Selective Lifestyle Trends
To anyone studying or working in home decor, learning about trends in interior decorating is one of the most exciting parts of life. And it should be, aside from work, the home is where we spend the bulk of our time, and like clothing it needs to be a reflection of us. Style Bust searches the web for the latest and greatest trends for the home; our hope is that you can use some of our findings in the environment you’ve created at home!
Chronicle Books Back To School Warehouse Sale
12 years ago
Chronicle Books is having an amazing Back To School Warehouse Sale. They will have HUNDREDS of titles for everyone, but a few extra snags for parents and children — at up to 65% off! Stock up on back to school items, gifts for yourself and friends. Choose from cookbooks, children’s books, lifestyle + home, arts + crafts, art + design, photography, travel, pop culture, and music titles. Plus, journals, stationery, and much more!
When:
Wednesday, 8/22 from 9:00 am-7:00 pm
Thursday, 8/23 from 9:00 am-7:00 pm
Friday, 8/24 from 9:00 am-7:00 pm
Where:
Chronicle Books Corporate Headquarters
680 2nd St., b/t Brannan Street & Townsend Street
Eating In Vancouver
12 years ago
A city much like our San Francisco. Sure, it is a bit cleaner and spacious with less of nightlife than we are used to here in the city, but it sure is a melting pot of tourists, locals, and chefs who are very passionate about food. The people in Vancouver, just like in our magnificent city know just how to eat and drink, and just like us they hate to see a first time tourist like me, wander off into the menus of a potentially disappointing tourist trap. They yearn to share their secret places with us. This was made very clear to me on my food trip there, and this is why I love Vancouver, British Columbia.
Like any time that I can get out of the city and go vacation for a few days my main goal is to understand the life style and culture of my destination through it’s food. This is precisely why I set out to Vancouver with my cousin last month. Vancouver is a city known for its luscious production of local products, culinary adventures, and nearby wineries. Only having three days there, we set out on our mission to try everything we could fit in. Just like anytime I travel, I refrain from desperately searching the Internet for places to eat, for I tend to be somewhat on the skeptical side of these sites. I have always found it much more valuable and to my advantage to just go straight to the source by asking the locals, and trust me, Vancouver welcomed us with open arms. Never have I been to a place where I got to meet so many chefs in such little time, and in which I become overwhelmed with endless amounts of coasters, napkins, and business cards directing me to all of the places locals told me “I just had to try before leaving!” Of course, being there only for three days, I had to make some serious choices. So here I am! Ready to share my Vancouver foodie secrets with you in a Style Bust miniseries! Each article will feature a different venue.
Cactus Club Café
Run by first Canadian Iron Chef Rob Feenie, Cactus Club Café is the NOPA of down town Vancouver. While its architecture and dishes are both modern and elegant, its atmosphere is very inviting as the restaurant’s atmosphere is casual, fun, and loud. It is a place where industry people go for a bite and a few drinks. Being that this was a block away from my hotel it was our first stop upon arrival. I asked the bartender to order my cousin and I two of Feenie’s signature dishes that we enjoyed with two glasses of wine from local wineries. Boy was I utterly in awe with such a tasty welcome!
The Beef Carpaccio
Tenderloin with a thin peppercorn curst, a hint of grainy organic Dijon mustard, pickled shallots, fresh Parmesan all over homemade crostini, topped of with deep fried capers!
The Ravioli Prawn Trio
Cooked to perfection al dente style, this dish was covered lightly in a rich and savory butternut squash with local sautéed jumbo prawns. It was to die for! This dish was just the right combination of sweet and salty with a bold and pronounced richness, it is no wonder they only serve three of them per order.
Prospect Winery, British Columbia Sauvignon Blanc 2010- this delicate wine was dry and refreshing with a clean finish. It had hints of grassiness and tropical fruits, which paired well with the Ravioli Prawn Trio.
Cedarcreek Cabernet Merlot-2007-this oaky wine has a lingering texture with hints of vanilla and concentrated fruits. It was smooth with light hints of tannin, which went well with the Beef Carpaccio
After really enjoying our time there, we came back to The Cactus Club Cafe the next afternoon (as we had promised the bar tender) to have a few of their signature cocktails. While they where fantastic in terms of concept, they where certainly shy on the amount of liquor that we are used to here in the city. However, I was here to try one specific drink, which I was told over and over again I could not leave without trying. So what is the drink of BC that everyone is talking about? It’s called a Caesar. What I soon found to be in my opinion a much tastier version of our bloody Marry. What is the secret ingredient? Clamato Juice, a little less shyness on the horseradish, topped with the eccentric combination of fresh mozzarella cheese, borettane onion, bocconcini, and a Peruvian pepper. WOW!!! No wonder Canada has an annual festival devoted to this drink, naming it the drink of the nation. After a few of those signature drinks, we set out not only to eat more, but I made it my goal to find my favorite Caesar in Vancouver, being that they all claim to make the best.
If you liked this article please checkout my review of The Keg Steakhouse and Bar in Vancouver!
image sources: ariellafong.com, Drink-twylah.com, Ravioli-Cactusclubcafe.com, view-beautynotbull.com
Workin’ on my fitness
12 years ago
If any of you know me, you know that I’ve become an avid runner over the past year. But being the practical shopper that I am and someone who is obsessed with fashion, it took me almost the entire year to ‘buy into’ fitness apparel. I despised the look of those fancy tech shirts, the tightness of running pants, and the brightness of most workout gear and I definitely wasn’t a fan of the price tags.
In the beginning (when I was oh-so-naive), you could find me running in my old leggings (that were practically see-thru), a cotton sports bra that was at least 5 years old, t-shirts that doubled as pajamas, and a pair of running shoes that were a size too small. But thanks to longer distance running and entering multiple races – I’ve decided that if I want to look and feel legit, why not dress the part (and still look cool while doing so)!
Here are some of my favorites – runner tested and wallet approved.
1. It is very important to find yourself the perfect shoe. I learned this the hard way. I happen to LOVE Mizuno‘s (they are perfect for my long, flat feet). But everyone is different – have your gait checked and your feet measured at your local running store. Make sure to test drive your shoes – jog around the store before you commit.
2. If you’re spending any time outdoors, you need your sunscreen! I like a very lightweight sunscreen – Neutrogena makes an ultra sheer sunscreen in SPF 15 all the way to SPF 100.
3. A good pair of running leggings are a must for those colder days. I love the look of most Adidas athletic gear – it’s sleek and stylish – there’s never anything complicated about it.
4. Living in SF, a lightweight jacket is a necessity. North Face isn’t cheap, but they know what they’re doing when it comes to outerwear. The North Face Nimble jacket is perfect – thin enough to tie around your waist if you’re too hot and sweaty, but keeps you warm on those cold mornings.
5. I’ve tried wearing all sorts of shorts, from nylon to spandex. But these Soffe shorts are my absolute favorite. Lightweight cotton and the perfect length. The best part is you can usually find these shorts for under $10 and they come in a variety of colors too.
6. Need a place to store all of your crap (and important stuff too) while running. The iFitness running belt is by far the sleekest one I’ve found. It can be worn comfortably under any type of top, has easy access and doesn’t ride-up on you while running.
7. I didn’t realize how great a good running sock was until my sister bought me a pair for Christmas. The extra padding, arch support and the cut-away near the ankle, all make up a good running sock and they’re all expensive (at least $15 per pair). Asics makes a great sock with plenty of support to get you through those long workouts.
8. When it comes to bras, I’m a gal that needs some support (thanks to my mother). I’ve tried a couple different sports bras that cost between $30-$45 and they’re not my favorites. I prefer my trusty Champion sports bra, from Target. They provide all the support I need, come in all sorts of colors and cost less than $20.
9. My most recent purchase – a long, fitted tank top. I wasn’t sure that I would like something this tight, but it’s very comfortable and adds a little extra support. Adidas makes a great basic fitted tank – thin, breathable fabric and just the right length.
10. I’m a chapstick addict. But when I can’t keep reapplying, I found that using small amount of Vaseline lip therapy (with an SPF) is all the protection you need for an afternoon in the sun.
Let me know if you have any recommendations when it comes to workout gear or accessories – I’m not planning on quitting anytime soon!
Crane & Canopy: Quality Home Decor At Attractive Prices
12 years ago
San Francisco based Crane & Canopy launched earlier this week as a new online retailer in home decor.
What was the impetus?
When I purchased my first home, I wanted to decorate it with superior quality and beautiful designs at a price point that didn’t make purchasing home goods seem like an investment… I talked with many of my friends who were also decorating their homes, and almost all of them were frustrated by the same things – expensive price tags and limited selection of affordable styles. That was my ‘aha!’ moment for creating Crane & Canopy. Karin Shieh, co-founder and head of marketing at Crane & Canopy.
Shieh and partner Christopher Sun are using the “no middleman” approach to eCommerce, a trend that seems to be sweeping the retail industry. This direct-to-consumer model allows them to sell department store quality and design at attractive price points. High quality at low prices should appeal to their target market: young, urban females. I’m thinking their market is probably a lot like you and me: shoppers of West Elm, CB2, and local decor boutiques.
The company launched with their inaugural bedding collection inspired by San Francisco neighborhoods. Why bedding? After conducting research, Karin and Christopher learned that shopping for bedding is a big pain point for women. Check out some of my favorite designs:
top: The Ashbury. middle: The Sunset. bottom: The Marina blue.
Crane & Canopy Bedding Details:
- Signature two-toned duvet is an easy solution for dressing up any bed.
- Standard duvets have hidden zip closures and ties to keep the duvets in place.
- Prices start at $99 for a queen/full sized duvet cover.
- Bedding features 300+ thread-count, 100% cotton, extra long staple cotton.
- Sizes range from Full to Cal-King.
Rewards For The Financially Responsible
12 years ago
Saving is hard. Every time I catch up with friends over a $30 brunch or $10 glass of wine, we complain about our troubles saving money. For starters, we could eat & drink at cheaper establishments, but that wouldn’t be very glamorous. So we continue to splurge on the finer things in life and struggle to get our savings rate where we want it.
There is a new site called SaveUp that aims to help people who want to save money and paying down debt. After you register on SaveUp and connect your financial accounts to the site (exactly like you do on mint.com) you get rewarded for paying off debt and saving money. Yes, that’s right, you get rewarded. No gimmicks. How it works: for every dollar you save, or dollar in debt you pay off you receive a credit to use on SaveUp. These credits can be used towards giveaways like:
There is a new site called SaveUp that aims to help people who want to save money and paying down debt. After you register on SaveUp and connect your financial accounts to the site (exactly like you do on mint.com) you get rewarded for paying off debt and saving money. Yes, that’s right, you get rewarded. No gimmicks. How it works: for every dollar you save, or dollar in debt you pay off you receive a credit to use on SaveUp. These credits can be used towards giveaways like:
- Virgin America Domestic Roundtrip Flights for Two
- $5,000 Banana Republic Shopping Spree
- $5,000 Trip to NYC for Two
- $25,000 Paris Getaway for Two
- $50,000 Personal Makeover
Or the SaveUp Super Jackpot worth $2,000,000!
I joined SaveUp back in December. I haven’t won any prizes yet, but it has been nice to login regularly and see how my consolidated finances are doing. The added benefit of getting to play for prizes simply because I’ve saved some money is really cool. I enjoy getting rewarded to do the thing that all responsible adults are supposed to do, Save! Go to SaveUp.com to learn more about registration (it’s really easy to do), and check out the great prizes they offer. Bonus: Style Bust readers who register will get 200 SaveUp credits for free.
Interested in staying on top of financial news? The SaveUp Blog features weekly roundups of the best articles about finances in the news.
5 Most Fashionable Cars on the Market
12 years ago
Fashion isn’t just about the latest clothing and accessories, it’s about the full package. And part of that package includes what you drive. Cars serve as dynamic symbols of style and luxury. Cars signify our personality and style preferences.
When you think of the most fashionable cars, you probably envision the latest Aston Martin you saw on Top Gear or an Italian sports car. Below you’ll find our list of the 5 most fashionable cars. What makes these cars cool? In my opinion they exhibit sleek, contemporary design elements.
Fiat 500: This Italian mini-car proves that compact can be beautiful. It’s a sleek yet fun looking car. It is ideal for city dwelling fashionistas and has curb appeal unlike the other cars in it’s class (I’m thinking of the Mini Cooper, Bug, and Smart car). Of course, it doesn’t hurt that one of the four trims available for the car is Gucci.
Mercedes E Class Coupe: Style and comfort are strong suits of this large luxury coupe. There is really no reason not to love Mercedes, and the E class is no different. Keep in mind that Mercedes just launched its redesigned E class. You may want to hold out and see what the redesign has in store before forking over the cash for the 2012 model.
Jaguar XF: Back in the 80’s my dad built a cherry red Jaguar SS1 Saloon (from the 1930’s). I was 2 when it was completed, and it was love at first sight. Three years later my dad sold the car. I was so heartbroken, I sat on the car and cried…a lot (my parents have photos to prove it). This Jaguar was the first thing I truly loved that was taken from me. I’ve never owned a Jaguar, but I do feel a strong affiliation to them from that incident. Today I prefer the Jaguar XF sedan to sportier models.
Dodge Dart: I never imagined a day when I would say Dodge made a car that appealed to me. But here I am in 2012 raving about the Dart for all it’s stylishness. This car is dubbed as the American small car with Italian soul, and it tops my list.
Aston Martin One-77: I would be remiss to leave out my dream brand. While I love all Aston Martins, this one is my favorite. It’s regarded as the world’s only car with full carbon design. I’m not a fast driver by any means – but this particular car is engineered for maximum speed.
Popular Mechanics puts out “Top 12 Cars Worth Waiting For Lists” each year. Check out their latest here.
Doors, Doors, And More Doors
12 years ago
Over recent years outdoor living spaces have become just as important as rooms inside the house. Today modern homes are often times designed around central courtyards, patios, and pools. Homes feature beautiful french doors and glass doors that open up to outdoor living areas. In some cases glass walls fold out of the way all together, or retract into ceilings opening entire rooms to the outdoors. Second floor bedrooms, offices, and dens contain access to balconies via french doors. Additionally, screen porches and window walls are geared towards bringing the outdoors in. The idea is to have less of a hard break between indoors and outdoors. And with more energy efficient windows and doors, there’s no penalty in comfort or energy efficiency.
I am in love with this trend. I live in a high-rise, with no balcony, or access to the outdoors within my unit. I dream of the day I buy a place in the peninsula (with my husband) and have a yard to landscape and furnish! Outdoor entertaining offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for hosting parties, and dinners. It’s no surprise that as homes continue to shrink in size, outdoor living spaces continue to increase (according to a Professional Builder study). The average home blueprint goes well beyond standard outdoor features. They include outdoor kitchens, sun-rooms, fireplaces, and media rooms equipped with projector screens and surround sound.
Here are some of our favorite looks for expanding the house outwards through doors and windows.
Best shots of being outdoors and looking into the house.
Trends For the Kitchen – What’s Cookin’ For 2013
12 years ago
I haven’t bought a home, or anything bigger than an armoire, but I hear that the kitchen is often the selling point in a house. It makes sense. A lot of time is spent in the kitchen. Whether or not you’re buying a house, kitchens are the most heavily trafficked area of a house. A lot of hanging out and entertaining occurs here – so keeping the look modern is important. I’ve complied the up-and-coming kitchen design trends for 2013. These trends are perfect for bespoke cheap kitchens and kitchen remodels.
The new neutral – Designers are replacing the basics: white, cream, tan, and gray with green. You heard right, you can use green as your new neutral. Build a beautiful palette of colors around green!
Light the room – LED lighting is a real trend taking hold in kitchens across the country.
Non-traditional woods – Steer clear of cherry and maple woods. Alder, birch, oak, walnut, and bamboo are the new norms for cabinetry.
Hide it away – Integrated appliances like drawer-style fridges, and fridges, ovens, microwaves and dishwashers fronted to match the cabinetry give a clean look. We can now hide most of the ‘operations,’ and our kitchens.
Mixing it up – Designer David Bromstad says a collected, eclectic look is all the rage in design right now. Mixing kitchen finishes is a great way to get the collective look.
Nostalgia – Wall murals and prints work great as small focuses between cabinets and behind breakfast nooks.
Glass backsplashes – No seams, no grout, easy to clean—what more could you want? How about luminous, reflective colors? Back-painted glass backsplashes win on all counts.
