Today I Love:

Nica bags (discovered via the wonderful Secrets of a Butterfly blog).  Each one is beautiful and many are crafted from non-animal materials... love it!

I Voted!

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.

Did you cast your vote yet?

Quotes by Mahatma Gandhi and Margaret Mead.

Chic for Cheap: A Black + White Party in Seattle

Today's Chic for Cheap challenge came in from reader Melissa who has an upcoming soiree to attend.  Here's how she describes the look she needs:

"My mother in law is throwing a Black and White Client appreciation party (she is a real estate agent) and we're invited! Its casual to semi-formal and creativity is encouraged (even costumes)! I'm wanting something that infuses a classic with some spunk, and that I can re purpose with accessories for all of our upcoming holiday parties. Also, I need something modest, like no plunging necklines or above the knees...oh and something with sleeves please!  As for my figure, I'm nice a tall but just had a baby so I'm a little self conscious about the mid section! Any ideas? Your help would be sooo appreciated!"

Here my picks are.  I went for a black, white, and gray palette.  You will get more millage out of your clothing if you choose separates (such as a skirt and top) instead of a dress.  Even if your total look costs more this way, you will be giving yourself many more options to work with for seasons to come.

If you'd like to help Melissa out, leave a link to your look (created with Polyvore or your own editing software) here.  Don't forget to stop on over at Melissa Loves, for Melissa's ensemble.

{LINK LOVE} Houses on the Jetty by wear+thou * Inga V-Neck Cardigan at Forever 21 * Ribbon-trim Top at Newport-News * Sketchbook Roses Belle Skirt at J.Crew * Onyxstar Slingbacks by Nine West at Endless * Two-tone Bag at Charlotte Russe

Inspiration Daily: 11 .04 .08

Today's the day!!!  If you live here in the United States I hope you'll get out and vote.  I'll be taking my daughter with me this afternoon.  She is really excited to see the process in action.

Poster from AIGA

(Photo Border by wwitch22)

Inspired Artist: Miss K

Over the weekend I discovered the beautiful styling work of Miss K (also known as Chickadee).  Her pieces are soft, filled with light, and heaps of charm.

Oh... did I also happen to mention that she's 9 years old and MY daughter!!!
Yes, that's right!  These beautiful photographs were styled entirely by my beautiful daughter (all I did was snap the photo)!

A bored moment turned dazzling when I suggested that she might like to occupy herself by trying to arrange objects in our home for a photo.  I headed over to my computer to work... and imagine my surprise when a little while later she called me over to have a look at her finish set up.  We've decided to add her work to our Wren & Chickadee shop, where she will make $6 from every sale (the other $2 goes towards materials).

So far we've just added these two images to the shop, but there are more coming soon.  Chickadee's been bitten by the bug!

Thanks in advance for your sweet comments... I know they will mean the world to her!