First reported on back in September, scales have been layered in fashion designs to lend us a protective coat. Interestingly, this summer’s scales are more artistic, tactile and unexpected. These Sirene rose gold and diamond cuffs by Pomellato remind us of the ocean’s creatures: oysters, koi fish and mermaids. Keeping within the family of metallics, this hotel lobby wall at 41 North in Newport, Rhode Island uses scales to emit a chaotic and energetic mood. Be it directional or collage-like, these shimmery patterns are proving influential, and we’re excited to see how this layering technique will continue to evolve as summer unravels.

Guest Coverage by Elizabeth Sigal of Frost Yourself.

Scales represent the outer most layer of our skin and are therefore a significant part of our daily lives. Until we start aging, require additional protection, are injured, or are simply inspired by various layering techniques, most of us spend our time thinking about other things. Today we’re tying this theme together across several platforms in an effort to follow a visual timeline. This scale armor vest was a necessity during wartime as protection against bludgeoning. It appears as though Iceberg, a well-known fashion label has pulled inspiration from this exposed layering technique for their fall09 collection. Replacing traditional fish scales with shiny records, this graffiti collage from the Wooster Collective reveals pop culture at it’s finest, mixing things up.

After spending the week moseying around Fire Island and absorbing 4th of July festivities, we found it only fit to provide a brief wrap up of quirky, inspirational, red, white and blue imagery that speaks to the patriotic side of patterns.  Be it indifferent hipsters styled in caricature body-builder gear, Budweiser’s subtle marketing displays, or this uniquely camouflaged fish, all hints of the American flag are welcome when it comes to ushering in summer, sand and barbecue.

Additional contributions by: Emily Gup

A few weeks ago, our dear friend Judy Prays requested pointed guidance on flooring solutions.  Having just left Brooklyn for LA, she had an endless to-do list, and getting her apartment in order was one check in need of web aggregation.  Scroll through our list of colorful solutions, as options range from custom to DIY.

Birds + Fish:

The Fish Rug by Eva Zeisal at The Rug Company, Bird Scallop Printed Rug at Urban Outfitters and the Flock Rug at CB2.

Florals:

The Como Collection at Funky Rugs, Calvin Klein Floral Loom at Funky Rugs, and the Blosson Tree Rug at Urban Outfitters.

Earthy:

Forest Floor Rug at Angela Adams, Gold Leaves Rug at Spacify and Branches Rug at Spacify.

Puzzles:

Puzzle Perser by Katrin Sonnleitner, [...]