Christina Elaine

Outfit of the Week... Florals on the botton

2012-02-10T07:51:00.000-08:00

I love all the bright colors and florals that have been making a strong presence with all the spring merchandise in stores. The question is how to apply the above floral runway look to everyday wear. The goal is to not look like a big flower blimp(if you are not a sample size) or your great grandmother's dining room drapes. So my solution is to pick a simple accent of floral fabulousness bottoms, top, bag, or shoes but don't go into overkill.

For this outfit I chose some amazing d&g pants and paired it with neutrals except for the solid color pink bag. Now all I have to do is search H&M and every other mass discount retailer for some amazing floral botton and a relaxed blouse.

xxx
CEO

Black, Tan and Coral Colorblock

2012-02-07T13:52:00.000-08:00

Jacket Zara, Pant Old Navy, Top Forever 21, Undershirt Galmourmom, Shoes Target, Bracelets David Yurman

This weekend we took a quick jaunt to San Diego and this is what I wore to brunch to see an old college roommate. I enjoyed the color play with corals, blacks, and tans.The shirt, blazer, and the necklace all color-block to the lovely tan mary-janes. I have been enjoying the color black for figure flattering purposes. But things in that department are getting back to normal now that Axel is a whopping five months old (where oh where has the time gone). I had so much fun at the SoCal blogger meet up. I got to catch up with Alexa and Kirby from the short and sweet of it.

xxx

CEO

Outfit of the Week Blogger Meetup

2012-02-03T14:55:00.000-08:00

Untitled #95 by ceocooleclecticoriginal featuring genuine leather handbags

This weekend I am going to a blogger meetup in San Diego and I couldn't be more excited. We are going to visit some friends and do some work along the way. It is always fun traveling with the kiddos. For this weeks outfit I kept it crisp and lady like. I am absolutely loving the heart print skirt from J-Crew it is beyond adorable. What are you up to this weekend my lovelies? I hope you all have a great one.

xxx
CEO

A Yellow Top with Morse Code Jacquard

2012-01-31T08:50:00.000-08:00

Pants J-Crew, Top J-Crew, School Boy Blazer J-Crew, Shirt GAP

Today at school with Sophia it is yellow day. I decided to brighten things up with a layered bright yellow tank top with the morse code pants. I am loving the subtle yet crazy caddy shack quality of these pants. I have been getting super excited to infuse spring colors into my closet. Below is what Sophia is wearing all from the Target.

xxx

CEO

Outfit of the Week Jeans and a T-Shirt

2012-01-26T13:25:00.000-08:00

Untitled #94 by ceocooleclecticoriginal featuring cotton shirts

Monrow cotton shirt, £52
Mango slim jeans, £40
Madewell shoes, $148
Givenchy purple leather handbag, $1,945
Sahani clear crystal earrings, £215
Chanel leather bangle, €1.289

I have been really really obsessed lately with making the simple things in my closet magnificent. Meaning finding new love the in old pair of really really fabulous fitting j-brand pants or the perfect t. I also am very thankful for Sophia love of rummaging through my jewelry drawers bringing attention to a piece that I have forgotten about. Remember to Keep it Simple!

xxx
CEO

It was RED Day at School

2012-01-25T11:39:00.000-08:00

Jacket Target, Shirt J-Crew, Pants Old Navy,Bracelet J-Crew, Shoes ShoeMint, Bag YSL

Yesterday was RED color day at Sophia's school and this is what I wore. OK maybe not the fabulous Shoemint shoes impractical on the playground but everything else. I have been loving my bomber jacket though it is pleather another practical choice when I am walking around with spit-up or some strange piece of food from Sophia's lunch on me 90% of the time. Black accent pieces (jacket, bag, and shoes) toned down a very colorful ensemble and the yellow unbreakable sparkler tied it all together.

xxx

CEO

Paralyzing Perfection

2012-01-24T14:07:00.000-08:00

Dear Blog readers I am sorry I haven't been posting as much as usual I have had a case of paralyzing perfectionism. See one of my New Years resolution was to only post original content meaning pictures taken by me, stuff made by me, and general life things that are inspiring to me ( I don't want to barf over the Internet what everyone else is barfing up). I felt like on the blogging platform I have lost sight of my voice and what I want to do here. I want to create a place that is an experience like no other.... (no you won't see me wearing a Michael Kors gold watch). My main goal in designing, or blogging has always been to make women feel pretty from the everyday things like outfits, food, table settings and most importantly handbags ( what else do you put your entire life into and carry everyday- bags are pretty DARN IMPORTANT). So I started with the overall branding of Christina Elaine which hasn't meant my standard and have begun to give it all a face lift which is has been fun and exciting all along the way working on creating original content.

XXX

CEO

PS- I was browsing style.com and the new Couture shows and I terribly miss Mr. Galliano. I love what the dear Mr. Manolo Blahnik said here. I know Mr Galliano said some horrible things but I can't let myself forget how magical of a designer he is. Maybe I am still grieving the loss of Laquiox too.

Outfit of the Week.... Neutrals with Gold Accents

2012-01-18T14:07:00.000-08:00

Untitled #93 by ceocooleclecticoriginal featuring lace tops

I have been getting very excited for the spring season and all the wonderful array of colors that I will be adding to my closet. I am especially loving mixing metallics with neutrals and a simple pop of color. What will you be pairing together this spring time?

xxx
CEO

Blog Makeover

2012-01-18T13:12:00.000-08:00

Hello lovely readers we are in the process of a serious blog make over and recovering from a holiday hangover (or we just got sick from the holidays). I am so excited to show off a new branded blog and logo to everyone.

xxx
CEO

Outfit of the Week Black and White

2011-12-23T09:14:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve Attire by ceocooleclecticoriginal featuring stud earrings

TopShop three quarter sleeve shirt, $90
Nina Ricci silk pleated skirt, £1,155
Leather shoes, £195
Chanel evening bag
Kate spade bangle, $248
Alex and Chloe stud earrings, $90

Since Axel is only four months old he still eats all the time. So for outfit options.. dresses are not really in the picture ( I would spend the entire night getting dressed and undressed to feed him). I have been especially loving the full skirt with the classic white shirt paired with some super fabulous accessories. What are you planning on wearing during the holiday?

xxx
CEO

Chic I Y Glitter Shoes in Action

2011-12-19T09:20:00.000-08:00

I wanted to show everyone the CHIC I Y Glitter Shoes in Action. The shoes are amazing for a 30 minute Chic I Y. But how amazing does that Turquoise (which is my birthstone) look in the photo. My eyes are drawn to it and my heart beats another beat. I had complete outfit looks but I had a bad hair day that I didn't feel like sharing it with the internet. I hope everyone enjoyed their last holiday weekend before Christmas. We went with for our third anual visit to Santa with our friends and realized we had created our own little family tradition. Have a wonderful Holiday Week!

xxx

CEO

Outfit of the Week: Neutral and Cobalt Blue

2011-12-15T08:25:00.000-08:00

Neutrals and Cobalt Blue by ceocooleclecticoriginal featuring crocodile handbags

Madewell lace top, $98
Side zip pants, £38
Reed Krakoff crocodile handbag, $5,900
ABS Allen Schwartz gold tone jewelry, $150
Mango knitted shawl, £35
House of Harlow 1960 logo sunglasses, $147

I have been really into looking very streamlined with hints of intense color. I always like the look of accessories that pop. This morning while going through my normal style.com routine and feeding Axel I fell in love with two of the blue looks from Proenza Schouler. What I am especially loving from the looks of pre- fall 2012 is the lack of accessories. I know you are thinking as an accessory designer this should make me sad it doesn't, I want to see carefully made and created accessories. I am not really a fan of a whole bunch of accessory chaos going on. It really hurts my eyes and I'm tired of it. How are you planning on pairing accessories this holiday season? I think I will be working the matching metallic cuff on each wrist. Less is more!

xxx
CEO

Holiday Flair Pink and Leopard

2011-12-12T18:15:00.001-08:00

Dress H&M, bagYSL, jacket Zara, Sophia dress hand me down no label, Sophia shoes Etro(mine)

One afternoon Sophia and I were playing dress up. I put on a dress to take photos and Sophia but on a dress and some heels (Sophia is a shoe lover already :). This dress was one of my favorites while I was pregnant. I love the combo of pink and black. I am still getting back to normal (whatever that is) from having Axel so this is the perfect thing to hide all the funny business( aka muffin top or just extra weight in your hips) that happens after you have a baby and takes a couple months to go away. So what do I do embrace it well NO not really just wait (and work out here and here) and come up with creative outfits that make me feel as pretty as possible.

xxx
CEO

Chic I Y Decking the Halls with Painted Ornaments

2011-12-11T16:35:00.001-08:00

So a few weeks ago our very talented friends came over for a visit and we enjoyed kicking off the holiday season with some ornament painting. It was such a fun activity combing other colors and seeing what kinds of creations we could come up with. I originally thought it would be a great Sophia project but we all did it together and it was super fun.

How to paint the ornaments

1. Go to Michaels get some craft paint and plain glass ornaments

2. Fill the ornaments with paint and combine, create, and have fun

*Special note, using a lot of paint will make it difficult to dry the paint inside the ornament so as always less is more. We put them on top of our wall heater to help with the drying.

xxx

CEO

Chic I Y Just Add GLITTER

2011-12-06T15:19:00.001-08:00

Mr. Olson came up with the wonderful idea of calling all my fashion DIY ish things that I have going on to create a column here called Chic I Y. So for the first project I decided to turn my very old nine-west flats into sparkling holiday shoes. It was a very quick and easy project that Sophia and I did in about 45 minutes while Mr. Axel was taking his afternoon nap.

Step 1. Get Old Shoes to Gliterize

Step 2. Break out the Glitter ( I like the Martha Stewart fine glitter),

Tacky Glue, Old Brushes, and an old plastic container

Step 3. Mix glitter and glue

Step 4. Apply glue all over shoes

Step 5. Pour on the glitter and let dry

Here is the finished product. I absolutely love them. Hope you all find a way to add some glitter to your holiday season.

xxx

CEO

Outfit of the Week Lady Like Holiday Glamour

2011-12-06T08:27:00.001-08:00

Holiday Party Wear by ceocooleclecticoriginal featuring twill pants

Haute Hippie two tone shirt, $285
Emilio Pucci twill pants, $1,150
Manolo Blahnik suede high heels, $595
Chanel leather bag
Michael Kors stainless steel watch, $180
Wet Seal tahitian pearl jewelry, $13

Lately I have been loving simpler refined pieces of clothing. Maybe it is the fact that I just had a baby who knows. I love the pop of pink in this outfit with simple luxurious accessories. Speaking of refined and a pop of color check out the Heidi Merrick spring collection here. I am especially drawn to the yellow top and the pink skirt. Have a wonderful day!

xxx
CEO

Pink Boucle and Plaid Making It Work

2011-11-30T09:48:00.001-08:00

Jeans Gap,Shirt thrifted,Jacket Marc by Marc Jacobs,Shoes Jessica Simpson,Purse YSL,Necklace

So the weather in Los Angeles has been amazing. I had so much fun putting together this outfit. I love the casual feel of the ripped denim with the preppy structured boucle coat. I think the black accessories make the outfit feel more winterish(as winterish as LA can feel). I am in the awkward time between just had a baby to back to normal. So I am making it work and shopping in my closet.

xxx
CEO

Decking the Halls Inspiration

2011-11-29T07:52:00.001-08:00

We have begun to work on all of our Holiday decorations. We have some very exciting projects to share with you. Below is an outfit that I think is the perfect casual holiday party wear with two kiddos in tow.

Source: fashioninmyeyes.com via Christina on Pinterest

I am loving all things light colored this Holiday season from the decor to the outfits I am wanting everything subtle with a bit of spice or neon.

Holiday Wear by ceocooleclecticoriginal featuring heart shaped jewelry

It's About the Experience

2011-11-28T09:46:00.001-08:00

We had a wonderful holiday this weekend. We took a little adventure to San Diego for the day to hang out with Mr. Olson's best friend and his lovely girlfriend. We were talking about how much Sophia loves the experience of things for example she loves sitting in Starbucks and enjoying her milk and conversation. It got me to thinking that life needs to be about taking in the moment and enjoying the experience, how ever little or big of an experience it is. While in San Diego we made a nespresso which has now reached the top of my Christmas list. It simply makes the best homemade cappuccino that I have ever had in the U.S.. The milk foam that the nespresso machine is mouth watering. What little things do you do to enjoy the experience of life? For the Olson clan it usually involves some type of delicious gourmet food.

xxx
CEO

PS. Enjoy your Cyber Monday........

Virtual Nesting a hand and foot project

2011-11-27T11:51:00.001-08:00

I wanted to find a way to document Axel's three month birthday. I have no idea how three months has flown by it has been such a blur. I wanted to include Sophia in whatever we did so I thought I would make some CHIC I Y art to go above their mirror. Axel is a little too young for finger painting so we did Sophia's hand print and Axel's foot print even though they look about the same size. This is such an easy and fun project I think in total including travel time to Michaels it took us an hour and cost about $10.00. The black canvas are $7.00 each (used a 40% off coupon on one) and we had the white paint. What ways have you guys documented two growing kiddos?

xxx,
CEO

PS. I am over on the short and sweet of it giving some MOM style tips.....

Finding Inspiration...... All things California and French

2011-11-21T05:16:00.000-08:00

Source: outofreception.com via Christina on Pinterest

Source: piccsy.com via Christina on Pinterest

It appears that I am coming out of an inspiration rut. Right now I am loving all things that embrace quinticential California like open roads, the ocean, and an amazing Vanessa Bruno video all the videos she makes with her clothes are nothing short of amazing. What has been catching your eye lately or getting you to get a second look.......

LØV from Vanessa Bruno from TreetsLook on Vimeo.

xxx
CEO

PS. Hope this video makes Monday go by a little bit quicker.

Say Backpack

2011-11-17T10:53:00.001-08:00

Untitled #86 by ceocooleclecticoriginal featuring a sling bag

Excuse the Dora the Explorer reference. Sophia has become quite smitten with Dora much to my demise. She stumbled upon Dora on my ipad and I have had Dora things stuck in my head. Needless to say this winter backpacks are everywhere. We saw some last year but this season they are in full force. Keeping things neutral I picked some of my favorite neutral backpacks. I am especially in love with number 1 from The Row so elegant and chic (I know not for the budget conscious backpack wearer) Will you be adding a backpack to your wardrobe this season?

1,2,3,4,5,6

xxx,
CEO

Attention to Details Make Me Feel Pretty

2011-11-16T11:27:00.001-08:00

Coat Miss Selfridges, Bag Longchamp, pants J-Crew, bracelet Forever 21, and Ring Vintage

Sophia Top and Pants Carters, Socks Old Navy, Shoes Lights Ups Stride Rite

This past weekend we did the usual routine crawled out of bed couldn't believe that is was six am and scrambled to make it to church then went and hung out at my in-laws house. These photos were taken in the alley of my in-laws house. I love the texture of the wood and the random bits of chalk from some little kid playing a game or two. This whole outfit is about details. This coat is one of my favorite purchases from my time in London. I especially love the detailing, it has a perfectly accented shoulder a puff sleeve all while maintaining a narrow silhouette which is hard to do. This attention to cut and silhouette make me feel pretty every time I wear thins coat. I have been loving this packable bag for the ease of use with the two kiddos (of course my grandmother gave it to me). The random necklace that I turned into a bracelet seemed to complete the look.

xxx,

CEO

Inspired by Color

2011-11-14T11:09:00.001-08:00

Source: eye.fashionary.org via Christina on Pinterest

I have been inspired by multi dimensional color. I especially like the areas where colors are slightly blended together. This is my favorite thing when i am painting.I am loving this photos pinks and blues. I also found this ring that could give days of color inspiration.

Source: etsy.com via Christina on Pinterest

Xxx
Ceo

Coupons Are Glamorous

2011-11-09T15:26:00.000-08:00

Source: bippityboppityboo.tumblr.com via Christina on Pinterest

I debated even posting this but my goal with blogging is to make women feel pretty. If saving money allows for an extra highlight or fancy eyebrow wax in a month that makes you feel pretty then I am smiling. Couponing started with my mom and my SIL ( sister in law what I call her for short) they are serious couponers. My sister in law is pretty much fabulous at everything I suck at..... like cutting toddlers nails, nap times the same time everyday, and a solid bedtime routine. I know all these things are important it just that its not me.. life sidetracks me. But a few Sundays ago Sophia and I went to Starbucks for a steamed kid's milk and a venti coffee that Mr. Olson and I could split. We picked up some eggs at Ralph's I picked up a paper and started clipping coupons. Mr. Olson immediately states he doesn't want to be a part of this new adventure of mine but will support all $$$$ money$$$$$ saving efforts.

So I figured let just see what we can save and man oh man you can save a lot. I like to combine manufacturer coupons with store coupons and get extra savings (otherwise known as stacking).Also I have just started using things like Groupon and Plum district. I feel like a dummy for not buying things that I always buy on Groupon or with a coupon. I have had such a fun time saving money and stocking up. I know coupons might not be the most glamorous thing but it is putting more cash in my pocket to be extra glamorous. Like update my blog (we are taking any graphic suggestions), get me to ALT Design Summit, and design more Christina Elaine bags.

My favorite coupon resource is Krazy Coupon Lady....

'
xxx

CEO

Happy Monday

2011-11-07T09:21:00.000-08:00

Source: dressdesigndecor.blogspot.com via Christina on Pinterest

Source: superswoon.com via Christina on Pinterest

Over here at Casa De Olson we had a wonderful weekend with great fall weather in Las Angeles and even some rain. The weekend was all about my niece and father's birthday which is on the same day. We had a great time visiting with friends and family. I hope everyone has a wonderful monday! We will be going to music class and of course working away on all things CEO

xxx
CEO

Outfit of the Week Ankle Boots and a Full Skirt

2011-11-03T10:33:00.000-07:00

Untitled #84 by ceocooleclecticoriginal featuring a sheer blouse

Sheer blouse, $230
Mulberry flared skirt, $435
Yves Saint Laurent leather tote bag, $1,980
Dsquared bracelet, $480
H M acrylic scarve, £7.99

I am loving skirts and blouses. This is the perfect outfit to run around in with two kiddos. Th blouse gives super easy access for nursing, the purse can hold a diaper wallet andd blanket, and the scarf of course doubles as a nursing cover up. In terms of fashion not mom fashion I am loving the short full skirts that are everywhere this season. I alson am especially craving some ankle boots to add to my closet. What items are you adding to your closet this fall/ winter?

xxx
ceo

Metal Inspiration

2011-10-26T12:38:00.000-07:00

Source: tumblr.com via Christina on Pinterest

I am always talking about being inspired by texture. Which I am always inspired by anything that you just want to grab and touch. This picture sums up texute inspirations. The multi dimensional levels of the jewlery and the tone are amazing. Hope everyone is having a great day!

xxx
CEO

Outfit of the Week Adding Drama with Accessories

2011-10-20T09:22:00.000-07:00

Untitled #82 by ceocooleclecticoriginal featuring a bib necklace

I am so excited one of my best friends in the whole world is coming this weekend with her family. I can't wait to see her little boy. I am also so excited to go to a real life adult dinner and have normal conversation. This is what I want to be wearing. This outfit is all about the high drama accessories. I am in love with these miu miu shoots. Any pieces that you guys are in love with lately?

xxx
ceo

Virtual Nesting Green Doors

2011-10-18T15:50:00.000-07:00

Source: lisamarie22.tumblr.com via Krista on Pinterest

Source: apartmenttherapy.com via Christina on Pinterest

We ( or I Mr. Olson thinks I'm Crazy) have been working on refinishing some lovely garbage picked outdoor chairs. I figured while we were painting these chairs I would paint our front door a lovely and very lively green color. Hopefully this week I will go buy some sample paint colors. I promise this paint sample run wont end up like this one.

Source: src783.blogspot.com via Christina on Pinterest

I love this quote it just pretty much summed up how I felt all day. For the first time it was easy to get out the door and go have some fun at our mommy and me class then burn off some extra steam at the park with some of Sophia's friends. It's funny because when I started all of these things with Sophia I never imagined making friends in a city that isn't my favorite I just told myself to be nice and now I am telling myself to have fun!!!!!

On that note all I hope everyone has some fun........

xxx
CEO

Outfit of the Week Blue, Tan, and Black

2011-10-13T15:06:00.000-07:00

Untitled #81 by ceocooleclecticoriginal featuring cocktail rings

This week I am loving all things refined. I am especially loving these vintage channel earrings. I like how this outfit plays with tan, blue, and black ( always a sucker for contrast). What colors have you been playing with lately in your fall wardrobe?

xxx
CEO

Three things I love

2011-10-12T21:58:00.000-07:00

Source: stylebubble.co.uk via Christina on Pinterest

1. Texture.... I am in love with this photo from Style bubble and I love what she wrote about Palmer Harding.

Source: rca.ac.uk via Christina on Pinterest

2. PINK This shot is my favorite item that I pinned all week of course it is from a student at the Royal College. I love the color saturation and the gathering at the sides. The glasses make me smile also.

Source: flickr.com via Christina on Pinterest

3. Flamingos a few weeks ago my sister in law sent me a message on facebook she had about Sophia with Flamingos and it sent me into a funny little research project of looking up all kinds of flamingo art. I especially love this photograph.

Have a fabulous day!

xxx
CEO

Virtual Nesting Project #2 Kiddos Room Toy Mirror

2011-09-29T13:22:00.000-07:00

I found a fabulous black mirror at TJ Maxx ( for $24.99) that would look perfect behind Axel's crib. I decided I wanted to make a toy collage on it with all kinds of toys on the mirror. So first things first we primed the mirror white with Rustoleum and then asked everyone in our neighborhood for old toys that they didn't want any more. Then I had a party with the glue gun and went to town gluing everything. Every so often I would see a toy that Sophia took off because she needed to save that toy. I am very pleased with how it turned out. It is fun and kiddish but with an element of dare I say "Sophisticated" design. Here is a process shot with a random pink ball. It was also a very valuable lesson to teach Sophia about the three R's reduce reuse and recycle which is exactly what we did in this project (that is what Mr. Olson loved about this project).

Here is the final product hanging above Axel's crib. Since the early arrival of Axel we have been chipping away at Axel and Sophia's bedroom we will be done sooner rather than later. It is definately a conversation piece in their room if not anything else.

A close up to a frog, some army men, and a toy car.

Some Dinosaurs! Everything looks better with white spray paint.

And the finished product. Sophia and Axel are loving it.

Have a wonderful Thursday!!!!

xxx

CEO

Outfit of the Week Back to Work..

2011-09-28T15:10:00.000-07:00

Untitled #80 by ceocooleclecticoriginal featuring embroidered blouses

So I am officially back at work not that I ever left. But I told myself that I wouldn't stress about anything Christina Elaine, blog or work in general at all until Mr. Axel is six weeks. Those six weeks went by as fast as Lighting McQueen ( yes I have a toddler that loves Lighting McQueen). So even though I am usually in Lulu lemon leggings and an American Apparel top this outfit is what I really really want to wear to work everyday. I am loving the texture of the top, the gold tips on the shoes, and the vintage Channel Satchel which has me drooling. Drool aside have a wonderful day and I will leave you with these words of wisdom from Ms. Coco herself.

Source: google.com via Christina on Pinterest

xxx
CEO

Inspired Me to Play with Glitter

2011-09-28T14:39:00.000-07:00

Source: marlow35.blogspot.com via Christina on Pinterest

This lovely photo above inspired me to make have a heyday with some extra glitter we had laying around the casa. Hope everyone is enjoying their Wednesday. We had a wonderful weekend with loads of family time. Little Sophia caught a cold so we have been relaxing and laying low. I intended to post this on Monday not sure where the week has gone.

xxx
CEO

Outfit of the Week Boyfriend Jeans and Bangles

2011-09-21T01:30:00.000-07:00

Untitled #79 by ceocooleclecticoriginal featuring gold jewelry

We are back in the swing of things with summer officially over and music and mommy and me in full gear. It is always fun to get back to the school year. Sophia is loving her classes and Casa de Olson is loving getting back on a real schedule with Sophia and Axel. Still not completely back to normal from MR. Axel's birth I am loving my boyfriend jeans and fun accessories. I am especially loving bangles right now. What accessories are you guys loving?

xxx
CEO

Inspiration Friday....

2011-09-16T02:33:00.000-07:00

Source: vogue.com via Christina on Pinterest

There is a lot of time spent in my work looking, seeking, and dreaming up inspiration. Which is very very funny because it is usually right in front of you like this or evolves into something totally different. I thought I would start every friday sharing what around the web is super duper and inspiring me at the moment.

I loved this TED TALK that was forwarded by Mr.Olson's friend. The why of anything in our lives is the most important just ask Sophia. Why has become her favorite new word.
These guys ROCK would love to see them live.
Cirque du Soleil coming to Santa Monica would love to see them read more HERE.
Fendi had a very eye pleasing display thanks for the Royal College check it out here I am especially in love with this photo (below). The colors, design and the linear quality are all very appealing to me.

Outfit of the Week Back and White Accents

2011-09-15T13:36:00.000-07:00

Untitled #78 by ceocooleclecticoriginal featuring clutch hand bags

It seems that you always want what you don't have this summer while pregnant all I want was to wear a lovely high-waisted dress like the one pictured above. I love the glam touches that black and white are bringing to this outfit. This doesn't really go well with a big huge baby bump. So now is the time that I can rock a high wasted dress. I hope everyone is having a great week. We have been getting back in the swing of things with music class and mommy and me again.

xxx
CEO

New York Fashion Week Favorite looks

2011-09-12T06:11:00.000-07:00

I miss being in New York for the hype of fashion week the energy in the city during NYFW is nothing short of fabulous. I wanted to share one (or two) of my favorite looks with you guys for Spring 2012. It is from Kelly Wearstler's fashion collection. Which I must say is very cool just like everything else she does. Though I think sometimes her textiles are very very reminiscent of Sonia Delaunay( my favorite textile designer ever) I love what she has done with triangles, I also love the whole collections color choices. I know I have a serious obsession with triangles. I just love love love the shape I have written about them here and pinned them numerous time other times on my pinterest. I just want to put on that awesome PINK leather coat and the white heels from the first photo. What are you guys loving this NYFW? Happy NYFW all!!

* Images via style.com

xxx
CEO

Inspiring Me to Make....

2011-09-08T10:43:00.000-07:00

A few months ago I was looking through an old British ELLE Decor and found the image on the left. I love the super neutral contrast with the neon. So I needed a beach canvas hall around bag and I decided to make this neon stripe canvas carryall. A little glimpse into my crazy brain that doesn't stop.

* Images here and my trusty I-phone

xxx
CEO

Fall Inspiration

2011-09-07T15:03:00.000-07:00

Source: boozebagbettygoestorehab.blogspot.com via Christina on Pinterest

Source: booooooom.com via Christina on Pinterest

We have been settling back into life since Mr. Axel's arrival. I have my non pregnancy fall wardrobe on my mind. I am in that in between phase not pregnant but not back to normal. I have been inspired by the freeness of abstract paintings in the picture above. I am excited to enjoy the lovely weather of September and October here in Los Angeles. What has been inspiring you lately?

xxx
CEO

Outfit of the week red pants

2011-09-06T07:10:00.000-07:00

hints of red and black... by ceocooleclecticoriginal featuring chain jewelry

I hope everyone had a great labor day. We had a wonderful time in Catalina. We saw on of the most amazing rainbows. Fall is officially upon us which means fall clothes. I am planning on adding some red or rust colored pants to my wardrobe this year. What new fall pieces are you guys planning on adding?

Xxx
Ceo

1 pregnancy 140 outfits 1 hope Bringing baby home

2011-09-02T02:30:00.000-07:00

The whole campaign for Hope Village has been a growing process. With only two days left we haven't reached our goal but we have raised a lot of awareness about women's rights and pregnancy rights for women in Egypt. I have loved sharing all my fashion tips while pregnant and all the creative outfit solutions I have. Though we didn't make it to 140 my last outfit for the campaign is a picture of Sophia, Axel and I when he is one week old ( He's two weeks now) will update a new photo very soon. Thank you everyone for all of your support. My fashion outfit posts from here on out will be about creating outfits with the dreaded nursing bra hahahah. I will be trying to post weekly outfits on getting back into my normal clothes and all the joys of motherhood the first couple of weeks.

xxx
CEO

Happy Birthday Mr. Olson

2011-09-01T14:04:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Mr. Olson's Birthday. We had a quite night at home with the two kiddos. It has been been crazy since the arrival of Mr. Axel Patrick. I am so grateful to have Mr. Olson as my partner in crime . The past three years have been crazy busy with now two kiddos, a wedding, and starting a company. But all the craziness has put a serious smile on my face sharing it with Mr. Olson. I hope you all remember to thank and be grateful for the people that are in your life and make you smile. What are you guys grateful for today?

xxx
CEO

Source: dressdesigndecor.blogspot.com via Christina on Pinterest

Virtual Nesting I confess I am a painting sample addict

2011-08-30T12:50:00.000-07:00

From the photo above I think it pretty much explains our ( well my painting indecision). It is hard to combine paint colors that will evoke enough girlish flair and the right amount of boy too. This is a hard for a neon pink loving girly girl. Originally I thought yellow or teal but the dilemma here is we are painting two walls and the third wall is a closet that gives way to living space.So the color we choose we need to be OK with looking at it from our couch. There are sliding doors but it needs to blend in enough. So we finally found a lovely Benjamin Moore paint color called beacon grey ( see the color below)

The color blends in enough but gives us enough to play around with some boy and girl colors avoiding looking too gender neutral and blah. I will leave you with some more kiddo room inspiration. Since Mr. Axel decided to make and early arrival we are still working on getting the space all finished and the art on the wall.

Don't be scared to try a lot of paint samples I wasn't. But now I just need to find a use for all of those samples. Sounds like some kind of Mr. Olson dreaded art project in the works.

xxx
CEO

Outfit of the Week Leopard.....

2011-08-26T02:00:00.000-07:00

Lady Lux Night Out by ceocooleclecticoriginal featuring a flap bag

Since having Mr Axel last week ago clothing options have once again opened up to me. I am so in love with the super duper high heels in this set along with the leopard jacket that may be a little over the top but so much fun. After a body altering experience like pregnancy I always want to expand my fashion horizons. Are any of you changing up your taste or closets at all in preparation for fall? Have a wonderful day!!

xxx
CEO

Introducing Mr. Axel Patrick.......

2011-08-25T10:32:00.000-07:00

So the last time I posted a week ago I wrote about how much fun I was having on the kiddo room and how much we had to figure out with our insurance before the birth of the baby well surprise surprise our little Axel Patrick joined the Olson clan the next day. He is healthy and we are all in love. I am so very grateful for how excited Sophia has been and for all the love and support I have gotten from Mr. Olson.This was such a great lesson in letting go of control. He was born two weeks early and we still had a lot to do in the house and in terms of getting clothes car seats etc ready. But it all ended well and Axel is so cute I am just soaking up every minute of newborn bliss.

xxx
CEO

Virtual Nesting Shared Kiddo Bedroom Inspiration

2011-08-16T02:49:00.000-07:00

Source: mintdesignblog.com via Christina on Pinterest

We have been super duper busy over here at Casa de Olson preparing for the new baby and dealing with a major insurance snafu. It should get interesting to see what we end up doing we just found out from our insurance we are responsible for paying for the whole labor and delivery ourselves. I love the picture above of polka dots I especially like the color bleed through. So naturally I have just drowned myself in a million projects and seeking inspiration for the new Christina Elaine collection. XXX Ceo

Outfit of the Week Date Night .... Black and White.....

2011-08-12T08:58:00.000-07:00

Black and White with teal.... by ceocooleclecticoriginal featuring structured handbags

So I have missed you guys... This week was rather hectic getting ready for baby number 2. Last weekend Sophia and I went to Catalina with Mr. Olson's family so Mr. Olson could start to get the house ready and paint. This marks our first weekend home with nothing to do in about 6 weeks and this very very pregnant lady is so excited. I have put together a little movie and dinner ensemble. I am especially loving the teal bag that can be found here for a mere $26.00 what a steal. Any exciting weekend plans this weekend?

xxx
CEO

1 pregnancy 140 outfits 1 hope Outfit # 16 A dress Revisited

2011-08-04T05:45:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I attended my best friend's wedding and it was such a blast. The wedding was so much fun and the bride looked amazing. I wore my sister in laws brides maids dress that she wore in my wedding when she was pregnant. I am so glad that I was able to wear it again. It didn't make sense to invest in something fabulous for a one time wear when I am 36 weeks pregnant.

Fashion Tip # 16 With Maternity fashion it is all about the three R's Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle

xxx
CEO

PS. Wanna learn more about our campaign and maybe give us a donation click here. Here is the post explaining what I am doing. Fashion + Pregnancy + Hope

Outfit of the Week Tan, Gold, and a Splash of Neon

2011-08-03T09:44:00.000-07:00

tan neon and gold by ceo cool eclectic original featuring leather flats

I am always a fan of contrast. I love how the neon pink pants spice up a very very neutral and tan outfit. Hope you all are having a great week. We are back in the swing of things. Have a great day!

xxx
CEO

Black and White Inspiration

2011-08-02T07:05:00.000-07:00

Source: mloe.tumblr.com via Christina on Pinterest

This weekend marked the last event (My BFF's wedding) of our month long traveling escapade, before Olson baby #2 comes. We are getting super excited over here and ready to catch up on some rest. In a matter of four weeks we have been to NYC, Calistoga, Dana Point, and Marin. I am always one to love a good trip for some inspiration but at 36 weeks pregnant and with a toddler in tow it can get a little tiring. I know we could have left Sophia but she is allergic to gluten and every time I have to leave her without food packed by my own two hands I cringe. I cringe and the thought that she might be screaming in pain all night. We have had a really really rough time with Sophia's sleeping from the moment we gave her solids. The virtual nesting shared kids bedroom has been on our mind. I wrote here about our color inspiration but I am thinking of black and white for some art on the wall like the above picture ( found on my pinterest). What colors have been inspiring you lately?

1 pregnancy 140 outfits 1 hope Outfit # 15 Wedding Attire

2011-07-27T12:48:00.000-07:00

So sorry for the lack of Hope Village outfit posts. For the last month Mr. Olson, Sophia and I have been attending a wedding event of some type. So this foursome is pretty wiped out. We have had a wonderful time and wouldn't change it for the world. Sophia was a flower girl this last weekend with her little friend and I must say it was the cutest thing I have ever seen (purple cast and all). While Sophia was fulfilling her flower girl duties Mr. Olson took a fer shots of this 34 week pregnant belly. The finale is this weekend where I get to watch my best, silliest, oldest friend in the whole wide world walk down the aisle. It is such a surreal thing because we used to talk about getting married, moving to New York and doing all of these adult things that we are now doing. I am beyond excited for her!

I am wearing a Foley and Corinna dress that I bought at a sample sale three years ago for $60.00. It is a size up but I have worn it through now 2 pregnancies ( that sounds a little crazy 2 ..we are about to have a family of 4) and that funny time post partum when you dont want to buy clothes but you can barely fit your old clothes.

Fashion Tip # 15 Pleating makes dress more flattering and hang better

xxx
CEO

PS. Wanna learn more about our campaign and maybe give us a donation click here. Here is the post explaining what I am doing. Fashion + Pregnancy + Hope

Outfit of the Week Yellow and Brown

2011-07-20T16:49:00.000-07:00

Source: polyvore.com via Christina on Pinterest

I think it might be all the yellow I have been researching for the kiddies room but I am loving it. So it is no surprise that yellow was my inspiration for the outfit of the week. What colors make you feel warm and fuzzy inside?

Xxx
Ceo

Virtual Nesting Kiddo Room Color Inspiration

2011-07-19T06:33:00.000-07:00

Now that Mr. Olson and I have nearly finished the Master bedroom, for the virtual nesting project it is on to baby # 2 and Sophia's room. I figured I would just start with what types of colors we were thinking of using. It seems that I am leaning towards yellow and teal with tones of gold sprinkled throughout. It needs to be suitable for a boy and a girl this is where the fun in designing begins.This might change based on budget and what the project evolves into. I would like to only spend $250.00 on the whole project we will see where we end up though.

What types of projects are you guys tackling lately? I will be posting more 1pregnancy 140 outfits 1 hope very soon. I have had back to back bachelorette parties (which were super duper fabulous both weekends) and have been a wee bit wiped. Have a wonderful Tuesday and keep it colorful!

xxx
CEO

* all images via my pinterest

Outfit of the Week..Summer Colors Blue and Pink...

2011-07-13T11:56:00.000-07:00

Untitled by ceo cool eclectic original featuring 18k jewelry

I am still recovering (being a tired very pregnant lady) from the fabulous trip to New York that I took last weekend for my BFF's bachelorette party. It was a short trip filled with wonderful friends, memories made and the Alexander McQueen exhibit at the Met. It might be the summer pregnancy but I have been loving long long skirts this summer. Today I am going to shop around looking for potential shops to carry Christina Elaine. Yesterday we had a very informative meeting as to where to take our brand. I am so sorry for the lack of 1 pregnancy 140 outfits 1 hope posts they will come soon enough. Have a great day!

xxx
CEO

Virtual Nesting Meet our Master Suite

2011-07-12T12:51:00.000-07:00

We are finished (for the most part expect for some DIY canvas frames) with our Master Suite measuring in at 10x10. Remember my post or as Mr. Olson calls it a brain dump of everything I want to get done in our house before baby joins us. Here is everything that we have done so far. Built in closets to provide more closet space and keep us out of Sophia's and Garbonzo II's large closet, Paint the walls, Hang curtains, DIY Light, Make art, DIY sunburst mirror. We are both pleased with how it turned out. I think it has enough eclectic charm to not feel like a nice 5 star hotel decorated room lacking our own touch (which I was very worried about with the built ins). DIY canvas pictures are still on our list to get done in this room and hang something on the empty wall on the end of our bed. I hope you guys enjoyed our virtual nesting journey project #1 now onto the shared kids bedroom.
Here is a price list of costs
Paint Olympic LOW VOC $ 56.89
Built in Closet $547.00 ( this includes some labor help that Mr. Olson hired out)
Bedding 85.67
Curtains $ 142.00
Art $0.00 (I used a canvas I had and painted over it with sample paints I had laying around)
Sunbusrt Mirror $17.00
Canvas Frames $45.67 + cost of printing pictures... still need to do this one
Total $877.23 (done over 6 months)

xxx
CEO

PS. Wanna learn more about our campaign and give us a donation click here. Here is the post explaining what I am doing. Fashion + Pregnancy + Hope

PPS. Check out this awesome article that was written about 1pregnancy 140 outfits 1 hope

1 pregnancy 140 outfits 1 hope Outfit # 14 A skirt as a top kind of day

2011-07-07T09:29:00.000-07:00

So sorry this outfit post is so late. I have been a little slow since Sophia broke her arm. I also spent my blogging time yesterday trying to figure out how in photoshop to create lovely layouts for this blog ( I was unsuccessful).Yesterday we were filming my shop for a project I am working on. It was also hot hot hot here. So I put on the cutest thrift store skirt ($3.00) I have gotten recently then we snapped and filmed away. I hope you like the picture of my shop. It is full of stuff of all kinds from everywhere old and new. I am currently working on dying some really really cool leathers (pictured above). What creative activities are you guys working on?

Fashion Tip #14 - When looking for new finds in your own closet think of re-purposing goods you have in another way.

xxx

CEO

PS. Wanna learn more about our campaign and maybe give us a donation click here. Here is the post explaining what I am doing. Fashion + Pregnancy + Hope

PPS- Not sure if I had serious pregnancy brain with the sunscreen or I was just super duper white not sure how I got those crazy tan lines. Again note I am not a photo shop genius :).

Red White and Blue Outfit .... Happy Fourth of July

2011-07-04T14:15:00.000-07:00

Untitled by ceo cool eclectic original featuring goldtone earrings

In honor of the good old USA's independence day put on some stripes and be patriotic. We went to a party yesterday and are laying low today. Hope you all enjoy the day!
xxx
CEO

Outfit of the Week... Kelly Green with a touch of Gold

2011-06-29T07:19:00.001-07:00

Untitled by ceo cool eclectic original featuring vintage style watches

I love the look of this long relaxed skirt from Topshop. Today I will be working on getting ready for our new collection and all the paper work for the trade show Pool that we will be attending in Las Vegas ( a few weeks before I am due it'll be fun :)). I am so excited to get to be in the trade show and see what comes of it. Every show that we have done so far has been a success on some level. Mr. Olson and I will be speaking at a profounder event which will be very exciting. I love it when Mr. Olson does anything with Christina Elaine other than talk about how it needs to be making more money. Correction this was the plan as of this morning but our dear sweet Sophia had a little accident and we spent the whole day at the Dr's gettting a groovy purple cast. We are so sad to miss the profounder event. I hope we can go next time. But we needed to hang out with Sophia and let her arm heal. She was so brave through everything.

xxx
CEO

1 pregnancy 140 outfits 1 hope Outfit # 13 Some Seersucker

2011-06-29T04:50:00.000-07:00

Summer is finally upon us and I have a belly at 30 weeks. This belly has raised $565 to help Mother's in Cairo that are victims of rape and abuse. Thank you all to all of our contributors. We took these photos in the back yard and I had a blast putting together this outfit. I loved how the pinks and mustard colors blended together. I found this dress a while back and was waiting patiently for my baby belly to fill it out. The best part about the dress was that it was only $6.00 yes $ 6.00. I paired it with some straw bangles that my Grandmother gave me and a lovely mustard vintage Gucci bamboo bag.

Fashion Tip #13 Embrace COLOR......

xxx
CEO
PS. Wanna learn more about our campaign and maybe give us a donation click here. Here is the post explaining what I am doing. Fashion + Pregnancy + Hope

Virtual Nesting Master Bedroom Project Lighting....

2011-06-28T23:37:00.000-07:00

This post reminds me of my dating life.... you go on a bunch of awful dates only to realize that THE ONE was in front of my face the whole time. Above is our lighting collage of all the options. We thought it would take a while to find the ONE.... but sitting happily in my shop on my pattern cutting table all by herself. The light fixture (below) from my dear dear dear friend Rana for our wedding from Egypt. I was talking to Mr. Olson about the Sunburst mirror when the symphony music came on ( in my head) and I thought Rana's lamp lets see what it looks like. Mr. Olson said that is the one and I worried it would be too small for our tiny room. We tested it out took pictures and it was the one............ If you want to know the DIY instruction on the HOW TO ask away and I will make or begg Mr. Olson to do a post since he is the talented installer of this light fixture.

xxx
CEO

PS. Wanna Read more about our Virtual Nesting, painting project, art in bed, curtain search, or sunburst mirror all in the master bedroom

Summer Loving Outift #12

2011-06-27T06:45:00.000-07:00

This weekend we were pretty busy. On Saturday it was all work and on Sunday we just laid low. I went to a talk in the morning on Energy ( I know very new age of me). Then while Sophia was napping Kevin and I picked up around the house. I was wearing a little black dress with a lovely sun hat. I hope you enjoy the pictures we snapped. I am starting to feel pregnant and the little guy is moving up a storm.

Fashion Tip # 12 Sometimes to putting on your favorite little black dress will do the trick to get you out of those jeans.

PS. Wanna learn more about our campaign and maybe give us a donation click here. Here is the post explaining what I am doing. Fashion + Pregnancy + Hope

xxx
CEO

Inpiration Black and White Photo

2011-06-23T07:13:00.000-07:00

Source: philophiles.blogspot.com via Christina on Pinterest

I like give a glimpse of my world to my blog readers from the love of fashion, to DIY stuff, Sophia things etc etc. I am always talking about getting inspired or designing but I am never really showing what inspires me. This morning while reading blogs I stumbled upon this image. Everything in it has a wonderful clean aesthetic. This photo caught my attention and I thought I would share it. I am loving the shadows, the hard lines, and soft shadow of the model. Have a wonderful day!

XXX
CEO

Outfit of the Week ..... Accenting in Turquoise

2011-06-22T13:10:00.000-07:00

Untitled by ceo cool eclectic original featuring vintage chanel bags

Today Sophia had her first dentist appointment ( I know she is getting tooo big) and this is what I wish I was wearing. I guess I'll just paint my nails turquoise. I love adding black to my summer attire for a wee bit of sophistication. Hope you all are having a wonderful week. What summer colors are you planning on accenting with this summer.... light airy colors or bold neons?

xxx
CEO

Virtual Nesting Project DIY Sunburst Mirror

2011-06-22T00:27:00.000-07:00

I have been having so much fun sharing all of my nesting projects with you from the painting the bedroom, to the curtain debacle. Mr. Olson and I decided that we would make some thing to put behind our bed since we have a precarious light switch were a headboard would go. So I decided to make a lovely sunburst mirror it seemed economical and would fill up the space. Making some type of art to go behind our bed was too much pressure. I checked out a couple DIY tutorials here and here. I pretty much used this one and added mirrors. Let's just say documenting DIY projects is not my strong point it always seems to get painted or whatever before I can get the photos done. SO here it is and I am so happy with how it turned out. It cost us only $ 17.00 and about 45 minutes (not including waiting for the paint to dry). Enjoy! Are you guys working on any DIY projects lately to make your life more lovely.....

xxx
CEO

( Images via here and here via pinterest)

Working Working Working.....

2011-06-21T06:24:00.000-07:00

I am so sorry that I haven't posted any new outfit posts. I had friends in town this weekend attended a lovely bridal shower and Mr. Olson over booked our schedule ( apparently he thinks my blog should be more focused and write about one thing.... hahah) so there was no time to 1. take my outfit shots and 2. work on my new designs along with care for sweet Sophia. I am loving all the details about of this picture from the tights to the lace to the hat. It is pure textural bliss. I am always inspired by texture anything that makes you want to reach out and touch it. I love! Have a wonderful day! I am sooo looking forward to the Pinterest meetup on Thursday... Literally Pinterest is the most exciting thing to happen online for any visually oriented person.

xxx

CEO

Image via (here)

Outift of the Week Featuring a Long Dress and a Sun hat

2011-06-16T14:35:00.000-07:00

Outdoor Bridal Shower by ceo cool eclectic original featuring jamie joseph jewelry

From now until the end of July pretty much every weekend I have some type wedding related celebration. This weekend I have one of my dear dear college friends bridal shower and I couldn't be more excited. One of our other friends and her maid of honor is a party planner so I know the shower will be beyond fabulous. It will also be a great day to honor and celebrate my friend. The question is what does one wear when we have June Gloom in CA and I am 29 weeks pregnant? I am especially loving the added touch of tan and black in the bag. Hope you all enjoy the little ensemble I put together.

xxx
CEO

1 pregnancy 140 outfits 1 hope Outfit #11 Lacquoix I love you

2011-06-15T08:13:00.000-07:00

The day that it was announced that Christian Lacroix would be closing down was one of the saddest fashion days of my life. The design house was so so very creative and genius at mixing and matching the unmatchable. It was always a visual delight to look at how he would compile his collections. This was the only show that I would even tune into during Fashion week and get excited for the visual assault that would happen on my eyes. A true creative couture designer. So for months on the outnet I stalked and stalked the dress that I am wearing hoping that my size wouldn't get sold. To own a little bit of Lacroix and be able to at least show Sophia even if she could care a less. Mr. Olson surprised me with it for Christmas ( I so love him)... totally impractical and a little bit pricey but I smile when I see it in my closet. In the accessory department I pared it with a lovely bracelet from my new fabulous friend Erika the genius behind Alter Ego. I met her at Unique LA and she is as much of a delight as her designs.

Fashion Tip # 10 Embrace what you are drawn to and love

xxx

CEO

PS. Wanna learn more about our campaign and maybe give us a donation click here. Here is the post explaining what I am doing. Fashion + Pregnancy + Hope

PPS. I love what this girl is doing also.... check out this video...

1 pregnancy 140 outfits 1 hope Outfit # 10 A Straw Bag and 1 Sophia

2011-06-14T05:22:00.000-07:00

This was a reality shot of what it's really like to be starting a handbag company in the midst of sampling a new line, generating awareness for Hope Village, and being 28 weeks pregnant with a two year old. I love to bring Sophia to everything that I do and include her in as much as possible from events to meetings with my production team I like to take her (and she like to come typically). Today she wasn't feeling very well so getting a great styled shot without her pink crocs was tough. The real motivation for the project is to raise awareness for all the Street Mother's victims of RAPE and abuse in Egypt.

Fashion Tip # 10 Key Accessories such as a gold and tan straw bag play up any outfit

xxx

CEO

PS. Wanna learn more about our campaign and give us a donation click here. Here is the post explaining what I am doing. Fashion + Pregnancy + Hope

Rock ON Creativity

2011-06-13T04:59:00.000-07:00

Image 1 via Pinterest via here Image2 via pinterest via here

Yesterday at Thread one of our friends came and visited the Christina Elaine booth. He spoke of his recent love of shelling and finding great rocks. This reminded me of 1. the rock club / collection that my best friend had when we were little and how funny this was and 2. that I want to make lovely bags with crazt crazy cool stones. Sometimes one person saying one thing that brings back a memory or sparks creativity to get you to think of something differently. I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend!

xxx

CEO

Painting on Friday

2011-06-10T09:00:00.000-07:00

Source: zabriskie-point.tumblr.com via Sara on Pinterest

Image Via Here

I have been doing all kinds of experimenting with color and painting leather for my next collection. I am so excited about it. I thought this picture explained it perfectly. This weekend we have a very busy weekend of virtual nesting projects and then Christina Elaine will be selling at Thread and of course a few photoshoot's for 1 pregnancy 140 outfits 1 hope. We are in full June gloom here and I'm loving it. I miss the constant change of seasons that NYC would give me. Are you guys up to anything exciting this weekend? I hope you all have fun and do something creative and inspirational.

Some cool links

We will be going to this exhibit free or not.
The Smithsonian is keeping it real by selling made in the USA read about it here
Art in Bed
Virtual Nesting is coming along any special projects you guys are working on.

xxx
CEO

Moving Clothes Literally.... Video Via Nowness

2011-06-09T06:28:00.000-07:00

Janie Taylor for Chloé on Nowness.com.

I just loved watching this video and watching all the clothes literally dance around. I found this video very inspiring. One thing that really caught my eye was the use of color no extreme colors just subtle changes. Maybe it just reminds me of my dancing days when I was a little girl at ballet. Have a wonderful day!

xxx
CEO

Outift of the Week Featuring Cobalt and Charteruse

2011-06-08T11:46:00.000-07:00

Untitled by ceo cool eclectic original featuring a long blazer

I have been on the hunt for a long white blazer to combine with all my summer dresses and skirts. I haven't found any yet that will work with the belly and work post baby. Will keep you all posted. Any items that you guys are looking for to complete a spring summer ensemble.

Have a wonderful Day!!!!

xxx
CEO

1 pregnancy 140 outfits 1 hope Outfit # 8 Nothing at All

2011-06-08T07:09:00.000-07:00

This post is a reminder "Love yourself". The picture is of darling Sophia who gone on strike against all clothing. She has no regard and is very happy being just her naked self. We made gluten free chocolate chip cookies yesterday and they came out very yummy according to Mr. Olson. I am still getting used to baking without flour.

I wanted touch also on what is motivating me to post lovely outfits. Besides providing fashion inspiration for every person that comes across this blog no matter what they are going through right now, it is to raise awareness of a very special cause for women that do not have the same rights that we have in the United States ( imagine possibly losing your baby after birth because you were too young to give birth). I often look at Sophia and think how grateful that I live in a place that we could have her before Mr. Olson and I were married and not have any legal ramifications and still have rights to my sweet baby. We have so much to be grateful for. What are you all especially grateful for?

Fashion Tip #8 Take the time to enjoy a bath or shower and let your worries wash away.

xxx

CEO

PS. Wanna learn more about our campaign and maybe give us a donation click here. Here is the post explaining what I am doing. Fashion + Pregnancy + Hope

1 pregnancy 140 outfits 1 hope Outfit # 7 A Jeans and t-shirt kinda Day

2011-06-07T05:52:00.000-07:00

(Scarf handmade from morocco, shirt Gap Here, J-brand Jeans Here, bag here)

This weekend we were planning on going to the Pasadena Rose Bowl. Some how Mr. Olson and I had our dates messed up it's this weekend. So we ended up taking photos at a lovely historical residence near by. It was a perfect place to stop and let Sophia run around on the grass. I added a pink scarf to add some punch to the outfit. I am wearing one of my latest Christina Elaine creations the Cornelia Hobo in Grey. It is turning into the perfect spring/ summer bag. In every picture we took I was talking to Sophia about something which explains the expressions.

Fashion Tip#7 When buying clothes don't think of the expense think of the CPW ( Cost Per Wear- term coined by Mr. Olson). For example the jeans I have on were 198.00 this pregnancy alone I have worn them at least 30 times plus my previous pregnancy my CPW is down to about a dollar a wear. Which is nothing for great fitting denim and feeling good while doing it.

xxx

CEO

PS. Wanna learn more about our campaign and maybe give us a donation click here. Here is the post explaining what I am doing. Fashion + Pregnancy + Hope

Virtual Nesting Art in Bed

2011-06-06T21:01:00.000-07:00

Source: browndresswithwhitedots.tumblr.com via Christina on Pinterest

On my vitrual nesting list for our Master Bedroom, one project was to make some art for our bedroom's barren walls. A fine artist I will never claim to be...but I can't contain my creative urges. A few months back I had to urge to paint so I went to Michael's, bought the canvas, painted it and hated it (came out looking like a blob). So when I started virtual nesting I figured I would give it another go and draw what I obsessively and nervously draw all the time...TRIANGLES. Kevin thinks it's funny and people have asked them what they are (he probally rolls his eyes and says my wife is crazy). I just like to draw a bunch of connected triangeles. I draw these on everything... receipts, pieces of paper, bills, you name it. If it's in front of me I will triangle it if I am waiting on hold or talking on the phone or just need to doodle.

So first things first, I re-painted over the old canvas to get it ready to be triangeled (yes I made up a word). Then this morning while Kevin was working and Sophia was sleeping in, I brought the canvas in bed and painted my beloved triangles!

Below is the work in progress and the finished product.

Virtual Nesting Sophia and Kiddo # 2 Room Color

2011-06-06T08:49:00.000-07:00

Source: littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com via Christina on Pinterest

Source: elledecor.com via Christina on Pinterest

I hope you all enjoyed the mess of color above. We are having a hard time picking the two accent walls paint color in case you couldn't tell.. See the kiddo bedroom is in our living space sectioned off by sliding doors so we can't go color crazy. This neon pink loving girl thinks its hard to not make any room to girly. We have finally decided on a color and the color is benjamin moore beacon grey a blue grey with a touch of lavender. In the last photo I am loving the blue with colored art and the touches of gold. This post was ready to be published but instead we went into labor last wednesday.

1 pregnancy 140 outfits 1 hope Outfit # 6

2011-06-06T04:21:00.000-07:00

Outfit Coat( thrift store $6), Top (similar here), Skirt (similar here), Shoes ( Jessica Simpson) Bag (Here)

The weather here has been lovely with a little bit of fog. For a day of running errands and working I thought I would add some drama to the day with a leopard print bag and a thrift DIY coat. This is our 6th outfit for our fundraiser for Hope Village raising awareness for street mother's in Cairo. I am enjoying searching for items in my closet to make outfits out of pieces that I haven't worn in months. It bring back lots of fun memories. The necklace I have on Mr. Olson bought for me on his first trip to visit me while I was in school in London. But what really keeps me going is the motivation that through the awareness that I create in all these posts mother's and children will have a better life.

Fashion Tip # 6 A little DIY reworking of a thrift store item can make anything fit

xxx

CEO

PS If you want to donate to 1 pregnancy 140 outfits 1 hope click here every single dollar counts... A Huge Huge Huge cyber hug to all of the people who have donated and supported this campaign.

Getting Inspired This Weekend

2011-06-03T04:26:00.000-07:00

Source: dreamsicleday.tumblr.com via Marinette on Pinterest

Have a Happy Happy Weekend everyone. I hope everyone does one activity that makes them smile. We will be shooting for 1 pregnancy 140 outfits 1 hope this weekend along with seeking inspiration. This project has been such an inspiration knowing that I can use fashion and my love of style to raise awareness for pregnant women. Thank you Thank you to everyone who has supported the campaign. It means so much to me personally and especially the women of Hope Village.
xxx
CEO

Outfit of the Week..... Seeking Comfort When Designing

2011-06-02T05:57:00.000-07:00

Untitled by ceo cool eclectic original featuring snake handbags

I am currently in the lovely process of developing new bags. I always like to be comfortable when making mood boards and seeking out special design inspiration. I love the lightly printed flower shoes in this outfit. I might have to add some floral to my spring / summer wardrobe.

xxx
CEO

Virtual Nesting Project # 1 Curtain Search

2011-06-02T05:36:00.000-07:00

Source: ocean.nationalgeographic.com via Christina on Pinterest

The lovely photo above was one of my inspirations for the room. I love it and all the depth and color. I wrote about our lovely blue grey walls here. But we still need drapes for the built in closets and the one lonely window. I found this amazing bedding at anthropology ( will show when we take final room pictures) on sale. I love it but it has lots of colors blue, green, cream. A printed drapery won't work. Once we settled on the bedding I had to find drapes. So I have bought no less than 6 different trial drapes it started these target ones which looked a little cheap and were too short ( we didn't want to pay for online shipping), then we took IKEA by storm for a bunch of major fails.

Source: ikea.com via Christina on Pinterest

The idea of making sheets into curtains crossed our minds too. The colors didn't work with the bedding or with the new paint.

Source: ikea.com via Christina on Pinterest

Then on a return trip back to Ikea we found the "ones". This story is starting to sound like a really bad string of awful dates in New York. The kind that you go on just to talk to your friends about. Please meet Sanela. The perfect curtain that was waiting for us to look at her. We got them on sale to for $ 49.99. more then we really wanted to spend but they are nice and thick and comparable in price to making our own.

Source: ikea.com via Christina on Pinterest

I wanted to show you guys the curtains installed and beautiful but we need to buy a say to cut the rods for the built in closets. Mr. Olson say tonight. Can't wait to share them with you all.

Wanna read more about this project or all of our nesting projects check out here and here.

Have a lovely day!

xxx
CEO

1 pregnancy 140 outfits 1 hope Outfit # 5 Fountain Fun

2011-06-01T09:37:00.000-07:00

I got this J-crew peasant top right after I had Sophia. It is definitely one of my go to shirts. For this outfit it seemed right to stick with the brown accents and let the jeans make the whole outfit more comfortable and casual. I love the necklace that my friend Rana bought from Sundanese refugees and was kind enough to give me. This project has been such a pleasure so far and I am so excited to see where it will go. I am loving sharing my fashion advice while raising awareness for a cause that is dear to my heart.

Fashion Tip #5 Play up one color way in accent pieces for a more neutral outfit.

Hope Village Fact # 5 Hope Village trains street mother's in trades to be self sustaining.

xxx

CEO

PS. Wanna learn more about our campaign and maybe give us a donation click here. Here is the post explaining what I am doing. Fashion + Pregnancy + Hope

1 pregnancy 140 outfits 1 hope Outfit # 4 All Aboard

2011-05-31T07:56:00.000-07:00

(Jeans Here, Tank here, Thrifted Top, Gucci Vintage bag)

Yesterday we headed downtown to take some photos for our 1 pregnancy 140 outfits 1 hope campaign. I wore some non maternity really old citizens of humanity jeans, a white glamormom nursing top, and a thrifted top that I got for a mere $4.00 that I turned into a cardigan. Thank you all for the support we

have gotten. We are so touched and appreciative.

Fashion Tip #4 Converting Vintage finds is an excellent way to save $$ and create YOUR own look

Hope Village will be using the money we raise to create a safe environment for street mother's to give birth.

Have a lovely day!

Wanna learn more about our campaign click here our post explaining what we are doing is here

xxx

CEO

Long Family Weekend

2011-05-30T21:37:00.000-07:00

Source: itssimplelove.blogspot.com via Christina on Pinterest

I had a fun filled weekend with my whole family who got to spend some time together. It was so nice to see everyone and catch up. It was especially exciting to see 5 kiddos under five play together so much fun. Today was spent catchng up on work with Mr. Olson. We shot photos for 1 pregnancy 140 outfits 1 hope ( thank you all for the amazing support for this charity) along with crossing off some to dos on our virtual nesting list.

xxx
CEO

Outfit # 3 Bring on the Blue Bump

2011-05-27T15:18:00.000-07:00

Dress Anthropologie, belt J-crew, cuff a fabulous gift.

We took these about a week ago and Mr. Olson's sisters graduation. The graduation and ceremony were beautiful. It is always special going to Marymount because it is were Mr. Olson and I met and where we got engaged. Here are some shots we took and of course Sophia was too cute not to include.

Fashion Tip # 3 Always remember to create long lean silhouettes in whatever clothes you put on.

Don't forget to check out our campaign on Indie gogo and enter to win a Christina Elaine bag. After all this is the reason behind all the outfits and the posts.

I hope everyone has a wonderful Memorial Day spent with family and loved ones.

xxx

CEO

15 weeks of Fashion for Hope Village Society Outfit # 2

2011-05-26T07:19:00.000-07:00

I am so overwhelmed with sheer gratitude at the response our Hope Village Project has gotten after a day. Thank you Thank you Thank you. For this shot I told Mr. Olson I wanted to wear this Foley and Corrina dress (I got when pregnant with Sophia for 60.00 at a sample sale) that I wanted an open field with lovely flowers. We found this outside of a little league park random but pretty.

Pregnancy Fashion Tip #2 Buying regular clothes a size bigger allows for tummy growth and reusing them when you aren't pregnant. ( I am all about getting my cost per wear down as low as possible, that is how Mr. Olson judges my clothing expenses)

Hope Village Info - Hope village the cause behind all of these outfits posts provides a safe haven for abused street mother's to receive the proper medical, psychological, and educational training. Imagine being between 11-18 on the street and pregnant.

Fashion Question pregnant or not when at a sale will you buy a piece of clothing too big and tailor it or walk away from it?

xxx
CEO

Virtual Nesting Project 1 Sleeping in Grey

2011-05-26T06:39:00.000-07:00

Source: weheartit.com via Christina on Pinterest

For the a long while we have been working on our bedroom which once was Sophia's bedroom and now is the Lovely master bedroom ( in our barely 500 sq foot home). We built built in closets ( well lovely Mr. Olson did) and now it was time to pick a paint color ( I always like a design distraction when we are producing bags it's usually our house and it drives Mr. Olson CRAZY). I thought my eyes might glaze over if I had to look at our egg shell white one more day. So I called my resident interior designer on staff.....my step mom and asked her for a good grey that would look great in a small space she said Benjamin Moore Balboa mist then I cruised around pinterest for some grey interiors and I found this image (see below) which I love using Benjamin Moore Moonshine. The color is nice and warm.

Source: visiogallery.com via Patricia on Pinterest

So Sophia and I piled into the van and went to Home Depot to buy some paint samples of Benjamin Moore Balboa Mist and Moonshine. We painted the wall in three places (see photo below) and on every wall surprise surprise the paint looked different on every wall. Mr. Olson and I thought that balboa mist was a little too similar to the color we had and we really liked blue hues in Moonshine but maybe we should try another sample color? So I stopped over ( spending time cruising blogs the week before a big show is a NO NO) at Young House Love because I thought they just did a grey living area to see which color they used and it was Benjamin Moore Moonshine.

So the decision was made it was moonshine. Now time to paint. Sophia went to Nanny and Papas one afternoon and Mr. Olson and I got to work. We got it all done except the back wall behind our bed. so we had to go back the next weekend and do it

Here is a picture of our paint job once it was done. This weekend we should be done with the exception of the light or headboard unless some really really easy and cheap DIY looks come our way. How do you guys decide paint colors? It is a long process short do you like to stare at them for a while?

Have a grey day (heehe it is foggy here)

xxx
CEO

PS. We used Low VOC Paint and it really emitted little to no odor.

1 Pregnancy 140 Outfits 1 Hope Fundraiser (Via Christina Elaine)

2011-05-25T06:49:00.000-07:00

(pants Jbrand, top forever21, cardigan J-crew,belt, H&M, Bag Christina Elaine)

Welcome to my first Hope Village fundraising outfit post. I will be posting outfits for the next 105 days of my pregnancy. Since I was pregnant with Sophia I decided I wanted to do outfit posts of stylish maternity clothes for moms on a budget. I want to give maternity fashion advice and just overall fashion styling tips along with raising awareness for a mother/ child oriented cause that touched my heart. These photos were take by Mr. Olson right at my 20 week mark. We will have about 3 catch up posts then the photos will be in real time. We had a lot of logistical things to figure out on our end before we could launch the fundraiser.

After traveling to Egypt on three separate occasion I became immensely aware of the great obstacles facing street children in Egypt. This was especially apparent on my third trip with an eight month old Sophia. As a mother my heart went out to homeless mother's who find themselves facing great abuse on Egypt's streets, even after escaping abusive home environments. I am determined to bring awareness to this devastating issue so I have partnered in a fundraising campaign with the Young Mother's Shelter of Hope Village Society in Egypt. I will be posting 140 maternity outfits that I have made or thrifted or already had for the remaining 105 days of my pregnancy to provide financial support while bring awareness to the growing problems and social stigmas faced by street mothers.

I hope you enjoy this project and my outfits as much as I have been enjoying creating it. If you want to donate and enter to win a Christina Elaine bag at the end please click on the button in my sidebar or go the the campaign page.

I would like to give a very very special thanks to Rana and Rami who made the video and are in Egypt right now without them this whole campaign would not have been possible.

Fashion tip 1.The belt accentuates the waist and takes away the mu mu feel.

Thank you so very much for the support.

xxxx
CEO

Versatile Blogger Award

2011-05-23T22:49:00.000-07:00

Thank you so much to Alexa and Kirby from The Short and Sweet of it for giving me my first blog award. I am so touched. Thank you thank you. I sometimes feel a little misplaced in this blog world I am not a fashion blogger, I am not an interior blogger, and I'm not a mom blogger. Though I write about all these things. So here is goes seven things about Christina the person, blogger, mom, wife, and designer.

Source: denizyazicioglu.tumblr.com via Christina on Pinterest

These are some of the words I live by. I would rather have nothing instead of something I kinda like.

Source: inspireddecorating.blogspot.com via Christina on Pinterest

As an entrepreneur this is how I feel often LOST. Not sure what the best decision to make is. And with a car full of handbags that I am lugging around.

Source: mypinkcloud.tumblr.com via Christina on Pinterest

Being active in nature is a huge source of inspiration for my handbag line. It helps create a clean slate to work from and create. Though I miss city life immensely the pacific ocean is always inspiring.

Source: iloveblancoblog.com via Christina on Pinterest

I love the rain. Even living in London I still loved the rain. It is a nice change of pace and the fresh air after the rain is the best.

I love being a mom more than I ever ever imagined but could take or leave being pregnant the months of sickness ugg. (picture is of me at 8.5 months with Sophia)

Source: flickr.com via Christina on Pinterest

It makes my day when Mr Olson comes home on Friday with $5.00 flowers from the farmers market that he picked out.

I am so grateful that I get to hang out with these three other people all the time, Sophia, Mr.Olson, and a Christina Elaine handbag.

And here are some blogs that I have been loving lately. I know you will love them too.

Hope you enjoyed this.... as much as I enjoyed putting it together.

xxx

CEO

Virtual Nesting Come Along on Our Nesting Journey

2011-05-23T06:35:00.000-07:00

Source: annadaniele.tumblr.com via Christina on Pinterest

I am always coming up with wonderful things for Mr. Olson to make for our teeny tiny house. The phrase " I just got the best idea" is literally his worst nightmare. So Mr. Olson suggested that for the rest of my pregnancy ( the next 15 + weeks) I have an area of my blog called virtual nesting. So I figured I would take all my blog readers along the journey of how this family of almost 4 is going to live comfortably in barely 500 sq feet. Writing down our square footage scares me and sends me into a panic that we will have a toddler, and an infant here........ So here is the list of TO DO's that we are going to try and get done before the second little bundle of joy rocks our world. This will be done on a very very tight budget... since every spare penny we have literally goes into developing my dream Christina Elaine ( There are a lot of sacrifices to following your dreams).

Master Bedroom
Paint
Build built in closets for more space
Make Headboard
Make curtains
Make a DIY Light
Switch the rugs
Hang pictures
Make art to put on our barren walls
Print wedding pictures to put on walls ( I know we are so lame)
Organize and get rid of stuff we don't need from our closet.

Shared Kids Bedroom
Build a lofted bed for Sophia
Build a built in changing table - ( this should be fun)
Paint
Decorate the wall with something fun
Make curtains
Clean out toys
Find a place for everything :)

Bathroom
Take out the floor
Replace the fixtures ( since we only have a cold water sink
Build a built in medicine cabinet
Paint
Find a fun mirror for free

Kitchen
New Sink and appliances ( I'm dreaming on this one)
Paint the cabinets white
Get hardware for the cabinets
Move the junk on top of the refrigerator

Laundry Room ( biggest Project)
Get a tankless water heater ( or move our water heater)
Build shelving/ laundry room/ pantry
Paint
Frost the windows
Paint the floor

Living Room ( Our house has three rooms)
Paint
Arrange furniture so the space works for our family
Build a reclaimed wood dining table
Build a reclaimed wood console table to store lots of stuff
Dreaming of a seating / sofa sectional redesign
Curtains
Hang Pictures
Make some art

Outside
Pavers where the lawn in always dead
Build a Playhouse for Sophia
Cement the fire pit
Paint the exterior a really really cute color

Wish us luck. Let me know if you have ever had a case of serious nesting?

xxx
CEO

Outfit of the Week Blush Tones

2011-05-19T07:08:00.000-07:00

Untitled by ceo cool eclectic original featuring rock crystal jewelry

T Bags t bags dress, $210
TopShop blazer jacket, $118
Flower sandal, $56
Gold plated bracelet, 125 GBP
Larkspur Hawk rock crystal jewelry, $850

This Saturday we have Mr. Olson's little sisters graduation. I am loving all the blush nude pink tones in this outfit. I especially think the dress is a great deal $210.00 for a long jersey dress. I hope that everyone is having a wonderful week. What items are you adding to your closet this spring/ summer season? I haven't figured it out yet so please inspire me.

Source: d3uwin5q170wpc.cloudfront.net via Christina on Pinterest

xxx
CEO

Ok I admit... I love Neon Pink

2011-05-17T04:36:00.000-07:00

Source: theglitterguide.tumblr.com via Christina on Pinterest

Source: seesawdesigns.blogspot.com via Christina on Pinterest

Source: elle.com via Christina on Pinterest

Source: jacombe.tumblr.com via Christina on Pinterest

I have really been loving all the neon that is everywhere this spring summer. It reminds me of being a little kid in the 80's. Mr. Olson and I while doing a home project this weekend had a great laugh about hypercolor t-shirts does anyone remember those? I thought they were so weird he thought they were genius go figure. Then it got me to thinking about LA Gear! I'll leave you with this image. Happy Tuesday!

Source: theberry.com via Christina on Pinterest

xxx
CEO

Outfit of the Week Add Some Acqua Accessories

2011-05-11T09:19:00.000-07:00

Untitled by ceo cool eclectic original featuring leather handbags

I am loving the bit of color from the bracelet and the clutch.I am so excited for tonight. My very first speaking arrangement about Christina Elaine on a Mom entrepreneur panel. It is going to be such a great learning experience. I am so excited. Thanks so much Jan from Ladies who Launch for plugging me into this. Enjoy the rest of your week.

xxxx
CEO

A quote for the day

2011-05-11T02:24:00.000-07:00

Source: madamecupcake.tumblr.com via Pinterest on Pinterest

I found this quote and thought it was perfect for today. I hope everyone has a lovely creative day.

xxx
CEO
*Image via Madame Cupcake

Am I really

2011-05-10T09:57:00.000-07:00

Source: flickr.com via Gabi on Pinterest

I love this quote I thought it rang so true. There is always alot of insecurity that comes with creating anything in life. I often ask myself am a really a Mom and a handbag designer? All you designers and creators out there keep in doing what your doing. Happy Tuesday!

xxx
CEO

Happy Monday

2011-05-09T06:10:00.000-07:00

Source: lenscratch.blogspot.com via Erin on Pinterest

I hope everyone had a wonderful Mother's Day. I know I did I spent the morning with Sophia at Unique LA and it was so much fun to have her there. Unique La was wonderful and a success on many many levels. I loved meeting the other vendors and talking and sharing with them. Today will be spent going to Sophia's music class then pretty much relaxing after the show. We have have been going at full speed here. Have a wonderful Monday. Please fill me in on your Mother's Day's all you Mama's out there.

xxx
CEO

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T06:32:00.000-07:00

Source: weheartit.com via Danica on Pinterest

This week I have been clearly thinking in polka dots. I loved this image it made me smile. We had a great day yesterday at Unique La. Thank you thank you a thousand times over to anyone who came out to Unique La yesterday. Today I will be there selling more Christina Elaine accessories with sweet Sophia.

xxx
CEO

Unique LA Day 1 Outfit

2011-05-06T05:34:00.000-07:00

Untitled by ceo cool eclectic original featuring an eyelet dress

Here is what I plan on wearing to Unique LA on Saturday. I hope to see any of your Los Angeles readers there.

xxx
CEO

Splendid Quote

2011-05-06T05:26:00.000-07:00

Source: alifemorefabulous.blogspot.com via Erin on Pinterest

xx
CEO