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Steal of the Day: Anthropologie Spindle Wingback Chair

casasugar — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 04:30:02 -0700

I've had the Anthropologie Spindle Wingback Chair ($1,300, reduced from $2,500) burned into my mind ever since it first made its debut. Actually, I'd come across the spindle/turned wood print in Ilse Crawford's portfolio and emailed her personally to find out where I could get my hands on the fabric. In case you're not familiar, Ilse is the founding editor of Elle Decoration and also a very talented interior designer.

It turns out that she herself designed the print for Christopher Farr Cloth. Anthropologie snatched it up to upholster this classic Queen Anne Chair, which looks scrumptiously comfortable: the ultimate reading chair. The price of the chair has been reduced $1,200 since I
first fell for it. But, although it still makes my heart go pitter-patter, it's probably more economical to reupholster a thrifted wingback chair in the fabric myself. Sigh.

Midday Muse: Saturated Hues

casasugar — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 12:00:35 -0700

I have to say, Anthropologie has a great talent for catching my eye, and this new photo from its catalog has given me serious room-decorating envy. I love the saturated wall colors and the interplay of blue and green patterns, including that stunning peacock sofa. Sometimes an overabundance of color is simply too much for the eye to take in, but this room is, in my opinion, positively splendid.
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Cool Idea: Books As Décor

casasugar — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 11:00:16 -0700

This weekend, when I stopped by the Berkeley Anthropologie, I was pleasantly surprised by the window display. Using old books (I'm hoping that these were books that would've been recycled, not ones that people still wanted to read), those clever Anthropologie folks folded individual pages, and then strung the books through their binding to hang them. They remind me a bit of paper chandeliers.

To get a closer look,

Sale Alert: Anthropologie Home Sale

casasugar — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 08:30:24 -0700

It's no secret that there's a soft spot in my heart for Anthropologie's boho-romantic offerings. My heart is even more happy when these goods are available at a reduced price. I'm definitely in bargain-hunter mode lately (especially with wedding budgeting). I love a good sale, and Anthro sales are always an event to look forward to, since price tags often shrink significantly. Take a look at the widget for some of my favorite things from the latest Anthropologie sale. Anything here that strikes your fancy?

Summer Style: Hibiscus History Placemats and Napkins

casasugar — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 13:00:07 -0700

You can always incorporate Summer Style into your home with color, flowers, and beach gear. But honestly, the only time I ever really enjoy the season is when I'm outdoors. And, what better way to do so than to have a picnic or an outdoor barbecue? Setting a colorful outdoor table is the simplest way to achieve Summer Style, so the Anthropologie Hibiscus History Placemats ($64) and Napkins ($24) are just the thing. Pair them with some barbecue-sauced burgers and simple sparkling lemonade and your July barbecue will be good to grill.

Steal of the Day: Anthropologie Ditte Sofa

casasugar — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 11:00:51 -0700

I've had my eye on this brilliantly printed Ditte Sofa ( on sale for $1,799.95, was $3,498) for many moons now. The adorable fabric design is by way of Marimekko, and the Teflon-coated canvas will help to ensure that any coffee stains or unfortunate wine accidents will wash right out. With a kiln-dried hardwood frame and a polyfill-down blend stuffing, this sofa will be both wildly attractive and wonderfully sturdy. I can just imagine it in a floral conservatory or refined greenhouse, can't you?

Crave Worthy: Cotswold Chair

casasugar — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 08:30:48 -0700

You were understandably enthusiastic about the aptly named Lady Chair. However, I have a hard time imagining those of you who cohabitate with a manly man getting even the smallest, riveted corner of the Lady Chair in your door. If that's the case, then I present you with a testosterone-friendly option: the Cotswald Chair ($1,998) from Anthropologie. With a wide seat, leather whose coloring is described as "bourbon," (it doesn't get much more manly than bourbon), and a mahogany finish, this is a chair that even the most furniture-apathetic man can get enthusiastic about.

Crave Worthy: Anthropologie Lady Chair

casasugar — Fri, 30 May 2008 04:30:40 -0700

Scallops? Rivets? Anthropologie is right on for saying their Lady Chair ($1,498) reminds them of a French Madeleine cookie. All sweets aside, the chair looks très comfortable, and that's what's most important when I sit down to read Victor Hugo or watch Jean-Paul Belmondo on screen. The shell shape of the chair (and Madeleines) would be quite appropriate for the beach, perhaps along with some trendy natural curiosities, but I'd plop this natural linen chair down anywhere in the house. Do you love it?

Nice and New: Anthropologie Fruiteria Lamp

casasugar — Mon, 19 May 2008 07:45:01 -0700

The Anthropologie Fruiteria Lamp ($228 ) is kind of like the love child of your favorite recent home trend and Fruit Loops. While I never was a fan of the sugary cereal, I always had a thing for Toucan Sam and certainly can't shy away from those trendy lamps. So, I had to share this one, which cheerfully recalls citrus shapes. I don't know what it is, but I've recently been so attracted to colorful statement lamps and Fruiteria is no exception. If you prefer to be boring, you can get this lamp with clear glass balls instead — but, at the very least, pick up a patterned lampshade to perk it up.

Steal of the Day: Cleo Chair

casasugar — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 05:30:41 -0700

The Cleo Chair (on sale for $499.99, was $998.00) is cheerily blanketed with buttercups and crocuses, two of the first Spring flowers to break through the snow. The Cleo Chair is a fitting homage to those blooms' cheeriness. With mahogany finish and a kiln-dried hardwood frame, this is a chair that will brighten your day, and that price tag reduction doesn't hurt, either.

This Just In: Anthropologie Commissions Nathalie Lété

casasugar — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 08:31:56 -0700

Anthropologie has commissioned Nathalie Lété, a French artist who works in a variety of mediums (embroidery, ceramics, weaving, textile design, painting, and illustration), and is wildly popular in Japan, to design bedding and drawer pulls. It's no wonder the retailer, which does its best to seem oh-so-French, sought Lété out; her designs are ubiquitous in France, appearing on Designers Guild textiles, Issey Miyaké shawls, touristique postcards, chocolates, and hand-tufted rugs. I'm loving her Treetop Quilt ($248-$26; it's very whimsical and exuberant,
as well as sophisticated despite its light-hearted childish edge.
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Steal of the Day: Anthropologie Mandarin Leaf Rug

casasugar — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 13:00:56 -0700

One of the many reasons I love Anthropologie is because eventually everything goes on sale. Take this Mandarin Leaf Rug ($99- $199), which is now a good 25 percent off. The punches of subdued green, gold, and red in its crewelwork poppies will liven and warm up any 3-x-5- or 4-x-6-foot space in your home in need of a little extra something. I'm thinking it would add a nice folksy touch to a modern kitchen with red lacquer Ikea cabinets or an office with some slick white furniture. What do you think?

Before and After: A Spring Bedroom

casasugar — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 07:45:57 -0700

One of my favorite coveted cribs recently changed up her bedroom over the weekend. Here's the before picture of her bedroom.

To see her subtle and sublime results, just

Steal of the Day: Anthrolopologie Prismatic Chandelier

casasugar — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 06:00:57 -0700

Every time I wander into Anthropologie, I immediately start drooling over their amazing chandeliers, and this one's no exception. The Prismatic Chandelier ($999.95, was $3,49 is made in Italy, and features gorgeous, dripping icicle-like pendants in pretty pastels. This chandelier requires professional hardwiring for installation, and comes with a 36-inch chain. And even though it will cost you an extra $150 in shipping, I'm still wowed by the huge cut in price for this luminous piece. Do you love it, too?

Crave Worthy: Anthropologie Antwerp Chair in Bloom

casasugar — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 04:15:23 -0700

Anthropologie never fails to impress me with their charming furniture selection, always upholstered in unique, timeless textiles and marked by feminine curves. But unfortunately, as much as I still love that blue velvet Amelie sofa, I'm always eager for more furnishings from Anthro, and they continue to make me wait. Well, the wait is over, and Anthropologie has once again wooed me; the Antwerp Chair in Bloom ($1,49 is my latest love. Its fresh floral and colorful upholstery has me raring for Spring, and its curvy lines and carved upholstery give it an elegant air that's dressed for all seasons. Let's hope there's more to come . . . I'm not sure how long this fix will last.

Sale Alert: Anthropologie

casasugar — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 05:15:44 -0800

Nothing empties my wallet quicker than a sale at Anthropologie. The inspiring boutiquey chain store has oceans of lovely home furnishings on sale at the moment, including some I've been eyeing for some time, the Cleo Chair ($499.95), the Timur Lampshade ($69.95), and the Neptune Chair ($149.95). I can see a cobalt kitchen in the making already.

Nice and New: Anthropologie Hardware Store

casasugar — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 10:27:01 -0800

Anthropologie.com has a new tool called the Hardware Store that allows you to test out their collection of drawer pulls in aquatic, glass, or ceramic styles on your choice of four dressers or cabinets, which most resembles yours. We all know how tempting the buckets upon buckets of drawer pulls in Anthropologie's stores can be, so it's a good barrier against unnecessary shopping. In my case, I'm not in the market for any knobs but I must admit this tool is more like a playground than a hardware store — seriously amusing.

Steal of the Day: Anthropologie Crystalline Bathmat

casasugar — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 14:03:07 -0800

Considering that a standard, plain white bathmat usually runs around 20 bucks, I think this Anthropologie Crystalline Bathmat ($19.95) is a great deal. It's hooked on one side and tufted on the other (and claims to be "ultrasoft"), and has a charming green swirling, petal-like design. Along with a feminine shower curtain and some pear-colored perfume bottles, you could usher in a whole new look for your bathroom for under $150.

Good, Better, Best: Triptych Mirrors

casasugar — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 13:00:19 -0800

A while ago, I fell in love with Sfgirlbybay's folding vanity mirror (seen here and here), which I suspect she may have picked up at a flea market. I have since been on the hunt for a triptych vanity mirror, but I've not yet made the final splurge. I've come across several options that fit the bill and that I have mixed feelings about, because a part of me is still holding out for an antique one. I think all three are wonderful choices, if you can afford them. It often surprises me how expensive mirrors can be, though. To see the three choices I've come up with,

Your Favorite Home Décor Chain Store

casasugar — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 13:00:52 -0800

In our Best of 2007 polls, you chose Ikea as your favorite home décor chain store this year. I definitely agree that Ikea's showrooms and design ideas are inspiring, and their prices can't be beat. I have to go with Anthropologie as my favorite home décor chain store, though. Aside from being conveniently located, Anthropologie's window and displays never cease to be breath-taking, their textiles are delightful, and their vast selection of home accents is always unique.

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Deck the Haus: Anthropologie Tree

casasugar — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 14:00:25 -0800

This adorable little Anthropologie pewter tree ($9 features laser-cut partridges frolicking in a pear tree. Look close to see even more details, including fruit, flowers, and even a monkey. I think this would fit in well in the home that wants to display a bit of holiday cheer but not go over the top with festooning the festivity.

Nice and New: Anthropologie Crystal Perfume Bottles

casasugar — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 08:00:01 -0800

Anthropologie has a whole new crop of glam crystal perfume bottles, or Provence Society Perfume Bottles ($18-$3, to house your signature scent or just put on display for their boudoir beauty. I'm aching to have the whole set of them, and display them amongst vintage perfume bottles in my bathroom. Wish list! I'll accept just one or two, if that's all you're willing to give me this Christmas (wink wink).
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Found It! Fleur-de-Lys Glasses

casasugar — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 06:30:44 -0800

Have you been aching for that lampshade you spotted in a hotel on your last vacation but have no idea where to buy it? A side table in a friend-of-a-friend's living room? Let us know and we'll do our darnedest to try to find it for you. And remember, a photo of the item where you originally saw it always helps.

A big fan of any non-souvenir tribute to the wonderful city of New Orleans, I fell hard for these rose-colored fleur-de-lys glasses when I saw them at a local wine bar. Lucky me—I spotted them for sale at Anthropologie ($32 for 4). I love their floral cameo, and that not only is the glass beautifully tinted, but also textured!

Nice and New: Anthropologie Society Candlesticks

casasugar — Sun, 07 Oct 2007 05:52:38 -0700

If you read home design magazines, I'm sure you've seen those pricey crystal ball lamps that are so trendy these days, and maybe you're lucky enough to own one. I personally have not made the splurge, although I've come close several times. So, when I found these Society Candlesticks ($32) amongst Anthropologie's new inventory, I knew I'd found an economical alternative to the beauties I'd been pining for. According to Anthro, these "sparkling stacks of faceted crystal are the life of the party." What could be better?

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Room Therapy: More Affordable Bedframe

casasugar — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 09:30:09 -0700

Welcome to this week's Room Therapy post, where users submit questions and you, the readers, help answer them. The questions can be about anything, from a decorating conundrum in your home to a coveted piece of furniture you can't find anywhere.

Kdupps wrote in saying, "I'm incredibly in love with this iron and brass bed from Anthropologie, and I was wondering whether there were similar beds that were more reasonably priced. Either way, the bed is definitely craveworthy!"

The bed, which is classically vintage in design, has a trompe l'oeil painted brass and a white-wash patina—and it sells for$1,360.00-$1,460.00.

What do you readers think? Know of any similar bedframes? Please let us know by commenting or create Casa Cravings for any products or web sites that you think would help. Just be sure to tag your Casa Cravings with the phrase "Affordable Anthropologie." (Here's a post explaining what a Casa Craving is and how to create one.) Thanks! I can't wait to see what you guys come up with.

To see my suggestion for Kdupps, just

Robert Verdi's Top Five Fall Trends

casasugar — Sun, 02 Sep 2007 09:36:18 -0700

This week's Life & Style magazine checks in with celebrity home-style guru Robert Verdi to get his top five home trends for Fall. With the exception of animal prints — will they ever stop making a comeback? — I'm really excited about all of these looks, especially the yellow accessories.

The Life & Style spreads also features some other must haves; I'm really loving the cheerful citrine Anthroplogie Backyard Wine Glass. Here are Verdi's five Fall trends to watch.

Animal-print pillows and area rugs add a sexy but tasteful touch.
Organic wood baskets are great for stylish storage!
Yellow accessories, like lamp shades and candles, brighten up any room.
Lacquer is chic in small doses and very trendy for fall. Think breakfast trays, vases, vanities, and end tables.
It's all about upholstered headboards, which look softer than four-poster beds.

Casa Craving Challenge: Modern Chinoiserie Bedroom

casasugar — Thu, 16 Aug 2007 05:47:04 -0700

Every Thursday on CasaSugar, I'll give you a decorating theme and ask you to go Casa Craving for items that fit the theme. (Here's a post explaining what a Casa Craving is and how to create one.)

Until recently, chinoiserie was found primarily in stuffy abodes. Now, the European design style, which depicts traditional Chinese motifs, is getting a trendy update. Modern chinoiserie patterns and lines are at once elegant, clean, and contemporary.

Since I've been admiring this aluminum Anthropologie Chinoiserie Bed ( $1,898 to $1,99, I want to see you guys design a modern chinoiserie bedroom around it. So let's all createCasa Cravings for the Asian-inspired patterns and accents you would use to complete the look. I'll feature the results next Wednesday, August 22. Just tag your Cravings with the phrase modern bedroom. Even better, you can create a list of your bookmarks; TeamSugar has a great tutorial on listmaking if you're not sure how. Please let me know if you have any questions. For a list of online home stores to try,

Nice and New: Amelie Sofa at Anthropologie

casasugar — Mon, 06 Aug 2007 09:00:06 -0700

Evoking the charming French film of the same name, this Amelie Sofa from Anthropologie ($2,89 is a deep blue velvet indulgence, made even more feminine by elegant carved white wood. Its design was inspired by a couch found at a Parisian flea market, giving it a romantic old-world charm. What do you think of it?

Trend Alert: Pale Yellow and Gray

casasugar — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 05:15:55 -0700

I love the color combination of pale yellow and gray, which showed up first on the Spring fashion runways before surfacing in the cheap and chic clothing offerings from Delia's and H&M. Even Kate Hudson was spotted in the chic color combo. Now, the subtle but unexpected pairing is coming to your humble abode. Here are four products that play expertly with the gray and pale yellow palette.

This Anthropologie Palm Frond Shower Curtain ($8 would be a great way to add a touch of bright citrine color to a white bathroom.

Three more, so

Trend Alert: Crazy for Cupcakes

casasugar — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 14:05:14 -0700

In case you hadn't noticed, people are totally crazy for cupcakes right now: eating them, wearing them, and constructing them into wedding cakes.

But what most tempts my sweet tooth are all of the adorable cupcake-motif home items available, from subtle cake-shaped votive candle holders to pillows that look good enough to eat. Here are some of my favorite accessories to add some sugary style to your home.

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