Category Archives: Fashion

Wedding Inspiration

The race is on to book a venue and start planning my wedding!  Since we are aiming for this Fall, it’s definitely time to gather some inspirational photos of dresses and accessories.  Of course, my aesthetic will fare toward vintage but I do love a modern touch too.  In round one of gathering inspiration I fell in love with 77Diamonds eternity rings and the gowns from Fancy Bridal.   Suggestions are VERY welcome since the next step is purchasing some of these lovely things!

Above – Polka Dot Perfection – The skirt on the Rebecca Dress by Fancy Bridal is spectacular! The Adarna ring from 77Diamonds would make a perfect match for my estate ring. BHLDN’s polka-dot Mary Janes are a fun whimsical touch to the look.

Below – Classic Hollywood – This art deco inspired Diedre dress by Fancy Bridal is so chic; I love the way the sleeves fall.  The veil – I’m still swooning over just about everything Preston & Olivia creates.  More on that HERE.  Another lovely band of gold, rose gold to be precise, the Somoa by 77Diamonds.  Finally, a vintage clutch by Fashion Rerun.

Below – Black & White Chic – This collection is more about the concept, less about the complete look.  The Suzette dress by Fancy Bridal had me at the big bow! The black gold Vogue ring is my favorite of the 77Diamonds eternity rings.  Not sure if I could pull it off as my wedding band but definitely a first anniversary gift!  This 50′s style birdcage veil by Agnes Hart is chic perfection.  I can see it with so many types of dresses.  Last but not least, these Vera Wang heels by David’s Bridal are just too sweet to pass by!

Once again, suggestions are welcome for dresses, shoes, rings, bags or anything wedding related! Thanks in advance. 

Need some more wedding inspiration?  Look HERE.

by Mandy Posted on June 20, 2012
Posted in Fashion, Weddings | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 11 Comments

Working Weekend

Just a quick note to wish everyone a wonderful couple of days!  The photo above is the start of my Etsy shop soon to be filled with vintage goodies.  I will keep you up to date on the progress.  It is something I have wanted to do for a long time and I am excited to share it with all of you!

Also, I will be covering the New York Shecky’s Girls Night Out tomorrow as their guest blogger, so it’ll be a working weekend!   If you haven’t heard of their events, check out Shecky’s HERE - they host events all over the country.  I can’t think of a better way to spend my Saturday than shopping with a cocktail in hand.  Yes, please.

by Mandy Posted on June 8, 2012
Posted in Fashion, Vintage | Tagged , , , , , , , | 7 Comments

Calinana Giveaway

I am so pleased to announce my first blog giveaway with Calinana.  This unique line of jewelry is handcrafted in Los Angeles uses fine metals with a vibrant array of Swarovski crystals, semi-precious stones, pearls and charms.  Each piece is truly one of a kind.  One winner will receive a hand picked crochet beaded wrap bracelet similar to those pictured above and below.  The exact color and style to be chosen by sponsor.

To enter simply LIKE us on facebook and leave a comment BELOW that you’ve done so with either an email or link to your blog (so we an contact you).  (1) Winner will be chosen at random on June 1, 2012 and will be contacted no later than 72 hours later.

Ready.  Set.  GO!

Like Calinana HERE     &    Like Little Maison HERE  

Need a little more inspiration to enter?  Here are some photos of me rocking my very own Calinana bracelet.  It sparkles, what’s not to love?!

Giveaways are open to legal residents of the United States only.  This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook or Twitter. We hereby release Facebook and Twitter of any liability. Winner will be contacted up to 72 hours after the giveaway ends.  At the commencement of the giveaway, (1) winner will be selected at random from all eligible entries. Entrants and winner agree that the Giveaway Entities shall not be liable for injury, loss or damage of any kind resulting from participating in this Giveaway or from the acceptance or use of any prize awarded, including any future use of any winning entries. Sponsor reserves the right (but is not obligated) to verify eligibility qualifications of any winner.
by Mandy Posted on May 18, 2012
Posted in Fashion, Giveaway | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | 12 Comments

Inspiring Designer: Pop Soisangwan

When I first started Little Maison, I connected with designer Pop Soisangwan on facebook.  I was immediately drawn to her crisp fabrics and chic silhouettes.  I was thrilled when Pop agreed to a Q&A and couldn’t wait to share some of her designs.  This luxury label caters to those who truly appreciate made-to-order pieces and one of a kind hand painted silk scarves.  Pop Soisangwan is definitely one to watch!

To celebrate her recent website launch, Pop is offering a 5% Discount on any purchases made at her shop with discount code:  FW2012

WEBSITE // FACEBOOK

Name: Pop Soisangwan
Hometown: Chiang Mai, Thailand
Current City of Residence: Ashland, Ohio
Occupation: Designer and founder of Pop Soisangwan, LLC

Tell us about yourself and where you draw inspiration from.

My inspiration comes from my local region in northern Thailand called Lanna, and I add a modern twist to classic Lanna style. However, my collection is more “East meets West” than an ethnic take on Thai fashion. For example, this Fall/Winter 2012-13 collection was inspired by antique flowery imagery often seen in the Western paintings, together Lanna silhouette. After finishing a degree in Fashion Merchandising, I decided to do my own thing which is create my own brand.

What piece in your line is your favorite why?

My favorite piece is the Leg-of-mutton dress in black (above) because of the sewing technique. Actually the material is plain silk organza, but the ‘uneven little knife pleats’ make it very elegant. Another detail that makes it stand out for me is the sleeves, which are inspired by the 1890′s Gibson Girl, but the neckline and silhouette are classic.

What are your future plans for the label?

I want to continue to develop the brand’s recognition.

Looking forward, what trends are you anticipating for Fall 2012?

-Bold/saturated colors such as gold an blue
-Homely/antique prints
-Transparent fabric such as silk organza
-Luxurious fabrics such as silk and velvet

Finally, I asked Pop to share her favorite spot in her Little Maison.  I love this little spot below!

This is an antique table where I like to work. I spend time there reading because it is by the window. It’s old but I searched several antique stores in Amish Country for it and the chairs. They’ve been repainted with new fabric to match.

Don’t forget to check take advantage of the  5% Discount on any purchases made at her shop with discount code:  FW2012

WEBSITE // FACEBOOK

by Mandy Posted on May 16, 2012
Posted in Fashion | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Sunday Shopping

I wrote a guest post a few weeks back for Running in Stilettos and wanted to share it!  I hope it inspires some Sunday evening online shopping; one of my favorite things.  Enjoy the last few hours of the weekend!

(1) The sheer blouse is a versatile ‘must have’ that will bring you from the office to cocktails with friends.  Modcloth has a large selection including this pink beauty HERE

(2) Python is my new favorite.  Join the fun with a tangerine python clutch by Camille Zarsky.  Pantone would be pleased since it’s their color of the year!  Check out the bag HERE

(3) I love anything with a retro vibe and these saddle shoes by G. H. Bass & Co. are no exception!  Their Spring line by Rachel Antonoff is fabulous and fun.  Take a look HERE

(4) I wrote a post a while back about Petite Pendants – I am completely obsessed!  These lovely little ones are from my favorite Etsy shop, Lemon Sweet Jewelry.  Grab one HERE

(5) Everyone is digging pleated skirts but I am particularly drawn to the pleated skirts with a polka dot print!  This skirt by Kate Spade is just darling.  Grab one HERE

by Mandy Posted on May 6, 2012
Posted in Fashion | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

Inside Generation Style

As I mentioned on Monday I had the pleasure of attending IFB‘s Inside Generation Style Fashion Show last week which was co-produced by Intel.  Fifteen stylish bloggers hit the runway in looks by Kamali Kulture and Orla Kiely, showed off sassy accessories by BaubleBar and stepped in time to the fabulous French tunes in shoes by JustFabulous.

It was a fun night out with my friend Jenn from Stitched Tailors and we were so happy to cheer on our friend Christine from NYCPretty (directly below)!  In the second part of the show Christine was brave enough to model a beautiful one piece Orla Kiely bathing suit and looked amazing!   Note to self, I need to start following her workout regime.

Be sure to check out the full list and links of bloggers at the end of the post.  It’s on my personal weekend to do list!

Be sure to check out some of the lovely bloggers online! 

Don’t forget to check out the fashionable audience HERE!

by Mandy Posted on April 18, 2012
Posted in Event, Fashion, Photography | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 6 Comments

Blogger Fashion with IFB

Last week I had the pleasure of attending my first IFB fashion show!  While Little Maison is not a true blue fashion blog, I do display my badge proudly and feature my favorite fashion picks from time to time.

Co-hosted by the Independent Fashion Bloggers (IFB) and Intel, the fashion show featured 15 blogger models; one of which was my friend Christine of NYCPretty.   I will post more of the runway show soon, but first wanted to share my favorite fashion from the audience packed with fellow bloggers.  Have a fashionable day!

by Mandy Posted on April 16, 2012
Posted in Event, Fashion, Photography | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 9 Comments

Pink Boudoir

Today I am feeling a bit girly!  I found some outstanding Etsy items that would make for a perfect pink boudoir.  If only I could get George (my boyfriend) to fall in love with pink.  A girl can dream, right?  

Click on the shop name to see more about each lovely product.  Shop a little, you deserve it!

Above:  1943 stand up mirror at The Vintage Tree House ($59), Pale pink 1950′s pumps at Ginger Root Vintage ($45) and the pale pink rotary phone at Free Range Goat ($29)

Below: Decorative tin by Rebekah Makes ($20), Lace Slip in pink at In With The Old ($18) and Vintage floral oil painting on canvas at Harrietts Hallway ($25)

by Mandy Posted on April 6, 2012
Posted in Etsy Find, Fashion, Home Decor, Home Design, Vintage | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 9 Comments

Blog Artistique: JoliCassoulet

"Loves me, loves me not, loves me, loves me not… Loves me !
I knew it anyways."

If you are looking for a witty french blog infused with fashion and art, look no further than JoliCassoulet.

The lovely Laure and Claire teamed up to share their creations weekly on JoliCassoulet, which quite honestly, makes me smile.  Their aesthetic for fashion is superb and showcased regularly with their collage illustrations.   The witty French quotes are translated into English but the French handwriting makes each piece even more chic.  J’adore JoliCassoulet!

Names: Laure and Claire
Occupation: Sorbonne University Students
Hometown & Current City of Residence:  Paris, France

- Darling, what are you thinking about?
-Peace on earth…

How would you describe your work?     Illustrations of elegant, slightly brainless and extremely frivolous girls.  JoliCassoulet captures their profound and philosophical discussions on manicures, fashion trends and men.  Because whether we like to admit it or not, we’ve all shared their thoughts at one point or another!

We try to render their Parisian spirit with a touch of humor, class and eroticism.

These are not meant to be taken too seriously of course, just to enlighten your day.  All we need to do this are pens that we both use in different ways:  Laure writes, Claire draws, and here comes JoliCassoulet!

"Do you think it’s a sign God might be testing me? He’s small, unattractive and completely broke…and yet I’m falling for him."

What is your favorite place in Paris?:   Saint-Germain-des-Près.  Sipping red wine at “La Palette“.

Name your top three current obsessions:

  1. Mixing prints.  New trend this summer that we find very inspiring.
  1. LEBANON:  Love everything about the country: the amazing landscapes and historical sites, the hybrid and chaotic atmosphere in Beirut, the nightlife at Skybar and B018.
  1. Don Draper:  Do we need to explain why … ?  We’re so excited for Season 5!
"Was he looking at my legs or my poodle? We have talked about this Kiki, I love you but you are not allowed to outshine me."

We asked Claire from JoliCassolet- What is your favorite spot in your Little Maison:  My wardrobe.  But recently it has become Patrick’s favorite spot.  We share a common interest for fashion – he is the brains behind each outfit I put together.

Check out how cozy Patrick looks below and don’t forget to stop by the blog HERE and LIKE JoliCassoulet HERE on facebook.

All Artwork © 2012 JoliCassoulet

by Mandy Posted on April 4, 2012
Posted in Art, Fashion, French Things | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 8 Comments

Pretty Little Wedding Things

Every day last week I had something wedding related to attend to!  As some of you may know, I got engaged a few weeks back and in the midst of venue research, my best friend and I attended the New York Weddings Event for inspiration.  The goodie bag alone was worth the trip but I knew I had to share some of the pretty little things from the show too!

Above, the bride & groom birdies is from my favorite booth, BHLDN.  This vintage inspired company’s overall aesthetic is so on point for me, I fell in love with everything!  The photo collage below is also from their booth – the shoe on the jadeite plate is a perfect vintage chic display.  Be sure look HERE for even more lovely things by BHLDN.

One of the most talked about booths of the show was Confetti System.  This unique paper decor element would add life and color to any event.  They had their work displayed in the entrance way, which made for a spectacular first impression.  Check out a few photos below and be sure to look at their website HERE.   I am fond of their Crystal Pinata (featured below in silver) that is filled with sparkling confetti.

One of the main sponsors (with the largest square footage) was Ann Taylor Weddings & Events.  The photo on left below shows off some of their glitzy accessories and to the right is a display by The Works Catering.  They work at many venues in NYC but mostly their own, Housing Works Bookstore in Soho.  I love the fact that they are a non-profit benefiting those who have and are affected by HIV/AIDS.

What wedding event would be complete without flowers and dresses!  The floral event sponsor, MaganaFloral Design decked out the space with pretty displays like the one below.  Two of my favorite dresses on the floor were by The White Gown (left) and the infamous, Kleinfeld Bridal (right).  Although I haven’t even begun to think about the style of the dress I’d like, they were too pretty not to be showcased.

As I mentioned last week, I love proper millinery designs and Suzanne Couture Millinery did not disappoint (below left).  The ladies at their booth were so warm and welcoming, I will definitely check out their shop on the Upper East Side.

There were plenty of sweet treats to be had but the cutest and tastiest samples were from Cake Alchemy. My friend Lisa highly recommends their red velvet!  Of course, we washed it down with a much needed glass of champagne at the bar.  We admired the chandelier by Taylor Creative for a few moments before starting a second lap around the event.

Need even more Wedding inspiration? 

Check out my past posts HERE and HERE.

by Mandy Posted on April 2, 2012
Posted in Event, Fashion, Weddings | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 12 Comments

Traveling Blues

I wrote  a guest blog post today for the lovely online boutique, Frock Stock!

In celebration, they are offering my readers a 15% discount until March 31, 2012.  Stop in their shop HERE and use code LILMAISN to get the discount. Enjoy my guest post below and happy shopping!

Whenever I return home from a vacation I get the traveling blues; happy to have gone away, but sad that it’s over!  I reminisce fondly of blue skies and fresh air to keep the feeling of vacation alive.

This past September my boyfriend and I set out on a mini road trip through Portland (Oregon) and Northern California.  It was a trip filled with my favorite combination of nature and city.  I captured the sights along the way and have paired them up with a few of Frock Stock’s Spring finds below.  I hope this inspires you to set out on your own adventure and keep those traveling blues away!

Featured above is the breathtaking Ocean Beach in San Francisco.  The air is so crisp, can’t you just see this polka dot scarf blowing in the breeze!

Below, we stopped in Sausalito, California to enjoy the view of San Francisco from the water’s edge.  This little sun dress is perfect for a stroll along the bay.

This photo below was taken as we rolled by on the streetcar in San Francisco.  This breezy top is ready for running errands around town.  

Below, bright doorways on the small streets of Portland Oregon were picture perfect.  I can just see this gathered skirt with flats walking through the city. (above)
Finally below, what California trip would be complete without a little wine!  The wineries in Sonoma were superb.  This peplum dress can go from day to night with ease.

Don’t forget to check out their shop HERE and use code LILMAISN to get the 15% discount up until 3/31/12

by Mandy Posted on March 28, 2012
Posted in Fashion, Photography, Travel | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

Millinery Magic

When I was ten years old my grandmother was knee deep in a bridal veil business she started from scratch.  With no formal millinery or artistic training she hand crafted bridal veils with plastic pearls, a glue gun and love.  I am not even sure she made money but she was obsessed with creating the right piece for the bride to be.

My grandmother was married at seventeen and wore a pillbox hat.  Her wedding photo hung in her house despite being remarried and decades later it hangs in my bedroom.  Thanks to my grandmother,  I equate beautiful bridal headpieces with pillbox hats.  Perhaps it’s the fact that I am newly engaged or my love for vintage inspired fashion but I am smitten with the millinery beauties by Preston & Olivia.

I am sharing a few favorites below but be sure to visit the Preston & Olivia Etsy shop HERE  and their website HERE for the full collection.  You’ll find authentic magic in their work, I promise.

Can I wear navy as a bride?  It’s too perfect not to be considered!

Don’t forget to visit the Preston & Olivia Etsy shop HERE 

and the full Preston & Olivia website HERE

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by Mandy Posted on March 26, 2012
Posted in Etsy Find, Fashion, Weddings | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 11 Comments