Dreaming Of Blueberry Pie

How delicious is a piece of warm homemade fruit pie? Made with hand picked berries or fruit ripe from the tree. The pastry should be rich, buttery and golden and the filling should be full of firm, plump fruit sprinkled with a dash of sugar and a pinch of spice. Use fruit that it's season for a dessert that's sure to keep your guests coming back for a second slice!

Melissah xox

Images via 1-2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

Provincial Living

 

As an interior designer, I love decorating in the French Provincial style. I like the mix of easy elegance and rustic charm. I like things that have a timeless, pre-loved feel about them - nothing too new and shiny. I think pieces that are bit worn and frayed around the edges have added character and personality. I love the look of old stone, recycled timbers and antique furniture. I love the feel of natural fibres like hemp, cotton and linen in earthy tones such as beige, bone, cream and taupe. These colours all come into their own when mixed back with lots of white.

Melissah xox

Images via 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 

A Day in the Country

 

 

Escape the everyday and take off on adventure to the countryside. Collect ideas from the Sunday papers and your favourite mags on tips for things to do on an idle weekend and places to stay. I have a folder full of ideas ranging from country retreats, to beautiful rainforest walks, National Parks, places to hire horses, bikes and canoes, secluded lakes, cosy log cabins and sweet, little cottages. When there's a free weekend we book somewhere that takes our fancy and head off in search of a relaxed weekend and life's simple pleasures!

Melissah xox

Images via 1-2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

A Weekend Bike Ride

The most beautiful discoveries are often made by chance and are best shared with someone close. Packing a light hamper and setting out for a romantic day exploring the countryside just may lead to the unexpected. On past adventures, casual meanderings have lead to beautiful waterfalls, inspiring art galleries, quaint tea houses and idyllic picnic spots Guided by nothing more than a sense of curiosity, you can follow whatever path pleases you. The countryside has an uncanny way of leading to the most wonderful places. 

Melissah

Images via 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

Vintage White

I love the old world charm of vintage pieces - things that tell a story and add character and warmth to a house. Ever since I was a little girl I have always loved fairy wings, tutus and satin ballet slippers so I am loving these vintage versions. Starting off my career as a fashion designer, I also love the vintage calico dressmaking mannequins from when couture was at it's peak. A few of these quirky vintage finds dotted around the home will give it personality and a sense of style that is unique to it's owners. 

Melissah

Images via Vintage and Morrhar check it out for some heavenly Swedish inspiration!

My Secret Garden

Spring is one of my favourite times of year when the birds are chirping, the bees are busy making honey and the fields are golden with flowers. It's the perfect time to give the garden some much needed love and attention after being somewhat neglected over the winter months. Nothing is more inviting than the garden in springtime when the grass is green and fragrant, the trees are bursting with new growth and the flowers are blooming. It's a perfect spot for late brunch on a sunny day or an afternoon nap under a shady tree!

Melissah xox

Images via 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

Sunday Picnic

Sundays are a perfect opportunity to veer off the beaten track in search of a pretty meadow or a river bank basking in the day's welcoming sun. Settle in among the daisies swaying gently in the breeze and let the hours unravel over delicious home baked goodies and lazy conversation. Go for a wander and skip stones in the river before the winding country road lures you back to city life and the working week!

Melissah xox

Images via 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 

Hot House Flowers

Today I am loving these romantic dresses ~

so pretty and feminine.

Perfect for spring with layers of

ruffles, chiffon and lace.

Melissah xox

Images via Olivia Graham

Check out Country Style Chic on tumblr and Pinterest

Shabby Chic

The beauty of imperfections, the allure of well loved time-worn objects, and the appeal of simple practical living are the trademarks of the 'Shabby Chic' brand. Flea market finds, vintage pieces, hand painted furniture, faded velvets, old lace and mismatched floral china - things one might find in your grandma's attic, are all synonymous with the Shabby Chic label. Designer Rachel Ashwell founded Shabby Chic in 1989 on the philosophy of beauty, comfort, and function. She set up her first store in  California and has since gone on to write a series of books and open up lifestyle stores throughout the world.

Having followed Rachel from the beginning, she has had a huge influence on me as a designer. Although my design work is now more modern and stream lined I still love the prettiness, femininity and rustic charm that is associated with the shabby chic label. 

Melissah xox

Images via Shabby Chic