Gallery Wall = #WatteauWall = #Pinspiration

This is Margaret and my day bed. Oh, and a Gallery Wall.

Okay, so the gallery wall is a big deal right now. But does anyone know where it comes from/why we're doing it, how to do it and how to fade into the next interior design trend?

WARNING: This is a Pinterest adventure, pardon the long-page format. I'm new. 

1) Origins: The name of this game is vertical storage. There is a famous painting by Jean-Antoine Watteau called "the Sign Maker" (rough translation) and it depicts an art store in the 1700's.  It shows hundred of paintings from floor to ceiling, moving in and out of a store. It was mere product placement. Put the painting on the wall, people will buy it. 

In homes, art was just the icing on the cake of a room, and wasn't meant to be stared at like in a gallery. This has changed. We now want to show personality through a collection of pieces. We want to show where we've been, who we've met along the way, and what inspires us. We use the gallery wall as an extension of ourselves. I use it because I need somewhere to store the art I make. (I start to look like a total narcissist, but hey, it's a free show!)  

Photo albums just sit on shelves, why not bring them to life on the wall? I know you remember the staircase collection, (The photo-documentation of your awkward years for everyone to see). That was just the beginning....

2) HOW-TO:There is a continuum of how neat you want to be vs. making wall art out of wall art. 

(These examples are mostly spatial awareness examples, they demonstrate how to arrange. I will mention color and medium along the way.) 

Considerations include: frame size/shape/color. mat color. medium of piece. color palette of piece. color palette of wall. no frame. how are you hanging? are your lines showing? Mixing and Matching is the name of my game. or no matching at all. ;)

For more resources, visit my Pinterest! ("interiors" "art" "walls" "texture collector") 

AND Some of my fave design sites are listed at the bottom of this page. 

 

a) Millitary Ranks: Every frame is exactly the same color/size. They are all lined up in perfect ranks and files. Usually the content is in the same color palette, technique and medium. Great for a photo collection or set of prints from an old book that you don't want laying around on a shelf. Clutter isn't minimalist, now is it?

This is a little less rigid, because the content has a mixed color palette!

b) The Crazy square / Trying to let loose::  The frames are all aligned around the edges, but anything can happen within those boundaries. -or- Either variation of frame size and shape, or using a plumbline or meridian. Maybe you mix photos and paintings. or photos and prints. oooooOOOooo!

Angela R's pin on Pinterest.

c) Anything Goes: This can be a variation of anything from above, or whatever strikes your fancy. This has no rules or regulations, and this arrangement is more of the art than the pieces themselves. This also works for the home office crafter, and supplies. Or the fisherman's supply shack. Times, they are a changin'! Keyword: Vertical Storage! 

d) New School Gallery wall: lean like a.... painting. This is for those of us who don't want to blemish our walls (or have to patch anything when we move out of our short lease- a must for young people). There is a whole lot of variation of media and of framing. We welcome sculpture (vases-ceramics in general, faux animal heads, and plants) and lean everything on something else. Nothing matches because it all came from goodwill. Oh, and Animal heads. Lots of low-profile 3D art here. 

It's a step up from our teenage bedroom wall with trophies, certificates, and those weird graduation leis. Could have a religious/altar-like feel. OR you need the storage space. 

(The young are so fickle)

I Love TAVI, and her BLOG, btw.

e) One night Only: Well, one piece really. This is for the true minimalist or anti-trend. This is most likely the future of art in homes. We've been here once before, but we're different now. We could call this the "I'd-rather-pay-more-for-one-really-nice-thing" sort of approach. We incorporate the color scheme from the painting into accessories in the room. We no longer use the art as the focal piece with matching furniture to hold it up. We mix and match our furniture so the WHOLE ROOM is art.

 

Neat, huh. 

Fave resources:

Design Milk

Apartment Therapy

Japanese Trash (It say's "from a man's point of view" but I love it all.)

Home Adore 

Disregarden (Special shout out to fellow design lovers!)

The Chain Game: How to Play

Hello friends! Let's continue the sparkle parade by addressing CHAIN.

Light and airy, twiggy-liner and a chain.

Which one will be the winner?

I have been feverishly searching Pinterest, Google, and Etsy for dainty chain necklaces.

My mom says, "Preppy 80's," but all I'm finding is Dynasty style giant baubles and neon (I'm working on clearing up the discrepancy between the 80's-90's right now--it's exhausting, and I'm so over decade related costume parties.... or maybe just terrible Halloween costumes from a bag).

I'm thinking more of a 70's look, but I trust the woman who lived through all of that and admits to being a "trend monster."
The seventies are totally hot right now, mostly long necklaces with big charm/baubles or as another layer. Seeing as I like to wear all my favorites at once, I'm enjoying this trend. I'll have you know I started that layering thing long, long ago. I guess one could say I helped start it, I'm a visionary, OR it's finally coming around and this is my moment to shine. LOL.

Because I can't find what I'm looking for on the internet, I decided to learn about chain and see what I already have. Below you'll find my top fave chains.

Cable chain and variations

1. Cable chain
Remember those paper chain decorations? yeah, same idea.
I enjoy this style for small charms, usually a matching metal. Depending on the weight of the chain, you can play with the size of the charm. I'm constantly mixing and matching.

Some variations include anchor, which are flat/ractangly pieces, and rolo/belcher, that are more open)

Box Chain

2. Box Chain
You see a lot of these in upscale jewelry stores, or old school jewelers who are less edgy. I think all of my Magen David necklaces as a kid have been on this type of chain. Tiffany's has a bracelet (and maybe a necklace) that people love in this design.

The necklace chain is usually a smaller scale than the bracelet style, just because there are a whole lot cooler chunky/edgy chains for that.

It's really simple for any charm, that's why I think we find it so much. Not a lot going on visually, so it's a great backdrop. Once again, consider the weight of the chain before choosing a charm.

Ball Chain, not Ball-Change

3. Ball Chain
Because I don't think any of us got enough in middle school. Once worn with dog tags, then blown up to super size for chokers, and back down to mini ball for looooonnnggg charm necklaces. I'm a fan.

I use ball chain for more casual looks. Although you can see that ranges from religious to fantasy... And back to functional. Yep, that's my dad's dog tag!

L to R: Rope, double cable, double cable.

4. Double Cable Chain
The kind you'd likely find in a new age shop. Sturdy in sterling's what I always say....
Great for large or heavy charms.

5. Rope Chain
The kind your great-grandmother wore. It's not so bad when it's dainty, and if it isn't, go retro with it!
Also great for large or heavy charms, (re purposing those hand-me-down brooches!)
 I think it's just fine with no charm--mostly because it's already so ornate.

Top to Bottom:  Chain, Rope, Rope, Filigree Link. 

Moral of the story, I have what it is that I'm looking for, but I can't find a decent styled picture on the internet.

So I took some.. tadah!

For more information on fantastic resources and actual history:

Design Thrift- Fun Mama blogger from NY who also teaches jewelry DIY's and sells her stuff! I like this write up, because it's applicable to today's trends.

Joden -This has concise descriptions dating back to the Georgian Period.

Antique Jewelry University - This has a really in-depth collection of information dating back to the roman period. (this link is specific to chain though)

Here's a great resource if you still enjoy 80's parties.

Sparkles and Metamorphic Rock

I HAVE AN ETSY!!!

I made this! Amethyst and recycled Bullet!

It took a long time-Lots of self-actualization books, audio clips, and spending money on more craft supplies (I'm a craft supply hoarder--I know it won't keep me alive for an apocalypse, but at least it'll keep me entertained...) but I finally did it! 

Dress by Becca

I styled this: leather, metal, crystal, rock.

I spent a lot of time thinking...

most of my favorite things are sparkly. 

why can't I just be an artist?

what happens if I just do what I love, will I survive?

I spend a lot of time trolling the internet for ...

the perfect ring. 

the night sky.

rocks and crystals.

I styled this:  leather, brass, bakelite, seeds, crystal, stones.

Most things I read lately say, "be what you are, there's no one like you" or "pursue your dreams, you've only got one chance."

 BUT REALLY<<<

 Chances are you're good at what you like to do, or you like it enough to keep doing it and get better at it! 

Long story short, I sell sparkles*. BAM!

You can currently purchase them on ETSY.com or at the Mtn. View General Store on Dana st. 

*sparkles can make us feel energetic, pretty, magical, potent, full of life, inquisitive, lustful, passionate, and most of all encourage us to live an adventure and go on a quest! 

Becca Every Day: Day 100 and Meet Bobbi!

In celebration of my hundredth day of investigating my style, I bring you....
Bobbi:  Yogi, Baker, Confectioner, Hiker, Life-Liver, Lover. 21.

Bobbi and I met through my mom, they had yoga teacher training together. I think they became friends because my mom knew I was moving back to LA and would need a cool friend to hike and do yoga with. Little did any of us know, we would go on one of the most exhilarating trips and conquer half dome with each other.

Bobbi is pretty much down to do or try anything. She drives demolition derby cars with her dad and sisters in Arizona, and makes the most delectable vegan chocolates. Bobbi is one of the bravest and sweetest people I've ever met. Hands down.

Because she's so brave, she volunteered to be my style experiment guinea pig! So we're going to see what Bobbi likes to wear and why.


Outfit one: Go-To Everyday Outfit

"Floral/Paisley Romper:  Bought it at Goodwill, about six months ago. 

I love Goodwill, it’s like a treasure hunt! The romper is great for lots of different occasions and even looks nice in professional settings.  It is one of those outfits that may not be the most convenient (peeing in rompers without zippers is horrible) but I always get compliments on it so I continue to wear it."

IT'S CUTE...SO I WEAR IT.

"Shoes:  Found them at one of those crazy 50% off all sale items sales at Urban Outfitters.

Ring:   My grandpa gave it to me, It was my Grandmother’s.

Mala and Om Bracelets:  My mala was strung by a friend of mine with 7 different stones representing the 7 chakras. I found my yellow miracle beads at a store in Joshua tree and my Om bracelet in a little shop in Santa Monica. I wear my bracelets daily to remind me of my journey and to help keep me grounded.

Airplane Necklace:   My sister gave it to me when I graduated from college.

Belt:  A gift from my sister and mother from Christmas a few years ago, wear it with almost everything."

Outfit Two: Comfy

"Sweat Pants: Champion Brand from target, I jump in these things as soon as I can when I get home.

Sports bra: Champion Brand from target, I love how thick these ones are. They give support without being constrictive.

Sweater: Target. Sweaters and cardigans always make me feel comfortable, It’s like being bundled up! This one is great because it’s really light so I can have that comfort without dying of heat if I want to wear it in the summer."

WOULD WEAR THIS OUT OF THE HOUSE....YES!!

OUTFIT THREE:  INTERVIEW OR DATE 

(Dressing for someone other than yourself, i.e. the control!)

"Navy collared dress with back cutouts: bought it at urban outfitters, I love how it fits me. I feel like it compliments my shape really well because I'm curvy and it accentuates my waste. Without a sweater it has cutouts in the back which makes it a cute summer dress and with a cardigan it instantly becomes more professional because of the collar and solid color. 

The shoes are some of my absolute favorites, they're modeled to be a throwback to women's work shoes from the twenties that were fashionable in the front with a thicker heal and more support so that you can stand on them for long periods of time. I always get compliments on them and they're a great way to catch attention because they are unique but not distracting, I want someone to interview me, not my shoes. Overall this outfit makes me feel comfortable and professional, without being too casual or too stuffy."

OUTFIT FOUR:  YOUR FAVORITE THINGS

L: Collaborative "Faves" outift

R: All the faves, all together. (squeeeeeeeILOVEIT)

"Burgundy pants:  awesome find from Marshall's. I love the cut, fit and material! 

Docs: I'm a huge fan of docs. I have about five pairs. Most of which were my sister's in highschool so they are super broken in and comfy. I'm a big boots with dresses girl too, and I love pairing docs with a cute dress. 

Blue velvet flats with gold studs: found them at cross roads on a random Sunday shopping with Becca and her mama after yoga.

These are some of the only flats I can actually wear because my feet have a strange shape and flats are normally painful, plus they're cute and remind me of Elton John.  

BDG shorts: urban outfitters. I love that they are not too short and not too long. I also really love the detailing on the sides.

Gold elephant buckle belt: Lucky. I've always had a connection with elephants for many reasons. One of my bucket list items is to give an elephant a bath. 

Green shirt: It has a really cool print on it and it's loose and flowy. I've been more into loosely cut tops lately.

Space mountain shirt: I love Disneyland. A lot. Especially throwback Disney. I found this shirt at the park and hated the boxy cut of it but loved the print so I just cut off the sleeves and I wear it with a cute bandeau or to yoga class and it's perfect! 

Flower necklace: I actually made this necklace in highschool when I went through a jewelry making phase. I love it because it reminds me of my own capabilities and creativity. It's a little token of where I've been and what I'm capable of.

Skull clock necklace: Got it from a street vendor when I was living in New York. I love clocks, I have multiple clocks in my apartment and lots of clock necklaces. I also really love skulls and skull jewelry so this was an awesome find!"

Bobbi teaches yoga at One Down Dog in Silverlake, CA and Yoga and movement to kids at Fusion Academy in Los Angeles, CA. She has her own blog called Spoonfuls of Bobbi !!

The First 30 Days: Face to Face with Myself

The WHAT:

Take a picture every day and post it all over the internet to desensitize myself from having to put my best face on something that isn't real, or authentic. 

The WHY:

When I began this project, all I wanted was to become more comfortable with myself--just as I am.

It was bothersome to me to see people on facebook in their cute outfits, with their best hair, and clear faces--which weren't their real faces--I am totally guilty of this.

This way, I learn to celebrate myself in all of my outfits, feelings, moods, bad hair days (rare, because I LOVE my hair unconditionally) and share this with the world.

The HOW:
Take no more than 3 photos to choose from, not spruce my surroundings or myself up too much, and take a good, fast, clear picture. If the lighting wasn't optimal, fix it with a filter. The idea was to do this fast enough, that I wouldn't have time to mull over what I looked like.

What happened?
side note: Even though this was supposed to be my own self-love journey, it was totally cool to see how people responded.

1) People told me how much they love my smile, and old friends told me thats what they remember the most about me.  Where had my smile gone, since then? Why don't I feel the need to shine light onto everything I see, everyone I meet?

2) People thought I was on a weight loss quest.  Thanks for all the support friends! But it turns out it's just hard showing your real self in a place where everyone is airbrushed, photoshopped, and posed into place! I heart you all!
Then THIS happened:

I started talking myself out of a lot of self hate by turning those feelings around, and trying to be an inspiration to others. THIS WAS SO AMAZING!!  I had no idea that I would want to share inspirational thoughts and feelings along with the photos, but that happened, and has become much bigger to me than what the photos themselves represent.

Okay, what you've all been waiting for.

The First 30.

Wear the clothing, don't let it wear you!

I love clothing. Fact.
I love fabric and color. Fact.
I don't love feeling like I have to fit into a mold.

As I move through the world, trying to appreciate clothing, I also have to take into consideration that I wear things when I feel a certain way, and don't wear things when I feel like I don't fit in them. There's that mold again. When I was younger, I used to wear the weirdest things I could find to distract people from my very visible top-half buoyancy.

 My excuse for my loud outfits was,

 "I'm just wearing all of my favorite things at once!"

I'd always be known as the friend that can pull off any outfit, which was pretty cool. It wasn't that I had the confidence to wear IT, it was that my confidence was derived from wearing a mask of clothing. I felt like I was in costume and could escape from my insecurities for a day, or even just a moment.

Phew.

SO. In an attempt to feel more comfortable in my skin, and not worry about the clothing on me, but whats inside the clothing, I am documenting my wardrobe on a day-to-day basis. I will take a picture of myself wearing whatever I put on, whether I'm a huge fan or not. This way, I won't be using digital photography to manipulate others into thinking I look fabulous all the time. I love being fabulous, but I feel like I'd rather be real these days. Maybe that will elevate my fabulous-ness in a whole new way!
 

In addition to photographing myself, I will be getting together with friends and experiment with their wardrobes and what their clothing makes them feel like.

A) Go-to favorite outfit that makes you feel like a million bucks.
B) The outfit that makes you feel super attractive, date outfit.
C) Most comfortable outfit (this one's gonna be hard, ya couch potatoes!)..(takes one to know one!)
D) All of your favorite things. All at once.

What does all of this even mean???

Let's find out why we wear what we do, and see if it makes us happy! 

What do these garments mean to us? How do they help us? How do they hinder us? What are we wearing because we have proof "works" to our advantage, and does what we want it to do?

Becca    

photo gallery UPDATE

Hello Friends,

I have updated the costume gallery!

It's short and sweet, but it works. Gallery!

If you want to see more, click here.