It's black, It's white. Yeah, Yeah, Yeah.*

I adore the updated take on this classic flatware pattern; the black and white of these utensils would provide a modern dose to any table setting.

Kikkerland's Orleans Flatware is made of polycarbonate plastic, which is durable and dishwasher-safe. These utensils are a perfect way to change up your flatware for a party. Now how to decide- black or white??

Kikkerland Orleans Flatware in black and white at Paper Source.

*For some reason, I couldn't stop singing the words to Michael Jackson's "Black or White" as I wrote this. Come on- who didn't love that one? The beat was so catchy and the world-traveling, face-morphing video seemed so cool.

Remembering

"Blue Sky" by Justin Clayton

To blog. Not to blog. That's been a question for me today. Take a day for silence? If yes, tell people I was doing so? Commemorate the day? Blog like normal?

I have debated this all day in my mind. I suppose the answer is for me to say this...

The events that took place 7 years ago changed many peoples lives that day, and in ways, has changed all of our lives since. Changed world views. Changed security measures. Changed.

On Sept. 11, I couldn't have fathomed the ways that it would change my future life. A brother who felt the calling of country before self. A friend and future husband who'd answered the same.

On that day, I would never have guessed. And today, they are both, thankfully, home safe.

While my husband and I now face a future where deployment is unlikely in our lives, there are still many of our friends, and beyond that many families, for whom deployments will remain a part of normal life.

For them and for all the lives that have changed, today, I remember.

From the Runway- Part 2

Some more looks from the Runway with these pieces providing inspiration for bridesmaids attire.

Monique Lhuillier

Almost deserving an entire post of her own...

Lela Rose

Jill Stuart

Luca Luca

Malandrino

Peter Som

Carolina Herrera

All Photos from Style.com

From the Runway

While there are so many inspiring pieces that have already come down the runways in New York this week, with no doubt many more to come, on Wedding Wednesday it seems fitting to look at things from a bridal point of view. Below are a number of shown looks that provide inspiration for the bride.

Monique Lhuillier

Dennis Basso

Carolina Herrera

Malandrino

Hanii Y


Diane von Furstenberg

All Photos from Style.com

For the Love of {Plaid}- Part 4

Part 4 (and I promise last!)- Accessories

The Scarlet Plaid Bracelet from Heritage 1981 at Forever 21 offers just the right touch of plaid for an outfit.

These Wellies from L.L. Bean feel perfect for fall activities such as apple or pumpkin picking.

Quite a different plaid shoe than above, these Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent pumps at shopbop would be a fun compliment to a party dress.

Some other adorable plaid accessories here, here, here and here

For the Love of {Plaid}- Part 3

Part 3- Shirts

I believe this shirt by Joie at Bloomingdales could absolutely take the place of the long-lamented jcrew blouse from last winter (see introduction in Part 1)

This Kimchi Blue shirt at Urban Outfitters could help transition a wardrobe into fall.


While I don't think this color would be great for me, I can't help but find myself drawn to this shirt at Newport News.

Some more fabulous plaid shirts here, here, here, here and here.

For the Love of {Plaid}- Part 2

Part 2- Jackets & Skirts

The Cleo Toggle Coat at dELiA*s looks perfect for fall.

I LOVE this jacket by Aqua at Bloomingdales

I'm digging the vintage vibe of this jacket by Isaac Mizrahi for Target


I love this high-waisted pencil skirt from Forever 21


This plaid skirt from Gap looks comfy and cute.

For the Love of {Plaid}- Part 1

Last winter, I missed out on a red plaid shirt I came to love at J.Crew, and I haven't stopped thinking about it since. While that red number slipped through my fingers, there are many plaids out there that could certainly try to take its place!

Part 1- Dresses

Kimchi Blue dress at Urban Outfitters

Black Plaid Popover Dress at Gap

DKNY dress at shopbop

Rory Beca dress at Active Endeavors

Tailored Plaid Dress by Isaac Mizrahi for Target

Patterned Bathrooms

Here is a look at bathrooms utilizing pattern as a focal statement for the space.

This bathroom, featured in the March 2006 Domino, takes quite a dramatic approach to pattern; with a chocolate brown and white color palette, however, it manages not to completely overwhelm the eye. I love how the book in this photo manages to add just a hint of bold color.

A much subtler incorporation of pattern is seen in this bathroom, featured in the June 2006 Domino. I love the calmness and serenity of this mostly white bathroom.

Here is another bold use of pattern as seen through the wallpaper lining this bathroom, featured in the April 2008 Homes & Gardens. I love the way the elements in this room work together to compliment and offset each other.

Black & White

This bathroom is quaint and utterly charming. I'd love to grab a book*, light the candles on the window ledge, soak in the tub and simply unwind.

Image from housetohome

*Perhaps this one, which seems like a fitting read for such a space