Inspiration Monday

Inspiration is a matter of keeping your eyes, mind and soul open at all times.   On this amazing Monday, find the true beauty and uniqueness in everything that you encounter.

The Smell of Gratitude

I received this wonderful gift from a former client who I had the pleasure of planning her 40th birthday brunch last month. When I opened the delicately wrapped box, the smell of coconut and mango captivated my senses and I immediately placed the diffuser in my home office.  I've acquired several decorative diffusers over the years and each has its own distinctive smell.  As I sit and compose this blog, Illume's tropical fusion of mango and coconut milk constantly reminds me that my client appreciated my services and remembered that I love to pamper my senses with sweet fragrances throughout my home, car and office.

As you know, reed oil diffusers are a great alternative to room sprays and I refer to them as "flameless air fresheners."  They are easy and inexpensive to make and I've given out my signature diffusers as hostess and housewarming gifts to my close friends.  If you are interested in creating your very own signature diffuser, I've listed the details below.

The Details:
• 1 small decorative jar or bottle {purchased from craft store or consignment shop}
• Reed sticks or bamboo skewers {I've found that the reed sticks work a bit better}
• Carrier oil, such as sweet almond oil
• Signature fragrance oil, which I purchase from my dear friend Vikki Brown
• Signature ribbon for that final embellished touch {optional}

• Blend the scent oil and carrier oil together. For every 1ml of our bottle, blend with 10ml of the carrier oil.  For a stronger scent, pour 6ml instead. Swirl the blend together in the bottle and let it sit for an hour. If you're using bamboo skewers, cut off both ends and make sure half of the stick appears above the bottle.

• Have 10-15 sticks in the bottle and let it sit for a few hours for the scent to climb up. For decoration, you can tie the sticks with a ribbon.  Add more scent oils to make the blend stronger or add more carrier oil to make the blend weaker.  Flip the sticks every 3 days and replace the sticks every 3 to 4 weeks.   See, that was very easy, right?

Happy Friday & have an amazing weekend!

The Big, The Bold, The Colorful {Stunning Clusters, Knots & Strands}

{Tribal Tangle Necklace}

Today, I've been searching for the perfect necklace to wear to Wish Upon A Wedding DC's launch party being held on Sunday, June 27, 2010 at Lounge 201 in Washington, DC.  As the Event Chair of this amazing organization, the Committee has decided to incorporate one popping color {which you'll have to attend to see which color we've selected} into our attire. I immediately began the ultimate search to find the ideal neck candy to compliment my little black cocktail dress. Yes, everyone close to me knows that I am not personally a huge fan of color; however, I am taking the necessary steps to becoming more adventurous in my accessory selections.  Normally, I would opt for vintage pieces that consist of diamonds and pearls, but I do understand that it's all about Big, Bold and Colorful this summer.  

{Strawberry Cheesecake Necklace} 

{Beaded Swag Bib Necklace}

{Golden Tang Necklace}

{Solstice Necklace}

 {Lapilli Necklace}

{Strawberry Lemonade Necklace}

{Seraphim Necklace}

These magnificent pieces compliments of Anthropologie are truly unique, bursting with character and range from $38 to $250. I think that I may be able to make room in my jewelry box for a few of these chic pieces.  As my good girlfriends say to me all the time, "It's all about lending a brilliant flash of splashing colors to your everyday look Lerkia, get with it."

I'm a timeless girl at heart but my new color motto is, "from funeral drab to sun-hued chic."  Help me Savvy friends, which is your favorite? 

Vintage Floral Shoe Clips :: Revamping What You Have {Recessionista Fashion Tip}

I had a revelation this afternoon and instead of throwing away or donating some of my "blah" pumps and sandals, I've decided to connect with some of my artsy friends at B Poetic to create some fab shoe clips. The goal is to resuscitate your neglected pumps by giving them an entirely new look/vibe {if they are worth saving}. The clips are interchangeable, vintage inspired and unique.  Great for the office or an evening out on the town, the choice is yours!


What do you think? Will you join me in sprucing up your Summer shoe collection, while saving a few coins by working with your pre-existing wardrobe?

:: Strapped vs. Strapless {Outlawing the Strapless Wedding Gowns}

Dear Savvy Bryde Guru:

I am sooo over the strapless wedding gown. I mean, granted, there are some gorgeous strapless dresses out there, and some people who have looked absolutely stunning in them. But why does everyone feel the need to wear one? First of all, they don't look good on everyone, namely the big busted. Second of all, is no one original these days? Is it just easier to find a dress if you narrow the selection to strapless? There are so many other beautiful styles for the range of beautiful brides and their beautiful personalities, and that will actually compliment their figures. Where is the variety? Am I the only one who feels this way?

Sincerely,

Changing the world one sequin at a time

Dear Ms. Sequin:

We truly appreciate your honesty and understand your originality concerns regarding the strapless gown phenomenon. We will acknowledge that the majority of our Savvy Brydes select strapless gowns for many reasons and they all look amazing on their special day. We will also agree that not every strapless gown is the right choice for every woman. For example, Brides with fuller busts look wonderful in strapless gowns when paired with the appropriate wedding undergarments and dresses that have a slight upward curve across the necklines. When working with our clients, we pre-select dresses from various designers that our clients wouldn't normally consider {keeping in mind their figure} and they are always surprised to see how other styles look and feel.  Also, keep in mind that Brides are extremely impressionable when it comes to their bridal fashion and the goal is to ensure that they are 100% comfortable and confident in their wedding attire. Yes, there is variety in the bridal fashion world and we have chosen a few of our favorite non-strapless gowns for your consideration.

Although none of them are adorned in sequins, we wanted to show you that cap sleeves, vintage lace boleros, asymmetrical shoulder, cowl neck, empire waist, and high neck detailing is very much relative and totally fabulous for a bride who has decided that strapless gowns are not for her.

Let us know what you think Ms. Sequin!

{Beth Elis}

*Thank you Wedding Inspirasi for the Inspiration*

Sizzling Summer :: Home Decor Inspiration

Summer is an ideal time to lighten up the colors and fabrics in your home and or office. While it may not be feasible to spruce up every room, there are many ways in which you can contribute summer flair while being budget-conscious. Whether it's replacing your heavier window treatments with light sheers or hanging bright printed shower curtains in your bathroom, the options are limitless. By incorporating your favorite chrome accents you will provide a reflective value that makes any room unique. Don't forget to incorporate decor that you have acquired over the years, such as family photo books for the coffee table, vintage vases, mirrors and other significant embellishments that could spark conversation amongst friends and family.  Sprinkles of summer white throughout your home adds a clean, fresh and whimsical feel. Can you already feel it?

As we were researching inspiration for an upcoming project, we stumbled upon these amazing decor photos, and we just had to share {tons of character, texture and patterns}. During the summer months, your home should reflect comfort, style, calmness and a refreshing vibe.  Invigorate your senses by sprucing up your abode with some of these lovely color palettes and decor ideas:

Photos compliments of :  Tradewinds Decor, Fine Living, HGTV and Laura Barbosa

Enhancing Your Wardrobe With Confidence - A Little Splash of Color {June Photo Contest}

Summer evokes a feeling of fresh new beginnings and we are officially dedicating the month of June to "Color!" There are so many ways to incorporate happy colors into your daily attire and it is all about prints and bright colors to enhance your silhouette.  Establish a list of complimenting colors and try to incorporate them into your wardrobe the entire month.  Whether it’s sparkling stilettos, a canary yellow cardigan with a vintage peacock brooch or a turquoise multi-layered necklace, let's turn some heads and think outside the box this month.

Bold and jazzy prints are being used in everything from shift dresses, textured silk scarves and bedazzled clutch bags.  With summer fashions now hitting the street, you'll find boutiques brimming with this season's bold oranges, yellows, blues and pinks. For those a little more adventurous, make a dramatic statement by incorporating bronze, copper, pewter, inky blue and gold accessories in your hair, ears or on your arm.  By adding one bold color to the daily mix, you can revolutionize your wardrobe, heighten your spirits and smile with confidence. 

Please send your candid photo to info{at}modage-style{dot}com with a caption describing your look and they will be posted each Friday afternoon as a part of our Street Style feature.  We will also be snapping away {paparazzi style} at City Chic Chicas who inspire us through color.

The Fashionista with the most pizzazz will be acknowledged on Wednesday, June 30th at 12p (EST) and presented with a city chic prize.

Stay fabulous, let's have some fun with color and spread the word!

*photo compliments of Pantone 2010*