Pretty as always

February is usually the coldest month and the most dreary were I live. So with February behind us and the first day of spring approaching, I've been searching for hints of spring through out the web. And let me tell you it is refreshing, the hope that the day will soon be here. Packing away the warm throw blanket from the sofa, replacing the duvet for a coverlet – ahh…..I can almost smell the flowers. How wonderful to have hit one of my fav websites – Anthropologie. The new spring catalog is out and as always there are beautiful pieces to inspire your pre-summer décor.

Here are a few pics I found inspirational.

Yes – these are shower curtains – how beautiful!
NEWS ALERT:
Amazing news for any and all Canadians!

There are plans are in the works to open Anthropologie stores in Toronto and West Edmonton. I am not sure of the exact date for the openings, but in Toronto it looks like Yorkville will be the destination of choice as well as a new mall in the Don Mills area. For Edmonton – I couldn’t find much information – but first thought was the big West Edmonton Mall? I will keep you posted once a date and locations are confirmed.

I have seen job postings on the web for positions so it can’t be too far away from opening day!

I think we're seeing a pattern here

Folklore and folk-art seems to be the hot new thing. What is modern folk? It’s an eclectic mix of traditional folk-art imagery with the vibrant color trends of today.

Think of Urban Outfitters and Anthropolgie these stores have been bringing you modern folk-art design for years….and I think this newly updated trend is about to really take off!

Here are a few examples that I am sure you have already seen around.

Wall hanging from Bride & Wolfe Cards and notebooks from Night Owl Paper Goods
Bedding from Anthropologie and Matryoshka Measuring Cups
Urban Outfitter pillow and jewelery holder
Other types of traditional folk-art that I think we’ll be seeing more of:
wycinanki {pronounced vi-chee-nahn-key} is a polish folk art that involves paper cutouts, bright colors and intricate patterns. Wycinanki dates back to mid 19th century and originated with polish sheepherders cutting designs out of tree bark and leather. In rural areas of Poland this craft is done for relaxation and passed down for generations, all the while designs and themes have become more intricate and detailed.
Here is a similar example in a beautiful pop-up placemat and reindeer wall hanging or check out the traditional print on the apron!

Another fascinating form of folk art is colcha fabric. This folk art has been practiced by the otomi Indians (from the tenango region of the Mexican state of hidalgo). Each piece of fabric usually comes in very bright colors and takes up to three weeks to complete. This region has been an impoverished region, and buying these fabrics helps the women who spend so much time making them and it also helps to sustain the viability of this tradition of endangered textiles.

Here is a beautiful bed spread and a stunning Kate Spade purse – keep your eyes open for more this spring//summer I think this look is very Pottery Barn!

Juju (or tyn) hats are a ceremonial accessory to the villages of cameroon. It is worn by chiefs, prominent officials and important dancers. The hats are made out of brightly colored feathers that are sewn onto a raffia fiber base. The feathers are utilized as a symbol of prosperity and positive qualities associated with birds.

Here is an example of the head piece and how it can work into your décor!

I hope you are inspired by these pictures and add a little folk to your space.