With summer comes much to look forward to; a mojito  (or two) by the pool, a hike in the cool woods, amazing sunsets. But for me, another highlight every August is the NY gift show, recently renamed NY Now. Of course, I’m only one of the over 35,000 designers, buyers or lifestyle editors roaming up and down the aisles of over 2800 exhibitors at the Javits Center, but that only adds to the excitement.

Each show, I can’t wait to see what’s new from my favorite vendors, what’s trending color and style wise,  and even more importantly, to simply get inspired by all the displays that are so creatively put together by the design world.

This, I can only imagine, is to an interior designer, what Fashion Week must be to a fashion designer! One difference is that walking shoes, more than stylish shoes,

 are a must as you are literally walking for miles and miles while being completely absorbed in all there is to see in every aisle.

As you may know, Pantone’s Color of the Year for 2013 is Emerald Green, and while it had a very strong presence at the High Point Furniture Market as shown below, it was not as visible at the NY show.

Highpoint Furniture Show

Highpoint Furniture Show

Highpoint Furniture Show

What did have a noticeable presence at NY NOW were actual minerals…some emeralds for sure, but also many other gems and crystals to use as accessory and accent pieces.

As for other colors seen, I loved Indigo Blue displayed by Two’s Company.

and thought it interesting they included background info on the color…

Julian Chichester and Mr Brown highlighted vintagey blue lamps, along with other blue accents, that worked surprisingly well amongst a colorful array of other interesting pieces.

And while speaking about color, blackboards were, or still are, popular..many with words of wisdom painted right on them.  That same matte chalkboard black was very visible for mirror frames, globes and backgrounds as wall displays, giving a  bit of a vintage vibe.

Getting back to emeralds and crystals, many other nature inspired themes abound. Roost has both sides of the organic theme covered in both the rock crystals and plant life, especially succulents.

Metals were also popular, and we just couldn’t help ourselves from ordering some beautiful copper pots and trays for the shop.

Two’s Company had another twist on all things from nature, as I thought their black and white animal display was quite captivating, 

while at another booth, I loved these hide ottomans and I was reminded once again just how much we like to bring the animal kingdom into our homes.

Of course, for the animal lover that prefers not to use an actual hide, French Market had these wonderful benches.

Bliss’s booth is always a heart stopper as not only do they have beautiful pieces but they always do such a nice job with their displays.

I love a display that tells a story and draws you in, as  Juliska’s  display made me wish I was invited to THEIR dinner table,

I know it would be magical.