Linking Beauty

Sometimes you need a reminder of how beautiful everything can be. Going through the movements of a busy life can be hellishly dull. When I need a refresher, I immerse myself in light and color. When I can't do that (ahem. January and February, I'm looking at YOU.) I go elsewhere. Here are my most recent favorite links to soak up something beautiful, and feel ready to brave the gray winter.

thebloggess.com : both hilarious and insightful

The Bloggess - specifically her discussion of the Traveling Red Dress. It's utterly impractical, but that's what makes it wonderful. You can't feel bad about yourself in a ballgown, people. 

The Beauty Department - I am totally not this type. I think I've worn lipstick in public twice in my life (still working up the courage). And if I blow-dry my hair, it's a big day out. But I like the ideas, the colors, the patterns, and the tips on healthy hair and skin, and the beautiful braids. My hair happens to be the longest its ever been in my whole darn life, so it's been fun to experiment with all the braiding recipes that the internet has to offer.

A Cup of Jo - Joanna Goddard is a real-live writer, as well as a blogger. She writes about all different kinds of happies, including vintage photographs, interior design and fashion, and living in Manhattan (sigh). And while the content is good, I really love her aesthetic - too many designers have descended into white-walled blandness. It looks clean, but is hardly realistic and certainly not lively. Besides, if I tried for a minimalist white schema, it would be a coffee-splattered schema within a day or two. Her photos and writing are just full of energy.

Roost - A former Seattleite moved home to Alabama, she cooks to suit her husband's very restrictive diet, and makes it seem more lavish than anything I could concoct with full access to all grocery aisles. I am charmed by the rustic, earthy vibe combined with eloquent quotes or bits of poems. And while many food bloggers get away with posting mediocre recipes with fancy photos, I can attest to the magnificence of her honey carrot cake with coconut cream frosting. Karma can too. *ahem* 

Miss Moss - A vast gallery of collected things which are artsy, unusual, quirky, funky, colorful, weird, and wonderful. This is an uber-dose of beautiful.

Tattly - "Designy Temporary Tattoos." For someone who will probably never get a real tattoo, these are totally fun to play with. No regrets needed.

Anthropologie - This is where I go when I've got the "mean reds." Preferably, the brick-and-mortar store, where the prices are much less apparent. I don't really like the company or the people there, but as long as I'm left alone to browse and wonder, the aesthetic just makes my heart sing. 

Happy winter! How are you getting by with these gray days?

Daisy