DECOR CRUSH: COFFEE TABLE BOOKS.

At this point in our online relationship, you guys know how crazed I am when it comes to decorating the 796 square feet that Coco and I call home. Since I can't do what I really want in a rental(rip up the carpet!), I love to switch things up in other ways so that I don't get tired of looking at my little sanctuary. 

One of my favorite ways to update my mini-home's style is by adding and/or swapping out accessories. I just gave up my beloved Christmas scented candle for this little caged beauty, but I have also been playing around with my book collection. 

Coffee table books are a super easy update that make your living room (or bedside table!) look a little extra chic, and add interest without adding the bulk of actual furniture. The only rule you need to follow is stacks on stacks on stacks. Stack city, bitch. Tyga understands me.

coffee table books

1. BOOK OF CHIC 2. ELEMENTS OF STYLE 3. CELEBRATE 4. THE FASHION BOOK 5. GOOD TASTE

6. TOM FORD 7. LIVING IN STYLE 8. JIMMY CHOO 9. PLACES TO GO

I just got this new one for Christmas and it's so pretty, it basically inspired me to redo my entire tablescape. Go figure. When shopping for new books I definitely recommend springing for the hardback versions. They can be a little pricier, but they will last longer and remain structured over time. A lot of them even have fun prints hidden underneath their jackets! Bonus. 

GIFT GUIDE 2: HOME(BODY).

home gifts

FOR THE HOME: 1. INITIAL PILLOW 2. WOODEN STAR 3. CANDLE 4. FAUX FUR THROW 5. POUF 6. 'LOVE' BANNER  

FOR YOUR BOD: 1. FAUX FUR COAT 2. EARRING SET 3. TASSEL NECKLACE 4. POM POM BEANIE 5. SWEATER 6. RAIN BOOTIES

More of my top gift picks coming in hot tonight! Almost all of these things are on my personal wishlist, aside from the ones I already have. Ahem.

This Nest candle is my go-to in holiday hostess gifting. It smells like a real Christmas tree and I have been known to burn through multiples in just one season. Makes my little apartment feel so cozy. So does the Comcast Yule Log channel, which I currently have crackling in the background.

Now, if someone could just make sure that sweater ends up under my tree alongside one (er..two?) of those initial pillows, everything will be fine. Well, now I want wine.

RECIPE: A COZY HOME UPDATE.

This is a very VERY good time of year for dressing yourself, but it's equally as good for dressing up your space. As you guys know, I have zero self-control when it comes to decorating, shopping for decor, looking at decor, touching decor, thinking about decor. There is not one free inch of space in my apartment, so now I have taken to decorating under things. You guys, UNDER things. This is very bad.

There are a ton of super easy ways to change things up without buying any new major furniture. Have you guys seen the new West Elm catalog? Throw game is strongggg. I chose one of my faves and put together this little fallish update for you and your square footage.

cozy home decor

'LADIES' PRINT / NICKI MINAJ PRINT / WEEKND PRINT / GOLD CANDLE / MARBLE CANDLE / MATCHES / FEATHER PEN / GLOBE / THROW / ANTLER / WOOD COASTERS / SIDE TABLE / TRAY / BASKET

Yesterday I found some extra frames under my bed (???) and framed some old cards I had been saving for legit years. Clearly I have a very hard time letting go. Can you imagine how bad this is gonna get for me when I actually have more than 1 bedroom to address? I am losing sleep over it already. Thanks for putting up with me.

[WATER]COLOR ME BAD.

Major apologies for my absence, GILTIES! I spent the weekend in Maryland marrying off one of my very best friends in the world to the kindest-hearted groom I could have ever handpicked for her. The wedding itself was absolutely magical, the weather was perfect and we danced our feet off for the rest of the night while sipping champagne. What more could a girl want? #williamandmolly

One of the best parts of the weekend for me was watching Molly open a water-color painting that we (my group of best friends from college..aka 'fivish') had commissioned for her of one of their engagement photos. The extremely talented Rebecca Hinson is the beauty behind the paint brush. The fact that she went to College of Charleston with us was just an extra special touch. You can find her work at rebeccahinson.com and on Instagram at @rebeccahinson. Right about now I am kicking myself for not snapping a pic of Molly unwrapping it, but here is a glimpse of our piece:

and THIS was the original photo...

11391151_10100580030720763_6694754129184367325_n.jpg

Isn't that amazing!? I have to admit, we owe this entire idea to Amanda. Giving credit where credit is due. Congrats again to the brand new William & Molly DUFFY!

GOT A BIG PURSE WITH A PURSE IN IT.

What a productive little Monday, here at GILTY HQ. I slept in (praises!), gymmed it up, had a grand slam at Arden's Garden and followed it up with my fave spinach smoothie + banana. "She really has her life together!" one might think, but the reality is I ordered $37 worth of chinese food last night for myself and then drank wine while watching Intervention. Everything in moderation guys, it's fine.

I snuck out of ATL for one night this weekend to visit my friend Elisabeth's old stomping grounds in Athens, GA. Packing lightly is not my forte, so naturally I brought 5 pairs of shoes and bags full of other smaller bags. My little flat leopard is an easy new favorite! I found this Dana Gibson beaut while bopping around Buckhead antiquing with my mom. I beelined for it, because I cannot say no to a pouchlet OR a leopard of any kind. 

Dana Gibson Leopard Pouch

WEEK IN REVIEW: EIGHT GREATS.

We just had a majorly downpourish summery thunderstorm. Isn't that the best!? While it was all boom boom clap outside my window, I pulled together a little week in review for you to feast on.

eight greats

1. SUNNIES / 2. YSL EYELINER (CHEAPIE VERSION HERE!) / 3. LINER BRUSH / 4. SWEATER  /  5. FUR JACKET / 6. GLADIATORS / 7. GIGI RUG / 8. NYX BUTTER GLOSS

1. Express is ON POINT this year with their sunglasses. I've bought two pairs (including this one) in the past three weeks.

2. Ashley convinced me to try this magical little glory-pot last time she was in town. Long story short, I love it, especially the longer-wear it gives my water line on the bottom. The Loreal brand is just as good if you want to test-drive it first!

3. I prefer an angled brush like this one, but any liner brush will do. Hint: choose a finer tip to leave less room for error/panda-eye.

4 & 5. Sooo, my friends and I are planning a wine-tasting tour in October, which naturally led to me shopping for the occasion. This sweater and this fur jacket are both UNDER TWENTY DOLLARS. weeee! Bring it on, Fall.

6. I have worn my tan Sam Edelman gladiators so much this year,  these black beauties are absolutely going to be one of my last summer buys. 

7. I have mentally redecorated my entire living room around this girly rug. Get on my floor, Gigi.

8. These drugstore glosses rival my beloved NARS collection. I scooped up Creme Brulee this week and it smells as good as it looks.

We made it GILTIES, Friday is upon us. Let's celebrate with some Thursday bevs, shall we?

VIEWING PARTY ESSENTIALS: OSCARS 2015.

Happy Oscar Sunday! {AND #NationalMargaritaDay, whatever you prefer} Whether you are gathered with a group of your bests, face first in a bowl of queso, or flying solo on the couch, these are my picks for viewing party must-haves. Get comfy:
oscars viewing party
1. MUG / 2. COASTERS / 3. CANDLE / 4. SLEEP SHIRT / 5. HEADBAND / 6. PILLOW
7. THROW / 8. FLUTES / 9. SWEATPANTS / 10. iPHONE CASE / 11. SOCKS

The only things I searched for and couldn't find to add to this montage were Leo-themed socks. You heard me. #TeamDicaprio for life. Rudest. Award show. EVER. #MyHeartWillGoOn, NO THANKS to The Academy.
signature

RECIPE: FOR A STYLISH HOME.

So this morning over my coffee I was perusing Domaine, as I do so many mornings, and I came across this amazing list of things that stylish people have in their homes. Naturally, I panicked at first and thought "wait...AM I A STYLISH PERSON?!," but then, I clicked through, calmed down and realized my priorities were that of a spastic lunatic. Let's break down my top four:

1. DECOR WITH DETAILS: Swap out the hardware on your dresser drawers to make them more unique.
2. A STYLED VIGNETTE: Use photos & pieces you have gathered over time to make this a mini representation of you.

 3. ANIMAL PRINT: Needs no explanation, but I can't get enough of it in pillow form. Or rug. Or wallpaper. Send help.

4. A LUXURIOUS THROW: Probably the easiest in the bunch, but also one of my favorites…especially when it is 24 degrees, ATLANTA. #woof
throw blankets

Why did I end with blankets? BECAUSE THAT IS WHERE I AM HEADED RIGHT NOW. Blanket, couch, cat. I am sorry for shouting. Did I mention that it's really really cold? More wine please. <peace sign emoji>
signature

RECIPE: GALLERY WALL.

I got a few great prints for Christmas and have been trying to get motivated to rearrange my gallery wall above my couch ever since. I have never been totally happy with it, because I just sort of eye-balled it and threw the pictures up there, but here is how it has looked up until now:
I'll post an after picture once I get it all together, but for now, here are a few pinspirational pictures that I am loving.
All images from Pinterest
 I painted two pieces of my own that I can't wait to incorporate, but here are a few of my favorite affordable pieces out there right now from local beaut, Waiting on Martha:
waiting on martha
1. CHANEL 2. LEOPARD 3. PALM 4. PINEAPPLE
signature

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS.

I absolutely LOVE my cozy little apartment this time of year. The tree makes it so happy and bright, and even though it's fake, my 76 candles make it smell like a real tree. #thestruggle There are so many ways to cozy-up your own space this season. Here is my own tiny living room + Baby Coco Chanel on her throne:
COFFEE TABLE(Target, similar) / POUF / RUG / SOFA / LEOPARD PILLOWS(Etsy)
FAUX SHEEPSKINS / GRAY PILLOWS (Etsy)

Here are a few of my favorites from Pinterest, where else?
All photos from Pinterest
Tomorrow I am waking up super early to shoot a few new looks to share, so you are welcome in advance. Just kidding, that's my favorite part too. Listen, I gotta run. I have a lot of True Tori to catch up on and I really need to give her my full attention. Did I ever tell you guys I met her once in Vegas and took the most HEINOUS photo of my entire life? I've actually never fully gotten over it. True story, True Tori.

signature

GLAM LIVING ROOM DESIGN WITH MODANI.

When I was challenged to design a living room based on my own personal style, I couldn't say yes fast enough, and I knew Modani modern furniture would be the first place I would start. If there is one thing that rivals my love of clothes, it's my love of home decor. I knew I wanted to make my space a girly, glamorous getaway that would look and feel inviting, but still remain functional. Modani has an amazing way of making gorgeous furniture with clean, contemporary lines that still feel warm and comfortable. Lemme show ya.
modani glam living room
I chose the ridiculously sexy Savina Lounge Chairs as my focal point, flanked them with some amazing accent tables and grounded the room with the cowhide zebra rug. Um, how amazing is that wall paper?! I also threw in some champs & flowers, because let's face it, those are around enough to be considered decor in my world. If you are looking to design a room of your own, check out the virtual tour option offered through the Modani modern furniture store closest to you! I have already decorated every square inch of my apartment and I still have the urge for more. Ugh, does anyone have a house that I can just have?

signature

OUT OF MY MIND FOR SKULLS.

It's getting eerily close to Halloween (yay!) and that means it's time to break out one of my very favorites...the skull print. I have to admit, I love a good skull year round, but this is the time of year when it makes the most sense and doesn't make people think I am some kind of blonde goth. What? That's a real issue I face.

Anyway, I love skulls. I want to wear them. I want to decorate with them. I want them in all shapes and sizes and I want them now. ZGALLERIE understands this & so does Alexander McQueen. Unfortunately, I can't afford the latter (YET), so for now, I'm sticking to these headcases:

skulls, decor, alexander mcqueen, zgallerie, halloween

skull, scarf, halloween
Doing Fallish things this weekend with Brandi.
SKULL SCARF (similar)
I got this scarf about a year ago at Target. Can you even deal with that information!? I have an amazing skull top I will be posting a little later, so don't forget to check back. Halloween chic, ghouls. I can't get enough of it!
signature

FALL IN LOVE AT HOME.

Happy Sunday! Are we all very excited about the work week ahead!? No. No we are not. Sundays are for cuddling. Cuddling and mimosas. When I think of Sundays in the fall, I think of furry blankets, football snoozes in cozy PJs & spicy scented candles. Just like your closet, your home should change with the seasons. There are some super easy (and affordable) ways to take your living space from summer to fall with very little effort. Here are a few of my favorite picks from Target and Crate & Barrel:

fall, home, home decor, design, target, crate & barrel

Please pardon this brief Sunday interruption. Back to your regularly scheduled programming.

signature

SOMEDAY MY PRINTS WILL COME.

Can we talk about my Etsy obsession? I can't get enough. Chances are, if you can dream up something, someone on there has probably made it and will sell it to you for $15. I kid you not. One of my favorite things to buy from Etsy is art prints. Here are a few from my most current wishlist:
prints.
All Images from Etsy

How good would these look in a home office OR on a bar cart?! It's too good. I'm gonna need a few more rooms.
signature

IT'S 5 O'CLOCK SOMEWHERE.

The bar cart is by far one of my favorite styling essentials for any home, big or small. Basically, it gives me an excuse to use one of my favorite things ever: trays. <squeal>

In my decor-crazed opinion, building your bar cart can be just as much fun as using it & this list from Matchbook Magazine is the perfect place to start:
Print your own here!

Feeling overwhelmed? Pour a drink. My recipe for a perfectly styled bar goes a little something like this:
bar party

World Market Glass / Restoration Hardware Bar Set / Marquis by Waterford Wine Cooler / Kelly Wearstler Cocktail Napkin / Wooden Bar Cart / Bar Tool / Agate Coaster / C.Wonder Highball Glass / C.Wonder Bar Tool / C.Wonder Wine Stopper / CB2 Kitchen / Python Tray / Urbancase Liquor Cabinet

Top it off & pull everything together with a fun print or small gallery wall. All of these are from MADE BY GIRL and I die over all of her stuff on the reg. I have the vertical LOVE print on the bottom.

MADE BY GIRL
Are you inspired yet, because all this talk has made me want to shop & create a brand new watering hole like NOW. I am all out of corners (literally) to fill at my place, so you know what that means...off to the boyfriend's! Cheers to Friday.

signature

SNAKE IN THE GRASS.

Ok, so I lied when I said I didn't buy anything at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale…but the one item I did bring home was not actually on sale (go figure), so it was not really a REAL lie. It was only ly-ish. Forgive me? You will in time. This beaut below came home with me. It was really beyond my control.

BONUS: long enough for heels!
Super flattering sweetheart neckline.
Love the colors in this python print.
My closet floor. Probably my favorite DIY ever.
I seriously can't wait to wear this flowy little number to sip wine in the French countryside. Did I mention there is no wine on this 21 Day Fix? I'll ask you again, #sendhelp. 

P. to tha S. A few people have been asking for more details on this little closet safari DIY. It was one of those moments that was accidentally genius, but super easy. 

Basically, I bought this rug online (I think from Overstock?), but when it came in, it was WAY too aggressive for my living room and it was final sale. After a lot of pouting, I decided to try cutting it to fit my closet. I told you...decor crazed. Maybe I should have prefaced this with: "I was still single."

I measured the inside of my closet, marked the rug and then cut it using carpet shears I bought at Lowe's. Finally, I used carpet seam glue on the edges to keep it from fraying and voila! Leopard lovin' heaven. 

Here is a collage of the whole adorable process:
  
signature

SEEING SPOTS.

Listen, my love affair with leopard is no secret. It really isn't getting any better, if anything, it's actually getting worse. Lucky for me, it's 2014 and we have pretty much all banded together and agreed that it IS indeed a neutral. It seems like every time I decide I probably have enough spotted goods to last me a very fashionable lifetime, someone comes out with something new and the addiction starts all over again.

You know the stages: Shock (you cannot believe something so gorgeous exists). Confusion (why don't you own this item yet?). Lust (you must have it and will maul anyone that tries to get in your way). Rage (what do you mean it is SOLD OUT?!). Realization & acceptance...just kidding, you then frantically scour the internet for hours, find it on eBay and promise away your first-born. You aren't a quitter, for goodness sake.

Here is my latest leop-y lust list. Can you hear my heartbeat? Because these items seriously make me feel like I can taste colors. #sendhelp


signature

LET'S SLEEP IN.

I had the best time with my family at the lake, but am so happy to be back home tonight in the A with my babies, both fur & human. There is definitely something to be said about getting back to your routine. Driving home after spending all day in the sun had me dreaming of my bed, which naturally led to me dreaming of upgrading it. Here's a little pinspiration for your very own glam boudoir.


 


I have always been in love with these Jonathan Adler pillows
Kourtney Kardashian's Bedroom
All images from Pinterest
With rooms like these, you may not ever want to close your eyes. Sweet dreams, babies.

signature