By the dawn's early light

"Oh-o, say can you see, by the dawn's early light..."

The opening lines of our National anthem, although not the most descriptive of the poem by Francis Scott Key, have always painted such beautiful colors in my mind.

This morning, after nights of interrupted, restless sleep, I awoke with the very start of the dawn, when the sky is just slightly bluer than the black outline of the trees outside my window. I watched the sky lighten and brighten for over an hour, feeling a mixture of contentedness and inflamed inspiration, so fortunate to have witnessed the magic of an uncontrived beauty in our often over-processed and manufactured world.

At one point the thought to grab my camera flitted by, but I made no move to retrieve it. I suppose I knew subconsciously that any attempt to capture the colors, the mood would be nearly impossible; it was as if the dawn had been painted for me in that moment, only those moments, exactly as it was supposed to be seen.

I suppose I could attempt to describe the colors to you, Reader, the darkest of navy, the richest of cobalts, the truest cerulean, the lightest blue-butter-cotton sky, but such injustice I would do to you and the glory witnessed. My truest and best advice: see the dawn on a clear Spring morn, and hope to be as inspired as I.

"My profession is to always find God in nature." - Henry David Thoreau

"This is the true joy in life - being used for a purpose recognized by yourself as a mighty one; being thoroughly worn out before you are thrown on the scrap heap; being a force of nature instead of a feverish selfish little clod of ailments and grievances complaining that the world will not devote itself to making you happy." - George Bernard Shaw

Fighting the Fear of Color

For the last year, whenever I shop, I have been repeating my three-part mantra, "Color. Pattern. Texture."  Whether I am looking for shoes, a sweater, a throw pillow, a wall color: queue the mantra.

"Color. Pattern. Texture."

I was inspired by a Facebook status update by a friend to write today's blog.  How exactly do we do incorporate bold, bright colors and patterns into our lives without either being overwhelmed or looking like a clown?  My advice? Small doses.

More than anything I want that magazine-ready living room, complete with unique eclectic pieces that don't match but seem to all "go". I want to stop envying that woman who walks boldly by wearing a super chic outfit as I watch from the food court in my frumpy jeans and drab sweater. I don't want to be afraid of (say it with me now) color, pattern, texture.

So, slowly, I have taken the first steps towards a brighter, more interesting take on fashion, decorating, and even eating.  Hey, I figure if more color is good for the outside of the bod, it's got to be good for the inside, too, right?

Here are a few of my favorite clothing items for every budget to help you (and me) face the fear.  Of course there are lots of other options, so be bold and grab a fun new item today!

Under $50

Color: Steve Madden Belted Trench (O.co)

When the  day is cold and gray, you'll look red-hot in this bright belted trench, flattering on almost every body shape!

 Pattern: H&M Floral Cardigan

At only $24.95, this cardigan is a chic and affordable way to add cool retro-inspired pattern and a pop of color to your wardrobe in one great piece.

Texture: Giambattista Valli Tights (Macy's)

These textured lace fishnet tights are a fab way to extend your summer wardrobe throughout the fall and winter seasons.

Under $100

Color: Kate Spade Necklace (endless.com)

Add this bright citron-yellow necklace to take a boring tee to the next level from drab to fab!

Pattern: Green Paisly Print Dress (Macy's)

All-over print and a flattering design make this dress a winner for everyone.

Texture: Ruffled Bag (Piperlime.com)

This ruffled bag is a great way to add texture to your everyday look without feeling overwhelmed by super-bright color.

Over $100

Color: Palm Desert Flared Pants (Nieman-Marcus)

Bright, yet easily paired with simple blouses and sandals.

Pattern: Floral Print Dress (Bloomingdales)

What better way to add pattern than with a lovely floral print?  Other than stripes or plaid, the most classic and timeless pattern of all.

Texture: Pleated Tea-Length Dress

Love this simple and elegant way of adding a little texture and a whole lot of drama for a special night out!

The All-in-One

Color, Pattern, and Texture all in one great pair of heels!  My top pick because it covers all the bases, and I can wear them to dress-up a pair of jeans, paired with a simple black dress for evenings, or with nothing at all!

 *I haven't included a ton of plaids and stripes just because they aren't right for my body shape, but that doesn't mean they aren't for yours, so go try 'em too!