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Sunday, February 11, 2018

Beyond Be-Leaf! - The Beauty and Style of Leaves



 I am totally infatuated with leaves.  Yeah, I know it sounds a lil weird but as long as I long as I could remember.  Leaves has always been a fixation for me.  I grew up in the Bahamas where the tropical plant life is in abundance so perhaps this was the beginning of my leaf-mania. Who knows. :)  

Leaves to me, represent life.  They are true representations  of nature, tranquility and freedom. 

Leaves are powerful.

 They can transport you to a tropical island without ever leaving your home. 


Source: Overstock
Prints by ALDARIART

Leaves, especially tropical leaves, are the perfect way to infuse your home with that island style many of us crave. Ferns, palm branches and banana leaves are wonderful accents to your decor. You can also feature various leaves as framed wall prints, trendy wallpaper, or as fabric prints like throw pillows, bedding, throw rugs or curtains.

Leaves are perfect for formal events, because they are so versatile!  Most of us envision green when we think of a leaf but leaves come in a wide array of colors including multicolored, pink, yellow, orange, purple, green, brown, gray and even blue. Leaves also comes in an abundance of different shapes. Because of this fact, it is perfect for just about anything decorative, which includes floral arrangements and wedding decor. You can basically come up with different color combinations and shapes to create the most spectacular looks with minimal effort.  Most times all you need is a vase or a ribbon to secure your bouquet and you are done!


Croton Plant - source: plantscapers

Leaves are also an excellent choice because they literally cost you NOTHING. You can collect them yourself and just let your imagination do the rest.  You can glue them, spray them, stamp them or even stitch them. But, if you are particularly not feeling creative, Pinterest has an abundance of ideas to inspire you!.  


Source: Tory Burch

Ok, so while I am in confession mode, I might as well let you know that I also have a cabbage leaf obsession as well.  Particularly in dishware. It's sort of a thing with me, lol.  I know some folks think it is tacky but I don't care.....get over it!   Cabbage leaves are hawt! 



Leaves are a staple in Fashion.  I remember as a kid reading about ancient Rome and saw for the first time the solid gold braided leaf crown crown worn by the Roman Emperor Ceasar. It was a "wow" moment for me.  Still takes my breath away to this day.  More than this though, it's beauty and elegance continues to inspire and innovate modern fashion today. Leaf Art and design were here from the beginning of time and they are here to stay!





dhgate.com for about $20 bucks!





Designers like Tommy Bahama and Panama Jack have leveraged the power of leaves and tropical foliage very successfully. They have primarily built empires around leaves..... how amazing is that! 







Ralph and Russo Stilettos


Leaf belts from dhgate.com


Chloe 2017


Source: amiclubware





Source: Missguided


Source: Missguided


                                                         Source: charlotteolympia









Tuesday, February 6, 2018

With Love From The Bahamas - Junkanoo!

Hello Lovelies!

Yes, I have been awol for a while but I have lots to share with you! In my next post I will let you know where I disappeared to all this time and why I took a break from blogging.  I love you all. :)

Now for some exciting stuff.
I bring you the greatest cultural festival on earth!




This stunning explosion of Art, expression and color is called JUNKANOO which is one of the truest expressions of Bahamian culture.  If you are from the BAHAMAS, you bleed Junkanoo. End of story.

Junkanoo is held on Boxing day and New years day.  It is a spiritual experience that is unlike anything you will ever experience.  The closest to it is Carnival.  But, even Carnival does not even come close.  Imagine a parade more than 1000 strong with people wearing and carrying the most creative, stunning 3d Art pieces ever created.  Now imagine more than half of the members masterfully playing music in unison.  The most energetic rythmic pulsating, hypnotic "get in your marrow" music.  The music is so infectious you literally lose control....



As you dance to the sound of


Handmade
Goat Skin Drums.

Horns


Custom made
Cow Bells!

And other instruments.


There are many groups and they all dance and perform
with unbridled intensity and passion.

It is phenomenal.  
Epic. 
Amazing.

All that and some biscuits!


(And this Bahamian girl is not biased at all. :) 


















CHERIO!


Thursday, February 1, 2018

SUPER COOL CLOTHING REVAMPS and More LIFE HACKS by Blossom



I am a DIY fanatic so I am always on the lookout for new exciting how-to's on fashion and crafts where ever I am lucky enough to find them. This one by blossom, does not disappoint! Check it out, and you will be amazed. Seriously. :)

Cherio!

Monday, November 13, 2017

DIY AFFORDABLE MANTLE DECOR | CHRISTMAS 2017



Howdy folks! Got another amazing DIY video to share with you. It is from "StyledByCasanova"  I love this one so much because it looks so expensive, beautiful and festive. Truth is however, it is affordable, and quite easy to do.  Check it out and get a jump on your Christmas decorating.

Cherio!

Tuesday, September 26, 2017

The Typical Work Week



Trust Snoopy to tell the truth! This is so funny but we all have been there and can relate. :)
 Have a beautiful day lovelies!

Cherio!

Monday, September 18, 2017

15 Awesome Backsplash Kitchen Ideas


Confession. This post was created out of utter confusion and if truth be told, the need to vent!

In 2 months or so, I will be redoing our kitchen, and so as I am a compulsive control freak I already chose everything from floor to ceiling as far as materials and colors go down to the most minute detail...that is except the backsplash.  Normally I am really good at making a decision and sticking to it but not this time.  I have flip flopped so many times now with various tile choices I could actually be worn on someones feet. But then who can blame me?



Materials for backsplashes are so extensive now.  They come in every style or material you can imagine, plus they now come in mixed materials like sea shells mixed with textured glass, mixed with copper and so much more variations.  The tiles are exquisite but more than that, the colors are swoon worthy.   What's a girl to do with so many fabulous choices!  Seriously.


So far I have narrowed it down to 4 choices in tiles.  That is as far as I got today. It was a valiant fight to get to this point in my selection so patting myself on the back.  Hopefully in a few days I can decide which is the winning tile selection...sweating as I think about that.  Feels like I am choosing a winner at a beauty pargeant. Sigh.


Those of you who are judging me right now, here is your opportunity to put yourself to the test. Check out these fabulous ideas and tiles and tell me, and you will see exactly what I mean. Good luck, and consider yourself warned!













Cherio!



Tuesday, August 29, 2017

♥ Glam Home ♥ DIY Bathroom Vanity Remodel



Needed inspiration for a vanity makeover, and came across this makeover.  Check it out.  So simply explained and so fab. Love it!

Cherio

Monday, July 3, 2017

Nail It! With These Awesome Manicure Ideas




I wear my nails short now, but, this is no sacrifice for me.  As an artist and designer shorter nails are way more practical for me.  Plus, with all the drama, style and creative nail art goodness available now, lets just say that am quite happy with my options. Yes, long nails are beautiful but short nail are fabulous too!












Cherio!