Graham & Brown Artisan Range

The colder months turn my thoughts to cosy nights in, perhaps watching the latest blockbuster or catching up with a pile of books.

I'm really taken with Graham & Brown's Artisan range, a rich variety of classic design styles which help to create the perfect setting for a relaxed winter night in. The designs styles have been hand picked by the company's Head Stylist, reflecting seventy years of heritage and a bespoke, luxury feeling. The four design themes- Damask, Floral, Leaf Motif and Stripe are presented in a wide colour palette, with selections suitable for every design taste.

From cool greys to glimmering golds, the Artisan range is perfect for a feature wall, or going all out to make a design statement.

Graham & Brown

Bonjour London, New York and Paris!

London, New York and Paris are three of my favourite cities and with the arrival of the Bonjour New York: The Bonjour City Map-Guides (Bonjour City Guides), a revisit is definitely on the cards!

As portable as a map but as informative as a guide, the hybrid Bonjour City Map Guides provide a refreshing look at this three popular cities. Written by filmmaker Marin Montagut, the guides offer his recommendations for shopping, dining and attractions in each of this cosmopolitan cities.

The pocket sized guides are water resistant and tear proof (perfect for a klutz like me...) and feature rare places that you'll want to visit in a heartbeat. I love to venture off the beaten track, exploring places that locals use and rave about. These Map Guides will certainly be a pick help in tracking down these spots!

From the Monmouth Coffee Company in London, Merci in Paris and the Milk and Cookies Bakery in New York, the Map Guides will be my essential travel item on my next trip!

Check out my Flickr page where you can see photos from my various jaunts to these three awesome cities! 

Kate Spade Furniture Collection

Kate Spade is a go-to destination for many things, and now it seems we'll all be stopping there for furniture!

The brand has just released a collection of home furnishings, and available online, the pieces embody the label's chic and playful spirit. A mix of desk lamps, tables, slipper chairs and mirrors, the colour scheme and designs are quintessentially Kate Spade.

Kate Spade

I'm pretty much in love with everything in the collection...now I just need the space to fill it with! Here are some of my fave pieces:

Worthington Chair

Dickenson Pendant Light

Drake Three Seated Sofa

Downing Desk

Links of the Week

This week I've been reading...

Paris shopping, art and architecture

Advice from Madeline Albright

Useful apps for remote workers

Julia Gillard: from Australia's first female PM to international superstar

White House Week

Dr. Jill Biden gives remarks at a USO Reception at the Naval Observatory Residence in Washington, D.C., Oct. 19, 2015. (Official White House Photo by Chuck Kennedy)

This week, the Vice President and Dr. Jill Biden welcomed the 2015 United Service Organization's (USO) Service Members of the Year, Volunteers of the Year, and their families to the Vice President’s Residence at the Naval Observatory to thank them for their heroism and unending service. A longstanding tradition that honors troops for their heroism and volunteers for their service, the USO Gala is a chance to thank the entire organization for their dedication to strengthening America’s military service members by maintaining their connections to family, home and country. The Gala, held each fall, acknowledges the outstanding achievements through valor, fidelity, and heroism of enlisted military members from each branch of service and volunteers in the U.S and abroad. The Vice President spoke about the honorees, describing how several had saved lives on the battlefield even after being wounded themselves. He pointed out that there have been 2.7 million deployments since the attacks on 9/11, and the USO has served our troops both in combat zones and after they come home.

How did you mark Back To The Future Day? Check out how the most innovative scientists and technologists across government commemorated the cinematic occasion! 

The Greene Door

The Greene Door

Once in awhile, I'll come across a blog that blows it out of the water. A perfect mix of fashion, food and fun, The Greene Door ticks all of my boxes.

Established by the utterly chic Catherine Greene, The Greene Door is a place for people who want to be in the know. A spirited and exciting look into Catherine's life and loves in New York, every post is more amazing than the last! I caught up with Catherine to chat about why she started blogging, what inspires her and what are her hopes for TGD's future.

Why did you start TGD? 

I had the idea to do a lifestylish blog several years ago, but work and life (oddly enough) was so busy, there just wasn't the time for it. I was always drawn to other bloggers that shared similar interests, in style, adventure, sports, theater, arts, etc. and I benefited so much from the information that they shared. I finally decided to take the leap of faith, about 8 months ago, came up with the name and then just started writing.  The references to the word green (ie. Elizabeth Arden's The Red Door, Broadway's The Green Room and The Red Carpet were inspirational innuendo - I love fashion and styling, I am a huge theater goer and I love all things pretty.)  And since green living is all the rage, I had a little fun with it being my last name.  I got lucky with branding it, though, as my surname ends with an 'e.'

How did you select which topics to write about?

I was shopping with my small niece, my running buddy and we landed at Lilly Pulitzer.  I shop and wear the brand, but my niece was not so familiar with their clothing.  When I took her into the flagship on Madison Avenue, her eyes lit up with excitement. It is a small paradise in this hard edged city, and she was so delighted to be there.  She tried on a few of the kids items, and I took some pictures of her.  The sales person asked if I was a blogger and I said no, I was just having some fun with my niece.  And then it hit me, this pretty little child was inspired by an idea that I had, experienced a new form of dress, soaked in all the colorful fun and could not wait to see the pictures of her in her new Lilly togs when we got into the taxi.  I thought it so similar to the reasons I follow certain bloggers.  And so, just like that, and still, today, I write, by chance, moment to moment, about what makes me happy, what I think is a little new and different, what makes my day and work, and how I am so fortunate to reap the benefits of a living a great life in NYC. So I think the topics, like the occasion, just happen.  And then I take a few pictures, get inspired and share.  It is a random presentation, but people seem to like it.

What’s the best thing about blogging?

Aside from being able to get out of my head for a bit, I like the platform very much. There are no demands, or speculation or deadlines.  And, it's not necessary to get attention or to necessarily know who is reading about what I am writing about.  That is a lot of fun, once you let it go, it takes on wings.  People have begun calling and emailing me like crazy about new items they have purchased, events they have gone to, art they have become interested in, races they have run, restaurants they have tried etc- all as a result of reading The Greene Door.  How terrifically cool is that to hear that my journey is now being shared by others.  The ultimate high and I am very humbled by that.

What are your favorite types of posts to create? 

I do enjoy a tiny tale - even if it becomes composing an article about something as small as a particular piece of clothing or an event as big as attending the Papal mass.  When something (or some event) stimulates me, and the surroundings are beautiful, and I think others would enjoy them as much as I do, it becomes less about creation than translation.

What does your ideal NYC weekend look like?

Well I live in town and at the shore, so any weekend will be that much more different, even though it all happens in the same city.  I love a great morning run, along the ocean or across the Brooklyn Bridge, then a brunch date, or a boat ride, matinee or a cultural visit or shopping, and, of course, a great dinner.  I am afforded the luxury of weekend bliss just by living in New York.  There is never enough time to do it all, so I just take it as it presents itself.  (I will say that I don't waste my weekends, ever, on chores!) That seems such a waste, when the days and nights can be so full of life, so magical.  The glorious part of down time in New York is that it is always available and I do try to make the most of it.

What advice can you offer to those thinking of starting a lifestyle blog? 

I know that it has helped me to just write about what I like, what makes me happy.  Everyone's lifestyle is different - in any form, any city any culture.  Those differences are what make for a great read, and they are the very reason that I admire so many different types of blogs, websites, online magazines.  It is wonderful to be transformed, inspired and educated - whatever the platform.  My advice to a anyone that may be interested in sharing - creating a blog is to be generous.  Don't hold back.  Don't be intimidated by naysayers, furled foreheads, negative comments, opinions or analytics. Life is in the living and everyone's life is full of meaning.  I am so fortunate to have a great career that has afforded me much success, and  since I started writing The Greene Door, (and entered into a new online sphere)  I realize the importance of being true to my own mission statement. Honesty in any form, enhanced by a fervor for living a wonderful life, and the willingness to share daily (that can be tough, for sure) is a recipe for success.  And the best part is that it is unimportant if anyone gets any joy out of it, as long as you do.

Which bloggers/sites do you admire? 

I have followed Ariana Huffington, well, forever, it seems.  I was taken on her amazing journey, and committed to reading her thoughts daily.  I continue to read The Huffington Post daily. On a smaller scale, I like Cupcakes & Cashmere and Classy Girls Wear Peals for big fashion blitz and preppy sophistication, in that order.  I also like Design Darling, Summer Wind, College Prep and Corals & Cognac.  I could go on and on, but in being true to the bloggers that kept me interested, kept me coming back and kept me informed, I think that list says it all.  I do read a ton of Broadway blogs, and retailers blogs and restaurant blogs - however, in no particular order.  I think it fun to pay respect to the sites that really are the reason that The Greene Door has gotten any attention at all. These business women, these entrepreneurs also seem to share my core values and are dedicated to writing positive pieces that are classic, fresh and fun.

What are your plans for TGD?

I think since I have opened The Greene Door, and have had a few people take a peek inside, I will just embrace these moments of grace and wait and see what is in store.  Truthfully, I never expected to have as much fun, in life, as I am having today.  Who knows, maybe one day, another woman may be given the good fortune to be interviewed about her work and would include The Greene Door in their list of websites that inspire. Yes, that would be wonderful.

The Greene Door

Givesurance

Giving back is an important part of society, and whether it be financial or through my expertise, the action has always been a part of my life.

I recently learned about Givesurance. Emerging from 500 Startups in October of 2014, Givesurance provides users with the opportunity to receive up to 5% of their insurance payments back as donation credits to participating non-profit organizations like Books for Africa and Operation USA. With Americans spending close to two trillion dollars in insurance premiums each each, if all of the 113 million people in the US who already donate to charity received 5% of their premium back as a donation credit, an additional $100 billion would go towards charities.

Jennifer Rasiah is the entrepreneur behind Givesurance. Her personal story reveals why she chose to create a start-up with a heart.

How has your life experience made you the leader you are today?

Being a Sri Lankan immigrant and surviving a civil war has contributed greatly to my leadership. Life has given me the strength to be autonomous and build my own foundation …  to overcome challenges and be better for doing so. I’ve learned how important it is to stay inspired and surround yourself with people who encourage you to be your best.

What have the highlights and challenges been during your tenure at Givesurance?

The highlights at Givesurance have been working with our partner charities, helping them spread the word and raise money for their organizations and those they benefit. To know that $25 in Givesurance donation credits could provide 100 meals to the underprivileged or 125 books for children in rural parts of Africa is why we began this business in the first place. As far as challenges go, we’re continually adding more insurance carriers to the 250 participating insurance companies currently working with our platform. Doing so requires us to license in new states, which can be very difficult. We’re focused on expanding beyond the 40 states we’re licensed in now, but with intense insurance regulations and various laws from state to state, it can be difficult at times.

How do you maintain a work/life balance?

I work on maintaining that balance, and think everyone should have one, but I can’t say I'm great at it. Luckily for me, my personal passion is my business, and I feel good doing the work we do.

What do you think is the biggest issue for women in the workplace?

The minority of women in business, venture capital and technology is an issue that’s been percolating for years. Surely not a secret anymore, many female advocacy groups have been created to bring equality to the business landscape and erase women’s feelings of being the minority. With the recent study from the Lean In Organization and the McKinsey group, we find women are less likely to advance in their roles — men have a 15 percent greater likelihood of advancing to a new role compared to a woman at the same level.

How has mentorship made a difference in your professional and personal life?

David Kanel is one of my greatest mentors and he just happens to be me ever supporting husband! He has worked with me from the time Givesurance was in its concept phase until now. Ed Roman, one of my advisors, has spent many hours coaching and mentoring me, which has been extremely has been valuable for me and the company. Having both of these role models in my life has helped to maintain a vision for what I love and grow as an entrepreneur. You can’t do it alone, that’s for sure.

Which other female leaders do you admire and why?

Oprah Winfrey & Sheryl Sandberg. I’ve always related to Oprah. When I was young, she inspired me to know that where you came from is not where stay. I, too, grew up poor, but I never saw that as being a constant in my life. Even as a child, I believed in making life better for myself and making a difference in others’ lives. Sheryl Sandberg’s influence has also had an impact on me. The way she talks about the challenges female entrepreneurs face and how she shines light on what we’re going through …  I admire that!

What do you want Givesurance to accomplish in the next year?

We’re focusing on partnering with even more charities to generate awareness. If all U.S. households could get 5% of their insurance payment back as a donation credit, more than $100 billion would go toward charities. We want to spread the word to as many households as possible.

Givesurance

HillYes

The race for the Presidency is in full swing, and with it comes a whole host of merchandise options. There are some awesome options available on Hillary Clinton's official campaign store, and HillYes has some amazing choices too!

If you're in the market for a witty (and collectable tee) check out these choices below!

Available in tee, tank and racerback styles, consider adding one of these designs to your closet! 

Links of the Week

This week I've been reading...

Queen Elizabeth tells man she can't take the USA back

Sartorial subtext in the Democratic debate

How to write a novel and keep your day job

White House Week

Can you help locate the Declaration of of Sentiments? Drafted in Seneca Falls in 1848, the foundational document for women's rights is missing. Not in the Library of Congress or any other archives, the White House is taking to social media and the internet to locate the document's whereabouts. Have a tip or an idea as to where the document is? Click here to share or spread the word on social media using the hashtag #FindTheSentiments.

Earlier this week, the White House played host to another concert in the In Performance series. A Celebration of American Creativity featured performances from Carol Burnett, Usher, and James Taylor. Watch the President's remarks below!

Plus, I am loving Michelle Obama's LBD and statement belt that she wore to the performance!

Halloween Treats

Can you believe that Halloween is almost here? Yikes! If you're planning a Halloween party, get-together or a spooky film night, check out my Halloween Pinterest board for some great entertaining, food and decor ideas!

               Follow Laura-Emily Dunn's board Halloween Treats on Pinterest.    

Women and Girls Lead Global

Gender equality is a goal that we should all continue to advocate for and work towards. Women and Girls Lead Global, a public-private partnership between ITVS, USAID and The Ford Foundation is doing just this. A 21st century media strategy to promote gender equality and women's empowerment worldwide, Women and Girls Lead Global combines world-class documentary films, television partners and local engagement campaigns to impact communities around the world by supporting ongoing NGO efforts to lift up women and girls.

ITVS

Working in countries including Kenya, Jordan and Peru, the organization produces a 10 episode anthology series of documentary films, bringing compelling stories to millions of television viewers.

Gathering people in villages, slums and crowded classrooms, stories are shared and imagined solutions are leading to real gains – from accessing education and leadership opportunities, to reducing child marriage and gender-based violence.

ITVS

Find out how you can get involved with Women and Girls Lead Global and support their important mission by visiting their website.

Juice Beauty

Juice Beauty

As I get older, I definitely find myself taking more care of my skin. I admit I used to be really lazy about removing make-up at the end of the day, enjoying the secret thrill of going to bed with my mascara on just because it was so naughty.

I'm now much better behaved, and clean my face every night using a proper routine. I've just started using products from Juice Beauty, a brand which is committed to using certified organic ingredients high in antioxidants. The brand also counts Gwyneth Paltrow as their Creative Director, Makeup.

From cleansing oils to boosting serums, Juice Beauty's products are good for the skin and good for the soul. I now actually look forward to my evening routine, and giving my skin a nightly treat thanks to the range of gorgeous organic products.

I'd love to know about your nighttime skincare routine. Which products do you use and how did you create your skincare schedule? Share your thoughts with me in the comments below.

Thanks to Juice Beauty for sending me the products to try! 

Links of the Week

This week I've been reading...

12 female badass scientists

The question at the heart of The Good Wife

Don't give up the fight- Meryl Streep

White House Week

This week, the Obama Administration launched 'Stop the Bleed,' an awareness campaign to provide people with the tools and knowledge to stop life threatening bleeding in the event of an emergency situation. Working with the private sector, nonprofit organizations, and the medical community, the "Stop the Bleed" campaign will put knowledge gained by first responders and our military, into the hands of the public to help save lives.

So, why is bleeding the trauma you need to pay attention to in an emergency? Severe bleeding can lead to death in five minutes or less. A victim can bleed to death much faster than trained public safety personnel can arrive. The person standing or sitting next to that individual may be the ONLY one who can make the difference between life and death.

The First Lady honored the 2015 class of the National Student Poets Program at a ceremony at the White House. You can watch the video of the event below:

Fashion Spotlight: Thursday's Child Design

I love to support local designers, and when I met Emma Jones earlier this year I knew you'd want to meet her too! Emma is a freelance designer and maker based in Cardiff. Having studied Costume design and working behind the scenes in television and film for five years, she recently founded Thursday’s Child Design, a clothing and accessories label. Specialising in hand made, short run pieces, Emma's designs are quirky and full of fun!

Check out Emma's insights into the design process and what inspires her. Emma is also giving away one of her clutch bags to a lucky Political Style reader! Read on for the details...

What’s your background in design and fashion?
I actually come from a costume background! I studied Theatre Design at the Royal Welsh College in Cardiff, specialising in costume design and construction, and from there I went on to work on a few different films and TV shows- ranging from Dr. Who to a Mumford and Sons music promo, which gave me the opportunity to travel and have some amazing experiences!

Why did you want to start your own business?
I have loved my career so far, but the creative element is often guided by someone else’s (primarily the Costume Designer’s) vision and ideas. I have always had a million and one things that I have wanted to design and make for myself, so I decided that this would be the year I put those ideas into action! I have always worked freelance so had some idea of what I would be getting into, but taking the plunge felt like a huge step!

Tell us about Thursday's Child Design and why you chose this name!
Thursday’s Child Design is based around handmade clothing and accessories, which are created in limited runs, from materials I have picked up on my travels! A lot of the pieces are one of a kind, made from fabric that I had to buy  when I was in America/Australia/Europe… The element of uniqueness is something that I love about the brand, and where possible I try and make sure I’m using materials that are sustainable- if I’m not using something I bought when travelling, it’s usually something that I have upcycled and printed myself.

The name comes from the fact I was born on a Thursday (surprise!), and was suggested to me by my Mum. She always liked the poem that corresponds to the day a baby was born on, and thought “Thursday’s child has far to go” could be a good omen for the business!

What have been the highlights and challenges?
The highlights were definitely opening my ASOS Marketplace boutique, and hearing customer’s feedback at markets. It’s really rewarding to hear that someone really likes what you have spent a long time designing and making! Another positive is all the lovely people I have met along the way- other people in the same position have been so supportive and forthcoming with helpful advice!
The challenges have included being organised! As a creative person, organisation does not come naturally to me, but I really wish it did!! I’m getting there though… I’ve also found it difficult to be able to spend as much time on the business as I would like to be able to, but I’m hoping one day it will be my full time job!

What advice can you offer those who want to start their own fashion business?
You really have to love what you want to do to make it work. It really helps on the more difficult days to know that you’re doing something you love, despite the day you’re having! I would also recommend maybe doing a short business course so you have an idea of what you need to do. I actually did one with the Prince’s Trust, which was really helpful.

How do you maintain a work/life balance?
I currently find it really hard to switch off from the business- I’m constantly thinking about what I want to do and what I need to do! I think because I have taken a hobby and turned it into a business, I have had to find new ways to relax, but going to the gym or just getting out to see friend’s for coffee definitely helps when you need some time out!

Who would be your dream customer?
Florence Welch! I love her eclectic style! Or maybe a store like Anthropologie- I’d love to see Thursday’s Child Design stocked there one day!

What do you want to personally and professionally accomplish in the next year?
I’d love to have more chances to travel, that’s always on my list! In terms of the business, I’d just like to continue growing it and developing my ideas. I’d love to be stocked in more stores across Cardiff and Bristol. One of my main goals is to be able to donate a percentage of the profits to a nominated charity each month, but I’m not quite there yet.

Emma is also giving you a discount code for 20% off any order in her Etsy or ASOS Marketplace stores! The code is LED20 and is valid until 31/12/15. It's the perfect excuse to do your Christmas shopping!

Enter to win this chic neoprene leopard clutch using the widget below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tetbury with Lorfords & The Antiques Diva

Last weekend I took a trip to the Costwolds. About an hour away from home, I travelled to Tetbury. Well known for its many antiques shops and the country residence of Prince Charles, Tetbury is the perfect place to explore the beauty of the past and plan for the future.

Invited by Lorfords and The Antiques Diva, my break started at the amazing Calcot Manor. If you are looking for a country getaway then this is the destination!

Exploring Lorfords was the highlight of the trip. If every antique tells a story, then Lorfords is the only library you'll ever need. From 19th century bureaus to architectural garden items, Lorfords is a treasure trove of the best sourced and high quality items. The shining jewels in the Lorfords crown are the two old WW2 hangers located just outside Tetbury. Driving up a dusty track road was like something out of a movie, and I half expected a plane to come flying overhead!

Piled full to the brim with out of this world antiques and rare items, every piece was more stunning than the last. I was particularly taken by a huge breakfront bookcase and oversized wall clocks. At the hanger I was able to meet many of the dealers who participate in the collective, hearing their stories of how they started out and how they source their items. It was an incredibly fascinating experience.

I'm no antiques expert, but with an appreciation for luxury items and the finer things in life, it was fascinating to hear and experience how the business works. If you are looking for a unique piece for your home or want to dip your toe into the antiques market, make a trip to Tetbury and visit Lorfords on your first stop.

Thank you to Toma, The Antiques Diva and Toby, Lesley and Jo at Lorfords for a fantastic trip!

Some of my favourite pieces in the Tetbury shop! 

Trip to Tredegar House

The magnificent Tredegar House sits on my doorstep, and it's a pretty good neighbour to have. A few weeks ago the National Trust held an open day, and it was the perfect opportunity to re-explore this Welsh jewel. Check out my pictures below!

A great place to stop and think. 

The last signs of summer.

Digging this dishware.

I love that the deer has a choker going on! 

Ode to the Tudors.

Original wallpaper from Lord Tredegar's study. Reminds me of an AERIN print!

A perfectly vintage Louis Vuitton trunk.

A mix of coral, shells and starfish in a bathroom display.

I do love a good monogram.

Tredegar House is a great place to spend an afternoon! 

Links of the Week

This week I've been reading...

The power of a post PM career: Fierce Julia Gillard cheered alongside Michelle Obama

Stop Googling: let's talk

You're not too tired to create- you're too distracted

White House Week

via

This week, the First Lady launched #62MillionGirls. The campaign highlights the number of girls across the world who do not have access to education, and you can show your support by sharing a photo on Twitter and Instagram and say what you learned in school by using the #62MillionGirls hashtag.

Check out mine here! :) 

The United Nations General Assembly took place in New York this week and the discussion of diplomacy was on the table. Check out President Obama's address below.