Wrap your Wrist in Chan Luu

Right now, I am really crushing on Chan Luu’s beaded bracelets.  Reminiscent of the string friendship bracelets I wore in my younger days; these beaded bracelets will pair well with what’s already in your jewelry box.  Free expedited shipping at Chan Luu make these great last minute shopping gifts as well.   Available at Chan Luu, Bloomingdales, Net-a-Porter.

The Dollhouse Grows Up

I am swooning over the Bennett House dollhouse by brinca dada, with it’s minimalist feel, clean lines and right angles.   I can’t decide what I like better, the windows that span multiple floors or the solar-powered LED lights.

Coffee worth getting out of bed for

I fell in love with many things the first time I went to Europe, but discovering Illy coffee topped the list.  I adore it for the taste (cappuccinos being my preference) but Illy actually hits on all the things that my “Delicious” blog is about:


Fashion:  Simon Doonan created “Miss Illy” out of recycled Illy tins for Barney’s holiday window display at their flagship location.  Love her gown.

Design:  Just look at that logo.   Also, collaborations with artists like Jeff Koons, Robert Rauschenberg and Daniel Buren make cups and saucers worthy of stowing outside the cupboard.    

Décor:  Heck, I like the Illy canister so much it sits on my kitchen counter.  And for someone who is fanatical about clean surfaces, that’s saying a lot.

Food:  This is the most delectable, bold coffee without any bitter aftertaste that I have ever sipped.  Although an Illy cappuccino is my fav, they have coffeemaker-compatible grinds that are perfect for the home too.  I get my Illy at Whole Foods but you can visit Illy’s global locator to find the store or café nearest you.  Or, download their i-Phone ap to get your Illy info on the go.  Visit Illy’s online shop for lots of great last minute holiday gifts, too.

So if you haven’t tried it, please do and share your thoughts!

Sunday Sneaker

A long time fan of Superga this is my go-to sneaker any day of the week.  A nice alternative to Converse, the Superga 2750 was born in Italy in 1911.  These unisex shoes come in a variety of colors, textiles and patterns, but for me it is always Ecru.   Visit Superga now until 12/30/10 and get 20% off your entire purchase when you enter "SNOWFLAKE" at check out.  Free returns and exchanges too.

Table versus Desk?

I have long favored tables over desks for my home office.  To me, there is just something more comfortable about sitting at a table, rather than toiling away at a proper desk.  But I am so besotted with the Palma desk from Jayson Home & Garden, I think I am about to change my mind.  The natural wear of the wood makes it inviting.  The airiness of the legs keeps the ample workspace light.  See it in action in this room re-design from Real Simple.
 

Photo by Thomas Loof.

2011 Color of the Year

It’s my favorite time of year.  “Holidays?” you ask. Not exactly, although they are a delightful diversion to the everyday.  It's the time of year when PANTONE selects their “color of the year” and their pick for 2011 does not disappoint. PANTONE 18-2120 Honeysuckle, is a strong reddish pink said to “lift spirits and impart confidence to meet life's ongoing challenges.”  I, for one, look forward to seeing Honeysuckle pop up on everything from throw pillows to lip gloss in the coming months.

There are already a few ways you can bring Honeysuckle into your world.  Dessy, who makes delightful bridesmaid and special occasion dresses, offers PANTONE WEDDING where color coordinating your entire affair is as easy as clicking swatches.  Or, make a statement in your home by painting one wall (or a whole room!) Honeysuckle with PANTONE Paints.

Come Spring, I intend to retire my Essie “Merino Cool” nail polish for whatever is the best match to this cheery color.