Two and Twenty

Pink Friday

2012-03-16T10:00:00.000-05:00

Check out these beautiful installations by Karla Black. These are a part of a larger series, and I'm not quite sure what the medium is here, but I think it's chalk (or flour, or something equally powdery).

Have a great weekend!

Magic Eye

2012-03-15T10:00:00.000-05:00

You remember those, right? A few pages of Magic Eye and I found my eyeballs crossing of their own volition. (Now all I have to do to get the same effect if sit in front of a computer for a few hours straight. Fine detail, argh!) Anyway, these works by Robert Bruce Murray III of Sort of Natural had me staring for quite a while. If only to try to figure out what's going on. There's a story in there.

That's right

2012-03-14T15:13:00.002-05:00

It's 80 degrees in mid-March in Illinois. The birds are a-singing and everybody's playing hooky.

(original image)

SOTI

2012-03-14T10:00:00.000-05:00

...and it stands for Something On The Internet. Because that's what it is, right? Except it's so much more than that. SOTI, the brainchild of photographer and painter, Evonne Bellefleur (<--now how's that for a pretty name?), is an online store filled to the brim with gorgeous art prints for your space. Starting at just $30 a piece, you could really fill up a wall. And yes, these works are all her own creation. Do check out the blog, and follow SOTI on Pinterest. Here's a few more favorites:

Two Too Pretty

2012-03-13T10:00:00.000-05:00

Balmain Fall 2012 dress + architecture in Kloster Andechs, Oberbayern (via MisterPeter!)

Kari Herer

2012-03-12T10:00:00.000-05:00

If you frequent the design blogs, I'm sure you've happened upon the beautiful floral photography of Kari Herer. And yes, you can buy these prints and more at her Etsy shop. Wonderful way to start the week seeing as, at least over here, it's spring!!! Happy Monday.

Pink Friday

2012-03-09T10:00:00.000-06:00

*sigh* Paris Fashion Week is nearing its end. Go behind the scenes at the Oscar de la Renta Fall 2012 show over at Purse Blog, and have a fabulous weekend!

Litill Terrariums

2012-03-08T10:00:00.000-06:00

These terrariums by Litill Ltd. are so modern and charming, with the occasional blip of bright color, all housed in uniquely shaped, hand-blown glass vessels.

(images via Design Milk)

'Tis a good day for collages

2012-03-07T10:00:00.000-06:00

Like this collection by Ray Johnson found at Raven Row. Had a field day scrounging through these guys. There's seven pages worth (that's 159 collages) in just the "Collage Mailings" section alone. And if you check on the right-hand side of this page, there's like a gazillion more from other sections of his work.

Two Too Pretty

2012-03-06T10:00:00.001-06:00

Kenny Guadalajara High Waisted Baja Striped Shorts (at Free People) + Dead Kennedys at Wust Radio Hall 1985 poster re-imagined by Mike Joyce (Swissted)

(both discovered on Pinterest // here & here)

What do you want to be when you grow up?

2012-03-05T10:00:00.000-06:00

This photographic series by Parisian photographer, Malo made me smile and squee (are people still saying that?) the moment I saw it. Such a sweet concept, so simply styled, and honestly the look on this kid's face is priceless. Especially when dressed as a doctor, you can tell the mask is kinda freaking him out a bit.

(discovered here)

Pink Friday

2012-03-02T12:16:00.000-06:00

Earlier this week, I accidentally wrote 2011 on something. Can you believe it's already March of 2012? Two days ago, it was nearly 60 degrees outside. In Illinois. In March. Here's a little something pink to brighten your day (if it's at all gloomy).

Photography by Linus Lohoff via The Fox is Black. Have a great weekend!

Framed

2012-03-01T10:00:00.000-06:00

Sometimes, the frame itself is a piece of art. Luckily, the boys of Kolkoz took notice and understood. (source)

Seinfood

2012-02-29T10:00:00.000-06:00

I never followed Seinfeld, but I found these minimalist "Seinfood" posters by Rinee Shah to be pretty clever (you know me, anything with food). The series of prints is available for purchase at Pot + Pantry (and right here) until March 10th. (Discovered on Dwell)

Oh wow!

2012-02-28T10:00:00.000-06:00

Last year I blogged about Howkapow, the colorful online shop of husband-and-wife team, Cat and Rog How, showcasing the designs of independent artists. Boy have I got some catching up to do. Here are some recent faves. I especially love these shadow coasters! See all their products here.

This dog has the patience of a saint

2012-02-27T10:00:00.000-06:00

...and the balance of an Olympic gymnast. I'm talking about Maddie the Coonhound (a photography series by Theron Humphrey), and she's touring the states and standing on things like nobody's business. Buy prints of Maddie standing on things here. Happy Monday!

Pink Friday

2012-02-24T10:00:00.001-06:00

I realize it's no longer Valentine's Day, but it's never too late to make these heart milk cubes from A Subtle Revelry. The ice tray was from IKEA! Have a lovely weekend!

Facepaint

2012-02-23T10:00:00.001-06:00

This photography series by Hana Pesut was a happy little discovery today (don't you just love those?). That Aztec print is just about everywhere these days, and a little color never hurt either.

Wonder Wed

2012-02-22T11:40:00.000-06:00

I happened upon this gorgeous wedding menu yesterday on Pinterest, and just had to find the rest. Enter Wonder Wed, the wedding set branch of Studio Wonder by Vancouver-based designer, Ashley Peters. Here are some of my favorites:

Coming and going

2012-02-22T10:00:00.000-06:00

I just fell for these beautiful paintings by Jose Manuel Hortelano. Plenty more gorgeous works (including a little manscaping action?!) here.

Bittersweet

2012-02-21T10:00:00.000-06:00

I've been unconsciously and slowly been cutting down on coffee. One day I realized I don't drink it nearly as much as I used to, and I hadn't really planned on that happening. See, a couple years ago I gave up coffee for Lent. It turned me into a raging bitch within the first two days. I couldn't even taste my food. But after that first week, I had powered through, and the rest of that 40 day stint went pretty well. The effects of this most recent gradual descent into coffee-lessness have yielded different results. What was once a daily routine has been reduced to a one day treat. Yes, I said it. One. Day. Unheard of. But I've just been so sluggish lately, I'm beginning to think it's not worth it to cut down this much. And what's more, I've noticed that I've been replacing coffee with sugar –– specifically soda. Not a good thing. All that sugar isn't helping at all with the sluggishness, by the way. I feel like I could nap all day. So what am I getting at with all this? Now that I've pin-pointed the source of my newly-adopted sloth-like behavior, the coffee self-deprivation is over. I just want my coffee back. Have a good, coffee-filled day. (image: Instagram)

Luminous Whatnots

2012-02-20T10:00:00.000-06:00

I happened upon these lighters from Etsy store, Luminous Whatnots a while back and was intrigued by their vintage charm. Unfortunately the ones below are no longer available, but the ones above and a whole bunch of others still are. So if you're looking for a unique gift for someone, or if vintage lighters and knick knacks are your thing, then give 'em a visit.

Pink Friday

2012-02-17T10:00:00.000-06:00

Two furniture-related Pink Friday's in a row. Wha-what?! Alright, I'll calm down, I promise. But this is pretty cool stuff. This table by designer, Jo Nagasaka, is called "flat table peeled". It's a contemporary interpretation of the Japanese hassoku dai, a low 8-legged table. The unevenness of the plank top is smoothed with a neon epoxy. Seriously good stuff that I've had stored in my favorites forever. Glad I've unearthed it today. Have a fab weekend! (More images at the source.)

Bear with me

2012-02-16T10:00:00.000-06:00

Sweet illustrations by Oli Poli.

And a tiger, too!

Word as Image

2012-02-15T10:00:00.000-06:00

...an inventive little typographic video based on the book by Ji Lee, animated by Bran Dougherty-Johnson. Majorly impressed by this, I must say. More info here.

Oh hey!

2012-02-14T10:00:00.001-06:00

image via The Indigo Bunting

Two Too Pretty

2012-02-13T10:00:00.000-06:00

Band of Outsiders Fall 2012 dress + a page from Le Livre de la Sante by Joseph Handler, 1968 (source).

Pink Friday

2012-02-10T10:00:00.000-06:00

Lucas Maassen & Sons. A collaboration project by Dutch industrial designer, Lucas Maassen and his three sons, Thijme, Jullian, and Maris (ages nine, seven, and seven, respectively). The kids are paid one euro for every piece of furniture painted, but due to Dutch child labor laws are only allowed to work three hours per week. The shortened time table only contributes to their charm. More images and a video here. (via Miss Moss)

From above

2012-02-09T10:00:00.000-06:00

Well that's one way to use Google's satellite view. Satellite Collections, a series of collages by Jamie Odell, has me squinting and staring for all the right reasons. Collages of what, you might ask? Everything from basketball courts and nuclear cooling towers, to water slides and empty parking lots -- all from above. And while you're checking out Jamie's work, be sure to catch the All the People on Google Earth series. I'll just let you guess what that involves.

Shelter Dogs

2012-02-08T10:00:00.000-06:00

It's no secret that I'm a dog lover, so these moving portraits of American shelter dogs by photographer Traer Scott really hit the spot. These shots are just a few in the series, Shelter Dogs, a book available at the ASPCA website, of which all proceeds go to the non-profit. I'll admit, I did get a little choked up even when reading this article and this interview with the photographer. Especially when it was mentioned that not every dog photographed was adopted; some were eventually euthanized. These portraits serve as a tribute to the dignity and courage these dogs show in the face of their often short, troubled lives.

Stone Fox Bride

2012-02-07T10:00:00.000-06:00

Brides, want the wow on your big day without the fuss of an overpowering dress you'll never be able to wear again? Newly opened Manhattan bridal showroom, Stone Fox Bride, might be the way to go. The sunny store boasts a range of bridal services (shamans and sex therapists and Pilates, oh my!) in addition to their beautiful bride-and-bridesmaid-friendly dresses by designers Mandy Coon, Electric Feathers, Daryl K, Wren, and more.

And of course, this being a design blog and all, the wispy, eclectic decor of the shop didn't escape my notice. I can't imagine an experience in this store, open to the public today, to be anything but visually satisfying. (via NY Times)

I mean...

2012-02-06T10:00:00.000-06:00

It's typography and chocolate. Typography. And. Chocolate.

Dynamo teamed up with Suite 88 to make these chocolate bars to give as corporate gifts. Pretty much the only way this could get better would be if...oh, wait. No it can't!....

..........Except, holy shit, it does! Because now you can buy these bars, and download the original artwork they were based on as a wallpaper for your iPhone, iPad, or desktop! Mondays aren't so bad, huh?

(discovered on: Nicework Ramble)

Pink Friday

2012-02-03T10:00:00.000-06:00

By Santiago Salvador. Previously posted some of his work here. Have a great weekend!

An assemblage

2012-02-02T10:00:00.001-06:00

...from New York boutique, Assembly New York. The day it gets warm and sunny enough to wear all of these together sans coat will be a lovely day indeed. Links below:

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6

Hel Yes!

2012-02-01T10:00:00.000-06:00

No, that's not a typographical error, it's Finish concept restaurant, Hel Yes!, kicking off this year's Stockholm Design Week on Skeppsholmen Island at the heart of Stockholm. Hel Yes! first debuted during London Design Week, where the event focused of food and design, while the Stockholm experience is said to be more centered around the social aspects of dining. How's this for a promotional shoot? More info on the culinary experience here.

(discovered on cool hunting)

Color theory

2012-01-31T10:00:00.000-06:00

Kicking my own ass over how perfect and simple these File Under posters by Mark El-khatib and Ray O'Meara are. If you look closely, you'll see a fine wood grain beneath the wash of color. I especially love the last one (and the first, because come on, it's pink). A graphic design teacher of mine used to have an issue with gradients. It was a running joke in class. I don't think it was gradients specifically she had a problem with, but the execution, which I completely understand and agree with. A gradient between vastly different colors in the hands of a student is a terrifying thing. I jest (somewhat). Of course when done correctly and without irony, a good gradient goes a long way. In fact I think some designers play around with them just to prove that it can be done. Okay, I'm done with my uppity gradient rant, enjoy the pretty. (source: but does it float)

Cover up

2012-01-30T10:00:00.000-06:00

Images take on such a different texture and feel when combined with other media, in this case, paint. You have to wonder what lies beneath the veil of pigment in these works by Claire Falkenberg:

(discovered on Abundance // The Jealous Curator)

Pink Friday

2012-01-27T10:00:00.000-06:00

I've been a little slack-y on blogging this week due to having to take care of Leo and his stitched up ear. He likes to scratch at it at three in the morning, so that's been fun *please note the sarcasm*. I'm pretty sure he ripped a stitch, so a call to the vet is in order. Ugh, the thought makes me cringe. Other than that, he's been doing really well.

Anyway, on to Pink Friday... this vintage magazine ad from Japan is so wonderfully pink and simple – two very good things to be. Hope you guys have a restful weekend. (Image via 50 Watts)

Happy Birthday, Leo!

2012-01-26T10:01:00.000-06:00

This little guy sure had a big week, and now he's tuning eight! Happy birthday, little love. You've come a long way from the pomegranate box. (images taken with Instagram)

The Sundance Kid

2012-01-26T10:00:00.001-06:00

The Sundance Film Festival started late last week and is coming to a close. I like movies as much as the next person, but honestly, my favorite part of film festivals has always been the portraits. They're always super casual and fun, with loads of personality -- the kinds of pictures you probably take with your friends, only for the purpose of promoting and selling a film. Plus it's cold and snowy in Utah, so people are dressed all snuggly warm and adorable. Here's a few portraits from recent days. The ones above are of the stars of "Celeste and Jesse Forever" (via Popsugar), the ones below are from various movie casts at the festival (via EW). My personal fave, because I'm such a big Breaking Bad fan, is the portrait of one Mr. Aaron Paul biting his sweater *sigh*.

California dreamin'

2012-01-25T10:00:00.000-06:00

It's all hard angles and endless amounts of light in this Silicon Valley home designed by Swatt Miers Architects. White stucco, mahogany and glass sure make a good palette. The residence is home to a young couple and their two kids and rests on 2.8 acres of land. The design is based on an L-shaped plan with two wings, connected in the middle by a spacious living/dining area flanked with glass. (via ArchDaily)

Mr. Fancy Ears

2012-01-24T19:58:00.001-06:00

Yesterday I spent pretty much the entire day at the vet so Leo could have surgery to remove three benign growths on his body. Two were on his chest (turns out they were just fatty deposits, thank goodness), one in his right ear, and he's actually got a fourth lump on his shoulder that we decided didn't have to go since it was aspirated and said to be fine. While he was under, he also got his teeth cleaned, so he's got quite a bright smile. He's now back to his bright-eyed bushy-tailed self. Anyway, the lump removed from his right ear required a tight stitching since there's not a whole lot of skin to work with in there, so for now, and who knows, maybe forever, he's got one "special" ear. I'll admit, the possibility of it healing that way bothered me at first, because he has perfect textbook Pug ears, but the more I look at him, the more endearing his upturned ear becomes. He's a charming little guy, isn't he? If anyone can pull off fancy ears, it's him.

(Images taken with Instagram)

Breakfast club

2012-01-23T10:00:00.000-06:00

They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Personally, with the exception of the occasional brunch or trip to IHOP, I've never been one for breakfast. Now it's not that I don't enjoy breakfast foods; on the contrary, I actually love them...just not in the morning. I just can't handle real food until past 10 o'clock-ish. But for those of you who indulge in this early morning routine, this photographic series by Sayaka Minemura might tickle your fancy. Hell, it tickled mine. More here.

The weekend blog

2012-01-20T10:02:00.000-06:00

(...or click on the "follow Two and Twenty on Tumblr" button in the left sidebar at any time.)

Pink Friday

2012-01-20T10:00:00.000-06:00

Horse with golden legs by The Good Machinery. (Notice how it gets all sorts of punchy around here as the weekends roll along?) Enjoy.

Forgotten Bookmarks

2012-01-19T10:00:00.000-06:00

What do you guys use as bookmarks? Post-its? Business Cards? Actual, honest to goodness bookmarks? What about love letters, photographs, drawings, and grocery lists? That's exactly what you'll find at Forgotten Bookmarks, the blog-turned-book by used and rare bookseller, Michael Popek. Buy the book here, and pop a bookmark in it.

Have you hugged a porcupine lately?

2012-01-18T10:00:00.000-06:00

Origami pins and other fun stuff over at Hug a Porcupine.

I would LOVE to eat here

2012-01-17T10:00:00.000-06:00

Wouldn't you? Amelie and Friends is a sweet little spot located in Chichester, West Sussex, and the place was designed by 44th Hill. I can just imagine the restaurant wafting with warmth and conversation on a daily basis. And as you know (or maybe you don't), I have a fascination with white walls.

Good on paper

2012-01-16T10:00:00.000-06:00

Happy Monday! Start the week by getting lost in these fictional paper landscapes by British artist, Kyle Kirkpatrick. All source links below the pics; there's a few of them.

via 1 / 2 / 3 / 4

Pink Friday

2012-01-13T10:00:00.000-06:00

These lollipops from Lollipops By Mihow are the prettiest I've ever seen.

pictured: Tingled Pink / Grandma pops

Diggin' it

2012-01-12T10:00:00.000-06:00

Once again, I am unable to edit down, but that's okay, because these photographs by Andrew B. Myers are pretty rad. I'm just gonna leave these right here...

Two Too Pretty

2012-01-11T10:00:00.000-06:00

Spring's just around the corner, right?

Jonathan Saunders Spring 2011 Ready-to-Wear dress + work by Jennis Li Cheng. Discovered here and here.

So much love for these

2012-01-10T10:00:00.000-06:00

I kept going over the contents of this set by Leo Calvillo on Flickr, because it's exactly the kind of design that usually draws me in – the collage-like nature, the muted color palette, and the use of transparent shapes.

That's pretty.

2012-01-09T10:00:00.000-06:00

Oh yes it is. Love this look inside the minimalist home of Melanie Ireland of Simple Kids.

Discovered on Design & Form.

Pink Friday

2012-01-06T10:00:00.000-06:00

It's the first Pink Friday of 2012! Enjoy this myth-inspired illustration by Juan Chavarria Jr. via Miss Moss. Have a great weekend!

Northern Lights

2012-01-05T10:00:00.000-06:00

Alright then, now that we're almost a week into the new year, things are getting back to normal, back into the swing of things. Finally, a post that's non-holiday (or birthday/anniversary) related. Enjoy these images from Scaf the Seal, 1936 by Russian illustrator, Feodor Rojankovsky (1891-1970). via 50 Watts. Love the texture and transparency of the colored pencils against each other.

Two and Twenty + One

2012-01-04T10:00:00.000-06:00

original gif via Reed and Rader

For next year

2012-01-03T10:05:00.000-06:00

...although the tree is still up. Cat ornaments from Old World Primitives on Etsy to make your spirits bright.

There is a light that never goes out

2012-01-03T10:00:00.000-06:00

I so wish I could have discovered these before last year's (!!!) Two and Twenty Days of Christmas list. Jason Hull makes these night lights out of real vintage cameras from the 50s and 60s. The insides and shutters are removed to reduce their weight, and only non-funtioning cameras are used. Rare cameras aren't sacrificed either. Discovered on Swiss Miss, via Junkculture.

Hello again!

2012-01-01T09:00:00.000-06:00

fireworks image via; all other images in post links below

Two and Twenty is just shy of a year old today (our birthday is on the fourth), but the amount of inspiration accumulated here over the past three hundred sixty some odd days has pleased even me, the curator. It's really important to like your blog, you know, and I'm happy to have one that I can look back on when I need a creative jolt and know that I'll be inspired. It's like my own indulgent version of Pinterest (though I've got one of those, too!). SO much love in here, what about a run-down? Some highlights from the year that was:

- The amazing floors from this post made the rounds on Pinterest and Tumblr.
- ...as did this colorful court.
- I forced the color pink down your throat every Friday. And you loved it.
- I decked the halls this Christmas with 22 fab gift ideas.
- Art and fashion (aren't those the same thing?!) shacked up and procreated.
- I went to town on Pinterest, and this post was featured on the Pinterest blog.
- I drooled all over myself with these pretty foods. (And pinned a whole bunch here!)
- Photography stole my heart.
- ...while cinemagraphs stole the show.
- I bitched about the weather. (Like. Every. Fucking. Day.)
- I had a taste for collages and mixed media.
- We all embraced the classics. A little Twombly never hurt anyone.
- Some clever comparisons were made.
- I got all emotional and shit.
- Finally, as a recent addition to the blog, I spent a portion of my weekends in here.

So there you go, peeps. Let's keep our eyes open to the year ahead – a year that will hopefully be full of love, health, and opportunity, and as always, as much inspiration as you can take away. I resolve to at least provide that, for you and for myself.

Here's to design and other pretty things. And here's to you. Cheers.

Pink Friday

2011-12-23T10:05:00.000-06:00

Check out this amazing pink Christmas tree from the home of Nicole Balch of Making it Lovely. You can buy your own here (though I'd be tempted to keep this baby up all year). They've got quite a selection of pinks, including a flocked tree and this lighter pink version of the one below. And, I spy with my stripe-loving eye, a pillow from Proud Mary just chilling in the background. So there you go; even more things to covet.

Aww, it's Two and Twenty's first Christmas! Hope all of you who celebrate the holiday, and even those who don't, are warm, safe, and well-fed this season. Taking a little mini-blogging break since the holiday activities don't really leave room for much else, making this the last post of 2011. Until we meet again :)

Happy Birthday, Louie!

2011-12-23T10:00:00.000-06:00

Happy ninth birthday to my adorable, hilarious little trouble-maker, Louie!

Oh hey, did you hear? Christmas shopping is exhausting.

2011-12-22T10:00:00.000-06:00

So it's late December here in Illinois, and at least where I live, in the Northwest suburbs, we've had no measurable, lasting snowfall to render this year's Christmas "white". But walk into any store, or spend at least two minutes in any parking lot within a hundred miles of here and there's no question – it's definitely the holidays. I'm finishing a week of going in and out of the same mall (and it's surrounding stores) almost everyday. And while I do love getting bundled up and cute in my winter garb, it is HOT once you're actually in there, side-by side with hundreds of other last-minute shoppers, latte in hand. It's tiring, but also somewhat fun to be caught up in all that commotion. At the end of the day, you end up looking like this:

One more post tomorrow for Pink Friday (and it sure is lovely), then I'll probably be hibernating for a few days to a week. Because seriously, dudes. I've got shoulder/back issues just from this past week of bag handling. Not that that would interfere with posting, but it is the holidays after all. Image via Tania Shcheglova

Elsewhere

2011-12-21T10:00:00.000-06:00

Who's going out of town this coming holiday week? I sure as hell wish I was. But until then, some shots by Maria Ines Pires: sort of what you always imagined your ideal vacation photos would look like (shot in film, no less!).

Here and there

2011-12-20T10:00:00.000-06:00

A sweet little series by illustrator and designer, Marisa Seguin.

Rear Window

2011-12-19T10:00:00.000-06:00

Oh hey, did you hear? Christmas time is just around the corner! But these store windows from the all over the world have been around a little while longer, greeting patrons and passerby's with holiday cheer. It never ceases to amaze me how creative the themes are every year. I've yet to visit the stores in downtown Chicago this winter, so I might be in for a treat. Here are some of the best displays from New York, Paris, and London's stores.

My favorites are the little Karl Lagerfeld's in the Chanel-themed windows at Printemps in Paris. Too. Damn. Adorable.

via Vanity Fair

Pink Friday

2011-12-16T10:00:00.000-06:00

Oh hey there! Happy Friday! More vintage Japanese ads from the fifties.

And it all started with this...

2011-12-15T10:00:00.000-06:00

I was gonna post about Thakoon's newest collection on Monday, but I don't like doubling up on fashion posts, because (for the most part) this isn't a fashion blog. Anyway, I'm glad I waited a bit, because since then, there have been a few more shows. And you know me, once I post my faves from one designer, I gotta post about the others as well. Somebody stop me! First things first: Thakoon. Now the Thakoon Pre-Fall collection has been making the rounds for good reason. It's so tactile, and neutral, and warm.

Thakoon Addition is a little darker in tone, a bit more accessible, but just as enjoyable.

Doo.Ri's got this smoky, plum-y, drape-y silk dress that I'm just obsessed with (lower left):

Of course J. Mendel dresses are sure to make the rounds this awards season. And for off the red carpet, a little bit of swank.

The Jason Wu show was one of the first to drop this season, and it sure was memorable.

A little Vera Wang, because I can't quite let go of the maxi dress. (And is that a yellow leather skirt I spy?)

And finally, if asked, I'd always say 3.1 Phillip Lim is my favorite designer. This season the collection gets downright comical in the best possible way, with a little bit of pop art in the lead.

Look closely

2011-12-14T10:00:00.000-06:00

Do you see the names in that tree up there? Pretty amazing, huh? I can't get enough of these tree drawings by Mattias Adolfsson. And the thing is, I've only chosen the trees; there are way more beautiful and detailed illustrations right here for you to stare at all the livelong day. And I do suggest finding these trees in there again to enlarge so you can inspect the detail. They really are something else.

discovered on Hivenn

Quirky discovery of the day

2011-12-13T10:00:00.000-06:00

So delighted to have stumbled across these cute little animal-themed products from Animalia, including these altered vintage plates...

...plus some gifts for the babes and kiddos, too! Do you remember these little little golden books? Because I had like a bajillion of those growing up. Sure brings back memories.

discovered on arthound

Two Too Pretty

2011-12-12T10:00:00.000-06:00

Vionnet Spring 2012 RTW skirt and blouse + Black Dress Party Butterflies and Bows print by Louise van Terheijden (Etsy).

Pink Friday

2011-12-09T10:00:00.000-06:00

This week started off with a bang, and now it's the second Pink Friday of December – oh my, December! Where did the time go? Stay warm, friends, and a happy weekend to all!

Croissants de lunes wallpaper by Bartsch

Jump!

2011-12-08T10:00:00.000-06:00

This is just fun, honestly. Been loving this 1950's photography series (entitled, Jump, of course) by Philippe Halsman for a while now, and had saved the bookmark forever ago. Here's just a few favorites (they're all from the second page):

More at Laurence Miller Gallery

A Tale of Two Cities

2011-12-07T10:00:00.000-06:00

By Laurie Rollitt.

Cat Lady

2011-12-06T10:00:00.000-06:00

Yesterday's post was quite the holiday behemoth, but it was oh so very fun! So today it's gonna be a little more low-key around here, but of course there's always this and this...oh hey, check out these cats! Photography by Eduardo Pedro Oliveira.

Two and Twenty Days of Christmas

2011-12-05T10:00:00.000-06:00

I know, I know, you all want iPads for Christmas. Well, you won't find any on this list, but you may find a case or two, along with a bunch of other stuff I've piled together to give you the first ever....Two and Twenty Days of Christmas! That's 22 items, for you sleep-deprived readers, just keep scrolling! Not just for the ladies, but there's something for the guys and the kids, too. And because it is surprisingly hard to put all twenty two into one board without it looking cray-cray (I'm sure it's possible, but I'm pressed for time), I've split the gifts into two: Outdoor Cozy and Indoor Glam. Cue the jingle bells!

THERE'S MORE AFTER THIS LIST OF LINKS, SO KEEP SCROLLING!
1. Men's Oxford Shirt, J.Crew. Plaid is pretty much the guy's version of leopard. Oh hell, I love it, too.

2. Marc by Marc Jacobs 'Balloon Miss Marc' Gloves, Nordstrom. Were it not for editing, I could legit do an entire post on just gloves. These have little openings in the thumbs and index fingers, so you can access your phone. (Just don't text while crossing the street, please!)

3. Boys' Skull and Crossbones Sweater, Old Navy. Even I would wear this.

4. Racoon face Hat, Target. I own this hat! It's a relatively thin knit, so it won't screw up your hair too much. I wear it with my chunky knit snood.

5. Steve Madden 'Cablee Boot', Nordstrom. I'm a girly-girl who wears a lot of blazers and knits this time of year. Needed new boots to go with all that. I thought these were too rugged for me...until I tried them on. They're so good.

6. Wool and the Gang Snood Dogg DIY Wool Scarf Kit (Camel shown), Net-A-Porter. The perfect gift for all you stylish knitters. Why buy a scarf when you can make a snood? (Also comes in black, grey, and other scarf varieties.)

7. Illume Boulangerie Jar Candle, Anthropologie. You know how it always smells amazing inside Anthro? This is just one of the reasons why.

8. Woody iPhone 4 Case, Jack Spade. Ladies with iPhones are probably familiar with Kate Spade's amazing cases. Here's an equally-sophisticated one for the dudes.

9. Le Black Bear Stud Earrings, Le Animale. I'm a big fan of quirk. And bears...and earrings. (previously)

10. Melissa & Doug Plush Boston Terrier, Target. For that little babe who's not quite ready for the real thing. We've all got at least one kid in the family screaming for a dog.

11. A Very She & Him Christmas. Because Zooey Deschanel's voice was made for holiday music.

12. Metallic Telegram Clutch, Madewell. Currently on sale, and super fab!

13. NARS Lipstick in 'Heat Wave', Sephora. I almost don't want to divulge this, but to everyone in Illinois who's ever asked me what lipstick I'm wearing, it's this.

14. Fresh Brown Sugar Affair Set, Sephora. The perfect remedy to you winter skin. Nothing beats a scrub. We gals love to pamper ourselves; this kit comes with the Passion tinted version of the cult classic, Sugar lip treatment.

15. Honeydew Polka-Dot Undies, Madewell. Comes in four colors, but I fancy the black and pink the most. So cute and on trend! (What? You can have trendy undies.)

16. Marc by Marc Jacobs 'Turnlock Shine' iPad Case, Nordstrom. It's taupe. It's patent leather. It's got this cute little turn lock detail. And with any luck, someone who loves you will get you an iPad to put in it.

17. M Missoni Small Doll Knitted Keyfob, Net-A-Porter. Any Missoni fans in the house? A more accessible, totally eye-catching bauble to clip on your bag or keys.

18. Native Union 'Retro' Handset in Gold, Nordstrom. This was a cute little find that makes total sense. Those Bakelite phones really were more comfortable to hold for long conversations. (Not that I was alive in the fifties.) It also hooks up to iPads and laptops to make more private Skype-ing a breeze.

19. Pug Bookends, Z Gallerie. This is hilarious because I don't have many physical books, but I do have two Pugs. Shall we stand the iPad, Kindle, as well as all the household phones back-to-back? Why yes, yes we shall.

20. Leopard Sidewalk Skimmer, Madewell. Because leopard is about as neutral as it gets in my book. Don't question the classics.

21. ChaChaCha Sweater, Kate Spade. Well this is just fun, honestly.

22. Sephora by OPI Four Piece Full Size Glitter Nail Color Set, Sephora. For gals who love glitz! They make some pretty good glitter polishes (and I've tried a few). Great for layering; the gold is my personal favorite.

Phew! Well there you have it. Happy shopping!

Pink Friday

2011-12-02T10:00:00.000-06:00

This week's Pink Friday features some excerpts from the beautiful Infra series, shot in Eastern Congo by photographer, Richard Mosse. Have a good one.

The sun also rises

2011-12-01T10:00:00.000-06:00

Some works by Tony Kuchar. I won't bore you with my words today. Enjoy.

Identity: The Buccaneer

2011-11-30T10:00:00.000-06:00

Feast your eyes on this stunning identity set done for former Charleston restaurant, The Buccaneer, by designer Alvin Diec. Although the establishment closed its doors in 2010 (bad economy, wouldn't you know), this material is still pretty spiffy.

A study

2011-11-29T10:00:00.000-06:00

Help, my painter's envy is showing. I blame these gorgeous works by Mark Horst. (also on Flickr)

Kin Ship Press

2011-11-28T10:00:00.000-06:00

Put an animal on just about anything, and I'm a fan. I love these quirky-cool shirts and shams by Kin Ship Press on Etsy. And from now until November 30th, you can get 10% off your order and free shipping! (using this code: KSPHOLIDAY ) Just in time for your holiday gift buying.

Pink Friday (which also just happens to be Black Friday)

2011-11-25T10:00:00.000-06:00

Funny how that works out, yeah? Probably the only thing that trumps Thanksgiving in terms of fanfare or what have you, is the morning after. It's the biggest shopping day of the year, folks! If you're stateside and observe this pseudo-holiday, then happy trails and good deals to you! And if you're not willing to brave the crowds, then stay indoors and have a cup of something hot on my behalf, because I'm going! Everyone outside the US, go ahead and have that something hot anyway, you deserve it. It is the weekend after all. Cheers!

EDITED to say: The URL to my Tumblr blog is now http://twoandtwentyweekends.tumblr.com/ You'll see me as "twoandtwentyweekends" on your dash if you're following from Tumblr. It's the same blog, just named so because that's where to "find" me on days when this place is quiet – weekends. Link in the sidebar.

source: bruce weber / via matchbook mag

Seriously? It's Thanksgiving already?

2011-11-23T16:20:00.001-06:00

My fam and I are not the turkey eating type, not being from around here and all. But we don't shy away from a little food baby-inducing merriment. We'll be buffet-ing it up at Todai, then we'll be up before the birds for Black Friday post food-coma. Have a safe and happy holiday, for those of you who celebrate it!

source: anthro on tumblr

Camera Obscura

2011-11-23T10:00:00.000-06:00

Okay, hold the phone, because these photographs by Abelardo Morell are nothing short of amazing. The reflections on the walls weren't put there via Photoshop or projector, but by a photography technique called camera obscura. Basically the rooms in the photos are completely darkened while a small pinhole is cut through whatever curtain is blocking the outside light. That pinhole exposes the view from the window onto the opposite wall. That's a watered-down explanation of the centuries-old technique; more on camera obscura here. Pretty cool, huh?

(discovered via Design Crisis)

Sweater weather

2011-11-22T10:00:00.000-06:00

I hate being warm, but I love being bundled up in a giant sweater. So sue me, I'm weird. And if said sweater also happens to be an intarsia knit like the one illustrated above by Robbie Porter, then get the hell out of my way, because I'm all over it. More works from the artist below:

Steady

2011-11-21T10:30:00.000-06:00

Screenprints from Steady Print Shop. The second one below is destined for "cat lady" greatness.

Once you go black

2011-11-21T10:00:00.000-06:00

No, those pics above are not of my own pups. They're snapshots from the Dogs series by photographer, Mark Peckmezian. Lots of charming stuff in here, especially if you're a breed loyalist like me. So much character in these little boogers' portraits.

A note on why I chose these particular shots: I have two Pugs – one fawn, and one black. This isn't news. I love them both (again, this isn't news). I'm one of those people who is obsessed with her dogs. Now, while they're both too adorable for words, Louie, the fawn, tends to attract more attention in public than Leo, my black Pug. I attribute this to Louie's chill demeanor and expert bitchface, but I digress. Anyone lucky enough to have had both a black and a fawn Pug at the same time will tell you that the latter have at least twice the personality and energy of the former. In other words, my little Leo – God love him – is a giant handful. This is a dog who gets upset when his toy falls off the couch, and cries while I prepare his dinner because he's so excited to eat. He also has no concept of personal space, and thus annoys Louie to no end. The two of them, they make a great team. And although he's kinda crazy, I love the hell out of Leo.

(discovered here)

Pink Friday

2011-11-18T10:00:00.000-06:00

What's in store for this week's Pink Friday? A beautiful pink rug from Loom that may be just what you need to pull that space of yours together.

Sorry there was no post yesterday. Funny story, a few months ago I found out I was allergic to the cold (I'm not kidding), and since I live in Illinois, where it's very cold right now, I had to up my allergy meds Wednesday night. Which leads to super groggy sleepiness, which of course leads to no posting on Thursday morning. Luckily on days this place is quiet, there's always this and this. <---(seriously check those out)

Stay warm, folks! And have a great weekend!

Out of context

2011-11-16T10:00:00.000-06:00

Am I the only one with a headache and too much to do? Excuse me while I go curl up in a little ball. Meanwhile, a little Wednesday morning treat for you today, courtesy of John Clang. More below:

Pretty little book covers

2011-11-15T10:00:00.000-06:00

Pretty Little Book Covers is such a sweet little collection. These are just a few faves from the blog.

Oh, hey! Pretty Little Book Covers is on Tumblr, and now, so is Two and Twenty! Link in the sidebar right above the Twitter button. Or click right here.

Favorites from Zara's newest

2011-11-14T10:00:00.000-06:00

How many times a year do you think I can blog about Zara's look books before folks are sick of 'em? Because I'm not sick of 'em – far from it. These are some favorites from their November look book, and I am in love with all this mix of textures and print. And an ikat skinny pant never hurt anyone.

PSA, just while it's new, a little reminder that Two and Twenty now has a Tumblr. Link in the sidebar on top of the Twitter button.

Pink Friday

2011-11-11T10:00:00.000-06:00

Pink Flamingo prints – buy 'em over at I Need Nice Things. Have a great weekend! (btw, it's 11-11-11 today...anyone getting married?)

PSA, just while it's new, a little reminder that Two and Twenty now has a Tumblr. Link in the sidebar on top of the Twitter button.

Stockings, of all things.

2011-11-10T10:30:00.000-06:00

When I came across these Strathcona Stockings trouser socks yesterday, I immediately had visions of pairing the floral ones with some oxfords or brogues. Their light-weight, silky stockings are hand-printed, making each one unique. Now, is it shitty of me to show you things on here that are no longer available for purchase? Because lovely as they are, many are sold out. But if it's any consolation, that middle pair up there with the cosmos print hasn't even come out yet! And the one below is still for sale on Strathcona's Etsy shop (along with a few others that are just wonderful!). They're very Stella McCartney with the whole citrus thing going, right? (discovered at Aviary Studio)

PSA, just while it's new, a little reminder that Two and Twenty now has a Tumblr. Link in the sidebar on top of the Twitter button.

Can't go wrong with...

2011-11-10T10:00:00.000-06:00

…a little vintage advertising poster inspiration. Some works featured in the 1971/1972 issue of Graphis Annual, via the nonist.

PSA, just while it's new, a little reminder that Two and Twenty now has a Tumblr. Link in the sidebar on top of the Twitter button.

Yes, this really exists.

2011-11-09T13:11:00.000-06:00

One little thing before we start. You may notice this new button in the left sidebar. Any of you guys on Tumblr? Because, yes, Two and Twenty now has a Tumblr (Woo-hoo!). For all those little things too short on content to blog here, or too repetitive to pin on Pinterest. I already had an account previously, and can't believe it took me this long, but got the push when peeps started tumbling things from here. Now all that uncategorized stuff goes in there (because I'm a total nutcase who just needs to be everywhere).

There was once a time way in the beginning of Two and Twenty (earlier this year), back when it had very little traffic, that I thought about just transferring the whole blog over there. But it would have been unwieldy with the number of posts already on here, and not a good fit for the amount that I like to write. So anyway, give it a look, and maybe even a follow if you're feeling generous. In the meantime, back to your regularly scheduled programming:

Texture, layers, and a muted but rich palette reminiscent of a bustling city in the winter. You'd think I was describing my ideal cold weather uniform, but I'm talking about this awesome little thing by Singapore design studio, A Beautiful Design. So cool, no? Here's a little taste of what's on the inside:

discovered here

Pintura

2011-11-08T10:00:00.000-06:00

So glad to have stumbled on these paintings by Santiago Salvador yesterday. So simple, colorful, charming, and yes, occasionally a little raunchy (but you won't be seeing those here). I was drawn to them immediately.

Little doodles

2011-11-07T10:00:00.000-06:00

Happy Monday! Here's just a couple of little doodles...by Little Doodles. I've totally been slacking around here. I attribute that statement to not having a pink thing up for Friday for the first time ever. But alas, the week is young, and I've got a lot of bookmarks. Enjoy.

Pink Friday

2011-11-04T10:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday! Collage by Natalie Nicklin (artist previously seen in Tuesday's post)

Oldies

2011-11-03T10:00:00.000-05:00

via Letterologist (1, 2, and 3)

Oh hey, did you hear?

2011-11-02T10:30:00.000-05:00

So apparently Urban Outfitters now has an online Suit Shop for all you dapper young dudes in need of a wardrobe change. Let me just say, I love a (preferably well-tailored) suit on a guy. Not everyone can pull it off, but for those scruffy gents who can wear the hell out of a suit, please, have at it.

Now obviously, these aren't custom, but it's good for when you wanna clean up without looking too put together. Brands include Ben Sherman, Volcom, Shades of Grey by Micah Cohen, Charles & 12, and more. Here's a video promo:

(sources: GQ / UO on Vimeo)