{Anchors Away} Summer Market Pics Inspired by Rain & Ocean

Happy first day of June! Can you believe that summer is almost here? I woke up this morning to a dreary, rainy day. So much rain that there have been some floods reported {most notably a flood in Toronto's TTC; Union Station}. But despite the floods, the rain doesn't bother me because I knew that it's helping to rejuvenate and cleanse the Earth. Rain also happens to be a great source of inspiration. I've collaborated these market picks that remind me of summer rains, oceans, beautiful breezes and coastal living. From wallpapers to umbrellas to bedding and home accessories, I've got a little something for everyone! Plus many of these finds are environmentally friendly to boot.

1. Nautical themed design.

2. Organic bedding by Feel More Human.

3. Nautical themed wallpaper from Design Your Wall.

4. Tropical fish vases by Viva Terra.

5. Reusable tote by Nautical Luxuries.

6. Summer shell wreath from Williams-Sonoma.

7. Inhabit Cattails pillow from 2Modern.

8. Anchor umbrella from 2BHip.

Spring/Summer Market Finds ~ The ThomasPaul Collection

Images via Thomaspaul 

 

Bedding ~ Ship duvet cover (in ink) // Elephant duvet cover (in alcazar) // Octopus duvet cover (in charcoal) 

Pillows ~ Nautical // Curiosities // Luddite // Sealife // Fragments // Arboretum 

Kitchen & Dining ~ Placemats // Napkins // Tea towels

What a perfect way to welcome spring and summer into your home than with ThomasPaul's designs. They're cheeky, colourful and perfect for any age. Kids, teens (and adults) will love the animal prints - like elephant, octopus and lion - and older folks will be raving about the more mature collections, like garden, arboretum, Luddite and more. These designs definitely have a sense of the whimsical and are filled with personality, humor and play; perfect for home accents and accessories! I collaborated a few of my market finds and was impressed by the colour options and range of collections. I'm quite fond of the nautical series but am also drawn to the more natural series. Plus the history buff inside of me is quite fond of the Luddite collection. They have items for the bedroom, kitchen and dining room, and even fashion! If you like their designs in your home, you could also wear them (as scarves, brooches and other accessories). What's your favourite piece by ThomasPaul? Cheers to a beautiful weekend! Happy Friday!

Colour Magic ~ Red, White & Blue

Why does the colour palette blue, red and white blend so beautifully together? Maybe it's because red and blue are such strong and complementary primary colours, that when balanced with a neutral and non-threatening white, they create magic. Have you noticed that across the globe, many of the country's colours are red white and blue? (Several countries immediately come to mind, such as USA, UK, Australia, France...) I wonder why that is. The blend of these three colours not only creates a feeling of being proud of one's country but also sparks a nautical feel which, frankly, who can resist? These rooms would be cozy in January yet classic in July. These images were photographed by Stacey Van Berkel-Haines and styled by Margot Austin. I love how the rooms also incorporate pale yellow hues, which aren't too overpowering and reminiscent of soft sunshine or blooming dandelions. Also, the key to this colour palette working so wonderfully in this space is using it in just the right doses. Splashes of blue and hints of red do the trick! What's your favourite thing about this colour palette and where have you used it before?