I have a confession to make: I HATE grocery shopping. As much as I love cooking, I just cannot bring myself together to waste an hour of my life limping along the rows of a supermarket. I wish I could rather roam through the street markets on the tiny alleys of Europe where the food is so inspirational and all of the hustle and bustle brings so much character to the process itself.
And be like these chic ladies with their little baskets, just browsing the streets or going to a picnic.
At least I can pretend, with these lovely handmade French Market Baskets from Jeanne Beatrice. I just love the natural quality and the juxtaposition of leather detail.
Or if you want some color and pattern, check out French Basketeer. There you’ll find that perfect punch of color to complement your grocery-shopping outfit (all within $40-$50 range). 
Happy inspired shopping!
<images via here, here and here >
It’s raining…in LA! Really? This weather keeps us on the toes: last week it was unbearably hot, this week cold and raining. Well, I’m not complaining since finally it is perfectly justifiable to be cuddling under the blankets on the gray Monday morning (which is such a rarity here).
For the picture worthy experience, the only thing I’m missing is a fireplace. I wouldn’t mind any model form Focus Creation. By far the most stylish fireplaces and accessories I’ve seen so far.
<images via www.focus-creation.com>
Great new product I stumbled upon which goes immediately to my resource library. Lightwave Laser Designs offer a range of services of laser cutting of stencils, acrylic, paper and wood. One can select from the library of patterns or do a custom one. Their pre-made product selection is also very inspiring: from lamps to screens, art and window covers.
<images via www.lightwavelaser.com>
Nature truly has already created all the beauty out there, we just need to look closer to discover that, as did a New-York based artist and designer Aviva Stanoff. At her Design Studio each product is unique as it is created by hand through silk screening or dying. Whether its her signature velvets or silk organza, charmeuse or glass, her home collection is astounding in its simple beauty.
<images via www.avivastanoff.com>
I’m sure anyone of you have ever felt at home when entering a furniture showroom. Well, I just discovered my furniture heaven last weekend. Even though my personal style changes pretty often, Mecox is the representation of everything ME this summer from the accessories, to the books, to the dog. The only thing missing is the ocean view.
Relaxed yet sophisticated, pared-down yet intellectual… I know which site I’ll be checking quite often. 
<images via me>
