Lotus & Fig: Palampour by Zara Home

pink + orange: one of the ones that got away at zara home

Of the many Zara Home items I couldn't get before they began shipping to the US, this lively palampour was one of my favorites. The lightness of the paisley allows you to see the complementing background orange so well. The pinks are searingly bright but not over used. The deeper shades of orange (sienna) and browns ground both feature colors, neutralizing their vibrancy. A perfect accent for a calming room. 

And they didn't limit this pattern just to a pillow, oh no...

Mehrab Motif: Morocco on My Mind

megan pflug's diy wall on one kings lane; photo by eric masters

For whatever reason, I have been in love with mehrab arches for several years now. There is no limit on size or detail either. They all appeal to my eye. So finding this Weekend Decorators project on One Kings Lane's blog was right up my alley! Maybe I wouldn't go so bold considering my space, but there are a few walls that are ripe for such a DIY. 

Of course, in my travels I've come across many other examples of mehrab decor lately... 

Stormborn Chic: Party Like a Khaleesi

keepin' it classy: a chic white dress and silver necklace

Even in the face of her fiercest fire-breathing dragon, or surrounded by enemies, Daenerys Targaryen has managed to keep it regal, rocking some outstanding dragon-themed jewelry. If the long wait till April is too much to bear, consider throwing a Breaker of Chains-themed soiree to ease the pain.

Retail Odyssey: Patchwork Patterns at Vivaterra

vivaterra's kantha loveseat is a real showpiece

Thankfully this foxy little number is well out of my price range, 'cause that's all that stands between me and an epic impulse buy. Obviously it's best feature is the gorgeous patchwork Indian kantha in bright hues and energetic patterns. But it's secondary asset is the shape: those slimmed English roll arms, those carved legs (with casters!) and the tufted back. It's quite a stately little piece. I'd probably like it just as much in a solid color.

But it isn't solid. Not at all...

Color Story: Mad About Amethyst

john robshaw's lodhi shower curtain

If you know like I know, the deep midwinter can be a real bummer. Short days and low daylight are as a cloud descending, plunging me into a long stretch of hibernation and neglect. Hard to get anything done when you're bundled up in bed. Not this year! I resolved to fight it, fight it, fight it! Certain colors are particularly helpful in this effort, colors like Amethyst (or Lavendar, or Orchid...).

And this season, everybody's got some...

Fuschia + Aubergine: Canvas Decor

canvas wall art from target

Emma Stone's fabulous Lanvin gown at the Golden Globes is so inspiring I've been looking all over for that color combo. Word is the colors were much richer in person than they appeared on film (this from Kelly Osborne on E!'s "Fashion Police.) I can believe it! Turns out, I didn't have to look very far for more. Not only do I have the Moroccan patterned wall-hanging above, but also the pink boxes below from IKEA. Sadly, I never got the purple ones. Kept putting it off and they were discontinued. Too bad, the pink is a searing shade, both incredibly bright and incredibly saturated. The deep dark purple was the perfect companion to ground that sophisticated pink.

Retail Odyssey: Target's New Modern Morocco

Looks like Target is ringing in the new year with one of those things it does so well: a mini collection of Moroccan-inspired home decor. The 'Modern Morocco' collection combines traditional patterns with modern color schemes for a very crisp looking line. 

Here are some of my favorite pieces:

The navy pillow seems particularly strong between the colors and the nailhead trim. Very chic and gender-neutral. The bone-colored inlay picture frames are very earthy and subdued. The pattern on that lamp shade is a personal favorite. I need a new lampshade like a I need a hole in the head, but if the embroidery was a nice brown... Poufs are always great and this on seems to be a sturdy canvas with embroidered pattern. Expect it to sell out. And really, that table is fantastic! Light profile, shapely, and a good size at 24"h x 18"w.

I might stroll over to my neighborhood store and check this line out in person.