Emeralds and Black Leather

We've seen so much emerald green this year, and I couldn't be happier. No color is more uplifting or optimistic than this color of renewal, fertility and youth. It's the reason I love visiting Wisconsin in the Spring. The landscape is that intense, lush green of Ireland. (Of course, they've earned it after those winters!) I especially love emerald green with black and gold. Classic, crisp and just plain gorgeous.

I'm happy that it's still going strong on the runway this fall. You know I'm already Fantasy Shopping. Have a look at the things I've found, like this regal Versace military coat (a steal at $4,675) and emerald ring, which I'd pair with leather leggings and Valentino studded booties. (A lady with an edge.) The python clutch with gold coral clasp is the piece de resistance! Forget Missoni for Target. This is what I'm buying this week! In my dreams and on my blog.

Here are some spaces along the same lines. Love the way Europeans mix periods and styles with total nonchalance. Notice the Victorian ceiling above a very modern fixture and furnishings.

What can I say. I can't stop staring at this image above. Timeless. Who can guess what decade this is from? Bet you're wrong. Bet I'm wrong; I don't actually know. There are hints of the last five...and I'm still trying to source that fixture. Anyone?

A lovely vignette from Cristi Holcombe!

GORGEOUS! Though it wouldn't really work at the kids' hockey games. Unless! I wear that Versace coat!

via The Decorista

This color combo even works well in bathrooms, where it goes from sexy glam to clean and fresh.

I love the way Miles Redd layered emerald paintings over the emerald walls. And speaking of paintings, here's one from my gallery, Green Elephant Studios, by a mixed media artist (paint, ink and tape - 19x19) {email me for purchase info}

Emerald leather works, too. Is this delicious or what! {email me for purchase info, Honey, 'cuz our anniversary's coming up and I'm just trying to help you out.}

Serious Prep School Style

As leaves burst with fall colors and dormitories all over the country fill with students, I'm once again reminded of aspiring designer Maximilian Sinsteden's digs. He's now well on his way in the world of interior design, in part thanks to this NYTimes article that brought him to my attention.

But I still love to look back at how it all began, here, with his uber preppy dorm room at Drew University. Even the most talented studio art directors could only hope to get "dishelved prep" so right. I think the only other person to take this affectation of young American WASP to such heights of perfection was that Jewish kid from the Bronx, Ralph Lifshitz. Or as we all came to know him, Ralph Lauren. 

Note the Bunny Williams book at the far right. I just love that green paint and his artful tie display.

A mix of plaids, paisleys, and persian rugs makes this one very stylish dorm.

No posters on this gallery wall.

Something tells me while the rest of the kids were chugging flat beer from plastic cups, Mr. Sinsteden was stirring some mean Tanqueray and tonics, in vintage Baccarat.