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Friday, November 29, 2013

Just Throw It In The Bag (Black Friday Deals)

I hope you had an amazing Thanksgiving!  This year was a special one for our family- my brother and sister-in-law welcomed their first child this past Tuesday!  Getting to hold my new niece for the first time was an experience I can't describe- nothing could've prepared me for that.

In true Black Friday form, I wanted to share a few sales going on + a few items I'm thinking about sweeping up today:


Shop This Post:

Crystal Neptune Earrings $34/Pim + Larkin Flower Necklace $48/Michael Kors Faux Stretch Sateen Top $80/Moschino Red Skirt $375/DVF New Julian Wrap Dress $285/Harmony Suede Boots $479 ($399 TODAY!)/Marc by Marc Jacobs Textured Leather Purse $400/DVF Snakeskin Pretty Pointy Toe Heels $298 ($259 TODAY!)/


O T H E R  G R E A T  D E A L S

-Tory Burch :: Save 20% off orders over $300, save 25% off orders over $500, save 30% off orders over $750 plus free shipping.

-Shopbop :: Save 15% when you spend $250, save 20% when you spend $500, and save 25% when you spend $1000.
DATES: Nov 26 – Dec 2

And I couldn't let a Black Friday go by without sharing a song to really get you in the mood to shop:


Have a good weekend lovelies (and just throw it in the bag...)!

Tuesday, November 26, 2013

South Hampton Nursery Reveal

Happy Tuesday!  I am excited to share my latest design project with you today.  Over the past few months, I have been working with a sweet couple here in Houston to turn their guest room in to a nursery for their first child.  In terms of design, they wanted to create a serene space, with traditional elements and a neutral color palette.  We started by covering the walls in a soft Cole & Sons damask wallpaper, which helped to enlarge the room.  Then, we had a Stark carpet cut to act as a rug, and added in touches of soft French blues:








One of my favorite elements is this antique mirrored changing table.  I love that we were able to add in elegant touches to the nursery, along with the necessities.  
I hope you like the space!

{photography by Kate LeSueur}

Monday, November 25, 2013

Holiday Wish List: Mimosa Lane

Happy Monday!  I am excited to have Albertina of Mimosa Lane sharing her holiday wish list today.  We've become quick + fast friends (maybe you've noticed with our frequent collaboration posts?!), and I find her to be a style setter of sorts, so I'm thrilled she agreed to share her holiday picks:



This is Albertina from Mimosa Lane and I'm so excited to be here today sharing some of my gift ideas with all of you fabulous Peak of Tres Chic readers.  This is my first gift guide this Holiday season so it was exciting seeing all the beautiful things out there that would make cute and perfect gifts. 

I'm really in love with this white porcelain jar.  What a perfect decorative piece for a mantel, desk or bookshelf || I can never tire of or have enough trays.  This one would be so much fun to style for a coffee table or on a vanity.  The price is really nice too!||  I have been in love with this paperweight forever! and the fact  that it's gold just makes it all the more classic and attractive.  ||  This is the cutest little match striker- an ideal gift for a hostess. ||  This is the cutest japanese maple plate set.  Perfect to serve dessert or a treat at tea time.  The color combinations are darling. || This mug is ideal for those coffee drinker friends (you know who you are you pumpkin spiced latte junkies!) || Cutest box ever for your baubles or on top of a stack of books.  ||  I have seen these earrings on and they look Ahhh-mazing.  Perfect for the Holiday season.  They totally dress-up any kind of outfit.

Alrightie my beauties. Wishing you all happy and wonderful Holiday.  Come visit me over at Mimosa Lane.

Friday, November 22, 2013

The Peak of Tres Chic Speaks: Leaning In


Happy Friday!  I hope you all have had a good week.  Today's post is editorial in nature, the second in the "The Peak of Tres Chic Speaks" series (see the first here), so I completely forgive you if you want to sign off and come back Monday for more beautiful interior inspiration.  

A few weeks ago I finally purchased Sheryl Sandberg's book Lean In.  Sandberg is the current COO of Facebook, has previously worked in a VP role for Google, and for the Secretary of the Treasury.  I'm only a few chapters in, but I highly suggest all you ladies go invest in a copy, or at least go read a few pages while standing in Barnes & Noble (ha!).  The book traces its origins to a TED Talk Sheryl gave about women unintentionally holding themselves back in their careers, in which she encouraged women to "lean in" rather than leaning back- to seek challenges and pursue their career goals without giving in to the fear of what challenges their ambition might bring. 

As women in 2013,  we can be grateful for the world we live in today- we have limitless career choices and opportunities.  Yet the hard reality is that women are not making it to the top of any profession, anywhere in the world.   You can read the book for all the statistics, but in the corporate world, the percentage of women at top positions has barely changed at all since 2002.   What is more, women often face the harder choices between personal fulfillment and career advancement.  You don't often hear men talk about the struggle between staying at home with their children or continuing full time in the workforce.

Sheryl, a 40-something married mother herself, has faced these issues personally.  She feels that,  "A truly equal world would be one where women ran half our countries and companies and men ran half our homes."

My reaction to the book has been oddly intense.  When I graduated college in 2010 and went to work in the oil and gas industry, I was hell-bent on lying a strong foundation for my career.  I was in a mostly male industry, which I was fine with, but I noticed that my desire for success matched my colleagues.  Iron sharpens iron, right?  After a year and a half of working in oil and gas, however, I decided to pursue interior design with fervor and leave the energy industry.  

While the drive to learn and succeed is still inside of me, I think I've softened a lot since leaving the corporate world and being back in school.  That's why I feel like a part of me I'd forgotten has reawakened since reading Sheryl's book.  She encourages women to lean in and not count themselves out of promotions, new opportunities, or advancement simply because you fear you won't be able to handle it now or in the future.  Your job needs to be challenging, it needs to be rewarding, and you need to feel like you're making a difference- and if you live your life in anticipation of one day having kids, or one day getting married (or a host of other life events or potential work complications) you won't "lean in" now and be excited to return to a fulfilling job after starting a family.  

While the interior design field is a mostly female industry, the opportunities for advancement are limitless.  I've been fortunate enough to meet some kick ass interior designers that are doing much more than casually decorating.  I've also been lucky to have mentors in my life who were incredibly intelligent, worked in a field they were passionate about, had families, and were married to men who saw them as a partner and as an equal.  They had sat at the table, engaged in the hard discussions, and had made their husbands real partners.

  So I've decided to stop unintentionally (or perhaps, intentionally?) holding myself back just because I'm not in a corporate environment anymore, and lean in to proactively take the steps necessary to get closer to my career aspirations.  What will that look like?  Well, first, it will mean writing out the goals I have for myself that are scary to articulate (both this year and long term).  It will also mean stepping up to the plate and doing what I can now to get closer to where I want to be. And that's where I'm going to start.  And I hope you will, too! 

Have you read Sheryl's book?  What are your thoughts on "leaning in"? Why do you think women are still so poorly represented in the top positions at companies, despite our opportunities?

{image via Vanity Fair}

Tuesday, November 19, 2013

Albertina Loves: Plaid



[ You || top | pants | bag | shoes]

So happy to be here at The Peak of Tres Chic again!  This is Albertina from Mimosa Lane, back for our thirteenth installment of the "We Love" series where Sam and I swap posts for the day.  Today Sam and I are focusing on cozy, elegant, and festive plaids- They are perfect for this time of year.

The black and white plaid (although technically its gingham) is so crisp and elegant and its perfect for a cozy library nook.  And I think the classic red plaid is the best way to go when choosing one to wear! What a chic and festive way to dress.  And please, please someone get those red heels and that black and white blanket!  (They are both officially added to my Christmas list).

I know this plaid look is not for everyone.  Is it for you, or just your home? Or both?! 

Come check out Sam's plaid looks over at Mimosa Lane.

Monday, November 18, 2013

Crushing on Coral





Happy Monday!  How was your weekend?  I attended a friend's costume birthday party, which made up for the fact that I didn't dress up for Halloween this year.  Also, it was a balmy 85 degrees this weekend in Houston, so enjoying a jalepeno margarita on Sunday was a must.  I hate to say it, but I'm a warm weather person my friends.  I am completely "okay" with temps staying in the 80s all winter.  However, I know that will never happen.... so to prepare for the cooler temperatures and gray skies I'm stocking up on all things coral.  Because no matter how cold it is outside, how can you feel gloomy when you're wearing coral striped gloves?! 



Shop This Board:

Carroll Park Penelope Satchel $448/Gap Coral Striped Gloves $24.95/Coral Peony Nail Polish $18/Kate Spade Cluster Earrings $68/Candace Coral Table Lamp $442/Coral Coconuts Casey Flats $24.97/Coral Embroidery Sheet Set $199/Pine Cone Hill Scarf $55

I've had my eye on the Crane and Canopy coral sheet set for far too long... and how cute are these Kate Spade earrings?! They'd be the perfect punch for my typical all-black winter ensembles. We're also thinking of adding in touches of coral in our wedding florals, and the arrangement above is the stuff my dreams are made of.  What color are you crushing on lately?

Friday, November 15, 2013

House Tour: Susan Feldman of One Kings Lane

Hello lovelies!  TGIF!  I wanted to start your weekend off right by sharing a to-die-for home tour straight from the Hollywood Hills.  Susan Feldman, the co-founder and chief merchandising officer of One Kings Lane, worked with designer Kenneth Brown to create a warm, eclectic home for her and her family.  As you all know by now, I am a BIG fan of One Kings Lane and scour the site almost daily for inspiration- so it's no surprise to me that Feldman's home is chock full of beautiful furniture pieces and accessories.









Every detail is so well thought out and executed.  Dying to see more?  You can check out the full home tour and interview with Susan over on Domaine Home.  Have a great weekend, everyone!

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

Bar Cart Hunt

As much as I admire and discuss bar carts, you'd think I would actually own one myself!  But sadly, that is not the case.  And with our wedding 4 months away, we have been receiving a lot of fun cocktail-related gifts that are lonely for a pretty home.  If you follow me on Instagram, you may have seen these fun Mark & Graham cocktail napkins we received from a bridesmaid of mine:


So, the hunt for the perfect bar cart is on!  There are so many gorgeous options out in the market today, so I thought I'd discuss a few options I am considering:


I love the look of acrylic/glass bar carts with metal accents.  They are versatile and would let my pretty bar essentials shine.  I love that Bradley accessorized hers with a python tray:


But of course, I adore vintage brass options...




And how could I do a bar cart post without mentioning Society Social?! Their faux bamboo carts are calling my name...



Shop Bar Carts:

1.) Sedgewick Bar Cart $515/2.) Global Two Tier Bar Cart $525/3.) Aldo Tura Malachite and Gold Liquor Trolley $2,450/4.) Truman Bar Cart $799/5.) West Elm Parker Mid Century Bar Cart $349/6.) Arteriors Brass Bar Cart $1,260/7.) Roland Bar Cart $948

I think I'm leaning most towards #2 and 7.   Which is your favorite?!

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Needing, Wanting, Loving: A Fur Collar

I can't stop talking about fur details.  A few weekends ago when I visited Lindsay in Kansas City, we went shopping at Hall's and I spotted an incredible Linda Richards fur cropped jacket.  Although it was probably the most glamorous thing I've ever put on, I just don't think I could wear it without it wearing me.   I'm only 5' 2", so a fur coat is a bit much for my stature.  However, I love the idea of a (faux) fur collar or wrap!  It's the perfect touch of texture, helps keep your neck warm during the cold winter months, and is just so luxurious:






Want to add a little more fur than a collar, but don't want to get overpowered by a coat?  Try a cropped fur shawl, like the one Olivia Palmero is sporting here:


Fur looks amazing paired with her leather pants, although I think anything OP puts on would look amazing. 

Shop The Look:



So what's your take on fur details- love it or leave it?

Monday, November 11, 2013

Holiday Wishlist: Designs by Katy

Today I am excited to kick off my holiday wishlist series!  I know what you're thinking- it's not even Thanksgiving yet- but I figured it's never too early to start collecting inspiration. (right?!) For the next 6 weeks, I will be featuring a fellow blogger's holiday wishlist each Monday.  Today I am excited to have Katy Byrne of Designs by Katy!  I came across Katy's blog rather recently, and I love her crisp design aesthetic.  She lives in Denver and works as an interior designer, but was born and raised in Texas!  I'll let Katy take it away:

Shop Katy's Wishlist!
 


1.  I have been searching for a good bootie and I've learned I need one with a heel.  A flat bootie on me is a bit of a disaster.  This one looks perfect for skinny jeans and a sweater. 
 

2. I am a Tory Burch junkie.  It is my go-to splurge brand.  Every holiday season she comes out with some gifts for home, and this bone in-lay box is calling my name.  


3.  Loving these Nyla Tiger's Eye earrings from Kendra Scott.  I am a big fan of her line, and these are a little unexpected.  A few years ago, my New Year’s resolution was to start wearing earrings (I used to NEVER wear them, which is weird I know).  It's turned me into an earring addict. 

4. I live in Denver, and a coat for every occasion is an absolute must. Casual, work, formal, you name it.  My current casual wool coat is on its death bed, and I saw this JCrew Colorblock Duffle coat on Pinterest recently and cannot stop thinking about it.  Get in my closet.

5.  I'm really excited about all the leather this season, especially the accents.  This Anthropologie shift is the best meeting dress for an interior designer like myself. I think I would wear it until it fell apart. 


6. The current state of our door bell is really sad. At the moment we have a battery operated version that sounds like a dying cat.  This monogrammed door knocker is stunning. Not to mention I'm a sucker for anything monogrammed. 


7.  If you're not familiar with Fish's Eddy, you should be. Their cheeky line of dinner and kitchenware is one of my favorites.  This penthouse floor plan platter would be perfect for this interior designer's dinner parties. 

8.  Voluspa candles are my favorite.  Their scents are amazing and they last a long time.  This glass cut jar version not only holds my favorite scent, but looks beautiful on any end table. 

 

9. Now that I'm blogging, I'm constantly writing ideas, pulling pictures and sending emails.  This Kate Spade USB key chain is the perfect stocking stuffer. 
 

10.  Last but not least, I made the mistake of trying these Paige cargo pants on a few weeks ago and cannot get them out of my mind.  They would be perfect with a dressy black shirt and heels for work, or even a plain white t-shirt and those Ivanka Trump booties! 
 
Thanks for posting today, Katy!  I hope you will all go visit her blog, DBK, and say "Hi!"
 

Thursday, November 7, 2013

Black and Gold

Since the 2+ years my blog has been up and running, I've noticed my favorite hues changes with the seasons.  This past Tuesday, Albertina and I talked about our love of whites during winter, and today I am posting about my love of black and gold together.  It's funny because I looked back at my archives and noticed that I posted about this very color combo last year during this month.  Something about monochromatic looks with neutral hues just really does it for me in winter.  I love adding a touch of gold because it gives you that luxe feel and really elevates a look.  And, by now you know I go crazy for any furniture or decor that incorporates brass:










Shop This Board: 

Gold Leaf Coral III  $278/Gigi NY Embossed Python iPad Case $135/YSL Gold Bracelet $295/Nate Berkus Foil Print Throw Pillow $24.99/Zara Open Work Leather High Heels $90.99/Gramercy Brass Candlesticks $180/Kenzo Black and Gold Jacquard and Brocade Skirt $625/Worlds Away Cameron Tufted Chair $1,688/Tinley Road Chain Necklace $46/

That Worlds Away brass +velvet chair is everything.  It's making me consider giving my entire living room a zhush.  Are you a fan of this combo?!

Tuesday, November 5, 2013

Albertina Loves: Wintery Whites


{ YOU || coat | shirt | heels | cuff }

So happy to be here at The Peak of Tres Chic again!  This is Albertina from Mimosa Lane, back for our twelfth installment of the "We Love" series where Sam and I swap posts for the day.  Today Sam and I are focusing on cozy and fresh "Wintery Whites".  Long have passed the days where we could not wear white after labor day.  White is now the chicest color for the winter months, for both you and your home. 

I think a white coat is one of the dreamiest things to wear during the winter. I'm totally in love with this very inexpensive white shirt that I think adds interest to any outfit.  Who doesn't love a good ruffle? And these booties?! Oh My!  Sexy and edgy rolled into one.  Finish the outfit off with a little sparkle on your wrist and you will look as if you stepped off from one of the pages on a fashion magazine.

A white sofa fits just so nicely right about in any type of home.  Add some metallic pillows like this one and this one and some blues and purples and you have an elegant yet relaxed corner to cozy up during the winter months.

Do you like white in the colder months?  Or is it just me?  Come check out Sam's wintery white picks over at Mimosa Lane.