your couture bridal gown, veil, bridesmaid dresses or all of the above. We can’t wait to hear what you find!
Fashion Forward Friday: Hats off to Summer
With Summer here and the bright sun shining, what better time to find the perfect summer hat! With so many styles to choose from we decided to share a few of our favorites.
1. Wide Brim Floppy – Who doesn’t love a wide brim floppy hat. This classic style will keep you looking fabulous all summer long.
2. Straw Chambray Trilby Hat – Just as J Crew puts it “Dapper Defined” This classic straw woven hat sets the stage for a stylish summer. We’re obsessed with the chambray striped band.
3. Biltmore Panama Hat – This style hat may have been the gentlemen’s hat for centuries but it sure look on the ladies this seasons.
4. Floppy Hat with Decorative Scarf – The perfect hat for any outfit. Just pick your favorite scarf and viola your look is complete.
What hat will you be wearing this season?
Fashion Forward Friday: Beach Ready
Are you heading to the beach this summer, but not quite sure what to bring along? Check out SF’s beach bag essentials below! These great finds will have you ready to enjoy a relaxing vacation with the family and friends.
1. California Baby SPF 30+ Sunscreen – Great sunscreen for anyone with sensitive skin. No chemicals and plenty of protection with SPF 30!
2. Coola Liplux SPF 30 – Keep your lips safe from the sun with this lip balm, perfect for the beach!
3. Lauren Ralph Lauren Beach Towel – Think about a designer beach towel this season. With so many styles to choose from, there’s no excuse to hit the beach with a plain old towel.
4. Shore Road Picnic Romper – Perfect for wearing on the sand as a bathing suit coverup, or to a dinner at the end of the day.
5. Fujifilm Weather-Proof Digital Camera – Capture the fun with this sand and waterproof camera. For you water enthusiasts, you can take even take photos at 16 feet under!
6. Ray-Ban Folding Aviators – Ray-Bans are our favorite glasses this year and now they’re even more convenient! Foldable and storeable, these glasses come with their own carrying case, making it easy to bring them along.
7. Apple iPod Shuffle – Who doesn’t love music at the beach? This perfect-sized player will have you jamming to your favorite playlist.
8. LL Bean Open-Top Boat and Tote Bag – Tried and true, nothing compares to the good ol’ LL Bean carry tote. Loved it back then, still a favorite today. With so many sizes to choose from, the extra large is perfect for all of your beach necessities.
Think About It Thursday: Bright-Kite Delight
Think About It Thursdays are an opportunity to learn something fabulous every week; a fresh perspective on an old stand by, a lesson learned or a tip to share – take a minute and just Think About It…
If you read yesterday’s post you learned how to create a custom kite. For some it’s a fun craft project but if you Think About It it’s a fun detail that can be incorporated into your baby shower decor and then transferred into your baby’s nursery. This fun DIY is a great way to incorporate some meaning behind your details and make a memory that will follow your baby into childhood.
Below you will see how we incorporated our DIY kite idea into a kite-themed baby shower:
For the mother and father to be, this design process was a particularly rewarding experience; the couple were able to select fabrics that matched with their nursery decor as well as choose patterns that reflected their personalities and style.
Invitations are a fun and creative way to tie in your DIY project with your theme. We incorporated the kite and kite fabric into all the centerpieces and paper details. We were able to play with color, texture, fabric and patterns with this kite inspired baby shower.
1. The Mommy and Daddy to be both chose pictures of themselves as children with their parents to use as table cards – note the kite accent detail.
2. You can never go wrong with a kite inspired cupcake and a candy licorice tail. Note: Ribbons to accent the clear cupcake package were selected to compliment the kite’s fabric.
3. These hand cut mini-kite place cards helped set the tone for the celebration. All mini-kites had matching fabric with the larger kites that soared above.
If you Think About It, this DIY project is a gift that keeps on giving. It’s not only a a fun project that you can do with family and friends, but a talking point for your shower and colorful detail piece for your nursery. After hearing back from this mother reflecting on her shower, she said the greatest gift was watching her daughter enjoy this kite and having a sentimental keepsake to always remember the special day.
An Inspired Love Story
Our SF team is always thinking about design and details and we are constantly searching for the next cool piece for our clients. Part of this process is finding what inspires us. As design-director and co-founder of Something Fabulous, Jennifer is always looking for great ideas and inspiration. Just like her pinterest board, Jennifer’s main source of inspiration comes from her love for fashion and how fashion trends transcend all aspects of life, be it clothing, make-up, home decor, baby or stationery.
Check out Jennifer’s inspiration board below so see what she is loving this month:
Feel free to send your inspiration to ideas@somethingfab.com – We’d love to highlight what you are loving this Summer!
A Smashing Little Love Story
Our fabulous world revolves around life’s celebrations. And with several little ones in our “fab” family, you can imagine how excited we were when we came across this idea recently… Cake smash photos! The birthday cake is always such a highlight of the first birthday celebration, so why not schedule a photo shoot with your little one to document their first experience of enjoying & destroying one? Kim Ritsema, a Metro Detroit photographer who specializes in family, children’s and nature photography, does a wonderful job of capturing it all in her Cake Smash Sessions. Kim provides the custom cake, but the bath & laundry afterwards are up to you!
Feel free send us any smashing photos you may have from your little one’s first birthday bash.
The Love of Mother’s Day
Each year, on the second Sunday of May, we dedicate the day to mothers everywhere. There is no greater life celebration than motherhood and with Mother’s Day just around the corner we wanted to honor mothers and their influence in each of our lives. Stay tuned for our SF team’s mommy love stories coming next week…
If you have a mommy love story you would like to share, we would love to hear it! Please send any stories or photos to ideas@somethingfab.com
