A Few of My Favorite Things

I’m playing Oprah today! Hundreds of products cross my screen on a daily basis as I search out the best to share with you, and a girl can’t help but have a few favorites! And while I wish I had one of each of these fantastic pieces to give to every one of you a la Oprah, I hope my opinion will hold its weight in salt for you. Because these are all shops and creators whose things I own, that decorate my home and my self each and every day.

 

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Splendid Orlando Oxford. These shoes are a new addition to my wardrobe for winter and I love their sleek look (no laces!). Splendid‘s entire lifestyle collection is ultra-comfortable and effortlessly chic, which is perfect for my every day and mixes with existing pieces easily.

American Giant Womens Heavyweight Full Zip Hooded Sweatshirt. I’ve been a hoodie aficionado since junior high, but it’s tough to find one that doesn’t resemble a garbage bag on a woman’s body. This zip up from American Giant is not only sturdy, but made especially for us ladies. If I’m home I usually have it on over whatever I’m wearing, it’s that good.

Emily McDowell’s Foods of the World New York City Tea Towel. Emily McDowell just might be one of the funniest people I know, and her humor translates seamlessly onto her illustrated line of cards, dish towels, and other miscellaneous goods. This towel featuring a recipe that actually involves zero cooking is just the tip of the iceberg.

Warby Parker’s Durand Eyeglasses in Woodland Tortoise. Warby Parker has had my poor vision and my heart in its grasp for several years now. I just recently snapped up this pair from their winter collection, the round-ish lenses are super flattering and their buy 1/give 1 model is tough to beat.

Bloggers Love Cats + Bloggers Love Dogs 13-Month Calendars. Shameless plug alert! I teamed up with other well-known bloggers who are animal lovers to create these two calendar downloads featuring our pets. All proceeds go directly to the Humane Society of the United States and all of the little critters in need.

See Scout Sleep’s Nice Grill Cream + Vermillion Brass Buckle Collar. Both of my pups wear this collar and it stands up to their rough and tumble lifestyles like no other. All of the pet goods See Scout Sleep offers are high quality, environmentally-friendly, and handmade in Louisiana.

Cursive Design’s Apex Studs. Cursive Design is one of my favorite jewelry shops by far, I just love Sarah’s eye for detail. These studs, along with much of the fall/winter 2013 collection, were inspired by a project we collaborated on together for NYFW 2012. They’re molded from vintage glass and cast in yellow bronze.

Jaime Derringer’s Untitled 3. I’m the proud, happy owner of three works of art by Jaime Derringer. Her bold use of color and constant exploration of shape and space never leave me bored. And both Jaime’s original pieces and prints are super affordable.

 

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Pencil Shavings Studio’s Gold Lucite Tray in Palm Springs. Pencil Shavings‘ designer Rachel Shingleton has a great way with both color and pattern. It’s reflected in her shop’s incredible line of phone cases, trays, paper goods, and more!

Alexa Chung’s It. There’s no denying she’s the darling of the fashion world, but after ready through this pink linen-covered book filled with short musings and photos she seems down-to-earth as well.

Paloma’s Nest Custom Monogram Tiny Text Bowl. Paloma’s Nest creates some of the best heirloom-quality ceramics I’ve seen. I own one of these plates and have gifted numerous others over the past few years. You just can’t go wrong with a piece that’s lovingly personalized like these.

Gingiber’s Deer Tea Towel. I love shop owner Stacie’s whimsical, geometric illustration style used on all of her animal characters! Gingiber‘s prints, pillows, towels (and more) are always the highest of quality and meticulously checked over.

Whimsy & Spice’s Chocolate Orange Cardamom Shortbread Cookies. Whimsy & Spice‘s tasty baked goods make the perfect gift for just about any occasion. Now’s a great time to stock up on hostess gifts, snacks for overnight guests, and of course a little something for yourself.

Miró Watches from Urbantrait. Among an incredible selection of modern watches from Urbantrait, Miró definitely stands out. Made from stainless steel, hardened mineral crystal, and calf leather it’s sure to stand up to wear and tear for years to come. Mine has made me a watch wearer again after years of depending on my cell! Find your favorite from tons of men’s watches and women’s watches.

Meow Meow Tweet’s Grapefruit Rosemary Body Oil. Come winter, lotions just don’t cut it for me. I coat myself in Meow Meow Tweet‘s body oil before I get out of the shower and don’t need to re-moisturize until right before bed. Each amazing scent if filled with natural ingredients and infused with botanicals.

strawberryluna’s Morrissey Pittsburgh Poster PETA Donation. My favorite stop for gig posters, and it doesn’t hurt that strawberryluna is based in my hometown either! Allison and Craig do stellar silkscreening work for more bands than I can think to name, and on more posters than I can count that I own.

 

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Gifting with Baba Souk

Sometimes you find that perfect shop – let’s call it the sweet spot – that not only fits your own taste and style, but where you can also find the perfect gift for just about everyone on your list. That’s Baba Souk. Full of color, pattern, and inspiration, all under the online roof of an indie boutique.

And they’re helping to make your holiday shopping that much easier by offering a 15% discount with the code designcrush through November 30th! (Thanks, Baba Souk. You’re definitely on Santa’s Nice List this year!)

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This post is sponsored by Baba Souk. All words and opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that help keep Design Crush going!

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imm Living (+ a Giveaway)

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White accessories are some of my favorite to add to my home, they add so much personality without the clutter. A few weeks ago Imm Living asked me to choose some of my favorite pieces from their collection to style for their Choo Choo Chooses campaign and I jumped at the chance. Imm is the absolute king of white and one of the best at marrying playfulness and functionality in their accessories.

I immediately gravitated towards the Socialites. Both of their hats can be removed to stash little collections, but I think I’ll be using them as occasional vases for seasonal flowers and greenery this holiday season.

 

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I fell fast for the King’s Subject Containers, namely the hippo with the sweet little bird perched upon his nose. Right now he’s hard at work with a nosegay of wildflowers on my coffee table, but I’m also looking forward to putting him to work holding my favorite pens. I love how imm’s pieces lend themselves to multiple uses!

 

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I’ve been searching for just the right cake plate for some time now, and knew I’d found it when I saw the horse head Takes the Cake Plate! I can’t wait to serve hors d’oeuvres and other treats to guests atop his majestic head, but rather than put this guy behind closed doors in the cupboard I’ve decided to place him front and center on my dining table to collect keys, sunglasses, etc.

 

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This gold Lucky Break Wishbone Wall Hook was a no-brainer, as I’m forever searching for ways to organize my necklaces and to keep them from tangling with one another. I also wouldn’t mind the little bit of luck it might bring!

 

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That’s right, you have a chance to win all five pieces! And one last little surprise, Burke Decor has partnered with Imm Living and is offering you all 15% off storewide (including Imm Living), just enter the code IMMLIVING15 during checkout. Time to start crossing those holiday gifts off your list! You can also like Imm Living on Facebook for the latest updates!

 

This giveaway is now closed. Congratulations, Caitlin!

To Enter:
1. In the comments section below, tell me your favorite item from my picks above!
2. Leave a valid email address in the form (for notification purposes).
3. Do it all before Sunday, November 23, 2013 at 11:59pm CST.

Giveaway Rules + Disclosures.

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Happy Weekend

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01/ Last Supper, notebook illustrations of characters sitting down for a meal.
02/ The Gooyesh Language Institute in Iran is made entirely of letters!
03/ Door to Hell is an aptly named crater in Turkmenistan that’s been burning for 40 years.
04/ The super expressive face of Jazzy the border collie.
05/ The art of smoke bombs and fireworks.
06/ Athlete compares the vastly different body types of Olympic athletes.
07/ Sad/creepy abandoned Santa parks of the world.
08/ Bring the beach indoors with this incredible surfboard table and benches!
09/ A super fun play net creates a kids’ reading level in a library.
10/ Party cheat sheets full of infographics for holiday event planning.

This week on Design Crush:
Listen to November’s Mix #30: I’m Waiting Here.
Plenty of 2014 calendars for you to choose from in Part 2 + Part 3 of our roundups.
Get a head start on your holiday entertaining with this fantastic giveaway from B by Brandie!
Sweater weather is here and we’ve shared 12 of our favorites.
I’m not hosting this year, but here’s my imaginary Thanksgiving 2013!
These Leaf Rugs also double as blankets.
Crazy layered acrylic paintings from Yago Hortal.
It’s time to think about advent calendar prep – here are 14 that are great!

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My (Imaginary) Thanksgiving 2013

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I’m a planner by nature. As a 10 year old I drew floor plans for fun and throughout school rewrote notes to relax. NERD ALERT! Now I love that planning is a part of running Design Crush, and there’s not much I love more than planning a good dinner party – real or imagined! (You can see Thanksgiving 2012 right here.)

 

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THE COCKTAILS
Pomegranate + Blackberry Lemondrop
Spiced Amaretto Apple Cider Kiss
Satsuma and Pomegranate Campari

THE APPS
Oven Baked Camembert with Honey Roasted Figs
Zucchini Chips
Sweet Onion Crack Dip

THE DECOR
Colossal Golden Wishbone
DIY Laurel Wreath
Mini Brass Square Candle Houses
Gold Glitter Garland
Solid Brass Coasters
Thanksgiving Banner

THE TABLE
Castle Peak Dinnerware
Arrow & Adobe Linen Napkins
Aueux Carving Set
Enchanted Ikat Table Runner
French Paddle
Graphic Pitcher
Industrial Inspired Metal Candle Holders
Mercury Glass Taper Holders
Metallic Print Glassware Set
Rose Gold Flatware
Rose Gold Salad Set
DIY Rosemary Wreath Place Cards

DINNER
Acorn Squash and Pancetta Soup
Autumn Arugula Salad
Caramelized Coconut Butter Apples
Caramelized Sweet Potatoes
Citrus and Herb Roasted Turkey
Herbed Bread and Cherry Cranberry Stuffing
Honey Maple Beer Bread
Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts Slaw
Pumpkin Sage Polenta

DESSERT
Greek Style Pumpkin Pie
Honey & Whiskey Apple Tarts
Maple Pudding Cakes

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B by Brandie (+ a Giveaway)

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This morning I’m excited to share a brand spankin’ new line of home accessories with you – the site just went live today! B for Brandie is out to add a dash of fashion to the table in a very chic way. Fresh colors, sophisticated patterns and contemporary designs abound in their debut collection that features dinnerware, flatware, glassware, placemats and napkins. The best part is that it’s all made to be mixed and matched, bringing a very personal touch each and every time you gather around the table. Perfect with the holidays being just around the corner and entertainment being taken up a necessary notch.

 

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To get those wintery dinner party juices flowing, one of you has the chance to win two of these brilliant blue-themed place settings along with a pair of Olivia Champagne Wine Combo Glasses (my favorite!)! Each setting from B for Brandie includes an Astor Charger Plate in grayVanderbilt Dinner Plate in navyTruman Dessert/Salad Plate in turquoise, and a Truman Bowl in navy as well as a set of Olivia Champagne Wine Combo Glasses that can be used as wine or champagne glasses with a flip!

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED.
Congratulations, Brittany!

To Enter:
1. Leave a comment below telling us your favorite entertaining secret.
2. Like B by Brandie on Facebook.
3. Leave a valid email address in the form (for notification purposes).
4. Do it all before Sunday, November 17th at 11:59pm CST.

Giveaway Rules + Disclosures

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Apple Dumplings + West Elm

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Almost every one of my favorite recipes has a story, so when West Elm asked me to share one of my favorite holiday traditions I knew just the one. When I was in elementary school my grandparents looked after me once school was out every day. My Grandpa picked me up at the bus stop and drove me the fifteen minutes to their house in the next town where my mom would scoop me up after work. Most days when I got into his car there would be a snack waiting for me – an orange we would share or a coconut macaroon cookie. But on really special fall days there was nothing until we got back to their house and I walked in the door to the sight of my Grandma’s apple dumplings, perfectly golden and smelling like heaven. Those apple dumplings meant that the holidays (as well as winter vacation) were right around the corner!

Now that I make my own I cut a corner or two, but the end result still gives me that same feeling of being cozy and loved. I picked up a Scape Oval Baking Dish (the perfect size for four apple dumplings) and a set of Universal Expert Wooden Utensils from West Elm Market to make the recipe all the more fun to pull together and share with you. I can already tell that these pieces are going to get a major workout over the next few months between casseroles and baked goods!

 

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Apple Dumplings

• 4 medium-large apples (I used Fuji)
• 1/4 C quick cooking oats
• 1/4 C brown sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 4 pie crusts (I use pre-made)
• 4 tsp butter
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla
• granulated sugar for dusting

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees and spray a large baking dish with cooking spray in preparation. Make or (or open) your go-to pie crust recipe (each apple will use one crust). In a small bowl mix together the oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon then set aside. Peel and core the apples. Roll out (or lay out) one pie crust and set an apple in the center. Fill the hollowed out core with the oat-brown sugar-cinnamon mixture all the way to the top, then place a teaspoon of butter on top. Fold up the edges of the crust, making sure to pinch the seams as you go along. Repeat the process with the other three apples and set each one in the baking dish. Beat the egg and vanilla together and brush all over each dumpling, then dust with sugar. Bake for 50 minutes or until golden brown. These are delicious served with Brown Sugar Sauce (recipe below) or served with fresh whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. One dumpling could easily be split between two people.

 

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Brown Sugar Sauce

• 1/4 C brown sugar
• 1/4 C water

Combine brown sugar and water in a small saucepan. Simmer until reduced and thickened.

This post has been sponsored by West Elm. Thank you for supporting the brands that help keep Design Crush going! West Elm is offering 20% off all tabletop items until November 26th.

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Wave and Picket

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Tiles can either be traditional and boring or fresh and interesting, there’s not really a lot of middle ground to be covered. Fireclay Tile recently released two new designs in their Debris series – Wave and Picket – that fall squarely (no pun intended) into the second category. Wave captures the feel of the undulating Pacific Ocean while Picket  transforms the iconic pattern into a bold, geometric design. Both use up to 70% recycled materials that are sourced with 200 miles of their Northern California factory – not only is that good for the environment, but it also results in one of the hardest tiles available.

 

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Happy Weekend

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01/ Mica Angela Hendricks illustrates heads and let’s her 4 year old draw the bodies!
02/ Fantastic 3D drawings by Ben Heine.
03/ A floating rainbow made from 840 sheets of colored paper.
04/ This little bike really is the ultimate IKEA hack!
05/ Illustrations of every outfit Walter White ever wore in seasons 1-5 of Breaking Bad.
06/ This clever outdoor color installation mimics lamplight.
07/ A man spent 20 years building kinetic carnival rides to advertise a family restaurant.
08/ Beautifully graphic crystal stemware from Scholten & Baijings.
09/ Banksy set up an anonymous booth in Central Park + sold his original art for $60 a pop!
10/ Just some regular guys as underwear models.

This week on Design Crush:
Mix #29: You Hold My Hand and Tell Me It’s Fine
Shannon Finley
All Spooked Up
Mark Lovejoy
Party Prints
Variopointe
Marbelous Wood
Tips&Tricks: Being Green
Anek

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