Retail Therapy: {Freda Salvador}

Fashion

Today’s Retail Therapy feature is extra special. I’m so excited to introduce you to a shop I not only love to shop in, but to a shoe line whose designer team I call both personal friends and a major inspiration.

I partnered up with photographer extraordinaire Emily Scott to take a special field trip to their first ever retail location on Union Street in San Francisco’s Marina neighborhood. Emily captured so many amazing images {and on actual film no less!!} that I was forced to break this feature into two posts!

So, without further ado, may I present Freda Salvador Part One: If the Shoe Fits.

For those of you who have yet to come across this fast-growing line {despite this press, and this press among many others}, start taking notes. Freda Salvador is a Cool Girl’s best friend. Created by actual friends, Megan Papay and Cristina Palomo, the line is made for a woman with a fashion forward aesthetic, but a commitment to practicality and comfort. Their entire 2013 Spring/Summer Collection is made up of versatile flats of all shapes, styles and of-the-moment colors.

Luckily for us San Francisco residents, they’re all displayed in the super cool Freda Salvador boutique. It feels more like someone’s home than a shop. I just want to go hang out on that couch every day!

As a well-documented high heel-addict, I’m usually skeptical of a flat shoe, but the ladies of Freda Salvador have helped me see the light! Between their Dream Flat Ankle Boot, See Swarovski D’orsay Loafers and Change Convertible Oxford, I might be kicking many of my heels to the curb. {Especially after reading this Vanity Fair article about how my high-heeled idol, SJP, is being forced to shun heels after years of damage to her feet!}

The Freda Salvador Change Convertible Oxford might be one of the smartest shoes I’ve ever seen. You can transform it from a classic lace-up oxford into a sleek slip-on loafer, simply by unsnapping the ingenious coverlet! I think their subtle green exotic print is going to be spring’s new neutral. Sign me up.

I can’t lie. I walked out of the Freda Salvador shop with no less than two of their amazing designs to add to my growing collection. The Dream Boots in cream are going to be my go-to’s all spring, but I’m already eyeing the black pair to have on reserve for fall.

My prize for the afternoon, however, was the D’orsay Loafer in an eye-catching yellow. I’ve already been stopped multiple times while wearing them around town! That always puts a little extra pep in my step!

And not to fret. If you don’t live in San Francisco you can snag your own pair of Freda’s online Shopbop or their site here!

Like what you’re seeing?? Do be sure to stop back by in a bit for Freda Salvador Part Two! You’re going to get a behind-the-scenes tour of Freda Salvador’s design studio and meet the lovely ladies who are the geniuses behind the line!

original photography by emily scott for apartment 34

Gotta Getaway: {Inverness, CA}

Gotta Getaway

We have a bonus post for you today! While half the world is at Coachella, I have a much calmer getaway for the rest of us to enjoy.

Last month, the husband and I took advantage of one of the greatest things about living in the Bay Area; jaw-dropping escapes less than two hours drive from our front door. In this case, I’m talking about Tomales Bay, the tiny town of Inverness that sits on it and the most lovely of hideaways, Manka’s Inverness Lodge – today’s Gotta Getaway destination!

I don’t know what I loved more about this spot. First there was the stunning scenery, which included 180 degree views enjoyed from our own private deck. Then there was the cabin’s exquisite details; the claw footed bathtub and outdoor shower, a five foot tall wood burning fireplace, a collection of amazing vintage flotsam and jetsam and the deepest, softest bed I’ve ever slept in {and really never wanted to get out of again.}

On top of all that, there was also the exceptional service. We dined on a homemade three-course dinner served in front of our roaring fire. We were spoiled with fresh made cinnamon buns, coffee and the best soft scrambled eggs all lovingly left with a gentle knock on our doorstep each morning. The New York Times that came with it made for the most leisurely of breakfasts, that led into afternoons spent in bed.

And when we finally forced ourselves to venture out of our private oasis, we ate fresh oysters and drank wine in the sunshine at Hogs Oyster Company. We saw gray whales migrating back to Alaska and stood on the edge of some the most beautiful coastline you’ve ever seen.

I am a firm believer in the exotic vacation destination, but you’d be amazed by what you can find in your own backyard, not mention how totally refreshed you can feel after only 48 hours away! I certainly can’t wait to see what we discover about the Bay Area next. We’re actually headed to Big Sur in just a few weeks.

You’ll definitely get the full report!!

all photography by me {eek!}

Gotta Getaway: {A Palazzo on the Isle of Crete}

Gotta Getaway

With spring break upon us, dreams of exotic destinations are dancing in our heads. I don’t know about you, but when traveling, where I stay is just as important as the place I’m visiting. If we’re going to take the time and make the investment to go on vacation I want the experience to be unforgettable from start to finish. A wonderful hotel is a key part of that equation. There’s really nothing more luxurious than staying in an exceptional hotel. It is my absolute favorite way to relax.

That’s why the Greek Island of Crete has jumped to the top of my Gotta Getaway wishlist!

The Palazzo Rimondi is in fact a historic villa, set in the heart of the medieval town of Rethymno on Crete. It has a gorgeous old-world charm that immediately appeals. With just 20 rooms, there’s none of that overwhelming “resort” feel. It’s more like you’re being welcomed into someone’s very well-appointed mansion!

I would love to explore the historic sites of Rethymno, which has a significant Venetian influence left intact from the 16th century. The town boasts an Fortezza, or castle, a Venetian style port, the church of St. Francis, a lovely beach and apparently an annual wine festival in July. Sign me up!!

Having traveled to other Greek islands (Santorini, Mykonos and Ios) years ago, I can already taste the fresh seafood, smell the salt air and imagine sipping a glass of wine while watching some of the most beautiful sunsets you’ve ever seen. I can just see myself meandering the narrow cobbled streets of Rethymno now! Le sigh.

It’s official, my dream bag to Palazzo Rimondi is packed.

dress // hat // swimsuit // sunnies // sandals // tote // nail polish // pants // top // bracelet

Don’t you love how you dress completely differently when on vacation? While I don’t know that I have a single pastel colored piece of clothing in my closet, I’m inspired by the dusty pink shades of Palazzo Rimondi’s stucco walls.

I’d love to cruise the island in an airy peach tank, cool linen trousers, and a cute canvas tote like the ones above. I can see long leisurely lunches spent by the pool in that gorgeous mint green DVF dress. And even if I never end up going to Crete, that coral bathing suit must be mine. I’m loving that the one-piece has made a comeback.

And while this trip may be just a dream, I’ll say Kaló taksídi (bon voyage!) anyway!

all images via Palazzo Rimondi

Idea to Steal {8}: Ain’t Paint Great

Decor

What is the definition of art? It’s in the eye of the beholder, right? I immediately called this piece art as soon as I saw it.

Portraits dipped in acrylic! These are created by New York-based artist Oliver Jeffers in a series called Without a Doubt.

I suspect, however, that Oliver’s work is out of my price range, so I’d love to make a DIY attempt to achieve this really dramatic look. The steps are simple. Scour the flea markets for old portraits (the more random, the better) and then pick a combination of poppy colors, dip your prints and viola! I’m already envisioning a mix of sizes and colors dotting our entry above a new console table (I’m coveting this one!)

What do you think? Do you find this look intriguing? Read a really fascinating interview with Oliver here.

images via here

Retail Therapy: {The Jean Shop, NYC}

Fashion

I’m the first to admit I’m a jeans addict. I just adore denim and have amassed a rather embarrassing collection over the years. But you know what they say, jeans go with everything, right?!

So when a friend told me about the Jean Shop: a store dedicated to custom and vintage denim with a major dose of Americana thrown in, I had to be sure to drop by during my last visit to New York.

As soon as I walked into the store, tucked into the heart of the Meatpacking District, I knew it had to be our next Retail Therapy feature!

The space was a stunning homage to the ultimate American fashions statement. Amazing vintage denim, hand crafted leather goods and collected vintage items dotted every shelf, hanger – every empty surface really. And yes, those would be tiny baby jeans in the above image. Cuteness overload.

The super cool thing about the Jean Shop? They specialize in custom denim, particularly for men – that they make by hand in the backroom! How cool (and old school!) is that?!

If you have a man in your life as skittish about trying on jeans as I do, then this might be your mens fashion holy grail. I now have a very good idea of what my upcoming wedding anniversary gift for my man will be (don’t read this honey!)! I’m just not sure how I’d convince him not to wash them for a year. (Did you know that if your jeans aren’t pre-faded or pre-stretched you really shouldn’t wash them for as long as you can stand it??)

I’m still a little pissed at myself for leaving without that stunning rustic leather briefcase!

I was loving the rainbow display of canvas belts. Future home organizing Idea to Steal perhaps…

While jeans might seem like such an everday item, they really can be elevated to an art form. When you use the highest quality Japanese denim, rich natural dyes and highly detailed craftsmanship, an ordinary wardrobe staple can become the ultimate fashion statement.

I had a blast browsing through jeans heaven. I want to thank the Jean Shop for inviting us in and letting us play in their ultra-cool store! I know I will be back (and stalking their entire women’s collection online in the meantime!)

Be sure to head over to Facebook to see more outtakes from my photographer and tall partner-in-Retail-Therapy-crime, Kelsey Combe!

original photography by kelsey combe for apartment 34

Behind the Blog on Style Me Pretty Living!

Business of blogging

Phew, this week is a biggie and it’s only Tuesday! Not only did we launch our new site yesterday, but we opened our doors to Style Me Pretty Living.

Have you seen their new site?? The ladies behind SMP have applied their gorgeous aesthetic and keen eye for detail to the decor and shelter world and we’re all better for it! Every home they feature makes me drool more than the last.

I’m also loving their Behind the Blog feature and am humbled to be included in the series. Head here to check out the entire interview!

Thanks again to Abby and Jacquelyn for having me.

photography by kelly ishikawa for apartment34.com

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