Sponsor Spotlight: Island Company

Winter is my least favorite season of the year. While we are lucky to have mild winters in Houston, I still find myself longing for warmer weather. Combine that with a hectic schedule and you’ll probably understand why I sometimes find myself dreaming of beautiful destinations like Palm Beach or Southern California. As a result, my partnership with Island Company could not be more timely! Headquartered in West Palm Beach, Florida, Island Company has continuously celebrated an authentic island experience with its “Escape. Travel.Live.” motto and popular linen and cotton dresses, tunics, and men's and women's swimwear since the company was launched in 2002 by founder, Spencer Antle.

{Clockwise from Top Left: White Vagabond Shirt | Medium Palm Leaf Tote | Nautical Stripe Bandeau Bikini | Forza Italia Sunglasses}

Over the last decade, Island Company has grown to be carried in 300 high-end boutiques and 5-star resorts around the world, and also operates six freestanding retail locations in fabulous resort destinations like Palm Beach, Naples, Nantucket, Martha's Vineyard, Grand Cayman and East Hampton. Most recently, Island Company opened a 2,300 square foot flagship store on Palm Beach’s iconic Worth Avenue. “I wanted this store to feel like an escapist ride and the clothes you take home at the end are mementos of the experience that can only be had at Island Company.” The expansion is expected to continue as two new stores planned for Hawaii and Las Vegas are slated to open in 2013. “It’s surreal to look back and remember that Island Company started with 13 bikinis that I came up with overnight. With men’s, women’s, sun care, eyewear and more in the works…it’s fun to think about what I’m planning on doing next.. The journey has been a lot of fun, but I’m only getting started…” says Antle. It’s so exciting to see Island Company’s growth! If you are planning a winter getaway or vacation come spring, be sure to check out Island Company’s chic and classic assortment of bathing suits, tunics, dresses, and accessories—I’ve included my top vacation must-haves in this post!

{Clockwise from Top Left: Blue Fin Halter Bikini  | Red Bamboo Handmade Necklace | White Relaxed Forever Shorts | Quit Your Job 24 oz. Tumbler}

For more on Island Company, visit them on their Blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

P.S. I'm at Design Camp in Atlanta! You can see some fun sneak peeks by following LDV on Instagram!

Anatomy of a Home: The Master Bathroom

Architectural Digest

Oh hiii there! It's Lauren with The Semi-Designed Life! I'm back with a squeaky clean version of Anatomy of a Home. It's time to dissect the master bathroom.

The bathroom above makes my inner "wish I lived in a marble yard" self want to reach into the picture and touch the cold beautifulness that are those slabs. Don't those marble moldings make your heart smile? Well, and your face smile, too?

Anatomy Lesson #1: Nobody walked into a marble bathroom and scoffed at the yuckiness. It kind of brings you back to the old days. Like the real old days. Like the days of bath houses and when bathing in a public forum was normal. Can I get an "amen" for indoor plumbing?!

Greg Stewart

This bathroom is bright, clean and serene mostly due in part to the natural, soft light.

Anatomy Lesson #2: Consider three sources of lighting in your bathroom. Think about it. You're going to be strutting around in your birthday suit a lot in this mirror-clad room. You do not want to relive horrific bikini dressing room syndrome every day... 

Elle Decor

Speaking of mirrors... consider the placement of your mirrors. For me, it would probably be a "just the one over the sink" kind of a relationship. But mainly that's because clearly unlike the brilliant Miles Redd, I don't have twenty-three housekeepers to Windex my bathroom every day.

Miles Redd

Nor do I have the amazing ability to fly around in a top hat!

Anatomy Lesson #3: If you have plenty of help, mirror the daylights out of your bathroom. Especially if you have stock in Windex, the ability to fly like Miles Redd or a sensational top hat!

Elle Decor

When cohabitating in a bathroom scenario it's best to keep the little boys and little girls separate. For me, it's best to keep them in entirely separate bathrooms. But, if you must "love the one you're with" hopefully you can love them from your own sink.

Anatomy Lesson #4: Boys are yucky. Simple as that.

Luxe Magazine

In the bathroom of my dreams, space is no object. This coming from a girl whose bathroom is smaller than most people's coat closets. Anyhow, it's my dream to have a real live grown up make up putting on station.

Anatomy Lesson #4: Girls need a place to store their war paint. And stare at their pores for hours on end like Charlotte on Sex and the City. You know you do it.

 

Jet Set: The Parker Palm Springs

http://www.amandafriedman.com

Hello LDV readers! Brendan here of (BAD) Blog About Design. For this Jet Set post I decided to take us to a desert location! I'm starting to make my summer plans and this place looks pretty nice! The The Parker Palm Springs is located in Palm Springs, California. The hotel's architecture is quiet reminiscent of 60s California architecture. Very bold graphically, and with subtle pops of color, modern. The hotel is designed by Jonathan Adler, and walking through the hotel one will quickly realize with the amount of vases, and sculptures seen, which Adler is so known for. (ABOVE) The front of the hotel is extremely eye catching. Guests are greeted by a bright orange door and intricate architecture. (BELOW 1) There are many things one can do on the grounds. There is a tennis court, croquet, manicured gardens for a refreshing walk, a spa, as well as a golf course right behind the hotel. (BELOW 2) If the pool is where you want to spend your time, then you won't be disappointed. With wonderful views of the mountains, and palm trees, who wouldn't want to relax here? (BELOW 3) At night, the pool deck is beautifully lit. Looks so romantic! (BELOW 4) For brunch, you can dine at Norma's. I love all the color and energy of the restaurant. It feels so homey and relaxing. For diner, you can dine at Mister Parker's. (BELOW 5)  When choosing your room you can either stay in a Estate King Room, Deluxe Double, Junior Suit, or Villa. The Estate King Room is the smallest and most affordable. The Villa is the largest, an 800 square foot villa, with private patio and views. The featured suite is the Estate King Room. Pretty nice, huh? What do you think of the Parker? Have you been here before?

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(1) Acne Satya Tape Tiered Georgette Dress, (2) Dannijo Paz Earrings, (3) See by Chloe Silk Organza Top, (4) Jean-Michel Cazabat Ella Suede d'Orsay Pumps, (5) Jonathan Saunders Harmont Degradé Jacquard Skirt, (6) Desert Chic, (7) Rebecca Minkoff Straw Clutch with Leather Trim, (8) Linda Farrow Luxe Python Curved Square Sunglasses, (9) Bloch Crochet Knit and Leather Ballet Flats, (10) The Hotel

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My Favorite Room: Caitlin Flemming

Thank you Paloma for having me as a guest to share my favorite room. It's tricky to pick one part of our studio apartment as my favorite because we essentially live in one room, but I have to say, I am currently loving our living room area. It's the part of our apartment that we don't end up using all too much, but since I now work from home, I find it as the place I want to sit and read at night or cuddle up on to read magazine and drink a cup of tea.

Another reason I love our living room is because it's constantly evolving. I'm always rotating the art above the couch, changing out the coffee table books, even changing the coffee table. It's a fun way to feel refreshed without changing large pieces in my home.

A living room is also the place where family and friends gather when they come over - there are so many memories that have been made around this space.

Lastly, I think it's important to have pieces that have meaning and stories behind them in your living room. We have treasures we've picked up around the world - a cross from Santa Fe, metal hearts that have our vows inside them and then Polaroid’s from trips or parties we've hosted (friends love looking through them). It's a fun way for them to get to know us better and a great conversation starter!

I hope you've enjoyed this little peek into our living room, and thank you Paloma for having me! If you want to see more of our space please pop over to Sacramento Street! Photo by Caitlin Flemming

Home Tour: Jordan Carlyle

Several months ago, I blogged about New York interior designer, Jordan Carlyle’s chic office space. Naturally, I was thrilled when he reached out to send me some photos of the rest of his apartment which he had recently completed designing. Located in Manhattan’s Financial District, just off of Wall Street, Jordan’s chic apartment is housed in the William Beaver building originally developed by Andre Balaz. Jordan selected a warm palette of soothing grey and cream hues accented with pops of color. The selection of furniture (much of which is from his own line, Carlyle Collective) and accessories is modern with a touch of glamour—a combination I’ll never tire of.

{Jordan’s Beautifully-Styled Coffee Table}

{For the dining room, Jordan paired Carlyle Collective Tristan chairs upholstered in a warm ikat with a sculptural chandelier.}

{A Cozy Nook Ideal for Reading or Watching the Hustle and Bustle of the City}

{I previously featured Jordan’s fabulous office and I still love the great mix of modern and eclectic pieces. I love the black inspiration wall and the pops of color found throughout the room. The brass accents from the Goodman Pendant hanging overhead to the trim on the leather desk chair and the vase add modern glamour to the space.}

{Glamorous Details}

{The View from the Hallway into the Office—Notice the Silver Grasscloth in the Hall}

{In the master bedroom, Jordan opted for a warmer palette than in the common areas of the home. Here, he’s selected the Henry Bed by Carlyle Collective with an oversized, tufted chocolate headboard and sheets, accented with a Missoni throw, cream grasscloth wallcovering, and a lovely mix of fabrics on the throw pillows and drapes.}

{This Phillip Armoire is stunning!}

{Jordan’s Master Bath is sleek and streamlined. Notice the panels that open from the bath tub into the bedroom.}

{All Images Courtesy of Jordan Carlyle Designs}

This Week's Quote

Fabulous Room Friday 01.25.13

While I’ve always had a penchant for glamour, I have been majorly crushing on the ultra sexy, masculine meets feminine brand of 1970s glam as of late and this spectacular dining/living area designed by Nate Berkus is the perfect embodiment of that look. The show-stopping Martinique wallpaper (explored by Lindsay in this “Style Spotting” earlier this week) is the perfect foundation for the space—lush and evocative of the Beverly Hills Hotel which always equals glamour in my book. The rest of the space, which happens to be shoe designer, Brian Atwood’s apartment in Milan, is punctuated with amazing pieces which are showstoppers on their own, but even more so in harmony in one space as they are here. How insane are the brass table and vintage black leather and brass Pace chairs?

In the living area, Nate selected a fabulous vintage Arredoluce Triennale floor lamp, mirrored coffee table, and vintage Pedro Friedeberg hand chair, which Erika delved into in this installment of “Design Under the Influence”. The floor to ceiling mirrored walls lend an airy quality to the space and maximize the presence of the wall swathed in the Martinique wallpaper.

There are even more fabulous pieces in this corner of the room, my favorite being the brass and glass desk. This room is ultra chic and sexy. It brings to mind Lauren Hutton, Bianca Jagger, Halston, Studio 54 and everything else that was the epitome of glamorous style in the 1970s.

What is your favorite element in this space? Bon weekend!

{Image Source: Nate Berkus}

Strategies for Success: Building the Best Team

Hi Everyone! Melanie Duncan of the Entrepreneuress Academy here. As a business owner I've learned the hard way what to do, and NOT to do when it comes to adding people to your team. So today I'm going to share with you my best strategies for hiring the right people.

Would you like more help running your business, but feel overwhelmed by the daunting task of having to hire and train someone?

Do you stop yourself from letting people help you because you feel that no one can do it as well as you?

One of the reasons that so many business fail is because people overestimate how much they can accomplish alone, and they underestimate how important a good team truly is.

Watch the video below to hear my story and learn my proven strategies.



So there you have it! It doesn't seem so bad when you lay it out like that right?

Thank you for taking the time to watch my video (even the silly bloopers at the end). I hope that you found the information helpful.

Now I want to hear from YOU!

Please comment below and share any advice that you have about hiring people. I can't wait to hear what you have to say.

Fab Valentine’s Gift Ideas

Hi, lovelies! I’ve partnered with Fab to bring you a fabulous round-up of gift ideas for Valentine’s Day! From chic and romantic to downright cheeky, I’ve pulled together a few of my favorites from this quirky and unique online retailer whose product assortment includes everything from jewelry and clothing to home décor and furniture. Be sure to check in often for one of a kind finds as new items arrive at Fab everyday!

{1. Is there a city more romantic than Paris? This set of Paris postcards are perfect for giving on Valentine’s Day and then framing in a series. | 2. I love pretty rings and this Mint and Gold ring goes with just about everything! | 3. How fabulous are these Inside Out Champagne Flutes? | 4. Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion for indulging in these Richart Macarons. | 5. Champagne Candles always smell so crisp and refreshing. If you can’t be with your Valentine to share a bottle of champagne, send a Rewined Champagne Candle instead!}

{6. The edgy design of this Darling Necklace is the perfect match for the sweet message. | 7. This Saachi Heartwarming Scarf is so adorable that you could wear it way beyond Valentine’s Day! | 8. Druzys, pyrite, and agate are still all the rage in home design. This pair of Druzy Stud Earrings is a great way to bring the trend into your wardrobe. | 9. The only thing I love more than a cocktail ring is a BIG, statement cocktail ring! The color of this Amethyst Ring is rather romantic, isn’t it? | 10. You can sport this Social Department Tee and watch Dirty Dancing with your honey for a romantic night in. | 11. If you decide you’d like to be single this Valentine’s Day, this “It’s Not You, It’s Me” necklace might help you to get your message across!}

{This post is brought to you in partnership with Fab. All opinions and commentary are my own.}

Style Spotting: Chic in Martinique

Hi La Dolce Vita readers, it's Lindsay from The Pursuit of Style and I'm back with another edition of Style Spotting. I don't know about you, but around this time of year I'm desperate for a vacation. Resort lines have hit the shelves and it seems like just about everyone has just come back from spending the New Year in Round Hill or Harbour Island. I might not be able to offer the real thing, but I can provide a little virtual escapism to somewhere leafy and chic.

Let me introduce you to Hinson's legendary wallpaper, Martinique. It's most famous for gracing the walls of the Bevery Hills Hotel, but I happen to prefer Nicky Hilton's dining room, shown above. Paired with hot pink chairs and a pagoda chandelier, the effect is undeniably tropical. An old favorite that I was immediately reminded of after seeing these MICHAEL by Michael Kors palm print skinny jeans among this season's resort collection items.

Diane Von Furstenberg Mateo Dress | Palm Frond Pillow | Society Social Darlington Armchair | Charlotte Olympia Sandals

If you're not ready to commit to an entire room (or pants) done up in palm fronds, here are a few items that will help you achieve the look in a slightly subtler fashion. Martinique here we come!

I hope you enjoyed this month's edition of Style Spotting and if you are headed somewhere tropical, I'd love to know where.