self love & smelling the roses

February can be a difficult month, especially if you are in the middle of a blistering winter.  With all the talk of Valentine's Day, it would be appropriate to indulge the idea of treating yourself to a little love and kindness. 

It is important to not only be compassionate to others, but also be compassionate to yourself.  What do you need to add a little brightness into your days?  Imagine what you would do for your very best friend or partner when they need a little pick me up.  Give yourself some quality time.  Journaling is a fantastic way to get in touch with yourself in the present moment.

Add some brilliance into your life and home with splashes of vibrant colours.  Buy fresh flowers and arrange them in your finest crystal glasses and dishes for a delightful display that will make you smile each time you pass them.  Fill your fridge and counter tops with delicious seasonal fruit and enjoy a Sunday morning mimosa with brunch.

Wishing you a pleasant February filled with radiance!  Here are a few lovely links:

The wonderful world of Lilly Pulitzer in Lonny magazine.
Delightfully Bright: Vogue Australia March 2011
A Brooklyn Brownstone 



{photo sources: photo 1: Lisa Golightly, collage 1: 100 Layer Cake, Lonny magazine & Rebecca Wood, collage 2: Rebecca Wood photography}

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burnt orange

As the leaves fall off the trees and the sunlight dims golden earlier each day I am reminded of how much I love the crisp, fresh colour of burnt orange.  Whether its a hint of the rich hue in a soft, flowing fabric or a touch of boldness in a bright white room it is lovely any time of the year.

Channeling the darling Miss Anna Karina in a spread long ago for Mean Magazine, Kate Beckinsale adorns the classic orange button-up and striped stockings.  This shoot is one of my favourites.  A tribute to 'Roller Girl' from 1967's Anna (written by Serge Gainsbourg).  This was the first colour film made for French television and the colours are bright, vibrant and vivid.  If you haven't had the pleasure of watching Roller Girl (or even if you have) - you must watch it now!

 And how can I talk about orange without mentioning Hermes?!  This past Spring while I was in Paris walking along the Seine I encountered two striking, dark horses and a carriage overflowing with orange Hermes gift boxes.  They were shooting this fall campaign.  The horses rested while waiting for night to fall along the river for the perfect, mystic setting.  Ahhh what a moment! Only in Paris.

{photo sources: 1. Mean magazine, houzz.com, Harper's Bazaar; 2. Mean magazine, Mean magazine, Garance Dore; 3. Hermes S/S 2011, Mean magazine, Pottery Barn; 4. Hermes}

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