Color in Films: Howard the Duck

22 Thursday Aug 2013

Posted by melissaoconnor in Color in Films, Color Inspiration

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80s films, cherry bomb, color, color palette, comics, duck, film, howard the duck, hues, marvel comics, science fiction

There’s nothing like a good 80s film to bring you back to crazy filmmaking. Howard the Duck is definitely one of those pictures that is way out there, but how can you resist? Released in 1986, the film was based off the Marvel comic of the same name. Sadly, it received bad reviews at the time. However, I feel its one you shouldn’t miss.

The story starts in Duckworld, where Howard lives. One night while relaxing and reading the paper, he suddenly gets blown out of his apartment into the universe, and then lands on Earth, ending up in Cleveland, Ohio. As he arrives, he witnesses two guys attacking a girl and helps her. The victim, Beverly, takes him back to her place to stay as a thank you for saving her. He explains his story and she says she will try to get him back to his planet.

After meeting with a lab assistant they thought was a scientist, Howard thought it was useless so he started getting comfortable on Earth. He gets a job at a spa which he winds up quitting and then later becomes the manager of Beverly’s band, Cherry Bomb, after he learned their previous manager was no good for them. Eventually, scientists visit them and share answers as to how Howard got to Earth. From there the journey begins to get him back home but disaster happens when something goes wrong and evil creatures are brought into the picture. In the end, it all comes to a decision to go home back to Duckworld or stay on Earth and protect it from harm.

A wacky science fiction story it may be, but unique and funny as well. The color palette is one of brighter hues, explored through 80s fashion and decor. Boy, have times changed. You will find all colors of the rainbow in this one.

Color in Films: Howard the Duck

Sound in Color: Aphex Twin – Selected Ambient Works Volume II

20 Tuesday Aug 2013

Posted by melissaoconnor in Color Inspiration, Sound in Color

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album art, ambient, Aphex Twin, brown, color, color palette, grunge, light, music, orange, palette, red, Selected Ambient Works Volume II, shadow, texture, tone, warm hues, yellow

Aphex Twin was a big part of my youth. As I got older his music played roles in special memories of mine, ones I would never forget. When certain sounds find their way into your life and act as a soundtrack, you know its good. This is just one of albums that I really connected with. Just the light, airy sounds and unique combination of ambient beats took me to another place. There surely is no other to compare to Aphex Twin.

The album artwork is grungy and distorted, with the color of rust the main character. The play with light really creates a beautiful array of tone and shadow, while it goes from cream to orange and then to brown. And with the texture these colors display behind it, you just wish you could feel its beauty.

This is a nice palette to take in consideration when using warm hues in your home or event. Orange has so many shades, from tangerine to the carrot color we all know, and you can find a lot of them here. The same with yellow and brown, which also incorporates the red family. A whole lot of warmth resonates from this album, both inside and out.

Sound in Color: Aphex Twin - Selected Ambient Works Volume II

Right Hand Ladies

16 Friday Aug 2013

Posted by melissaoconnor in Bridal Party, Shopping, Weddings

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anthropologie, BHLDN, bridal party, bride, bridesmaids, dresses, elegant, fancy, florals, free people, garden wedding, jcrew weddings, m&S, maid of honor, ModCloth, mother nature, nature inspired, pastels, ruche, shopping, wedding party, wedding planning, weddings

There are so many elements to get in order for your wedding day. From invitations and decor to scheduling all the vendors you need just in time, it can be very overwhelming. One thing to remember is to always have fun and breathe. Planning your big day may be stressful but just know you have people right by your side to help along the way. What would a bride do without her maid of honor and bridesmaids? These are the ladies you personally handpicked to ride along with you. So its important to make sure they look their best and feel beautiful as well.

Here are some of my picks for the lovely ladies in your wedding party. I think it comes down to being comfortable, having the piece fit well, and not ending up costing tons of money. Anything easier on the pockets during an event such as a wedding will help out for sure. Hope you get inspired. Enjoy!

For a more casual garden, nature inspired wedding, these would totally fit the bill. Just because your event is not fancy doesn’t mean it won’t be elegant. Take cues from mother earth and explore florals, pastels, and flowy garments that are soft and delicate. These next picks I found at Ruche, BHLDN, ModCloth, Free People, and M&S.

Ruche – Enchanting Garden Printed Dress

BHLDN – Wingspan Dress

ModCloth – Pondside Processional Dress

ModCloth – The Latest Bouquets Dress

Free People – Cast Your Net Dress

Free People – He Loves Me Floral Dress

M&S – M&S Collection Deep V-Neck Ruched Bodice Chiffon Dress

Having a boho styled wedding incorporates natural elements but has a more earthy feel. Think dresses with layers of fabric, soft and flowy pieces, longer styles, and more handmade elements. Free People is hands down one of the best shops to look for this style of clothing. But I have found some other cute options at ModCloth and Anthropologie.

Free People – Cora Off the Shoulder Gown

Free People – Martini Embellished Trapeze

Free People – Modern Chinoise Dress

Ruche – Loved You First Pleated Maxi Dress

Anthropologie – Sapphire Day Dress

More upscale weddings with an elegant feel, should incorporate a more streamlined style. Simple pieces with beautiful fabrics that really make a statement. Same style is also popular in prom dresses – teranicouture.com/collection/prom-dresses-2017/. Maybe a little shimmer here and a touch of glam there, but not overbearing designs. Here are some of my favorites I found for all seasons from BHLDN, JCrew, M&S, Ruche, and Anthropologie.

BHLDN – Niceties Dress

BHLDN – Daylily Dress

JCrew – Mirabelle Dress in Silk Chiffon

M&S – M&S Collection Pleated Fit & Flare Dress

M&S – M&S Collection Sleeveless Mesh Spotted Prom Dress

Ruche – Sophia Monique Tiered Lace Dress

Anthropologie – Eclipsing Lace Dress

I know the bride is a main focus of the wedding, as she should be, but there are so many other important elements that are a part of the overall picture. I upsets me to see a bride who looks stunning and then bridesmaids who just seem uncomfortable and unhappy. They need attention as well. Just as much as the groom and his groomsmen. The bridal party should pop off the background of the wedding, meaning the overall style and theme of the decor as well as the natural setting should be a perfect setting for you all to shine.

Don’t lose your mind shopping endlessly for the perfect dresses and outfits. Besides local shops you always have the internet which comes with being able to try things on in your own home where you are more comfortable. I think that pretty awesome. And even though you have plenty of options where you are from, checking out places in other countries can sometimes really pay off, like the shop Marks & Spencers I included in my picks. You might be lucky to find something no one has seen before and find special deals on garments that might be pricier where you are from. The possibilities are endless.

Inspiration Photo Friday: Babies Galore

16 Friday Aug 2013

Posted by melissaoconnor in Inspiration Photo Friday

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american dream, baby, chapter, children, journey, kids, life, mommy to be, stress

We all know the routine of growing up. You get married, buy a home, and then have kids. The American dream, right? These past few years have been a whirlwind of weddings and new mommy’s. It’s all good and happy, but at the same time a little overwhelming.

I just turned 34 and I know I’m not getting any younger. But having kids right now just isn’t on my to do list. Since the year of our wedding and buying our first home, my husband and I have had it a little rough. Life has thrown us a handful of obstacles and it seems we are always fighting to get by. I started Gray Star Design in hopes to finally be successful on my end, while he works for less money than he deserves. The hardships of being an artist. So I would say, this is not a time to bring a child into the world. I mean, we don’t even have health insurance.

Growing up with a single mom who worked numerous jobs and having a Grandmother who raised four kids on nothing, I understand what it means to struggle. I, too, have struggled all my life financially. Being stressed for all these years about the one thing I don’t care about has surely taken its toll. Sadly, you need it to survive and all I know is the feeling of getting by. I certainly don’t want to raise a child in that kind of atmosphere, they deserve more than what I had. I am crossing my fingers that one day my husband and I can live a comfortable life without always dealing with financial stress. Then maybe, we can start a family.

So, with all these new babies and little kids running around, it does put a little pressure on me to have a child of our own. However, I am smart enough to know what is good for me, and my marriage and career is my focus at the moment. Just not ready to make my life all about someone else yet. And I know it doesn’t end when you have a baby, but in reality, it sort of does. It’s closing a chapter and starting a new one. I just have too much I still need to do.

Right now, I will embrace the little munchkins in my life and give them tons of love. I am lucky to have friends and family who have healthy children and I am very happy for the new chapter they have started. I wish them all the best on their journey as parents and will be there every step of the way to support them. Besides, I already have two furry kids of my own to take care of. They may not be the real thing, but they are mine and I love them with all my heart. It may be babies galore on the other side of rainbow but here on my side, the possibilities are endless.