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Monday, June 2, 2014

Inspired By: The Talented Mr. Ripley

 
Over the weekend, I was in the mood to watch a movie, but wasn’t sure what. As I scrolled through my Netflix queue, I stumbled on The Talented Mr.Ripley—a modern classic and personal favorite starring Matt Damon, Jude Law, Gwyneth Paltrow, Cate Blanchett, and Phillip Seymour Hoffman. If the stellar cast isn’t enough to make you want to watch it, then the beautiful scenery, wardrobe, and set design surely will. It had been at least a year since the last time I watched the movie, so I decided it was the perfect choice for a cozy Saturday night at home with a glass of Rose. Set in Italy during the late 1950s, the film follows Tom Ripley, played by Matt Damon as he is sent by a wealthy New Yorker to retrieve his aimless, libertine son, Dickie Greenleaf played by Jude Law. When Tom arrives in the sleepy Italian seaside village, he finds Dickie with his beautiful American fiancée, Marge, played by Gwyneth Paltrow and he proceeds to befriend them. We quickly find out that Tom has ulterior motives, many dark secrets, and a sinister side. The plot, as well as the scenery, unfold beautifully. I’m sure most of you have probably seen this film and consider it a favorite as well, but if you haven’t you should be sure to watch it as soon as you can!
 
The suspenseful plot is sure to stay with you for a while. It’s hard to get it out of one’s head, but the beautiful European scenery, splendid interiors, and the wardrobe, especially Marge’s are sure to leave you feeling inspired as well.
{Matt, Jude, and Gwyneth as Tom, Dickie, and Marge—they were so young! The movie was released in 1999.}

{Dickie and Marge lived la dolce vita, for sure.}
{Tom Joins Marge and Dickie for Drinks}

{Marge Looking Chic and Timeless}

{Tom and Marge before Everything turned Sour}
{Dickie and Tom}

{Tom and Marge in Rome}

{Tom, Dickie, and Marge during Happier Times}
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This Week's Quote

Friday, May 30, 2014

Fabulous Room Friday 05.30.14

benjamin vandiver

Earlier this week, Domaine featured Nashville interior designer, Benjamin Vandiver as their “Designer Crush” and I could easily see why. One glimpse at his beautiful work and I was smitten, too! While they featured a few of his projects on Domaine, this one in particular really struck a chord with me. I love the composition of the room and the graphic contrast of black and white. The palette is completely pared back, save for a few accents—the chic burlwood table, a pair of leopard throw pillows, and the striped silk pillow on the white club chair. Sometimes, the absence of bold colors and patterns can have more visual impact than a palette filled with them. Don’t get me wrong, I love the use of color and pattern, but there really is something to be said about restraint. This particular room feels lush, inviting, and even sexy thanks to the mix of textures, interesting shapes, and striking art. I look forward to seeing more of talented Benjamin’s work.

benjamin vandiver2 {The mix of sculptures, the burlwood table, vibrant white peonies, polished nickel reading lamp, and white upholstery are ultra-chic.}

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{Details on the Coffee Table}

Have a fantastic weekend!

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Thursday, May 29, 2014

Jet Set: Mystique in Oia Santorini, Greece

http://www.expedia.com
Hello LDV readers! Brendan here of B.A.D | Blog About Design. For today's Jet Set post I've decided to take us to the wonderful country of Greece. The Mystique Hotel, is set in the mountains of Oia Santorini. The hotel features a pool, spa and restaurant, as well as many nearby activities such as snorkeling, horse back riding, sailing, etc. This is the hotel to go to if you are looking for an escape. Personally, I can't wait to plan my trip. (ABOVE) The Cycladic architecture of the hotel screams Santorini, Greece. 
http://www.cntraveler.com 1
(1) The pool is wonderful. It is set overlooking the water and mountains; I can envision myself relaxing here and enjoying life!
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(2) The hotel's "Asian spa resort" is the perfect place to receive a facial, massage, or full body treatment.
http://mystique.gr/ 3
(3) This photograph gives you a clear idea of where things are located on the resorts property. In the center is the pool area, to the right is a lounge area, to the far left is the Aura bar and Charisma restaurant. The hotel has unobstructed views of the city and water. No other structures blocking your view.
http://mystique.gr 4
(4) At the Aura bar and Charisma restaurant you can enjoy fresh sea food, what else could you possibly want other than Mediterranean food on the Mediterranean?! This dish looks incredible--all that's missing is some wine from the hotels' 150 year-old wine cellar.
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(5) The suites are designed to put your mind at ease. No crazy colors or prints. Here you'll find simple, clean design, that allows Santorini's Cycladic to shine through. This suite is known as the "Vibrant" suite. It's the smallest of the suites.
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(6) The larger "Allure" suite features a separate living and sleeping space. I can really appreciate the architecture of this space. The hotel also features two other types of suites which are larger than this.
http://www.ronphillipstravel.com 7

Sponsor Spotlight: Gretchen Scott Designs

We are thrilled to welcome back one of our favorite sponsors, Gretchen Scott Designs, just in time for summer! Gretchen Scott is a purveyor of chic tunics, blouses, dresses, handbags, and accessories composed of classic silhouettes updated in bright colors and bold patterns. The Gretchen Scott collection features global influences from India and St. Barth’s to Palm Beach and the Hamptons—perfect for the stylish, jet-setting bon vivant! While the Gretchen Scott collection is filled with vibrant colors and inspired patterns and most designs are available in multiple color ways  I can't help but gravitate towards classic whites which are the perfect fit for summer, but work all year round. 

{The Dot Tunic in White}

{The Mixed Eyelet Tunic in White}

{The Holy Tunic in White}

{The Copacabana Tunic in White}

{The Cotton Frill Tunic in White}


{The Sleek Voile Tunic}

{The Wave Dress in White}



{The Brooks Dress in White}

The Gretchen Scott collection is available in Houston at A Bientot as well as on www.GretchenScottDesigns.com.