Archive for the ‘Chic Shack’ Category

Looking for ways to spruce up your abode? We have the inside scoop on expert designing tips, home goods sales, and designer look-a-likes here, within our Chic Shack.

Rug burn.

March 22nd, 2010 by Catherine

Apartment hunting went really well this weekend and we’re thisclose to signing our lease, subletting the unit from a couple looking to move immediately. We’re waiting for a few documents to come through, and then we’ll be set to move! So now comes the fun part – decorating a blank slate.

After falling in love with this rug from West Elm, I immediately launched into an intensive search for something much more affordable. This one from Overstock.com is similar enough in design, and although it’s not the sunny yellow I was after, the blue is much more boy-friendly.

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I adore its bold patterns and goes-with-anything palette, but the price is what truly sold me. At $126.99, it’s a total steal that’s going to break up our white carpet, hide a multitude of sins through a high-traffic area, and create a cozy focal point in our sweet little home.

Read the rug.

March 19th, 2010 by Catherine

If all goes well this weekend, my boyfriend and I will have signed a lease on our first apartment together. And in celebration, I’ll be running out to snap up this darling little rug. I refuse to believe that a rented apartment is any less a home than a purchased one, and judging by this rug’s message, neither do the folks at Urban Outfitters.

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{Home Sweet Apartment Rug, Urban Outfitters, $18.00}

Hooked on you.

March 18th, 2010 by Catherine

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As I’ve documented here and here, I’m eagerly anticipating the big move. I’ve suddenly become hyper aware of decorating ideas, and take inspiration from absolutely everywhere, which is what happened when I was trolling Urban Outfitters’ website for marked-down accessories. Given that we’ll likely be short on closet space, I’ve got my eye on this darling wall rack for coats so we can free up enough room for all my clothes. The simple message and charming color are perfect together on a bare wall, and also add that always-important touch of whimsy I’m tirelessly seeking.

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{Writing on the Wall Coat Rack, Urban Outfitters, $19.99}

Daily Diamond: West Elm Faceted Mirror Side Table

March 17th, 2010 by Catherine

This past weekend, my boyfriend and I braved the torrential rain and hurricane-force winds to apartment hunt. Our timing wasn’t the best, but we managed to successfully find a building we liked, and despite not having signed a formal lease yet, I’ve already begun mentally decorating the place. First was my new comforter. Now I’ve got my eye on this stunning side table from West Elm. The antique feel is precisely what I’m looking for in an accent piece for my imaginary living room, and while the price is a little steep, I’m willing to make the splurge on something that won’t go out of style in a heartbeat.

Now all we need to do is commit to a place so I can get decorating!

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{Faceted Mirror Side Table, West Elm, $199.00}

Spring has sprung at Target.

March 15th, 2010 by Catherine

There was a whole lot of buzz leading up to Liberty of London’s launch at Target. The British house of prints created a collection of home goods, women’s clothing, accessories, and more, all in their signature spring patterns. I started swooning for everything when I first spied their lookbook, but I’m particularly taken by these cheery plates. I can’t imagine my cooking could ever taste bad when served on such darling dinnerware.

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Playing house.

March 10th, 2010 by Catherine

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After four years of dating, my boyfriend and I are taking the plunge…and moving in together. With a new job on the horizon, the timing is right, and while I’m excited about this big step, I’m even more delighted by the idea of redecorating. While we’ve yet to settle on an apartment that works for both of us (and our commutes), that hasn’t stopped me from “playing house” and imagining what our rooms will look like. My current obsession, as mentioned before, are rumpled-let-structured duvets, like this one from West Elm. It’s neutral enough to suit my man’s taste, but darling enough to appease my girly side.

{Organic Cotton Pin-Tuck Duvet, West Elm, $15.00-$119.00}

Sandy comfort.

March 9th, 2010 by Catherine

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There’s only one thing I love more than the beach itself – a giant, plush beach blanket to loll around on all day. Having never been a fan of narrow towels, I rejoiced last year when I came across Target’s own brand of oversized, 6′x6′ blankets, marked down to $4 at the time. I bought the last two in August 2009, and have been on the hunt for them again ever since. This year they’re back (hurrah!), and despite being full price, I stocked up on two to keep me and my beach bum friends comfy for as long as they last (which by Target’s high standards, seems to be forever).

Update: I hunted and hunted for a link on Target’s website, but it isn’t up yet. Check your local store for now, and keep coming back here for when the website is stocked, too.

Owls, owls, everywhere.

March 5th, 2010 by Catherine

Earlier in the week, I wrote about my curious affection for these adorable little owl candles. This, in turn, has sparked a budding new obsession with them.

{Owl Letter Holder, Urban Outfitters, $24.00}

{Owl Letter Holder, Urban Outfitters, $24.00}

Bills will never go unnoticed when perched on this little guy.

{Owl Carry You Necklace, Forever21, $5.80}

{Owl Carry You Necklace, Forever21, $5.80}

Such a sweet little necklace at an even sweeter price.

{Creature Kingdom Owl Hook, Anthropologie, $20.00}

{Creature Kingdom Owl Hook, Anthropologie, $20.00}

I could probably even train my boyfriend to hang up his coat on a hook as charming as this one.

{Owl Ring, Urban Outfitters, $16.00}

{Owl Ring, Urban Outfitters, $16.00}

I love nothing more than a big, bold ring. It’s even better when it’s of my new favorite animal.

Daily Diamond: Potterybarn Filigree Star Pendant

March 3rd, 2010 by Catherine
Star light, star bright.

Star light, star bright.

I’ve long loved the light created by star-shaped lanterns. There’s just something so magical and sweet about a candle flickering within its gothic-inspired cage. Ever since spying these options from Potterybarn, I’m on the hunt for more affordable alternatives in time for summer. It’s my dream to dine outside, under the stars, surrounded by stars.

Star struck.

Star struck.

{Filigree Star Pendants, Potterybarn, $79.00 – $99.00}

Daily Diamond: Modern Dose Owl Candles

March 2nd, 2010 by Catherine

Owl Candles

Forgive the pun, but whooooo wouldn’t want a pair of these darling little owl candles perched on a coffee table or bookshelf? I’m not sure I could, but would you have the heart to actually burn the little guys?

Available at Modern Dose for $26.00.