Nuevo Estilo Magazine + Treasures of India

La Dolce Vita just blogged about her fave new design magazine, Nuevo Estilo. She called it the magazine love child of Domino and Elle Decor and I couldn't agree more! Judging from the website (with the help of Google Translate), this magazine is right up my alley. I'm not sure if it's available for purchase anywhere in Manhattan, but I'll certainly be on the prowl. Here's a peek into the 'Treasures of India' section -- I desperately want that sari!

From American Gypsy Decor

From American Gypsy Decor

From American Gypsy Decor

From American Gypsy Decor

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Sari Bari: New Bags & Blankets

Friends in Kolkata run Sari Bari, a small company devoted to creating lovely handmade throws and bags made from recycled saris. But the eco-focus of the company isn't the only factor to make me smile, the employees of Sari Bari are women who have been exploited in the sex trade and now have the opportunity to make a new life for themselves and their family. Sari Bari is yet another company (like Be Sweet posted earlier in the week) that is creating freedom + dignity for women.


I received a notice last week that new bags and blankets have been posted! There wasn't much left in the blanket section, so I'm sharing a few of my fave bags....

From Sari Bari via American Gypsy Decor

From Sari Bari via American Gypsy Decor

From Sari Bari via American Gypsy Decor

From Sari Bari via American Gypsy Decor

From Sari Bari via American Gypsy Decor

From Sari Bari via American Gypsy Decor

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Modern + Traditional Indian Inspiration

I don't know where I found these, but they've been sitting in my clippings folder for a few months and rightfully burning a hole in my pocket! Australian Vogue, maybe?

From Inspiration Galore-American Gypsy Decor

From Inspiration Galore-American Gypsy Decor

From Inspiration Galore-American Gypsy Decor

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African Mohair + Yarn Market News Conference

I've been quiet for some time since all my creative energy was devoted to coordinating this year's Yarn Market News Conference. It was well worth every late night in the office!! Enthusiastic crowd, killer sponsorship from my favorite yarn and accessory companies (Eucalan, Classic Elite Yarn, Namaste Bags) and relevant, business savvy speakers. I met the most wonderful group of yarn store owners, designers and manufactures. How did I get so lucky as to land this job?!

One of the best parts of the Conference was connecting with Nadine Curtis of Be Sweet. Be Sweet is based on a socially responsible philosophy of creating jobs in South Africa while developing beautiful, unique yarn and accessories. Nadine works with traditional Xhosa women to design and knit mohair scarves and shawls, recycled t-shirt tote bags, and she's even created a market for oversized felt rocks. The end result is global gypsy meets California chic. Here's some of my favorites:

Poppy Scarf made from recycled t-shirts

Shelley Big Bag, a hooked rug tote made from recycled t-shirt material in any of the above colors

Fiber Necklace made from silk and felt scraps

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Rohit Bal Retail Store: New Delhi, India

The next time I visit India remind me to pack a little extra spending cash. I'll need plenty for Rohit Bal-- an intense, edgy and completely gorgeous new store in Delhi. The Indian By Design blog has released some exclusive photos highlighting this grandiose retail experience.

Designed and executed by Lotus Design, New Delhi. Rohit Bal Store at Emporio Mall, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi.

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DIY: Suzani Style Ottoman

From laviva-home.com

I wish I had a suzani. You have no idea. I've seen vendors selling damaged ones at really great rates. Here's the perfect project from Better Homes & Gardens Do It Yourself Magazine Winter 2008 for utilizing a less than perfect piece.

From BHG Do It Yourself Winter 2008

From BHG Do It Yourself Winter 2008

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