coco+kelley

GET THE LOOK:: DISTRESSED DENIM SKIRT

noreply@blogger.com (Cristina Cleveland) — Thu, 24 May 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Hey ladies! It's Cristina from Fuji Files here, and I thought it'd be fun to continue our discussion of denim pieces that got a lot of love in high school (did you see the jean jacket post?). This week, I bring you the denim skirt! This rendition is all grown up in a ladylike pencil silhouette with an unexpected edge: a distressed denim finish.

I often have a hang-up paying good money for clothing with holes in them, I think it's because I can hear my parents in my head saying "you paid for that ripped skirt??" so I highly recommend finding a piece in your closet that doesn't get much use and distressing it yourself! There are tons of great tutorials for creating just the right rip, and that way you can control how much or how little you distress your look.

I can see this piece becoming a go-to this summer as the dressed up version of the ubiquitous cut-off shorts, what do you think?

bag // belt // nail polish // necklace // skirt // shirt // shoes

*images via: garancedore, loveisblind, aportablepackage

WIN MY BREAKFAST BAR!

noreply@blogger.com (cassandra @ coco+kelley) — Wed, 23 May 2012 20:00:00 +0000

Hi, I'm Cassandra and I'm addicted to rearranging. Yes, it's a problem, but the first step is admitting it right? The second step, of course, is securing an apartment with plenty of storage space for collections of dishes, glassware (which we've already talked about today), vases, and candlesticks so you have ample space to hide all your styling props. Check!

Exhibit A of my addiction - I've already changed a few things around on what I call my 'breakfast bar' since the photo shoot a few weeks back...

I love the way these recycled glass vases from West Elm look in the light, so I've moved them all into the kitchen! Now that my espresso machine is getting quite a workout these days, I cleared some more space on the counter for latte-making duties.

And on the floating shelf? Well, that's just too good to mess with. But we have a pitcher for morning OJ and a modern cream & sugar set too. Everything a girl needs. And guess what? We're giving 'em all away.

Thanks to West Elm, the pitcher, creamer & sugar holder (yes it comes with that little bamboo tray), a floating shelf, a set of three glass vases and a pair of the flatware tea towels are all going to go home to one lucky winner so you too can experience the joys of rearranging with all your new goodies! It may not be the whole breakfast bar... but it's a good start!

To enter, just leave a comment letting us know where you'd style all these new pieces in your home! We'll draw the winner in one week. Good luck!

GLASSY EYED

noreply@blogger.com (cassandra @ coco+kelley) — Wed, 23 May 2012 16:29:00 +0000

Some may think my selection of glassware a little excessive, but when I see cupboards like this one I just get giddy! I know many of you are the same - you've picked up fun little vintage pieces or a set of a few glasses that you just couldn't walk away from...

Well, I love the idea of collecting a few pieces in similar colors to compliment each other - in the cupboard or on the tabletop. So in case you're shy a few options... a little summer glassware roundup!

william-sonoma // green water glass ikea // DVF goblet // cost plus amber tumblers //

horne set of lowballs // anthropologie hobnail // iitalia green tumbler // glassbaby lowballs //

zara home set of highballs // ikea cobalt lowball

What's your favorite??

HIGH POINT :: FASHIONABLY LATE

noreply@blogger.com (cassandra @ coco+kelley) — Tue, 22 May 2012 19:30:00 +0000

It's a fact that I'm usually about 10 minutes late wherever I go. Something I've been working on lately and I think I've gotten much better at. But a month late to post? This is ridiculous.

Between my trip to High Point Market and now, there has been so much going on that I haven't been able to sit down and focus on selecting all my favorites ... until now! I thought we'd start with one of my sponsors - Thomasville and Drexel Heritage - before we move into some trends and other showrooms.

You may remember that I visited these same showrooms last market (which you can read about here and here) so I'm going to skip some of the stuff we've covered before and go straight to my favorite new additions.

I obviously loved these chairs.... LOVED. If I had a dressing room , these would be in there in a hot second! The deco style with that starburst fabric made them look totally vintage. Plus, they swivel. Who doesn't love a swivel?

Here's a better shot of the chairs, without me in them. Another cool thing that Thomasville has been working on is their custom ottoman program (they also come in square sizes). I think we've seen such a resurgence of ottomans and little stools being used in living spaces, it's great to know that this retailer has such custom options!

A lot of what I was really drawn to at Thomasville was the attention to details in their upholstery programs. Beautiful tufting and tucking and skirting and shapes - along with perfectly chosen fabrics - made a huge difference in their line. Pieces felt a little more special!

On to Drexel... The new introductions here were called 'Vintage Originals' and played off of the idea of taking really classic or vintage pieces and adding a new dimension to update them.

For example - the pulls on this very classic chest were in a high-shine nickel instead of your typical brass, giving them a modern feel. This worn leather chair was simply stunning - it looked like it could have been 100 years old with the technique they use for the fabric. But it was really the nailhead detail and shape of the piece itself that got me!

Something I noticed a lot of in the showroom - contrast detail. And not in welting where we usually see it, but in the finishes, which I really loved. Plus, look a these gorgeous shapes! A good line on a sofa or chair can make me swoon - and that console needs to find its way right into my home!

Another win in the textile department for Drexel! They always find a way to stay on trend with their fabric choices. These all felt very fashion forward to me - the tropical and the tie-dye especially - with the tweed feeling quite Chanel. And apparently I was very obsessed with chairs on this trip.

And last, but certainly not least - the bar stool room. You guys. It is so hard to find a good custom bar stool. I think it's something that people have been asking for more of in the market and I was thrilled to sit in all of these little beauties (I wish I had gotten a better photo!). The bench seat was my favorite!

Much more market reporting to come throughout the week!

HOLDING COURT

noreply@blogger.com (cassandra @ coco+kelley) — Tue, 22 May 2012 15:01:00 +0000

As we creep slowly into summer around here, I have to say that I'm beginning to wish my apartment offered a little bit out of outdoor space to enjoy the sunshine in... privately. Don't get me wrong - I live one block from a lake and I love it, but it gets ridiculously crowded on a nice day. What I'd really love is... a courtyard.

There's something magical about these spaces. You disappear into your own world the second you step into one. Surrounded by high walls covered in vines... potted trees... cobblestones under your feet...

Even in the largest city, these spaces offer a little oasis where when you look up, all you see is the sky, and really, you could be anywhere.

If you're as lucky as Miss Moss, here, you even get a little balcony action. But there is hope for us small space dwellers too. Even the tiniest patch of a patio can be transformed into an urban oasis with enough effort...

Do you remember this infamous Domino shot? They created a little patio with fake (yes fake) boxwoods and real shrubbery. And that tiny little tent that I'm not sure has a purpose (perhaps a chic way to cover outdoor storage?) I have half a mind to go cordon off a parking space next to our lovely little brick building and recreate this myself...

*images via mark sikes as featured in house beautiful, the selby, charlotte moss via mrs. blandings, domino

GO BIG OR GO HOME

noreply@blogger.com (cassandra @ coco+kelley) — Mon, 21 May 2012 19:04:00 +0000

I was born with straight hair. Actually, it was even a little blonde (I swear, I have proof), but by the time I hit junior high I started getting waves. By high school, they were full on curls, and I had no idea what to do with them. I also have proof of this somewhere, but I'm not sure I'm ready to share that yet. Let's pretend it looked like this:

Since then I've been learning to manage the curls in the Seattle rain, but on days like today (when it's rainy and warm) I kinda want to just say forget it and let them do their thing!

What do you think? Crazy, or fab? Do any of you have curly hair? What products do you love to use to tame them?

I'm heading to my hairdresser this afternoon... maybe I'll have her work a little magic and see if we can make this look happen... just for fun. Stay tuned!

*images via pinterest, wit + delight, unknown, federica erra

HOW TO WEAR IT :: TROPICAL PRINTS

noreply@blogger.com (cassandra @ coco+kelley) — Mon, 21 May 2012 12:30:00 +0000

If you happened to peek at the last issue of Rue, you may have noticed my infatuation with the tropical print trend. It speaks to my inner sunshine girl, and my totally amends my aversion to florals. Because somehow, tropical florals seem way edgier. Naturally, I've got to find a way to squeeze them into my wardrobe for summer...

I've been doing my homework, and I've decided there are clearly a few ways to do this. My favorite looks are paired with leopard and chambray, but I like the risky addition of lace too. And then, of course, there's just good old fashioned nudes, which look fabulous with a summer tan.

I'm a safety girl (name that movie!) 85% of the time. On an average day, I would totally rock something similar to this. Peek-a-boo floral bustier with high waisted shorts, covered with a chambray blouse (because I'm 30 and I can't just go traipsing around in a bustier) and leopard print sandals. Little pops of pattern, just enough to feel edgy. But the rest of the time?

I'd go bold and badass with a totally tropical print dress and for my 'lace'? This laser-cut McQueen jacket (this isn't reality, remember?), a pop of yellow in a skinny belt to tie in the tropical print Proenza Schouler clutch (that I've been lusting after for months) and some cheetah print kitten heels. Rowr. I know, I know. It's a little much. But that's the point, right?

How would you wear your tropical prints? I think I'm going to have to do some hunting for vintage tropicals for the wardrobe... those ones are always the best!

*inspiration images via street peeper, atlantic-pacific, stockholm streetstyle, elle

FILL ME UP

noreply@blogger.com (cassandra @ coco+kelley) — Fri, 18 May 2012 15:34:00 +0000

On Monday of this week, I shared with you my 'Things I'm Afraid to Tell You" post. On Monday I also cried like 20 times reading all the comments and emails that poured in after that post. Not only were you all so supportive, but many of you related and shared your own fears, frustrations and weaknesses. Another thing I should just tell you know is that I hate crying. Especially in front of people. So I'm glad I read all those comments in the comfort of my own home that evening, and not in the coffee shop earlier that day.

What surprised me the most about that post, though, was not only the comments I received from strangers or other bloggers, but from people who know me. Friends who rarely read the blog (or so I thought) and even my own dad who wrote me an email that turned me into a puddle of mush.

And it made me realize something.

We put so much of ourselves out there every single day - Tweeting away our little updates, Instagramming little moments, and sometimes even posting a bit about ourselves on our blogs. And, because of that I felt like I was sharing so much of myself already, that I didn't really feel a need to share more. But what I was sharing was so surface level that it didn't really tell you much. Apparently. So I'm going to work on that. And I promise this blog won't turn into a 'Dear Diary' moment every week, but I will try and extend some of the deeper conversations I have with other bloggers and good friends onto the pages of coco+kelley. Because you should be a part of those conversations too.

Ok, so before this gets any longer, what I'm really just wanting to say here is THANK YOU. For your support, your comments, your tweets, your emails (some of which I have yet to answer - sorry!), and your friendship. My cup runneth over.

Wishing you all a very lovely little weekend!

*image by eric guillemain, edited by coco+kelley via fgr

FOODIE FASHIONISTA :: COCKTAIL DRESSES

noreply@blogger.com (Crissie Fuller) — Thu, 17 May 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Well hello there coco + kelley readers! Crissie of Chicasaurus-Rex here, guess what time it is? Yup, that's right. It's Foodie Fashionista time. This week I'm going a little cocktail crazy - dresses and drinks! With summer just around the corner I can't stop obsessing over fancy frocks. Add a couple refreshing beverages and you've got the recipe for a perfect summer evening. Cheers!

cocktail // dress // clutch // shoes // earrings

cocktail // dress // clutch // shoes // necklace

Do you have a go-to summer drink? What about a dress to go with it?

xoxCrissie

TO THE SEA...

noreply@blogger.com (cassandra @ coco+kelley) — Wed, 16 May 2012 21:27:00 +0000

You may remember a few weeks back when I mentioned I was working on a seaside inspired wedding tabletop for The Everygirl. I wanted to create something that felt very 'Seattle' - but that could also be appreciated by beach lovers everywhere. Well, today the feature is up, and I couldn't be happier! But I thought I'd share some of the beautiful images, captured by James Moes, here as well...

We shot the table at a local restaurant here in Seattle, Frank's Oyster House & Champagne Parlor. Let's just say the food is as delicious as the decor, and the owners are super cool on top of it.

The first time I visited, I fell in love with the walls, and I knew it would be perfect for this shoot! The rawness lends that perfect sea-worn look, and feels so Seattle. I also wanted to shoot indoors - not only because of our unpredictable weather, but because that's where most wedding receptions are really held. For me, I'd love to rent out a restaurant for my own reception. So intimate.

I didn't want to go overboard with decoration on the table or anywhere else - chairs included. We drilled small holes in these large clam shells and strung them up for the bride & groom chair, added some loose ribbon, and called it good!

For a beautiful wedding tabletop, I like to look to texture to create interest, and my vision for this setting was to add elements that were reminiscent of the ocean without it getting too literal. Every piece was selected for that reason. From the favors (Linnea's Lights Candles in Sea Salt) to the frames (from West Elm) that I used for the table numbers.

The insanely talented McKenzie Powell did the flowers for the table, and I couldn't have loved them more. She and I met almost two years ago when I had her do the centerpieces for my 30th birthday, and I may never use another florist again - she's so good at seeing my vision and creating the perfect style to compliment whatever look I'm going for!

And that cake! It completed the table. So a huge thanks to the gals at Baked for creating the perfect centerpiece.

Above all, working with such an awesome team of people made this shoot so fun! One of those days that makes you pinch yourself realizing that you're lucky enough to have work that feels so much like play.

For more of the table, please check out the full feature on The Everygirl!

*Thanks to Z Gallerie for lending the dishware, napkins and runner, Pedersen's rentals for the tablecloth, West Elm for the gold flatware and cake pedistal.

KITCHEN ENVY

noreply@blogger.com (cassandra @ coco+kelley) — Wed, 16 May 2012 15:06:00 +0000

As you saw on my apartment tour (or rather, didn't really see because there's not much to it!) my kitchen at home is fairly small. There is one tiny area to the left of the sink for counter space, which makes prep work a bit of a challenge for a girl who doesn't own a microwave. And while we're whining - doing dishes by hand after a dinner party has become the bane of my existence.

So when I started thinking about beginning a new cooking series on coco+kelley, I realized... shooting in this space is going to be practically impossible! So I'm building my own kitchen in my head, instead...

It's got a fireplace (What? It's chilly around here!), plenty of storage for my wine collection (which currently consists of about 6 bottles) and fresh groceries, gorgeous reclaimed wood with shiny brass hardware (because there's not enough gold in my house as it is) and the topper...

COUNTER SPACE. Preferably in cararra marble. It looks prettiest when shooting.

What elements would you add to your dream kitchen? (Excuse me, I have to go do some morning dishes now...)

*images: kitchen design by darryl carter, unknown, and tmag

INTERIORS TO INSPIRE :: CASUAL CHIC

noreply@blogger.com (Maggie Rose) — Tue, 15 May 2012 19:00:00 +0000

Maggie here, back with another Interiors to Inspire. This sweet little family apartment (and its inhabitants) has that je ne sais quoi that only the French can exude. Casually tossed together antique furniture, exotic textiles, modern budget pieces and tons of framed art make for a very personal and beautiful home.

In the living room, a low but comfortable table is spotted with kilim pillows. A coffee table is draped with a blanket or table cloth to add to the casual look. Folding stools can be easily rearranged and moved to add extra seating around the small apartment. White walls showcase a few of many pieces in the home. The look is eclectic without being cluttered or busy. Simplicity is key.

An office space sees the same white walls and gallery of artwork. The furniture continues to be a little time-worn and comfortable, but here the shape is more traditional, offset by a cool modern lamp. There's a great use of negative space that makes this small corner feel spacious.
One of the brighter spaces is the daughter's room, which makes great use of some of the brightest textiles in the home. Instead of a gallery of art work, an Indian toran (door or window decoration) hangs above the crib. The crib itself is modern and crisp (similar to the modern lamp in the office area). Although this space is more colorful than the others, it still feels simple and cheerful instead of busy or bright.

To get the look, we stick with comfortable furniture, textiles from around the world, artwork, and some time-worn traditional pieces.

To find an Indian toran, I searched ebay and Etsy for terms like "toran," "Indian textile," and "Indian wall hanging." Begin your own gallery wall with a framed abstract, like this from West Elm and hunt for affordable pieces on etsy, too. Folding stools are convenient and practical in a small space. Get the time-worn antique look with a dresser or console with cabriole legs and delicate hardware. This sofa is low, modern, and comfortable like the inspiration picture (upholster in green velvet for a close match!). Toss on some kilim pillows in a mixture of colors and patterns.

*photos (and full tour) from The Socialite Family.

ROCK IT OR KNOCK IT :: SUMMER LEATHER

noreply@blogger.com (cassandra @ coco+kelley) — Tue, 15 May 2012 14:03:00 +0000

Here in Seattle, we're not exactly known for our sweltering summers. A fact you probably know if you read this blog, um, ever. Because I like to whine about our lack of sunshine. However, today I'm choosing to celebrate the silver lining of this moderate climate... the fact that I can potentially wear leather all year round...

When I'm not donning an easy sundress in the summer, my go-to is most likely shorts and and a t-shirt. Which is cute, and all, but lacks a little oomph. Which is why I'm kinda sorta maaaaaaaybe considering the leather shorts this year. Because I can still keep it pretty easy with a perfect white tee, but throw on some pumps and rock it all day (and night).

And, if we're taking things to the next level...

Then you roll the sleeves, layer on a leather studded belt, up the hemline, and pray you've been working out hard enough to pull this off. I think this look is super badass. And highly unlikely unless my legs grow about five more inches.

What do you think? Are the leather shorts already old news? Or should I start hunting?

*images via miranda kerr and unknown

THINGS I'M AFRAID TO TELL YOU...

noreply@blogger.com (cassandra @ coco+kelley) — Mon, 14 May 2012 16:50:00 +0000

Every once in a while around here I like to start (or end) the week with a little bit about me - my plans for the weekend, upcoming trips or what I'm working on. Maybe throw in a motivating quote to get the week going. But today... today is going to be different, my friends. And a little wordy (so grab your coffee and stick with me here).

A couple of weeks ago a handful of amazing bloggers started what I'd like to think of as a mini-movement in the form of a post entitled "Things I'm Afraid to Tell You". In an effort to pull back the curtain of our happy, pretty little lives and talk about the reality of being bloggers, wives, not wives, moms, not moms, women, designers, creatives, and entrepreneurs, these bloggers all wrote their own posts revealing a little of their fears, insecurities and struggles. And I was thrilled.

See, for months now I've had posts started in my drafts folder that tackled this subject a bit. But every time I started them two things would happen (which are totally happening right this moment). 1) I'd stop and start editing. "This is too long! This is too crazy! This is more information than people care about!" I'd think to myself. Delete, delete, delete. 2) The moment I'd finally start writing about all of these things, I didn't know where to stop. There are so many personal things I could talk about. So many thoughts about blogging and being an entrepreneur. So many struggles and adventures being a single gal making things happen for herself. So I'd stop.

But then I'd keep having these conversations - with many of the bloggers who joined in on the first round of this challenge - about being authentic and how we've lost that closeness that we used to have when us 'older' bloggers first started. In fact, I received a comment after my Alt post in the beginning of this year that really really made me think about this. An anonymous reader said "One thing I would love to read more about: you! Who are you? What are you up to? What projects are you working on? I used to subscribe but don't anymore (I check in though!) because I don't get enough "connection" with your voice anymore. We are all excited to see things shake up around here - especially since you are one of the "originals!"

So here it is, you guys. I'm bringin' more Cass back. And you might think I'm a crazy, dramatic, whiner. Or you might see yourself in a little bit of my struggles. And I certainly hope you'll celebrate with me when there are victories.

Things I'm Afraid to Tell You... (and many more to come)

1. I am alone a LOT. It's something I love and hate. Does this mean that I'm lonely? Occasionally. I miss having coworkers, or roommates from time to time. But, I remember back when I lived with my ex-boyfriend, how much pressure there was to always be present in the relationship while trying to grow a small business and blog every day. Oh, did I mention I had a full time job at the time? He tried to be supportive, but honestly, he wasn't very understanding of where I was with my life then. And I didn't know how to give any more of myself. So now that I'm in a really good place with my blog and career, I'm insanely conscious of making time for friends and family - always trying to find that balance. But, I think I'm also really wary of dating because it's hard to find guys who understand that I'm still going to need to work my ass off for a little longer until I'm ready to settle into a relationship. And as I creep towards my mid-30's, I know that this is something I need to work on. Because I certainly don't want to be single forever! Which leads to #2 (and #3...)

2. I get jealous. Jealousy is such a horrid, unproductive emotion, but it's there. And the one thing I am truly jealous of are the ladies out there who have supportive husbands to lean on. Or even better - husbands that are incredibly involved in and help them to build their businesses. Luckily I don't get jealous in a crazy, downward spiral kind of way. Many of these gals are my friends, and the good thing is that they know how lucky they are (if they didn't I'd slap them silly!). Having that other person at the end of the day to share things with, to lean on, to help you grow and to make you turn your laptop off... that is priceless. I'm quite envious of the relationships I see that really function as a team, and I hope I'm lucky enough one day to have one.

3. I'm struggling to balance it all. When people ask what I do for a living, I kinda laugh and start rattling of a list. Well, I have a blog, so I maintain that - two posts a day every day during the week, plus managing advertising, insane amounts of emails, ongoing projects and more. Then I'm also the Market Editor at Rue Magazine, which takes a good chunk of time every month. I also have interior design clients which keep me busy.... on top of a lot of travel for speaking engagements or events... Are we exhausted yet? I am. You guys... I am completely exhausted. To the point of tears sometimes. To the point of forgetting to pay rent and bills and having a stack of paperwork and receipts under my desk in a brown paper bag that date back to January that I still need to file. To the point of being completely happy and yet totally pissed that on a Friday night all I want to do is stay in and watch a movie and not think about work for two hours. And, guess what? I'M TIRED OF IT. I want a freaking weekend that doesn't involve me trying to catch up on something. I know I am blessed - insanely blessed - to be where I am, but man has it been hard work. And I've been juggling blogging with something else for five years now. And I. Am. Tired.

4. I work in a world that's very materialistic. And (sometimes) I hate it. Let's switch the subject, just a teensy bit for a second. When I started blogging, it was to create a place where I could collect ideas, resources, things I aspired to have, places I aspired to live. I was cultivating a lifestyle that I admired and loved. I never claimed to actually live this life, or that I could afford it. Because I can't. I come from a pretty humble background (not poor, but middle class for sure), and I don't really understand a world where people can drop ridiculous amounts of money on the latest 'it' bag or shoes that cost more than some people make in a month. And yet, I blog about lots of those things. And I design homes for people who will spend hundreds of thousands of dollars to decorate with materials that I absolutely drool over, and I'm so glad they do, because it pays my bills. But it's also insane. So I want to make it really clear where I stand, because I know that a lot of the things I blog about are not reality for most people. Appreciate what you have - at whatever level that is. Surround yourself with beautiful things at whatever level you can afford. And know at the end of the day that none of the material stuff matters. But it sure is nice to look at.

5. There's so much more. Remember when I said earlier that once I start these posts, I don't know where to stop? I could keep going. I haven't told you about myself politically (fairly liberal) or spiritually (still figuring that out most days). Or how I have huge fears of failure and what people think that keep me from taking risks I should. Or how my biggest regret in life is building up way too much debt in my 20's. Or how much I think blogging has changed in the past five years (for better or for worse). But let's just save that for another day, shall we?

Overall, I'm pretty darn happy with my life. I get to do what I want and make a living off of it - which amazes me every day. I'm constantly working, but that's because I don't settle for mediocrity - so I know I put that on myself. I've reached a point at which I'm able to take more time off here and there, which is awesome. And I have the best friends and family a girl could ask for. So you know what? It's really is all good most of the time. But, it's also important that we as bloggers put out a realistic representation of our own lives once in a while. So, check out all the others joining in on the "Things I'm Afraid to Tell You" posts today for a little dose of reality. I know I'll be reading them all!

Meg: MIMI+MEG (thank you for organizing round two!) / Christine: Court & Hudson / Caitlin: Sacramento Street / Roxy: My Cup of Te / Crystal: Blog / Ashlina: The Decorista / Katie: Modern Eve / Erin: Apartment 34 / Erica: Design Blahg / Victoria: Vmac & Cheese / Christine: Miles to Style / Franki: Life in a Venti Cup / Sue: The Zhush / Erika: Radiant Republic / Gabrielle: Savvy Home / Mackenzie Horan: Design Darling / Monika: The Doctor's Closet / Naomi: Design Manifest / Tobe: Because It's Awesome / Becca: {extra}ordinary wonders / Lynzy: Sparkling Footsteps / Hitha: Hitha On The Go / Sarah: Note To Self / Liz: So Much To Smile About / Sarah: Blogstar / Alissa: The Goods Design / Jessie: Style & Pepper / Erika: Small Shop Studio / AV: Long Distance Loving / Maggie: Maggie Rose Blog / Nicole: The City Girl In Me / Priscilla: The Best Laid Plans / Jen: Concrete Jungle DC / Janelle: Food Fashion Fitness / Natalie: East Coast Chic

AND a huge thanks to Jess for her initial post, and to Ez for starting the movement!

LET'S HAVE A LITTLE HOUSEWARMING!

noreply@blogger.com (cassandra @ coco+kelley) — Fri, 11 May 2012 13:57:00 +0000

The best part of finally finishing of my apartment? The excuse to throw a housewarming party of course! Of course, considering that I've been living here for months now, I don't really need things like paper towels and can openers (although I am running low on trash bags right now... BYOTB?).

So, what does one bring to a housewarming party for the apartment that already has it all? Well, I have a few suggestions...

Any hostess with a sense of humour would appreciate a cheeky banner for the party (I know I would!), but a fail safe gift is always a nice bottle of champagne! But I realize that many of us don't like to play the guessing game when it comes to giving good gifts. So, I've done my guests a favor and used this new little registry site called All I Really Want to create a whole wish list of goodies! Some realistic, some probably not (hey, I've got rich friends). It's like the pinterest of registry sites. You don't have to be having a baby or getting hitched to use it - it's actually pretty cool. And of course, unlike pinterest you can actually tell when an item has been purchased. Because nobody likes returning gifts.

To find all my pretty sources (and see more of my favorite housewarming gifts) hop on over to my registry page! I think I'm gonna start using this for all sorts of parties....

KELLY + COBALT

noreply@blogger.com (cassandra @ coco+kelley) — Thu, 10 May 2012 15:23:00 +0000

I'm having a color moment...

Rich blues paired with kelly green is a pretty preppy combo (as inspired by the J.Crew lookbook), but it doesn't have to mean preppy styling. I think I'm going to dig through my closet today to see how I might be able to pull this off in a totally different way (as inspired by the Moroccan tile). How would you wear it?

*images via jcrew fall 2012 lookbook and grant k. gibson

GETTIN' SKINNY

noreply@blogger.com (cassandra @ coco+kelley) — Wed, 09 May 2012 20:05:00 +0000

We've seen a lot of thick stripes on walls lately. But if that look is a little to bold for your taste, might I suggest something a little more slimming?

I'm diggin the look of these classic skinny stripes. Vertical, not horizontal, making the rooms elongate - just like they do on your body! And if you're feeling extra brave, you can layer your skinny striped sofa with your skinny striped walls. Boomtown.

*images via domino mag and julian wass

GET THE LOOK :: RED & TURQUOISE

noreply@blogger.com (Cristina Cleveland) — Wed, 09 May 2012 12:30:00 +0000

I'll be the first to admit I went a little gaga for pink and red last Spring, and now I'm looking to change things up! Cristina from Fuji Files here to inject a bit of turquoise into the mix, and I love blue like Cass loves kelly green, so it shouldn't be hard!

You'll notice that all of these fashionable ladies dared to wear looks that are practically neutral-free, challenging us to abandon our 'pop of color' mantra and go for all-out color! I'm feeling inspired yet slightly intimidated by these bold blocks of red and blue but I'm determined to give it a try this season, who's with me?!

For this look I chose a classic red dress, in which I would like to pretend I'm in Italy (even if I'm really just at the grocery). For an easy way to bring in that second dose of color, try a bright pair of sandals or flats! When I'm wearing a bold look like this I like to keep my makeup simple with a lip stain or even just lip balm, then throw on a hat and we're ready for summer!

*resources: dress J.Crew, hat ASOS, lip balm Smith's Rosebud Salve, rings AILI, glasses Urban Outfitters, clutch Anthropologie, shoes Belle by Sigerson Morrison

*images via: elle, thesartorialist, stockholmstreetstyle, altamira

C+K LOVES C&B

noreply@blogger.com (cassandra @ coco+kelley) — Tue, 08 May 2012 18:30:00 +0000

Now that you've all seen my little apartment, I thought I'd share with you a little about the process this week on coco+kelley! These things don't just happen overnight you know (although I really wish they did). For me, designing my own space came with plenty of challenges... and plenty of help!

Let's be honest. There's no way I could have completely filled this place with beautiful pieces in six months on my own. I'm not living in single blogger lap 'o luxury, rollin' in my bed of money every night. Which is why I feel insanely grateful for the businesses that helped contribute pieces to my home - especially Crate & Barrel.

When hunting for someone to partner with on designing my space, I knew Crate & Barrel would be on the top of my list. Not only do I love the mix of furniture and accent pieces, but add all the options for tabletop and kitchen, and they've got pretty much everything this girls needs to complete a home!

I spent hours going through the shelves of dishes and glassware, picking out some of my favorite everyday pieces for the house. I ended up with stemware from the Tour collection - the champagne glasses you have all be asking about - and stocked up on Aspen dinnerware for everyday use.

Then came the fun (and challenging) part. Fabric!

Have you even spent time in the C&B fabric area? I don't think a lot of people realize how many really great options they offer for upholstery pieces. Being on a bit time crunch to finish my space off, I had to limit myself to in-stock options, so I pretty much lived in this section for a month straight trying to choose which direction to go with for my Sasha Armchairs.

The sales associates were incredibly helpful (and patient!) as I pulled down fabric after fabric, sizing it up, figuring out if I wanted solid or pattern, color or neutral. I finally ended up with the yummy "Cambridge Camel" that you see in my living room, and I love it. It's so nice to have pieces that feel a little more custom than ordering off the floor, and it's so easy to do in the store!

After settling on fabric, it was play time in the kitchen department! Because I come from a cookin' family I already had lots of pieces in my home, but there was one I knew I reallllllly wanted....

What Seattle home would be complete without an espresso machine?? This Breville is amazing - built in grinder, foolproof settings while I learn to get professional, and a sleek little design. I even nerded out over the espresso cups (yes I bought that one).

Whew! What hard work right?

I'd like to think that those years (yes years) of struggling to make ends meet while pursuing my dream of being a full time blogger and designer have finally paid off when opportunities like this come my way. I feel incredibly blessed to be in a position where I can work with such great people on such an important project - my home! A huge huge thank you to Crate & Barrel for making it all possible!

*photography by nicole firestone at sunshine charlie

OBSESSION :: DEA ROSA RESORT

noreply@blogger.com (cassandra @ coco+kelley) — Tue, 08 May 2012 12:30:00 +0000

When it comes to bags, I usually invest in pieces that will carry me through many seasons, but when I spotted these summer colors at Dea Rosa I started rethinking my position...

Coral and white with gold hardware!? I mean... c'mon! It's too perfect!

This is oversize clutch is my second favorite - perfect for office to evening. Python and canvas make such a chic juxtaposition of luxe and natural materials - you know I'm such a sucker for those combinations!

MY HOME SWEET HOME!

noreply@blogger.com (cassandra @ coco+kelley) — Mon, 07 May 2012 12:30:00 +0000

Hopefully most of you had a chance to check out the latest Rue this weekend and see my place that I've been talking about forever. The apartment is finished (well, as finished as a designer's space ever is), and I'm so very happy to finally be enjoying it! Yes there will still be plenty of little updates here and there, but for now .... here she is!

Many of you have been asking for resources, and I'm happy to say that all of them are in the magazine - when you click on an item, if there is a source for it it will take you right there! But, to thank the many sponsors and stores that I had in helping to put this house together, I'm listing them all at the bottom of this post!

The little bar in my bookshelves might be one of my favorite details. As much as I love designing, my favorite part of any home is styling it all. It's my greatest strength and passion. Those bookshelves took hours to put together!

A little DIY - the gold gilding around the door frames for the closets in the hallway. There are literally four doors in this small area - two are closets, one goes to the bedroom one to the bathroom and one is the front door. We painted the closets to help make things a little more intuitional.

And then there's the bedroom. My beautiful little oasis...

When it's actually clean, it's my favorite room in the house. It's soothing and serene... and my bed is very hard to get out of in the morning!

Sources!! (If I've missed anything, just ask!)

Living Room
1. Sofa by C.R. Laine 2. Rug from Rugs USA 3. Armchairs from Crate & Barrel 4. Bookshelves by Crate & Barrel 5. Desk from West Elm 6. TV Cabinet from Home Decorators 7. Brass Trunk from 1st Choice Modern 8. Pagoda Pillow and Leopard Print Tray from Furbish 9. Yellow Pillow from West Elm 10. Orange Block Print Pillow from Cost Plus 11. Blue Dot Pillow from Ikea 12. Green Pouf from Maison Luxe 13. Holla Sign by Oh Dier 14. Floor Lamp at Lamps Plus 15. Artwork by coco+kelley

Dining Room
1. Table by Crate & Barrel 2. Buffet at West Elm 3. Chandelier at Z Gallerie 4. Lamps at Lamps Plus 5. Chinese Urns from Eastern Goods 6. Table Setting by West Elm

Bedroom
1. Artwork by Jennifer Ament 2. Headboard by Serena & Lily 3. Dresser by Nurseryworks 4. Chandelier by Crystorama 5. Lamp from Lamps Plus 6. Drapes by Crate & Barrel 7. Palm Pillow by Whitlock & Co.

*all the beautiful photography by belathee

NOW WE'RE COOKIN'

noreply@blogger.com (cassandra @ coco+kelley) — Fri, 04 May 2012 18:55:00 +0000

Look what we cooked up for you...

A new issue of Rue! With (the moment you've all been waiting for), my apartment tour! I'm so excited (and totally nervous) to hear what you all think. And yes that's my teensy little kitchen up there. Serious lack of counter space, but loads of character.

My home has been a labor of love and I will be sharing plenty more outtakes with you next week, but for now... scoot! Go read! Enjoy!

*photography by belathee

ALMOST THERE...

noreply@blogger.com (cassandra @ coco+kelley) — Fri, 04 May 2012 15:25:00 +0000

Do you have those times in your life where you feel like things are shifting? I've been having this feeling for about a month now, so I'm patiently waiting to see how things shake out. I'm on the verge of new beginnings, focusing on new projects for myself and coco+kelley, and taking some new directions...

And I know you guys are patiently waiting for the Entertaining Issue of Rue, right? Right. Me too. Almost there!!!

*images via nordstrom and once wed

IT'S LAUNDRY TIME. OHHHHH YEAAAAH.

noreply@blogger.com (cassandra @ coco+kelley) — Thu, 03 May 2012 17:43:00 +0000

Confession: I hate laundry. Like really, really, really hate laundry. Even more than doing it, I hate folding it. Clothing piles up in my room for weeks until I have to head off to a trip or am out of clean underwear and have to face the facts. *Sigh*... it's laundry day.

In college, I liked doing laundry. You never knew what cute boy you'd end up making out with...er... I mean folding clothes with in the laundry room. (That never happened. I swear. Ok, I'm lying.)

Of course, I had forgotten about this sexy side of laundry until I found myself at Method headquarters a few months ago where they like to talk about cleaning naked. A lot. But that's only becuase their product is so natural that you really could use it naked. (Are you uncomfortable yet? Just wait until I get to blog about the shower spray!)

So, I'm determined to bring sexy back to laundry. This is not yo mama's detergent. There is no scoop. There is no leaky spout. There is a pump. And with four little squirts of this highly concentrated clean goodness... your laundry is good to go. Which leaves more time for making out. So grab your Method, your dirty clothes and your favorite smooching partner. Things are about to get clean... er.

What's that? You don't have any Method? No problem. The first 10 of you to leave a comment on this post telling me your sexiest laundry story will get a little laundry starter kit!

Just a few more facts as shared by our lovely spokesinger, Noah:

*method detergent is 8x the concentration of most laundry detergents. this means you're saving packaging, and getting a lot more clean for your cash.
*no excess water in the solution means less energy and resources used for the making of the product so it's super green.
*95% plant based formula and 100% recyclable container. how's that for clean?

*this is a sponsored post by method. all opinions are 100% mine. for this month's method contest, head over to their facebook page! images via here and here edited by coco+kelley.

ROOM OF THE WEEK 5.2

noreply@blogger.com (cassandra @ coco+kelley) — Wed, 02 May 2012 19:57:00 +0000

Oh heavens, what do we have here? A home so worthy of a Room of the Week post, I couldn't wait another day to share!

At first glance - I'm not going to lie - I thought this was simply a dining room. But no no no - 'tis a kitchen my loves. A whitewashed, red-ticking adorned kitchen. With a bar so stunning I nearly missed the fact that it's flanked by not one, but two refrigerators. (Pray tell, where do they actually prep and cook everything? There must be a stove hidden around here somewhere.)

But let's also take a look at the rooms leading into the dining area, shall we? A wall of windows, a wall of mirror, and more layers of red and white. I don't know if it's purposeful, but I will say that the black accents in these spaces also help balance the looming flatscreens nicely.

Being the owner of a rather narrow apartment, I have to say I'm partial to this layout. Sometimes you have to go with the obvious, but this is just creative enough with the creation of separate living spaces here. Don't you love how you can look down the room and see that striped bar looking back at you all the way at the end? The common color theme, drapery and loads of white really keep it all flowing.

What do you think? I'm ready to move right in.

*interior design by luis bustamante. his site is worth a visit for the much larger photos and lovely soundrack!