White Hot

Not a Blank Slate

Now, I'll be the first to tell you that I like color.  Heck, some may even call me "colorful."  LOL

Just looking at a Lilly Pulitzer dress makes me smile, reminds me of summer fun and makes me thirsty for a fancy girlie drink.

That said, nothing is chicer than a white summer ensemble.  And I mean head-to-toe white.  Try wearing all white, accented with neutrals -- like Kate Moss (at right) with the natural leather belt and purse, paired with metallic sandals.

A Few of My Blanc Favorites for Summer

From Top Clockwise:  K. Jacques Double Band Sling-Back Sandal; Theory Sleeveless Crepe Jumpsuit, Superga Lace Sneakers, Rebecca Minkoff dress 

Center:  Coach Bleeker Pinnacle Riley Carryall in Matte Croc Embossed Leather

Try an all white ensemble this summer.  It's cool -- temperature wise and hip factor wise.

Positively yours,

Paula Chamblin Aulino

Associate ASID

Which Way To...

Jacket -- old (similar here); Shorts -- Zara; Blouse -- old (similar here); Bangles -- Ippolita;  Ring -- David Yurman (via Saks Fifth Avenue); Shoes -- old (similar here); and Bag -- old (similar here); Pin and Sunglasses -- Chanel (via Saks Fifth Avenue)

At the Risk of Repeating Myself

 I've said it before and I'll say it again.  

The easiest (and least expensive) way to quickly change 

the look and feel of a space is to paint.

Case in Point:  The Alabama Project

In this project, the new home has fabulous detailed wood work and high ceilings, but items on the bookshelf got lost in all the white paint.  Adding an accent color with paint on the backside of the bookcase adds color and depth.   Notice how I've carried the bookcase accent color into the room with throw pillows.  See the difference!

Bookshelves Before

 Bookshelves After

The Whole Picture

We still have some tweaking to do, but we are making great progress.  This is an easy, inexpensive update.  You could also use wallpaper on the back of a bookcase for a similar effect.  I especially like to use a textured wallpaper like  grasscloth.  It's a little more expensive, but you're worth it!

Positively yours,

Paula Chamblin Aulino

Associate ASID

And They're Off...

Such a busy weekend!  

Not only do we have, arguably, the most thrilling two minutes in sports 

(of course, I'm talking derby to you), 

we also have a festive Cinco de Mayo on the horizon.

What to wear to the derby or derby-inspired party?  

A hat, of course.  I would suggest adding an ensemble to the hat.  Who wants to attend THAT kind of party?!!  Ha!

If you're hosting a derby soirée of your own, check out my Pinterest board for some fun, easy ideas.  

How about adding a touch of the "derby" to your home decor?

Why not combine the two events for a Derby de Mayo celebration?  I don't mind if I do.

Here's what I'll be wearing this weekend.

Enjoy!

Positively yours,

Paula Chamblin Aulino

Associate ASID