Fashion: Shapes & Colors

In fashion, color brings the shape of clothes to life. As of late, I've noticed how some clothes fall short of fabulous because they were the wrong colors with the right shape OR the wrong shape with the right color. Of course, I attribute high importance to both elements. I've been captured lately (maybe because I'm looking forward to fall?) by the rich, jeweled colors contrasting with an airy counterpart. I stumbled upon such beautiful examples. I've all but drooled over the timeless silhouettes with such classy touches of an embellishment. Although my days don't call for this kind of elegance, I'm learning to focus in on my wardrobe in the way of shapes and colors.




Berry Oscar de la Renta; Pink Louis Vuitton
Gold Lela Rose, Navy Monique Lhuillier

Let's Take a Look at Art

Here are some of art's wonderful examples of color in action. Examine each painting. How does the artist evoke emotion and energy through careful placement of color? Is it through shadows? A window? Nature? Attire? Although I plan on continuing to further explore color in art, I want to first hand the mic to you: What about these (or any other piece!) paintings capture you? What makes each piece special and distinctive? And of course, how does the use of color and light weave its role throughout the entire work? Can't wait to hear your thoughts.


Poppy, Georgia O'Keeffe
Twilight on the Sound, Darien, Connecticut, John Frederick Kensett (1816–1872)
Mighty Proud, Norman Rockwell, 1958
Philosopher in Meditation, Rembrandt van Rijn, 1632

House Beautiful: A Bright and Bold Summer Beach House

In the July/August issue of House Beautiful, I fell in love with Krista Ewart's California beach bungalow! The article highlights ways to make the most of your small spaces. In Ewart's space, she uses bold color to expand the room. She explains: "I don't think you should ever restrain yourself! And big, bright, and bold actually makes small spaces seem larger. The more statement pieces, the better." I'm totally inspired. I was encouraged to tell one of my readers, Maria H., that even white walls do not limit the use of color in your own space. In this beach house, with exception of one small use of wallpaper, the backdrop is sterile white! Such a surprise to see with such bold accessory colors. Plus, bright, fun, and inexpensive accessories can be swapped around to sync with your mood. Don't worry about making the plunge to the color world for fear of over-commitment! Pick your favorite colors and run with them!