Design Dossier: Kelly Ottinger

Kelly is an interior designer and author of the popular home and lifestyle blog “Kelly Market.” She recently launched “Kelly at Home,” a custom e-design service that delivers design solutions, for any space, directly to inboxes. Below, she gives us a glimpse inside her world. 

E-design has really taken off lately. What makes it so popular? I think it makes the design process less intimidating for people that aren’t familiar with hiring a designer or decorator. For others, e-design resolves the constraints of time, budget and distance.

Every home needs… artwork. I hate hearing someone say they don’t have any art because they only like pieces they can’t afford. Buy a print or support an up-and-coming artist. Great art and high prices don’t necessarily go hand-in-hand.

My own home reflects a love for… color, pattern and collecting.

My fashion sense of style is… pretty classic. You’ll usually see me wearing either black or a big print. My weakness, when it comes to fashion, is jewelry. I absolutely love shopping for vintage jewelry and also enjoy making jewelry in my spare time.

What are your three beauty must-haves?
1. Klorane Dry Shampoo. My hair is very thick, but also very fine, so this is a lifesaver. I also love that it has no scent and comes in both powder and a spray.
2. Skinceuticals C E Ferulic. I’ve been very proactive about taking care of my skin since I was a teenager. This serum is an important part of my daily routine.
3. Korress Lip Butter. I love this because it’s moisturizing, chemical-free and has the perfect amount of color.

My fashion icon is… Diana Vreeland. Her passion for fashion and life is contagious.

Anyone’s work you’re admiring at the moment? I first met the Parker Kennedey team about a year ago and have been in love them ever since. They’ve got great taste and I’m absolutely thrilled to see them in this year’s Inspiration House for the Cathedral Antiques Show. I think we’ll be seeing a lot more of them in the future.

What advice would you offer beginner bloggers? I think the wisdom of “write what you know” can be said about blogging. It’s a day-in/day-out activity, therefore, you need to be not only knowledgeable about what you blog about, but be passionate about it, too.

What’s next for you in 2013? I’m really looking forward to attending my first fashion week this month.

{The “10 under 40” Presenting Sponsor for 2013 is AmericasMart}