Featured Post: California Glamour

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Yesterday, I had the honor of being featured on LDV with this post. Here is the post in case you missed it...When I think of California, I think of large estates set on perfectly manicured lawns, stylish women dressed in stunning outfits, and views of mountains and pristine beaches. (ABOVE) Designed by Warren Callister on Belvedere Island, this stunning California home has views of the Golden Gate Bridge.  The landscaping gives the home an intimate feel. The mansard roof was a great choice as it plays up the home's elegance. (BELOW 1) Nestled behind trees, this modern home is located in Santa Barbra. It has a very 70s inspired architecture, very modern California glamour. The landscaping surrounding the home stays in line with the home's modern architecture. It's clean, simple, and well maintained. (BELOW 2) This European inspired villa is located in Holmby Hills. The front doors are absolutely stunning. The black stands out against the limestone facade. I love the tree in front of the left window. It has such an unusual form and makes a big statement as people come to the front door. (BELOW 3) The backyard of this Santa Barbra mansion is breathtaking. The many boxwoods create a nice "fence" around the pool which has sweeping views of the sea. I could see the most glamorous photoshoot taking place here. Which estate is your favorite? 

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(1) Milly Joselyn Beaded Dress, (2) Philosophy Di Alberta Ferretti Jeweled Collar Sweater Dress, (3) Noir Jewelry Neon Crystal Pendant Necklace, (4) Alexander McQueen Metallic Two Tone Sunglasses, (5) Anya Hindmarch Valorie Clutch, (6) Elizabeth and James Paige Flat Metallic Sandals

The Fashion: For the looks above, I was inspired by both Malibu and Beverly Hills. The beaded Milly dress could be worn for a stroll with your loved one on the beach or to chic restaurant in Beverly Hills. The Noir necklace has both a casual vibe with the robe chain and formal vibe with the crystal pendant. It's the perfect Malibu-Beverly hills inspired piece. The Anya clutch is just the right amount of sparkle for you outfit. A little black glamour? Which piece is your favorite? 

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(ABOVE 4) The Mediterranean Revival, Hearst Mansion located in San Simeon, has sweeping views of the mountains and shore. The home was designed by architect Julia Morgan who had originally planned to design a small bungalow for William Hearst. After a month of discussion the decision for a small bungalow grew into a large scale castle. What are your thoughts on the Hearst Castle? (ABOVE 5) Designer Kelly Wearstler is well known for her love of Hollywood Regency. This fantastic sitting area has all the elements for California glamour. How amazing is that large sculpture to the far right? I love all the stone! What do you think of the Kelly Wearstler space? 

A Well Traveled World

http://www.katerentz.com

I have a bit of a weak spot when it comes to travel photography. Kate Rentz's photographs of her international travels are making me beam from cheek to cheek! Looking through her photographs, I literally feel like I'm in a different part of the world for a few seconds. The Ohio-born, California-based girl photographs not only travel, but also fashion, lifestyle, portraits, etc. (ABOVE) The country of Argentina is gorgeous. The picturesque mountains, crystal clear blue water, and white sand beaches are making me crave for a beach getaway to the country right now! 

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(1) Big Sur, California. Look at the mountains for a second. Don't you feel like the rest of the photograph would just be desert? The amazing blue color of the water stands out against the very martin like mountains.

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(2) I wish I knew where this photograph was taken! I did a post on the Grand Canyon a little while ago and this photograph gives me that vibe. What I find particularly beautiful about this photograph is the vastness of the landscape, cloud shadows, and the different variation in colors of the mountains. Can I say colorblocked? 

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(3) This looks like it was taken in the good old South West, any ideas? I'm not an avid camper, however, I'd consider camping more often if the camp grounds had views like this.  

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(4) Desert vibe. I feel like we're in Arizona here? The way in which this photograph was taken looks like Kate was on the road. Makes me sort of want to go on a road trip. 

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(5) Every good traveler has got to have a travel journal. I have a good feeling my journal would start with words and quickly change into architecture, design, and fashion sketches. 

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(6) Finally, a photograph with a location! A volcano in the gorgeous Costa Rica. Costa Rica's beauty lies in it's lush landscapes. What a place to explore some forests, perfect place to whip out your designer boots (hehe). 

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(7) Guess I spoke to soon! This location has a Northeast feel, any ideas? I really like the look of moss growing on the trees. Can I just say, sledding here would be quite the challenge! 

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(8) Death Valley, California. This is one of my favorite of Kate's photographs. It's so eerie. It's such a simple shot, yet says so much about the landscape. Doesn't seem like much of a place to explore! What do you think of Kate Rentz's photographs? 

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A Week In The City: Los Angeles Area

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My newest series "A Week in the City" takes you to some of the best places to travel to, where to stay, eat, and what to pack. The Los Angeles area of California is one of the most beautiful places in the world. From the beautiful, warm weather to the many eclectic places to stay and dine, it's a place that has attracted many people and will continue to do so. (ABOVE) I fell in love with this vintage photograph of cars driving in L.A. From the palm trees in the background, to the classic cars in the foreground, it embodies the California lifestyle.

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(1) The Los Angeles area is very hilly, because of this there are many gorgeous views. This view taken from a higher elevation close to L.A, shows the beauty and size of the city. Many celebrities have home's overlooking such views! I could definitely get used to this. 

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(2) The Mr. C in Beverly Hills is one of the best boutique hotels you will find in the Los Angeles area. The hotel features a pool, restaurant, and spa. The exterior of the hotel is very 60-70s California. It's modern, yet has a few subtle classic elements. 

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(3) One of the suites at the hotel. The guest rooms range from 365-1165 sq ft, each of the rooms has a private balcony overlooking Beverly Hills, and Los Angeles. In terms of the rooms design, I love the rich leather texture and the use of metal. It's a very rich looking space, however, it still feels fresh and laid back. 

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(4-5) Mr.C hotel also has a pool! Though it's not very large, it's still a great space to unwind and have a drink at. I love the different colors used throughout the space!

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(6) I really like the blurred backdrop here. A very elegant, yet fun entry space. What do you think of the hotel? Have you stayed here before? Let us know in the comments!

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(7) Baco Mercat is one of the best restaurants in L.A. They serve a classic American cuisine. The best part is their super affordable price point. I love the look of the restaurant from the exterior. It looks super inviting! Amazing brass door.

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(8) This is one of the meals survived at the Baco Mercat. My mouth is literally salivating.  I wonder what kind of sandwich this is. Any ideas? What do you think of this meal? Would you eat here? 

 

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An Exquisite California Estate

http://www.christiesrealestate.com/PropertyDetails/113097/998182/7071/27#113097/998182/7071/27

Nestled behind beautiful trees, sits Chiltern, an estate located in Hillsborough, California. If you have a spare 43 million, it can be yours!  The estate is situated on more than six acres with 60-year-old gardens, a 50-tree orchard, and has 36,000 square feet of living space. (ABOVE) As you make your way past the iron gate, you will be greeted by a piece of art. Even though this home was built in the 1990s it has a beautifully old quality to it. I love all the trees and I find the home uniquely its own. (BELOW 1) How could you not want a front gate like this? It has a very elegant and stately presence. I have a good feeling no one will be breaking in! (BELOW 2) If Tennis is your thing, this estate has one to remember. Well manicured, and with a brilliant stone wall, this court is gorgeous. (BELOW 3, 4, 5) The gardens of this estate are stunning. Rose gardens, and mazes, give this home a vacation feel. (BELOW 6) I like how the shrubs are placed in wood pots. It allows the shrubs to be easily changed. 

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Moving In: Villa Labarba

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How amazing is this California mansion? Well, I think it's just fab! This over 12,000 sq ft house that sits on over an acre of ocean front property is an incredible place to live. The home was built in 1997, and has many classic California design embellishments, yet still feels fresh and clean. (ABOVE) The center motorcourt is a classic feature. Love the clean, front facade as well as the boxwoods that surround the house. Every classically designed home needs a fountain. I love that the fountain is surrounded by some pink flowers.     

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(1) The views are the highlight of the property. Waking up and walking around such beautifully landscaped grounds would be truly amazing. I like how the water from the upper level fountain spills over into a collection of smaller fountains running toward the ocean. 

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(2) The back of the home is as beautiful as the front of the home. I love the hedges, and center fountain. The back of the home screams traditional, with a touch of modernity. The terrace just off the main house is the perfect place to entertain. Beautiful architecture and views of the ocean surround you!

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(3) A long slide carries water from the upper level fountain to the lower level fountain. This idea is a more environmentally friendly alternative, which is always a good thing! I could see myself laying on one of those blue outdoor sofas and looking out at the ocean and sandy beaches. 

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(4) The property features a garden space. I recently started learning some tricks when it comes to planting and gardening. I love having a garden in the back of my home and would die for this large one that overlooks the water. What do you think of the home? Would you move in? 

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