Fashionably Inspired: Prada and Schiaparelli

I can't say enough how important a role fashion plays into my daily life as designer, artist and mom. My favorite designers constantly serve as inspiration and feed my creativity which is why I was so excited to visit The Met's new exhibit -  

Schiaparelli and Prada: Impossible Conversations. 

The exhibition features imagined conversations between these two iconic designers and explores the similarities between their work despite the fact that Schiaperelli designed in Paris from the '20s through the '50s during the Surrealist movement and Prada, associated with Postmodernism, was just beginning in 1978.

What does this all have to do with interior design? It is my desire to create modern and "present" interiors which have historical references. Like Prada and Schiaparelli I'm always inspired by what came before. Besides, I love beautiful things as I hope you do. Here ares some of my favorite images from the exhibit!

Elsa Schiaparelli & Miuccia Prada

George Hoyningen-Huené (Russian, 1900–1968)
Portrait of Elsa Schiaparelli, 1932
Courtesy of Hoyningen-Huené/Vogue
© Condé Nast

Guido Harari (Italian, born Cairo, 1952)
Portrait of Miuccia Prada, 1999
Courtesy of Guido Harari/Contrasto/Redux

I love this geometric coat paired with an organic print.

 Iconic shoes from Prada ...

 

Appliques like these offer a three dimensional layering of materials and an artistic expression. 

Clever recycling can make the ordinary become extraordinary.

Ombre color wash has a watercolor feel. 

The trompe l’oeil pleats on this dress predate the digital printing trend of today.

Wallis Simpson in Elsa Schiaparelli - chic and timeless.

 

Metallic braid trim – a classic detail ...

 

*** All images courtesy of - Schiaparelli & Prada: Impossible Conversations

A Cowgirl at Heart ...

I have a secret love of cowboys and country music. One of my favorite events held each year in Calgary, Alberta is the Calgary Stampede which celebrated its 100th anniversary this year. Several years ago, we  were hosted by our dear Canadian friends and had an experience we will never forget.  Here are a couple of memories from years past.

Cowboy - take me away!

A younger Emma in her big, pink cowboy hat ...

I can't wait for next year!

A Chic Twist on Outdoor Living

With summer in full swing, I love spending time on my porch. It's the perfect place to extend your living space and appreciate the beauty of nature. For those of you who like casual entertaining as much as I do, here are a few ideas for creating a festive space that are sure to get your guests in the right mood. 

EKB's porch featuring Chella and Trina Turk fabrics

Trina Turk's colorful outdoor fabrics are sensational! 

Trina Turk Fabrics

  

Two of my favorites ...

Trina Turk Pisces Print in Pool

Trina Turk Bamboo Forest Print in Parrot

Laura Kirar's new outdoor furniture collection is a chic twist on white wicker. 

Woven Seating by Laura Kirar for Barlow Tyrie

Dining alfresco is what summer is all about.

  

Architect: John Barrett/Interior Designer: Salome Gunter/Elle Decor

Stone tables with rattan benches are a stylish alternative to traditional outdoor seating.

Designer: Eileen Kathryn Boyd/Hampton Designer Showhouse

Lighting is so important in creating the right atmosphere and everything looks wonderful in candlelight. These lanterns by Arteriors not only have a gorgeous finish, but they have great scale and presence.

 

Arteriors Home Albany Metal/Glass Lantern 

Arteriors Home Hampton Metal/Glass Lanterns

A fresh interpretation of the classic blue and white color scheme. 

Designer: Eileen Kathryn Boyd

It's hip to be square ... love this crisp blue and white market umbrella.

Limoge Ikat Rectangular Umbrella

Celebrating the 4th in Nantucket ...

For me there's no better place to celebrate the fourth of July (while earning some much needed rest and relaxation) than Nantucket. From the climbing roses and weathered, shingled, beachfront homes to the laid-back atmosphere and family feel, Nantucket is where I love to call home (at least for a few wonderful summer weeks). Of course this time of year, it seems everywhere I turn in my beloved coastal town, I'm surrounded by inspiration. Nantucket pulls off red, white and blue like no other. Here are some fun shots I took this week.

 A patriotic lighthouse.

 Hydrangeas in tow.

The perfect place for cocktails? A fire pit for the cool island nights.

Vintage chairs with a hip new vibe.

 A little bit of heaven.

Ready for the parade!

Part of the summer landscape are these beautiful climbing roses. The raspberry color against the white fence is so happy! 

Love these nautical bookends ...

Enjoy and happy fourth of July!

You're Invited ...

With a trip to Nantucket around the corner, I'm dreaming of some time outdoors, aren't you? It's the picnics and pool parties we've been waiting for all year long! This summer however, I'm adding a little chic to my soiree. Here are some great BLUE items to take your party to the next level.

I'd reach for these classic ballets in turquoise all summer long!

J. Crew classic leather ballet flats $125

 Perfect for a Sunday brunch poolside!

Paola Navone for Richaed Ginori

Paola Navone for Richaed Ginori

I would serve these with mojitos at dusk.

Kim Seybert cocktail napkins-set of 6 $78

Indoor/outdoor rugs have come a long way.

Brita Sweden indoor/outdoor rug

A few of my favorite fabrics to add a little oomph to your outdoor upholstery. 

Eileen Kathryn Boyd Esquire 21006-422

Manuel Canovas Bragance #1461-01

Schumacher Antibes Chevron #659-20 Navy

A couple of other party pointers ..

1) Serve your favorite cocktails with colorful napkins and paper goods.

2) Create drama by lighting up your patio plants and adding votive candles, lanterns and portable can lights.

3) Spray a vintage table white and set up as an outdoor summer bar. You'll always be party ready!

4) Create a playlist of your favorite songs.

5) Put together a hostess basket for your guests including fashionable insect repellents.  

Enjoy yours!

Last Minute Father's Day Gifts

If you're like me, work, summer plans and my children's end-of-school activities have taken over my life leaving Father's Day shopping a last minute endeavor. So I took a quickie gander online, and thought I'd share a few gift ideas I think any dad would appreciate.

 Kodak's photo books are such thoughtful gifts.

Kodak Gallery Photo Book $8.99

 There's something to be said about a written note!

Montblanc fountain pen $610

Charles Tyrwhitt shirts are both stylish and well made (and I love this lavender check).



Charles Tyrwhitt

 I might add a pair of coordinating socks ...

A pair of aviators like Tom Ford's style will have the dad in your life looking cooler than ever.

 A little something to get your man smelling irresistible (love the color of the bottle too)!

Acqua di Gioia $39.50-$82

Of course, a framed family photo or drawing from your kids may just be the best gift of all. 

A favorite shot my husband Jim will love.