About Michiel Perry

Michiel is a Black Southern Belle living a lowcountry life. I love all things fashion, home decor and southern! When I am not running around doing fun stuff for Black Southern Belle, I live in antique stores and have a minor obsession with historic homes :)

Posts by Michiel Perry:

High_Point_2016

5 Perfect Pieces for Coastal Inspired Decor from Imagine Home

/ Home Decor & Fashion, Uncategorized / , , , , , , , , , / 0 Comments

Summer is here and it is beach season. If you are looking to refresh your beach house or add a coastal oasis to your home, we have some coastal inspired decor for you from Imagine Home.

Imagine Home, an emerging socially-conscious brand, is dedicated to bringing artisan craft from the developing world to the forefront of design. This unique brand takes product design and partners with artisans in artisan collectives around the world. Women and men whose craft is steeped in tradition utilize their deep expertise to create each unique item by hand. 

In addition to their work with artisans in Mali, Imagine Home has artisan partners in13 countries including Haiti, Guatemala, India, Madagascar, and Peru. Quite notable is a partnership with fair-trade Peruvian artisans to create an elegant and authentic bedding line. These seasoned artisans combine meticulous craftsmanship with organic materials to produce goods that honor the rich textile heritage of their culture.

If you are looking to add a coastal style to your home here are some tips from their founder to help you get started?

“It’s all about the TEXTURE…  From rugs (think Sisal) to Lighting ( sea glass chandilier), a coastal home is a relaxed setting to enjoy the feeling of tranquility at the beach.  Leaving the color palette natural gives you this relaxed feeling. Playing with the texture allows you to build on the design.  Playful motifs such as rope or shiplap often mimic aspects of the sea.  Add in a port hole mirror and you are transformed to the feeling of sailing!  Cotton fabrics are always a must have.  The relaxed fabrics feel more casual and relaxing.  Add in a few Normandy French stripes and your look is complete!”

 

We are obsessed with this line and think it is the perfect addition to any Black Southern Belle beach home from the Gulf Coast to the Lowcountry. Check out a few of our favorite pieces below:

 

1.Lighting 

This African recycled glass bead Chandelier took our breath away. This piece is perfect for your dining room or bedroom and is perfect for a home with high ceilings.

 

 

2.  Wall Art

A simple way to add a coastal touch to your home is by adding wall art. These Anchor Wall Art pieces are any easy addition to a coastal inspired home that won’t break the bank or take all weekend to put up.

3. Bedding

A coastal lifestyle is all about relaxing and enjoying life and getting some sleep. This alpaca bedding will help you do just that. No coastal home is complete without a great set of neutral beddings so be sure to add this to your collection.

4. Seating

If you are looking for a showstopping piece in your coastal home, please consider this striped barrel chair. It has a classic and relaxed look and will make the perfect anchor for any nook or office area.

5.  Dinnerware

Coastal living is not complete without fresh seafood and outdoor dinners. This Haitian Breakfast Set is a nice addition to your kitchen collection.

 

 

 

28265667660_91b9ff9fe4_z

The Story of a FAMU Pageant Queen and Her 5 Places to See in Florida

/ Featured Southern Belles, Supporting our BSBs!, Uncategorized / , , , , , , , / 0 Comments

Today we are featuring the story behind a FAMU pageant queen and her 5 places to see in Florida Kiaira Nixon is a FAMU alum and pageant queen, with a passion for her home state.

This Black Southern Belle represents all the best that Florida has to offer. She has a passion for her alma mater and we are honored to share her story. Read more about this Florida and her 5 Places to see if Florida.

Name- Kiaira Nixon

Title-Blogger, Journalist, Publicist and Executive Assistant

Company/Org– Florida Legislature(E.A), Blogger at ClassnSassKay.com and PR for The Miss Black U.S. Ambassador Scholarship Pageant

Hometown– Jacksonville,FL

Alma Mater– Florida A&M University

Favorite thing about being Southern:

Everything.  The food, hospitality, culture, and appreciation of big hair. What’s not to love about being a southern girl.

What is your personal life motto:

Believe in yourself. Even when no one else does, believe in yourself and your ability to shape your destiny and achieve your dreams.

What is the most challenging professional obstacle you have had?

I don’t have many but I do recall a semester in college when I had a professor who gave me a difficult time. I was overlooked for a position on my university’s news station that I thought I deserved. Instead,  I was selected as an associated producer and studio camera operator. I’m thankful for that experience, because of those positions my writing and camera operating skills have incredibly advanced.

Who is your favorite character on a “Different World”?

Whitley, she’s a true southern belle. One of my pageant sisters said I remind her of Miss Gilbert.  

If you could do any job, what would that be?

I consider myself as a jane of all trades. I could never choose one job however, I would love to be an elected official, own a nonprofit to help women and children. Lastly, a position in fashion journalism.

Who do you wish you could meet?

Michelle Obama, she is the epitome of class. Educated, compassionate for others and an excellent role model. I love her dearly.

What would your best friend say is the best/most annoying quality about yourself?

My best friend said the best quality about me is my stewardship, even as young as four I made it a mission to give back and serve to others. Most annoying – I tend to remember what I want. Guess you can say I have a bad case of selective memory.

What advice would you give your younger college self?

Learn to never settle for anything. Your goals, dreams, relationships, and friendships. Push yourself to your fullest potential.

Where can we connect with you?

Instagram- @Classnsasskay Twitter- @Kiaira_Nixon Facebook- Class N Sass Kay

Blog- www.Classnsasskay.com

Five Places to Visit in Florida

  1. Amusement parks – If you are looking for fun in the sun explore Florida’s Amusement Parks. Everyone loves to visit Walt Disney World but Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and Busch Gardens are great parks too.
  2. Historical Black Colleges – Homecoming, Talented marching bands, and black scholars! The Sunshine State has a rich tradition in southern education and is the home of four HBCU’s Florida A&M University, Bethune-Cookman University, Florida Memorial University and Edward Waters College.
  3. Nation’s Oldest City-  St. Augustine’s history dates back to the early 1500’s rich in history this beach town is a beautiful sight to see. Visitors are encouraged to go to the St. Augustine Lighthouse for an aerial view of the city.
  4. Our Beaches – Fernandina, Amelia Island, Daytona, South Beach, Clearwater, and every little beach town in between offer the finest seashores a belle can ask for.
  5. Wildlife- Before you witness Florida’s famous sunsets you must visit our natural landscapes and met some of our animals. Swim with the dolphins in Fort Myers Beach, fish in the famous Everglades and go horseback riding near the water in Amelia Island.

bts-4 copy

10 Tips for Decorating Your Summer Dinner Party Table

/ Home Decor & Fashion, Uncategorized / , , , , , , , , / 0 Comments

Are you planning a summer dinner party? We are here to help you today with tips from the styling and event planning duo at Sassy La Mode.

This Florida based duo specializes in planning events and know exactly how to plan a Black Southern Belle inspired dinner party. If you have a love modern style and greenery with classic southern bases, be sure to read this article.

Here are the 10 tips you need to decorate your summer dinner party from  Sassy La Mode.

1. It’s all in the details! Come up with a solid palette or theme first. Look for unique decor, vases, and dishes to bring your vision to life and showcase your style

2. Theme: If you pick a theme, stay consistent in your theme it will add to your overall look.

3. Add depth: You can add to the beauty of your table by using varied heights and sizes, to create depth, whether it’s in your choice of candleholders, vases or cake stands.

4. Choose a statement piece: Pick large or standout blooms (always a great statement!) or a unique centerpiece, give your table a special focus.

5. Mix up materials: Combine different textures with your linens, tableware and glassware this will keep the look of your tablescape modern and fresh

6. Change up your flatware: While silverware is the classic choice for most table settings, switching up your flatware can make a big impact. We love mixed metal flatware, copper, gold or matte black for an edgier look or consider mixing vintage flatware with modern tableware.

7. Greenery: At SASSY A LA MODE we love grasses, leaves and ferns. You can set off your floral arrangements by swapping in a gorgeous eucalyptus table runner in place of a linen runner.

8. Add a pop of color! Décor props, stationary, or flowers are a great opportunity to add some bold color

9. Personalize place settings! Your guests will love to sit down for their meal and find their own name on the place setting.

10. Make it your own: If the theme you have for your tablescape has been done before, find a few elements you can incorporate to make the look unique and personal to you.

 

 

IMG_5552

Atlanta Based, Howard University Alum Teaches DIY Style and Home Decor

/ Featured Southern Belles, Home Decor & Fashion, Supporting our BSBs!, Uncategorized / , , , , , , , , , , , , , / 0 Comments

Ever wanted to learn how to be handier or do DIY? Today’s feature is a Howard University alum that is doing just that through her digital brand, The Handy Homegirl LLC. She is a Youtuber and Blogger embracing her love of all power tools and decor. If you are looking for inspiration for your next DIY project or pursuing your dream read about the story of this Atlanta, GA based influencer.

 

Name- Ashley Spearman

Title- Blogger and Youtuber

Company/Org- The Handy Homegirl LLC

Hometown- Chicago, IL

Alma Mater- Howard University

Sorority- Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated

 

Favorite thing about being southern: Well, I’m a born and raised Chicago girl but I have been living in Atlanta, GA for almost 4 years.  I absolutely love showing my family and friends my new sense of southern hospitality.

What is your personal life motto: Create the life you love!

What is the most challenging professional obstacle you’ve had:  The most challenging professional obstacle was starting my blog, staying committed, and consistent.  I have started several businesses before blogging and I always gave up when things got a little tough.  Luckily this time I have an even titanium strength support system that will not allow me quit and I finally love what I do.

Who is your favorite character on a “Different World” Whitley! Definitely. She was posh, strong willed, a fabulous dancer and hilarious. I especially love the meek and mild lovestruck woman she became when Dwayne got her in check every once in awhile.

If you could do any job, what would that be? Easy. Beyonce’s backup dancer. Next question? lol

Who do you wish you could meet? Again Beyonce. If I don’t have a mental breakdown first. #iamastan #andimproud

What would your best friend say is the best/most annoying quality about yourself? My best friends would say my best quality is my creativity and loyalty. My most annoying quality would be my stubbornness and when people text me I look at the text, respond in my head then won’t actually text back for like two days.

What advice would you give your younger college self? Don’t worry girl, it gets better. You are going to graduate even though you think college is pretty hard right now.

Where can we connect with you? You can connect with me on Instagram: @thehandyhomegirl , Twitter: @Handyhomegirl14 and Facebook: The Handy Homegirl

5 Favorite DIY Projects from The Handy Homegirl

The Handy Homegirl is a DIY, Home Decor and Lifestyle Youtube channel and blog. Since 2015 The Handy Homegirl (THHG) Youtube channel and blog has created weekly home improvement tutorial content and has grown an audience of over 8,000 subscribers.  THHG is hilariously entertaining and attracts renovation enthusiasts and home decor DIYers all over the world.  Viewers come to The Handy Homegirl to learn how to build the most creative projects, where to shop, how to find bargains, what items work the best and to get motivated to start and finish their dream home.

DIY Mid Century Modern Desk

 

DIY Bathroom Vanity IKEA Hack

http://thehandyhomegirl.com/ikea-hack-bathroom-vanity-with-bekvam-kitchen-cart/

Loveseat Upholstery

Dollar Tree Decor

http://thehandyhomegirl.com/dollar-tree-challenge-diy-home-decor/

DIY Chandelier Makeover

http://thehandyhomegirl.com/homie-hook-up-diy-chandelier-makeover/

 

LidoPool0317(12)

Pool Party Decor Inspiration in Montgomery, AL

/ Home Decor & Fashion, Uncategorized / , , , , , , , , / 0 Comments

Planning a pool party this summer? Today we have some inspiration courtesy of Hampstead Living.The Lido Pool  at Hampstead is the largest pool in the Montgomery, AL region and boasts a stunning design, spacious swimming and lounging areas, a dramatic fire pit, a venue space that can be reserved for private events, and views of the beautiful Hampstead Lake and green space.

We adore their outdoor and pool area and can’t wait to visit. Get some inspiration for your next Black Southern Belle pool party!

You can never go wrong with Adirondack chairs and a firepit. This pairing of light and dark is a perfect look for your pool decor.

 

Summers are made for relaxing. A beautiful modern lounge chair can add a sleek look to your next pool party.

If your friends are Whitley Gilberts, that means they will likely wear wedges or heels to your party and seating is a must. Multiple seating areas including Adirondacks and couches are ideal. Keep things simple with style so it shows off your guests’ resort wear.

A teak table and a simple candle in a vase are a classic touch for any beach party. You can pick these items up at your local or Target or Home Goods and switch out colors for every party.

A grand entrance for a pool is always a good idea. If you don’t have a brick entrance to your pool think of recreating the style with a faux garden vine entrance.

 

You have to escape the heat sometimes and a large umbrella will help you do just that. This bold blue umbrella is the perfect place to add a pop of color to your decor.

Simple and easy appetizers are perfect for your pool party. Be sure to place them on ice or in your home for guests to access. Using a butcher block or a simple tray is an easy option for displaying for your favorite appetizers.

Want to go all out? Get custom cups and napkins for your party. You can create this look at home by printing your custom stickers and assembling the night before.

 

Lighting your firepit is perfect for a late afternoon soiree. Pair with your favorite drink and appetizer and your guests won’t want to leave.

 

IMG_4738

XOXO Joelle, Southern Style Maven in Charleston, SC

/ Featured Southern Belles, Home Decor & Fashion, Supporting our BSBs!, Uncategorized / , , , , , , , , / 0 Comments

Today we are featuring one of the sweetest ladies I have met in Charleson, not to mention stylish. Ireana Nathan is a southern style maven showcasing her unique viewpoint through her blog XOXO Joelle.

If you love southern style, be sure to follow her blog and Instagram account today. Learn more about this South Carolina Black Southern Belle today and get all the style inspiration you need!

 

Your Name: Ireana Nathan

Business Name: Xoxo, I.Joelle

What You Provide: I’m a Fashion and Lifestyle blogger. On my blog I share style tips, motivational tips and etc. I love bringing others together and sipping on coffee while doing so.

Where are you based? I’m based in Charleston, SC

Why did you decide to start a business? I started blogging because I needed to find a way to express myself. I’ve always been shy and felt as if my voice didn’t matter. I found out that blogging and sharing my story helped me become the woman who  I am today. I also want to be the person that I needed when I was younger. Blogging is more than just taking nice pictures and posting them.

What is your favorite client story? For me I would have to say when others tell me that my blog post or pictures have inspired them. My goal behind my blog is to make a difference even if it’s a small one.

What is your website? www.xoxoijoelle.com

Who are some of your business idols? Claire Sulmers,( Fashion Bomb Daily) Oprah, :Lauren Conrad, Gabi Fresh (Blogger/ Influencer) , Myleik Teele ( Owner of Curl Box)

What is your favorite thing about being southern? The hospitality because I’m big on treating people with love and compassion.

What is your favorite southern dish? Macaroni and Cheese

What is the most important thing you have done to build your business? Stepping out of my comfort zone. Like I stated before, I used to be really shy and wouldn’t dare attend events alone. But since I’ve stepped out my comfort zone I’ve seen a change in my brand and my life.

What are your favorite southern brands? The Tiny Tassel, Lilly Pulitzer, Kate Spade,

What is your favorite item or piece of clothing to wear/use while doing business?  A pleated midi-skirt. It’s just something about a midi-skirt that makes me feel like a girl boss.

 

 

The Southern Beauty of Emanuel AME 1

Must See Images of Black Southern Belle Dads

/ Love & Dating, Uncategorized / , , , , , , , , , / 0 Comments

Everyone knows I am a daddy’s girl and Father’s Day is one of my favorite days of the year. Your father teaches you how to be tough and is the first man you love. He takes care of you and spoils you until no end even when you mother objects. Dads and daughters have an even more special relationship in the South. My dad always finds a way to give me what I want even when he gets in trouble with my mom (long story of XM radio I will tell another day). Even when you get married, they are there to help you and the new man in your life (also buy refrigerators with Keurigs). Southern dads make you feel like you can take on the world and keep you safe no matter how old you get.  Here are a few of our favorite images of southern dads and daughters. Happy Father’s Day to all the dads!

The Southern Beauty of Emanuel AME 8

Had to share my own dad on my wedding day!

 

“Walking to the ceremony and down the aisle with my Dad was surreal. It was calm and quiet and I was able to take it all in. My Dad played a big part in teaching me how to love and be loved while embracing all of the ups and downs that come with such love. Having him walk me to the person that I’ll spend the rest of my life with was something I’d always dreamt of. As my dad and I were waiting outside to walk down the aisle, he reminded me to take a moment to look around and soak everything. Once outside, he whispered “Count all your blessing, remember this moment forever.” I will never forget and will always cherish this moment.”

Images by: Michael Spears Photography, Meridian, MS
Wedding Location:  Collinsville, MS (Private Home)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

H108_42159_ST17h_0020

4 Inspirations for Adding Textiles to Your home from Judy Ross

/ Home Decor & Fashion, Uncategorized / , , , , , , , , / 0 Comments

Looking to add some textiles to your home but don’t know where to start? We have some inspiration for you. Whether you are decorating a large southern home or a compact condo in a big city, textiles are the perfect addition to style any room of your home.

Today we are showcasing pieces from Judy Ross who is an artist turned textile designer. In her new collaboration with Garnet Hill, Judy Ross expands her collection to new rooms of the house – the bedroom and the bathroom.

1)This soft look is perfect for a modern southern home or small space in the city.

2)Use textiles in unique spaces such as baskets and bathroom linens. These are perfect for a beach home as well.

3) Pillows and curtains can add a lot of depth to your room. These bold patterns are perfect accents for a neutral pallette.

 

 

4) Who says neutral can’t be bold? This pattern is perfect for a neutral lover. The combinations of greats, tans and whites are the right mix to add style to a room.

 

EFWE - Edison Guest House

4 Places To Get Married in Fort Myers & Sanibel, FL

/ Love & Dating, Travel, Uncategorized / , , , , , , / 0 Comments

Looking to get married where the weather is always warm? Add Fort Myers and Sanibel Florida to your list. You can never go wrong with southern beach weddings. You can make them as traditional or modern as you like and you are guaranteed to have great seafood.

Boca Grande

Boca Grande, the heart of Gasparilla Island, offers travelers a taste of Florida’s yesteryear. Clustered around the old train depot that brought industry to this pint-sized village, this small, intimate locale has evolved into a playground for discerning travelers. Here, you’ll find popped collars, vibrant patterned clothing (think Lilly Pulitzer), and vintage shops and restaurants. Gracing the outskirts of town is the century-old Gasparilla Inn & Club, which houses a number of unique sites for wedding ceremonies and receptions.

Edison & Ford Winter Estates

The historic Edison & Ford Winter Estates in downtown Fort Myers are the late winter vacation homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. The estate boasts over 20 acres of botanical gardens and nine historic buildings, including Edison’s Botanic Research Laboratory and a museum, which contains an expansive collection of original artifacts – from Edison’s first telegraph and telephone to Henry Ford’s custom-made Model T car.

Useppa Island

Revived in 1976, the Useppa Island Club exudes an old-Florida style of elegant charm and history, boasting picturesque white cottages, pink pathways and lush vegetation. A private island community, Useppa is home to the Collier Inn, which serves as the main clubhouse for residents. Thanks to Captiva Cruises, non-residents can enjoy daily access to this exclusive locale and its unique offerings, whether it’s croquet on the Sumwalt Lawn or a visit to the island’s historical museum.

Sanibel & Captiva Island

The shell-covered shores of Sanibel Island and Captiva Island offer the perfect backdrop for couples looking to say “I do” in paradise. There are a number of hotels on the island with beautiful ceremony and reception sites such as Casa Ybel, Sundial Beach Resort & Spa, South Seas Island Resort and ‘Tween Waters Inn.

ilovechs_teal_home

Etsy Home Decor with Southern Inspiration

/ Home Decor & Fashion / , , , , , , , , / 0 Comments

Looking for some unique pieces to add to your home with Southern flair, Andrea Glover has launched her Etsy shop chocked full of goodies. Andrea describes what inspires her as :

 “I am inspired by the beauty of the south and southern culture. I thought it would be a good idea to have my hand lettered artwork available for those who want a southern touch added to their home. I love being a southern artist who creates work out of the beautiful charming city of Charleston, South Carolina. There is just so much inspiration here. Etsy is a great place for artists from around the world to showcase their handmade items and artwork. For my Etsy store, Letterdecorstudio, customers just download their favorite piece, print and frame. Custom orders are available too!”

 

This low country local is one to watch if you love showing off your southern pride in your home. Here are a few of of our favorite pieces from her latest collection:

 

 

This is a great piece for the Georgia Peach in your life.

Are you a newlywed? Add this to your home for some beautiful inspiration!

Does the smell of salt water and Spanish moss remind you of home? This piece is for you!

Missing those riverboat rides and majestic squares? Show off your love of Savannah with this piece.

Life is always better with Shrimp and Grits. No calories included here 🙂

And of course everyone loves a Southern Belle 🙂

basic_invite_60

5 Tips for Choosing Your Wedding Stationery Powered by Basic Invite

/ Love & Dating, Uncategorized / , , , , / 2 Comments

 Are you a recently engaged bride planning your wedding this year? Are you dreaming of your big southern wedding as a Black Southern Belle bride? Today we are providing you some inspiration for your Southern nuptials.

Stationery is one of the most important pieces to a wedding for a Southern bride. There are so many things to consider and pieces to include. From custom wedding invitations  to save the date postcards  and even wedding reception guest books   and not to mention the  bridal shower invitation   your world will revolve around paper for your wedding. 

When you are looking for stationery here are some tips and tricks to make your experience easier:

1)Color Options – When you first start planning your wedding, you may or may not have your color scheme picked out. You can use choosing your stationery as a great way to decide and finalize your selection. When choosing a stationery provider, make sure they have plenty of options to match your style especially in case you change it as the planning process continues or have different colors for the various events surrounding your wedding. Check out this link to get the inspiration to pick out your colors and if you are Navy/White bride like I was here is one of my favorites. 

Navy/White is my favorite combination and this addition of Blush is sheer perfection!

2)Option to have Custom Samples –  The last thing you want to do is not truly love your stationery, especially after you spend time picking out the colors, shape, size and font and many more decisions.  When you are picking out your stationery you must get a true custom sample. To learn more about the process of creating your custom sample read more from Basic Invite here. 

Be sure to get a sample of each item you want printed to ensure it is easy to read and looks like what you imagined.

You can never go wrong with large and classic font sizes pictured here.

Don’t be afraid to add color with your font on a classic white piece.

3)Envelope Choices– Your invite doesn’t just end with the card itself. The envelope is just as important and if you are like me, you want it to stand out. Get over 40 examples of them here. Order some extras so you can keep them for your stationery collection as well!

Brown Envelopes are a great option for a casual wedding or a beach bride.

Yellow envelopes will be sure to stand out in your guests mailboxes!

Varying shades of blue are a great addition to your envelope package.

4)A Variety of Sets– Are you a bride looking to make things easier on your self? A set is a great way to go. Gold foil is a classic look that you can never go wrong with. Here are a few pieces to get you started?

This such a great soft romantic look.

A maroon and burnt orange collection is a great option for a fall wedding.

Having a modern or minimalist wedding? This set should be on your list.

 

5)Free Address Collection Service –  When planning a wedding, one of the most tedious processes is collecting addresses. Between your family, your groom’s family, friends, co-workers, it can be a difficult task. Be sure to use a tool to make that process easier and also make sure it connects directly with your stationery company. Trust me that you want the invites to be a seamless process. Not just the beautiful looks of the stationery but also the logistics of getting them to your guests, read more about making this process easier from Basic Invite. 

Use your notebooks to write your vows and not collect addresses!

 

unnamed (1)

2017 Kitchen & Bathroom Trends from Kohler

/ Home Decor & Fashion, Uncategorized / , , , , , , , , , , , , , / 0 Comments

 

   Are you a Black Southern Belle looking to take on a bathroom or kitchen renovation? Taking the next step has just become easier because homeowners can now work with a Kohler designer to visualize and create a dream bathroom. Learn more here about Kohler’s Bathroom Design Service and to how to work directly with a Kohler designer. All of them are trained in the National Kitchen & Bath Association bathroom standards and are up-to-date on the latest bathroom design trends.

Before embarking on a kitchen or bathroom remodel, homeowners can determine their style preferences with the help of Kohler, either visiting Kohler online or at a Kohler showroom. This resource can help you get your home prepped as the perfect vacation rental or an oasis for your guests. It is also a great project for newlyweds to do together. Share images of your bathroom renovations by using the hashtag #blacksouthernbelle!

To get you started here, are a few of our favorite tips from Kohler.
All in the Mix
Pattern has always had a place in the home, but a willingness to mix it up and to play with scale in surprising ways is a new twist on a familiar theme. When designing this playful, blue-green kitchen, it’s the pattern play that really steals the show. In the mix is a feather-motif ceiling, a mosaic backsplash peppered with jewel-toned drops, and a quilted, blue-green banquette.What makes it all work together? The color of the counter top, a rich, taupe-brown with copper flecks, because it is not the loudest piece in the kitchen, it brings it together in a harmonious way.
blue and white kitchen decor from Kohler.
           Pattern play can work in even smaller spaces like bathrooms, too. In this master bath that looks truly handcrafted, the mix is bold in scale. Large floor tiles are juxtaposed with oversized botanicals, and are grounded with a calming, soft blue and cream palette on the walls.

 
Classy gold and black design flows into bathroom.
Perfect Pairs
Velvety blues and vivid greens are gaining ground in bathrooms and kitchens today. Pair them with a complementary color and that’s when the real drama happens. So what are some dynamic duos in play today? In a master bath pictured below, the color pairing of marine blue and blood orange is both of-the-moment and classic all at once. Blues are timeless. The vibe becomes infectious with the addition of blood orange—but in small doses. Highlighting traditional details of the architecture with a line, the color draws attention to the room’s tug of war between different design elements.
Patriotic red, white, and blue bathroom decor from Kohler.
           For another striking color play, a pairing of jewel-toned emerald and rich black brings a bit of mystery to what can sometimes be a utilitarian space. In this galley kitchen, a dark accent wall gives depth and dimension to mirroring spans of luscious emerald green cabinets, creating a luxe, moody atmosphere. It’s a bold statement indeed, but the kitchen is sometimes just where a little drama is needed.
This cal, kitchen is decorated in white and sea green.
A Softer White
Never forget: you can’t go wrong with a white kitchen or bath. Trends come and go, but white kitchens are overwhelmingly the most popular. They feel clean and bright. Since it is typically the first place homeowners go in the morning, white makes a lot of sense.Nevertheless, a white room can look clinical—fast—so the challenge is to keep it crisp and clean but still make it an inviting space. One way to soften the look of a white kitchen is with warm tones like brass, gold, or bronze. In this classic galley kitchen, the scheme gives it a modern edge by using counter tops with subtle flecks of gold and brass fixtures instead of nickel or chrome.
All white and gold trimmed kitchen decor.
          Brass and bronze elements brings out those little flecks of gold and reflect a little bit of light and create a warm ambiance without you really knowing it.

Another room where you start your day? The bathroom, of course! This elegant white bath is energized with a modern mix of metals—a bold brass chandelier paired with titanium bath fixtures. Warm wood floors ground the room and soften the look of the all-white space. It’s just enough “clean and bright” for a morning pick-me-up, without jolting you into the day.
neutral white and gold design for classy bathroom.
Keep It in Neutral
If you’re looking for a way to introduce color but aren’t ready to go canary yellow, neutral shades work beautifully in both kitchens and baths. And today’s neutrals play in a more unusual palette than you might expect—think pale icy blue and blush sand and more refreshing straight-from-nature shades than your standard beige. They’re perfect for small rooms. Just because a space is smaller, does not mean you have to use color less, you just have to use it wisely.These more transparent pales diffuse light beautifully and lend themselves particularly well to elements of contrast. In this tiny house kitchen, a matte black faucet and an olive counter top pop against icy blue cabinets.
This kitchen feels like nature with natural wood grain and white.
           In a small powder room on Park Avenue, however, a translucent glass sink in dusky gold and a tobacco tile border make a bold statement against a pale pink backdrop. Neutral and natural don’t have to mean soft.
This bathroom looks luxurious painted in amber and white.
Amber Glow
Let’s face it—the living room has expanded. With comfortable banquettes in the kitchen and easy chairs in the bathroom, we are “living” in every room today, so the more alluring the better. A cozy sultry palette is just the ticket, adding rich ambers and a range of metallics to the smoky grays that have been making their way into the kitchen and bath.In this kitchen vignette, to feel like a space in a little flat in Paris, the kitchen is designed more as a hangout, and less of a kitchen. Antique brass upper cabinets that have natural, inherent warmth, is paired with a bronze mirror backsplash, from top to bottom, that reflects the striking Jean de Merry chandelier. The trick to this look is keeping the space from getting too dark or heavy, so a little glow goes a long way.
Victorian inspired kitchen design with dark color palette.
           The main thing is the reflection, making sure that it didn’t feel bogged down by the color and the texture. And, of course, a moody atmosphere is perfect for a powder room or a master bath. Here in this Victorian-inspired bathroom, smoky grays and dusty browns are paired with a metallic wallcovering and warm bronze light fixtures, giving a glow that radiates through an already welcoming room.
Classic dark color scheme in bathroom for Noir decor.
Noir
Classic black is a perennial favorite in interior design. Once a staple in bathroom design, black has made its way back into this private space and is making its presence felt in the kitchen more frequently, too, especially with the recent debut of black stainless steel appliances. But it’s the emphatic pairing of black and white that is the real showstopper of late. Think high contrast: strong color-blocking, big heavy stripes and even more unexpected patterns. In this master bath, bold chevron floor tiles offset the glossy white tub with a matte black exterior. Highlights of bronze, brass, or copper work particularly well layered into the overall design—here bronze adds a touch of warmth to this dynamic space.
White and black styled bathroom. Clean and simple decor from Kohler.
           In this striking black-and-white kitchen, a wash of bright white counters cover the island and punctuate the grand room sheathed in black cabinets. If you’re an eclectic person, having your kitchen be a solid black and white is important because you may have bright colors that you want to incorporate. The space combines timeless quality with a perfect modern mix.
A natural color palette mixed with plants make this room feel open and classic.
  

 

1 2 3 4 5 >»
© Black Southern Belle 2017
Powered by WordPress • Themify WordPress Themes