frames. they’re just a set of frames on a wall. so what is it about great design that stirs something inside of us?

whether an amazing interior, a fashion collection or a brand, how can simply arranging various elements—be it objects, furniture, words or images—turn ordinary things into visceral experiences, candy for the eyes, inspiration for our lives.

sure there’s beauty. but more than that, it’s the possibility. seeing things differently. making connections, and often, random associations. expressing a vision that is truly unique.

people often think that either “you’ve got it or you don’t.” but it’s important to remember that it’s not just pure artistry….but also a process. of defining your ethos—at the core, what you stand for. of collecting artifacts that you’re drawn to. of piecing them together to express a cohesive point of view. of making the exterior reflect your interior.

designers use moodboards as an essential tool in the creative process. rather than a literal representation, they serve as a centering point, capturing—well, the mood—the tone, color, texture, the feeling of the experience they are striving to create.

here are some fantastic examples:

kelly wearstler, who designed the interior of the viceroy hotel (picture above), started a blog called mylifemyvibe, devoted to offering a glimpse into her process and the "vibe trays" she creates for inspiration.

michael kors moodboard for vogue from his fall 2010 collection.

narciso rodgriguez fall 2010 inspiration

donna karan black cashmere perfume, inspired by the black pebbles at her hamptons home.

the lesson: inspiration can come from anywhere. it’s just about opening yourself up to it. finding it in unexpected places, time periods, objects, people. you don't have to be a designer to experiment. seek it out. and make it your own.