Soft Spoken

Welcome to Soft Surroundings Summer! We are in a Turks & Caicos state of mind. Sea breezes, white powdery sand, turquoise water, conch shells on the beach to gather every morning – such a glorious place! I hope you can find a little piece of it for yourself from this collection.

Our trip to France was fantastic and so inspirational. We gathered a unique and exciting range of antiques, fashion direction and beautiful jewelry – some of which will begin to sell with the mid-September mailing of our Home Catalog. Be sure to visit the Brocante/Antiques category at SoftSurroundings.com under Home Furnishing for a hint at what’s to come.

Thanks to all of you who followed us on Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

Happy Summer!

Robin Sheldon
President & Founder Soft Surroundings
robin@SoftSurroundings.com

“Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely, but loudly proclaiming– WOW– What a Ride!“

How would you describe your style?

Bohemian & Casual

Who in your life has inspired you most?

My Mother

What is your secret indulgence?

Time…crocheting or hand-building pottery.

Where is your favorite place to travel?

Spain and Puerto Vallarta

What is the best advice you’ve ever received?

“Love Freely.”

What one clothing item is worth splurging for?

Jacket or Boots & Shoes

What is one fashion rule you always abide by?

Be comfy!

What is one fashion rule that was made to be broken?

The rule that says every season you need new clothing. I go for pieces that will be good for many seasons.

Do you have a signature scent?

Vanilla, patchouli and lavender (mixed)!

How do you unwind?

Crochet, pottery, time with grandbabies.

What are you most proud of?

My daughters and My Mother!

How would you describe the decor of your house?

Artsy

What’s your passion project or hobby?

Crochet and pottery.

How has your style evolved over the years?

In the 80s I tried to be “preppy” (but it didn’t work), in the 90′s more “motherly” (no sex appeal) and now just working myself into a boho-comfy style.

What’s your beauty routine?

Wash face and hair…hair air dries. Makeup consists of foundation, a touch of eye shadow and some mascara….done in under 15 min!

Do you have a signature accessory?

Sunglasses & bandanas in my hair.

Who influenced your personal style?

My Mother

Quote to live by?

“Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming — WOW– What a Ride!”

What is your favorite Soft Surroundings product?

Coachella boots

“Forgiveness is the fragrance shed by violets on the heels that crush them.“

What three words best describe your style?

Simple, elegant, vibrant.

My idea of a perfect day is. . . ?

Conducting a workshop and having all of the attendees get new ideas on how to be more effective and empowered.

Who has most inspired your fashion sense?

My Mother

What one fashion rule do you always abide by?

Coordinate, not necessarily matching. No silver, black or red.

The biggest fashion faux pas (mistake) I ever made was. . .

Buying a dress that was unflattering.

What article of clothing is at the top of your shopping list?

Dress pants with a 32-inch inseam.

Describe what’s in your travel beauty bag.

Make-up!

The best beauty advice I ever received was. . .

Be classic, not trendy. So, classic clothes sometimes in trendy designs.

Name your signature scent.

Rose

How do you unwind?

Reading

Where is your favorite place to travel?

San Diego

Do you have a passion project or hobby?

Spiritual development, taking the best of the seven major world religions.

Describe the most memorable gift you’ve ever received.

Beautiful purple skirted suit with top from a colleague.

How has your style evolved over the years?

No more costume jewelry.

One item I never leave the house without. . .

Amethyst ring

Quote to live by?

“Forgiveness is the fragrance shed by violets on the heels that crush them.”

What is your favorite Soft Surroundings product?

Long skirts in jewel tones.

Submit your “My Style Profile – Home Edition” to be featured on our Blog and a special tab on our Facebook page.

“A home is defined by the people who live in it. If there is peace, the whole home lights up!“

How would you describe your home’s décor?

Modern Vintage Hybrid

What inspires your design style?

European designs with some fresh clean lines.

Is there a specific city or time period that has most influenced your home décor?

Florence, Italy

Where are your favorite places to shop for YOUR home?

Ballard Designs, Pottery Barn, Hobby Lobby, and Soft Surroundings.

What colors are your current favorite to decorate with?

Neutrals and creams with solid blacks to define and then splashes of color.

What is your favorite room in your house?

Living Room

If you could pick one room to redo, which would it be, and why?

The walls in the kitchen and den need serious work and need new carpet is needed badly.

What piece in your home is most precious to you?

My Mother’s piano.

What one statement piece would you love to have in your home?

I would love to have a really classic designed buffet in our kitchen.

What home item is worth splurging on?

Any, if it really has the right design and elements to it.

How do you make your home feel welcoming?

Candles, soft colors, and Jesus!

What do you think creates a comfortable, relaxing atmosphere?

A home is defined by the people who live in it. If there is peace, the whole home lights up!

What one piece of decorating advice you would share with others?

Simplify

How do you celebrate the most important woman in your life? By appreciating her not one – but 365 days a year! For that special day for all moms, give her something meaningful – and that doesn’t mean it has to cost a fortune! Give her something that will make her feel luxurious, loved and reminded of how much she means to you.

Mother's Day Gift: Flowers

Mother's Day Gift: Jewelry

Mother's Day Gift: Fragrance

Mother's Day Gift: Spa Treatment

Mother's Day Gift: Beauty Products

Mother's Day Gift: Tasty Treats

Mother's Day Gift: Candles

Mother's Day Gift: Accessories

Mother's Day Gift: Home Decor

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“Flip flops CAN be stylish!“

How would you describe your style?

Classic with a touch of funky.

What is your secret indulgence?

Massages

Where is your favorite place to travel?

The Caribbean

What is the best beauty advice you’ve ever received?

Always wash your makeup off.

What one clothing item is worth splurging for?

Jackets

What is one fashion rule you always abide by?

Not to dress like I’m still in my twenties.

What is one fashion rule that was made to be broken?

Flip flops CAN be stylish!

Do you have a signature scent?

Beyond Paradise by Estee Lauder in the summer and Liz in the winter.

How do you unwind?

Relaxing in the hot tub or listening to good music.

What are you most proud of?

My children

How would you describe the decor of your house?

West Indies in most rooms, some Italian in the kitchen.

What’s your passion project or hobby?

Gardening

How has your style evolved over the years?

Because I’ve developed Fibromyalgia, I have come to value comfort more. I’ve also become more aware of what I like instead of what the current fad is.

What’s your beauty routine?

I work from home, so most days I just put on a bit of anti-wrinkle serum and leave the makeup for business meetings.

Do you have a signature accessory?

I always have a bracelet on.

Who influenced your personal style?

My husband’s aunt Janice.

Quote to live by?

“Oh I wish I was there tonight…on Jost Van Dyke…” –Kenny Chesney

What is your favorite Soft Surroundings product?

Izmir Jacket*

*Editor’s Note: The Izmir Jacket was featured in the 2012 Fall Preview catalog.

Sun protection is the single biggest thing you can do to keep your skin looking more youthful. Did you know that the sun’s UV rays can damage your skin in as little as 9 minutes? We’ll break down the numbers and jargon to help you find your perfect sunscreen, leaving you burn-free, pretty and protected from head to toe.

SPF By the Numbers
Dermatologists recommend an SPF of at least 15, even higher for fairer skins. But what does that even mean? SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, is an indicator for how long a sunscreen will filter the sun’s damaging UVB rays, which cause sunburns, but not UVA rays, which are more closely linked to tanning and deeper skin damage. For example, an SPF of 15 will protect your skin 15 times longer against sun reddening UVB rays than skin left unprotected. For this number to have meaning, it’s important to know how quickly your skin can redden. The fairest skin can burn in as little as 9 minutes when left unprotected on high UV days. Plus, an SPF of 15 will only filter 93% of UVB rays; an SPF of 50 will filter 98%. The reality is if you’re getting any sun color, your skin is being damaged.

Screening Your Sun Protection Choices
So how do you get the best protection? The key here is that both UVA and UVB rays damage your skin, increase your risk of skin cancer and add years to your appearance with the development of age spots and wrinkles. Even previous sun damage and age spots that were reversed (through either youth-restoring products or procedures) will reappear if you don’t take proper sun precautions in the future. So while a UVB-filtering, higher SPF is important, your best choice is really a broad spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVB and UVA rays. Heavier, more hydrating creams are better for drier skin. The new brush-on mineral powder formulas are ideal for more oily skin, leaving a subtle, skin-balancing tint. More sensitive skins may do better with physical sunblock formulas that contain Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide to block UVA and UVB rays. Spray formulas make it easier to reach hard to reach spots like your back. If you plan on swimming or it’s a particularly steamy day, a water-resistant variety is a better choice. Choosing the right sunscreen is crucial to keeping your skin looking healthy, burn-free and more youthful. And just like UV rays can damage your skin, it can also take a toll on your hair. Look for a good leave-in conditioner with sunscreen to moisturize your strands, add shine and keep your glorious color from fading.

SPF Makeup & Moisturizers
Many of today’s moisturizers, foundations & lip balms offer a little sun protection. It’s important to remember you may need additional sunscreen if the SPF is low. An SPF of 15 won’t be enough if you have fair skin, so you’ll want to layer a higher SPF sunscreen under your makeup. A formula specially created for the face is recommended to avoid breakouts and clogged pores.

Know Your Risks
People with fairer skin and lighter hair, especially redheads, are more sensitive to the sun. But even those with olive or darker skin and hair can be susceptible to the sun’s burning, damaging rays, too. Some medications and anti-aging treatments can also make you more prone to sun damage. UVA rays can even penetrate glass, like your car’s windows, especially the driver’s side, which is why we often see more age spots, sun damage and cancers on the left side of the body. Tanning beds deliver as much as 12 times the UVA radiation (the deep-tissue, photoaging kind) as the sun.

The Facts of Shelf Life
Just like makeup expires, so does sunscreen. And left in the heat in a beach bag, a sunscreen will degrade even further, exposing you to possible sun damage. So check your brand for expiration dates. For products without an expiration date, a standard rule of thumb is that a sunscreen’s shelf life is no more than three years, provided it hasn’t been exposed to high temperatures.

The Application Process
Sun protection is really a year-round concern, but we tend to think of it more as the weather heats up. But it’s important to keep in mind that you can get sun damage even on cold and cloudy days. For the best defense, apply sunscreen at home, a full half an hour before going out into the sun. One ounce (two tablespoons) is a good amount for creams and lotions. Don’t forget your scalp. If you’re not wearing a stylish wide-brimmed hat to protect your head, don’t forget to dab a little sunscreen along your part. Or even better, mineral powder formulas brush on for easy head-to-toe application and leave hair grease-free. The vital piece of the sunscreen puzzle is to remember to reapply. You should refresh your sunscreen at least every two hours, more frequently if you’re swimming or perspiring. It’s recommended that you reapply as soon as you get out of the water. Be sure not to miss your lips, ears, shoulders and feet. With proper application (and reapplication) you’ll keep your skin fresh, more youthful and damage-free this spring and summer!

There’s no color that captures spring like green. The most abundant hue in nature, green is symbolic of lush renewal. Sparkling and radiant, it captures a sense of liveliness, well-being, and balance.

Pantone, a global leader in color trends, has named “Emerald Green” Color of the Year for 2013. The biggest designers on the runway to the smallest artisan boutiques are showing green in every delectable, delightful shade from intense jewel tones to cool mint tones in easy silhouettes that encompass the mood of the season.

Shades of green combine well with white and other neutral hues like natural, linen, and nude, as well as rosy tones of peach and pink – and of course denim in both dark and light washes. You can also introduce the color into your wardrobe with stripes or a simple pattern.

If you don’t want to commit to green in your garments, opt for a pop of color. Green accessories abound this season from earrings to scarves to bags and shoes.

If you have a lighter complexion, go for shades of soft jade and sea glass, if you have a darker complexion, you can deepen your shades to pine and olive. Red and auburn hair is a fantastic backdrop for a wide array of greens, and if your hair is silver or ashy-toned, cool-based greens look best. No matter what your skin or hair color, jewel-toned greens look marvelously elegant on everyone.

Great color compliments all skin tones – don’t be afraid to wear it! You’ll feel brighter and happier, reflecting the fresh and fabulous new season.

“Each day of our lives we make memory deposits into the memory banks of our children.“

What three words best describe your style?

Casual, classic, colorful.

My idea of a perfect day is. . . ?

Walking along the beach, sunny sky, gentle waves…and my camera, ready to record whatever catches my eye.

Who has most inspired your fashion sense?

No one in particular. I have always watched trends, then adapted them to my style.

What one fashion rule do you always abide by?

Never leave the house without earrings and lipstick. Hey, I’m a southern lady!

The biggest fashion faux pas (mistake) I ever made was. . .

Black fur-lined boots. Boy were they ugly!

What article of clothing is at the top of your shopping list?

Relaxed leggings.

Describe what’s in your travel beauty bag.

Good cleansing products, antioxidant and moisturizer/sunscreen, and of course, EyeWish Bioserum.

The best beauty advice I ever received was. . .

Moisturize, drink lots of water, and always wear sunscreen.

Name your signature scent.

I have two! Summer: White Daisy. Winter: Chanel No. 5.

How do you unwind?

I drink a cup of tea or coffee and read a good book.

Where is your favorite place to travel?

Any place with a good beach…the Caribbean Islands, the Atlantic coast (especially Crescent Beach, near St. Augustine).

Do you have a passion project or hobby?

Painting and photography.

Describe the most memorable gift you’ve ever received.

When I was 13, my brother gave me his acoustic guitar…complete with new strings. He sent me on a treasure hunt to find it. I still remember the joy I felt that day…almost 45 years ago.

How has your style evolved over the years?

From fads, to fashion, to classics. Now, I love soft, flowing comfortable clothing…with pops of color!

I never leave the house without. . .

Earrings

Quote to live by?

“Each day of our lives we make memory deposits into the memory banks of our children.”

What is your favorite Soft Surroundings product?

Torija Topper

We say, “Yes!” This prime timesaver sheds multiple steps off your beauty routine, combining the perks of moisturizer, foundation and sunscreen… and even more… all in a one-step cream. Come see why it’s all the rage with fashionable women around the globe.

Just What Is a BB Cream?
The busy woman’s beauty lifesaver, BB creams are the simple, one-step solution to beautiful, glowing skin. Moisturize, repair, conceal, makeup and go… BB Creams make it possible to effortlessly do it all, even on time-crunched days. First conceived by a German dermatologist to hydrate his patients’ skin after laser treatments, the BB Cream, or blemish balm, became a beauty sensation in Asia and has now morphed into an all-purpose beauty balm in America. BB Creams not only cover and conceal to create a flawless, dewy face, they also work double-time to turn back the clock with youth-revitalizing properties that actually rejuvenate your skin, all while you go about your day.

Picking the Right BB Cream for You
Just like each person’s skin has very different needs, each BB Cream addresses different skin types and challenges. So how do you choose the right one for you? For luminous skin, choose a lightly-pigmented variety with light-reflecting agents like Mica for a soft, dewy finish. To cover age spots, look for a BB with heavier coverage and skin-brightening agents like Soy, Licorice and Arbutin to fade discoloration and even out skintone. To minimize wrinkles and pores, try a BB Cream with anti-aging components like peptides and antioxidants such as fruit extracts and Vitamins A, E and C to treat fine lines. For deeper hydration for your dry skin, pick a BB with moisturizing agents like Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin and Sunflower Seed Oil. Sensitive skin would benefit from a fragrance-free BB with soothing Aloe to calm the skin. Most BB Creams contain sunscreen, a crucial ingredient to keeping your skin looking more youthful. Because they typically contain a physical sunblock like Zinc Oxide or Titanium Oxide, BB Creams are often more water resistant, giving you longer-wearing radiance.

You Wear It Well
BB Creams are heavier than a standard tinted moisturizer and do so much more than the old standard bearer. The BB Cream is an ideal one-step skin perfecter that can be worn solo for lighter coverage. Worn under your foundation to better conceal dark spots, your BB creates the perfect template for flawless makeup application. A wonderful primer, your BB will keep your makeup in place all day long, an absolute blessing for oily skin needing a little shine control. For a more sheer, dewy glow that’s naturally pretty for daytime, try blending in a drop of your favorite moisturizer with your BB. A little extra hydration will make applying your BB Cream easier on drier skin. For the most flawless coverage, blend your BB cream on dark circles and spots first, then let set. Next, apply BB cream to your entire face. Only a pea-sized amount is needed. Dot your forehead, nose, chin and cheeks so your color isn’t concentrated in one spot. Blend lightly with your ring finger being careful to not tug on your skin. A light dusting of powder will keep your beautiful new face looking fresh throughout the day!