Love it! - Leather chest

We've all seen chests the past few seasons, mostly as coffee tables and while not the most docile looking, this leather dresser with leather pulls and brass corner caps is probably the most well-done incarnation of the "chest" look that I've seen thus far. Use as a console table, or placed strategically in your office or bedroom - it has the Ralph Lauren, "Great Gatsby" look that's oh-so-preppy!



www.PotteryBarn.com - Richmond Leather Chest $1099

AND FOR GREAT AFFORDABLE AND COMPLIMENTARY BED OPTIONS:
Queen Headboard and White Comforter Sets.

Love it! - African pattern dhurrie rug

As soon as I saw this rug I almost DIED! It just so happens I'm really into Kuba cloth at the moment, indigenous to the Congo and woven into similar geometric patterns - in earthy tones as they are all naturally died. This Dhurrie rug by WestElm is very representational of African patterns that I'm so loving right now!




www.WestElm.com - Kirabo Dhurrie Rug

Love it! - Ikat rug

Usually mainstream retailers, especially those at a more affordable price point won't have the high-end patterns and styles we're so accustomed to seeing at high-end boutiques and trade-only showrooms. But this Ikat rug (5x8 for only $349) is a perfect example of high-style at a low price. Wake up a room with this ethnic pattern that's sure to deliver stand alone power!



www.CB2.com - Ikat Pile Rug - 5'x8' $349

Love it! - White lacquer table

Sometimes there's nothing better than a simple white glossy lacquered table. This basic from CB2.com makes for a great dining table, office conference table or desk. Sleek, neutral, multi-functional and for only $399, how can you afford not to buy it?



www.CB2.com - Bobby Dining Table $399

Love it - Outdoor zebra rug

Though Summer is coming to an end, let's not forget there are areas in the country where outdoor living is year round! All the more reason to fab up your space with this anti-mold zebra print rug - who said your outdoor space can't be just as chic? At the same time, it would be perfect for an indoor office like mine where I have a rolling desk chair. This flat rug will allow for a warm floor and castered-chair mobility, all at the same time!


www.NeimanMarcus.com - Zebra Outdoor Rug $59-$709

Love it! - Braided picture frame

I'm pretty picky when it comes to picture frames. I tend not to like frames that are too ornate, eye catching or thick. It's really more about the photo and while a decorative border would be lovely, one that is neutral in color, monochromatic and one continuous pattern makes for a great back drop. This gold-plated, braided frame by L'Objet gives you just enough design without being overpowering and instead enhances the most memorable of photos!


www.NeimanMarcus.com - L'Objet Gold Braid Frame(S-L $110-$185)

Love it! - Bodum toasters

Known for their French coffee presses, though I don't drink coffee, my friend swears by them - Bodum has expanded their product offerings to toasters oddly enough. Available in four retro-tastic colors, they will make any kitchen counter top sing!

www.NeimanMarcus.com - Bistro Toaster $79.95

Love it! - Gold gourd lamp

OK, so I must say I'm pretty tired of seeing gourd lamps - that is the typical ceramic porcelain variety we've all seen a thousand times. But when I saw this gold ribbed interpretation I couldn't help but take note. I happen to be all about gold furnishings these days - down to my shoes! Glamorous, sexy and perfect for a sensual bedroom, or living room that needs to be woken up!


www.Horchow.com - $375

Love it! - Chippendale planter

The fret work of this mahogany with bun foot planter is to-die-for! Chic inside or out, no need to worry about seasonal weather. On your porch or in your living room, any fauna you place will look all the more regal - what's terracotta? (wink)



www.SourceCollection.com - $650

Love it! - Weave mirror

Wow, this mirror is gorge! - subtle yet love the woven design detail. I'm definitely a sucker for anything with a lattice feel. It's such a classic pattern that gives you texture, symmetry, femininity and enough design interest without going overboard - especially in this case where the entire mirror, including the weave is mirrored. It makes a constrained statement without competing with anything else it might be paired with.


www.Horchow.com - $395

Love it! - Nail head storage cubes

There's nothing new about "nail heads" as they have been adorning furniture and storage chests for centuries, but how they adorn these white leather storage cubes is nothing short of fresh and stylin! Tall enough as side tables - sit books, a small bouquet, tray of candles, or bowl of accoutrement.




www.Horchow.com Set of 2 - $499