HAPPINESS IS...

Pastel Pants

Colored jeans are everywhere these days. I'm especially digging the pastels. But I don't feel right about wearing them until Spring is officially here. That's 36 more days. But who's counting?


{Images 1 and 2 by Ring My Bell}

Fan Club

Oooh, kids, you're in for a treat. Admirers of Busby Berkeley choreography and Ziegfeld Follies will go gaga over "Fan Club", a dazzling fashion film by Ruth Hogben for LOVE Magazine.


{Images via Ravished By Illusions}

Real Pin-Up Girls

Isn't it fascinating that vintage pin-up girl paintings were actually modeled after real women?


{Images via Miss Mabiel by Ukacurl}

A Floral Wedding Dress

An engaged friend of mine is thinking about wearing this floral wedding dress, and although it's beautiful, it didn't seem bridal enough for me. But then I spotted these images of Mary's garden wedding, and how she glows in her vintage floral gown, and I'm floored by how well it works. Can't you just smell the fresh flowers?


{Images by Bec Johnson}

Octopurses

Why hello there, sweet little vintage transistor radio purse. Please say you'll be mine.


{Images by Octopurse}

Cortana Wedding Gowns

It's a good thing these heavenly Cortana wedding gowns are only available in Spain, or else I'd be forced to rob a bank to buy one.

And to be honest, I already have my dress! Well, not in my possession, but it's being made. Hal's mother kindly agreed to help and offered the services of her special seamstress in LA who has access to high quality fabrics. I sent her my measurements and inspiration photos and now I'm patiently awaiting a mock up to try on. It's a little nerve-wracking, being so far away from the action. But I found a local seamstress here who will do the final fittings. For the amount of money I'm saving, it's absolutely worth it. Crossing my fingers that it all works out!


{Images via Simple Blueprint}

Photographic Fashion

I used to have an ocean landscape printed bathing suit. Where did that thing go? Maybe I still have it, but it's probably in storage since my bikinis rarely see the light of day now that I'm in Washington. I always loved it and I'm excited to see the trend popping up in every day clothing. These are from the latest Marios collection. Would you wear photographic fashion?


{Images via Design for Mankind by Kuba Dabrowski}

Geronimo Valentine's Day Balloons

What girl wouldn't want to receive a huge bouquet of oversized heart balloons on Valentine's Day? Hint, hint, Hal.

P.S. Where do I sign up to be a balloon delivery girl?


{Images via Geronimo Balloons}

Lovely Ladies

I adore Emma's Lovely Lady series where she features bloggers and designers wearing one of their favorite outfits. Isn't it interesting how with just one image, you can sort of guess what each person's blog or art is all about?


{Images via Emmadime by 1. Rodellee Bas; 2. Elise Yetton; 3. Miss James; 4. Amanda Jones; 5. Emma Ann Robertson}

My Feature In Dashing Magazine

I received a heads-up tweet from Dashing Magazine that there may be a surprise for me in their latest January/February issue. I immediately clicked the link, flipped to Page 10, and squealed. My blog was featured in their Blog Lovin' section! I poured myself a cup of tea, expanded the pages to full screen, and read the rest of the magazine, cover to cover.

If you aren't familiar with Dashing, it's a brilliant new online inspiration magazine for creative gals. It was started by Charley, Fanni and Josie, three talented UK ladies with backgrounds in styling, music, and design. Their aesthetics and interests are very similar to mine, so if you're a regular reader of Happiness Is, I have no doubt you'll become a fan.

I'm flattered beyond belief to be included in such a beautiful publication. Thank you again, Dashing dolls!


{Images by Dashing Magazine}

Berets

I tried to be a beret girl once upon a time. But it wasn't a good look. After seeing how much fun Carrie has with her collection, maybe I should give them a second chance. Do you wear berets?


{Images via Wish Wish Wish}

Bjork In Her Element

Oh Bjork. You never fail to amaze and delight me.


{Images via Steep Street by Sam Falls}

Outfits Inspired By Dishes

Similar to Monkey In LA's Swell Sip series, That Kind of Woman has started a another fun foodie-fashion pairing called, Outfits Inspired By Dishes that is sweet enough to eat.


{Images via Got A Girl Crush by That Kind of Woman}

Kitty Shoes

I think I've died and gone to kitty heaven.


{Images by Charlotte Olympia}

Pipe Cleaner Crowns

If pipe cleaners weren't invented to clean pipes, I would have thought they were made especially for crowns. I'm thinking these would look adorbs on my future flower girl / ring bearer parade.


{Images via A Beautiful Mess via Sucré}

Vintage Cold Weather Hats

Pointy elf-ish hats from yesteryear that double as scarves. They're sort of nerdy. Where can I get one?


{Images via Johanna Ost}

Bow Tie Neck Specs

I was searching around for some offbeat bow ties for our groomsmen and came across these neck specs by The. I can totally envision Hal's buddies wearing them. Aren't they amusing? 


{Images via Design Milk}

An Outfit To Ice Skate

There's a new outdoor ice skating rink in Seattle that I'm hoping to test out with my honey over the weekend. This outfit is absolutely perfect for the occasion, don't you think? Twirly skirt and all.

Have you gone ice skating yet this winter?


{Image via ModLife}

A Forest Picnic

I adore these shots from the 2nd volume of Kinfolk Magazine. Maybe because it looks like something I'd do. Venture off on my bike into the forest for a pleasant solo picnic by the river. In a gorgeous green plaid cape, of course. Would you too?


{Images via Frolic! by Lisa Warninger}

Bow Tie Onesies

If my brother finds out he's having a boy... guess what he's getting? A onesie with an interchangeable colored bow tie. His auntie will turn him into one dapper little dude.


{Images by The Wishing Elephant}

Joan of Arctic Sorels

Lookie what the cat dragged home! Joan of Arctic boots in the color shale. Not only does my man hook me up with TOMS, he hooks me up with Sorels. Hooray for Evo employee discounts! I've never owned Sorels before, but I've only heard great things. We're supposed to get a nasty winter and I know they'll come in handy.

Do you own any Sorels? Do you love them?


{Image via Free People}

Paper Sack Purses

I've been meaning to post about these paper sack style clutches for some time now. They're made out of suede with a brass snap closure. All your friends will think you're carrying around your lunch, but little do they know...

P.S. They also come in shimmering metallics!


{Images via Today You Inspired Me by Anve}

Clothesline Fun

How brilliant is this concept photo shoot? Stylist, Tiffany Lowry, and photographer, Sarah Rhoads, shot it together in Tiffany's 4x7 basement laundry room.

At first glance, I thought they were engagement photos, but they're not. They should be, right? If you're daring enough to strip down!


{Images by Sarah & Chris Rhoads}

Feline Noir

Where does one find such dazzling cat ear hats? They're so flirty and fun. These shots are from the Feline Noir spread in the December issue of Glamour Spain. Meeeeow.


{Images via FGR by Alice Rosati}

Moniquilla Textiles

Such pretty patterns by Spanish textile artist, Mónica Muñoz. These dresses are from her Moniquilla Autumn/Winter lookbook. I'm super impressed by folks who create clothing out of their own fabrics. 


{Images via Miss Moss by Mónica Muñoz}

Bella's Bridal Gown

I dragged Hal to go see Twilight: Breaking Dawn last Friday. Good man. It helps to have a theater that serves alcoholic beverages directly to your seats 20 minutes in, 40 minutes in, and so on. That's the only way I can get him to see my guilty pleasure flicks.

I have to say, I was very impressed by Bella Swan's wedding dress. She looked so beautiful in the classy Carolina Herrara long sleeved gown, made from crepe satin and French Chantilly lace. It will soon be available in boutiques for a mere $30,000. Thankfully, Alfred Angelo's more affordable replica is being sold for $800.

If I was having a fall or winter wedding, I'd definitely consider this look. But at the same time, I'd probably want to differentiate myself from the gazillion Bella-obsessed fans out there. What do you think of the dress? Would you wear it?


{Images by Alfred Angelo}

Staying Toasty

What are your plans for the weekend? It's so chilly here, it feels like it might snow. I plan on staying toasty by the fire. Hal got me the warmest wool socks from his snowboard shop and I've been wearing them around the house like slippers. Have a cozy, restful time, my friends. Here are your links...

A bicycle bathroom vanity.

Party in a spoon! 

A fun site for all you crafty crafters.

Brooms and mops need shades too.

A very clever cutting board.

This lovely wedding survived Hurricane Irene!

The 15 Friends Project.

An amazing sunken bridge.

Sweet downloadable gift tags.

Who's gonna buy Brad Pitt's Malibu mid-century?

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Red & Pink Together
• A Perfect Vacuum
• Memory Leaves

{Images via Tiny White Daisies}

A Romantic Winter

I don't normally begin celebrating holidays until the previous one has passed, but Ruche's new romantic winter lookbook is pulling at my heart strings. Let's just pretend they're decorating a Thanksgiving tree, shall we?  :)


{Images by Ruche}

Swell Sip: Seattle's Best

My love doves, do you remember the delightful Swell Sip series I blogged about a few months back? Where cocktails and clothing walk hand in hand? Well the lovely miss Eva was kind enough to make for me a custom Swell Sip in honor of Seattle.

And boy, is her creation spot on. In fact, I had this exact drink while wearing a poncho and rain boots the other day. Well not really, but I could have, and it would have been a perfectly normal Shannon thing to do and wear, sipping on hot spiked coffee while staying ever so stylishly warm and dry. Thank you, Eva. Cheers to you, my friend!


{Image by Monkey In LA}

Natural Head Crowns

I'm pretty sure I'm going to wear a headpiece of some sort on my wedding day. Not sure what kind, but I sure am loving Danielle's natural head crowns, made out of dried branches and florals. She says they're "perfect for a special occasion... or just a pretty day".


{Images via Tabitha Emma by Little Birdie Floral}

Rust

 

One of my favorite sweaters is rust colored. That toasty yummy seventies burnt sienna orange-brown. I'm so happy it's coming back into vogue.

P.S. Want to see more colors?


{Images via: 1. No. 6 Daily; 2. Which Goose; 3. Twig & Thistle; 4. Freshly Picked; 5. Because I'm Addicted; 6. Joliejye}

Feather Reflectors

How sweet are these feather reflectors? They're by Finnish designers, Elina Aalto and Saara Renvall. I never knew I needed reflectors in my life until now. Safety first! Or is it fashion first?


{Images via Weekday Carnival}

Our Wizard Of Oz Costumes

We're back from seeing the Wizard! Actually, we never made it to the Wizard, because we couldn't take two steps on the yellow brick road without people wanting to take a picture with us.

Do you like our costumes? We all worked really hard of them and most everything is vintage or handmade. The funny thing is, the casting is right on. We didn't realize it until fully costumed, but each character portrays our individual personalities.

I can't even describe to you how much I love these ladies. Here's why. The day before we dressed up, we arranged a 4-part harmony version of the Wizard of Oz theme song. And a separate fully choreographed dance. Which we proceeded to sing and perform everywhere we went.

Vancouver was an absolute dream. I can't wait to share the rest of our photos with you later this week!

Faux Fur Hats

Mr. Frost made his appearance on the ground this morning. Chill-y. Just in time to try out one of my new favorite trends this season... faux fur hats. Emphasis on faux. 60's Russian style. They make me feel like Julie Christie in Dr. Zhivago.


{Images via: 1. Altamira; 2. Hel Looks; 3. Facehunter}

Vintage Witches

In all my years of Halloween, I don't think I've ever dressed as a good old-fashioned witch. So for my costumeless ladies, enjoy the vintage Hollywood glam witch inspiration. You really can't go wrong with a black pointed hat, fish nets, heels and a broom. 


{Images via Johanna Ost}

Patternity Tights

No, they aren't tights for fathers. Patternity is an awesome brand of black and nude graphic patterened leg art that I must get for my gams. Such fun packaging. Tis the season for tights!


{Images via Seesaw}

Arrow Necklaces

Who wants a little feather arrow to wear over their heart? I do, I do!


{Images via Elle via Digby & Iona}

Costume Hunting

What are you up to this weekend? I'll be scouting around for my Halloween costume. Hal and I will not be dressing up as a couple, as we did in 2009 and 2010. I'll be with my 3 girlfriends visiting Vancouver, BC over Halloween weekend. We're thinking about going as the Wizard of Oz gang. You know, D-Girl, T-Man, S-Crow, and C-Lion. Something similar to these gals, but hopefully better! Have you come up with your costume yet?

Enjoy the weekend links, my darlings!

9 fancy grilled cheese ideas.

A sofa made out of old doors.

Amazing spiral illustrations.

Buy a baguette from a barge.

Clouds? Or dust bunnies?

Metallic elbow patches.

Would you live in a windmill?

A letterpress station wagon.

My new favorite iPad app.

Glitter really should be a color. 

 

And some posts of mine you may have missed...

• Drinking Glasses
• Playing Cards
• Vogue Star Signs

{Image via LA Times Photographic Archive, UCLA Library}

A Pale Blue Wedding Dress

I'm smitten with Erica's angelic pale blue-gray wedding dress. I know nothing about it, other than the fact that it's beautiful.

** UPDATE: Just found out it's by J. Mendel!


{Images by Max Wanger}

 

Silk Scarves

Abstract art? Nope. French silk scarves! Aren't they magnificent? I'm such a scarf girl. They really tie an outfit together. And I love having something soft but lightweight around my neck to snuggle up in.


{Images via White Tapestry by Milleneufcentquatrevingtquatre}

Fashion Illustrations

Kerrie Hess' fashion illustrations are such a delight. I commend anyone who can stylishly sketch humans and make them look, well, human.

P.S. Are any of you watching Project Runway this season? I wish they'd show the designers' illustrations more often, don't you? I have an inkling there might be a direct correlation to those who sketch well and those who end up in the finale.


{Images via Wallspank}

Scarves In The Wind

I too would like to play in a wind blown clothesline of Hermes scarves. 


{Image via Haute Design by  Candace Meyer}

Rain Boot Planters

It looks like Katie took a cue from the runway and turned her wellies into planters. They didn't fit her anymore, so she filled them with potting soil and a cascading plant. Instant yard art.

If I didn't have to use my own rain boots so often, I'd do this too. Wouldn't they add a nice unexpected touch of greenery to an entry way or mud room?


{Image by I Go By Katie}

A Bold Print Dress

If I spotted this vintage bold print dress on the rack, I might have passed over it, thinking it too bright for every day wear. But wow, doesn't Christen look stunning in it? Her boyfriend took these lovely shots on Hilton Head Island in South Carolina. I admire gals who proudly wear statement pieces just because they can.


{Image via La Rue Neuve}

Swell Sip

I've never really concerned myself with wearing the right clothes while consuming cocktails, but my goodness, maybe I should. Eva's fun series, Swell Sip, perfectly pairs fresh boozy concoctions with corresponding outfits. Cheers to that!


{Images via Monkey In LA}

Ulala Collars

Who needs necklaces when you can wear Blanca's handmade Peter Pan collars. Don't they look adorbable with a strapless top?


{Image via Design Is Mine by Ulala}

Mood Boards

I'm giving Maritza a silent blue ribbon for her stunning mood boards. They do just what they're supposed to do. Put you in a mood. In this post alone, I've gone from mourning to wistful to calm to hopeful to inspired to nostalgic. Which makes me happy.


{Images via A Thing For...}

Dapper Men & Dashing Ladies

There are over 241 famous beards, 'staches, and female hairdos represented in the Dapper Men and Dashing Ladies screen prints by HumanShapedRobot for ChopShop. That's a whole lot of cool hair.

Can you tell which styles go with which iconic celebrity? I think I spot Lisa Loeb in there.


{Images via Design You Trust}

Wearing Flowers In Your Boots

Why haven't we ladies used our footwear as vases before now? All the Ashish models wore blooms in their boots on the Spring 2012 runway. I love the juxtaposition of masculine combat boots with the feminine fleurs, don't you?


{Images via Wet Behind The Ears}

Pincurls & A Turban

Swedish artist and blogger, Johanna Ost, always looks glamorous. But she looks extra charming in her retro pincurls and Cecile Melli turban, don't you agree?

I've never worn my hair like this before, but I've always wanted to. You know, just in case a fine young gentleman offers to swoop me up in his vintage convertible for a Sunday drive with the top down.


{Images by Henrik}