C.WHIMSY DESIGNS

Friday Fun Moodboard: Persnickety

2012-01-27T16:30:00.001-06:00

Happy Friday! Here's a sneak peek at the inspiration behind a recent project titled, Persnickety! I'm still in the early stages of the project, but I cannot wait to complete design and share with you!

Drawing A Day 113: Panama Hat

2012-01-26T16:30:00.000-06:00

Drawing A Day 112: Lace

2012-01-25T16:30:00.000-06:00

Chairloom

2012-01-24T17:32:00.000-06:00

The more I study Baroque and Rococo architecture, art, and style, the more I become obsessed with the concept of restoring ornamental or gilded furniture. As much as I would love to stumbled upon a diamond in the rough locally, I just haven't found a piece in second hand stores and, so far, I have yet to get up early enough to hunt the estate and garage sales. Instead, I'll turn to Chairloom. I adore the philosophy behind this company... finding old pieces and giving them second chances. Don't you love these pieces?!

Drawing A Day 111: Streets of Paris

2012-01-23T16:35:00.000-06:00

Friday Fun Moodboard: Worn Bold Palette

2012-01-20T16:38:00.001-06:00

Ever since I had the amazing opportunity to travel to Lyon, I've been extremely inspired by the colors and tones of the city. Many of the walls are covered with beautiful worn in bold tones that create an unexpected but complementary palette. Now that coral is so dominant in retail, I'm beginning to notice the same pairings of unexpected colors that, with the right about of desaturation, work really nicely together. What do you think? Don't you just love that rust colored pant, peachy pink top, and panama hat? I'm just waiting for a bride to come to meet with this palette! Until then, it's going on the C.Whimsy inspiration board!

Image Credits: ***, ***, C.Whimsy Designs, ***,***, C.Whimsy Designs

Drawing A Day 110: Barbara Palvin

2012-01-19T17:14:00.002-06:00

Working Away

2012-01-18T17:13:00.000-06:00

Setting up my student design space and working away this evening next to some beautiful flowers! Hope you're having a great week!

Goal 1 of 2012: Master of Fine Arts

2012-01-17T19:09:00.000-06:00

I get to check off a MAJOR goal on my list... Master of Fine Arts in Graphic Design! Well, I guess it's only half way checked off since I'm just beginning, but I'm anxious, thrilled, pumped (and slightly nervous) about stepping down from Graphic Design Coordinator at LSU Athletics to a graduate assistant position and becoming a full time student! As you know from some of the work I posted last semester, I began taking a class in the Fall, which helped me to get my feet wet and and take the leap this semester. I'm so excited to begin exploring, studying, and researching so many of the topics I've been adding to my "interest" list for the past few years that I've started investigating on my own but haven't had the real time to dedicate and hope it will enhance my work and C.Whimsy Designs. I can't wait to share with you along the way! Today's homework... draw for three hours... really?! that's homework? I'll take it!!

Image Credit: ***

Inspiration Files: Peachy Nude

2012-01-16T17:06:00.000-06:00

Looks as though the 2012 Golden Globe red carpet stylists took inspiration from Miss Emma Stone's 2011 soft macaroon palette. The peachy nude color reminds me of the first smidgen of warm weather during the cold weather months... you know it's still Winter, but it makes you crave Spring!

Friday Fun Moodboard: Mint and Mango

2012-01-13T16:30:00.001-06:00

If you're anything like me, your obsession with orange has been taken to a new high after these past few seasons. Once again, looks like I'll be stocking up on my favorite color before it's no longer the it color. Now that mint green seems to be sneaking in to the mix, I'm pairing the pastels to freshen up the fashion and stationery palette for Spring.

Image Credits ***.***.***.***.***.***.***.***

Advertising Federation Addy Awards

2012-01-12T16:30:00.002-06:00

You may remember a few of these pieces I shared from the course I took in Fall. Well, today is Baton Rouge Advertising Federation call for entries and I'm excited to see if the work is up to snuff! Looks like I'll be crossing my fingers a little longer while I wait for Addy Awards (and the Minted contest to wrap... p.s. you can vote here and here!)

Minted.com Art Print Design Challenge

2012-01-11T16:40:00.000-06:00

Voting is finally open! Hooray! I'd love to hear what you think and, of course, your vote would be fabulous! The two were designed as a pair, so here's hoping for the Minted.com Art Print Challenge "Rule Of Two Award." You can vote here for "Nerdy Cute" and here for "All In The Details" Keeping my fingers crossed!

Happy Tuesday + Working Away

2012-01-10T16:30:00.001-06:00

Working away and singing this while marking off to-dos! "Work, turn to the left, work, now turn to the right...." See you tomorrow!

Be Back Tomorrow!

2012-01-09T16:30:00.001-06:00

Image Credits: ***,***

Friday Fun Moodboard: Do Whatcha Wanna

2012-01-06T16:30:00.003-06:00

Today's moodboard is a compilation of inspiration that all comes back to one thought: Do whatcha wanna! These inspirations are slightly all over the place and calling on multiple senses, so stay with me! With the start of Mardi Gras (had my first king cake of the season yesterday!), which goes hand in hand with New Orleans jazz, I'm singing in my head the lyrics of Rebirth Brass Band's "Do Watcha Wanna" If you don't know it or even if you do, take a listen! It'll get you in the right state of mind for this board. With the start of the new year, I'm inspired to do all the things I want to do, whether or not it breaks the rules, and by breaking the rules I mean legal stuff like eating cake for breakfast or wearing orange from head to toe, because like the quote from Mrs. Hepburn... and of course you want to listen to her since we all know how she reprimands.. eh hm, check it out here... at least one person will be pleased! If that doesn't have you excited enough to go out and do what you want to, check out this interview with Tom Ford. I knew his clothing but not much about him. His point of view is pretty inspiring and I'm intrigued by anyone who can live life saying "If it's not fun, I don't want to do it." The piece is a little long, but you'll want to watch in full... til the end!

So now, what do you wanna do? Anything on the agenda for 2012?

Image Credits: ***,***,***

Drawing A Day 109: Part 1

2012-01-05T16:30:00.001-06:00

Inspiration Files: Black & White Speckled

2012-01-04T16:30:00.004-06:00

A twist on the perfectly symmetrical polka dot... speckled. The asymmetry of these marks creates a modern chic version of the classic polka dot!

Image Credits: ***.***.***.***.

Birch Trees and Leaves of Wyoming Inspired Wedding Suite

2012-01-03T16:30:00.011-06:00

Starting off the new year right with a celebration and a wedding suite! Congratulations to Kasey and Vanessa who recently tied the knot! You caught a little peek of their suite here. Vanessa, a very creative DIY bride, was inspired from the start by the birch trees of her home state, Wyoming. Many of the elements from the illustrations, typography, and texture derived from the outdoor inspiration. To give the typography a rustic but elegant feel, the text was set with a slight letterpress feel and a bit of aged ink.

Hope you had a fabulous holiday! Still can't believe it's a new year, but I'm so excited to share another year with you and have got my goal (not resolution...) list ready and raring to go!

Drawing A Day 107: Christmas Card

2011-12-22T16:30:00.001-06:00

You had a peak at part 1, part 2, and now... the final piece! Christmas cards are out for snail mail! I'll be away from the blog until the new year to spend time with family and to take a little trip... to New York! but I'll be checking email and posting pics here. Can't believe January 1, C.Whimsy Designs' blogiversary, is right around the corner! I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas and see you back here in the new year!

A Rita Hayworth/Janis Joplin Kind Of Christmas

2011-12-21T16:03:00.003-06:00

Today, I feel like Rita Hayworth in this photo singing Janis Joplin's, "Oh, I got a brand new pair of roller skates..." except I don't have roller skates, but I do have a new bike for Christmas! (Thanks RJ!) Check it out here. There are so many details I love about these pieces, but my favorite part is an unexpected one... the bell! The sound is so cute! Seriously, I'm geeking out about the bell.

What's on your Christmas wish list?

Inspiration Files: Silver Bells & Lamé

2011-12-20T16:30:00.003-06:00

With the Christmas music taking over the radio (since November. Don't get me wrong, I love it, but I've heard the same songs over and over again.) I'm beginning to channel my inner carol singer. While listening to silver bells, I began thinking how lovely a silver lamé black tie Winter wedding would be.

Image Credits: ***.***.***.***.***

Drawing A Day 108: All In The Details + Minted.com Contest Entries

2011-12-19T16:30:00.004-06:00

You've seen part 1 and 2, now... ta da! C'est fini! Even more exciting... it's time for another minted.com contest! I'm so pumped about this one too. About a year ago, I filled out a survey offering feedback and requesting that Minted host an art or illustration based contest and now it's happening! We're still in the critiquing phase, but entries close Jan. 4. Voting will begin soon after and I would absolutely love your vote! Not only is this contest something I've been wishing for, but the first and second prize winners receive a monetary prize, which would be huge for jump starting the C.Whimsy 2012 collections, and a trip to San Francisco for the launch of the Minted Art Collection. Woohoo! You guys have been a major support to C.Whimsy Designs and I'm hoping and praying for this one, so, if you don't mind, vote and spread the word!
So a little about the design... Since I'm a little obsessed with art walls, I've decided to design a two part piece that would look great as singular pieces or would begin or fill your own art wall. After talking with one of the minted designers, we decided that a previous contest entry, "Glitz and Glam," would fit the contest well. With edits and a new addition, Drawing a Day 108, we now have "Nerdy Cute" and "All In The Details." What do you think?

Friday Fun Moodboard: Winter White

2011-12-16T16:30:00.000-06:00

Even if it is a faux pas, I'm a sucker for white year round. Winter white? Summer white? White Jeans? Makes no difference to me. I think there's something beautiful about whites with the twinkling Christmas lights, serene overcast look of a chilly day, and (if you actually have snow where you are) the completely neutral palette of winter white against snow. I seem to be channeling less of the weather (since it's 80 degrees out) and more of a new wedding suite that just entered my project queue.

Hope you have a happy weekend!

Image Credits: ***,***,***,***,***,***,***

Nose in the books: French Women for All Seasons

2011-12-15T16:30:00.010-06:00

After flying through this book (so good!) I picked up French Women for All Seasons by the same author who wrote French Women Don't Get Fat. In the preface of the follow up book she talks about how this book is really about enjoying food once you've learned everything from the first book about how to live a non diet life. Though she still offers tips such as the 50% rule (you have to read it to find out!), I'm really enjoying reading about the traditions, memories, and pleasure attached to food. Since I read at night, the only downfall of curling up to a book full of scrumptious recipes... it makes me hungry right before bed!

Have you read either of Mireille Guiliano's books? If so, what did you think?

Collaboration with Southern Marsh Collection: Crab Boil Festival

2011-12-14T16:30:00.004-06:00

Remember this sneak peak? The design is complete and the final pieces are in! I'm so excited to share with you the final T-shirts now available through Southern Marsh and, of course, I love the melon (aka orange!) T-shirt option.

I'd love hear what you think if you'd like to leave a comment below.

Drawing A Day 107: Part 2

2011-12-13T16:30:00.001-06:00

A quick update of Drawing A Day 107.

Inspiration Files: Optometry Chic

2011-12-12T16:30:00.001-06:00

As soon as I spotted this print by the maker's of the "Keep Calm and Carry On" prints, I immediately felt an old optometrist's office vibe. Not only is the concept so clever, but it has provided inspiration for today's post. I imagine finding the piece in an updated chic version of a Normal Rockwell-esqe office full of tweed fashion, circle glasses, and worn in fine leather goods. The palette, though comprised of understated neutrals, is traditional and rich. Can't you see it?

Image Credits: ***,***,***,***,***,***

Friday Fun Moodboard: A C.Whimsy Birthday

2011-12-09T16:33:00.000-06:00

Today's moodboard is a little re-celebration of my birthday, which passed a few weeks ago. In C.Whimsy fashion, I celebrated with a palette of oranges, golds, and neutrals and picked up these wishlist goodies. Of course, I'm in love with my boots, purse, and hat, but I think I'm most excited to be updated to a phone that works quickly enough to keep up with you here!

Words To Live and Design By: She Believed She Could

2011-12-08T16:41:00.000-06:00

I've (finally) changed my chalkboard and updated it with the motto of the week, "she believed she could, so she did!" I've been so busy that I hadn't updated the board since September! So now, I've got empowering words for the week!

Inspiration Files: Simple Pleasures

2011-12-07T16:57:00.001-06:00

A friend of mine sent me this article today and I completely agree with the message, so I want to share it with you. I'm racking up quite a list of books that speak about these exact lessons from the Parisienne way of life, so much so that I feel like I've done research on the topic! The common elements I've found across each story is their ability to "live a passionate way of life" and "take pleasure in the simple things." It's scary how easy it is to get wrapped up in the stress of each day and forget about all of the blessings and pleasures in life! I like to remind myself of the simple pleasures that might be insignificant to others, but really make my day! A few of my simple pleasures:

Drinking coffee in the morning and squeezing in just a few more minutes of the Today show.
Keeping fresh flowers.
Catching up with family and friends.
Walking around the lakes.
Taking a chance on a book and finding out it's really fabulous.
Having long (well, normal length for most people, but long for me!) nails.
Stumbling upon a favorite movie on TV. (Sometimes I even own the movie, but finding it on TV is always better.)
Writing the perfect thank you note and only using one note card. (It's so tough! I always spell something wrong or write the wrong word and have to begin again.)
Having cold enough weather to lounge around in my robe and slippers.
Finding either a Diet Barque's or Diet Sunkist at the convenience store. (They're both so good! Why are they so hard to find?)

What are your simple pleasures?

2011-12-06T16:30:00.012-06:00

Well, Tuesday felt a bit like this. Now, I'm back refreshed and ready take on the day! Hope you're having a good week!

Currently On My Desk: Peonies

2011-12-05T16:30:00.004-06:00

While shopping this weekend, I stumbled upon these ... peonies... in late Fall! I thought they were strictly a Spring flower, but I guess I was mistaken... gladly mistaken! They make me so happy to sit down at my desk and get work done! Hope you're having a good start to the week.

Friday Fun Moodboard: Purple + Red

2011-12-02T16:30:00.000-06:00

A glimpse at some of the inspiration behind a current wedding suite inspired by the Church decor that will be up during the wedding, which will take place during the Easter season. The red and purple, both bold colors, are complemented by a neutral that will also bring in hints of the additional rustic, natural, and romantic inspiration. (and I even got a little bit of orange in the board! love that Moped!! it's on my wishlist here) For the LSU fans, how appropriate is this palette for this weekend's game?! Notice the purple+gold stands out more than red+black... Geaux Tigers! Hope you have a happy weekend!

Drawing A Day 108: Part 2

2011-12-01T16:30:00.000-06:00

Almost complete!

2011-11-30T17:36:00.000-06:00

Well, hello there! Hope you're having a good week! Have you seen this movie yet? I'm intrigued by the beautiful visuals and photography. What do you think?

Currently On My Desk: Making Extra Large Envelopes

2011-11-29T17:53:00.000-06:00

Well, actually... currently on my floor. These envelopes are so large they don't fit on my desk! It's my first go at large format printing and over sized envelope making, but so far so good and it really fits the project concept.

2011-11-28T18:05:00.002-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-23T16:30:00.002-06:00

Drawing A Day 108: Part 1

2011-11-22T16:30:00.003-06:00

Starting a new for a fun contest! Tell you about it soon...

Hand Lettering

2011-11-21T16:30:00.004-06:00

I was once told that hand lettering and illustration are cousins. The abilities go hand in hand. Over the past few years I've dabbled with lettering but am starting to really enjoy a particular style and incorporating it into design pieces. These are just a couple of projects I messed with over the weekend. Hope you had a great one!

Friday Fun Moodboard: Tartan/Plaid

2011-11-18T16:30:00.001-06:00

The chilly temps have me channeling the spirit of an old Scotsman/Lumber Jack. Although one plaid or tartan pattern may be enough to overwhelm the eye, I suddenly feel the need to pile on layers of different plaids! If you're feeling the need for a little (or a lot) of stripes in your life, check out this DIY to make your own trendy version of the classic piece. Hope you have a cozy happy weekend!

Image Credit: ***,***,***,***,***,***,***,***,***,***,***,***,***,***,***

Inspiration Files: Polka Dot Patterns

2011-11-17T16:30:00.003-06:00

Image Credits: ***,***,***,***,***

Letterpress Set Up

2011-11-16T17:38:00.000-06:00

Ink and base are ready to go!

Words To Live and Design By: More Than You Can Chew

2011-11-15T16:51:00.000-06:00

Heck yeah! Today's quote makes me want to go out and take on every item on my to do and goal lists that I've put on the back burner! and for the ADD part of me.... it makes me want to bake typography letters. Such a cool type experiment by designer, Anna Garforth.

Inspiration Files: Firewood Collection

2011-11-14T16:46:00.000-06:00

A glimpse at inspiration from a recent project, which has built up my excitement for a Winter fire. This weekend I finally!! got to make a fire and it was so cozy and fabulous and now... we're back to 80 degrees out. Here's wishing for another cold snap! Hope you're having a happy Monday!

Happy Friday + Letterpress Goodies

2011-11-11T18:16:00.000-06:00

Letterpress paper samples just arrived! One step closer to printing! Woohoo! Hope you have a great weekend!

Inspiration Files: Fall Color, Leaves

2011-11-10T16:41:00.000-06:00

It was such a beautiful day today and the leaves were trickling to the ground everywhere, so I stop to snap a few. Don't you just love the golden, brown, and red tones? Hope you're having a wonderful Fall day wherever you are!

Words: Live Life

2011-11-09T16:48:00.002-06:00

This is so true! Especially when I have designer's block. A few things I like to do to "live life":
1. Photography
2. Shop
3. Listen to Music (Love the Pride and Prejudice Soundtrack!)
4. Exercise
5. Grow/Buy Fresh Flowers
6. Read
7. Bake
8. The Best For Last, Draw!

Image Credit: ***

Inspiration Files: Soft Macaroon Palette

2011-11-08T16:42:00.000-06:00

How lovely and plush is this palette? I don't even use a mouse pad, but I think I might have to add one to my workspace now that I've found this!

Nose in the Books: J'adore New York

2011-11-07T17:42:00.000-06:00

I just finished reading this one, which I highly!! recommend for a bit of French whimsy! It was such a fun read with tons of little excerpts about French culture and suggestions on what to watch and read next. Loved it! So after having such a great book to curl up to, I was anxious for a new book and pretty pumped when this one arrived in the mail just as I was heading out of town Friday! I, of course, thought it would be cute after seeing the reviews build, but even more than that, I'm excited to read it because fellow blogger of Pink Lemonade is the author! If you want to read more about it, there's a great little interview at Barnes and Noble here.

Friday Fun Moodboard: Gold Leaf

2011-11-04T16:30:00.000-05:00

My fascination for gold Rococo elements has been building for a long time, but, now that I'm experimenting with gold leaf, I'm really obsessed! I'm seeing it everywhere! I want to gold leaf everything! Even a bike... over the top? Nah...

Hope you have a good weekend!

Drawing A Day 107: Part 1

2011-11-03T16:56:00.000-05:00

Currently On My Desk: Sketchbook Brainstorming

2011-11-02T17:21:00.001-05:00

Brainstorming for an upcoming project! Hope you're having a great week!

Inspiration Files: Winter Wonder

2011-11-01T16:30:00.000-05:00

Slow on the post from yesterday, but here's a bit of inspiration behind a piece I'm working on. Don't you just feel the cold weather and cozy layers?! Bring on Winter!

Drawing A Day 106: Fall Fashion Must Haves

2011-10-31T16:48:00.001-05:00

Happy Halloween!

Friday Fun Moodboard: Mad Halloween

2011-10-28T16:30:00.002-05:00

I'll let you take a guess what we're going as for Halloween... and I finally get to use some of the inspiration from last year! Hope you have a Happy Halloween. I'll share photos next week!

Image Credits: Board 1: ***,***,***,***,***,***,*** Board 2: ***,***,***,***,***,***,***

Words To Live and Design By: Keep Tremendously Interested

2011-10-27T16:30:00.002-05:00

I must admit the only knowledge I have of Julia Child's struggle to find her passion in life is from Julie and Julia, but a good source, no? I can just imagine her saying this in her awkward tone of voice.
Don't you love the illustrated typography? You can check out more from the designer here.

Custom Design: Elegant Polo Club Meets Rustic Texas Save-The-Dates

2011-10-26T16:30:00.001-05:00

As I mentioned here, I recently wrapped up design on two very fun custom design suites. This one in particular was really a treat, because it is for a best friend of mine! The wedding location presented loads of inspiration from the rustic outdoor feel to the elegance of the sport at the polo club. From colors, treatment, and typography, I'm so excited to see the inspiration showing through each element in the final piece. Hope you enjoy!

Currently On My Desk: Life in the Work Space

2011-10-25T16:30:00.001-05:00

Hooray for wish list purchases! You may have noticed I've moved a few things from the "Wish List" to the "Pieces I've finally purchased..." on Pinterest. I've been doing so much work lately, I decided I needed some life in my workspace to keep me inspired. Moodboards and a clean workspace are usually my go tos for getting into the design groove, but nothing beats the smell of lavender, basil, and the look of gorgeous flowers.

Drawing A Day 106: Part 1

2011-10-24T16:31:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday! Is there Fall weather where you are?! Ours just doesn't seem to want to stick around, but the cooler weather is enough to make me pull out my slippers and robe and make a cup of apple cider... I'll just have to pretend it's cold outside, while I begin work on Holiday designs!

Drawing A Day 105: Part 1 + New Client

2011-10-21T16:31:00.000-05:00

Here's a peek at some preliminary process work for a new client, who I'm really excited to be working with by the way! I'll share once we complete the project. Hope you have a wonderful weekend!

Sew Inspired: To Make A Skirt With Pockets

2011-10-20T16:30:00.002-05:00

After building a little confidence from the success of this skirt, I decided to tackle the same pattern and make a skirt for this weekend's LSU game, but with an addition... pockets! I've worked with them before on this dress, but I remembered it not being so easy. After reading the steps for the pocket on that pattern again, it just clicked! sort of an aha moment! This time, the pockets were sew simple! Hope I haven't jinxed myself for the rest of the project... So far so good!

Words To Live and Design By: Discover & Give + Ornamelle

2011-10-19T16:30:00.001-05:00

Loving the calligraphy and design aesthetic of today's "words to live and design by" by Ornamelle.

Drawing A Day 104: Rachel Zoe

2011-10-18T16:30:00.000-05:00

The stylist herself who sees glamorous designers through those vintage sunglasses...

Inspiration Files: Fall Color, Marigold

2011-10-17T16:30:00.008-05:00

If you were to ask me my favorite color for Fall, I might just have to say Marigold! Gasp, not orange?! Don't worry... I'm still obsessed with the most ridiculously bright color in the palette, but there's something about the muted gold hue of Marigold against the warmer darker tones for Fall... and with a red lip, tres chic! I passed a pile of tiny fallen leaves today and this color jumped out from the rest. What do you think? Are you wearing, decorating, loving Marigold for the season?

Image Credits: ***,***,***,***

Sew Inspired: To Make A Skirt

2011-10-14T16:30:00.000-05:00

Last weekend, it was time to pull out the gold for the LSU football "gold" game, but I didn't have a thing to wear! Well, I guess I had a few things, but I was tired of them or they were just too hot for a day game. I hadn't seen anything in stores that I was in love with either, so... the Friday before the game, I was "sew inspired" that I ran out and bought a fabulous gold fabric and whipped up a skirt... in under two hours! Guess practice is making perfect and... I guess I can challenge myself to something tougher than elastic next time. Hope you like it! and hope you have a wonderful weekend!

Currently On My Desk: Making Envelopes

2011-10-13T18:10:00.001-05:00

Working on a suite, making envelopes, and of course, they're orange! The photo doesn't do the paper justice, but it has a really nice cotton patterned texture. Calling on multiple senses!

Drawing A Day 103: Creative Salvage III

2011-10-12T16:30:00.001-05:00

Well, I know I posted the full project here, but I just realized I never posted this illustration to "Drawing A Day". Now the set is complete!

Drawing A Day 99: Fall Fashion Must Haves

2011-10-11T16:30:00.000-05:00

Drawing A Day 102: Cowboy Boot

2011-10-10T16:30:00.000-05:00

Friday Fun: Orders are in!

2011-10-07T17:05:00.000-05:00

One of the best parts of the job! Love how these turned out! I'll share more later. Have a good weekend!

Words To Live and Design By: Believe The Dots Will Connect

2011-10-06T12:00:00.002-05:00

Posting "words to live and design by" is a little refresher each week and sometimes serves as a reminder that even when I'm stressed, I love what I'm doing! Steve Jobs couldn't have lived or said it better.
"The dots will somehow connect in your future... trust in something... because believing the dots will connect down the road will give you the confidence to follow your heart even when it leads you off the well worn path and that will make all the difference."

Image Credits: ***,***

Drawing A Day 99: Part 2

2011-10-05T18:43:00.000-05:00

Drawing A Day 101: The Miu Miu Glitter Pump

2011-10-04T16:30:00.001-05:00

Drawing A Day: 100 Yippee!!

2011-10-03T17:05:00.000-05:00

100!!! Can't believe it. It's been a fun challenge to make myself keep to and watch as styles progress. Hope you've enjoyed the journey with me and of course, more to come!

Friday Fun Moodboard: Fall Foliage

2011-09-30T16:30:00.001-05:00

I feel like the girl jumping for joy in the photo above... the slight breeze in the air has me so excited for Fall! (even thought it's still in the high 80s...) It's going to be a fabulous weekend outside! Woohoo! and I'll be out there bright and early Saturday morning for an early football game day! Hope you have a wonderful weekend enjoying the Fall-ish weather.

Image Credits: ***,***,***,***

Inspiration Files: Navy Gallery Wall

2011-09-29T16:30:00.000-05:00

Anyone who's seen my home decor knows.. I love a gallery wall! I've tried symmetry, but I just couldn't stand it and since I'm constantly changing photos, drawing, old window shutters.. anything I can find, the gallery is easier to fill in. I really love how these navy walls make the images pop and there's something about the deep blue color that makes the sets looks so much more glamorous and sophisticated. Would you believe it if I told you I had a navy room as a teenager? Yup, the girl who's obsessed with every shade of orange decided to paint the room blue. Don't know what I was thinking, but I do know my walls didn't say "sophisticated" like these. Perhaps, I should revisit the color...

Image Credits: ***,***,***,***,***

Drawing A Day 99: Part 1

2011-09-28T17:26:00.003-05:00

Drawing A Day 98: Part 1

2011-09-27T18:40:00.000-05:00

Words To Live and Design By: I love todays!

2011-09-26T16:30:00.006-05:00

Doesn't this put you in the best mood?! I could go without the crimson colors.. you guys know my aversion to red.. perhaps, I shall create my own redesigned version in orange hm... anyway, it's great way to turn a hectic Monday into a bloody amazing one! Hope you're having a good one!

Friday Fun Moodboard: Tying the Knot in Texas

2011-09-23T16:30:00.001-05:00

You may have guest it from the title... I'm brainstorming for a client's Texas wedding suite. I love love love the inspiration and location she's chosen for the wedding and am having so much fun concepting the suite. Many of the elements have had a rustic feel so far, so I'd like to mix in a bit of color and whimsy for a touch of elegance with the natural look. Don't you just love the texture that the lines and paper of the maps create? and those bluebonnets... so pretty! If you want to see more beautiful bluebonnet inspiration (and the cutest kid's clothing), hop on over to Silly Nilly. The bluebonnet field was the most gorgeous accent to complement the fun colors in the jumpers and rompers.

Hope you have a great weekend!

Image Credits: ***,***,***,***,***,***

"Creative Salvage" Environmental Signage and Web Design

2011-09-22T16:30:00.002-05:00

Well, I mentioned Monday that I'd be sharing the final Creative Salvage project... here it is!

The basic project parameters were to include the words "Creative Salvage," original graphic images, original typographic design, at at least 500 words. For the project, my client was Anthropologie, which I decided to design a store front display and Web page for based on the design proposal. The overall concept was that Anthropologie hired an artist to collaborate with to create a store front display and Web page to promote the Spring 2012 Rain Collection.

The artist, with her style of illustration and use of incorporating salvaged images, was inspired by the rain collection. The rain collections sparked an interest in a poem titled "Rain in Summer," by Henry Longfellow. The poem mentioned images of rain, thrift and grain. From their the artist, used images of thrift and grain such as peonies, lavender, and grain sacks. To further the idea of the poem, the artist used images of writing such as old books, calligraphy, pencil illustration, and chalkboards. All the images ultimately created a feeling of a whimsical happy rainy day shown in hanging banners, hanging chalkboards, and life size umbrellas.

For the portion of the target market who shops online, the store front display and artist collaborative was featured on a special Web page on Anthropologie.com. The Web page gave the shopper the ability to view the store front display through video, learn about the inspiration behind the design, read the poem, and ultimately purchase clothing from the 2012 rain collection.

Though the obvious goal was to create buzz about the 2012 rain collection through an artist collaborative, the ultimate marketing goal was to target a portion of Anthropologie's existing target market and increase awareness of Anthropologie's branding to further separate them from their competitors.

Through the images above, you can get a little glimpse into the design process and work put into building the finals presentation pieces.

Hope you enjoy! I loved designing these banners and pushing my design aesthetic and conception further!

Inspiration Files: Shoes

2011-09-21T16:30:00.000-05:00

I don't know why, but I always love drawing shoes!

Be Back Tomorrow!

2011-09-20T16:30:00.000-05:00

Out today, but new post tomorrow!

Happy Monday + Cocoa & Hearts

2011-09-19T16:35:00.000-05:00

Hope you're having a happy Monday! It was a crazy busy morning starting off with a presentation for this project, which I'll share tomorrow. Nothing like gorgeous work from MadeByGirl/Cocoa&Hearts to get me through the day annnd a tip to get me excited for the week... she's posting new work in the gallery this week! Can't wait to see!

Friday Fun Moodboard: The Weekend!

2011-09-16T16:30:00.001-05:00

Woohoo for the weekend! Time for some much needed dinner and drinks with family, relaxation, waking up to a cup of coffee and... nothing to do!, a matinee movie, and then Sunday... rejuvenated and back to work. Hope you have a good one!

Anthropologie Journal + Inspiration Inside & Out

2011-09-15T16:37:00.001-05:00

So "you're a poet and didn't know it" may rhyme a little better, but, with a journal designed to inspire like these, everyone will definitely know you're a poet... or designer...
You could probably say I just have creative salvage on the brain from the glimpses of the massive creative salvage project I've shared here and here, but, either way, I love the salvage style of these journals designed for Anthropologie by Siobhan Edmonds.
The designer says:
"I hope the spines give you constant inspiration, as I have written lists of the endless possibilities of subjects on could write about in a lifetime! Here is an excerpt: "write all the time write everything write in the morning write when you are unhappy write when it is cold outside write when you have nothing to say write a novel about the old west write a screenplay write when you need to plan write to celebrate write to mourn write to inspire..."
Advice that I think translates pretty well into design. You can never be without a journal or at least a scrap of paper! ... because an idea always seems to hit when you're not expecting it.

Image/Quote Credits: ***

Words: Dreams

2011-09-14T16:30:00.001-05:00

A little mid week motto to keep inspired!

Image Credit: ***

Drawing A Day 97: Creative Salvage II

2011-09-13T16:30:00.001-05:00

A little progress from the latest project...

Inspiration Files: New York Fashion Week

2011-09-12T16:30:00.000-05:00

These images by From Me To You of New York Fashion Week shows by Erin Fetherston and Duro Olowu are fabulous! Explosion of drawing inspiration!! Inspiration is always around, but in certain moments, it's like sensory overload. Too much goodness going on! Seriously, amazing patterns, silhouettes and lines and Ms. Fetherston is so gorgeous with her new sleek do!

Friday Fun Moodboard: Sherbet Love

2011-09-09T16:30:00.000-05:00

Yesterday's pink and yellow inspired today's Friday Fun Moodboard. Sherbet is definitely my favorite frozen dessert. It's not quite yogurt.. not quite ice cream... an assortment of fruity flavors and the colors are so pretty! and orange is my favorite color, so consider me biased about these painting...the color in these pieces is phenomenal! One stand alone piece or a gallery wall full... they're fun and bright, but elegant at the same time. That's a tough combo to create!

Enjoy! Happy Weekend!

Image Credits: ***,***,***,***

Inspiration Files: Pink & Yellow Summer to Autumn

2011-09-08T16:30:00.000-05:00

A palette to transition from bright summer colors to muted Autumn. Who new a sorbet inspired palette could bring you into Fall? (I need that gold skirt for Football season!)

Image Credits: ***,***,***

Drawing A Day 96: Creative Salvage

2011-09-07T16:30:00.000-05:00

Part of a store front display/ Web project for the Graphic Design class I'm taking this semester. Lots! of work, but I'm really loving the direction it's all taking. Stay tuned for the final pieces.

Currently On My Desk: Creative Salvage

2011-09-06T16:30:00.002-05:00

Just a glimpse at a few things I'm currently working on.

Hope you had a wonderful holiday weekend!

Friday Fun Moodboard: Geaux Tigers! Purple & Gold

2011-09-02T12:00:00.003-05:00

Football season is finally here! Though I design in purple and gold everyday for LSU Athletics, I still get excited to wear our colors all season long! So here's a little inspiration for kick off.

Hope you have a happy weekend and Geaux Tigers!

Image Credits:
1. ***,***,***,***,***,***,***,***
2. ***,***,***,***,***,***,***,***
3. ***,***,***,***,***,***,***

Sneak Peek: Watercolor

2011-09-01T16:51:00.001-05:00

A quick sneak peek of a piece of the watercolor behind one of the designs I'm working on. Intrigued? I am! I'm having fun working with new textures and trying out a few new designs. More to come! Hope you're having a good week. Almost Friday! Woohoo

Inspiration Files: 100 Years of Fashion + 1940s Style

2011-08-31T14:30:00.000-05:00

I came across the short commercial above and found inspiration for today's post, 1940's fashion. I've always loved the fashion illustrations, sewing patterns, photographs, and films featuring the World War II Era fashions, but it's strange to think about being drawn to an era with so many challenges... shortages of fabrics and stockings, controls on imports and furs... maybe it's the quality put into the few pieces owned or the sewing abilities many had for making their own well made clothing, but these pieces always seem to be more luxurious and glamorous. Furs, hats, and tailored pieces... yes, please!

Hope you enjoy the video!

Image Credits: ***,***,***,***,***,***,***,***,***,***,***,***,***,***

Drawing A Day 95: Pug & Pink Pants

2011-08-30T16:30:00.008-05:00

C'est fini!

What do you think of the layering? Think I may build the layers a little differently next time. Hope you like it!

Words To Live and Design By: Done, Yay!

2011-08-29T16:44:00.001-05:00

My motto for the week! Love when I get to highlight through the to dos I've completed on my list (and then remake my to do list because I'm a compulsive list maker!)

Image Credit: ***