People ask me all the time what is the difference between a mood board, an inspiration board, or a presentation board.
The terms are used interchangeably, but a presentation board is the one that you would show to a client.
A mood/inspiration board might be used only in house as you brainstorm design ideas. The presentation board shows the client the actual materials/furniture you plan to buy for the space.
I prefer to do these boards the old-fashioned way (I like to touch and feel everything) but with clients who live overseas or travel a lot, a digital board is the way to go.
I finally bit the bullet and bought Photoshop. Of course I was on a killer deadline for a project and had to turn around my boards pretty quickly.
Did I mention that I had never used Photoshop before? It was straight up drama trying to get these boards done. Fortunately, I have talented friends like Nicolee Drake who are also patient teachers.
Mood boards are very popular with interior designers, fashion designers, and graphic artists.
I love what interior designer Nathan Turner says about the Picasso inspiration in the short clip below. It’s for Pottery Barn and Nathan breaks down the process in a way that’s fun and accessible.
If you’re in L.A. check out his store on Melrose. It’s filled with beautiful things.
I hope you have an inspiring weekend.
Arlene Gibbs Décor 
My coworkers start their mood boards four months before a collection. It’s always so fascinating what images and details translate into the clothes they put on the runway a few months later. There is an office joke that at least one image of Mick Jagger is always on the board!
I completely understand why Mick (especially circa 70’s) is such an inspiration to designers. He had that effortless sexy/cool thing going on, as did Bianca.
I love reading about and seeing how a collection goes from the mood board to the runaway.
I’m very excited about the colors we saw for S/S 13. Cannot wait for winter to be over. Basta!