How To: Zebra Bench Reupholstery

One of my favorite pieces in my apartment is a writing desk that I got from my Pap.  As a child, I always loved looking for secret drawers in the desk and new details in the wood carvings.  This weekend I found a bench to go with the desk which will also give me options for extra seating for parties.  

 

One of my biggest tips for thrifting is to take catalogue of what you could use.  One of the things I lack is extra seating, so I am always looking for small stools, etc.  I think that this bench probably came from a vanity.  Also know what colors/shapes work with what you have.  My living room has lots of black and white with touches of metallics and pink.  I thought that this bench could fit into my decor.  

 Excess zebra print fabric from a chair I had professionally reupholstered was my inspiration. 

All of my supplies laid out: fabric, scissors, staple gun, staples, screw driver, cleaning solution, paper towels.  

Return to Oakland: Leopard Hat

Hat and Coat: Vintage; Necklace: Baubble Bar; Dress and Belt: J Crew

I had a Junior League event in Oakland, where the University of Pittsburgh has its campus.  Being back in work clothing felt very surreal.  It was a great reminder how much things have changed in the years since law school graduation. 

 The hat is one of my favorite vintage finds ever. 

Had a great time with some glam girls. 

Laura x

In the Neon Snow

Earmuffs: Uggs; Coat: Vintage; Purse: Mulberry (for Target); Gloves: Topshop

Everything has seemed all white and grey this week with the snow.  Monday morning was much better with neon and leopard.  Photographed at the remnants of the Mellon Estate in Shadyside. 

Earmuffs: Uggs

Boots: Sorel Joan of Arctic

Sweater: Gap; Blouse: Calvin Kline; Necklace: Target; Belt: JCrew; Skirt: Talbots

Leopard and neon together wouldn't normally work, but I think the classic shape of the skirt and the neutral bases of the rest of the outfit made it OK.  The sweater is draped around my shoulders. 

A once glamorous estate still in the snow.  

Laura x

Window Shopping

Tetbury, England

I used to go "window shopping" with my Grandmother in downtown Pittsburgh when I would visit from Ithaca.  The big department stores were a change from Ithaca's boutiques and I loved them.  Window displays tempt shoppers to browse the store's wears.  Some of the best are truly art pieces.  Here are some of my favorites.

Selfridge's in London...my favorite store in the world

Taxidermy store in rural Tetbury, Glouchestire

Was too bizarre not to photograph

Manolo Blahnik, Kensington, London

Christian Lacroix, Kensington

Salvatore Ferragamo- Flagship store, Florence, Italy

Birmingham, England

Oxford Street, London

Penhaligon's Perfumer-Edinburgh, Scotland

Christian Louboutin, Edinburgh

Harvey Nics: Edinburgh

Mulberry: Glasgow, Scotland

Chanel: Florence, Italy

Window displays reflect the city they are in and the global business of glamor.

Laura x

Grecian Hair and Leather Jacket

Leather coat: vintage, Blazer: Valentino, Necklace: Kate Spade: Top: H&M

Carnegie Museum in Oakland.  Attempt at wet winter wear. 

Bracelet length sleeves add interest

Medusa Updo...twist hair and pin

Evil eye bracelet, Nails: new favorite color-Revlon Gray Suede

Coat from "Alexander's East Liberty"

These glamorous settings were the perfect backdrop to perk up a dreary mood. 

Laura x

How To: Southwestern Succulents Garden

I think that fresh plants add a lot to a living space.  I bought this vintage bowl/planter at the thrift store this weekend.  It isn't my normal style, but I was inspired to make it into a southwest themed garden. 

I chose a variety of succulents and bought rocks and cactus soil to complete the project.  

The lines of the bowl are seem southwestern, I like that the light blue and green aren't traditionally "southwest."  

The inscription on the bottom reads:  To Mom....Atlantic Mold....From Eda & Tom.....Christmas 1976.

British Beauty Haul

Every type of L'Oreal Elnett imaginable!!

I have a confession.  I am totally obsessed with drug stores, especially ones that has brands and products that I don't normally have access to.  

Kate Moss for Rimmel

One of my first and last stops in England are always Boots and Superdrug. 

A whole section of false eyelashes

There are even brands by European DJs

 Elnett is only recently available in the states.  I swear by it.  I have only found two types in Pittsburgh, this Boots had dozens. 

My Mom and I are obsessed with this spa's products

I also try new products.  This time it is "Backcomb in a bottle."  It makes my hair really straw-like and voluminous. 

Katy Perry eyelashes....no judgment!!!

Mini sizes for desk, purse and travel

The classic: cocoa, rose, and aloe flavored Vaseline

These products cause my undue stress with the weight of my checked suit case each trip, but are totally worth it for the getting to indulge in the best drug store glamor aids I can get my hands on!

Laura x