Color Inspiration: White the Right Way

Before we know it Labor Day will be here and our chance to wear white will be gone.  Some people avoid white all together thinking it looks too summery, too cold, too stark, or just too hard to keep clean.  White is quite elegant however and is even embraced by our friend the gilded panther.

If you are going to rock white, go all out.  Look how sharp Mel B and hubby look in head to toe white.  I love her white jeans with simple white tank and oversize jewelry.

I don't know why, but I've always wanted a pair of white gogo boots.  How darling are these with a graphic print mini skirt!

Not brave enough for the gogo boots?  These elegant strappy sandals in white will dress up everything from a sundress, business suit or your favorite jeans.

I've always been a fan of Mies van der Rohe's Barcelona Chair.

It is especially elegant in white leather!

White accessories are a fun accent in home decor.

These fabulous porcelain vases are by one of my favorites, Jonathan Adler.

There is something about an all-white bathroom I've always loved.

The look is just so clean and relaxing.

Everyone should have a set of all white dishes.  They're just so easy and so much fun

to mix and match.  You can change out your table linens for a new look.  Food looks lovely on a white field.

Don't be afraid of a little white... even after Labor Day.

-The Panther

Portland Patios: 21st Ave. Bar and Grill

The Panther was prowling around Northwest last night and it had been a while since she last visited NW 21st Ave.  Portlander's know that NW 21st Ave. is known as restaurant row.  As the panther strolled the avenue a sign with the words "Patio Open" caught her attention.  It was a pleasant evening and sitting outdoors sounded perfect.  Many of the restaurants along 21st have sidewalk tables, but an actual patio sounded appealing.  She followed the patio sign which led her to the 21st Ave. Bar and Grill.

She entered the cozy space and followed the signs back to the outdoor patio area.  What a pleasant surprise!  The patio was a large space with multi-level decks centered around a lovely little water feature and pond.  String lights adorned the trees, and up-lights illuminated the landscape and created lovely shadows.  The sound of the waterfall was soothing and relaxing.  The greenery was lush and well thought out.
                                      

Not only was the patio a delight, the Panther indulged in a delicious meal.  She opted for the baked mac and cheese, sauteed mushrooms, and a fresh northwest salad.  Everything was tasty and fresh.  The cocktail menu was extensive too which is always appreciated. 

21st Ave. Bar and Grill was a pleasant stop on bustling 21st Ave.  Beautiful patio, tasty food, and good drinks. 

21st Ave. Bar and Grill
721 NW 21st Ave.
Portland
http://www.21stbarandgrill.com/

-The Panther

Daydreaming of the Oregon Coast

The panther is lucky to live in one of the most beautiful, scenic states.  Oregon has it all:  mountains, valleys, plains, desserts, and the most stunning coast line.  Today she is dreaming of the rocky, rugged Oregon Coast.

View from Cape Falcon

Cannon Beach's iconic Haystack Rock

Yaquina Head Lighthouse near Newport

Sea Lion Caves near Florence

Southern Oregon's beaches near Brookings

Stunning Oregon Coast Sunset

Sweet Daydreaming!

-The Panther



Just Peachy

Here in Oregon, peach season is in full effect and boy do I love good fresh peaches!  While at the farmer's market last weekend, I prowled the aisles sampling all of the peaches.  There are so many varieties, some sweet, some tart, some firm, some soft, but all with that undeniably yummy peach goodness.  I ended up with a bag of  "Sweet Sue's".  They are a large, slightly firm but very juicy peach packed with flavor.

I ate one before I even walked back to the car, and another one as soon as I got home, but here are some recipes I used with the rest of them.

Peach Habanero Salsa
3 large ripe peaches:   peeled, pitted, skins removed, and minced
1/2 habanero chile:   seeded and finely minced (these are extremely hot!  Maybe start with less and add more to taste.  Use caution while cutting habaneros.)
2 tablespoons finely minced red onion
Juice of 1 lime
1 tablespoon light brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
salt to taste

Gently mix together all ingredients in large bowl.  Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours.

homemade peach habanero salsa

This salsa is amazing.  I put it over grilled pork tenderloin and it was by far the best thing I've ever had in my life.  Also good on chicken or fish or just with chips.

I love grilling peaches.  You may remember a recipe we shared with you earlier with grilled peaches drizzled with amaretto over vanilla bean ice cream and sprinkled with crumbled amaretti cookies.  That dish is heavenly.  I found another grilled peach dinner recipe from allrecipes.com.  The site describes this recipe, "This is a deliciously simple end to a grilled meal.  Peaches are grilled with a balsamic glaze, then served up with crumbled blue cheese.  A sophisticated, extremely simple recipe that's perfect for summer entertaining!"

Grilled Peaches

3 tablespoons white sugar

3/4 cup balsamic vinegar

2 teaspoons freshly ground black peppercorns

2 large fresh peaches with peel, halved and pitted

2 1/2 ounces blue cheese, crumbled

1.  In a saucepan over medium heat, stir together the white sugar, balsamic vinegar, and pepper.  Simmer until liquid has reduced by one half.  It should become slightly thicker.  Remove from heat, and set aside.

2.  Preheat grill for medium-high heat.

3.  Lightly oil the grill grate.  Place peaches on the prepared grill, cut side down.  Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the flesh is caramelized.  Turn peaches over.  Brush the top sides with the balsamic glaze, and cook for another 2 - 3 minutes.

4.  Transfer the peach halves to individual serving dishes, and drizzle with remaining glaze.  Sprinkle with crumbled blue cheese.

Grilled balsamic-glazed peaches with crumbled blue cheese

Enjoy!

-The Panther

Color Inspiration: Hot Pink

While at the neighborhood farmer's market this weekend, I came across a bouquet of the most beautiful hot pink dahlias.  I was so taken by the lovely hue, I had to buy them.  Hot pink is indeed hot, and now is the time to rock that color while summer is still here.  Here are some hot pink items to inspire you.

My hot pink dahlias... so pretty!

This hot pink dress by Betsey Johnson is so cute and feminine.

How much do love this satin anemone pump by Christian Louboutin!

This is the perfect shoe to wear to a late summer wedding.

This cute fitted blazer in hot pink will definitely get you noticed.

Finish any outfit off with a classic Chanel purse.

I picture this one with jeans, black stilettos, and a crisp white tank shirt.

Hot pink make-up is soft and feminine and compliments most skin tones.

Don't forget hot pink nails!

Enjoy the days of late summer and rock the hot pink!

-The Panther

Friday Favorites: Flea Market Finds

It is Paris Flea Market time again at Bellagio Interiors in Lake Oswego, Oregon!  The Panther loves a good flea market.  Today and tomorrow at Bellagio there are hundreds of fabulous flea market finds.  There are tapestries, vintage table linens, chandeliers, candelabras, antique candlesticks, knick-knacks, architectural elements, vintage clothing, and so much more.  Check out some of these awesome finds the panther has her eyes on at Bellagio's Paris Flea Market this weekend.

Vintage carved marble and alabaster lamps

An interesting, well made lamp is always a good find, and these lamps are spectacular!  These classic carved lamps can fit into any decor.  Traditional?...add a black tapered shade for a stately, timeless look.  More contemporary?...top one of these lamps with a funky drum shade for a fun juxtaposition of looks.

Flower Pots

Remember the Panther's blog post about making over boring flower pots?

http://thegildedpanther.blogspot.com/2011/06/crafty-cat-flower-pot-make-over.html

These pots are just waiting for someone's imagination and a coat or two of paint to transform them into something one-of-a-kind and spectacular!

crystal-drop candelabra

This piece is simply fabulous!  So feminine and fun, this vintage candelabra would look amazing in

a bedroom, dining room, powder room...anywhere! 

Imagine glamming this up even more with mini clip shades on the lights.  Stunning!

Interesting Old Frames

The Panther is always on the prowl for these!  So much can be done with empty frames...

Fill them with your own art or have mirror cut for the frame.  Leave them empty and hang an assortment of them on a wall or stairwell.  Or fill with a cork board or chalk board.  Do you remember the crafty cat's blog about making your own chalkboard?  Check it out.

http://thegildedpanther.blogspot.com/2011/02/crafty-cat-decorative-chalk-board.html

Etched Glass Decanter with Spigot

The panther is drooling over this find!  This lovely glass decanter has the word 'Paris" etched on it.  Perfect for your next party!  How lovely would this piece be filled with ice water and floating lemon slices!  Or fill it with the beverage of your choice.  Gorgeous!

Vintage Fur Coat

How darling is this little number!  Feel like a Parisian woman as you stroll the streets of Portland in this fabulous vintage fur coat with mink trim.  Whether with your little black dress for a night on the town or simply with jeans and stilettos for a shopping excursion, this coat is adorable!

Read the Panther's past post about "Seeing Spots".

http://thegildedpanther.blogspot.com/2011/03/seeing-spots.html

With so many treasures to 'paw' through, there is something for everyone.  Bring your imagination and check it out.

Paris Flea Market at Bellagio Interiors

145 A Ave.

Lake Oswego, OR  97034

Friday, August 19, 2011

9:00 - 5:00

and

Saturday, August 20, 2011

9:00 - 5:00

See you There!

-The Panther

Happy Harlequin

The other day I was reading Design*Sponge, one of my favorite blogs, and it mentioned a new harlequin line by Ferm Living.  I've always loved the harlequin pattern and decided to share some harlequin inspiration today.
Read the post on Design*Sponge:  http://www.designsponge.com/2011/08/new-ferm-living-fallwinter-2011.html

The harlequin pattern is simply repeating diamonds but it is classic and bold.  Named for the court jesters of yore who often dressed in suits of the diamond pattern in bright colors or high-contrasting black and white. 

Today harlequin is used in parquet wood floors, tiles, and textiles, and is done in every color combination you can imagine.

I love this tone on tone wall treatment in an oversized harlequin pattern.

This backsplash in black and white diamond-shaped ceramic tiles is a fun accent in this kitchen.

I love the whimsical feel of these harlequin lamps.

What about this area rug with a harlequin field.



How darling are these harlequin tights!

Who wouldn't love a gift wrapped in pretty harlequin paper.

Have fun with harlequin!

-The Panther