Classic Black And White With Pops Of Color In Decor And Fashion
How do you feel about black and white decor with texture and pops of color? This popular combination never goes out of style in fashion and in decorating. We never tired of it in our home.
There’s more today like two chic black and white outfits, a good tip for buying flowers for an event and unfortunately some sad news for our family.
It’s Sunday Faves time with Annie and Cindy.
Timeless Black And White Decor
Even though these chair cushions were recently recovered in a black and white ticking stripe, we’ve had the black chairs forever. The Crate & Barrel lumbars pillows are on clearance now.
The key to keeping it fresh and clean for Spring is to use black more in accents.
1. Incorporate natural textures and patterns
Use materials like leather, stone, rattan, wicker, driftwood and jute for a Spring/summery feel.
There is more about this guest room here: Classic Relaxation In A Serene Neutral Guest Room.
Shop the Bedroom
2. Use stripes, checks, and other classic patterns in black and white
3. Add pops of color with accessories and metal finishes.
4. Keep it simple and clean
You may read more about: Six Things I Love About My Neutral Home Office.
5. Greenery Keeps Black And White Fresh
You may also like Let Me Give You An Updated SF Home Tour!
Black And White Outfit For Spring
Here’s a comfortable outfit. I’m going to take the soft, light cotton bandana with me to Vietnam in May. It can make a warm weather outfit interesting.
- J. Crew Bandana
- Black puff sleeve shirt
- White patch pocket denim trousers
- Black espadrilles similar (all the mademoiselles were wearing these when we were in France last October)
Black And White With Pops Of Color
- Flowery silk scarf (It’s beautiful…would make a great gift, too)
- Sunglasses by Freyrs
- Banana Republic Premium White Tee medium — get 40% off now if you have the card with code: BRCARDPERKS
- AYR flattering ponte ankle pants (I ordered the medium/short but still had to have them shortened a bit). My new “go-to” black pants.
- Luxe Italian leather soft suede loafers
- Long lasting lip liner and YSE Hydrating lip tint in Fashionably Late Rosy Taupe
Ordering Flowers in Bulk At Trader Joe’s
Did you know you could order flowers in bulk for an event reasonably priced? Just go into the store. That’s what Mercedes did for Mark’s party last weekend. Then, she, Sandy and I had fun arranging them in lots of small vases.
Rest In Peace Our Little Black And White Dog
Sadly, we had to put Chief down on Wednesday. He was suffering from violent seizures and in spite of heavy medicine, they kept coming with more and more frequency.
Chief was my sidekick for many years. We walked all over the steep hills of San Francisco for 9 years. He was a brave little guy…I’m sure he thought he was a much bigger dog. The last four years, he loved retirement at the beach, jumping into the surf, sitting near a fire in the fireplace, and he especially loved an airy golf cart ride.
So on his last day, he had hamburger and cheese for breakfast. We took a long, leisurely golf cart ride through the neighborhood and I carried him to the ocean so that he could put his paws in the shallow tide.
How does such a little being leave such a big hole? Please leave a comment if you have any advice for us.
Thanks for listening.
Let’s see what Annie and Cindy’s Five Faves are this week:
Cindy Hattersley Design
Most Lovely Things
Mary Ann,
I am so very sorry to hear of Chief’s passing and I’m glad you could give him a brief memorial here. His increasing seizures remind me of our first dog. We have large Costco canvas prints of all our pets in our library (media room). I also save a small box of mementos of each pet, and I placed an engraved brass name tag of our last dog in our mudroom, a gift from a dog-loving artist friend. Time heals, and light/pleasant distractions for the immediate-term…
Mary Ann, I’m sorry to hear about your dog. It is really losing a family member. For a long time after my dog Benny was put down I’d start to throw a piece of carrot down as I cooked because he would always be dancing around my feet waiting for his treat. I also had a vet come to the house. It felt to me that it was much easier on Benny and me although still tremendously hard. Feel better.
We had to put our collie down last fall, after his quality of life diminished badly with degenerative myelopathy. Our vet said the decision to do so was a selfless one on our part. We were desolated at first, but now have reached the stage of remembering his antics and loyalty with joy. I’m a pastor, and firmly believe that all creatures are reunited with God when their earthly life is over. My sincere condolences to you.
Dear Mary Ann,
You look adorable in your black and white, it’s refreshing a classic and chic.
Beautiful flowers you girls created for Mark’s birthday. Lots of love went into everything.
My heart sank when you shared that your beloved Chiefy passed to heaven. What you and Howard
did on his last day was heart felt. What WONDERFUL fur child parents you were. Chief was one lucky
guy to have you as his parents, and you were Blessed to have such a wonderful fur baby.
We talk about our fur children in Heaven and I cry when I feel like it. Talking and even shedding tears helps.
Having pictures up helps. I will share what a few friends that recently lost their dogs have in their position that friends have gifted them that seems to have brought them big comfort. A tote bag with the dog breed on the bag, looks like it came from LL Bean, and a custom made necklace with the dogs face on it. It may not be your thing, but it has helped them, especially the necklace.
You both remain in my thoughts, sending you virtual hugs. I know what this loss feels like and it’s HUGE!
I am going to order some photos…he loved posing. So I have a lot of them 🙂 I think he liked all the attention I gave him when he posed….even when I wanted him out of the shot. Your comment felt like a warm hug. Thank you.
You made Chief’s life wonderful to the very last hours. What a lucky little guy to have been loved by you.
Ohhh…thanks Karen.
Such sad news about Chief…I have enjoyed seeing him on your blog for many years. I know you will miss him and your readers will, too. May you find comfort in knowing that he had a wonderful life.
So sorry for the loss of your beloved Chief. Chief was a faithful companion and may you find comfort in the many wonderful memories xo.
Thanks, Meredyth!
We had similar medical issues with our dog George a few years ago, its a hard thing to witness. I have found, over the many pets that come and go, that the goodbye is one of the hardest passages of life. And yet, I keep signing up for the heartbreak as what they give while they are here is so enriching to my life. I hope they get as much from us as we get from them. Thanks for sharing him with us over the years. My sincere condolences.
Thanks Ava. I’m sure we will eventually get another one.
Our pets take a bit of our hearts with them when they pass over the Rainbow Bridge. I truly believe we will see them again in heaven when we get there. May God wrap His loving arms around you and your family during this hard time.
Thanks so much, Angie!!
So sorry to hear about Chief. Such a cute dog. As someone else commented, let the tears flow. He was a big part of your lives. And how brave of you to make the difficult and right decision for him. I’m praying all the wonderful memoires you have will bring you some comfort (that’s what I’m hoping for you). Big hug Maryanne.
Thank you, Rita…the tears keep coming at unexpected times.
I’m so sorry for your loss. What a beautiful little guy. (hitting send again as I did something wrong the first time.)
I’m so sorry for your loss. What a beautiful little guy.
Thank you, Dawn.
Dear Mary Ann
I am so very sorry for the loss of your precious Chief. I know he had a wonderful life with you and your family. He was a blessing to you from God and you to him. Rejoice in the time you had with him and yes let yourself cry but time will heal your pain. In time get another dog and if possible get a rescue. Sending big hugs.
I would like to have a rescue, Roberta. But not right away.
My heart aches for you. I know too well how the heart hurts losing a pet. When my precious dog passed 34yrs ago I’ve never got another dog. I felt like I was replacing her and there’s no replacing. I’ve had cats ever since. The hurt never goes away for me. She had a great life of 14yrs with me. I bought a pet coffin and buried her at my bedroom window to say good morning and goodnight everyday. Love Hurts!!! Praying for you.
Thanks for the prayers, Nancy!!
We lost our sweet Casey in the fall. So hard to say goodbye to our 4-legged babies. Take time to mourn. I made a small photo album and we wrapped his collar around his box of ashes. The box allowed us to put a photo on the outside so we keep it close by and it helps us say goodbye. One day we will get a new baby, but for now we take time to mourn.
So sorry to hear about Chief. He will remain in your heart forever, but time does heal. I think the digital frame dedicated to Chief is a great idea. I’m sure you have loads of pictures since he’s had such an exciting life. At 76, I keep saying my 10 year old dog will be our last, but I can’t imagine life without one. I just hope she stays healthy for many more years (and we do too!).
I am so sorry for your loss. I think a way to get through it is to share memories with your husband and family and to talk about Chief in a normal way. At some point, memories triumph over grief. When my son’s dog died, I invited family and friends to donate to pet care after the LA fire in his name. You could do something similar (with the ASPCA, for example) so that help is being given to other animals in Chief’s honor You can still mention him in your posts: he won’t cease to exist for you simply because he’s no longer here.
What a blessing you were in Chief’s life! And what a lucky dog to have someone able to make that difficult decision. Chief deserves every tear you shed; crying is the best way to process grief. A smart person told me our hearts can actually feel great grief at loss while simultaneously feeling joy in memories and new beginnings. Your heart will know when it’s time for another pup/dog. Best advice: a digital frame dedicated to Chief. I hope you can find peace in every picture and memory.
I love the digital frame idea, Sue!!
Godspeed, Chief. Your family adored you, and you are missed terribly. And to the family, may I say it is one of our very toughest days. As someone who has worked in dog rescue for many years, one of the most deeply touching conversation is when the sadness that bubbles up when talking about that loved pet. My advice is grief, for any living thing, varies and appears differently, but often as a rogue wave. Allow the emotion, and Chief will help you heal your heart.
God bless you, Kim for your service in dog rescue. You are right …Chief’s family adored him.
Hello Mary Ann,
I am so sorry to hear about Chief. I’ve loved reading your posts about his adventures. Years ago when our lab Willy passed I created a montage of photos of his life (like you have). I sent it to family and a few friends and as others heard about it they asked to see it We received condolences from many. It made me feel better that all these people cared so much. Take care of yourself during this time.
It’s been healing to receive comments like yours, Julie.
There are few thing harder than putting your beloved dog down. Know that you gave him a wonderful life and that he will live in your hearts forever. I am so sorry for your loss.
Thanks, Linda. I do think we gave him a good life. He was a great traveler. He should have gotten frequent flier miles!
Hi Mary Ann,
So very sorry to hear about your beautiful dog Chief. I have many pictures of our pets all over the house, especially the ones no longer with us. And I talk to them too. I would get another dog soon xo
Thanks, Francesca. Good idea about photos. I have an ink drawing that my friend, Gail drew on a bookshelf with two of his collars.
So sorry to hear of the death of your dear Chief. When we lost our dear, difficult cat years ago, I think I cried every day for six months. They are so much more than pets to us! I hope you can take some comfort in knowing you gave him the best possible life!
I’m hoping the tears become less and less, Ann!
I’m so sorry about Chief. I love that you managed his last day with all his favorites. And you were so wise and generous to know when you had to let him go. Hang in there.
It’s REALLY hard to make the decision but this wonderful vet came to the house and he licked her face. Howard thinks he knew she was going to help him.
Chiefy was loved by one and all. I never knew a little dog that could run with the big boys like Chief. I hope he and Beau are playing in doggie heaven. It is so hard to lose your best friend. The sense of loss never goes away but it gets easier. My advice is to get another dog. Steve wanted to right away but we needed a year or so.
I bet he and Beau are having the best time, Cindy!
So very sorry for the loss of your fur baby Chief. We too lost our fur baby this past August and we were both completely heartbroken. We decided to get another one as quickly as possible and were lucky to find one that is perfect for us. She has mended our hearts in ways I cant explain. We still miss Hayley and think about her often but now have little Sadie who brings us so much joy. I cant tell you to get another dog soon but I know that it helped us immensely. And there are so many dogs who are needing a loving home. Take care!
Cindy thinks we should get another dog, too, Marsha. And I’m thinking rescue this time. But with our grandkids on the West Coast, we travel too much. Perhaps when we slow down.
Time… that’s all. You have wonderful memories that cannot be taken way. I keep photos out of my pets that passed away. They provide some comfort.
I think I will order some photos today.
So sorry to hear about Chief. So beautiful how you spent his last day doing all his favorite things. It’s so difficult to lose our beloved four legged companions. When the going gets rough, visit that lovely vision of him riding his golf cart in heaven. Take care.
I do have a nice image in head, Deanna, of Chief in a golf cart, smiling.
I’m so sorry for your loss of Chief. I have no advice to give, only commiseration. I lost my cat of 16+ years on 2/11 and I miss him still everyday. I am so happy that you were able to spend a final happy day with Chief before he passed.
Dear Mary Ann,
As the tears roll down my cheeks, I remember how adorable Chief was, painting his cute portrait and the day we rushed him to the emergency vet for a bee sting. He was a bright light in your lives, loving all the places he got to live and explore and being a constant companion. I’m so very sorry, but when our pets are suffering, and though it is such a difficult decision, I think we are so lucky to have this kind option and the ability to help take away their pain. My thoughts and prayers are with you! ❤️
I just texted you a photo, Gail, of the art you did of Chief. Thanks again.
I’m so sorry for your loss. With each loss, a part of your heart goes with them. My Mia, 11 year old Havanese, passed in October. She had many medical challenges but had a good quality of life until the end. Her diet had always been limited so she was finally able to have her first taste of cheese and peanut butter on the last day. There is no cure for the ache in your heart. Time may help but their love is imprinted on your heart. That’s a gift.
Jeri,
Yes, their time with us WAS a gift. That’s a positive. Sorry for your loss of Mia.
Mary Ann, you know I love black-and-white decor. And I am so sorry for your sadness at losing Chief. What a sweet last morning with Chief! I’m thinking of you!
xx
annie
And he went so peacefully instead of with a final violent seizure, Annie.
I’m so very sorry about Chief. I loved seeing Chief in all your posts and realized how valued and loved he was to you and your family. I made the very difficult decision to put my boston Ruby down over 4 years ago and I miss her every day. I sing her name in a song around my other dog, she was still a puppy when Ruby died, and she knows who I’m talking about. The grief is real but the memories you have with Chief will always put a smile on your face and warmth in yor heart.
So very sorry for your loss. The only thing that helps seems to be time. It was months before my tears over the loss of my beloved companion turned to smiles at all of the wonderful memories. For my sister and her loss of her pet, it took much longer. Just be patient and kind to yourself, you will get there.
Thanks, Win. That is just it…they are our “companions” so it feels a little empty now. My granddaughter asked what Chief was doing in heaven and I said “he’s probably driving his own golf cart!”
I have no advice for getting over the loss of your sweet Chief, but I do know how it feels. My big dog passed away in 2021 and I still get teary when I think about him. Chief was a sweet boy, I enjoyed seeing him in your posts. I am so sorry for your loss.
Thanks, Brenda. I hope the good memories of your “big dog” bring you comfort.
Black and white is classic. Love how you use it in your bedroom and office while keeping it light and airy. Peach and blueberries … what?! I’m so making this. xo
The kitchen is awesome! Can you check the link for the espresso maker? When I try, it pulls up the kitchen… Thanks!
Thanks, Kathy!! I fixed it 🙂
Good to hear your cataract surgery went well! I’m a nervous wreck about my upcoming surgeries.
Seems it such a common surgery, and by most accounts it’s fast and easy. I sure hope so. Good luck with the second one.
The crisp looks amazing. I can’t wait to try it!
Happy 4th!
Good luck to you, Nancy!!
How funny that I am reading your post while eating my own gluten free fruit crisp made with very similar ingredients. Yum.
That’s a coincidence!!
Can you see soooo much better? Have fun with Little Louisa! I can’t believe how tidy her little kitchen looks, with a leaning picture. Summer would have knocked that down and broken it immediately. She must be so gentle. Cute outfit of the week!
It was just tidy for the photo, Cindy! But she hasn’t knocked the picture off!
Mary Ann so glad your cataract surgery went okay! It’s amazing what a difference they can make I hear. I love the blue and white with black in all these pretty pics. Your office is my favorite.
So cute Louisa’s kitchen !!! You two must have so much fun. The crumble looks delicious. May have to try it with our apricots.
Hope you have a fun week with family!
I feel like I was wearing dirty glasses before 🙂
Hi Mary Ann,
Yay, one cataract removal done, I hear you about seeing better, with bad cataracts it’s like a filmy dirty lens, cloudy. I had ocular implants put in for distance. Did your eye surgeon recommend implants to you? They are pricey, and Medicare does not cover them. When both cataract surgeries were completed I had to wait about 6 to 8 weeks before my Optometrist could see me. These are strict rules set out by Medicare. My Optometrist was so pleased with the results. The key to little scar tissue is putting in the drops for a month afterwards as your surgeon has laid out for you. I’m sure you will follow all the rules. I just wanted to take the time to explain that to you. I want you to have the best outcome too. I found my eyes are even more sensitive to light than ever. I invested into high end sunglasses with a protective lens.
Yes, love black and white it’s a classic.
Enjoy all you family, what a blessing that you are all together. The crisp looks yummy, I try to only do gluten free.
Thanks, Kathy…going to make sure I am religious with the drops!!
So happy to hear your cataract surgery went well. I’m having my first eye done on the 18th.( a little stressed about it) Which lens’s option did you decide to go with? Also which eye did you do first, the dominant or weaker? I love wearing black and/or white in the summer. Eileen linen is the best! Happy 4th!