In the Margins
Visual notes, references, and recent obsessions
This post might be too long for email, open it in your browser or the Substack app for the best reading experience.
I know… adding another column to the mix. But I’m all about organization going into 2026. So with that, welcome to In The Margins! A collection of what’s inspiring me lately — in design, music, interiors, and everything in between.
Think of this as the grown-up older sister to an older column of mine, This Season’s Musings.
A VALENTINE FROM ME TO YOU
Valentine’s day was over the weekend and I’m not sure why, but I’ve been obsessed with all things pink and red lately (and this is very uncommon for me). I’d love to find a way to incorporate this into a project soon… kind of wishing I would’ve designed my own Valentine’s Day cards or thrown an elaborate Galentine’s craft night. But alas, those will be added on my wishlist for next year.
I pulled together a collection of the pinks and reds I’ve been into lately — basically any shade of red paired with a blush, ballet pink. Such a pretty color that pairs well with almost anything… a very delicate neutral.
RECENT HAPPENINGS
On top of design work, I’ve been diving into more UGC (user-generated content) work, and that has been so fulfilling in a different way. I’ve always loved photography, and getting creative with styling, props, and storytelling has been a really fun venture for me. I’d love to do even more and continue flexing that art direction muscle.
Doing all of the styling, modeling, and photography (with help from one of my best friends, who also loves photography) for the shoots has me really missing my film camera… I’m ready to pick it back up again.
FUTURE HOME MUSINGS
I’m not very close to purchasing my own home, but a girl can dream. I’ve found daydreaming about my future space to be inspiring — and just fun. Bringing together a mix of old vintage pieces with new modern hardware. Vintage pieces with a modern twist. And I, of course, want to start building my own collection of art.
This powder room design by Tamsin Johnson made me swoooon. So simple yet you can tell that every detail is intentional and dainty.
LOVE FOR LETTERS
I came across this vintage swan letter rack and I’m obsessed. Maybe it’s the swan (and my recent adoration for them), or the spiral coil that holds the letters… I can’t think of a better place to put mail until I sort through it. And sometimes that can be a while.
I haven’t been as active with it recently, but I have a few pen pals that live all over the world, and I really enjoy getting to connect with people in that way. There is something so nice about having to wait weeks — and even a couple months at times — for a response. I love taking the time to slow down and handwrite my replies, knowing that I can’t change it if I mess something up. I love the sense of permanence that comes along with it.
It’s also a fun way to play around with stickers, cutting up paper, scribbling with crayons, and creating the way I used to when I was a kid. It makes me happy every time I take the time to do it.
ANALOG DESIGN GOODNESS
I read a piece on It’s Nice That a few days ago about Cat Duncan’s design work for Athene club in London, and I am obsessed with the visuals. I love the combination of analogue and digital throughout. The one below is my personal favorite but I highly recommend giving the article a read and admiring the beautiful work (and learn a lesson or two about persistence).
ON REPEAT
I’ve listened to Sam Fender for years now, but not as consistently as other artists… until now. I can’t get enough of this album. “Nostalgia’s Lie” and “People Watching” are my favorites, but this is definitely a no-skip album. In fact, I’ve been listening to it on repeat while putting this post together. So good. It’s definitely helping me get into a flow state.
RECENT SAVES
I post a lot of my saves on Notes, but I wanted to curate some of my recent favorites right here. I spend a lot of time on Pinterest and Are.na, and I’ve been a big fan of reposting things on Instagram — so narrowing this down was tough.
From Pinterest — I love this “Lily” fold napkin setting on a table… want to try this myself.
Vintage quilted satin blanket, similar to those by Palmer Comfortables. I really wish I could find the creator of this one.
Stockings by Eska Marsh — gorgeous and playful.
Bad Bunny 2026 Super Bowl performance shot by Matthew Johnson.
Maria Bason vintage breakfast table — we need more everyday elegance like this.
Norbert Schoener vintage Prada ad.
The Value of Design by Kyla Arsadjaja.
Brand work by Seana Bailey of Lady B Creative.
Shot by Luiza Grzywacz.
These are the things that have been on my mind recently, and I hope something sparks for you as you read along…
THANK YOU FOR BEING HERE!!!
Until next time,
Bailey
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And if you’d like to work together on a creative project in 2026, feel free to email me at bailey@staticcatstudio.com