Slim on Inspiration

I've been perfecting my French Press techniques the past few mornings and as a result, I have consumed more caffeine than necessary. Busy days and early rises have left little time for channeling my inspiration for posts, so today, I leave you with Slim Aarons (again). Hotel Belair, circa 1991 (as if the bikini didn't give away the 90's vibe...). That pool looks like a good time.

Just What I Needed.

I woke up feeling uninspired this morning, until I went through my archives and found this photograph. Pure spunk! This woman is fierce and fabulous in Prada, captured on the street in Paris via The Sartorialist.

One to Remember

Full disclaimer: I am not someone that usually gravitates toward quotes and inspirational affirmations. Quotes are nice and all, and can serve as motivational and enriching levers, but I don't usually make a point to keep them close to me or recite them in conversation. With the unfortunate news of the ever so eloquent Maya Angelou's passing, social media was abuzz with various tributes to the prolific woman (including Tory Burch's blog, above). I must say, this particular quote is one that really resonates with me. I've found myself coming back to it as it truly does give me pause. We are in absolute control of who we let in to our lives and I continually focus on surrounding myself with those that make me feel valued, respected, inspired and thirsty for living. Life is too short otherwise, don't you think?

Office Inspiration: Grégoire's Gem

  One of the perks of now working at an interior design firm is the sheer joy of being surrounded by tangible inspiration all day long. I am deeply affected by the landscapes in which I live and work in, and my new work environment makes me truly happy. Instead of the interior rigidness of a financial institution, I am now surrounded by a flood of rich fabrics and textiles, architects drafting elaborate blueprints, a sea of French antiques, and, a library full of auction and design catalogues. Thus, I bring you my latest obsession. If I could jump in to this landscape, I would. The images come from the French design publication Côté Sud and depict the most idyllic residence on the French Riviera. The vacation home belongs to Grégoire Gardette, legendary photographer, designer, publisher and graphic designer. Now all I need is a new white bikini, my Bain de Soleil and a tall glass of Pellegrino - dreamy! In addition to salivating over the serene scenes above, be sure to view Grégoire's portfolio, here: http://gregoiregardette.com/fr-en/