Is That a Gun in Your Pocket?

Growing up small town in Wyoming I have definitely seen my share of the 2nd Amendment. I mean come on, they taught us how to shoot rifles at 6th Grade Camp! Now living in Southern California, life is a bit different. Trucks with gun racks included are definitely not the norm! With that said, I am obsessing over this clutch by Vlieger & Vandam. Yes, it is a bit controversial, but I love it! It is the perfect statement piece and a conversation starter for sure! I would love to pair it with a girly floral dress, or sophisticated blazer. Sure, I wouldn't be able to travel with it, bring it to any concerts or sporting events...but I still must have it! Check out the rest of the collection HERE.

My Style Icon

Taylor Tomasi Hill, the Artistic Director at Moda Operandi is my current style icon and overall girl crush at the moment. She embodies everything I admire when it comes to the perfect girly, sophisticated style with a bit of an edge. From head to toe, with her vibrant red hair and impecable pairing, she is doing it right!

Photos: Here

Extra Extra...Collude was at Blog Shop Portland!

My friend and I just had one of our products featured in the gift bags at Blog Shop in Portland hosted by Bri at Design Love Fest. We were so excited to participate! Check out the entire post HERE, and if you want your very own pair of isoseoles earrings, stop by collude. We have a lot of other fun items waiting for you!

A Bunch of Kids

This collection from Zoe de Las Cases has me feeling giddy inside! It is such a fun, quirky idea. Little cardboard cut outs of little ones. They are super cute and sure to cheer up any space!

Photos: here

The Epitome of Elegance

I may have only been 13 when Diana passed away, but I loved her from a young age. As a child I looked up to her elegant fashion, her royal lifestyle and of course her international charity work. Now I look back and admire  a whole other slew of qualities after gaining more perspective as an adult: her independence, sophistication and grace; all while trying to juggle her new life as a Princess, wife and mother. She was a nurturer and the epitome of elegance. It makes you wonder what she could have accomplished if she had more time. I think she and Oprah would have become best friends:)

"Carry out a random act of kindness, with no expectation of reward, safe in the knowledge that one day someone might do the same for you." --Princess Diana

A Triptych of Cycles

As I arrived home on Friday night I looked down to my welcome mat and saw an Ugg wearing surfer riding a stationary bike. Coast Magazine featured local artist Robin Johnson for it's cover. Her painting immediately grabbed my attention and had me researching more of her work as soon as I walked in the door. This image, as well as the others in the triptych are influenced by the culture of Laguna Beach. According to Robin "it explores themes of identity within the eclectic sub-cultures of Southern California. Presented on identical vintage exercise bikes, Amateur, Novice and Semi-Pro, are personifications of individual expression and purpose. Through the collaboration of the old and the new, these riders embody a region rich in style and diversity."

I am looking forward to viewing more of her work at the Festival of Arts in Laguna Beach next month. 

Photos: here

Today I turn 28

As I enter my last hour as a 27 year old I can reflect on an amazing year and can't wait to see what 28 has to bring. Over the last year I have explored new parts of the world, made life long friendships, and most importantly have realized my dreams and my place in this life of mine so far. I promise to stay true to this woman I have become and continue to grow into the person I know my family and friends can be proud of.  I am looking forward to many more adventures and life lessons along the way. I'm ready 28...bring it :)

The Land of Nod = Magic

As you may already know, I have grown to have a slight obsession for tents and forts. I assure you that when I have my "grown up" house I will make sure to include one special area for a totally killer fort, complete with cozy pillows and twinkle lights. I noticed The Land of Nod is doing it right! Yes, they are marketing to teenagers and little ones, but hey, a girl likes what a girl likes. Take a look at what they are cookin' up for Fall 2012.

Photos: here