Poly - Amazing.com

Finally I have found the equal to my fiance's video games. A site where I can spend countless hours killing my vision in the hopes of over-coming new challenges....polyvore.com. Whether created for facebook or hollywood stylists, I am totally in love with this new meta-site full of splendor.

On polyvore, you create an account then you can create endless amounts of dream rooms or dream outfits with products from a variety of stores and major retailers. The images used on polyvore even link back to the site where they are sold. I have found lamps, shoes, jewelry and other sites I did not previously know of. The major reason this site is amazing- is because now I can convince my fiance why I have to have the pink chairs- by showing him the visual.


I HEART POLYVORE.COM

For the stylish book worms

Books can get messy- especially if your home does not have built-ins or you don't have proper shelving. Fret no more- there are a ton of cute book ends online for very good prices. My current personal favorite is the purple Agate book ends from Jayson Home. The natural look pairs well with any palette- and provides a unique addition to any book shelf. I plan on using these ends to hold my cook books in a corner of my kitchen counter.

Umbrella-ella

Yes- Winter in SF is steadily approaching, which means rain, rain, rain.There are a ton of fun, flirty and functional umbrellas out that will not compromise your style. However there are no cute umbrella stands for the home. I have looked on urban, west elm, CB2, specialty stores and more, only to find cheap plastic stands.


Recently while flipping through my new SF MOMA store mag- I found the most unique umbrella stand I have ever seen- and actually priced under $200. The turquoise blue paired with the coral base- is clever design at best. Suddenly I can not wait for it to rain!

Grocery Chic

Us San Franciscans face a new challenge..... looking cute at the grocery store. With the new ban of plastic at the check out, we are all scrambling to find a cute spacious tote. I mean do you really want to carry an oatmeal-colored tote with your new muse bag?

Fashionistas stress no more, our Scandinavian friends have saved us from scrutiny. The Carrie shopping basket in white made from crochet tablecloths, is quite possibly the cutest new shopping accessory I have seen. In addition to grocery shopping it can double as a:
fruit basket, a laundry basket, a book holder or even..... a towel holder in your bathroom, and it is only $38.

Finally saving the environment and looking cute is possible.

Kitchen Cute

It can be extremely difficult to find cute accessories for the Kitchen, especially dish towels. Most come in green or red and white gingham prints, or are saturated with sunflowers.

One night while stopping by a friends art show in Hayes Valley, I spotted the sweetest little towel, meant for my kitchen. Sweet, functional and only $17 is the perfect hi-lo find.

The Perfect Pet

Everyday I dream of having a dog....unfortunately my lease and my boyfriend do not agree. However both parties do allow fish, but I can not envision a huge fishbowl in my decor. Most tanks and bowls are huge and extremely unappealing to the eye.

But as usual our friendly Canadadian friends at Target have developed a solution.....A wall-mounted fish bowl. Not only is this design modern and clever, it is perfect for the size fish I want to buy. The best part ever... it is only $17.

Go to Target.com now!

Go Gold

In a search for a pair of flats (another!), I found this super classy, versatile and easy to wear gold pair by Olivia Morris.

Her design style is feminine yet refined with a sense of humor. According to her: ‘Every girl should have a pair of gold shoes, like every girl should own a little black dress’. Although this statement is no news for me, her Delia flats ($670) are by far one of the few truly day-to-night flats out there.

With jeans and tee for day, or skirt with dark opaque tights for evening, these shoes will for sure make you stand out, in a chic shinny way, in the crowd.

Flying Carpet

Rug shopping is so daunting. It is hard to find the right size, a cool print, a durable blend, and most of all - not spend over $1000. I am a huge fan of white shag but realize how dirty my white jeans get when worn, so buying a white shag rug is an instant no. As my search continued, I found and fell in love with this bold Moroccan window rug by West Elm, not only for the visual appeal but for the price- a 3'x5' is only $89.

I plan to go all white with my guest bedroom by painting the walls bright white, White Saarinen tables, and white bedding. Of course I have to add gold lighting- because I do love gold, but my favorite piece will be the Moroccan Window Rug in chocolate and white. The rug allows me to incorporate bold color and ethnic flare with out maxing out my credit.

Honeycomb for your home

Many design enthusiasts are always searching for interesting lamps that have striking shape and bold color. Lamps are the perfect tool for creating ambiance and incorporating sculpture into your interior design.

However, it is quite challenging to find unique table lamps that don't cost over a grand. But thanks to the design team at Pier 1, the search is finally over. My personal favorite is the Etched Honeycomb table lamp in Kelly green . Believe it or not, this handcrafted, chisel-finished design with brass harp, and glass finnial can be purchased for less than $150.

I envision a pair of these lamps against a chocolate brown wall accented with white and a tiny hint of fuschia. Against any color in any room, this lamp is sure to transcend trends and make any room look fabulous.

This is Serious

Clearly - I love art. Many quirky little paintings find their way on my walls. But I truly love sculpture- especially sculpture I can hang on the wall. However, it is often tricky to find unique sculptures with out breaking the bank.

Last year when sourcing gifts for an event promotion I came across an amazing wall sculpture company - Serious Gnome. Their offbeat line of wall plaques are inspired by the vibrant fruit and floral plaques found on the walls of many homes in the 1930's and 40's. Each plaque is made by hand in their Brooklyn-based studio.

Whether hung in triplets or alone, these bold plaques make quite a statement. From skulls, to hearts, to poppies- there is a Serious Gnome for all homes.

Hit me Hardy

Silver is definitely THE color for this summer. But that’s not news. The news is that I just found THE most fabulous pair of silver shoes… and they come straight from Paris! The beautiful ‘Jezus Sandal’ by Pierre Hardy completely took my heart … and wallet ($758!). But trust me, this is THE shoe purchase for the season, totally worth the splurge.

The former Hermès cobbler is considered the king of shoes in Paris (along with Louboutin & Frisoni, respectively) and after inspecting his creations, it’s not hard to figure out why. Pierre Hardy launched his successful, self-titled collection in the summer of 1999. He is now creative director for Hermes Jewelry and designs the shoe collection for Balenciaga. Phew! Do I have to say anything else?

You can find some of his designs at select brick and mortar Neiman Marcus stores. But if you’d rather not take the chance of missing a pair of these, visit one of my favorite online stores, aloharag.com and maybe, if you’re lucky, your size won’t be sold out yet.

Colorful showers

It is extremely important to start your day with energy. I personally am attempting to cut back on my caffeine and therefore am depending on my morning shower to provide that eye-opening jolt. Being I live in a dark loft in a foggy city, it was important for my new morning ritual to be full of color. Luckily in my rented space I can paint and so I chose a bright turquoise blue, accented with red and white.

But for many, painting is not an option and many bathrooms have not been updated since they were built. So often I see bathrooms full of drab color. It pains me to think most people start their day with pea green.

But don't worry for those of you who can't legally paint, there are an array of shower curtains online that exude personality, style, and brighten your morning. My personal favorite is this Blue Chain Curtain from Sprout Home.

I love how the bold chain print has a vintage Palm Beachy-feel and the blue is vibrant and fresh . And did I mention the price......$33.00! It is a steal.

Dish This

I love the combination of black and white on most anything, especially for my home. The chic color duo compliments many colors and makes a statement. Recently while looking for a new set of dinner plates, I stumbled upon the new silhouette series by Thomas Paul.

Thomas Paul is known for placing bold graphics on everyday objects. These playful cameo plates can be used as desert plates or my personal choice - Wall Art! In order to hang, take a trip to the hardware store and ask for plate hangars- then position each plate horizontally along a wall in order to make the space seem longer.


For more thomas paul go to: www.velocityartanddesign.com

Precious Tresure

Back when I did not share my precious findings, not even with my imaginary friends, this jewelry designer would be part of the “I won’t tell you where I bought this even under torture” inventory. Let’s say that, after checking out her pieces, I truly believe that you are going to be very careful about spreading her name: Stephanie Owens, the designer behind the brand Elizabeth Cole.

Elizabeth Cole is a collection of intricately designed costume jewelry, to be worn alone or layered and looped with fine jewelry and other costume pieces. All in gold, gold and more gold. Besides going crazy for the collection's signature chain necklaces, I fell head over heels for this amazing Gordian Knot bracelet ($293).

Ok, ok, maybe you’ve already heard about her. Some celebrities are already fans and there are some Bloomingdales that carry a very small inventory of her pieces, but who in the world is able to find anything in those cramped jewelry cases?? So here it goes: you can buy her jewelry directly from her website AND she updates it with seasonal designs that you will not want to miss. www.elizabethcolejewelry.com.

Luminaire

It must be a southern thing........... but I love lamps. A table lamp can not only be a piece of art, it can illuminate a corner and create an unexpected cozy ambiance. It can be challenging to find a unique and modern table lamp with out breaking the bank, especially if you have good taste.

After painting my bedroom a beautiful oker yellow, I began a fervent search for an eye-catching all white lamp. After looking high and low, I found the Octagonal Lamp from
West Elm.


The all white hue paired with the strong architectural detail provides a bold impact suitable for shabby chic or ultra mod. A pair of these will create the perfect lighting in your home and look interesting with any style decor.

Hot Wax

Candles are essential for creating ambiance in your home. However, I personally am not fond of large glass cylinders, often allergic to the over-vanilla fragrance and hate a waxy mess.

Soultion: Citizen-Citzen - an up-and-coming design company that challenges the standards in beauty and design.

Candle #1 by Fredrikson Stallard combines a tapered candle and it's ornate holder all-in-one. This fresh take on a classical object exemplifies the limitless capabilities in modern design and removes the notion of the expected functionality of the object.

I love to place Candle #1 on the edge of my tub or replace boring votives for fabulous party decor.

www.citizen-citizen.com - available in red, black or white

Greetings from Brazil

Every time I go back home (yes, Brazilian, thanks!) I am anxious to see what is new in fashion and where fellow style ‘finders’ are placing their bets – or should I say their feet? Again and again, no one can live without jelly shoes by Melissa.

Melissa has been a part of the Brazilian culture for the past 25 years and now ... finally ... the rest of the world is getting to know her. The original much-loved jelly shoe comes in all shapes, colors and styles. The brand’s design partners, including Alexandre Herchcovitch, the Campana Brothers, Judy Blame, and others, brought international recognition and many, many fans - I am a HUGE one!

I particularly love these two: the Indie Purple (top) and Judy Blame’s button heel (bottom). Completely different jelly styles, and perfect for someone like me – if I cannot change my hair color to match my mood I can definitely change my shoes!

Although the Brazilian website does not ship internationally, the Australian website does and they are pretty good in calling you back with shipping costs and details. I just ordered from them, since I could no longer find these styles in my size in Brazil, and so far so good. Find these and other styles at www.melissaaustralia.com.au.

Laying Tile

It is impossible to find a cool rug that doesn't cost a fortune. Last year Crate & Barrel launched a modern affordable line of products called CB2.com. They produce everything from dinner ware to textiles. Their most innovative and affordable products are the FLOR™ carpet tiles, available in an array of colors and patterns.

My pick is the "Amazing lace" tiles, for $11.95 each. I love the brilliant mix of modern and vintage design coupled with the ability to interchange the tile pattern or size of the rug.

A wise investment indeed!

Modern Snapshot

It is so challenging to find amazing modern art on a budget, especially photography. Then there was Pottery Barn....Teen. By far my favorite new find, PBteen.com now allows shoppers to upload their own photograph or image and in 2-3 weeks receive the image on a 4' x 6' canvas.

A large photograph is the perfect way to make your space more dramatic and artistic.

go to:
pbteen.com

Budget Red Carpet

Ahhhh the Oscars, how I do love to rate the runway. One of the most striking numbers to hit this year's red carpet was the precious canary dress designed by Olivier Theyskins for Reese Witherspoon. The flattering shape coupled with the brilliant hue is chic, sexy, and confident.

While searching for the "perfect" dress to wear to a formal wedding in the middle of the desert, I discovered a very close copy of Reese's selection......but for less than a third of the price. With subtle accessories and a colorful pump, this dress is perfect for a spring wedding, fabulous party, or resort get away.

to buy:
http://edressme.com/dresses11807.html#

Hints of Hues

Looking for ways to incorporate personality into your home with out painting? I always start by finding a great pair of colorful pillows to adorn an inexpensive Ikea sofa or simple white bedding.

One of my favorite designers - Thomas Paul, recently released a pillow line full of bold graphics and vibrant hues. My personal favorite is the 18" x 18" twill silk pillow in a moss green Flock print.

All of his pillows can be found on www.velocityartanddesign.com

Stick This!

Us Hi-Lo dolls not only obsess about the latest fashion....we love to decorate our home. Interior design can be expensive, but we have found a plethora of affordable products to help complete your chic lifestyle.

I always advise the best way to jazz up a home, is by finding unique art and accessories. While searching online for wall art, I discovered Stickers by Dvider - a company that makes wall stickers in silhouette forms of peacocks, thistles, skulls.....any much more.

This edgy sticker art is a great alternative to painting a mural or purchasing expensive art. I plan to order the peacock sticker in red, to dress up a bathroom. It has been challenging to find art for my bathroom, due to the effects of water damage, however the stickers are a safe and chic alternative.

Stylish nostalgia

Wondering where the Hollywood “in crowd” scores the most amazing, award ceremony and Vanity Fair party worthy vintage pieces??? In LA, right? Yes, but for us lucky San Francisco gals, its not just in LA anymore… Torso Vintages is in town!

I heard some buzz about it in December, but I thought that it would be yet another “typical” vintage store that we have around town - where vintage means used, not unique dresses and accessories from sometime in the past, and I mean the real past: Azzaro gowns from the 70s, Pucci dresses from the 60s, beautiful furs from the 40s… A ‘real’ vintage shopping experience, with a mix of high-end and moderate priced items, that you simply must go – even if it’s just to look around and feel like you’ve landed in a totally different decade… Which one? Just go there and choose….

Torso Vintages (www.torsovintages.com) is at 272 Sutter Street at Grant, San Francisco - only until June.

Brighten up!

I’m not sure about you, but I am so ready for spring. Can’t wait to start wearing bright colors, light dresses (no, with leggings and long sleeved tees does not count) and tanning lotion (after all, a bare leg necessity…). While still waiting for that sun to rise, shine and bring some warmth, why not do all of the above yourself? No, I am not talking about braving the cold and wearing summer dresses (please don’t). This super fun, vibrant and very ‘springy’ bangle by Coach ($148), will definitely add sophistication and color to any outfit. Think about what a one and a half inch thick stripped colorful bangle could do to your daily basic outfit… Nothing basic about it.

Available at Coach.com.

Some like it hot…

A couple months ago I went on a crazy search for THE perfect skinny jeans. The good news? I found it. The bad? Many celebrities seem to agree with me… Siwy Denim have a shortened back hem curve that avoids dragging on the floor when worn with flats or heels while maintaining a very long and lean illusion in all sizes. The quilted pockets are not only darling, but also lift and shape your booty. Do I have to say anything else?? Oh, sure, they are hot. In grey ($198)… even hotter.

You can find these and other styles at www.revolveclothing.com

What to Target - Proenza Schouler

I finally got my first order of Proenza Schouler for Target. I don’t know about you, but when I order from Target I am always prepared for one win plus an array of stiff and definitely not flattering ‘poly blend’ items. This time I was actually pleasantly surprised, out of the five items that I ordered four were actually really nice… Not a doubt that this collection looks great, but so far these are the available items that are totally a steal without looking so.

The Cropped Cable Cardigan Sweater is darling. Even before I tried it on I was already in love with it. It feels really nice, is 100% cotton and it’s actually quite warm for a cropped sweater. It fit me perfectly and definitely does not look like a $29.99 sweater at all.

The Long Sleeve Striped Tissue Tee is perfect for layering. It gives a lot of personality to a look without complicating it too much. It comes in two colors – green and white or red and white – I ordered them both and they are totally worth it ($16.99 a piece). Be warned that they are really made for layering; they are too thin to be used on its own.

The Palm Print Jacket, oh so cute... I do not recall being able to buy a jacket (or anything) for this price ($39.90) that instantly transformed my outfit from ordinary to creative and somewhat classy. The fabric is not five stars, but the print makes up for it. Looks great over a solid top and the Striped Tissue Tee in green.

There are a lot of items that are not available yet, so as soon as I am able to order more I will keep you all up to date.

You can find these styles at www.target.com. Make sure to combine you purchases ($50 or more) to get free shipping.

Gotta Have It Flats - Part II (If $485 is a lil’ too much…)

Wondering if you could find a pair of flats equally dazzling, equally comfy and full of personality for at least half of the price? Yes, yes! Check out these Tory Burch’s ($225 for python print and $195 for solids). These shoes are all of the above plus your way in to the Jet Set club! Okay, I cannot guarantee the last, but you sure can wear them in St Barts (or, in ‘St Francisco’…) and feel damn fine! My friend tried a pair; they looked and felt so amazing that she left her ‘Choos’ behind… (I bought a pair too. Shhhhh, she does not know it yet…)

You can find them at http://www.toryburch.com/ and there are many colors to choose from.

Gotta have it flats

How could you not? The cutest and most comfy pair of flats out there is totally worth the investment ($485). These jeweled Miu Miu flats will give you just the right amount of bling and will make any outfit suddenly ‘put together’. The pointy toe is very flattering and looks great with any length of pants, shorts and skirts. It’s fabulous, I’ve tried these on and loved it.

You can get it right now at www.net-a-porter.com.

Coming soon... Hi-Lo Doll

From the runaways, red carpet, celebrity stylists' polaroids, and international trend setters' closets, we bring you hot new looks to answer your daily what should I wear crisis. Hi-Lo Doll translates 'IT' looks to Hi-Lo fashion, so you can show off the stylish you without thinking or breaking the bank. You'll find product reviews and links to buy the looks right there and then, besides the faster you shop the more you can buy. After all, it's our duty to keep the economy moving, your closet full, and your co-workers/friends/or whoever you might run into (or across) envious. Stay tuned!