COTE DE TEXAS: A Closet to End All Closets!

A Closet to End All Closets!

 

I hope you all had a great Christmas and New Years!    It always seems to go by too fast especially after all the hard work and preparations.  As you know, we spent the holidays with Ben’s family – at his brother’s ranch in Chappell Hill, Texas.  His wife Shannon is a wonderful decorator as is her mother.  Her father is a portrait artist, so a good eye runs in the family.  When Shannon and Kirk first bought the ranch, the house was nice enough, but after a few years, they completely renovated it from the floor to the ceilings – adding all new windows and extra footage.  They put in a totally new kitchen, master bathroom, and a large mudroom, along with an office for Shannon and extra space in the living room.   Shannon loves the rustic Texana Ranch look, along with a heavy influence from the south of the border,  Mexico, – and a touch of French antiques.  She loves bright colors and organized clutter.  The change in their house was phenomenal.  What was once a typical ranchburger became a showplace of casual sophistication.  

This year there were two new additions to the KW Ranch.  One was the Casita, which started out as a small shed with an enclosed room and a garage to be born again as a two bedroom guest house that could be on the cover of any design magazine.  The second addition was a new closet for Shannon.    Now, it’s not just any closet – the space could be mistaken for a boutique.  I might even say that many boutiques aren’t even as cute as her closet!    It’s a dream – a fantasy of dazzling colors and textures, a monument to cowboy boots and designer purses, a jewelry store hidden among furs and Mexican dresses.

The first time I walked into the “Closet”  - my jaw dropped.   I was stunned by it all:  her collections of bracelets and bags and shoes was amazing.  Where had it all been stored before this closet?   The former closet was a very long, extremely narrow space that you had to turn sideways to walk to its end.   It was impossible to find anything in and I didn’t blame Shannon for wanting a new closet.   Now that it’s all complete, I can’t imagine how she managed all these years without it. 

So, without further ado….here is Shannon’s new closet.  Enjoy!!!

 

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To enter the closet, you first pass this short hallway in the master bedroom.  Past here is the master bathroom – which connects to the new closet.  On this antique chest, Shannon keeps a collection of perfume bottles with sterling silver tops. 

 

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Eagle eyes may remember this bathroom – I showed it on the blog after the first renovation.  When you enter the bathroom – your eye is led out the casement windows to the side yard.   The closet is through a door to the right of the tub – and to the left is Kirk’s side of the bathroom and the shower stall.  The large bathroom is made up of two distinct areas – one feminine and one masculine. 

 

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Upon entering the bathroom, Shannon’s sink is on the direct right.  It’s a painted bowl inset into an antique bombe chest topped with an aged piece of marble.

 

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And to the immediate left of the door, across from the sink are these two cases that act as the bathroom’s closet. 

 

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Looking back to the entrance to the bathroom.  Of course, I took these during Christmas, so all the decorations are still up.  This tree is silvery with turquoise accents that mimic the color of the bath’s turquoise ceiling.

 

 

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Here you can see where Kirk’s side connects to Shannon’s side.

 

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To the left of Shannon’s tub is Kirk’s side of the bathroom, with its wood vanity and two copper sinks.   The shower stall is to its right.

 

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A close up of Kirk’s sink with its Mexican pottery accessories.

 

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The shower can fit several people or more in it.  The floor tiles found throughout the house continue up the shower walls.  They are mixed with colorful Mexican styled tiles.  The towels are all monogrammed with the KW Ranch brand. 

 

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Even though the ranch is in Texas A&M University country, the UT Longhorns are represented in the corner tiles.

 

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Here, you can see the vaulted ceiling with the warm turquoise paint. 

 

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This large plaster relief hangs on the left side of Shannon’s tub.

 

 

 

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While a set of shelves are on the right.

 

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Outside the windows, Shannon placed this sculpture in the garden. 

 

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Just to the right of the tub, this small vestibule leads to the closet.  The double doors have carved glass knobs while the turquoise ceiling has a crystal chandelier.   For the past several years, while planning the closet,  Shannon has been collecting architectural elements for it.

 

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This is the first glimpse of the closet when you walk in.   The ceiling is vaulted like the bathroom and is also painted turquoise.  The floor tiles are the same found throughout the house. 

 

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To the right behind the chair is the ceiling to floor shoe rack.

 

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Two gray painted chests back to back make up the island that separates the two sides of the closet. On the right, there is a vanity table. At the end of each aisle is a tall window. Hanging from the ceiling is a festive chandelier made up of different colored crystals.

 

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There are three hanging clothes bays – left, center, and right.  The two chests are filled with jewelry, fine and costume.

 

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In front of the chests is a red leather bench.

 

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Two tapestry pillows rest against the chests.

 

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And resting on the bench is a tequila bar – by Jan Barboglio.   Last summer Shannon and friends actually had a tequila party in her closet!!

 

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On the left side of the closet is her collection of cowboy boots.

 

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The boots reach from the floor to the ceiling.  Amazing!!!  Notice her beautiful turquoise concho belt hanging from the cowboy hat.

 

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On the left side of the closet, the chest has glass doors with red flower knobs.

 

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Baskets are lined up for storage on the left side. 

 

 

 

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On top of the back to back chests are a collection of Catrina dolls from San Miguel, Mexico.  These skeleton dolls are used in the Day of the Dead celebrations on November 1 –2, or as it is known here – All Saints Day.   The skeleton image is very popular in Mexican art.

 

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Close of the Catrina pottery which fits in so well with Shannon’s rustic Texan/Mexican design theme. 

 

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The mirror also depicts a Catrina doll.  Notice the collection of vintage Louis Vuitton luggage on top of the clothing bay.

 

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Shannon collects the metal roses – here one is used in this green cross.

 

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Costume bracelets and turquoise are held in authentic Mexican clay dishes.

 

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Looking back towards the front from the left side.  You can see the glass fronted chest and the turquoise painted mirror.  Of course there’s a flat screen TV here!

 

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Close up of the mirror that perfectly matches the ceiling and the turquoise jewelry.  The door to the right leads out to the bathroom.

 

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Quila, one of their five springers (and litter sister to our Georgie) is watching over her namesake – the tequila bar.  

 

 

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Everything in the closet is perfectly organized.  Even the shoes are organized by name brand.

 

 

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All her Tory Burch shoes are stored together.

 

 

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Of course if Quila is here, so is Lucy!!!

 

 

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While Shannon found the two back to back chests in a store, she had her carpenters make this chest.  The red rose knobs match those on the chests. 

 

 

 

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Her “better” purses are stored here – just like you would find in a boutique.

 

 

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Next to the built in chest is the right side aisle with its vanity.

 

 

 

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While the left side chest has glass front doors, the right side chest is left open for easy access.  All her costume  jewelry is stored in hot pink boxes she found at Target.  The pink really pops with the turquoise and reds.

 

 

 

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Closeup of Shannon’s costume jewelry.   She has more turquoise that anyone I have ever known!

 

 

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Every little piece is stored separately. 

 

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Atop the right chest – more bracelets and necklaces.  Notice the mirror and lamp. 

 

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Donna Cummins, innkeeper of the Southern Rose Ranch bought the mirror for Shannon’s Christmas gift this year.  It matches the closet so well!   Look at those bracelets!!!!   Shannon NEVER EVER throws anything away.   She’s been accumulating this collection for 30 years now – she just turned 50. 

 

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Turquoise and white ring tray.  I’ll take this home, thank you very much!!!

 

 

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A close up look of her beaded necklaces and more bracelets. 

 

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Across from the center chests is the vanity desk flanked by crystal sconces.  More purses hang from hooks placed throughout the closet.

 

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Atop this bay is her collection of LL Bean bags.  Whenever we go to the beach together, we have so many of these bags – thanks to her gifting us a different bag each Christmas.  Once we counted them and between us we had over 20 LL Bean bags that all said Webb. 

 

 

 

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I hope you enjoyed visiting Shannon’s Boutique, I mean, her closet!  When we decided to take pictures, her friend, Tikaa Cone, helped clean it up to get it ready for the photoshoot. Tikaa is from nearby Brenham and writes a cute blog called Green Acres HERE.  Tikaa told me I should come photograph her closet too.  So, the next day, we drove to her house to check it out.

 

 

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Tikaa also totally outgrew her small closet a few years ago, but she had no room to built a new space.  Instead she took the needed space from her bedroom.

 

 

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She created an entirely new closet by moving the wall several feet out into her bedroom.   Her bedroom is still quite spacious, so it must have been huge before the new closet was built. 

 

 

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Tikaa and  Shannon are very similar, with similar tastes.  They are both “organized hoarders” as they call themselves.  Nothing gets thrown away.  I am the opposite.  If I haven’t worn it in two seasons – it’s gone.   Here is her closet – it’s long and narrow.  She is very girly girly – so she painted it a warm pink.   The left wall is all hanging space, while the right wall is all open shelving to house her purses, shoes and jewelry collections. 

 

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Instead of shoes, the vinyl sections hold all her bracelets.  Whoa.  I really need some new bracelets!  I don’t have hardly any and these two girls have thousands of them.

 

 

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On the ceiling she put in a contemporary light fixture.

 

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Like Shannon, Tikaa’s closet is very organized.

 

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Jewelry boxes and trays and baskets hold her different pieces.

 

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She owns more Louis Vuitton purses than anyone I know.   I should have taken one or two – she would never have missed them!   (Another thing I need – I don’t own even one!!!)

 

 

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Baskets neatly hold her shoes separated by brand.  Here are her Bernardo sandals.  (Another thing I need!)

 

 

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This is her silver sparkly sandal collection.

 

 

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And, like Shannon, she has a large Tory Burch collection.  (OK, I see a theme here – another thing I don’t have one of!!!  I am SOOO deprived!)

 

 

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Her purses are organized by style – here are her straw bags.

 

 

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And, at the end of the closet is a small chest where she rests her Ipad.   Notice her Catrina head on her mirror, just like Shannon.  YES!  I don’t have a Catrina head anywhere either!!!!

 

 

 

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 My closet is such a disaster.  Seeing these two closets made me want to redo mine.  I want a chandelier and seagrass carpet in mine.  I would love to have those Ikea closets with the doors that close up and keep your things dust free.  But just the thought of emptying out my closet and starting over makes me rethink that proposal.   Plus, I am not like Shannon or Tikaa.  I don’t like to hoard, I like to purge and replace!! 

 

 

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Ok – here is my disaster of a closet!  Clothes really aren’t my thing.  I’ve said this before, but in the summer I wear white linen and in the winter I wear black wool.  That’s pretty much it.   Here you can see my white linen shirts with just two or three colored ones thrown in. 

 

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Even my everyday sweats are color coordinated – white for the summer and black for the winter.   So boring!

 

 

 

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The only color or pattern I wear is with my scarves and wraps.  It’s funny how fashion changes.  I used to wear a bandana around my neck – every day.   Then, I went through a phase where I wore a vest – every day.  For a few years I wore either red or blue and white striped tees with white shorts in the summer.  I don’t wear shorts anymore – ever.  Another phase I went through was Talbot’s Irish linen suits – in all different colors and cuts.  Today, I mostly shop online only and wear Eileen Fisher.  Clothes just aren’t my thing – which is why I probably don’t really care what my closet looks like – though Shannon is determined to help me redecorate mine.  We’ll see!!

 

 

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A special thanks to Shannon and Tikaa for sharing their closets today.  Be sure to visit Tikaa’s blog HERE to read about this Catrina gourd that was hand painted by a friend of Shannon’s for her Christmas this year!   It’s a really interesting story.

Next up is the story of the Casita renovation.   It’s so cute – I can’t wait to show you it!!!!

Again, a Happy and Healthy New Years to All!

 

199 comments :

  1. I feel like I just went behind the scenes with Rachel Zoe! Those two closets are chock full of fun, bling and color. Just love it!

    And that bathroom.....what I would give for an afternoon in there.

    Here's to a very Happy New Year, Joni....and lots of inspiration from you.

    xo Elizabeth

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  3. eriously? I want to go shopping in her closet, please tell me her hours:) WOW, I havent' seen a collection of costume jewelry to rival that even in some of my favorite local boutiques! Amazing and so eclectic, fun and charming..she must spend hours in there!!
    And love the bathroom, so decadent and elegant and luxurious, especially loved her marble top, sink, and all the accessories around it...so pretty!!
    Thank you both for sharing this beautiful home. What a fun treat.
    Joni, thanks for always giving us so much inspirational beauty to look at and wishing you both all of lifes best in 2012!

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  4. I love the playful feel of her closet....like playing dress up.
    What a great to start each morning!

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  5. Wow, Shannon's closet is like a playroom for grown up girls. I love the playful colors.

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  6. Well Joni, I hope that you bought the poor girl some jewelry, shoes, or clothes, lol!
    This home is amazing. Have never seem so many patterns and colors work so well together.
    Thank you for sharing this gorgeous closet, and have a Happy New Year.
    Teresa
    xoxo

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  7. Hello Joni!

    It's so true... everything went by so fast! The best thing for me was the birth of my son... what a gift we got!

    Just want to wish you a very happy and healthy 2012!!!

    Gorgeous and dreamy post!

    xo

    Luciane at HomeBunch.com

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  8. Joni, I like your streamlined wardrobe, it makes getting dressed SO much easier and that is your 'signature style.' Also, I am like you, I like to purge stuff, hoarding is NEVER attractive and do people really need multiples of one thing?? I don't. Also, I will say this, I think the Vuitton bags are the ugliest!! They may be trendy, but, my God, they are hideous!! Happy Organizing!!

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  9. Holy cow Shannon's closet is amazing! Took me 30 minutes just to study everything. Our master bedroom is basically one big walk in closet due to no closet space in our old home, ugh.

    Although I have major closet envy right now, this was such a fun post- thanks Joni and happy new year!
    Tricia

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  10. WOW!!!!!!! I would have to be injected with a horse tranquilizer before I would let anyone see my closet!Love all the color, jewelry, boots, shoes, baskets etc. LOVE! Maybe a New Years Resolution for me????? Happy Happy New Year and hope to see you soon.

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  11. What FUN! I have seen tons of custom closets, but none with as much personality and playfulness as Shannon's. Really, your closet can set the tone for your whole day. Digging around in a dark, dingy mess, unable to find the matching shoe to the pair you really wanted to wear, grabbing a different pair of pants so you can wear the shoes that you can find -- who is going to have a good day if that's how it starts? Both of the closets you've featured look like really fun places to get ready for whatever the day holds in store.

    Also -- Shannon's tub setup is almost exactly like what I have in my own master bath, I even have a similar chandelier there. I've been looking for a chair to put by the tub, and I love her slipcovered slipper chair and garden seat. Now I'm feeling inspired again... :-)

    Happy New Year!

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  12. No offense, but what excess! I mean how many flip flops do you really need.

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  13. Wow! What can I say. What is cool is that Shannon s closet is so personalized and fun! I swear I have never seen so many bracelets even in a shop! Ha!

    Joni, Happy New Years to you and yours! Please come and enter my Giveaway from Serena & Lily.

    xoxo
    Karena

    Art by Karena

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  14. I just thought...what in the world can you possibly buy them for the holidays?!

    xoxo
    Karena

    Art by Karena

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  15. Those two closets are spectacular....I have never seen anything like it....really! Like you I am really not into clothes but if I had a closet like one of those two I might be. Of course then I would need someone to dress me too! LOL I'd better stick to home decor....
    Happy New Year!
    ~Des

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  16. I have looked and looked at these pictures and am going to bookmark to look some more. I love her collections! I'm sure there will be people who feel the need to post negative comments on this, but I have no idea why it bothers them what these women choose to spend their own money on! Plus it is obvious these collections were built up over time, it's not like she ran out and bought out a few stores in one day! Thank you for posting these pictures, now I need to go back and drool over some cowboy boots and turquoise lol!

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  17. Thanks Joni, what a fun post! I really felt as if I were with you girls on the closet tour!. Your sister in law and here friend were so very kind to let you share their private spaces with all of us. Many thanks to Shannon and Tikaa.

    Happy New Year!

    Cheers,

    Pam Kelley

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  18. Love the Catrina dolls! Thanks, Shannon and Tikaa for sharing. So many ideas, so much inspiration! xoxo

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  19. Some people are artist, you are a designer and Shannon is an artist when it comes to her dress. Clothes and jewelry are her medium. I love when people express themselves in their clothing. She has plenty to work with, that is for sure, even the way she displays it is colorful and artistic. I must admit I have never seen so much jewelry, shoes and bags in one closet. Thank you for allowing us a peek into Shannons world and a Happy new Year to YOU!! xo Kathysue

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  20. Oh, this was so much fun! I'm kind of like you, white linen and black, but I LOVE scarves and bracelets. The jewelry was fabulous! What a collection. Both closets are so unique. Thanks so much for sharing!

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  21. thanks Joni, it was a great having you over.
    Tikaa
    www.greenacresbrenham.blogspot.com

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  22. oh....my.....gosh!! Wowzer! I'm kicking myself for purging now.....so very fun!!

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  23. I am gonna do my closet this year, it is so disorganize, so I was pumped to see this post! Of course this is only a dream that I could ever have a closet like Shannons...but it was a thrill looking through it!

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  24. Cute post, Joni! What a fun and colorful way to start a new year of your blog! And to those few who are complaining of excess: Some people really enjoy being surrounded by lots of "stuff" and if it makes them happy, so what? I am inspired to go perk up my closet after reading this.

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  25. What fun closets! Great post and thanks for the tour!

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  26. Hi Joni!

    Happy new year to you and your sister-in-law! And thank you for another great post.

    I have very few clothes so I'm not too interested in the closet. But I'm head over heels in love with the chest of drawers, mirror and lamp in the first picture and the bombe chest with the gorgeous marble top in Shannon's bathroom! I would love to have any of them.

    Shannon's a sweetheart for giving us a peak into her bathrooms and closet!

    Thank you!

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  27. Shannon and Tikaa must be exuberant ladies in person! The colors scream of a fun individual that eats up life.

    I'm much more like you. They don't call me 'the princess of darkness' for nothing ;) Even as a kid, my favorite color was............black. The looks on the faces of adults when I'd reply was priceless. Some things never change!

    xoxo,
    Andrea

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  28. This is one of my favorite posts! These closets totally go with their owners' fun personalities. Thanks for sharing with your readers.

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  29. I had to shove my mouth closed after seeing Shannon’s’ closet it’s amazing but I did notice she’s running out of room for clothes….lol. While I have a closet almost that size mine isn’t filled up and I share with the husband. I’m like you if I haven’t worn it in two years out it goes. I wear mostly black and white clothing with very little color thrown in but that’s because of my business. I work in such an array of color that the last thing I want to see when not working is color. It was so kind of Shannon and Tikaa to share their closets with us, fun seeing.

    I hope you and your family had a wonderful New Year’s!

    Hugs!
    Debra

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  30. Wow, how very Texas, bigger and bigger and bigger.
    Gorgeous colors.
    Sue

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  31. They look like very interesting ladies! Lots of eye candy!

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  32. Wow, what wasteful excess. There are so many people lacking even the basics needed to survive. Could I suggest a sale with proceeds to benefit your favorite charity.

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  33. I have never seen anything like this before!!! Know LOTS of wealthy people , but not a one with anything to compare with this kind of "over indulgence". How can you even decide what to wear...why would anyone want or need this much??? To many people out there in desparate need of the basics to really enjoy this post. Oh well, to each his own!!! I do have to say that it was interesting....if not a total waste of your talents!!!

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  34. i love the christmas tree in the bathroom! and the towels! and Tikaa's holly hobby lunchbox!;;;

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  35. I was amazed at this post. I have always admired you and your work and your sense of style. I have never seen as much garishness in one place before!!! There is such a thing as too much and this is certainly "too much". Nice closet but stick to your ordinary style. Not trying to be rude...this is beyond comprehension!!!

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  36. Shannon and my friend Teresa were separated at birth! Her closet is so amazing as well. When Ashley got married last month, we went over to borrow some turquoise jewelry. You wouldn't believe the tooled belts, turquoise bracelets and necklaces, all stored in glass cases. A boutique! In comparison, my closet is a disaster! Everything is either black or white. It all blends and I cannot find anything because it's all black!
    But I enjoyed the closet tour and love Shannon's style. OMG, those cowboy boots! ~Delores

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  37. How fun to have a best friend with a good eye and the same preference in style. They must have an absolute blast shopping together.

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  38. LOVE...thank you Joni and ladies for sharing such lovely personal spaces! So fascinating and full of inspiration. I particularly love the Dia de los Muertos touches.

    Dare we hope for more of a tour? (hint, hint)

    Happy New Year!

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  39. Does she just sit in there and look at all of her possessions? It would take me forever to pick out a pair of boots and bracelet. It's all very lovely, but almost sinful to have so much excess...wealthy or not.

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  40. Joni thank you for sharing. I love Shannon's warm colors and I must have a tequilar bar party.

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  41. WHY??? What forever for?

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  42. OH JONI!!!! What a tremendous treat......WOW, WOW, WOW!!!!!! You're right, her closet is better than some boutiques I've been in. DREAMY!!!!! Please thank both ladies for graciously allowing you to share......and when/if they decide to have a garage sale......Give me a call. Tee hee

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  43. Creative, artistic, quirky, wonderful and I simply love it!

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  44. I must admit, I do love peeking into these private spaces...it is just fun! My now grown kids still tease me about our "night walks" - I would slowly push the stroller while peering into the houses - I could care less about what the people were doing - I was looking at their home's interior decor - God, I AM a decorating freak!

    Wow, these ladies love to shop - no doubt about that! Love the jewel box feel though and the colors.

    I am on your page with wardrobe. Black and White always works and works best. I wear so much black a friend of my son's ask him once..."Is your mom a witch?" Jeez!

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  45. Really? its tacky and excessive, who needs all this stuff, donate some of it to those who really need it esp this time of year, not my favourite post.

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  46. Absolutely beautiful!! My dream closet by far!! We carry consuela at my boutique in Cypress, she truly out does herself every year. To all the anonymous posters out there to scared to post your name, I guess it's hard to understand that some people work very hard to have beautiful things. Some of us have been collecting for years to accumulate our treasures, whether they are your style or not. I see the beauty of her Tex-eclectic style. Believe me, I'm sure they support many charities and buy things that our children sell for school and what not. It's a shame that they are being judged here after baring their most intimate of spaces.

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  47. That was serious fun... thank you for taking us all behind the scene.
    I am impressed that the closets are organized by style and type of fashion items. It is so much smarter to leave the clothing open in a bigger space so that the fabrics can breath, so that you can see all of the items {and use them more often}.

    I imagine all of you shared a glass of champagne while playing in the closets..... that would be the icing on the cake of fun.

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  48. Don't let Shannon go near your closet. I am certain that it is just fine the way it is. This closet looks like a cross between a Mexican flea market and a consignment shop. Are you really serious that you think this is magazine worthy? Seriously? It looks like a junk shop gone wild. Sorry, but you are getting desperate for design ideas and this one looks like it followed a night of one to many martinis.

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  49. Anon. 6:42, notice that none of the junk in this closet is investment buying. It is all costume jewelry junk, consignment store fashion or at best WalMart. Rather than buy quality, it all about quantity and the cheapness screams through the computer monitor. Yes, these are ugly remarks and I am sorry to say this, but Joni could not possibly believe that her readers are this ignorant and lacking in personal taste. What an insulting post and what a disservice to her sister in law who clearly needs some fashion and decorating intervention. This is a bigger joke than the old Christmas post of 2009.

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  50. I have to agree w/some of those who did not care for the spaces. I am not going to be so judgemental as to say these women shouldn't have these items. They can do whatever they want w/their hardearned money. Joni did mention that they do not get rid of their things and if most of us did the same our closets may look similar. Well, in my case only the clothes as I'm not into handbags, shoes, jewelry as much as these women.

    I guess what took my breath away and did not satisfy my senses in any way, shape or form was just seeing that amount of "stuff"....holy moly! It almost made me naseous. But, to each his/her own; obviously these women enjoy their "stuff" and as long as they aren't hurting anyone, so be it.

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  51. Thanks for this great blog Joni! It was such fun peaking into Shannon and Tikaa's closets. Tikaa is a personal friend of mine and I've had the pleasure of meeting Shannon at a bridal shower she hosted at her house for a friend of mine...and her bathroom is A-MAZING!!! I could have stayed in there forever!
    I'm so disappointed in some people's reactions. What a shame that some are judgemental without knowing these two great ladies! They are bother SUPER talented, fun, and lively women, who have hearts as big, bright, and bold as their closets!! They both do a lot for our community and are always giving of their time and talents.

    Nevertheless, I thought your blog was fantastic and I'll be a regular reader!! May you and your family have a very blessed and prosperous New Year!

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  52. Texas tacky on steroids!

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  53. The Boots! The Boots! The Boots! I've had my eye on several of those Old Gringo boots (WAY outta my price range) for some time now. If she ever passes on hand-me-downs.... love them.

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  54. What an incredible post! I can truly say I've never seen anything quite like it! It's a dream come true!! I'm dying to re-do my closet...but this makes it take on a whole new meaning! Thanks so much for sharing! And precious Lucy!!! She looks exactly like my Rosie girl!!
    Anyway, love the post and just wanted you to know I passed along the Blogger on Fire Award to you! Teresa with Splendid Sass passed it on to me today and I had to give it to 5 of my favorite bloggers! Thanks for all of your incredible posts and for the wonderful advice we all receive from them! I can only hope to one day be able to have a blog half as good as yours!
    Happy 2012!
    Carolyn Bradford
    www.mulberryheightsantiques.com
    vintagemulberry.blogspot.com

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  55. I normally enjoy your posts, Joni, but these closets are ridiculous and hideous. I have never seen such a conglomeration of excess in all my life... a sheer explosion of overdone French tackiness mixed with cheap Mexican folk art. I guess this is where the expression "an embarrassment of riches" comes from.

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  56. I concur with previous objections. I know you are excited at your relative's closet and all, but nobody, I mean nobody, needs that many accessories and shoes. Some people are lucky if they have one decent pair!!! She needs to take that trashy flashy stuff to a resale shop and donate the proceeds for people who need a pair of shoes to obtain employment. Not good timing on this article.

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  57. It's funny that people who read a high-end design blog suddenly have issues with the items in these ladies' closets.

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  58. NEED this, NEED that... ridiculous and excessive. Just think of the people who could have been helped in real and meaningful ways with the money wasted building out a CLOSET of all things! No doubt about having the freedom to enjoy the fruit or your labor, but wow...

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  59. thanks for all your kind comments! It takes a lot of courage to open your closet up to the public, that's for sure! like i said - Shannon just turned 50 and she's been collecting since she was 20 - even younger. so of course it looks like a lot of things when you don't really throw anything out!

    it sounds like some of the anons don't like the Texan Ranch/Mexican decor. that's personal. Shannon loves that style and it fits her lifestyle on the ranch. She dresses in turquoise, long skirts, and cowboy boots - but come to Round Top one year and you will see that a lot of the women around here dress just like that. It's a regional thing. No need to put our state down just because you don't personal care for that look.


    Her closet is amazing and unique. IT's a bright and happy place. Funny how anon always complains that I show too much white and seagrass - and here I show color and she STILL complains! haha!!! No pleasing her, that's for sure.

    Like Shannon said to me tonight, I buy designer purses myself - each year - but when I buy a new one, I get rid of the old one. If I kept them instead, my closet would look just the same! except in black and white and khaki.

    loved the comment from Vignette Design about how hard it is to find things in a black and white closet and I agree. It is really hard to distinguish one black sweater from another.

    Thanks again for all your kind comments. It made Shannon so happy to read them. of course, the mean, anon comments were quite hard for her to read. but that's blogging!!!

    stay tuned for the Casita. It's all soft colors - so don't worry!!! no more turquoise. i think you will love it.

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  60. Wow, those are some closets! I'd still be in the closet at the end of the day trying to decide what to wear!! Shannon's boot collection is amazing, and I'm with you... I'll take that turquoise and white ring tray!
    I can't tell you how many times I have borrowed your quote (actually I think you said you mother said it) "I don't do clothes, I do houses!" So, my closet more closely resembles yours!

    Happy New Year Joni!
    joan

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  61. Love this post....always fun to sneak a peek in to someone else's private spaces.

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  62. I am so sorry these Anon people are so unexposed wal mart doesn't carry any of the things in this closet and if your Walmart is different let me know I'm on my way. Please let me know if you have any French antiques you would like to show everybody. I'm so sorry you think mine are tacky, I'm sure you are sitting in you lazy boy while you are writing this and about my cheap Mexican folk art. You have no idea what your talking about. I personally know the artist in San Miguel . You are truly an embarrassment to Joni's blog that you even follow her, because you must not have any taste at all. Thank you to all of you that made wonderful comments. It's just a closet!

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  63. Shannon ~ It's an amazing closet!! Don't worry about the Anons. I know my stuff, and your treasures are extremely fabulous! I can't wait to get started on my closet with your inspiration, and you can bet your Old Gringos there will be Consuela and Barboglio residing in mine as well...not to mention my started collection of Gringos! LOVE your style!!

    Best
    ~B

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  64. I so wish people would follow..... if you don't have something nice to say......

    What a fun post Joni! Love, love, love Shannon's boots - I so love it when people can express their own personality. Sometimes - I am too safe. Wish I could be more like you girls!

    Happy New Year! : )

    AB

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  65. I too am not a clothes horse. Black and white for me. A touch of red now and then. Out it goes if it hasn't been worn for a while. I found looking at this wardrobe exhausting. Too, too much for this simple girl. I do love your sight and admire your excellent taste. Deidre.

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  66. My first thought is it is over the top, but you know what, everything is big and bright in my old home state. I love the dia de los muertos figures by the way. We have a ranch out here in California with the banded cows, they put a smile on our faces everytime we go out there. Lighten up haters, there is room for all kinds in this world and these ladies are not hurting anyone!

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  67. SHANNON ROCKS!!!!!

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  68. I so enjoy seeing people's personal style and not another bland IKEA closet. I am inspired to add some fun to my closet, like baskets, framed photos and lighting. I edit my wardrobe, yearly...just to see what I really have and organize...but my daughter wishes I had kept more "vintage" items. This was fun.

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  69. Joni, I loved this and sent the link to a couple of my friends. After seeing this I am inspired to do some work in my closet.

    Just a note on my personal experience with a couple of beautiful Texas women. My paternal grandmother was a Texas woman, not wealthy by any stretch of the imagination. She had her own style and quite a collection of fabulous clothes and jewelry. Her daughter also had wonderful style and collections. Some of my fondest memories are of visiting Auntie Flo and getting to play dress up with her clothing, hats, shoes and jewelry. Your post reminded me of my 1950's childhood summertime visits to Texas.

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  70. Hi Joni,
    Wow those closets do look like a boutique store. I can't imagine having that much stuff. I am more like you and like to purge out what I don't wear. I also have alot of white for summer, and denim jeans. I live in my jeans. I can either dress them up or down with the tops I choose. Being from Alberta Canada denim is a staple here. I would however love the cowboy boot collection, Beautiful!

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  71. What Anon and some of the others might not know about Shannon is her heart of giving. Joni, your next assignment might be to follow her around for a day in Washington County and see what she really does when not in her closet. I love her style and she wears all of it just beautifully. Thanks for the inspiration...going to work on my closet now.

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  72. That a\\is absolutely stunning!! It looks like a jewelry store in some parts. What a dream closet!
    Stacy

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  73. Love it ... I would wake up happy every day trying to figure out which pair of cowboy boots to wear!! As a now New Englander, I am keeping close to my Nashville roots and collect cowboy boots as well ... only I have just 4 pairs!! Thanks for sharing ... I love the color and the fun ... closets are truly such an insight to our personality ... I must go do something about mine!

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  74. Would love to know the paint company and colors used in the bathroom: the cream on the wall and the turquoise on the ceiling. Thanks!

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  75. This was a fun post Joanie. Please thank your sister in law and her friend for sharing with us. It looks like they are fun loving women who like to express themselves through their clothing and jewelry. I think that is just fine. We are all different. I'm sure they have pizzazz--which we would all like to have.

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  76. OMG!! Love the closets and bathroom! So fun...would love to get ready in there everyday. I'm a fan of Mexican folk art, and have collected little pieces over the years. However I don't have them out because they don't "go" with my current decor. Maybe I'll display them in my tiny closet. :) Thanks for sharing!

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  77. LOVE this post!!!!
    closets + jewelry trays + matching hangers + clear visibility + collections of yummy things + massive amounts of bags = happy girls

    xxx

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  78. Thanks for sharing, Joni, as you always do such a great job showing how others live in their home. I hope you have a wonderful 2012!

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  79. Whew!! My eyes, my eyes...lol Just kidding but there is a lot going on in Shannon's space. I couldn't function in it but I understand it is a reflection of her, so you go girl!! This is funny but when I saw the first few pictures it reminded me of that costume jewelry boutique over on Westheimer, Benoit, or something like that. And I love that place! Thank you Joni for a fun inspiring post. I love the idea of keeping your flip flops in baskets. Currently all my shoes stay in their original boxes - no wonder I only wear the same ones over and over - I can't see what I have!! Beth

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  80. Me thinks there is a "HGTV special" somewhere here....oh, my, those pillows!!! Awesome!!! franki

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  81. Everyone's entitled to their opinions, thats what makes life interesting, that we are all different. I thought these closets were over the top and thought about the $$ that must have gone into them.. and then thought 'gee if she ever wants to downsize her cowboy boot collection I want those brown cream ones on the ... shelf' :D I could never get dressed in there fast enough.. too much to choose from!

    The following is not a very kind response though. Not everyone who suggested this was over the top are walmart shoppin', recliner loungin losers. The saying 'two wrongs...' comes to mind:

    "I am so sorry these Anon people are so unexposed wal mart doesn't carry any of the things in this closet and if your Walmart is different let me know I'm on my way. Please let me know if you have any French antiques you would like to show everybody. I'm so sorry you think mine are tacky, I'm sure you are sitting in you lazy boy while you are writing this and about my cheap Mexican folk art. You have no idea what your talking about. I personally know the artist in San Miguel . You are truly an embarrassment to Joni's blog that you even follow her, because you must not have any taste at all. Thank you to all of you that made wonderful comments. It's just a closet!"
    Sorry but that was way more mean that any of the Anon comments.

    A
    solongfarm.blogspot.com

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  82. What a FAB space dahhling!
    ¡¡Felíz Año Nuevo!!

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  83. Dogs, shoes, hand bags, and that fabulous colored chandelier! This was so much fun. I'll venture out on the limb: nay sayers could learn to "see" rather than look and judge.

    Joni, thanks for sharing. Best to you for this New Year!

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  84. Wow! I have been hoping to get a glimpse into Shannon's house this year. Please thank her and Tikaa and let them know how much your readers appreciate their sharing their closets with us.

    I got some terrific ideas for clothing and accessory storage from this post and am inspired to go clean up my closet right now! I love the idea of making one's closet a cheerful refuge of happiness to start and finish every day!!

    Thanks, Joni, for your fabulous blog!

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  85. Joni,

    What an incredibly generous gesture to share such an intimate space! (Didn't anyone read where you said she had been collecting for 50 yrs.?)
    I, too have a wonderful dressing room & closet space (12x20), the dog and I live in there! There is a 5'dressing table, hanging clothes are behind closed doors with mirrors,a stack washer/dryer behind a door, and a pretty bench in the middle. It's really easy to convert an unused bedroom into your private space. Who says function can't be beautiful?

    P.S. Can you send me one of her Mexican dresses? I sure do miss them in the summertime!

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  86. I wasn't going to send a comment about this posting, but the reply from "Shannon" is pretty nasty. What did she think would be the responses to her dressing room? All oohs and aahs? I don't have a Lazy Boy, don't shop at Walmart, and my house is filled with antiques, art, and ceramics from all over the world because I been living mostly overseas for the last 20 years. I have nothing from Mexico though.
    That being said, I thought the rooms was pretty colorful, and forwarded the posting to my daughter who loves closets and shoes.

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  87. Joni, don't for a second pretend that every Anon comment here is from the Anon who thinks your design work is predictable (which it is). You imply your sister in law is a pack rat and that's obvious except she is a pack rat of cheap jewelry, fake handbags, consignment looking clothing and most laughable of all, Mexican art (we all want some of that don't you know). I suppose mixing French and Mexican has it's charm if you are trying to achieve mixing high and low together. This isn't about the fact that she has a lot of things (remember the stunning Betty Lou Phillips closet and dressing room), it's about the fact that she has so much cheap stuff and thinks that exposing it on your blog will somehow give it importance. Some have indicated that the excess is offensive when there is so much need in our society. I highly doubt that many people would want this junk and perhaps no where except Texas could someone pawn it off.

    The idea of featuring closet make overs is a good one and I hope that you reach out to your readers who may have done so to send in their pictures. I have no doubt that you will get some great ones and they won't look like the local Mexican market place minus tacos or WalMart celebrating Cinco de Mayo.

    Shannon, seriously no one is jealous of your Mexican art. Most of us would not be inclined to hang it in our home. Oddly enough, the last post Joni did that came close to being this tacky was also photographed in your house. No, we are not sitting in Lazy Boy recliners, nor do we have ill fitting tan slips on our sofas. Some of us actually do "get out" and that's what makes this gaudy post so surprising because we thought Joni did also. I hope she takes my challenge because I am certain there are some knock out closets out in blogland from which we could learn some positive storage and design elements. Yours isn't one of them.

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  88. Her closet is unique and her own personal space. The boots are too gorgeous & very pricey -- for those who haven't purchased a pair, they are cannot be bought at Wal-Mart. The turquoise jewelry is also an investment and Shannon has some beautiful pieces that can be handed down to her daughter. If you live in Texas, this style is seen in both the city and the country, either occasionally or on a regular basis. Kudos to the closet owners for they have found a hobby that reflects their own interests and hurts no one. I read the Green Acres blog and she shared that Shannon had one bag from her mother from the 1940's. So, yes, she is a saver, not a purger. It has some great ideas and she should celebrate her individuality.

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  89. When this opened up I was just amazed and I knew the anon haters were already sharpening their vile to spew.

    I used to be a clothes person and now I am not. I wish you could see my closet. We are in the middle of total house mess and my closet is various metro shelves in different rooms including the basement. Getting dressed in the morning is a workout—add in trying to remember where I put what—and the brain gets a work out too.

    Love the cowboy boots the best and but most of all I love Shannon's great love for life and Texas. And that's saying a lot since it's coming from a U of Oklahoma grad!

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  90. I love that bathroom! It is beautiful. Thanks to Shannon and Tikaa for sharing their most intimate spaces that they have put so much work into. I just wish they had not had to endure these tacky posts.

    Joni, you are the best! Reading your posts and seeing the accompanying pictures have given me so much pleasure, and been so helpful in helping me make design decisions for my own home. I can't wait to see what you have in store for us for 2012. Hope you and your family have a wonderful new year!!
    Jan

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  91. I'm with Kathysue,
    what an amazing canvas of creativity and color...
    I spend copious amounts of $$$ on paints, canvas, brushes, easels not to mention the space in my house this all takes up...no one thinks it's over the top or excessive-though they may think my art is tacky..lol..is one creative outlet really different from the other? to each their own and by the Grace of God, go I..
    and as a fellow collector, it's fun to see others "collections" even if they are different from what I collect..
    thanks for the tour, I am inspired to add a few more fun things to my closet such as frames, art, and even a Christmas tree to my bath when the season comes around again!
    best,
    maureen

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  92. I always wonder why the nasty comments are posted "Anonymously". If you want to make a comment, good or bad, have the courage to include at least your first name.
    I work for a local newspaper that gets a lot of comments - some really bad. We won't print the "anon" comments. Have some courage and stand behind your comment !

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  93. Patricia darling, the reason Anons post anonymously is because they don't have "blogger accounts" and don't apparently want one. So, if they sign their names, do you really know who they are - doubtful. I will oblige you. My name is Ainsley. Does that satisfy you?

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  94. Joni, The closets are unique and amazing, I would love to go shopping in either one. These ladies have shown such creativity and passion in a normally boring space. I love the closets but I must say the bathroom took my breath away...gorgeous!!
    Hugs,
    Sherry

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  95. I always learn from whatever Joni posts. Shannon is allowed to have whatever type of closet she wants. I don't get the negative comments at all either. It's always interesting to see how others live and how their closets look.

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  96. Ainsley is a little bitter, you don't have to have a google account. You just check off your name, the real reason anons don't sign there name is usually because they are saying something ugly and they don't have the guts to sign their name.

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  97. Joni - you continue to give each of us a special treat when you post a new blog. I love them all - and was totally entertained and charmed by Shannon's closet. Bravo, girl! My sister, who lives in Brenham, has a similar style and taste and it's so refreshing we're not all alike. And I was tickled to see your comment about Eileen Fisher. I started wearing her basics several years ago and love them simplicity and quality of her clothing (and minimal decisions about packing to travel). You are right - add a few colorful accessories and you always look nice. I got lots of compliments New Year's Eve on my outfit and it was no doubt LAST year's outfit with a new jacket! Thank you for starting the year with the sheer entertainment you ended last year with. Love your work!

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  98. You have GOT to be kidding me.....and I don't mean that in a good way.

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  99. WOW, that is a lot of stuff. I'm not a saver either. When I was 21 my mother,who had an entire house full of stuff, decided to move out of state. My sister bought her house. Little did we know she would just take a few things and leave the rest....she even left clothes in the dryer haha. I think that explains my just chuck it attitude. In case something happens one day I don't want my kids saying....What the heck!!!! Like we did haha.

    Kathy

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  100. Wow that closet is amazing! I want to move in and steal her boots, bags, and jewls!!!

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  101. WOW, thank you for ALL the comments about our closets. the good and the bad. That being said, I never would have thought a post on our closets would bring out the kind of negativity it did. Thinking about it now and seeing the comments, I'd do it again.

    To Anons "Ainsley" relax it's a closet...our closet. What does it matter at the end of the day.

    Tikaa
    greenacresbrenham.blogspot.com

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  102. To each his own. Thanks for the peak inside their homes+gracious of them to allow your pictures to be taken. Greetings from S. CA. xxpeggybraswelldesign.com

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  103. Tikaa, we assumed this was a design blog. Neither yours nor Shannon's rises to the level of what could have been posted here from other sources. You are right, it is just a closet and to each his own. Most people don't want their dressing area to look like they shop in pawn shops, however. Closets also don't have to be nor need to be out of AD either. I have seen any number of closets in homes that are nicer than the rooms where people greet their guests. It's hard to determine in this case which is better or worse, the closet or living room.

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  104. Thank you Shannon for letting us peak into your GORGEOUS and FUN closet! WOW....what an inspiration to me...Can't wait to start tearing into my basic builder one and putting a little more personality and beauty into it! Don't relish the work UGHH but the results can be amazing! JUST BEAUTIFUL and FULL OF PERSONALITY! LOVE IT ALL!!!

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  105. My my -- all this over a couple of closets.

    Wouldn't the world be a bore if we were all just alike? That's why Baskin-Robbins sells 32 flavors!

    I was wondering if the person who gifted the little mirror with all the colored stones on the jewelry chest would know if that is a one-off or it is available?

    ETS

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  106. Scrolled down so I could wish you a Happy New Year...

    Got a glimpse of some real pretty things, going back now to take my time...

    All the best Joni, loved your comment over at for love of a house :)

    Kathy :)

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  107. Just took the tour...loved their closets.......so organized WOW, I noticed the LV right off, I have a black one that hubby gave me, not my fave but don't tell him :)

    All the best,
    Kathy :)

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  108. well, i see the christmas 2009 commentor is back - and, please, don't deny it. when you mentioned the tan slipcovers - you blew your anon status here. you were obsessed with shannon's sips back then and obviously still are. i'm sure you are the ONLY here that remembers her tan slipcovers.

    ok - my thoughts. this is a closet, yes. but if you knew shannon, you would know that nothing is "just a" - of course she would use the opportunity to stage her closet! and that is what it really is. a stage. I know she doesn't wear all those boots. but she likes to look at the collection - and that is what they are. i might even guess that some were given to her by friends to fill out all the shelves. it's a stage people. she doesn't wear all those bracelets. they are a collection. just like the vintage luggage. she doesn't use it - it's a visual prop. when she travels, she takes her L.L. bean bags.

    some people like to display collections of lladro or baccarat. shannon's closet is her own personal collection. period. someone mentioned her mother gave her something - yes, i would guess that some of the bracelets, etc. came from her mother or her sister. nothing is just thrown away in their family. the tory burch shoes? there's a tb outlet store by chappell hill. junk?

    i really hate defending myself or shannon. it's a closet, yes, but it's also a personal playground for her. and yes, it is beautiful, rather you like bright colors or not. you all know that I'm not a bright color decorator, but I still can see and appreciate the beauty and fun of the closet. it's amazing. she has a great imagination. that she designed this entire room from scratch by herself just amazes me. imagine if it was painted white or light gray - with the tops of the chests bare - save for a few shells or antique books, etc, with a lantern and seagrass area rugs. it would still be just as beautiful, because the space is so wonderful. The vaulted ceiling, the three clothing bays, the windows - the wonderful bones are all there, despite the decor and Shannon designed it herself.

    shannon has a larger than life personality. she is the warmest, most giving person. her house is always open to everyone. it just kills me that a few want to judge her because she likes to collect bracelets! If you only knew how hard we have all worked over these years... anyway. whatever.

    i like to show different things sometimes. i can't only show my style over and over again. could i have a catrina in my home? no - the colors are too bright and I don't collect Mexicana, but i LOVE shannon's style - it's just her.

    anon, while you are so busy judging shannon - think for a moment that you have kept all the costume jewelry you ever bought for the past 30 years. you might be surprised how it all adds up. and I'm sorry you don't see the fun in it all. her closet IS fun. it's bright and happy and it makes you smile when you walk into it. it's unique, just like shannon.

    like i said, for shannon - every surface is a stage to act upon. where you might see a chic minimalist table top, she sees an opportunity to fill it up with accessories. To shannon - more is better. she's not a minimalist. at all. about anything. your comments hurt her.

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  109. Joni, I haven't blown any cover. Do you not recall several comments over the past several weeks asking you to do a repeat of your family Christmas at the ranch and how easy it was for many to go back and read the post - some even commenting on the same. Now take off your Detective Webb costume from Dragnet and realize that most of us know how to use your search engine. Having researched the post, it would not be difficult to see the tan sofa and the garish decor and excess. There were lots of comments regarding both. Now get that big chip off your shoulder and show your readers something truly interesting and not the shopaholic taste of your sister in law. You call this a collection? It looks like street vendor merchandise to most of us.
    Ainsley

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  110. Ya'll have to take a step back and ask yourself, if your feelings are hurt or whatever, why you care.

    I go back to this quote [below] from Oprah many times in my life, particularly since starting a very unpopular, not ever commented on blog [I guess I need to review some closets!] when I often wonder what that lack of success says about me [the answer: NOTHING!].

    This was during Oprahs imfamous Beef trial:

    'The louder he [prosecutor] yelled, the calmer I became. I got very still inside and said to myself 'that is not who I am'. In that moment, the answer I had been waiting for revealed itself. I realized whether you're on trial or going through a trial... the trial stands outside of you... trying to tell you who you are....
    No one else defines your life. Only you do.'

    Why you take offense [and it IS a choice] at what any of these anon. posters comment, whether you have no history with them or you do [and in that particular instance moreso, really], why are you *choosing* to take offense?
    If they want to portray the ladies who designed these closets as hoarders, people with bad taste or whatever... why do you care, particularly when you know it's not true or accurate? Let the Anons. rant. Tell us about some of the good works these ladies do, and let the Anons rant.

    Put on your hiking boots, take the high road and let them take the low road.

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  111. I do not have a blog, but sure enjoy reading them. I recently discovered this one, and I am so surprised at the level of meanness of some of Joni's commenters. I guess one must develop a tough skin when you put yourself "out there." It seems to me, though, that some of the negative comments hit below the belt. And they seem very "personal." I am sad that Joni, Shannon, and Tikaa have felt the need to explain or defend themselves. I loved seeing these closets, and think these girls must be lots of fun! The Anonymous? Judgmental people tend to not be at peace.

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  112. Even if something is not to your taste you can learn something. If you don't like Shannon's closet then so the hell what? Keep it to yourself!

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  113. Thanks Late Bloomers for saying so elegantly what I was thinking. And so much better.

    Joni, Shannon and Tikaa Thank you to all three of you for opening your closet doors. It's fun to see the personality, the exuberance and color, or not.

    I'm quite certain each of these women is about a lot more in life than her closet. A lot of good, generous things!

    To everyone - a Very Happy New Year
    ~Pat

    P.S. I'm anon until I figure out how to log in to my google account without a "not found" error message. Look for me then as bluehwy. At least I think that's how I'll turn up

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  114. Don't you love a "tell"? Tan slip covers indeed!

    The more hilarious thought is that the IP addresses are registered and can be matched over and over again as the same silly person posts.

    Love these closets - love the spirit. Keep it coming!

    Viva Originality!

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  115. Wow.. absolutely incredible, just like being in the Ali Baba cave, they should definitely turn their closets into boutiques, I am ready to fly in from Montreal and shop there, amazing.
    Thank you so much for a great visit. Happy New year to you, much Joy and Happiness and for us a thousand posts from you.

    decogirlmontreal

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  116. I have a serious case of closet envy right now!!!!!!!!!! Holy maceral! I thought I had too much jewelry! Wow, this is amazing! I currently have my clothes in 4 cloests, BUT am purging and reorganizing because our daughter and SIL are moving in with us while their new house is built! I will then be envying HER closet: it will be 10 by 20 feet!!!!!!!!!!! It is fabulous!!! My dream.............Happy new year, Joni and thanks for always sharing wonderful images. XO, Pinky

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  117. AINSLEY NEEDS TO GET A LIFE SHE SPENDS TOO MUCH TIME IN THE PAWN SHOP OR WITH THE STREET VENDORS, MOST OF COTE DE TEXAS' READERS DONT EVEN KNOW WHAT A PAWN SHOP LOOKS LIKE!! SHE IS CLEARLY PREACHING TO THE WRONG GROUP OF READERS. GO BACK TO YOUR LAZY BOY AND LEAVE THIS BLOG ALONE.

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  118. Your blog is really interesting and beautiful, I follow him for a long time already!
    Happy New Year!

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  119. Amen Brother!!!! This mean spirited Ainsley person is nothing but a person that was not taught how to express her anger or difference of opinion in a polite and thoughtful way. Often times these people don't have many friends because of their tongue slashing thoughts. I loved seeing Shannon's closet and enjoyed every word and picture of the blog. I do hope Shannon does not change an inch of space except to add to her collections. Joni, your blog is my favorite and is at the top of my blog folder and I start every day going to it first. Thank you for all the hard work that you do to give us this blog. You teach us so much about design and I believe that you are fair in your blogs. Keep the spirit up and stay as you are. We love you just the way you are. Judy English

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  120. THat is a very good post. It is an inspiration to me, as I begin unpacking and try to organize my closet and the rest of my house.

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  121. Anon. 2:55, if you were as clever as you think my dear you would clearly know what pawn shops and street vendors are unless you are still working on your general education requirements at the local community college you are attending.You actually may be right about one thing. Joni's readers may not know what pawn shops and street vendors are considering that they haven't recognized the similarities in this post.

    You are really hung up on that Lazy Boy concept also for some reason. I do not own a recliner, but I would bet you do since you have made quite a few references to them today. Bet you own some of that classy Mexican art as well.

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  122. your blog tag is "French design on the Texas coast". Very misleading. This is so tacky.

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  123. While I'm happy to see your SIL's closet...OMG! I don't think I could remember what all I had to wear if I had that many clothes. I'm with you, I function best with less, not more. What a great closet for her though. It was fun to have the tour.
    Karen

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  124. wow - the christmas spirit sure left a lot of you fast - if you even had any to begin with. pull in your CLAWS - !

    for christ's sake-! it's damn closet-! some of these nasty-nasty comments say so much more about the person posting them than anything else. shame on you naysayers- and you know who you are.

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  125. Shannon's very own comments about those of us who don't just LOVE her closet are equally as nasty. Insulting.

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  126. @ anonymous 5:43--hey--put a sock in it --you started it . you and your anony ilk!

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  127. Okay. I just read something on another blog that knocked my socks off, and I think it would be very appropriate to post it here in light of some of the comments being made about Joni's post. The author is Natalie Norton at the blog Making Things Happen. I really don't think she would mind being quoted. And this is as much for own my benefit as it is for some of you because I frequently fall short myself.

    Here it is:

    Today.

    Be the kind of person you want to be around.

    Protect the names of others in the same way you would hope that they would protect your own.

    Choose only to participate in conversation that uplifts, edifies and makes the world a better place.

    Consciously turn down the volume on negative influences in your life. Stop willingly giving them power over you.

    Focus on ways you can contribute to the world in lasting and meaningful ways.

    Concentrate on your unique gifts and talents and how you can use them to make real waves for good.

    Forgive with your whole heart, even as you would seek forgiveness for your own mistakes. You need never be poisoned by the feelings of hate and revenge that come from an unforgiving heart and mind.

    Love. Love yourself. Love others. Completely and without ulterior motive, fear or judgment.

    Today.

    Natalie Norton

    Link:
    http://mth2011.tumblr.com/post/3768202055/today-be-the-kind-of-person-you-want-to-be

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  128. Joni, I cannot for the life of me imagine what spurs the meanness-factor in some of your commentors. While it isn't my style, I adore seeing women filled with so much artistic style. I have a friend in Austin who is a well-known artist and author, and her entire home resembles this closet. I love to visit just for the experience that is outside my box. The beauty of being female is that we can get away with any style with panache when we want to. How boring if you always stuck with posting the same things over and over (and anons would complain about that, too).

    As a fourth-generation Texan, I adore the various bigger-than-life personalities we have our lovely state, as well as the classy ladies who quietly live under the radar doing good works.

    Enjoy it for what it is! It isn't being forced on you, for cryin' out loud.

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  129. Gail W:
    Thank you for the link to Natalie's blog! She seems like a very talented, positive person whose blog is worth following!!

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  130. Joni, quit taking pictures like this...it makes the rest of us want to slit our wrists. The closet is like going into a very eclectic boutique & it's charming & girly girly. I understand you take on the black and white though, that's kinda my style now that I really know my style (which is always elegant, always sleek & without a lot of color). This is a fabulous post, but I want to see more of YOU!! Sending love, fellow Houstonian-girl...

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  131. Oh Wow,I have never seen so much goodness in a closet, and I am GREEN with envy. I love everything about each one. I only wish I could have been at Shannon's Tequila party in her's. What fun....Loved this post!

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  132. French Design on the Texas Coast should be changed to:

    French Design is Everything We Import from South of the Border and call it French or

    Viva La Hacienda!! or

    Did My Sister-In-Law Get A Lazy Boy Recliner for Christmas? Waldo couldn't find it among the junk in the closet.

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  133. OK OK OK - THAT last comment was hysterical! so funny.

    no one got a lazy boy for Christmas in this family except for my parents. actually they bought two from Baker for their bedroom and they are the kind that don't look like recliners. my dad loves those kind of chairs and being almost 90 - my mom wants to make him happy. ok?

    anway - enough now. shannon has been glued to the computer comment section for two days now and needs to get on owith her life. I knew this would stir up the two famous anon bloggers - t least one has a name now - though I think that Ainsley is a man, no?

    back to real life now. it was fun for a while. i still wish i had a large closet so i could see what i own. oh- something else - shannon told me today that if you really look at her clothes, they are mostly black and white too. go figure. i never thought about that - but she brings color to her wardrobe with bracelets and sweaters and accessories.

    i'm working on a new post so we can all move on from this one!!

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  134. I love the selections and photos you featured here. What a way to start the new year. Looking forward to more of your postings this year. I'm a big fan.

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  135. WHERE IS GAY HOOKER WHEN YOU NEED HIM?

    HE WOULD BE ALL OVER THIS CLOSET BEFORE AND AFTER OR IS IT AFTER AND BEFORE. OH, I AM SO CONFUSED.

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  136. I love the closet and bathroom and am green with envy. What I cannot understand are those who talk about "cheap Mexican things". I collect Mexican folk art and jewelry and it is NOT cheap. Perhaps the naysayers need a lesson in good manners as well as a higher degree of sophistication.

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  137. Would be interested to know how many of the anon posts came from the same address.
    Teresa

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  138. I love all the bright colors, boots, jewelry and especially the turquoise and silver. And the Patron bar is fab too.
    Don't let the haters get you down Joni. This Texas girl loves ya!

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  139. Joni and all,

    My thoughts on this post and the subsequent comments are all over the place. First, a thank you to the ladies for opening their closets to us! Joni presented as it is . . . colorful, fun, over-the-top, and jaw-dropping! Whether or not it is to everyone's taste is not the point. She knew that most of us would be delighted to peak inside these closets!

    I do have mixed emotions when I see SO very much . . . but at the same, if she has not purged and is 50, then certainly seems more understandable. That and the TB outlet nearby! (I'm jealous.)

    I've said it before, and I'll say it again . . . Why Joni, oh why, do you answer these (few) super-rude anons? Ignore, or better yet, delete. If someone politely, or even directly, says "don't like it", no problem. It is a blog, after all, and people should feel free to state their opinions. But my goodness, the few rude, mean-spirited anons . . . ignore or delete! (I vote for delete, as in the case of this post, it gets many of us off-topic.)

    As I said some months ago, you are too well-regarded and have come too far in your career to get into this kind of back and forth with certain posters. It is not becoming of someone of your position. From now on, please take the high road.

    As always, you put SO much time into your posts - - thank you!

    Jennifer

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  140. Ok. The design really is fantastic. But those baby blue cowboy boots??? *swoon* I did a blog on display cabinets tonight, but now I just want to do one on baby blue cowboy boots...I may have to may a quick jump over to zappos, after this.

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  141. I love the joy mangano hangers. They take up less room in the closet, I was able to get more clothes in my closet that way. Does anybody else have closet tips?

    Karen

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  142. Oh, my goodness! I believe the post was about closets, not the personal tastes of the owners of the closets.

    I would feel blessed to have enough room in our small townhouse to have a closet with windows, shelves, lighting, storage, mirrors, display and dressing spaces all to myself.

    Our homes, including our closets, are simply a reflection of our personal style. Sadly, a sense of style doesn't seem to include good manners. How many of those who are so quick to judge would be so equally quick to open the doors of their homes, closets, refrigerators or cars to public inspection?

    Thank you Joni for the time you spend sharing with us and the posts we have to inspire us.

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  143. Sorry but this bears repeating:
    'I've said it before, and I'll say it again . . . Why Joni, oh why, do you answer these (few) super-rude anons? Ignore, or better yet, delete. If someone politely, or even directly, says "don't like it", no problem. It is a blog, after all, and people should feel free to state their opinions. But my goodness, the few rude, mean-spirited anons . . . ignore or delete! (I vote for delete, as in the case of this post, it gets many of us off-topic.)

    As I said some months ago, you are too well-regarded and have come too far in your career to get into this kind of back and forth with certain posters. It is not becoming of someone of your position. From now on, please take the high road.'

    This blog is your Business... whether you want it or not what Anon writes is meaningless, while your responses [and Shannons and Tikaas] are not. I was also insulted by Shannons post, even though I understand she was speaking out of hurt and was not directing this at me per se... it still 'ouched' since I too thought that perhaps these closets were a bit over the top and not my taste:
    'You are truly an embarrassment to Joni's blog that you even follow her, because you must not have any taste at all. '
    That is not what you, or someone who represents you [ie family] should be saying to your followers... or maybe they will go away?

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  144. now thats some closet! bright bold gorgeous and oh so much room-so NYC tiny closet envy here! I love the Patron-ready for her friends-where's my invite? WIshing you a Happy New Year, xxBarbara

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  145. thanks, Gail W. for your input. i saved the quote and will post it on my bulletin board. maybe some good will come out of all of this.
    cammie churdar

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  146. I could right into the closet, so much going on, I LOVE it all.
    I wonder why all the negative posters read your blog?
    Karen MC

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  147. The home seems beautiful but the closet is...OMG!
    I have never been that stunned looking at interior design pictures!!
    It reminds me of parisian classy/trendy small shops where it's colorful and like in a little girl dream...

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  148. Consider this: Has corporate design stores, with their mass produced goods, engulfed imagination and made us all design clones? What happened to imagination,self expression, personal creativity and panache? Hello Sister Parish and others with such 'elan. Should a staff of designers decide how one should live in their own space? Do we all want to be safe and the same? Should taste and style be corporately imposed ? Should there even be rules when it comes to self expression? What happened to uniqueness? Personally defined rooms express a genuine authenticity. Self assurance and expression offers a vitality to a space. Flair of this sort has energy.
    How many people have a Christmas tree, tequila AND a party in their closet?

    Shannon has spirit, enthusiasm and fire. Okay-the fire may be from the tequila, but never the less, what gusto! Why has her distinctive, individual, exclusive closet created such a stir? Think about what that implies depending on whether one likes or dislikes her closet . Are we over supplied with corporate American goods and style forecast?

    I love the outrage and the applause from all. Maybe people will dare to be more self expressive. I plan to be.

    One thing for certain, good manners are always in style and tasteful.

    Annetta Igou

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  149. Holy cow! To each his own, Shannon has the right to live her life and express herself freely! I cannot believe the negative comments! Some crazy ladies out there reading your blog and they all identify themselves anonymously!

    I wear neutrals like Joni and have a very streamlined wardrobe by choice but it was fun to see a completely different way of life. You can tell Shannon is colorful and fun. You two make yourselves a cocktail with the tequila and laugh it off to women being women! Why God made many of us catty is beyond me!

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  150. Forgot to mention-I really enjoyed the very beautiful collection of turquoise!

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  151. Joni, your sister-in-law and her friend are very generous to let us pick in their fabulous closets. My own is more like yours. I'm really shocked at the negative and even vicious comments I see here and on other blogs. The motto should be "If you have nothing nice to say don't say it all".
    Happy New Year to you and your family. By the way, I love your blog. Keep up the good work.

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  152. I was hurt while reading the comments as well when Shannon and Tikaas responded as they did. This is not the taste of most of your readers and you know that. It should have been expected that there would be mixed feelings about the "look".

    This is my first comment on this post. I wasn't even going to comment at all but after reading what they wrote and the anon comments defending them that sounds like them doing it or some family member I feel I have the right to speak my mind too. That is really not very tasteful looking at all. I would put some things in baskets and straighten it up and it might not seem like such a messy shock to look at. I get that it's her taste, but most people that read this blog don't have that kind of taste at ALL. Even if I saved ALL my jewelry, which I don't wear jewelry any longer, all my bags, all my shoes for another 20 years (I'm 32 now) there is no way I would have that many or that many that even looked like they could be used or worn. It is overload of "stuff". I just don't get how you can look at all that and still see straight. It is MORE than you would see in a store selling these things. She also tells us that she has no cheap items in there either, so she has spent good money on all that "stuff". Again overload. Sorry but this was my opinion and I wasn't going to say a word till I read what they already wrote. If they were brave enough to put these photos up here then they should have said thank you to all the kind comments that were left and dropped it.

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  153. Anon. 1:00, good comment.

    The fact that Joni and her sister in law, Shananeda Morblinga of Lazy B Ranch say there is no cheap stuff in this closet is the crowning touch of the comments. People with fine jewelry, meaning beautiful silver, gold, precious and semi precious stones don't flaunt it on the internet. Investments pieces can be worn and even redesigned over a lifetime of use and enjoyment. If you took any of this costume jewelry to be reworked, you would be laughed into the street. Just like the excuse was made for the tacky Christmas 2009 post "that it really was meant to be funny", this post was meant to showcase Shananeda's creativity and "bigger than life" personality. If you had the money for all of the tripe in this closet, spent over a suggested period of 30 years, you could not only have a beautiful closet with lovely cabinetry, but really fine handbags, shoes and of course jewelry. Instead, you have a redneck, hillbilly showcase of bad taste. You are so right, if your exhibitionist instincts cause you to post your closet on the internet, then man up and take the criticism along with the praise.

    In addition, knowing the artist in San Miguel doesn't make it good art. I suppose the back roads are full of artists and gourd painters in Texas.

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  154. This is Texas. We work HARD for what we have and if we want to spend our hard earned dollars on baubles and clothes. So be it. How bout this: Live and let live. And I'm sure that most of you have no idea if these women help/donate/give to others or not. You don't have to like the space. But remember, judge not, lest ye be judged.

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  155. I have found it interesting how differently these spaces have been viewed; how some would walk into either of these closets and be stymied as to what to do next. Where to begin to put together the days outfit? I would be one who would stand there for hours not knowing how to choose (I actually do have good style sense but don't think I could pull it together w/this much stimulation/choices...not meant in a snarky way!). Others would find the spaces exciting and full of inspiration, would be able to throw together a beautiful ensemble in an instant. Just an interesting observation of human nature.

    On another note, for those who refer to anon. commenters negatively, I would like to point out that some of us aren't particularly internet savvy and truly don't know how to show any other identity. I very seldom leave comments and the anon choice is the easiest. I don't even know what the other choices mean or what exactly would be shown.

    Lastly, it was very generous of S & T to allow us into their closets!! Many thanks to both of these women. Can't wait to see the casita!!!!

    Dawn

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  156. If you want others to be happy, practice compassion.
    If you want to be happy, practice compassion.

    ~Dalai Lama

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  157. Please post the casita - I can't take anymore comments about Shannon's closet!

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  158. At least we can agree on one thing. Joni's title was spot on: A Closet to End all Closets. Couldn't have said it better (or worse) depending on one's point of view.

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  159. Gosh..I was just going to put my two cents in and deleted everything I typed, because it really does not matter. Other than the ladies should not take things so personal, different strokes for different folks. Stalking the comments section for days to read the comments..well that's a little compulsive...and is the buying/hoarding.

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  160. I'll pass on the Casita renovation, if it is more of the same...time to get back to the Cote de Texas theme..please

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  161. Good and nice wallpapers. Thanks for sharing these wallpapers. You can find also more nice wallpapers on our websites.

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  162. Wow, fun closet and bathroom - and definitely not my taste. I applaud all of you who behave well on the comments stream, and feel compassion for those of you who turn to self-righteousness in your criticisms. Mostly, Joni, I am impressed with your graciousness in allowing the anonymous "haters" (Ainsley among them) to spew. My closet is painted cornflower blue inside, and my mother's has a chandelier hanging (but it's also a converted bedroom).

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  163. Kris, why is it that people like you refer to Anons as "haters". This is not about hate. It's about having an opinion on whether or not the readers here view this post as a good one and something from which to take away good ideas or is it more of a lesson in what not to do. Hate doesn't have a thing to do with this. That is the typical response of people who can't stand opposing opinions. Now go enjoy your cornflower blue closet and chandelier. Sounds like a beautiful space.

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  164. Closet is amazing & honestly, the Longhorn tiles are my favorite. Love you Texans! Have a great day.

    My closet = disaster too

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  165. wasted life --- gathering and hoarding!

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  166. Just wanted to stay that this inspired me and I have been working on my closet to make it a reflection of me and a nice place to see everyday. My flip flops look great in the new basket. I love the livin' large Texan exuberance. What a fabulous state and darling friends you have, Joni.

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  167. I think that is one of the neatest, most cheerful looking closets ever! It's almost not really a closet but an experience -- and it must be a fun one! Thanks for sharing this with us.

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  168. I enjoyed the post, think that closet is a hoot and am happy Shannon can live her life the way she wants...they have earned what they have. What I don't understand is why that one mean Anon person keeps coming back to read the comments and adding more mean comments. Who has the time? I comment and then go on with my life. I love Joni's blog and know how much time it takes her to photograph, tweak the photos and then write the blog. It takes lots of time!! Thank you Joni! Everyone has different taste and if you don't admire what you see, keep it to yourself and move on. Jeez!! Plua, if you don't live here in Texas, you might really have a hard time understanding us. But, we know who we are and that is more than good enough!

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  169. I am always so excited when I open my email and see you have posted on your blog. Once again, you have not disappointed me. What a fun fun closet. I'll bet you are both fun fun women, and are lucky to be related. Thanks for the very in-depth pictures and post. Happy New Year to you and your family...especially Shannon, who was kind enough to put her closet "out there."

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  170. I love the look on Quila's face.

    "Who the heck are you? Do I need to get up and ask you to leave?"

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  171. WOWWEE! Love it- so colorful and creative,certainly a cheerful way to wake up each day.
    ( Its just about the size of my entire newlwed NYC apartment in NYC back in 1980's!)
    LOVE Texas!
    Thanks Joni and Shannon for showcasing it.
    -linda,ny
    ps happy and healthy New Year to you all.

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  172. @anony @ 9:51 - why the hell are YOU wasting YOUR life making negative comments-? move on-!

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  173. Shell, why is it your business? The wasting and hoarding is obvious to anyone who doesn't have his/her head in the sand. Now move along, we have heard from you already today.

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  174. Aanonymous@5:13 - It's my business because I am sick of negative remarks. OK? I was wondering why you would bother wasting your precious damn time complaining about wasting and hoarding ? I've heard more than enough from YOU so please--just go away.

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  175. shell, I am not the anon who referenced "wasting and hoarding". I simply spoke up in defense of the comment because I believe that anon has as much right to speak here as you do. Stuff it!

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  176. A shine to materialism and empty consumption. I see sadness and desperation in this woman's NEED to buy, buy, buy! I live in TX and can swear that one pair of cowboy boots will do ya just fine.

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  177. Oh Lawd,I love shoes and boots, I love jewelry, I love purses, but my closet is not a shrine. The older I have gotten I much prefer 'quality', to 'quantity'. And yes there are some are high dollar items in her closet...but granted it's also one rhinestone bracelet away from being a hot mess.

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  178. oh you two pervious negative anonymous nellies - so many people on here besides me are sick to damn death of your condescending & nasty remarks. stuff it the both of you-! TO EACH HER OWN. IF YOU DON'T LIKE IT--JUST KEEP QUIET. DIDN'T YOUR PARENTS TEACH YOU ANY MANNERS ? shame on you both.

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  179. shell, you need to take two aspirin and go to bed, honey. Perhaps when you get up in the morning you will understand it's a big world and there's room enough for more than one opinion. Only some control freak like yourself would have the balls to to suggest otherwise.

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  180. I choose to be anonymous because I have been amazed at the unpleasantness and vitriol of some of the comments on both sides. I don't have a blog or a google account and have only recently begun exploring the cyber design world. Frankly I'm appalled at some of the nastiness exhibited in the comments. I have also worked very hard all my life - I don't think your sister-in-law is alone in that. That said, the dressing rooms, while not my taste, were vibrant and full of personality. I can see how they could brighten up the owner's day and give her an interesting hobby. However, I do feel uncomfortable with such excess of possessions (even though they've been accumulated over a life time). - I periodically sort through my things and donate to my church Op Shop where I also now work as a volunteer - it's fun, I enjoy seeing the sometimes wonderful things that pass through the shop and I feel real pleasure in the fact that the money (after shop costs such as rent and power)goes to benefit the needy. I sometimes feel a little guilty about enjoying beautiful things - but could never live with such profusion. Around Christmas (and during the rest of the year) we are so aware of the needy in our own countries and those in the Third World. I am very proud of my son and his family who donate a significant part of the profits from their family businesses each month to carefully chosen charities. They too could have lots of beautiful things as they work very hard and have built up two successful business from scratch. But instead they live more modestly and try to help those who can't help themelves.

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  181. Hi Joni,
    I thought this blog was fun because I am contemplating adding on a nice big closet or converting a bedroom. In fact, I have been meaning to suggest that you do a blog featuring closets. I definitely got some ideas about shelving and use of space with this one.

    These people who are posting negative remarks are taking themselves waaaayyyy too seriously and frankly are being very self righteous and judgmental. I mean, who carries around that much hatefulness inside? I feel so sorry for Shannon having to read them. Any person that truly appreciates design, decorating and fashion understands the ART of it. How boring would it be if everyone had the exact same decorating taste? It sounds like a lot of these people are stuck in one style and can't appreciate the individuality she has. Even if I've chosen a different style, I love that she has her own unique style and doesn't copy what EVERYONE else is doing. Those comments are ridiculous! Yes, she has a lot of stuff, but seriously, most people have some sort of addiction, be it to food or collections or whatever, but I have no doubt that Shannon and Kirk are very generous with their time, talent and money in many ways.

    Thanks for posting and thanks to Shannon for sharing. And how dare anyone tell you what you must or must not post. They have the freedom to ignore it. Reminds me of the family suing McDonald's because their child is fat. Walk away.

    p.s. Can you imagine walking into someone's house that collects anything and criticizing it to the owner? How offensive would that be? That's essentially what they are doing because Shannon is obviously reading this. If you can't say anything nice, bite your tongue and move on. What happened to proper manners?

    Kathy J C

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  182. I am new to this blog. I absolutely love it! Would love to see the blog you mentioned about Christmas last year. How is that possible?

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  183. Joni--Love your blog and look forward to reading each new post. The closet like any other beautiful space in a house was inspirational. I hope to rethink my much smaller closet...maybe a color on the ceiling or a beautiful light fixture. Like you, I'm a purger..the anti-hoarder, but understand the pleasure that a beautiful space and beautiful things offers. Thanks for the inspiration!!

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  184. I know you want to move on, but I just wanted to say a few things. While some of the closet may not be my style, I really enjoyed seeing it. As for those who say she should get rid of the stuff and give to the needy, her purchases have helped stimulate the economy. The people making the Mexican art and jewelry, clothing, etc., I'm sure are grateful that someone is contributing to their earnings. I love bracelets (have very few) but Shannon's are fantastic. I have small collections of other things that I'm sure people would find silly or whatever, but I love them and that is what matters. I can understand Shannon becoming defensive -- I'm sure she felt attacked. It hard not to take these comments personally. Shannon, this is what I got out of your closet: you are a colorful, fun person. Thanks for sharing.

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  185. Happy New Year Joni,
    This post came a great time for me. I am moving and taking my Programme Martin closet system with me like a turtle takes her shell. I adore seeing women take a closet and create a dressing room to suit her unique style. I would describe Shannon's closet and High Ranch Boho. I appreciate her welcoming us in to see.
    Shannon is obviously a playful soul and why shouldn't her most personal space reflect that? I plan to use very few colors in the bedroom we are converting to a closet. The clothing will provide the color credit. I am a purger and donator. I tend to buy investment clothing, bags and shoes. It never occurs to me not to wear them time and time again.
    I think the most beautiful piece in Shannon's closet is the mirror. The light fixture was wild and whimsical. Sometimes the inner child needs a play space.

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  186. Thanks for sharing these closets. The "negative Nellies" should watch Bill Cunningham New York. One of my favorite quotes of his us "See, a lot of people have taste, but they don’t have the daring to be creative." We don't all have to be the SAME. Just look and enjoy people. I would literally break out in hives if I had this much stuff, because "things" stress me out. But some people revel in their things; what is wrong with that?

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  187. Loved seeing this amazing closet. We appreciate Shannon for opening her home. I would like to know what kind of tiles are on her bathroom floors. I've been looking for something similar. Where can I find them, I live in The Woodlands. Thanks for showing so many different styles of homes!

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  188. This post was an inspiration for me to get my closet in order and to have a little fun with it.

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  189. Far too much overkill, I fear.

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  190. Oh my gosh.....a whole lot of people need to get a life. Shannon you must be wondering why you ever let anyone into your wonderful wardrobe.
    I'm sure most of us enjoyed wandering thru your boudior with a smile on our faces and wine in hand enjoying it for what it is......a superb private space where you can go to enjoy your 'treasures'. Go girl.......please don't ever regret letting us peek into your life and dont dwell on the negativity of some sad people. xx

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  191. Wow...the comment section. Christmas 2009 Part II;

    I understand those that don't like the excess, the shoe/purse/jewelry collections; I also understand those who love it because of it's color, uniqueness, and liveliness. It's okay to post that you don't care for it, or it's not your taste, but some of the posters do it in such an inappropriate manner, giving people labels such as community-college educated, or characterizing the atmosphere in the closet as a Walmart "cinco de mayo".

    When you write comments like this, you're showing hatred. I'm not a native Texan but I understand the "turquoise and boots" Texas look. It's not the only fashion in Texas so you're intentionally stereotyping all Texans by labeling it Texas tacky or no where to pawn that off except in Texas. The same goes for the cheap Mexican art comments.

    I noticed several posters said they didn't care for the closet and even criticized certain aspects without being sharp-tongued. It's called respectful criticism. And it's appropriate.

    And while the closet and it's contents are too much for my lifestyle, I didn't find it necessary to judge the owners on the way they spend their money or decorate their houses.

    Just my two cents Joni! And PS...the very best accessory in her closet is Quila!

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  192. Joni, This is a wonderful post that showcases so much personality. Also like what @Sarah wrote about appreciating your "streamlined wardrobe" and "that is your signature style.” She's right. We love that EF is part of your personal style. Thank you for that. Thank you to Shannon and Tikaa, also, for opening up their closets to the world!

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  193. This is the most fabulous thing I have ever seen! I am green with envy! I had not posted here when I first saw the closet; I ran across an email where I shared it with some friends and decided to come back and tell you how much fun we think it is. Rock on with your bad self! Love it!

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  194. Wanna bet that Shannon, the Patron Saint of Excess has added a few more pairs of boots, some bracelets picked up at the local big box store and perhaps a quick trip over the border for some more Mexican artifacts since the story was first posted. I hear she may be adding a rhinestone studded Lazy Boy for perching when deciding which pair of boots to wear.

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  195. You always share the best stuff! I'm totally addicted. I need a second job because I want EVERYTHING! ;-)

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  196. Just found this post looking for my New Year's Resolution (Fantasy Closet Friday) ~ as I am looking to shop less and admire more to save to build a new house and my own fantasy ♥ This post alone will take me through February. Some people are minimalists and some people feel more is more. I think these ladies are fabulous and would love to attend a party in Shannon's closet!

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  197. Just found this post via the White House Christmas 2014 post. I love Mexican folk art and bracelets and turquoise. Great closet. I don't actually use or wear much of my collection - I just like to look at pretty things. I think that's okay!

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  198. Hi! I ran across this post on Pinterest and fell in love with the tile. I am building a home and would absolutely love if you could share where this tile is from?! Thank you in advance!!!

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