An Eye for Design: Vintage Suitcases

 (Photo Credit: Emily Schuman)

I loved Cupcakes and Cashmere's retro-chic alternative to a bedside table yesterday so I scoured Etsy for the cutest vintage suitcases I could find. My favorites are pictured below. I think I might have a DIY project in my future!

 

 ($58)

($55)

 

($32)

($30)

($55)

Review: Caylpso St. Barth for Target

Yesterday I took a much-needed study break to check out Target's latest designer collaboration with Calypso St. Barth. I was pleasantly surprised-- the quality of this line seemed better than other recent Target/designer collaborations (cough go-international dress re-release), but I couldn't bring myself to purchase anything and ultimately walked away empty-handed.

I liked the styles of several dresses, but unfortunately the color palate of this line just wasn't flattering on my fair skin tone. Also, while I will admit that the quality of these pieces is decent (the dresses have linings, and there are intricate details and embroidery on most blouses and swimsuits), the price-point is a bit high. If I'm going to spend $40 on a dress from Target, I have to love it, and nothing in the limited selection of pieces from this clothing line at my local store fit that criteria.

 

The jewelry and home lines on the other hand, are different stories entirely. I loved the designs for home. The sea glass-inspired tumblers, metallic votive holders and ceramic elephant teapots were all gorgeous, but I  wouldn't have a place to put them, so I had to pass. I hope I don't kick myself later!

My choice to leave behind the jewelry designs is a similar story. I thought the gypsy-inspired bangles were fun and the playful mix of leather and metallics was endearing, but in the end, nothing sealed the deal. There's a chance I'll go back for one of these wrap bracelets.  They caught my attention and $20 seems like a decent price.

Overall, I thought the collection had some real potential, but nothing worked for me. Readers--have you seen the line? What do you think?

Paris versus New York

Last fall, French graphic designer Vahram Muratyan began a series of "friendly visual matches" between Paris, France and New York City. His bilingual blog, "Paris versus New York" took off, and now several of his illustrations are available for purchase!

Wouldn't these colorful comparisons look perfect framed in a kitchen or breakfast nook? 

 

Kate Spade Fever

Last week I was so excited when my friend Emily sent me this link announcing that Kate Spade, the New York designer best known for her colorful accessories, printed stationary and feminine silhouettes, is launching a new bed and bath collection this spring! The line will include the bold prints and bright colors consumers have come to expect from Kate Spade. Not sure if I'll be able to afford it, but I can't wait to see the complete line!

My Kate Spade frenzy continued when I saw that the brand uploaded images from their Spring 2011 collection onto their look book website. I love the Iris top ($245), Hand in Hand bangles ($48 each) and the Samantha bag ($575)

Readers, what do you think of Kate Spade's spring ventures? What other designers' collections are you looking forward to this spring?